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Lady Fan Mystery #3
The Opium Purge
A dark shadow has been brought from the West Indies to an English estate…
1790, England
Lord Francis and Lady Ottilia Fanshawe are preparing for the birth of their first child.
But Lady Fan won’t let a little thing like pregnancy get in the way of solving a local mystery.
Their neighbour – Sir Joslin Cadel – who recently returned from a sugar plantation in Barbados, has collapsed and died on his doorstep.
And his young ward, Tamasine Roy, claims to have murdered him.
With Tamasine clearly suffering from some kind of mental disorder, and the rest of Cadel’s household acting suspiciously, it is clear all is not as it seems.
Why did Sir Joslin suddenly return to England? What happened to Tamasine’s parents?
Could this seemingly angelic young woman really be a murderess…?
THE OPIUM PURGE is the third book in the Lady Fan Mystery series: historical romance murder mysteries with a courageous women sleuth embarking on a traditional British, private investigation in eighteenth-century London.
1790, England
Lord Francis and Lady Ottilia Fanshawe are preparing for the birth of their first child.
But Lady Fan won’t let a little thing like pregnancy get in the way of solving a local mystery.
Their neighbour – Sir Joslin Cadel – who recently returned from a sugar plantation in Barbados, has collapsed and died on his doorstep.
And his young ward, Tamasine Roy, claims to have murdered him.
With Tamasine clearly suffering from some kind of mental disorder, and the rest of Cadel’s household acting suspiciously, it is clear all is not as it seems.
Why did Sir Joslin suddenly return to England? What happened to Tamasine’s parents?
Could this seemingly angelic young woman really be a murderess…?
THE OPIUM PURGE is the third book in the Lady Fan Mystery series: historical romance murder mysteries with a courageous women sleuth embarking on a traditional British, private investigation in eighteenth-century London.
405 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2018
881 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Bailey
95 books304 followersAn avid reader from an early age, Elizabeth Bailey grew up in colonial Africa under unconventional parentage and with theatre in the blood. Back in England, she trod the boards until discovering her true métier as a writer in her thirties, when she fulfilled an early addiction to Georgette Heyer by launching into historical romance. Eight years and eight books later, Elizabeth joined the Harlequin Mills & Boon stable, fuelling her writing with a secondary career teaching and directing drama, and writing plays into the bargain.
With 18 historicals published, Elizabeth turned to other genres, producing two titles (Fly the Wild Echoes and For One More Tomorrow) in the cross-genre literary/paranormal field as well as a suspense novella (Silence of a Stranger). She has several short stories available too and a guide for writers on editing.
Continuing her foray into other genres, but returning to her favourite historical period, Elizabeth turned to mystery. She placed her female sleuth in the late Georgian world of intrigue, elegance, aristocrats and rogues, where privilege rubbed shoulders with the harsh realities of making ends meet. While Ottilia moves in the upper echelon of Society, she is thoroughly at ease in the lower, which allows Elizabeth to cross boundaries with impunity. These novels are now published with Sapere Books and the list continues to grow.
Sapere also publish her Brides by Chance Regency Adventures, a series dedicated to the countless women who could not ordinarily hope for romance and marriage: poor relations, dowerless females, those who did not "take", orphans. In a word, the classic Cinderella heroine.
Now retired from teaching, Elizabeth concentrates on writing and promotion, with a sideline in running an assessment critique service for writers.
With 18 historicals published, Elizabeth turned to other genres, producing two titles (Fly the Wild Echoes and For One More Tomorrow) in the cross-genre literary/paranormal field as well as a suspense novella (Silence of a Stranger). She has several short stories available too and a guide for writers on editing.
Continuing her foray into other genres, but returning to her favourite historical period, Elizabeth turned to mystery. She placed her female sleuth in the late Georgian world of intrigue, elegance, aristocrats and rogues, where privilege rubbed shoulders with the harsh realities of making ends meet. While Ottilia moves in the upper echelon of Society, she is thoroughly at ease in the lower, which allows Elizabeth to cross boundaries with impunity. These novels are now published with Sapere Books and the list continues to grow.
Sapere also publish her Brides by Chance Regency Adventures, a series dedicated to the countless women who could not ordinarily hope for romance and marriage: poor relations, dowerless females, those who did not "take", orphans. In a word, the classic Cinderella heroine.
Now retired from teaching, Elizabeth concentrates on writing and promotion, with a sideline in running an assessment critique service for writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 11, 2018
I did stick with the book, like it or not. Hysteria and extreme situations on every turn, only for Regency fans. I do believe this is the first Regency book I have read that included opium addiction as the primary focus. Since I liked the fist book in the series but did not like the second, I gave the third another chance because there are some characters I do like. Oh well.
This has madness hidden and how the worst can happen. Murder and mayhem, oh yeah.
This has madness hidden and how the worst can happen. Murder and mayhem, oh yeah.
November 1, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Sapere Books for a review copy of The Opium Purge, the third novel to feature amateur detective Ottilia “Lady Fan” Fanshawe, set in 1790.
