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April 1925.

Violet and Jack are finally getting married! The date has been saved, the flowers have been bought, the baker is working on a creation of layers upon layers. With all of the parties and teas to satisfy Violet's stepmother, no one could be more ready for the wedding day to arrive than these two.

When, however, Vi and Jack find a body at one of the pre-wedding parties, they expect their wedding plans to be a little askew. Only the victim is someone they both despised. Now Violet and Jack must solve the murder before their joyful day is ruined. Will they be able to solve the crime, say their vows, and get on with their lives? Or is their happily ever after ruined?

178 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2019

943 people are currently reading
128 people want to read

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Beth Byers

124 books278 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for QNPoohBear.
3,594 reviews1,567 followers
June 15, 2020
3.55 stars... not quite 3.75

Violet and Jack are finally getting married! They have bought a house on the same street as Victor and Kate so the twins can stay together. Jack has promised Violet's father that he will love and protect her- while being chaste until the wedding night. Everything is ready to go for Saturday! Then cousin Algie's American fiance arrives with her family. Her brash father demands Violet investigate who is blackmailing him. Vi refuses. She has plans only to focus on her wedding, nothing else. To say Robert Roche is mad is an understatement but Violet won't be deterred. Instead she decides to hold a housewarming party with roller skating in the ballroom and plenty of champagne. An angry party crasher threatens Violet and Jack's happiness and Jack makes sure the man doesn't come back but would he actually murder someone? When the man ends up dead, Jack becomes the prime suspect. Violet is gutted that her happy ever after is ruined. She knows in her heart Jack is innocent but what if the true killer is never found? What if Jack survives the investigation only to have scandal follow him and their future children? Violet can NOT let that happen! She mobilizes the gang and is prepared to beg, borrow, steal, lie, cheat her way to the truth to save her beloved Jack.

This is the best mystery of all I've read in this series. FINALLY someone killed Theo! It's about time! He had it coming so I'm not surprised and I'm not surprised by the long list of suspects. Someone should have gone it long ago. I was hoping it was a woman in self-defense or revenge because he deserved that. I never guessed whodunit.

I missed a lot of the personal relationship stuff. I was shocked to discover everyone else is married and having babies before Vi and Jack! I just assumed since they fell in love first, they'd be the first to marry. In this book, for the first time, I really FELT Vi's love for Jack and saw how much he loves her. She is utterly broken without him and distraught that their happiness is threatened. She doesn't just jump in and start investigating on his behalf. She grieves and gives in to the blues, which I appreciate. Vi is a strong woman and with the help of her friends, she rallies long enough to supervise the investigation and do some sleuthing herself. She's matured a lot in spite of the frivolous party. I do love her relationship with Jack and I now understand why he makes her feel safe. I don't understand why they're so careful to sleep with the door open even when her father isn't there. Jack cherishes Violet and would do anything to protect her. He has a really nasty temper but he knows how to control it. The very fact that he went out for a walk and a cigar shows he knows how to calm down before going too far. He had every justification to WANT to kill Theo but I know he didn't do it.

Victor is more in the background here. He's happily married to Kate and a "little nipper" will be along shortly. He's still protective of Violet so he'll do anything to help her. He manages the quasi-legal investigation with the private detective, leaving the sneaking to Vi. Kate seems to have lost her brain to her hormones. I liked her for her sarcasm and wit but I don't like seeing her reduced to weeping, wailing, moaning and worrying about her looks. Ugh. Isolde seems to have matured a lot too. It doesn't sound like she went to college though. She should have, just to broaden her horizons. I'm so happy Tomas is happy. Vi's plan worked a little too well. Oops! Lord Carlyle has a big role to play here. Like everyone else, I found his revelations very emotional and revealing but not entirely surprising. He's a fond but distant father. I'm uncertain as to why he married Eleanor in the first place. She is mercifully not on the scene but her disapproving presence is very much felt. How awful to be stuck with such a mother!

Lila and Denny really step up to the plate as well. Lila seems to have come into her own. She's not just sweet and loyal but sharp and level headed. Denny is still an affable sweetheart. There are some new members of the "gang." Rita Russell, an heiress friend of Vi's is new but a good friend. She's rich and beautiful but also smart and adventurous. I wasn't sure what to make of her at first but she's fun. Ham, Hamilton Barnes, is actually Jack's supervisor at the Yard and a much younger man than I expected. I assumed he was an older, middle-aged man. Ham is apparently young, attractive and newly fit. He's quiet and not silly. He's tough but fair. Being a lower social class than Jack means he's often overlooked and it makes him angry but I think it makes him a better detective. He'll fight harder for those who deserve it.

John Smith, the private investigator is the roguish type. I like rogues but maybe not as a private investigator. For this case, Violet really needs this mysterious fellow's help. He sounds useful but I'd be wary of him. Rita gets the hotel staff involved. Mr. Yardley, the manager, is a splendid fellow. He has reason to dislike his American guests but spying on them shows a lack of moral character. I liked how he was willing to help though. Cooper, the elevator operator, is a good man with a wealth of wisdom. However, he is willing to go to great lengths to help Violet when she hands him 50 pounds. He said he'd help for free but who knows? I'd be wary of staying at that hotel if I were Rita.

