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Lady Fan Mystery #5
The Mortal Blow
The intrepid Lady Fan is back! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen.
Lady Fan is back to full health but can she solve the trickiest case yet…?
1792, England
Lord Francis and Lady Ottilia Fanshawe are on their way home when their coach comes to a sudden stop.
A woman is standing in the middle of the road — covered in blood.
The woman refuses to speak but on further investigation they find the body of a man hidden in the woods.
Ottilia insists on bringing the woman home to find out what occurred.
But the more she finds out the more complicated the case becomes…
Who was the man in the woods? Did the blood-covered woman murder him?
Or did someone else strike The Mortal Blow…?
THE MORTAL BLOW is the fifth 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.
‘The late Regency writer Georgette Heyer lives—and she's writing mysteries as Elizabeth Bailey!’ - Meritorious Mysteries
‘Ottilia is a strong, intelligent character with a real enthusiasm for detective work’ – She Reads Novels
‘They have everything you love in romances, plus continuing characters you can really come to love, and murders as well! Her heroine sleuth, Ottilia, is a fantastic character.’ - Historical Romance UK
LADY FAN HISTORICAL MYSTERY SERIES
BOOK ONE: The Gilded Shroud
BOOK TWO: The Deathly Portent
BOOK THREE: The Opium Purge
BOOK FOUR: The Candlelit Coffin
BOOK FIVE: The Mortal Blow
Lady Fan is back to full health but can she solve the trickiest case yet…?
1792, England
Lord Francis and Lady Ottilia Fanshawe are on their way home when their coach comes to a sudden stop.
A woman is standing in the middle of the road — covered in blood.
The woman refuses to speak but on further investigation they find the body of a man hidden in the woods.
Ottilia insists on bringing the woman home to find out what occurred.
But the more she finds out the more complicated the case becomes…
Who was the man in the woods? Did the blood-covered woman murder him?
Or did someone else strike The Mortal Blow…?
THE MORTAL BLOW is the fifth 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.
‘The late Regency writer Georgette Heyer lives—and she's writing mysteries as Elizabeth Bailey!’ - Meritorious Mysteries
‘Ottilia is a strong, intelligent character with a real enthusiasm for detective work’ – She Reads Novels
‘They have everything you love in romances, plus continuing characters you can really come to love, and murders as well! Her heroine sleuth, Ottilia, is a fantastic character.’ - Historical Romance UK
LADY FAN HISTORICAL MYSTERY SERIES
BOOK ONE: The Gilded Shroud
BOOK TWO: The Deathly Portent
BOOK THREE: The Opium Purge
BOOK FOUR: The Candlelit Coffin
BOOK FIVE: The Mortal Blow
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2019
625 people are currently reading
195 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 54 reviews
June 5, 2021
1791, England. Elizabeth Bailey’s The Mortal Blow (Lady Fan Mystery #5) has Lord and Lady Fanshawe, while traveling home, stopped on the road because a young woman is standing in the middle of the road. This young woman, who will not speak, is covered in blood, indicates with her eyes when the word ‘dead’ is stated that there is more trouble than just her bloody appearance. This is how this story begins. Upon discovery of a corpse not too far from the young woman, Lord Fanshawe exasperatingly says, “ Hell and the devil confound it! Here we go again.” This series is based around Lady Ottilia’s (Lady Fan) intuitive feelings to solve mysteries. It is this to what her husband refers. I enjoy the characters who are continued with each new book - Lord and Lady Fanshawe, Sybilla, Lord Fanshawes’s mother, the Dowager Lady Polbrook, Hemp
( Fanshawe’s steward) among others, and seeing the development of these characters’ roles, but in this story, Lady Fan is at a loss more than once. The story does not flow evenly. There is one important point, though. This story illustrates how women were hardly thought human in 1791, and historically, through the 1800s as well as early 1900s, women were just considered property. If a woman mattered at all during these times, it was because of whom she married. 3.5 stars
( Fanshawe’s steward) among others, and seeing the development of these characters’ roles, but in this story, Lady Fan is at a loss more than once. The story does not flow evenly. There is one important point, though. This story illustrates how women were hardly thought human in 1791, and historically, through the 1800s as well as early 1900s, women were just considered property. If a woman mattered at all during these times, it was because of whom she married. 3.5 stars
May 11, 2019
Series: A Lady Fan Mystery #5
Publication Date: 4/13/19
Number of Pages: 374
This is the fifth book in the series, but can easily be read as a standalone. However, should you read it as a standalone, you will miss some of the intricacies of the relationships between the two lead characters and some family members. I had read the first couple of books in the series and did not like Ottilia at all, so I thought I’d wait a few books and try another one to see if the author had decided to mellow her at all. I believe that Ottilia is more likable in this book and more relatable, but I still haven’t grown to love her.
