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Ginger Gold Mystery #12
Murder on Fleet Street
Murder’s a Deadly Secret!
Hop aboard the 1920s! THE GINGER GOLD MYSTERY SERIES Murder on the SS Rosa (Book 1) Murder at Hartigan House (Book 2) Murder at Bray Manor (Book 3) Murder at Feathers & Flair (Book 4) Murder at the Mortuary (Book 5) Murder at Kensington Gardens (Book 6) Murder at st. George’s Church (Book 7) The Wedding of Ginger & Basil (Book 7.5) Murder Aboard the Flying Scotsman (Book 8) Murder at the Boat Club (Book 9) Murder on Eaton Square (Book 10) Murder by Plum Pudding (Book 11) Murder on Fleet Street (Book 12) ~more on the way! Don't miss LADY GOLD INVESTIGATES, the short story companion series!
Mrs. Ginger Reed—the former Lady Gold—thought her past was dead and buried, but when the mysterious death of a British secret service agent threatens to expose her own Great War secrets, she’s faced with an unimaginable dilemma: break her legal vow to the Official Secrets Act or join the agency again, something she’s loathe to do.
Because once they own your soul, there’s no getting it back.
~ Clean read: no graphic violence, sex, or strong language. Genre: dog cozy mystery series / historical mystery / women amateur sleuth / British detective mysteryHop aboard the 1920s! THE GINGER GOLD MYSTERY SERIES Murder on the SS Rosa (Book 1) Murder at Hartigan House (Book 2) Murder at Bray Manor (Book 3) Murder at Feathers & Flair (Book 4) Murder at the Mortuary (Book 5) Murder at Kensington Gardens (Book 6) Murder at st. George’s Church (Book 7) The Wedding of Ginger & Basil (Book 7.5) Murder Aboard the Flying Scotsman (Book 8) Murder at the Boat Club (Book 9) Murder on Eaton Square (Book 10) Murder by Plum Pudding (Book 11) Murder on Fleet Street (Book 12) ~more on the way! Don't miss LADY GOLD INVESTIGATES, the short story companion series!
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2019
1163 people are currently reading
346 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,342 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 23, 2022
Ginger Reed, the former Lady Gold, and her husband, Chief Inspector Basil Reed, are celebrating the adoption of their son Scout, when they learn that their neighbor has disappeared. Lord George Whitmore left work yesterday and never returned home. Known for his past affairs with several women, people believe Whitmore will eventually find his way home to his wife. Ginger saw Lord Whitmore with another woman yesterday while she was running errands. She and Basil visit the apartment she saw him enter and find his body. Later a man from Ginger's past tells her that he needs her help. He puts Ginger in the position of keeping secrets from her husband or breaking her oath to her country.
I wasn't a big fan of this cozy mystery. Though all of the usual characters were back for this story, we had to deal with Ginger's past in the British Secret Service during the first World War. I'm not a fan of the stories where her past gets in the way of our mystery. I hope this is the last time. The final chapter does have some good news for the readers of this series. I'm looking forward to what happens next. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
I wasn't a big fan of this cozy mystery. Though all of the usual characters were back for this story, we had to deal with Ginger's past in the British Secret Service during the first World War. I'm not a fan of the stories where her past gets in the way of our mystery. I hope this is the last time. The final chapter does have some good news for the readers of this series. I'm looking forward to what happens next. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
June 3, 2020
If this is the end, what a way to end it! I have enjoyed the entire series.
June 12, 2020
The fashion tidbits in "Murder on Fleet Street" were a little excessive, Ginger even pausing in the middle of finding a body and searching for clues to admire herself in the mirror. She even twirled around.
Far too much stilted dialogue and very repetitious. The reader is told that Feathers & Flair is just around the corner from Ginger's detective office numerous times (and that's not the only fact repeated, just the first that came to mind).
I don't like Ginger working for the Secret Service at this juncture in her life and I can't stand Captain Smithwick. I'm never happy when he makes an appearance, though he does arrive in timely fashion near the end. The solving of the case was just tacked on at the end like an afterthought. And the "Gender Reveal" leaves me wondering and a little disappointed. Is this the last Ginger Gold book? Sure seems like it.
Far too much stilted dialogue and very repetitious. The reader is told that Feathers & Flair is just around the corner from Ginger's detective office numerous times (and that's not the only fact repeated, just the first that came to mind).
I don't like Ginger working for the Secret Service at this juncture in her life and I can't stand Captain Smithwick. I'm never happy when he makes an appearance, though he does arrive in timely fashion near the end. The solving of the case was just tacked on at the end like an afterthought. And the "Gender Reveal" leaves me wondering and a little disappointed. Is this the last Ginger Gold book? Sure seems like it.
January 28, 2020
Murder on Fleet Street by Lee Strauss is the latest book in the Ginger Gold Mysteries and it was a fantastic addition to the series.
Ginger's past service during WWI comes back to haunt her on seveal levels in this story. Ms. Strauss' descriptive writing of Ginger's London world always lures me in and keeps me glued to the pages. A quickly paced plot with several twists that took the story from a murder mystery into the shadowy world of spies and treachery. The final chapter leaves Ginger fans with delightful news that will certainly affect the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
Ginger's past service during WWI comes back to haunt her on seveal levels in this story. Ms. Strauss' descriptive writing of Ginger's London world always lures me in and keeps me glued to the pages. A quickly paced plot with several twists that took the story from a murder mystery into the shadowy world of spies and treachery. The final chapter leaves Ginger fans with delightful news that will certainly affect the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
October 12, 2020
Ginger Gold is a class act. I love Detective Reed but like him in the background of the story. All her stories are 5 stars to me.
June 3, 2021
Another w8nner in the series
I love the Lady Gold mysteries. Great cast, lots of twists, and nice snippets of history. The descriptions of fashion can be distracting, but the pace of the story moves right along. I'm off to snag the next book!
I love the Lady Gold mysteries. Great cast, lots of twists, and nice snippets of history. The descriptions of fashion can be distracting, but the pace of the story moves right along. I'm off to snag the next book!