In an interesting condition Lady Fan and her husband are visiting his family for Christmas. It is going uneventfully until a beautiful but fey young woman invites herself into the house, shortly followed by her guardian and companion. They drag her away but soon Tamasine Roy is back stating that she has killed her guardian Sir Joslin Cadel. Lady Fan suspects murder but with Tamasine obviously mentally ill and the rest of the household keeping secrets it will take some effort to get to the bottom of Sir Joslin’s death.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Opium Purge which is a real page turner with plenty of twists and turns. In fact I found myself turning the pages impatiently to see what was coming next and this is strange because Ms Bailey keeps up a breakneck speed with what seems like new revelations on every page! I guess this is the definition of an addictive read and particularly apt when laudanum plays such a large part in the narrative. Obviously, given the setting, much of the novel relies on deductive reasoning and I’m obviously not good at it as I didn’t have the faintest idea about what was going on, so just as well Lady Fan was there to do the thinking for me.
I like Lady Fan as a character as she is calm, smart and resourceful but perhaps rather modern in her attitudes for the period. I love her mother in law, Sybilla, who is bad tempered and opinionated but always fair and she gets the best lines. I found all the other female characters (and there are a few) tiresome and unconvincing.
The Opium Purge is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
In an interesting condition Lady Fan and her husband are visiting his family for Christmas. It is going uneventfully until a beautiful but fey young woman invites herself into the house, shortly followed by her guardian and companion. They drag her away but soon Tamasine Roy is back stating that she has killed her guardian Sir Joslin Cadel. Lady Fan suspects murder but with Tamasine obviously mentally ill and the rest of the household keeping secrets it will take some effort to get to the bottom of Sir Joslin’s death.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Opium Purge which is a real page turner with plenty of twists and turns. In fact I found myself turning the pages impatiently to see what was coming next and this is strange because Ms Bailey keeps up a breakneck speed with what seems like new revelations on every page! I guess this is the definition of an addictive read and particularly apt when laudanum plays such a large part in the narrative. Obviously, given the setting, much of the novel relies on deductive reasoning and I’m obviously not good at it as I didn’t have the faintest idea about what was going on, so just as well Lady Fan was there to do the thinking for me.
I like Lady Fan as a character as she is calm, smart and resourceful but perhaps rather modern in her attitudes for the period. I love her mother in law, Sybilla, who is bad tempered and opinionated but always fair and she gets the best lines. I found all the other female characters (and there are a few) tiresome and unconvincing.
The Opium Purge is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
March 19, 2020
Lady Fan Mystery Book 3...not equal
The first two books of this series were very engaging, funny, sad, and a mystery with a solution. Book 3 is not equal to them: the story is tangled, wordy without moving the story forward, planted with extraneous information and sorry to say I was bored to tear as I tried to like this saga. I just didn't care about the past and present characters. The two exceptions are the Dowager and Lady Fan, who just made the story less painful.
The first two books of this series were very engaging, funny, sad, and a mystery with a solution. Book 3 is not equal to them: the story is tangled, wordy without moving the story forward, planted with extraneous information and sorry to say I was bored to tear as I tried to like this saga. I just didn't care about the past and present characters. The two exceptions are the Dowager and Lady Fan, who just made the story less painful.
November 2, 2018
What would you do if you're visiting your family for Christmas and a young girl comes to you in distress claiming to have murdered her guardian? Lady Fan realises that the girl is mentally ill and that although the guardian has indeed been murdered, she thinks there are more secrets in that household than anyone is willing to admit.
The setting is vague - in England and in a lush country manor somewhere, but the atmosphere is one of pomp and circumstance, of frills and ladies who lunch, but in this corner, there's some serious matters to delve into such as the role of women back then and the way mental health was addressed and even alluded to.
The plot concentrates, as the title would suggest, on the effects of opium and laudanum and there's clearly been some research into this, as there's some fascinating facts and pointers woven into the plot. Amongst all this, Lady Fan is the one who plans to sort it all out and examine the whys and wherefors of this fascinating case. Not many husbands would 'allow' their wives of this time to sneeze on their ow, let alone act all detective but glad he did, as Lady Fan is a great character. She'd give the Dowager from Downton Abbey a run for her money.
It's lighthearted but a lot of fun
The setting is vague - in England and in a lush country manor somewhere, but the atmosphere is one of pomp and circumstance, of frills and ladies who lunch, but in this corner, there's some serious matters to delve into such as the role of women back then and the way mental health was addressed and even alluded to.
The plot concentrates, as the title would suggest, on the effects of opium and laudanum and there's clearly been some research into this, as there's some fascinating facts and pointers woven into the plot. Amongst all this, Lady Fan is the one who plans to sort it all out and examine the whys and wherefors of this fascinating case. Not many husbands would 'allow' their wives of this time to sneeze on their ow, let alone act all detective but glad he did, as Lady Fan is a great character. She'd give the Dowager from Downton Abbey a run for her money.
It's lighthearted but a lot of fun
March 14, 2023
Interesting story but I didn’t like how some of the characters were portrayed.
November 15, 2018
A beautiful young woman named Tamasine Ray arranges a visit with Lady Fan in an unusual manner. Tamasine is at first enchanting, but it soon becomes clear there is something a little off with her. Tamasine later returns to Dower House, the home of Lady Fan's mother-in-law, announcing she has killed her guardian. Lady Fan and her husband Lord Francis have doubts about the confession, but are determined to get to the truth behind Sir Joslin Cadel's death.
"The Opium Purge" is the third book in this series. I have read the prior two books, but it has been a while. It was easy to become reacquainted with the main characters within the first chapter or two. The book is full of strong, female characters who aren't what you would expect in England in 1790. Lady Fan is delightful. She is clever, funny, and determined, and her husband Lord Francis is patient, understanding, and doesn't get in his wife's way when she is investigating Joslin's death. His mother, Sybilla, is opinionated, outspoken, and wise and doesn't put up with nonsense from anyone. Lady Phoebe, who hopes to be Lady Fan's sister-in-law someday, is younger so not quite as outspoken, but just as strong and capable as the others and makes a meaningful contribution to the story.