There is a nice mystery in the book, but the pace is as slow as molasses running uphill in the winter. I know the author had a hard time finding a way to have the accused actually be in danger of being hanged – I know because she said so in the Reader Notes in the back of the book. Anyway – her solution just didn’t work for me. It mainly didn’t work because in order for me to buy the solution, Sir Thomas Ingham, the magistrate, had to suddenly become a stupid, backward, misogynist – and he has never been that way in the past books. Sir Thomas had to be that stupid all the way through the book – even at the end. Also – Lord Fanshawe had to be stupid as well – at least for a while. So, while I understand the author’s dilemma, her solution just didn’t seem plausible to me.
Ottilia (Lady Fan) and her husband Lord Fanshawe are returning to London to help resolve some family issues. As they are nearing London, they see a lone woman, covered in blood, standing in the middle of the road. She is totally incoherent, she doesn’t speak, she just stares and points to the wooded area along the road. As they search the area, they discover the body of a dead man.
They take the woman along with them and try to make her comfortable while they report the crime to Sir Thomas Ingham. Once the body is recovered, the medical examiner determines the cause of death. That cause isn’t the injury that Meg inflicted on the man, but Sir Thomas blames Meg anyway. Kind of like she was fighting with him, so she is the one who caused the death.
Ottilia is determined to solve the mystery and prove Meg’s innocence, but all seems to work against her. Even Ottilia’s family members get involved as well as the French émigré’s. Then, there is a surprise twist at the end which is interesting.
I wouldn’t read this book again, but I’m glad I gave the series one more try
Publication Date: 4/13/19
Number of Pages: 374
This is the fifth book in the series, but can easily be read as a standalone. However, should you read it as a standalone, you will miss some of the intricacies of the relationships between the two lead characters and some family members. I had read the first couple of books in the series and did not like Ottilia at all, so I thought I’d wait a few books and try another one to see if the author had decided to mellow her at all. I believe that Ottilia is more likable in this book and more relatable, but I still haven’t grown to love her.
There is a nice mystery in the book, but the pace is as slow as molasses running uphill in the winter. I know the author had a hard time finding a way to have the accused actually be in danger of being hanged – I know because she said so in the Reader Notes in the back of the book. Anyway – her solution just didn’t work for me. It mainly didn’t work because in order for me to buy the solution, Sir Thomas Ingham, the magistrate, had to suddenly become a stupid, backward, misogynist – and he has never been that way in the past books. Sir Thomas had to be that stupid all the way through the book – even at the end. Also – Lord Fanshawe had to be stupid as well – at least for a while. So, while I understand the author’s dilemma, her solution just didn’t seem plausible to me.
Ottilia (Lady Fan) and her husband Lord Fanshawe are returning to London to help resolve some family issues. As they are nearing London, they see a lone woman, covered in blood, standing in the middle of the road. She is totally incoherent, she doesn’t speak, she just stares and points to the wooded area along the road. As they search the area, they discover the body of a dead man.
They take the woman along with them and try to make her comfortable while they report the crime to Sir Thomas Ingham. Once the body is recovered, the medical examiner determines the cause of death. That cause isn’t the injury that Meg inflicted on the man, but Sir Thomas blames Meg anyway. Kind of like she was fighting with him, so she is the one who caused the death.
Ottilia is determined to solve the mystery and prove Meg’s innocence, but all seems to work against her. Even Ottilia’s family members get involved as well as the French émigré’s. Then, there is a surprise twist at the end which is interesting.
I wouldn’t read this book again, but I’m glad I gave the series one more try
April 30, 2019
This was an intriguing tale and one that was quite involved. I love the connection between Lady Fan and her husband and her mother in law is growing on me as well! I do hope we are going to read more of her niece, Lady Elisabeth, she is quite a character. This is a tale that will keep you wondering what will be the outcome. I’m really enjoying this series and I look forward to the next.
April 4, 2019
1791, Lord Francis and Lady Ottilia Fanshawe are travelling to town when a female is seen standing in the middle of the road, seemingly covered in blood. On inspection a body is discovered in the nearby area. Lady Fan is determined to help, and takes the female with them. Where she starts her investigation with the help of Lord Francis and her niece Lady Elizabeth.