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August 17, 2021CHAPTER ONE
Mrs. Ginger Reed, also known around the city of London as Lady Gold, loved a good party. And if the official adoption of her son, Scout, wasn’t a fabulous reason to celebrate, then she couldn’t think of what was.
“Isn’t it funny how things turn out?” she said as her husband Basil swept her around the drawing room and they swirled past large portraits which were set off to perfection by the ivory and green art deco wallpaper. A three-piece band had set up in the corner of the large drawing room at Hartigan House, Ginger’s childhood home in South Kensington, and played the spirited notes of jazz.
“I couldn’t be happier,” Basil replied, smiling. His hazel eyes twinkled enough to make Ginger’s heart burst with pride. She’d chosen her rose georgette gown with the sequinned, double-scalloped skirt especially because she knew it was one of his favourites. Her long strand of beads complemented the pearly-white bead trim in the hem, and a dramatic red bow was stitched low on the hipline. She’d pinned back her red bob, newly styled in finger waves that morning, with a delicate hair clip trimmed with rhinestones.
Dancing was a favourite pastime for Ginger and Basil. They’d met officially for the first time on the dance floor of a club on the SS Rosa during a steamship journey from Boston to Liverpool. It was also there where they’d met their son, Scout, who’d worked in the belly of the ship tending to the animals, including in the pet kennel where Ginger’s Boston terrier, Boss, had spent time.
The ballroom at Hartigan House wasn’t as large as those found in some houses, but with the furniture pushed back, it was plenty big enough for a crowd this size.
Felicia, Ginger’s youthful former sister-in-law, also lived at Hartigan House. She danced with a rather attractive constable who worked under Basil in Basil’s position as a chief inspector at Scotland Yard. Mr. Fulton, Scout’s tutor, stood on the sidelines watching wistfully. Felicia, catching the young teacher’s eye, raised a thinly plucked, deeply arched eyebrow and winked. The poor man blushed.
Ginger clucked her tongue. What was she to do with Felicia and her bright-young-thing ways?
Ambrosia, the matriarch of the house, was known publicly as the Dowager Lady Gold. Sitting upright in one of the green velvet wingback chairs, her grey hair was tucked under a feather-rich hat, and her bejewelled fingers clasped her walking stick. Her wrinkled face was stony, showing neither delight nor distaste, but Ginger knew her former grandmother-in-law struggled with Ginger’s decision to adopt what she called a “street urchin”.
However, Hartigan House was her home, and Ambrosia, after making her original objections known, was wise enough to keep her thoughts on the matter to herself.
Scout played with Boss in the corner by the fireplace. He’d put on weight since joining her family and, though small for his age of twelve, had grown at least four inches. Some had wondered aloud, and not so sensitively at that, why Ginger, if she must adopt, hadn’t chosen an infant? Surely, there were plenty of babies around and from better stock?
She couldn’t explain how fate had stepped in. When a heart loves, it simply loves unconditionally.
When the music ended, Ginger approached the drinks trolley manned by her butler, Pippins. Of all the people in the room, Ginger had known Clive Pippins the longest and considered the spry blue-eyed septuagenarian to be more like family than a mere employee.
His cornflower-blue eyes nearly disappeared behind folds of skin as he handed her a glass of champagne with a smile.
“Thank you, Pips,” she said, and glancing back at Basil, added, “Darling?”
Basil stepped in behind her. “Pippins, I’ll have a gin and tonic if you would.”
“Certainly, sir.”
Basil touched Ginger’s elbow then left to join a group of men who’d congregated in one corner and were immersed in what appeared to be a rousing conversation about the stock market.
“Capital, my good fellow,” one said.
And another, “I’m making a fortune hardly lifting a finger.”
Pushing back an underlying sense of fatigue, Ginger joined Ambrosia, who seemed to be having a hard time not looking put out by their neighbour, Mrs. Schofield, who sat in the next chair.
“How serendipitous that the Adoption Act should come into effect just when your granddaughter decided to take in the stable boy.”
Ambrosia’s feathers ruffled.
“He was Georgia’s ward. Not a stable boy.”
Ginger’s lips twitched at the use of her birth name, which Ambrosia often used when addressing her in formal settings or with people she felt were stationed beneath her, such as their inquisitive neighbour. Mrs. Schofield, her white hair knotted on the top of her head in a Victorian-style bun, had a sparkle of mischief in her eye. Ginger was quite certain the elderly lady enjoyed tormenting her friend.
“And now he’s your grandson!”
Ambrosia’s wide blue eyes focused on Mrs. Schofield. “You know full well that Georgia was married to my grandson.”
“Very well,” Mrs. Schofield returned, barely holding on to a chuckle. “Great-grandson.”
“We’re not actually related. As you know.”
“Not by blood, but surely by circumstance?”
Ginger felt a twinge of pity for the dowager. “Champagne, Grandmother? I’ve not touched it yet.”
“Yes, please.” She held out a leathery hand. “Will you join us?” Then she lowered her voice just enough that Mrs. Schofield could still hear, “Before she talks my ear off.”
Ginger bit her lip to hold in a smile and took an empty seat.
Lord and Lady Whitmore, neighbours on Mallowan Court as well, were amongst the guests. Lord Whitmore, a distinguished-looking gentleman in his sixties, and Ginger shared a confidence—they were both involved with the British secret service, though Ginger had stepped out after the war. It was a fact they both pretended to know nothing about, and anyone in the room would likely be shocked if they knew the truth, including all the members of Ginger’s own family.
Lord Whitmore splintered away from his wife, pulled into the grouping of men by the lure of money talk. Lady Whitmore, in her constant effort to hold on to her youth, wore a fashionable turban over short hair. She caught Ginger’s eye and, with the lampshade fringe of her gown brushing her calves, eased over to join the ladies.
“Such a lovely party,” Lady Whitmore said. “The last party I attended was Lady Roth’s birthday party. Were you there? No? Yes, well, don’t feel bad about not being invited. The occasion fell flat in the end. There certainly weren’t any newspapermen present.”