Algie is back and he was a surprise. He's straightened out a lot. He's affable and kind. His fiance, Clara Roche is an American millionaire's heiress. Clara is sweet and loving towards Algie but she's not a fool. She knows her own mind and can stand up to Daddy. I love what she's doing for her cousin and how Algie supports her 100%. He's grown on me now he stopped associating with Theo.

There are loads of suspects and new characters. Clara's family, the Roches are prime suspects. Her father, Robert, is not used to hearing no. He wants what he wants and wants it now. He expects orders to be obeyed. Someone is blackmailing his family and he won't have it. Like British noblemen, he's a snob and wants Violet supposedly because she's the best, along with Jack. He doesn't like Ham or want to accept anyone else. His son Robbie is spoiled. I feel sorry for nephew Barty though. Barty has a gambling addiction problem and this being the 1920s, they assume it's something he can stop whenever he's told to stop. Obviously today we know it's an addiction and he needs help. Unfortunately, Barty has made some rather awful choices that make him a prime suspect for murder. His fiance, Gertrude, is a prim and proper Puritanical maiden. She's clearly not marrying him for love. Why doesn't she break it off? Gertrude is an unpleasant woman.

Jack's former fiance, Emily Allen, came as a bit of a shock. I had no idea he had a former fiance or that she hated Vi. She is a very modern woman. Emily is bitter, sarcastic and knows what she wants out of life. Could she have killed Theo to frame Jack out of revenge? She seems like she could have done it. Emily is very cold-blooded. Lyle Longfellow is another prime suspect. He has good reason to hate Theo but he's hated Theo since childhood so why kill him now? Garfield Ives, another suspect is a quiet fellow. It's always the quiet ones who snap! He has more reason to kill another person though. Henrietta Moore seems a likely suspect because she's female and we know Theo's track record with women.

Even though I enjoyed this mystery the most of all the ones I've read, I don't have plans to read any more of this series. It's not cozy enough for me and Vi and Vic's silly bright young people antics are not really my thing.
Profile Image for Krystyna.
5,134 reviews55 followers
August 18, 2019
Great plot but the stories are getting shorter

Loved the plot. A race against time to free Jack after he is implicated in the murder of the cad Theo. Terrific use of characters and really like the new American who understands not only her father, how family dynamics evolve but also that the cousins might have had fallings out before but that in a crunch they presented a united front. Therefore if she was joining the family, she should do the same.
Their cousin is engaged to an American heiress and her mobster like father wants Vi and Jack to take on a case for him. On their refusal things escalate until a party ends with the death of Theo. With only a few days left until the wedding Vi calls in reinforcements to clear Jack's name before it's too late. Will they do so? Will they find unexpected allies that will help them? Will the wedding go ahead?
1,906 reviews18 followers
May 5, 2019
Delightful!

Violet and Jack are a week away from their wedding but murder intervenes --- Jack is the prime suspect! Friends and family come to their aid and mount an awesome search to prove Jack's innocence and find evidence to convict the real murderer, if they can determine who, among their many suspects! Lots of people involved with too many diversions!!Will the wedding take place?
Profile Image for David Dobzelecki.
4 reviews
May 26, 2019
A wonderful series of books with mystery, good friends, dancing, drinking and shopping

In England, mostly, between the World Wars. All with a wonderful overlay of friendships and romance and good/interesting/amusing people drawn through a series of murders in and around the central character of the madcap Lady Violet Carlisle. Each is a delightful chocolate like Denny would say, or a fabulous cocktail conceived by her twin Victor. So enjoyable. Thank you Amanda/Beth!!!
Profile Image for Amanda Jane.
1,337 reviews10 followers
August 16, 2019
Meh

Took it all too far.. right down to the last second denouement.. really over the top and completely beyond belief..

Still irritating with sidewalks and the like.. several typos and sentences that make little sense..

No one has cream in tea.. you might have lemon or milk.. you might have a black, green, herbal or fruit tea.. but never ever cream.. that goes in coffee.

It's the small things that build the irritation bit by bit..
Profile Image for Sharen.
624 reviews5 followers
March 25, 2021
What a rollercoaster ride!

Love this entire series. This one kept me up long past bedtime trying to figure out whodunnit. I was wrong! This series has everything...cozy, humor, snarky conversation, evil doers doing evil deeds (but no graphic violence), romance (but no graphic sex), no cliffhanger endings, cute little dogs, and charming characters (except the evil doers doing evil deeds). Cannot wait to start the next one.
Profile Image for Larry.
3,104 reviews18 followers
October 15, 2022
I loved this book! Every book in this series has been chock full of surprises, dismay, joy, happiness, and the feel of family. This book was even more so. I could feel the Violet character's fear, anguish, rage, and hope as well as all the support of her supporting characters with her. Jack is far too noble for his own good, but that is what makes him such a great partner for Violet. They fit together like Yin and Yang. Every book has been a roller coaster ride of a read, but this one put all the others to shame Well done, Ms. Byers! I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for L Kate.
1,277 reviews6 followers
July 17, 2019
Really Good Mystery!