Another enjoyable well-written mystery in this series, where we discover more about the characters in the family.
A NetGalley Book
Another enjoyable well-written mystery in this series, where we discover more about the characters in the family.
A NetGalley Book
November 19, 2020
This is the 5th installment of a historical mystery that I really enjoy.
Lady Fanshawe (Lady Fan) is a lady who literally seems to have mysteries/murders drop into her lap. This time she and her husband encounter a young woman in shock, covered in blood, blocking their carriage in the middle of the woods. A fanatical father, a cast of n’er do-wells, a “definitely not a saint” hero, an over-the-top emotional heroine and an eager teenage sleuth make for a rollicking, entertaining adventure and an interesting twisty mystery.
Lady Fanshawe (Lady Fan) is a lady who literally seems to have mysteries/murders drop into her lap. This time she and her husband encounter a young woman in shock, covered in blood, blocking their carriage in the middle of the woods. A fanatical father, a cast of n’er do-wells, a “definitely not a saint” hero, an over-the-top emotional heroine and an eager teenage sleuth make for a rollicking, entertaining adventure and an interesting twisty mystery.
April 20, 2019
The Mortal blow is the fifth in the Lady Fan Mystery series, but can also serve as a stand alone book.
Lady Fan and her husband are on their way to London to stay with family when their progress is halted by a young woman standing immoble in the middle of the road and convered in blood. Well exploring the area and searching for some form of clue as to what must have befallen the girl, they find the body of a man. The two are obviously connected but how? How is she covered in so much blood? Is she hurt? What was the young woman doing with this man? Where did they come from? How did he die? This is a perfect case for Lady Fan and so they coax the girl to come back to London with them and the investigation begins.
All the characters are great and entertaining to read. This book is rich with historical detail, and reads really smoothly. It was also a fairly slow read though. All the keys to the mystery are given to us early on in the book, so there is really no sense of urgency to the book. It's all in the beginning, which made it hard to stick with it all the way through. There's one small aspect of the mystery that is held back until very close to the end of the book, but it is such a small part to the investigation that I really didn't care whether I discovered the culprit or not. They already know what had happened and how it played into their investigation, it was just the matter of who. And once they discover it, nothing is then done with the information. It felt like a monumental waste of my time. Further as Lady Fan was trying to help girl, she kept flip-floping from being helpful and forthcoming to being secretive and difficult. Therefore when everything is concluded, I wasn't truly investead in whether it would be favorable for them or not.
The series itself is enjoyable, but this perhaps isn't the best executed of the series.
*I received a copy of The Mortal Blow from Sapere Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Fan and her husband are on their way to London to stay with family when their progress is halted by a young woman standing immoble in the middle of the road and convered in blood. Well exploring the area and searching for some form of clue as to what must have befallen the girl, they find the body of a man. The two are obviously connected but how? How is she covered in so much blood? Is she hurt? What was the young woman doing with this man? Where did they come from? How did he die? This is a perfect case for Lady Fan and so they coax the girl to come back to London with them and the investigation begins.
All the characters are great and entertaining to read. This book is rich with historical detail, and reads really smoothly. It was also a fairly slow read though. All the keys to the mystery are given to us early on in the book, so there is really no sense of urgency to the book. It's all in the beginning, which made it hard to stick with it all the way through. There's one small aspect of the mystery that is held back until very close to the end of the book, but it is such a small part to the investigation that I really didn't care whether I discovered the culprit or not. They already know what had happened and how it played into their investigation, it was just the matter of who. And once they discover it, nothing is then done with the information. It felt like a monumental waste of my time. Further as Lady Fan was trying to help girl, she kept flip-floping from being helpful and forthcoming to being secretive and difficult. Therefore when everything is concluded, I wasn't truly investead in whether it would be favorable for them or not.
The series itself is enjoyable, but this perhaps isn't the best executed of the series.
*I received a copy of The Mortal Blow from Sapere Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2019
Always a wonderful story
I can always rely on the fact that these book about Lady Fan will be amazing! This one is no different. Also with each book there are the wonderful characters that keep getting deeper into knowing them. Such as Lady Fan & Frances her husband. This book especially show more of the wonderful love they have for each other. The other books also show it, but as each book is read it just grows deeper in knowledge. Also Sybila keeps getting more known, & of her deep affection for her daughter in law Ottilia. It always wonderful reading books where the characters develop as well known persons. So much you could send them a letter and expect a reply. This was a very different mystery than the previous ones. I was sure how it would play out getting the innocent Meg out from the hangman's noose. As also Ottilia feared. How could she free her without any evidence to help. This has many ups and downs, with twists aplenty. I hope you try the whole series, which is the best way to know how each character developed.