Ginger followed the direction of Lady Whitmore’s gaze and grinned at the sight of Mr. Blake Brown from the Daily News. Wearing a tweed suit over a slight stomach bulge, the wear-line of a hat now removed from thinning hair, and a camera bag strapped over his shoulder, he was rather hard to miss. Ginger had called the Daily News hoping to get a bit of coverage in the social pages. It was a stopgap effort on her part to stop tongues from wagging and to answer, once and for all, the probable awkward questions sure to arise. Though her adoption of Scout Elliot wasn’t exactly scandalous, it was most undoubtedly unorthodox and fodder for eager gossipers.
This was probably why Lord and Lady Whitmore had accepted Ginger’s invitation. The Whitmores weren’t close friends, but living in the immediate vicinity had merited consideration, and Lady Whitmore wasn’t one to miss out on social highlights. This party would give her something to jaw about to her friends for weeks.
Ginger excused herself and greeted the journalist.
“Thank you for coming, Mr. Brown. I know it’s not your usual type of story.”
She and Mr. Brown were acquainted, and though their relationship had started on a rocky footing, Ginger now trusted him—as far as one could trust a reporter.
“Your parties aren’t usually normal parties, Mrs. Reed.”
Ginger fiddled with the long beads around her neck. The last two events Ginger had hosted, and which Mr. Brown had covered, had involved a dead body. She sincerely hoped that wouldn’t be the case tonight.
“I can assure you that I’m doing my best to make sure that everyone leaves here alive.”
Ginger, her T-strap shoes tapping along the wooden floors, gracefully made her way to the grand piano in the corner. After motioning to the band to end their set, she tickled the ivory keys. The room, subconsciously aware of the change, quieted.
“Now that I have your attention.” Basil and Scout glanced at her, and Ginger nodded subtly for them to join her. “I’d like to make a toast. Please, everyone, get your drinks.”
Pippins took the cue and brought over two flutes of champagne, and a glass of ginger beer for Scout.
Once everyone had a drink and faced Ginger, she began, “Thank you, everyone, for joining us as we celebrate the official adoption of our son, Scout.” Ginger placed a hand on Scout’s thin shoulder and felt a twinge of sympathy as he blushed with embarrassment. Scout had grown up on the streets of London, and survival almost always meant remaining invisible and out of sight of the average citizen—ostensibly because it was easier to rob them that way. This party was Ginger and Basil’s attempt to get the facts out before the tabloids could run amok with half-truths and falsehoods.
“We are pleased that the British government has begun to legislate in the matter of adoption, for the sake of both the parents and the children. From here on, Scout will be legally known as Master Samuel Reed and affectionately as Scout.”
Scout was, in fact, the boy’s name given by his natural mother. However, no actual documents reported his birth. Ginger only knew of Scout’s birthday because his cousin, Marvin, currently engaged with the Royal Navy, remembered the date. Samuel was a name she, Scout, and Basil had decided upon together.
As if hunching low would disguise him, minimise the pop of the flash pan, or diminish the smoke left in his wake, Mr. Brown slouched about as he snapped photographs.
Though most people in the room were dear friends or family, or at least comfortable acquaintances, there was a notable absence. Basil’s parents strongly opposed their son and daughter-in-law’s decision to adopt Scout. They found him a threat to the “bloodline” and distribution of family wealth. That was enough for them to have threatened to withhold Basil’s inheritance. When they’d learned that their son had chosen to defy them, they had gone on a trip to recover and work out what it would mean for their future. The last Ginger had heard, they were on a ship headed to South Africa.
Ginger, who’d been unable to conceive, either with her first husband, Daniel, Lord Gold, or with Basil, was just thankful to God that he’d brought Scout into their lives, and that she was now a mother, and they, a family of three.
Basil lifted his glass. “Please join me as we celebrate our good fortune.”
A chorus of “hear, hear” resounded as glasses clinked and then were sipped from.
Scout tugged on Ginger’s arm. “Can me and Boss go to my room now? It’s awful stuffy in here.”
Boss, at Scout’s feet, wagged his stubby tail and panted with his big doggy smile as if he couldn’t agree with Scout’s sentiment more.
“It’s ‘May Boss and I’ and yes, you may.”
Ginger grinned as she watched the boy and dog dodge adult bodies and disappear out of the double doors that opened to the entrance and grand staircase. She gave her empty glass to her maid Lizzie, a young, slight lass with mousy-brown hair tucked into a white maid’s cap and a pixie-like face who cleaned up after the guests with experienced proficiency. Ginger then nodded to the band to strike up again.
“Make it a quick one,” she said.
The introductory notes of “Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue” played, and Ginger grabbed Basil’s hand.
“I love a good Charleston,” she said as her heels snapped backward to the beat. Basil held her in his arms and matched her move for move. Ginger laughed heartily. Happiness like this mustn’t be taken for granted. One never knew what the next day would bring.
Mrs. Ginger Reed, also known around the city of London as Lady Gold, loved a good party. And if the official adoption of her son, Scout, wasn’t a fabulous reason to celebrate, then she couldn’t think of what was.
“Isn’t it funny how things turn out?” she said as her husband Basil swept her around the drawing room and they swirled past large portraits which were set off to perfection by the ivory and green art deco wallpaper. A three-piece band had set up in the corner of the large drawing room at Hartigan House, Ginger’s childhood home in South Kensington, and played the spirited notes of jazz.
“I couldn’t be happier,” Basil replied, smiling. His hazel eyes twinkled enough to make Ginger’s heart burst with pride. She’d chosen her rose georgette gown with the sequinned, double-scalloped skirt especially because she knew it was one of his favourites. Her long strand of beads complemented the pearly-white bead trim in the hem, and a dramatic red bow was stitched low on the hipline. She’d pinned back her red bob, newly styled in finger waves that morning, with a delicate hair clip trimmed with rhinestones.
Dancing was a favourite pastime for Ginger and Basil. They’d met officially for the first time on the dance floor of a club on the SS Rosa during a steamship journey from Boston to Liverpool. It was also there where they’d met their son, Scout, who’d worked in the belly of the ship tending to the animals, including in the pet kennel where Ginger’s Boston terrier, Boss, had spent time.