Tamasine is an unusual character. She is sometimes a character to be pitied, but often someone to be feared. I was as unsure of her involvement in her guardian's death as Lady Fan. However, Lady Fan was able to put all the clues together and solve a complex mystery, while I was still in the dark until the very end. "The Opium Purge" has an intriguing plot and likable characters, but what makes this such a great book and excellent series is the heartwarming love between Lady Fan and Lord Francis. Now that I've read this book, I'm really looking forward to the next one in the series.
I received this book from NetGalley, through the courtesy of Sapere Books. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
"The Opium Purge" is the third book in this series. I have read the prior two books, but it has been a while. It was easy to become reacquainted with the main characters within the first chapter or two. The book is full of strong, female characters who aren't what you would expect in England in 1790. Lady Fan is delightful. She is clever, funny, and determined, and her husband Lord Francis is patient, understanding, and doesn't get in his wife's way when she is investigating Joslin's death. His mother, Sybilla, is opinionated, outspoken, and wise and doesn't put up with nonsense from anyone. Lady Phoebe, who hopes to be Lady Fan's sister-in-law someday, is younger so not quite as outspoken, but just as strong and capable as the others and makes a meaningful contribution to the story.
Tamasine is an unusual character. She is sometimes a character to be pitied, but often someone to be feared. I was as unsure of her involvement in her guardian's death as Lady Fan. However, Lady Fan was able to put all the clues together and solve a complex mystery, while I was still in the dark until the very end. "The Opium Purge" has an intriguing plot and likable characters, but what makes this such a great book and excellent series is the heartwarming love between Lady Fan and Lord Francis. Now that I've read this book, I'm really looking forward to the next one in the series.
I received this book from NetGalley, through the courtesy of Sapere Books. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2019
Opium was easily obtained in 1790. Elizabeth Bailey’s The Opium Purge (Lady Fan Mystery #3) is set in 1790 England. Lady ‘Fan’ is pregnant with her and Lord Francis Fanshawe first child, but when she spots an stunningly beautiful young woman twirling in the snow through her bedroom window, Lady ‘Fan’ dreams that she has seen a ‘fairy princess’, but as the story unfolds, Lady ‘Fan’ discovers how terrifyingly incorrect her first glance of this ‘fairy princess’ is! I totally enjoyed Books #1 & #2, but this installment of the series, Book #3, took too long to reach each point the author was attempting to make. Opium-eater is the term used for someone who was an opium addict during the time period of this story, and the author relates some amazing facts about this and how opium was used in the late 18th century. The reader will also feel quite deeply for some of the characters, but I definitely feel the story should have been told in a more direct fashion as I kept losing interest. I do enjoy the characters so I will read Book #4. 3.5 stars
February 29, 2020
Life in the dower house is anything but boring for Lord and Lady Fan!
Ottilia spies a lovely young woman dancing in the snow, delighting in life, so it seems! When Tamasine Roy, the young lady, then breaks a window while entering the house, we begin to see a darker aspect to this apparently light-hearted woman.
Dancing on a tightrope, the author maintains a fine balance between the darkness of insanity and the happiness and light of a new, well-matched wedded couple. Add in a mystery (or 2!) to be solved, and we are off on another adventure with the Fanshawe’s! Well researched, this book pulls back the curtain hiding the story of how families dealt with madness in a time when there were no effective medicines to combat mental illness, other than opium sedatives, and does so in a manner that holds the reader’s interest to the end. You will not soon forget this book.
Ottilia spies a lovely young woman dancing in the snow, delighting in life, so it seems! When Tamasine Roy, the young lady, then breaks a window while entering the house, we begin to see a darker aspect to this apparently light-hearted woman.
Dancing on a tightrope, the author maintains a fine balance between the darkness of insanity and the happiness and light of a new, well-matched wedded couple. Add in a mystery (or 2!) to be solved, and we are off on another adventure with the Fanshawe’s! Well researched, this book pulls back the curtain hiding the story of how families dealt with madness in a time when there were no effective medicines to combat mental illness, other than opium sedatives, and does so in a manner that holds the reader’s interest to the end. You will not soon forget this book.
January 3, 2019
With every new entry, I love this mystery series more and more...I think this may be my favorite so far.
This one centers around a beautiful, rich but mad young heiress, and the author’s handling of her manic highs, lows and violent tendencies is simply amazing! One feels sorry for her, terrified of her and irritated by her...all in the same sentence. She is surrounded mostly by those who wish to use/abuse her, but is she really an innocent herself??!
Lots of wonderfully drawn secondary characters here (not just the leads), and I’m really enjoying getting to watch our heroine’s new marriage develop!
Love, love this one! ❤️
Much thanks to #NetGalley and #SapereBooks for the ARC. The opinions are strictly my own.
This one centers around a beautiful, rich but mad young heiress, and the author’s handling of her manic highs, lows and violent tendencies is simply amazing! One feels sorry for her, terrified of her and irritated by her...all in the same sentence. She is surrounded mostly by those who wish to use/abuse her, but is she really an innocent herself??!
Lots of wonderfully drawn secondary characters here (not just the leads), and I’m really enjoying getting to watch our heroine’s new marriage develop!
Love, love this one! ❤️
Much thanks to #NetGalley and #SapereBooks for the ARC. The opinions are strictly my own.