I can always rely on the fact that these book about Lady Fan will be amazing! This one is no different. Also with each book there are the wonderful characters that keep getting deeper into knowing them. Such as Lady Fan & Frances her husband. This book especially show more of the wonderful love they have for each other. The other books also show it, but as each book is read it just grows deeper in knowledge. Also Sybila keeps getting more known, & of her deep affection for her daughter in law Ottilia. It always wonderful reading books where the characters develop as well known persons. So much you could send them a letter and expect a reply. This was a very different mystery than the previous ones. I was sure how it would play out getting the innocent Meg out from the hangman's noose. As also Ottilia feared. How could she free her without any evidence to help. This has many ups and downs, with twists aplenty. I hope you try the whole series, which is the best way to know how each character developed.
April 15, 2019
Wonderful!
First book was extraordinary and the following ones are just as good! Tillie and Fan find a woman, covered in blood and in shock, in a deserted road, and the dead body of a man in the nearby woods. Story attempts to find out what happened, who did what, and was a crime committed. Many family members become involved, with the usual fireworks among them, and the tale just becomes more and more complicated. It is a very good adventure, great writing, and an interesting outcome. The characters are wonderful and very realistic.
First book was extraordinary and the following ones are just as good! Tillie and Fan find a woman, covered in blood and in shock, in a deserted road, and the dead body of a man in the nearby woods. Story attempts to find out what happened, who did what, and was a crime committed. Many family members become involved, with the usual fireworks among them, and the tale just becomes more and more complicated. It is a very good adventure, great writing, and an interesting outcome. The characters are wonderful and very realistic.
February 17, 2020
Another very satisfying instalment of the Lady Fan series. This time Lady Fan is drawn into a mystery when she encounters a young woman on the road, covered in blood. The usual cast of characters help her to solve a murder with the addition of her niece, Lady Elizabeth, who proves to be a force to be reckoned with. Can’t wait to read the next one.
April 14, 2019
While on her way to London, Lady Fan comes across a woman standing in the middle of the road, silent, in shock, and covered in blood, most of it obviously from someone else, though her hands are covered in shallow cuts. An investigation reveals a dead body lying in the woods nearby, from which the blood has obviously come. The man's chest and stomach are similarly cut about, but is that what killed him? Lady Fan interprets the signs differently, and refuses to believe that the woman is responsible for the man's death. But will she be able to find the evidence to convince a (male) jury? As the situation begins to unfold and it becomes clear who is truly responsible, Lady Fan realises that this time she's up against something that she may not be able to fix...
I have to start by saying that the improbability of one woman who is in no way connected with law enforcement coming across all of these situations that she faces in this series is something that must be put aside before the stories can be enjoyed. However, having decided to ignore that, the books themselves are well written, with interesting characters and good storylines. Meg's father made me mad, but I enjoyed the continuation of the relationship between Francis and Otillia, and the entrance of Lizzie was good. I seem to have missed reading book 4, and the references to it intrigued me enough to make me want to go back and read it, but the book can stand alone, though there are occasional references to previous 'adventures' throughout.
Recommended for readers of Heyer's mysteries, though with a historical setting, but with the added benefits of Francis and Tillie (and others) as ongoing characters and relationships, and less objectionable language.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I have to start by saying that the improbability of one woman who is in no way connected with law enforcement coming across all of these situations that she faces in this series is something that must be put aside before the stories can be enjoyed. However, having decided to ignore that, the books themselves are well written, with interesting characters and good storylines. Meg's father made me mad, but I enjoyed the continuation of the relationship between Francis and Otillia, and the entrance of Lizzie was good. I seem to have missed reading book 4, and the references to it intrigued me enough to make me want to go back and read it, but the book can stand alone, though there are occasional references to previous 'adventures' throughout.
Recommended for readers of Heyer's mysteries, though with a historical setting, but with the added benefits of Francis and Tillie (and others) as ongoing characters and relationships, and less objectionable language.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
April 16, 2019
Lady Fan is feeling better after a tragic event several months ago. She isn't sure she's ready to visit her husband's family to deal with issues related to their two nieces' debut into society, but duty calls. On the carriage ride to London, Lady Fan and Lord Francis come across a young woman covered with blood and a dead body nearby. Lady Fan is determined to find out what really happened, especially since these events may have an unexpected connection to one of her niece's debut.