The ballroom at Hartigan House wasn’t as large as those found in some houses, but with the furniture pushed back, it was plenty big enough for a crowd this size.
Felicia, Ginger’s youthful former sister-in-law, also lived at Hartigan House. She danced with a rather attractive constable who worked under Basil in Basil’s position as a chief inspector at Scotland Yard. Mr. Fulton, Scout’s tutor, stood on the sidelines watching wistfully. Felicia, catching the young teacher’s eye, raised a thinly plucked, deeply arched eyebrow and winked. The poor man blushed.
Ginger clucked her tongue. What was she to do with Felicia and her bright-young-thing ways?
Ambrosia, the matriarch of the house, was known publicly as the Dowager Lady Gold. Sitting upright in one of the green velvet wingback chairs, her grey hair was tucked under a feather-rich hat, and her bejewelled fingers clasped her walking stick. Her wrinkled face was stony, showing neither delight nor distaste, but Ginger knew her former grandmother-in-law struggled with Ginger’s decision to adopt what she called a “street urchin”.
However, Hartigan House was her home, and Ambrosia, after making her original objections known, was wise enough to keep her thoughts on the matter to herself.
Scout played with Boss in the corner by the fireplace. He’d put on weight since joining her family and, though small for his age of twelve, had grown at least four inches. Some had wondered aloud, and not so sensitively at that, why Ginger, if she must adopt, hadn’t chosen an infant? Surely, there were plenty of babies around and from better stock?
She couldn’t explain how fate had stepped in. When a heart loves, it simply loves unconditionally.
When the music ended, Ginger approached the drinks trolley manned by her butler, Pippins. Of all the people in the room, Ginger had known Clive Pippins the longest and considered the spry blue-eyed septuagenarian to be more like family than a mere employee.
His cornflower-blue eyes nearly disappeared behind folds of skin as he handed her a glass of champagne with a smile.
“Thank you, Pips,” she said, and glancing back at Basil, added, “Darling?”
Basil stepped in behind her. “Pippins, I’ll have a gin and tonic if you would.”
“Certainly, sir.”
Basil touched Ginger’s elbow then left to join a group of men who’d congregated in one corner and were immersed in what appeared to be a rousing conversation about the stock market.
“Capital, my good fellow,” one said.
And another, “I’m making a fortune hardly lifting a finger.”
Pushing back an underlying sense of fatigue, Ginger joined Ambrosia, who seemed to be having a hard time not looking put out by their neighbour, Mrs. Schofield, who sat in the next chair.
“How serendipitous that the Adoption Act should come into effect just when your granddaughter decided to take in the stable boy.”
Ambrosia’s feathers ruffled.
“He was Georgia’s ward. Not a stable boy.”
Ginger’s lips twitched at the use of her birth name, which Ambrosia often used when addressing her in formal settings or with people she felt were stationed beneath her, such as their inquisitive neighbour. Mrs. Schofield, her white hair knotted on the top of her head in a Victorian-style bun, had a sparkle of mischief in her eye. Ginger was quite certain the elderly lady enjoyed tormenting her friend.
“And now he’s your grandson!”
Ambrosia’s wide blue eyes focused on Mrs. Schofield. “You know full well that Georgia was married to my grandson.”
“Very well,” Mrs. Schofield returned, barely holding on to a chuckle. “Great-grandson.”
“We’re not actually related. As you know.”
“Not by blood, but surely by circumstance?”
Ginger felt a twinge of pity for the dowager. “Champagne, Grandmother? I’ve not touched it yet.”
“Yes, please.” She held out a leathery hand. “Will you join us?” Then she lowered her voice just enough that Mrs. Schofield could still hear, “Before she talks my ear off.”
Ginger bit her lip to hold in a smile and took an empty seat.
Lord and Lady Whitmore, neighbours on Mallowan Court as well, were amongst the guests. Lord Whitmore, a distinguished-looking gentleman in his sixties, and Ginger shared a confidence—they were both involved with the British secret service, though Ginger had stepped out after the war. It was a fact they both pretended to know nothing about, and anyone in the room would likely be shocked if they knew the truth, including all the members of Ginger’s own family.
Lord Whitmore splintered away from his wife, pulled into the grouping of men by the lure of money talk. Lady Whitmore, in her constant effort to hold on to her youth, wore a fashionable turban over short hair. She caught Ginger’s eye and, with the lampshade fringe of her gown brushing her calves, eased over to join the ladies.
“Such a lovely party,” Lady Whitmore said. “The last party I attended was Lady Roth’s birthday party. Were you there? No? Yes, well, don’t feel bad about not being invited. The occasion fell flat in the end. There certainly weren’t any newspapermen present.”
Ginger followed the direction of Lady Whitmore’s gaze and grinned at the sight of Mr. Blake Brown from the Daily News. Wearing a tweed suit over a slight stomach bulge, the wear-line of a hat now removed from thinning hair, and a camera bag strapped over his shoulder, he was rather hard to miss. Ginger had called the Daily News hoping to get a bit of coverage in the social pages. It was a stopgap effort on her part to stop tongues from wagging and to answer, once and for all, the probable awkward questions sure to arise. Though her adoption of Scout Elliot wasn’t exactly scandalous, it was most undoubtedly unorthodox and fodder for eager gossipers.
This was probably why Lord and Lady Whitmore had accepted Ginger’s invitation. The Whitmores weren’t close friends, but living in the immediate vicinity had merited consideration, and Lady Whitmore wasn’t one to miss out on social highlights. This party would give her something to jaw about to her friends for weeks.
Ginger excused herself and greeted the journalist.
“Thank you for coming, Mr. Brown. I know it’s not your usual type of story.”
She and Mr. Brown were acquainted, and though their relationship had started on a rocky footing, Ginger now trusted him—as far as one could trust a reporter.
“Your parties aren’t usually normal parties, Mrs. Reed.”
Ginger fiddled with the long beads around her neck. The last two events Ginger had hosted, and which Mr. Brown had covered, had involved a dead body. She sincerely hoped that wouldn’t be the case tonight.
“I can assure you that I’m doing my best to make sure that everyone leaves here alive.”