November 4, 2018
Lady Fan does Gothic
What I love about this series is the integrity of the relationship between Ottilia and Francis. The love between them is palpable yet they have their ups and downs as they resolve each case. And it is rare to fins a situation where the hero plays second fiddle to the heroine with a mixture of pride in her brilliance and fear for her safety. Bailey always develops her ensemble characters well and the series permits us to learn more and more about them. The depiction of Tamarsine. Is brilliant, capturing her febrile state with compassion. The whole is leavened with humour and wit..
What I love about this series is the integrity of the relationship between Ottilia and Francis. The love between them is palpable yet they have their ups and downs as they resolve each case. And it is rare to fins a situation where the hero plays second fiddle to the heroine with a mixture of pride in her brilliance and fear for her safety. Bailey always develops her ensemble characters well and the series permits us to learn more and more about them. The depiction of Tamarsine. Is brilliant, capturing her febrile state with compassion. The whole is leavened with humour and wit..
December 4, 2018
I love this series and really liked this book.
It's a great historical mystery, it reminds me of the book of the Golden Age even if it's set in the Regency era.
I liked the style of writing and the well developed and realistic characters.
The mystery was great, no plot, and it kept me guessing till the end.
The book is fun to read, enganging, and entertaining. I read it as fast as could and couldn't put it down.
A great discovery, I look forward to reading other instalments in this series.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Sapere Books and Netgalley for this ARC
It's a great historical mystery, it reminds me of the book of the Golden Age even if it's set in the Regency era.
I liked the style of writing and the well developed and realistic characters.
The mystery was great, no plot, and it kept me guessing till the end.
The book is fun to read, enganging, and entertaining. I read it as fast as could and couldn't put it down.
A great discovery, I look forward to reading other instalments in this series.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Sapere Books and Netgalley for this ARC
February 7, 2019
“The cloak splashed red against the pristine snow. Arms uplifted to the heavens, bare fingers catching at fresh flakes, the girl twirled on the vanished lawn of the Dower House, her countenance alight with pleasure.”
After taking in this scene, Lady Ottilia Fanshawe feels like she has witnessed a fairy dancing in the snow. Soon after, Lady Fanshawe decides to go for a walk, but when she arrives at the front parlour, she finds her dancing fairy in the middle of the room with a bloodied hand. It becomes apparent that the young girl has broken the glass in the door to gain access to the room. From her initial interactions with the girl, Tamasine, Lady Fanshawe realizes she has some sort of mental illness. Tamasine’s guardian, Sir Joslin Cadel, and Tamasine’s companion, Lavinia, arrive soon after in search of her. They apologize for the disruption, and they take Tamasine back to their adjoining property. Not long afterwards, Tamasine is back tapping on the glass to be let in. She comes in and announces she has pushed Joslin down the steps in the garden, and that he is dead. Lady Fanshawe can’t help but investigate Sir Joslin’s death. Although she is hesitant to believe Tamasine’s version of events, she does suspect that he has been murdered.
The Opium Purge is the third book in the Lady Fan Series, and the relationship between Lord and Lady Fanshawe continues to be one of the charms of the book. Lady Fanshawe is a strong-minded, intelligent woman who is determined to seek out truths. Lord Fanshawe’s gallant efforts to protect his wife and her honor, all while giving her the space she requires to carry out her investigations, is nothing short of regal. Throughout the story, they both show their love for each other in subtle ways, often by just a touch or a gentle word.
One of the interesting aspects of the story, and one that I found humorous, is that Lady Fanshawe asserts herself into Sir Joslin’s household under no one’s authority but her own. She is accosted by members of the household staff who question her authority to be snooping through the house. She lets their objections roll off her shoulders, and continues her investigations. It’s so Lady Fan of her .
Her investigation starts with a death that was apparently caused by a fall but is eventually ruled a death by opium overdose. This is but the first twist in this intriguing tale. The house is full of secrets and Lady Fanshawe must work through each of these secrets to understand the truth behind Joslin’s death. One of the secrets is Tamasine herself. Should we love her innocence or fear her twisted thoughts? Are those that surround her there to support her or take advantage of her?
The story kept me absorbed right until the very surprising ending.
I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thanks to Net Galley and Sapere Books for an ARC of this book. #NetGalley #TheOpiumPurge
After taking in this scene, Lady Ottilia Fanshawe feels like she has witnessed a fairy dancing in the snow. Soon after, Lady Fanshawe decides to go for a walk, but when she arrives at the front parlour, she finds her dancing fairy in the middle of the room with a bloodied hand. It becomes apparent that the young girl has broken the glass in the door to gain access to the room. From her initial interactions with the girl, Tamasine, Lady Fanshawe realizes she has some sort of mental illness. Tamasine’s guardian, Sir Joslin Cadel, and Tamasine’s companion, Lavinia, arrive soon after in search of her. They apologize for the disruption, and they take Tamasine back to their adjoining property. Not long afterwards, Tamasine is back tapping on the glass to be let in. She comes in and announces she has pushed Joslin down the steps in the garden, and that he is dead. Lady Fanshawe can’t help but investigate Sir Joslin’s death. Although she is hesitant to believe Tamasine’s version of events, she does suspect that he has been murdered.