I've enjoyed all four of the previous books in this series. "The Mortal Blow" reads as a standalone and details from past books that are relevant to this story are well-explained. I really enjoy this series and as always, the love between Lady Fan and Lord Francis is in full display. Their relationship is the highlight of the book and this entire series. The language the author uses and the vivid description carry you back to 1791 and immerse you into the story.
I liked this book, but it was one of my least favorite in the series. There was too much repetition as Lady Fan tried to solve the case, without the cooperation of the victim/suspect they had found and were trying to help. Her caginess and unwillingness to give straight answers becomes frustrating and has the story going around in circles. One of Lady Fan's nieces by marriage, Lady Elizabeth or "Lizzy", is clever and could be a great addition to the series. However, I liked her a lot better when she was assisting Lady Fan than when she tried to investigate on her own without knowing all the facts or how much danger she was putting herself in.
Some of the events towards the end of the book seemed far-fetched to me, but I still liked the way the book ended. I enjoy this series and look forward to Lady Fan's next adventure.
I received this book from NetGalley through the courtesy of Sapere Books. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
I've enjoyed all four of the previous books in this series. "The Mortal Blow" reads as a standalone and details from past books that are relevant to this story are well-explained. I really enjoy this series and as always, the love between Lady Fan and Lord Francis is in full display. Their relationship is the highlight of the book and this entire series. The language the author uses and the vivid description carry you back to 1791 and immerse you into the story.
I liked this book, but it was one of my least favorite in the series. There was too much repetition as Lady Fan tried to solve the case, without the cooperation of the victim/suspect they had found and were trying to help. Her caginess and unwillingness to give straight answers becomes frustrating and has the story going around in circles. One of Lady Fan's nieces by marriage, Lady Elizabeth or "Lizzy", is clever and could be a great addition to the series. However, I liked her a lot better when she was assisting Lady Fan than when she tried to investigate on her own without knowing all the facts or how much danger she was putting herself in.
Some of the events towards the end of the book seemed far-fetched to me, but I still liked the way the book ended. I enjoy this series and look forward to Lady Fan's next adventure.
I received this book from NetGalley through the courtesy of Sapere Books. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2022
Lady Fan attracts another mystery
Lady Fan stumbles upon another murder on the road,to London. She and her husband are en route to London for the comeout of their two nieces. Suddenly, their coach is stopped by a dazed young girl, mute and covered in blood. Lady Fan recognizes, that the young woman is in shock and bundles her into the coach.
Meanwhile, Sir Francis and his groom search the nearby wood and discover a bloodied corpse. Then the couple must explain their discoveries to Sybilla, Francis's grande dame mother and Sir Thomas Ingham, the. director of the Bow Street Runners.
Soon all of Sir Francis's family is embroiled in the case as they navigate the London Season. Their niece Lizzie wants to emulate her Aunt Fan and help the troubled girl and is not overly interested in the Marriage Mart. The search for the truth takes them to the gambling clubs of Mayfair, to a horse auction at Tattersall's a backwater village and a bawdy house in London.
Memorable characters include a French emigrate of dubious background, a fanatical preacher, the madam who runs a house of ill repute for men of means and an assortment of rakish gamblers.
I gave this book four stars because the young lovers at the center of the drama were not very likable individuals. The murder victim was a mean and perverse man who no one seemed to miss. But the settings were great, and the portrait of the evolution of Lord and Lady Fan's marriage is endearing and realistic. I will continue to follow their journey together and hope to see more of the dashing Lady Elizabeth in the future.
Lady Fan stumbles upon another murder on the road,to London. She and her husband are en route to London for the comeout of their two nieces. Suddenly, their coach is stopped by a dazed young girl, mute and covered in blood. Lady Fan recognizes, that the young woman is in shock and bundles her into the coach.
Meanwhile, Sir Francis and his groom search the nearby wood and discover a bloodied corpse. Then the couple must explain their discoveries to Sybilla, Francis's grande dame mother and Sir Thomas Ingham, the. director of the Bow Street Runners.
Soon all of Sir Francis's family is embroiled in the case as they navigate the London Season. Their niece Lizzie wants to emulate her Aunt Fan and help the troubled girl and is not overly interested in the Marriage Mart. The search for the truth takes them to the gambling clubs of Mayfair, to a horse auction at Tattersall's a backwater village and a bawdy house in London.