Ginger, her T-strap shoes tapping along the wooden floors, gracefully made her way to the grand piano in the corner. After motioning to the band to end their set, she tickled the ivory keys. The room, subconsciously aware of the change, quieted.
“Now that I have your attention.” Basil and Scout glanced at her, and Ginger nodded subtly for them to join her. “I’d like to make a toast. Please, everyone, get your drinks.”
Pippins took the cue and brought over two flutes of champagne, and a glass of ginger beer for Scout.
Once everyone had a drink and faced Ginger, she began, “Thank you, everyone, for joining us as we celebrate the official adoption of our son, Scout.” Ginger placed a hand on Scout’s thin shoulder and felt a twinge of sympathy as he blushed with embarrassment. Scout had grown up on the streets of London, and survival almost always meant remaining invisible and out of sight of the average citizen—ostensibly because it was easier to rob them that way. This party was Ginger and Basil’s attempt to get the facts out before the tabloids could run amok with half-truths and falsehoods.
“We are pleased that the British government has begun to legislate in the matter of adoption, for the sake of both the parents and the children. From here on, Scout will be legally known as Master Samuel Reed and affectionately as Scout.”
Scout was, in fact, the boy’s name given by his natural mother. However, no actual documents reported his birth. Ginger only knew of Scout’s birthday because his cousin, Marvin, currently engaged with the Royal Navy, remembered the date. Samuel was a name she, Scout, and Basil had decided upon together.
As if hunching low would disguise him, minimise the pop of the flash pan, or diminish the smoke left in his wake, Mr. Brown slouched about as he snapped photographs.
Though most people in the room were dear friends or family, or at least comfortable acquaintances, there was a notable absence. Basil’s parents strongly opposed their son and daughter-in-law’s decision to adopt Scout. They found him a threat to the “bloodline” and distribution of family wealth. That was enough for them to have threatened to withhold Basil’s inheritance. When they’d learned that their son had chosen to defy them, they had gone on a trip to recover and work out what it would mean for their future. The last Ginger had heard, they were on a ship headed to South Africa.
Ginger, who’d been unable to conceive, either with her first husband, Daniel, Lord Gold, or with Basil, was just thankful to God that he’d brought Scout into their lives, and that she was now a mother, and they, a family of three.
Basil lifted his glass. “Please join me as we celebrate our good fortune.”
A chorus of “hear, hear” resounded as glasses clinked and then were sipped from.
Scout tugged on Ginger’s arm. “Can me and Boss go to my room now? It’s awful stuffy in here.”
Boss, at Scout’s feet, wagged his stubby tail and panted with his big doggy smile as if he couldn’t agree with Scout’s sentiment more.
“It’s ‘May Boss and I’ and yes, you may.”
Ginger grinned as she watched the boy and dog dodge adult bodies and disappear out of the double doors that opened to the entrance and grand staircase. She gave her empty glass to her maid Lizzie, a young, slight lass with mousy-brown hair tucked into a white maid’s cap and a pixie-like face who cleaned up after the guests with experienced proficiency. Ginger then nodded to the band to strike up again.
“Make it a quick one,” she said.
The introductory notes of “Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue” played, and Ginger grabbed Basil’s hand.
“I love a good Charleston,” she said as her heels snapped backward to the beat. Basil held her in his arms and matched her move for move. Ginger laughed heartily. Happiness like this mustn’t be taken for granted. One never knew what the next day would bring.
January 26, 2020
A Past Encounter
Murder on Fleet Street has Ginger entangled once again with the British Secret Service with whom she worked during the war. She did not want to get involved but when an agent is murdered she is brought back into service to find his killer and finish his mission to find the Communist Cell.
She is not allowed to tell anyone, not even her husband who is the police inspector. This is most concerning to her as she works with him on cases all the time and doesn’t like keeping secrets from him. It is especially aggravating because it happens during their adoption of the street urchin Scout.
She not only finds herself in a dangerous situation but has put her husband in the face of danger as well. Now she must find a way out and catch the murderer.
A great read as all of Lee’s Strauss’s books are. I loved the dress Ginger wore to the adoption, and I especially loved the ending and the introduction of the new series.
Thanks to Lee Strauss for allowing me to read and review an advance copy of the book.
Murder on Fleet Street has Ginger entangled once again with the British Secret Service with whom she worked during the war. She did not want to get involved but when an agent is murdered she is brought back into service to find his killer and finish his mission to find the Communist Cell.
She is not allowed to tell anyone, not even her husband who is the police inspector. This is most concerning to her as she works with him on cases all the time and doesn’t like keeping secrets from him. It is especially aggravating because it happens during their adoption of the street urchin Scout.
She not only finds herself in a dangerous situation but has put her husband in the face of danger as well. Now she must find a way out and catch the murderer.
A great read as all of Lee’s Strauss’s books are. I loved the dress Ginger wore to the adoption, and I especially loved the ending and the introduction of the new series.
Thanks to Lee Strauss for allowing me to read and review an advance copy of the book.
January 28, 2020
This is the most exciting book yet in the Ginger Gold Series. This time Ginger’s past with the British Secret Service is coming into her current life..
People are dying and Ginger has an idea why but she can’t tell Basil. There are some secrets she can’t reveal to those she loves.
Along the way Scout is adopted by Ginger and Basil and is learning to act as a member of the family and Felicia is having her normal relationship issues
As is her custom in this Series, Lee Strauss has included a social issue into the story. This time it’s the coal strike and how’s people’s lives are being impacted by it.
The end of the book reveals surprises for the future. I can’t wait to read the next book in this Series!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
People are dying and Ginger has an idea why but she can’t tell Basil. There are some secrets she can’t reveal to those she loves.
Along the way Scout is adopted by Ginger and Basil and is learning to act as a member of the family and Felicia is having her normal relationship issues
As is her custom in this Series, Lee Strauss has included a social issue into the story. This time it’s the coal strike and how’s people’s lives are being impacted by it.