The Opium Purge is the third book in the Lady Fan Series, and the relationship between Lord and Lady Fanshawe continues to be one of the charms of the book. Lady Fanshawe is a strong-minded, intelligent woman who is determined to seek out truths. Lord Fanshawe’s gallant efforts to protect his wife and her honor, all while giving her the space she requires to carry out her investigations, is nothing short of regal. Throughout the story, they both show their love for each other in subtle ways, often by just a touch or a gentle word.
One of the interesting aspects of the story, and one that I found humorous, is that Lady Fanshawe asserts herself into Sir Joslin’s household under no one’s authority but her own. She is accosted by members of the household staff who question her authority to be snooping through the house. She lets their objections roll off her shoulders, and continues her investigations. It’s so Lady Fan of her .
Her investigation starts with a death that was apparently caused by a fall but is eventually ruled a death by opium overdose. This is but the first twist in this intriguing tale. The house is full of secrets and Lady Fanshawe must work through each of these secrets to understand the truth behind Joslin’s death. One of the secrets is Tamasine herself. Should we love her innocence or fear her twisted thoughts? Are those that surround her there to support her or take advantage of her?
The story kept me absorbed right until the very surprising ending.
I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thanks to Net Galley and Sapere Books for an ARC of this book. #NetGalley #TheOpiumPurge
December 5, 2018
One morning Lady Ottilia Fanshawe and her husband Lord Francis wake up to a winter wonderland. The garden of his mother's dowerhouse is covered with a thick layer of snow and in the snow an angelic woman is dancing. She seems to be wearing a sparkling dress and a red cape flies around her thus creating the vision of a fairytale princess. When Lady Francis runs downstairs to see who it is she discovered the child inside the house after having broken into it. The young woman is very beautiful but seems a bit strange and childlike.
Not long after that, the first dead person shows up and Lady Fan, as Ottilia is called by many, helps her husband and her brother with finding the cause of death. When that is clear she uses all her detective skills to find the killer.
The book is situated in the countryside in mostly either the Dower House of the estate of an earl, her brother-in-law, or a three story country house that is the direct neighbour. The era is the end of the 18th century but the only clue to that is a hint to the violence of the French Revolution.
Due to the links to Barbados and mad women in the attic it had a strong Jane Eyre-influence.
The use of laudanum and the effect of opium are a key element in the story. Slavery is discussed as well.
Although several deaths occur none is described in a very violent manner and there are no bedscenes to worry the prudish readers. It is a classic style detective novel.
What I noticed was the higher level of English used in the book. A lot or contemporary, now a bit archaic, words but also just words I had to look up in my Kindle Dictionary. My excuse is that English is not my native language but I can imagine some American readers complaining. I did find it making the story more believable and thought provoking.
I was very impressed and as this was book 3 I think in a series and I had not read the other ones I ordered the first one in the series immediately after. Ok I will know she will marry the lord but the who-done-it in the earlier novels is not spoiled by flashbacks in this one.
GREAT READ: 5 STARS
Not long after that, the first dead person shows up and Lady Fan, as Ottilia is called by many, helps her husband and her brother with finding the cause of death. When that is clear she uses all her detective skills to find the killer.
The book is situated in the countryside in mostly either the Dower House of the estate of an earl, her brother-in-law, or a three story country house that is the direct neighbour. The era is the end of the 18th century but the only clue to that is a hint to the violence of the French Revolution.
Due to the links to Barbados and mad women in the attic it had a strong Jane Eyre-influence.
The use of laudanum and the effect of opium are a key element in the story. Slavery is discussed as well.
Although several deaths occur none is described in a very violent manner and there are no bedscenes to worry the prudish readers. It is a classic style detective novel.
What I noticed was the higher level of English used in the book. A lot or contemporary, now a bit archaic, words but also just words I had to look up in my Kindle Dictionary. My excuse is that English is not my native language but I can imagine some American readers complaining. I did find it making the story more believable and thought provoking.
I was very impressed and as this was book 3 I think in a series and I had not read the other ones I ordered the first one in the series immediately after. Ok I will know she will marry the lord but the who-done-it in the earlier novels is not spoiled by flashbacks in this one.
GREAT READ: 5 STARS
November 8, 2018
A 'fairy' dancing in the snow early one morning introduces Lady Fan to her mother-in-law's neighbours - and her interest is in no way dampened by the death - under somewhat suspicious circumstances - of the guardian of said 'fairy'. But when the dead man turns out to have died of an overdose of opium, it is up to Lady Fan to work out whether the death was accidental or murder. The cross-currents and strange happenings in the house leave plenty of suspects - but can she come at the truth before it is too late?
I've read and enjoyed each of the previous books in the series and was excited to see a new book available. Somewhat reminiscent of Heyer's mysteries, but set in Regency times, this did not disappoint my high expectations. Good character development, interesting characters and situations, a good mystery and no gratuitous violence makes for a thoroughly enjoyable book - and frankly, I found the ending more satisfying than I think any other could have been, sad though it was in a way (trying to avoid spoilers here...). I didn't feel like there was quite as much development of the relationship between Francis and Lady Fan, but will hope for more in the next book. Recommended.
Characters: A mixed bag, but realistically managed. I particularly liked the introduction of Lady Fan's two nephews.
Storyline: Clues sprinkled in neatly along the way through the story, though I can't claim to have worked it out before it was spelled out.
Content and language: Clean, no issues noted.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I've read and enjoyed each of the previous books in the series and was excited to see a new book available. Somewhat reminiscent of Heyer's mysteries, but set in Regency times, this did not disappoint my high expectations. Good character development, interesting characters and situations, a good mystery and no gratuitous violence makes for a thoroughly enjoyable book - and frankly, I found the ending more satisfying than I think any other could have been, sad though it was in a way (trying to avoid spoilers here...). I didn't feel like there was quite as much development of the relationship between Francis and Lady Fan, but will hope for more in the next book. Recommended.