Memorable characters include a French emigrate of dubious background, a fanatical preacher, the madam who runs a house of ill repute for men of means and an assortment of rakish gamblers.
I gave this book four stars because the young lovers at the center of the drama were not very likable individuals. The murder victim was a mean and perverse man who no one seemed to miss. But the settings were great, and the portrait of the evolution of Lord and Lady Fan's marriage is endearing and realistic. I will continue to follow their journey together and hope to see more of the dashing Lady Elizabeth in the future.
April 11, 2019
"The Mortal Blow" is a mystery set in 1791 in London. This novel is the 5th 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.
Lady Fan finds a girl covered in blood and clearly in shock. With her firm but caring manner, she quickly discovers that the girl was defending herself from a man who was trying to rape her. The man is dead, and a jury is sure to convict her for killing her attacker. Lady Fan believes an earlier blow was the true cause of death, and she's determined to save the girl by finding out who dealt that blow.
This was a clue-based mystery, though it was more about trying to build a strong enough case to save the girl than difficulty discovering what happened. Lady Fan asked plenty of questions and used her observational skills, but she also got help from her husband and from a niece with some ideas of her own.
The characters were interesting, and I cared about what happened to them. Historical details were woven into the story to create the feeling of a specific time and place. There was a minor amount of 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.
Lady Fan finds a girl covered in blood and clearly in shock. With her firm but caring manner, she quickly discovers that the girl was defending herself from a man who was trying to rape her. The man is dead, and a jury is sure to convict her for killing her attacker. Lady Fan believes an earlier blow was the true cause of death, and she's determined to save the girl by finding out who dealt that blow.
This was a clue-based mystery, though it was more about trying to build a strong enough case to save the girl than difficulty discovering what happened. Lady Fan asked plenty of questions and used her observational skills, but she also got help from her husband and from a niece with some ideas of her own.
The characters were interesting, and I cared about what happened to them. Historical details were woven into the story to create the feeling of a specific time and place. There was a minor amount of 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.
April 26, 2019
The year 1791 and Lady Ottilia and Lord Francis are on their way to see his mother when in a woodland a woman stands stock still in the middle of the road, covered in blood. Thinking it may be an ambush they are cautious in approaching the woman, but Fan realises that she is almost catatonic and unaware of who and what they are.
Investigations reveal a dead man minus any injuries so where did the blood come from? Lady Fan her investigative antenna fully operational takes on the woman and the case which unravels slowly but surely with French emigres, a fanatic pastor father and a woman frail, fragile and at risk of hanging for murder in the absence of any other possible suspect and no witnesses.
My first foray into Lady Fan mysteries and I am a fan. I also like history and the setting was marvellous. Very descriptive of London in all areas from the high brow aristocratic circles to the poorest of the poor.
Slow deduction of this mystery murder added to the interest.
Investigations reveal a dead man minus any injuries so where did the blood come from? Lady Fan her investigative antenna fully operational takes on the woman and the case which unravels slowly but surely with French emigres, a fanatic pastor father and a woman frail, fragile and at risk of hanging for murder in the absence of any other possible suspect and no witnesses.
My first foray into Lady Fan mysteries and I am a fan. I also like history and the setting was marvellous. Very descriptive of London in all areas from the high brow aristocratic circles to the poorest of the poor.
Slow deduction of this mystery murder added to the interest.
February 18, 2021
I liked this 5th book in the Lady Fan series, although it was a little convoluted at the end. The story is about family abuse at heart, and the injustice of a woman defending herself against a man in that era. I ground my teeth while imagining how many went to prison or the gallows simply because they had no power, and no one wanted to change the status quo.
But Ottilia does not disappoint! She goes headlong into another mystery, this time bringing it home. Victim or murderer living under her family’s roof? French rogues, recently escaped from the French Revolution, circle around with their own secrets. Lady Violette finally moves into the substance of the book series, where she has been in the background since Book 1.
As always narrated by Esther Wane, who can pull of a French accent while changing voices. Delightful!
But Ottilia does not disappoint! She goes headlong into another mystery, this time bringing it home. Victim or murderer living under her family’s roof? French rogues, recently escaped from the French Revolution, circle around with their own secrets. Lady Violette finally moves into the substance of the book series, where she has been in the background since Book 1.
As always narrated by Esther Wane, who can pull of a French accent while changing voices. Delightful!
October 31, 2021
This is the kind of story line I like. Historical Mysteries with a female investigator. The problem with this series is way too much conflict. Yeah, I know, DRAMA, but the constant bickering is just annoying. Also, I know women were severely oppressed during this time period but Lady Fan constantly kissing up to her husband and he acting like a controlling jerk is not entertaining. I’m on the 6th book in this series and I’m about ready to quit.