The end of the book reveals surprises for the future. I can’t wait to read the next book in this Series!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 10, 2020
A Thrilling Addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery Series
I have thoroughly enjoyed every Ginger Gold book that I have read but I think Murder on Fleet Street is my favourite thus far. The setting, the fashions, the mystery plot and the humour and romance are all delightful. Ginger is the perfect heroine and the villains are suitably dastardly. The supporting characters are wonderfully authentic and relatable. It was especially satisfying to be able to fill in a few blanks from the war years when Ginger was a secret agent. If you are a cosy mystery fan encountering this series for the first time you have a real treat in store.
Read as a free ARC from the author but this review is voluntary and my honest opinion.
I have thoroughly enjoyed every Ginger Gold book that I have read but I think Murder on Fleet Street is my favourite thus far. The setting, the fashions, the mystery plot and the humour and romance are all delightful. Ginger is the perfect heroine and the villains are suitably dastardly. The supporting characters are wonderfully authentic and relatable. It was especially satisfying to be able to fill in a few blanks from the war years when Ginger was a secret agent. If you are a cosy mystery fan encountering this series for the first time you have a real treat in store.
Read as a free ARC from the author but this review is voluntary and my honest opinion.
February 2, 2020
This is one of my favorite series. Every time I start a Ginger Gold book, I'm prepared to curl up on the couch and just keep reading until the end.
This wonderful book weaves in Ginger's past, one that her darling husband does not know about. A mystery woven in with beautiful fashions and lots of love between Ginger and Basil. It kept me guessing right up until the end and oh what an ending it was. I hope Ms. Strauss is already hard at work on the next book in the series!
This book can easily be read as a stand alone, but if you start with this one, please consider going back to the beginning. Each book is just as wonderful.
This wonderful book weaves in Ginger's past, one that her darling husband does not know about. A mystery woven in with beautiful fashions and lots of love between Ginger and Basil. It kept me guessing right up until the end and oh what an ending it was. I hope Ms. Strauss is already hard at work on the next book in the series!
This book can easily be read as a stand alone, but if you start with this one, please consider going back to the beginning. Each book is just as wonderful.
April 2, 2020
Everything is going well for Ginger and Basil. Sprout's adoption is finalized and he's starting to act like a true son. When Scotland Yard is called in because Ginger's elderly neighbor, Lady Whitmore, believes her husband is missing, Ginger never dreams the case will drag her back into the services of the British Secret Service. Lord Whitmore was also a member of the secret service but while Ginger left after the war, Lord Whitmore was still an active agent. Basil isn't too worried about Lord Whitmore at first, he's known to have lady friends, but when they discover Lord Whitmore's lifeless body, there's cause for concern. Basil suspects Lady Whitmore had enough of her husband's philandering but there's little evidence. Ginger worries Lord Whitmore was on a case and was killed because of it. Soon Ginger's old nemesis returns and she's drawn back into the world she thought she'd left behind for good. Her family's safety depends on it.
Although each book COULD stand alone, readers should not start here. Read at least Murder at Feathers & Flair and Murder at Kensington Gardens before reading this one. There are numerous references to things that happened in those books although no spoilers.
The history is interesting. There's a coal miner's strike and the rest of the unions are drawn in. The Bolshevik threat is very real. As a wage worker, my sympathies are with the coal miners and I understand how they might be drawn into Communism. However good the aims of the party, their methods leave much to be desired.
I would have rated this story much higher if Ginger hadn't been so stupid. She forgot all about the vital clue, crashed around and nearly got her family killed. Not to mention something else she fails to recognize. I was really happy to read about what Ginger did during the war and how Daniel died. I disagree with Ginger and think the outcome would have been the same. Basil is kind of stupid too. I understand why he would forget about the clue but I would expect him to have figured out what Ginger did during the war by now! I like how he's opened up a lot and is so amorous towards Ginger. Scout is settling in well. He's starting to act like a true son, complete with rebellion. He still has moments when he's wise beyond his years.
Lord Whitmore is a typical upper class gentleman in terms of his relationship with his wife. He's bored so he seeks physical attention from younger women. He also has a job at a bank. Ginger suspects he may be on an assignment with either or both of those things and that leads to his murder. Lady Whitmore seems shocked at her husband's infidelity. She shouldn't be because apparently it's the worst kept secret in Kensington. I feel sad for her. She reveals something interesting about Lord Whitmore that I wonder if it's true or part of a cover story. I don't think she's a murderer even though she's been wronged. It would cause a scandal and that would not DO. Miss Darby, Lord Whitmore's girlfriend of the moment, is too cheeky. I don't like the way she came on to Basil expecting him to succumb to her advances. Does this mean she's guilty of murder? I don't like her or trust her. She flirts with every man she meets even though she's with Lord Whitmore. Isn't that enough?
Another likely suspect is Mr. Poole, a junior manager at the bank where Lord Whitmore is a senior manager. Mr. Poole wishes he had Lord Whitmore's job. Mr. Poole is a working man who needs the money to support his family. I agree it's not fair but Mr. Poole doesn't know Lord Whitmore is in the secret service and may be on an assignment. Could the murderer be Leo Tipper, a tabloid journalist seen with Miss Darby? Ginger doesn't trust him much. He could have murdered Lord Whitmore in a jealous rage. The caretaker of the building where Miss Darby lives obviously is infatuated with her. He's creepy. Could he have walked in and killed Lord Whitmore?
Maxim Popov, a powerful member of the Bolshevik Revolutionary Party, is believed to be in London. was Lord Whitmore trying to figure out the man's identity? Honestly, it was super obvious and I think anyone could have figured it out.
Captain Francis Smithwick, Ginger's nemesis is back. He pretty much strongarms Ginger into helping him. I didn't like him AT ALL until the very end. When Ginger reveals why she hates him so much, I had some sympathy for him. I think Daniel wouldn't want Ginger to hold on to all that anger. I think Daniel would have done what he had to do to help his country even if it meant death. I was expecting deliberate sabotage or something dastardly. Smitwick was super rude to Ginger, barging into her home, threatening her family and pushing her into spying again so I don't feel too much kindness towards him. Margot Benac, a Russian spy working in Paris, dinged bells for me. I would have made sure of her whereabouts and who she was before doing what Smithwick had Ginger too. Is she a double agent? It's very confusing. Other possible Bolsheviks include the Bronsons, relatives of Ginger's longtime gardener/mechanic. Mr. Bronson, a coal miner, is out of a job and in need of money. Ginger is too nice and compassionate sometimes. I'd check into their backgrounds first before letting them into my house! The Bolsheviks are a little cartoonish in their villainy but are very, very scary. Can't we have equality without killing people?