This one had me guessing until the end! Less than a week before their wedding and murder occurs on the party to christen their new house. Not just any murder either. The murder of a man whom Jack has already thrown out of one party that week for inappropriate behavior toward Violet. And who is found standing over the body but Jack himself. Can Violet and her friends prove his innocence before the wedding is postponed ... or worse?
Profile Image for Kellye.
126 reviews
May 12, 2019
Too short!

Another fun installment which left me wondering what will happen in the next one. I wish this one had continued for at least one more chapter though....perhaps the guests wondering aloud about the couple or commenting or something.... Ready for the next installment in this saga.
42 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2019
Adorable as usual!

Loved this! Of course there was a body involved and a mystery to solve before Jack and Vi could possibly be married (finally!) but finally the quirky Carlyle ensemble gathered and put their all into getting to the bottom of this unpleasant business so that a wedding just might take place. No spoilers here ;>})
Profile Image for Nancy Wilson.
665 reviews4 followers
February 13, 2020
But of course no wedding between Violet and Jack would be complete without a murder. Unfortunately this murder comes 4 days before the wedding with Violet's most vile nemesis involved as the victim and Violet's most loved Jack as apparent killer. Violet and friends pull out all the stops, call in all favors to save her beloved--who obviously is the good guy! I am so hooked on this series--
98 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2020
A party, a fight and a murder

Jack and Violet plan a party at their new home to celebrate An American , Mr Roche , wants to hire them for a case it is turned down. During the party a fight breaks out and subsequently more of the combatants becomes murdered. Can Ham and the gang prove and flush out the killer before the wedding? Will they get a confession?
197 reviews2 followers
March 22, 2022
enjoyable read

Enjoyed this book, but it is not my favorite of the series that I’ve read so far. Maybe I was just tired, but there was just too many characters in this book. I know, it sounds silly to me too, but it’s how I feel. Still a good read and glad everything works in the end.
Profile Image for Sheryl Smith.
1,180 reviews5 followers
June 5, 2023
A real nail-biter

Poor Violet. This story is really hard on her. It's fun, though, to see her circle of friends growing. There are some interesting characters in this book that make it very challenging to find the real killer. In the end, Violet narrows down the list of suspects and solves the murder.
Profile Image for Kitten  Peters.
1,017 reviews5 followers
May 8, 2019
Oh my

What a book. For those of us who have been waiting for Jack and Violet's wedding we expected something like this.
Hold on to your book until you read the entire book. Do not put it down. Wow!
39 reviews
June 14, 2019
Once more Violet and Jack are thrown into a murder investigation. This time Jack is the prime suspect. Can Vi and her quirky friends proves his innocence and get him released in time for the wedding? Another marvelous mystery from Beth Byers.
Profile Image for Marie Shirley Griffin.
808 reviews10 followers
July 16, 2019
A bit drawn out

I love these books. The characters are fleshed out so well, you feel as if you've stepped in to this wonderful world.

This is a run up to Vi and Jack's wedding. The mystery is fabulous, but getting there is way too long.

Still, there are surprises right and left.
Profile Image for Heatherinblack .
748 reviews9 followers
July 29, 2019
people being stupid seems too important

great mystery. amazing work. clever characters. beautiful display of chosen family. and yet, the whole bullying into confession seems too convenient...again.
Profile Image for Tara Carpenter.
1,152 reviews13 followers
January 14, 2020
i was frustrated with this one. it's supposed to be the happily ever after wedding book but another murder threatens the happiness of our heroes and i wanted less stress and sad emotion and more light and happy for this one!
Profile Image for Jill.
390 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2020
Finally!

I've read all the Lady Violet books. This one is my favorite so far. So happy to read about all the commotion leading up to the big day. Great book. Please keep 'em coming.
103 reviews
November 5, 2020
A new series for me

This is another series set in the 1920s. I love the characters so much! I m glad that this series is longer than some others. I am about halfway through. Go start this series now for some great mysteries and fun?
30 reviews
February 12, 2022
Race for time

No one could bring forth the tension of the hours before the wedding like Beth Beyers. The plot and the characters are a study in human frailties and strengths. All of which are on display in this fast paced,action packed story. Bet you can't put it down.
451 reviews2 followers
June 26, 2023
Wedding Vows and Murder book 10

The author is a good storyteller mystery writer who weaves in hu,banter, and snark along with drama,anxiety, along with thinking outside the box and do what it takes to bring the guilty to justice 💃🏻❣️🥲🥰
429 reviews2 followers
May 8, 2019
Scotland Yard Man Accused Of Murder

This was the best book of the Violet Carlyle series. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
Profile Image for Danielle.
204 reviews
May 9, 2019
Sometimes it's hard to follow Violet's frailties. But on the whole, this is a very interesting series!
7 reviews
July 13, 2019
I love this whole series. Light hearted but with enough intrig to keep me wanting more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

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