The thing I did like about this series in the beginning is the author actually provided clues to who the murderer is. I’ve read other authors who don’t provide a clue to a totally unrealistic murder just so the reader can be surprised at who committed the crime. In other words make the crime and clues realistic but I don’t want the reality of actual relationships which involve a lot bickering, whining and complaining.
The thing I did like about this series in the beginning is the author actually provided clues to who the murderer is. I’ve read other authors who don’t provide a clue to a totally unrealistic murder just so the reader can be surprised at who committed the crime. In other words make the crime and clues realistic but I don’t want the reality of actual relationships which involve a lot bickering, whining and complaining.
May 7, 2019
Justice is served?
Witty. Funny. Entertaining. The mystery grabs the reader's attention from the beginning. An apparent murder easily blamed to a bloody woman found near the site. Nothing is as it appears. There was an accidental death at it's best but circumstances force the law to detain the woman. Lady Fan tries her best to prove her innocence. She involves her impulsive niece who device her own way to save the girl and her lover. Lady Fan is forced to help the fugitives escape. Lots of twists and turns before the truth is revealed but it won't help the innocent so what's is there to do?
It would help the reader to provide some space between change of scenes or passages. It takes awhile before the reader realizes the characters or the scenes have changed.
Witty. Funny. Entertaining. The mystery grabs the reader's attention from the beginning. An apparent murder easily blamed to a bloody woman found near the site. Nothing is as it appears. There was an accidental death at it's best but circumstances force the law to detain the woman. Lady Fan tries her best to prove her innocence. She involves her impulsive niece who device her own way to save the girl and her lover. Lady Fan is forced to help the fugitives escape. Lots of twists and turns before the truth is revealed but it won't help the innocent so what's is there to do?
It would help the reader to provide some space between change of scenes or passages. It takes awhile before the reader realizes the characters or the scenes have changed.
February 2, 2022
Let me preface this review with, I would not want to play scrabble with Elizabeth Bailey! At first I found her overuse of an extensive vocabulary amusing, then distracting, then downright annoying. Every time a word popped up that was overly elaborate I would think, did she literally write this with a thesaurus. It reminded me of my first semester of college when classmates tried to embellish a C paper with elaborate grammar. It distracted me from the story. However, when I did reflect on the story it was just OK. It was more about the niece than Lady Fan and not overly thought provoking or inspiring enough to move onto the next book. I read the series this far but unfortunately I'm getting off the ride now.
June 21, 2022
love Lady Fan
Lady Fan is bested; but Lady Elizabeth is taking notes. Such delightful characters that I almost at once have to dive into the next book to see what happens! Each mystery is a bit different and of course it boggles the mind that a person should be exposed to so many adventures, but that is what cozy mysteries do. Realism is overrated. It is nice that with the Lady Fan books this is the only thing obviously contrived. Even the minor characters are quite themselves, I can only hope Helen reappears at some point. I often get upset at clergy being a Caricature , and the Reverend is such but I’m not as forgiving lately (of real clergy)and Ms. Bailey has given us a few kindly Vicars so I suppose, like real life, there are good and bad.
Lady Fan is bested; but Lady Elizabeth is taking notes. Such delightful characters that I almost at once have to dive into the next book to see what happens! Each mystery is a bit different and of course it boggles the mind that a person should be exposed to so many adventures, but that is what cozy mysteries do. Realism is overrated. It is nice that with the Lady Fan books this is the only thing obviously contrived. Even the minor characters are quite themselves, I can only hope Helen reappears at some point. I often get upset at clergy being a Caricature , and the Reverend is such but I’m not as forgiving lately (of real clergy)and Ms. Bailey has given us a few kindly Vicars so I suppose, like real life, there are good and bad.
April 14, 2019
Read and liked the book.It is different from her other 4 stories in the series, which I have read.I had a bit of difficulty in getting the time line sorted out after reading the last book in the series which was also about a year after losing their baby,but not to worry.Read the note to the reader it does appear the book is in 2 halves and will be a preclude to a series involving Lady Friske but I for one would like to see the Fanshawees have a baby (not adopted) it would be seen to be the icing on the cake and cement their relationship.😊
June 28, 2019
I really like Lady Fan. She is smart, brave, logical, and determined. On their way to London, Lady Fan and her husband come across a young woman covered in blood. They find a body near by and take the woman with their to her mother-in-law's house. Lady Fan does not believe the woman killed the man.