I still enjoyed the book in spite of the faults. I am hoping for more Ginger Gold mysteries.
Although each book COULD stand alone, readers should not start here. Read at least Murder at Feathers & Flair and Murder at Kensington Gardens before reading this one. There are numerous references to things that happened in those books although no spoilers.
The history is interesting. There's a coal miner's strike and the rest of the unions are drawn in. The Bolshevik threat is very real. As a wage worker, my sympathies are with the coal miners and I understand how they might be drawn into Communism. However good the aims of the party, their methods leave much to be desired.
I would have rated this story much higher if Ginger hadn't been so stupid. She forgot all about the vital clue, crashed around and nearly got her family killed. Not to mention something else she fails to recognize. I was really happy to read about what Ginger did during the war and how Daniel died. I disagree with Ginger and think the outcome would have been the same. Basil is kind of stupid too. I understand why he would forget about the clue but I would expect him to have figured out what Ginger did during the war by now! I like how he's opened up a lot and is so amorous towards Ginger. Scout is settling in well. He's starting to act like a true son, complete with rebellion. He still has moments when he's wise beyond his years.
Lord Whitmore is a typical upper class gentleman in terms of his relationship with his wife. He's bored so he seeks physical attention from younger women. He also has a job at a bank. Ginger suspects he may be on an assignment with either or both of those things and that leads to his murder. Lady Whitmore seems shocked at her husband's infidelity. She shouldn't be because apparently it's the worst kept secret in Kensington. I feel sad for her. She reveals something interesting about Lord Whitmore that I wonder if it's true or part of a cover story. I don't think she's a murderer even though she's been wronged. It would cause a scandal and that would not DO. Miss Darby, Lord Whitmore's girlfriend of the moment, is too cheeky. I don't like the way she came on to Basil expecting him to succumb to her advances. Does this mean she's guilty of murder? I don't like her or trust her. She flirts with every man she meets even though she's with Lord Whitmore. Isn't that enough?
Another likely suspect is Mr. Poole, a junior manager at the bank where Lord Whitmore is a senior manager. Mr. Poole wishes he had Lord Whitmore's job. Mr. Poole is a working man who needs the money to support his family. I agree it's not fair but Mr. Poole doesn't know Lord Whitmore is in the secret service and may be on an assignment. Could the murderer be Leo Tipper, a tabloid journalist seen with Miss Darby? Ginger doesn't trust him much. He could have murdered Lord Whitmore in a jealous rage. The caretaker of the building where Miss Darby lives obviously is infatuated with her. He's creepy. Could he have walked in and killed Lord Whitmore?
Maxim Popov, a powerful member of the Bolshevik Revolutionary Party, is believed to be in London. was Lord Whitmore trying to figure out the man's identity? Honestly, it was super obvious and I think anyone could have figured it out.
Captain Francis Smithwick, Ginger's nemesis is back. He pretty much strongarms Ginger into helping him. I didn't like him AT ALL until the very end. When Ginger reveals why she hates him so much, I had some sympathy for him. I think Daniel wouldn't want Ginger to hold on to all that anger. I think Daniel would have done what he had to do to help his country even if it meant death. I was expecting deliberate sabotage or something dastardly. Smitwick was super rude to Ginger, barging into her home, threatening her family and pushing her into spying again so I don't feel too much kindness towards him. Margot Benac, a Russian spy working in Paris, dinged bells for me. I would have made sure of her whereabouts and who she was before doing what Smithwick had Ginger too. Is she a double agent? It's very confusing. Other possible Bolsheviks include the Bronsons, relatives of Ginger's longtime gardener/mechanic. Mr. Bronson, a coal miner, is out of a job and in need of money. Ginger is too nice and compassionate sometimes. I'd check into their backgrounds first before letting them into my house! The Bolsheviks are a little cartoonish in their villainy but are very, very scary. Can't we have equality without killing people?
I still enjoyed the book in spite of the faults. I am hoping for more Ginger Gold mysteries.
October 28, 2023
“A blasted wireless! What the dickens was that doing in the bathroom?” “Some people like to listen to the BBC while they bathe, sir,” Basil explained.
“Whatever for? Get in, do the job, and get out, I always say. What’s a dashed waste of time to lounge about like that?”
wait till you hear about the bubbles, candles, and mobile phones.
“Whatever for? Get in, do the job, and get out, I always say. What’s a dashed waste of time to lounge about like that?”
wait till you hear about the bubbles, candles, and mobile phones.
January 29, 2020
I love all the Ginger Gold series of 1920s Murder mysteries, but Murder on Fleet Street is simply the best yet. Exciting, intriguing, unexpected - a plot that kept me reading way too late because I just couldn’t put it down. And now I want to start from the beginning and read it all over again!
For those of us who have come to know and love the characters in the Ginger Gold mysteries, the developments here are very satisfying :) And I love the collision of Ginger’s present with her past in the secret service. I enjoy the way the hints and suggestions of previous books (and Ginger’s diary) are revealed more in this book ... but if you hadn’t read any of those, Murder on Fleet Street would still be a hugely entertaining mystery. (Though I’d recommend you do read them all, as they’re brilliant and they just hook you in!)
For those of us who have come to know and love the characters in the Ginger Gold mysteries, the developments here are very satisfying :) And I love the collision of Ginger’s present with her past in the secret service. I enjoy the way the hints and suggestions of previous books (and Ginger’s diary) are revealed more in this book ... but if you hadn’t read any of those, Murder on Fleet Street would still be a hugely entertaining mystery. (Though I’d recommend you do read them all, as they’re brilliant and they just hook you in!)