Characters: A mixed bag, but realistically managed. I particularly liked the introduction of Lady Fan's two nephews.
Storyline: Clues sprinkled in neatly along the way through the story, though I can't claim to have worked it out before it was spelled out.
Content and language: Clean, no issues noted.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
November 12, 2018
"The Opium Purge" is a mystery set in 1790 in London. This novel is the 3rd in the series, but you don't need to read the previous novels to understand this one. This story didn't spoil the whodunit of the previous books, but it did refer back to events in the first story.
The story revolved around a stunningly beautiful, young woman who inherited madness from her mother. Her guardian, Sir Joslin, dies after being pushed down some steps by the girl. She freely admits to trying to kill her guardian in revenge for something that happened several years before, but she won't explain what. Due to her medical training, Lady Fan knows that Sir Joslin didn't die from the push. He died from an opium overdose. She investigates what led up to that day and who in the household might wish to kill Sir Joslin. Complicating matters, her husband's nephew falls in love with the girl and refuses to acknowledge her mental deficiency.
Lady Fan is sympathetic towards the girl and her situation. She asked the household plenty of questions along with using her observational skills. The mystery was a clue-based, puzzle mystery. The characters were interesting, and I cared about what happened to them. The author used historical details to create the feeling of a specific time and place. There were only a few uses of bad language. There were no sex scenes. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable novel.
I received ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The story revolved around a stunningly beautiful, young woman who inherited madness from her mother. Her guardian, Sir Joslin, dies after being pushed down some steps by the girl. She freely admits to trying to kill her guardian in revenge for something that happened several years before, but she won't explain what. Due to her medical training, Lady Fan knows that Sir Joslin didn't die from the push. He died from an opium overdose. She investigates what led up to that day and who in the household might wish to kill Sir Joslin. Complicating matters, her husband's nephew falls in love with the girl and refuses to acknowledge her mental deficiency.
Lady Fan is sympathetic towards the girl and her situation. She asked the household plenty of questions along with using her observational skills. The mystery was a clue-based, puzzle mystery. The characters were interesting, and I cared about what happened to them. The author used historical details to create the feeling of a specific time and place. There were only a few uses of bad language. There were no sex scenes. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable novel.
I received ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
November 5, 2018
In this third mystery we are revisiting the lives of Lord and Lady Fanshawe. Ottilia is visiting her mother-in-law the Dowager Marchioness of Polbrook to rest up preparing for the birth of her first child. She spy’s a lovely young lady in the garden who looks just like a fairy princess. When she rushes down to investigate she finds the young lady has broken into the house. She soon realises Tamasine has something wrong with her and the appearance of neighbour Sir Joslin Cadel to claim his ward confirms her suspicions. Later Tamasine reappears at the window to claim she has killed Sir Joslin this starts Ottilia on one of her most heart wrenching and bewildering mysteries. You are taken on a journey which starts on the sugar plantations of Barbados to there neighbours Sir Joslin’s estate. Ottilia is helped by two budding young detectives, her nephews, doing her leg work for her. This is very much a page turner and you will come to realise that there is not always a choice in the circumstances of your birth. I would recommend following the further investigations of this very modern thinking lady.
I was given an ARC of this book by Netgalley and the publisher Sapere in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC of this book by Netgalley and the publisher Sapere in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2020
I was so excited when I realized another book had been published in the Lady Fan series after a 6 year hiatus. To say I really wanted to like this book would probably be an understatement, but after turning the last page I realized I just couldn't.
Elizabeth Bailey chose to include some serious subjects in this book including mental illness and slavery in the West Indies but I don't think they were handled particularly well. Frankly, I'm not even sure that she addressed them at all. Instead, she seems to have focused her research and explanation on the murder method, which is admittedly clever. The characters and historical setting are treated as a mere vehicle for the murder mystery. However, the cleverness of the mystery does not make up for the fact that scant attention was paid to the ramifications of the other themes. It doesn't sit well with me at all.
This book felt thoughtless and I am quite disappointed. I can only hope this was a brief low point before the series gets back on track.
Elizabeth Bailey chose to include some serious subjects in this book including mental illness and slavery in the West Indies but I don't think they were handled particularly well. Frankly, I'm not even sure that she addressed them at all. Instead, she seems to have focused her research and explanation on the murder method, which is admittedly clever. The characters and historical setting are treated as a mere vehicle for the murder mystery. However, the cleverness of the mystery does not make up for the fact that scant attention was paid to the ramifications of the other themes. It doesn't sit well with me at all.
This book felt thoughtless and I am quite disappointed. I can only hope this was a brief low point before the series gets back on track.
October 6, 2020
I love Lady Fan, and have enjoyed the stories and the characters in this series very much. While I enjoyed this third book as well, I found the story a bit manic and the pacing just a touch too frantic. That said I still enjoyed the story, and will read future books in this series!
The world created by the author for this series is delightful and I really enjoy visiting it. Lady Fan is smart, and sensible, and very determined to help whenever she can, in spite of her husband's and her mother-in-law's wish that she would refraind. It makes for some very fun adventures for the reader to go along on.