There are several mysteries here - who is she, who is the dead body, and who killed the body. There are several jumps in the story and resolution is not the best, but I stilled enjoyed it. Look forward to #6!
There are several mysteries here - who is she, who is the dead body, and who killed the body. There are several jumps in the story and resolution is not the best, but I stilled enjoyed it. Look forward to #6!
December 8, 2020
I liked this book. I thought it was pretty interesting. The problem I had was with the writing. It seems to jump time or pov's without warning. For example, chapter 5 starts with Meg dreaming and sleeping at night. Then it jumps to Ottilia's pov in the morning and suddenly it's the night before. All this happens in 3 pages. I like pov changes and times jumps, but please have some kind of indication this is happening. It could even be as little as a break in the page with "***" separating it. It's just confusing as is. This happens multiple times throughout the whole book.
June 30, 2019
This is book 5 in the Lady Fan series, and while it can be read as a stand-alone, the nuanced relationships make much more sense when the characters’ backgrounds are understood. The mystery was soooo sloooow to unravel until about the 60% mark, and then it really started moving. I might have given up sooner if I hadn’t already invested myself in the four previous books.
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.
October 28, 2020
I enjoyed this addition to the Lady Fan Mysteries. The mystery was well done and different from her other ones. My favorite part of this series is Ottilia and her relationship with her husband Francis and they are still going strong. They not only love each other deeply but they also like each other and Francis is very supportive of Ottilia and her penchant in solving mysteries. Overall a very good book!
July 31, 2022
3 stars.
I enjoy the introduction of their niece Lizzy, she's much more fun than her cousin Candia.
This one started exciting enough but it almost feels as if the author wrote herself into a corner and wasn't sure how to end things? I guess I was expecting a bit more.
I enjoy the introduction of their niece Lizzy, she's much more fun than her cousin Candia.
This one started exciting enough but it almost feels as if the author wrote herself into a corner and wasn't sure how to end things? I guess I was expecting a bit more.
July 26, 2023
This is an excellent series. A who-done-it set in the late 1700's, and the main character is a woman! Lord and Lady Fanshaw are heading to London for the season, when their carriage is stopped by a woman on the road, covered in blood and seemingly catatonic. Upon searching further, they find the body of a man, also covered in blood. Odellia (or Tillie or even Lady Fan depending on who you are) takes the woman in.
April 21, 2019
Enjoyable book
As with the other Lady Fan books this one was a page turner. This time we are introduced to more of Lady Fan's relations, hope they will be in more books to come, becoming very involved in the storyline. This is a race to prevent a hanging and secure happiness along with discovering who was responsible for the murder. Enjoy.
are coming along wonderfully and
As with the other Lady Fan books this one was a page turner. This time we are introduced to more of Lady Fan's relations, hope they will be in more books to come, becoming very involved in the storyline. This is a race to prevent a hanging and secure happiness along with discovering who was responsible for the murder. Enjoy.
are coming along wonderfully and
April 21, 2019
Hi Everyone
What can I say I've now read all 5 books in the series of Lady Fan and the Family members a rather good read ...I'm actually a Matured Gothic Lady who makes my own clothing i.e. Victorian era but love all periods in our wonderful History
So for me it was a great hit ...from start to finish hopefully there will be more to come ...Relax and enjoy a good Read
What can I say I've now read all 5 books in the series of Lady Fan and the Family members a rather good read ...I'm actually a Matured Gothic Lady who makes my own clothing i.e. Victorian era but love all periods in our wonderful History
So for me it was a great hit ...from start to finish hopefully there will be more to come ...Relax and enjoy a good Read
August 9, 2019
I enjoyed the mystery element of this book, as I have the others in the series. But it's the characters that make me pick up keen to pick up these books. I particularly enjoy the relationship between Lady Fan and her husband - not too perfect, but in turns loving, humorous, exasperated and so on. A good read and I look forward to the next in the series.
April 16, 2020
Another excellent Lady Fan mystery!!
I am a great fan of historical mysteries and nobody does them better than Elizabeth Bailey. I hope she writes more Lady Fan and Francis stories. The characters seem so real and the details of the era so believable, one can easily forget that they are fictional!
I am a great fan of historical mysteries and nobody does them better than Elizabeth Bailey. I hope she writes more Lady Fan and Francis stories. The characters seem so real and the details of the era so believable, one can easily forget that they are fictional!
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