The author's note at the end of this book says she intended to make Willow Hall "a madhouse" literally, and she certainly suceeded from my perspective. As I said earlier, this was a well-written, entertaining plot, but it was a bit frantic for me in terms of just how much madness was going on, especially in the second half of the book. It was still a good read and I am looking forward to reading more books in the Lady Fan series!
The world created by the author for this series is delightful and I really enjoy visiting it. Lady Fan is smart, and sensible, and very determined to help whenever she can, in spite of her husband's and her mother-in-law's wish that she would refraind. It makes for some very fun adventures for the reader to go along on.
The author's note at the end of this book says she intended to make Willow Hall "a madhouse" literally, and she certainly suceeded from my perspective. As I said earlier, this was a well-written, entertaining plot, but it was a bit frantic for me in terms of just how much madness was going on, especially in the second half of the book. It was still a good read and I am looking forward to reading more books in the Lady Fan series!
December 24, 2018
This is the third book in the series, it’s 1790 Lord Francis and Lady Ottilia Fanshawe are preparing for the birth of their first child & are visiting family for the holidays
Their neighbour Sir Joslin Cadel who recently returned from a sugar plantation in Barbados, has collapsed and died on his doorstep & his young ward, Tamasine Roy, claims to have murdered him.
With Tamasine clearly suffering from some kind of mental disorder, and the rest of Cadel’s household acting suspiciously, it is clear all is not as it seems.
I found this an enjoyable read, it was well written & well researched as it delved into opium & laudanum addict. The characters are well fleshed, I’ve liked Lady Fan since the first book even though I feel she’s a little too modern for the era. There are twists & turns that I didn’t expect but all added to my enjoyment I've enjoyed the series especially how the characters have developed throughout the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Their neighbour Sir Joslin Cadel who recently returned from a sugar plantation in Barbados, has collapsed and died on his doorstep & his young ward, Tamasine Roy, claims to have murdered him.
With Tamasine clearly suffering from some kind of mental disorder, and the rest of Cadel’s household acting suspiciously, it is clear all is not as it seems.
I found this an enjoyable read, it was well written & well researched as it delved into opium & laudanum addict. The characters are well fleshed, I’ve liked Lady Fan since the first book even though I feel she’s a little too modern for the era. There are twists & turns that I didn’t expect but all added to my enjoyment I've enjoyed the series especially how the characters have developed throughout the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 31, 2021
The Opium Purge - Bailey
Audio performance by Esther Wane
3 stars
This is the third book of the 18th century Lady Fan mystery series. I can recommend the book for its sympathetic ongoing characters, the historical setting, and the slightly gothic mystery. I absolutely do not recommend the annoying audio performance.
In this book Lord Francis and Lady Otillia Fanshawe have returned to the dower house to celebrate the holidays in an attempt to smooth over family strife and drama. The drama only increases with the presence of a beautiful, but mentally deranged, young neighbor. Lady Otillia uses her observation and deductive skills when the young woman’s guardian dies in a fall down some icy stairs. The melodrama is only increased when Lord Fanshaw’s nephew becomes impulsively and secretly engaged to the lovely, insane Tasmine.
I can’t decide if the mystery plot was weak, or overly contrived. Probably both. However, the attitudes towards mental illness, the uses of opium, and the link to the sugar/slave trade were historically interesting. I liked the introduction of Otillia’s nephews, as investigative irregulars, although their involvement was too convenient. They added some humor to an overwrought story that could have used more of it.
Audio performance by Esther Wane
3 stars
This is the third book of the 18th century Lady Fan mystery series. I can recommend the book for its sympathetic ongoing characters, the historical setting, and the slightly gothic mystery. I absolutely do not recommend the annoying audio performance.
In this book Lord Francis and Lady Otillia Fanshawe have returned to the dower house to celebrate the holidays in an attempt to smooth over family strife and drama. The drama only increases with the presence of a beautiful, but mentally deranged, young neighbor. Lady Otillia uses her observation and deductive skills when the young woman’s guardian dies in a fall down some icy stairs. The melodrama is only increased when Lord Fanshaw’s nephew becomes impulsively and secretly engaged to the lovely, insane Tasmine.
I can’t decide if the mystery plot was weak, or overly contrived. Probably both. However, the attitudes towards mental illness, the uses of opium, and the link to the sugar/slave trade were historically interesting. I liked the introduction of Otillia’s nephews, as investigative irregulars, although their involvement was too convenient. They added some humor to an overwrought story that could have used more of it.
November 17, 2018
What a whirlwind!
Tho this book starts out very magical at first it quickly becomes fast paced and very mysterious. Following Lady Fan as she tries to unravel the mystery surrounding the occupants of Willow Court. Those with strong personalities themselves. While the beautiful sugar princess rules them all with her constant mischief changing emotions. This is another wonderful mystery with all the familiar characters from previous books of Lady Fan and her husband. It's great to finally meet her brother Patrick, his wife, and the nephews. I truly loved the nephews part in this and hopefully they'll be in many more books. Also the brother, which was also a wonderful characters. Sk
Tho this book starts out very magical at first it quickly becomes fast paced and very mysterious. Following Lady Fan as she tries to unravel the mystery surrounding the occupants of Willow Court. Those with strong personalities themselves. While the beautiful sugar princess rules them all with her constant mischief changing emotions. This is another wonderful mystery with all the familiar characters from previous books of Lady Fan and her husband. It's great to finally meet her brother Patrick, his wife, and the nephews. I truly loved the nephews part in this and hopefully they'll be in many more books. Also the brother, which was also a wonderful characters. Sk
April 11, 2019
The third in the Lady Fan mysteries, I found this one difficult to read. Perhaps that’s a sign that the character with mental illness was written very well? The character was all over the place - I felt like I had whiplash. But Lady Fan herself was enjoyable as ever, solving the mystery with assists from her husband, her brother, and her rather bold young nephews. I also appreciated the parts of the story told from different points of view, specifically Giles and Phoebe. I hope to see more of them in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
November 11, 2018
A good read
Historical mysteries can range from dismal to enchanting. For me the Lady Fan mysteries are enticing yet gentle. They are well written, well researched and well paced. The characters a fully fleshed yet not over blown. The idiosyncrasies of the era are respected yet not shoved down your throat.
I genuinely like Lady Ottilla Francis, 'Auntilla' as her nephews call her. Intelligent, capable and most definitely not given to 'vapors'. She has called me gently to tea and restful mental diversion.
I look forward to the next release
Historical mysteries can range from dismal to enchanting. For me the Lady Fan mysteries are enticing yet gentle. They are well written, well researched and well paced. The characters a fully fleshed yet not over blown. The idiosyncrasies of the era are respected yet not shoved down your throat.
I genuinely like Lady Ottilla Francis, 'Auntilla' as her nephews call her. Intelligent, capable and most definitely not given to 'vapors'. She has called me gently to tea and restful mental diversion.
I look forward to the next release
November 14, 2018
I really enjoy the Lady Fan Mystery series, this is becoming one of my favorites. It has good characters, good mysteries, and good writing.
While visiting her mother-in-law, Lady Fan sees a young woman dancing in the snow on the lawn. When meeting the woman, it is clear that she is mentally challenged. Tamasine Roy is the ward of the neighbor. Later the woman returns and announces that she killed her guardian, Sir Joslin. Lady Fan, her husband, and brother try to figure out the strange household and solve the mystery.
While visiting her mother-in-law, Lady Fan sees a young woman dancing in the snow on the lawn. When meeting the woman, it is clear that she is mentally challenged. Tamasine Roy is the ward of the neighbor. Later the woman returns and announces that she killed her guardian, Sir Joslin. Lady Fan, her husband, and brother try to figure out the strange household and solve the mystery.
September 18, 2019
This was another good addition to the Lady Fan series. I liked the mystery and the other characters that this new story introduces. In particular Tamasine and Hemp. Ottilia continues to be a delight as she solves another mystery. I am still enamored with her and Francis' relationship they are so sweet and love each other so much you can't help fall a little bit in love with the both of them. I was saddened by a death that happened at the end but the resolution of the mystery was well written I look forward to the next in the series!
January 11, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed the third Lady Fan mystery, maybe even more than I did the first 2!
But there were 2 things that confused me:
Giles is once referred to as the "Earl of Bennifield", which can't be true, can it, since this seems to be only a courtesy title for the heir to the Marquess of Polbrook?
And then in the end "Doctor Summerton" is mentioned, when until then we have only known Doctor Sutherland, so this too must be a mistake.
Both strike me as editing errors - correct me if I'm wrong - which is a pity in this otherwise utterly enjoyable book. :)
But there were 2 things that confused me:
Giles is once referred to as the "Earl of Bennifield", which can't be true, can it, since this seems to be only a courtesy title for the heir to the Marquess of Polbrook?
And then in the end "Doctor Summerton" is mentioned, when until then we have only known Doctor Sutherland, so this too must be a mistake.
Both strike me as editing errors - correct me if I'm wrong - which is a pity in this otherwise utterly enjoyable book. :)
November 9, 2018
1790, England and while staying with the Dowager Marchioness of Polbrook, her mother-in-law Lady Ottila Fanshawe spys a young lady, Tamasine Roy, dancing on the lawn below. Events lead to the death of Sir Joslin Cadal, the guardian of Miss Roy. Unfortunately Miss Roy declares she killed him. Can Ottila find out the truth.
Another enjoyable and interesting mystery in this well-written series. With some likeable characters especially Sybilla, the Dowager.
A netGalley Book
,
Another enjoyable and interesting mystery in this well-written series. With some likeable characters especially Sybilla, the Dowager.
A netGalley Book
,
May 25, 2023
Another excellent book in this series. Otillia Fanshaw (Lady Fan), is visiting with her mother in law when a young lady smashes the glass in the door and enters the parlour. Shortly after, her guardian and companion arrive to take her back home. Not long after the that, the girl returns in hysterics and says her guardian is dead and she killed him. Lady Fan loves a good mystery, and starts to investigate.
November 30, 2018
Great book
Lady Fan mysteries will keep your interest to the end. In this book you meet more of her family, watch for interaction with her mother-in-law, always a joy. Her love for her family keeps her going and solving mysteries keeps her sane. This time it's a dizzy. Madness, lust, and hate what more do you need in a murder mystery.
Lady Fan mysteries will keep your interest to the end. In this book you meet more of her family, watch for interaction with her mother-in-law, always a joy. Her love for her family keeps her going and solving mysteries keeps her sane. This time it's a dizzy. Madness, lust, and hate what more do you need in a murder mystery.
December 12, 2018
I’m addicted to this series. Ottilia is the perfect blend of crazy pregnant woman and highly intelligent sleuth in this 3rd book of the series. Her husband is hilariously over-protective. The pair are drawn in to yet another mystery, this time close to home and involving a family member. Madness and mayhem ensue. Read it right now - it’s cracking fun.
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