January 28, 2020
This story gives the reader more information about Lady Gold's past. The storyline is perfect and moves along at a wonderful pace and yet lets the reader absorb the information. Then choices must be made that can change everything that Lady Gold was determined never to do again. Does she or doesn't she? You will need to read the book to find out. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
October 27, 2021
Strauss is phoning it with this one, changing the country her first husband died in, as though no one remembers. You can spot the final "reveal" by the third chapter. The numbering of the books is also absurd.
September 29, 2020
Although I enjoyed this book, I found the protagonist a bit naive for someone who set themself up as a private investigator. The plot proved to be at her predictable.
September 29, 2024
3 stars.
Ginger's Secret Service past has come back to haunt her. When a Lord that she knew from those days were murdered, her ex-boss made her go undercover. She is to infiltrate a secret Communist cell operating in London and discover what plots are being hatched. England's miners are going on strike and the government, and the Crown believe the man's death is linked to the rise of Communism sentiments in the people.
I have a hard time seeing Ginger keeping secrets from her husband Basil, especially as he was having such a difficult time getting any information about the dead Lord/ex-spy. Then there's the problem with Ginger infiltrating that secret Communist meeting with people she's met before. No wonder the perpetrator told her she's lost her touch!
And what happened to Doctor Gupta, the Medical Examiner? Now we have Doctor Wood at the Mortuary instead? I know we've met him before but I don't think there was an explanation for Doctor Gupta's absence?
The finale was climatic and a bit of reparation to Ginger's ex-boss's character. And some good news for the family. So all in all, another solid instalment.
Ginger's Secret Service past has come back to haunt her. When a Lord that she knew from those days were murdered, her ex-boss made her go undercover. She is to infiltrate a secret Communist cell operating in London and discover what plots are being hatched. England's miners are going on strike and the government, and the Crown believe the man's death is linked to the rise of Communism sentiments in the people.
I have a hard time seeing Ginger keeping secrets from her husband Basil, especially as he was having such a difficult time getting any information about the dead Lord/ex-spy. Then there's the problem with Ginger infiltrating that secret Communist meeting with people she's met before. No wonder the perpetrator told her she's lost her touch!
And what happened to Doctor Gupta, the Medical Examiner? Now we have Doctor Wood at the Mortuary instead? I know we've met him before but I don't think there was an explanation for Doctor Gupta's absence?
The finale was climatic and a bit of reparation to Ginger's ex-boss's character. And some good news for the family. So all in all, another solid instalment.
January 16, 2026
We get Spy!Ginger and it did not deliver. Disappointed in how she was made and also I feel like there were some inaccuracies. I'm pretty sure that Ginger told Haley she was a spy last time it came up, but Ginger had a lot less hard of a time spitting it out than she did with Basil here. It was also weird how she was like checking herself out when there was a dead body right next to her.
Honestly, the whole communism thing was odd and out of left field. I also don't like that Ginger's revealed to be pregnant at the end. Why'd we have such a big focus on choosing a child and her infertility if she was just going to get pregnant? Scout is fantastic so I would've rather just had him as their child.
Honestly, the whole communism thing was odd and out of left field. I also don't like that Ginger's revealed to be pregnant at the end. Why'd we have such a big focus on choosing a child and her infertility if she was just going to get pregnant? Scout is fantastic so I would've rather just had him as their child.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2020
The Past Is Not Finished
Ginger’s life has settled into a satisfying groove. Scout is doing well as her adopted son, her businesses are flourishing plus she & Basil are even deeper in love. Enter once again Captain Smithwick who was Ginger’s boss during WWI in France while she was a British agent. Playing on her oath to the secret service & her duty to the Crown, Smithwick presses Ginger to infiltrate a Communist cell. Reluctantly Ginger agrees. When Basil’s investigation into the murder of a Lord gets too close to Ginger’s secret job for the SAS, Ginger must decide if keeping her secrecy oath is worth possibly losing Basil’s love.
Ginger’s life has settled into a satisfying groove. Scout is doing well as her adopted son, her businesses are flourishing plus she & Basil are even deeper in love. Enter once again Captain Smithwick who was Ginger’s boss during WWI in France while she was a British agent. Playing on her oath to the secret service & her duty to the Crown, Smithwick presses Ginger to infiltrate a Communist cell. Reluctantly Ginger agrees. When Basil’s investigation into the murder of a Lord gets too close to Ginger’s secret job for the SAS, Ginger must decide if keeping her secrecy oath is worth possibly losing Basil’s love.
March 13, 2020
1920s London murder mysteries
I have now read all the Ginger Gold mysteries and highly recommend this series . The details of the 1920s add to the interest; it was a time when the aristocracy was changing, as well as the rolls of women. Ginger Gold evolves from being a war widow in the first books, to joining Chief Inspector Basil Reed on murder investigations, to becoming Mrs. Reed. The only thing that would make the books better for me would be pictures of the glorious costumes described in great detail. I also enjoy this series because the language is clean and the sex is left to the readers imagination.
I have now read all the Ginger Gold mysteries and highly recommend this series . The details of the 1920s add to the interest; it was a time when the aristocracy was changing, as well as the rolls of women. Ginger Gold evolves from being a war widow in the first books, to joining Chief Inspector Basil Reed on murder investigations, to becoming Mrs. Reed. The only thing that would make the books better for me would be pictures of the glorious costumes described in great detail. I also enjoy this series because the language is clean and the sex is left to the readers imagination.
September 12, 2020
Great books
From the first book of this series, A Ginger Gold’s mysteries, I have enjoyed everyone of them. This is book 12 and each has historical items mentioned that make me smile ( like the kinds of phones used or changes in hem lengths). During the COVID-19 pandemic and being isolated for much of my time, these books have taken me to a different place, have kept me interested trying to figure out who the killer is, and wanting to read the next book in series right away.
Thanks to the author, Lee Strauss, for her great work. :)
I’m also looking forward to reading some of her other series.
From the first book of this series, A Ginger Gold’s mysteries, I have enjoyed everyone of them. This is book 12 and each has historical items mentioned that make me smile ( like the kinds of phones used or changes in hem lengths). During the COVID-19 pandemic and being isolated for much of my time, these books have taken me to a different place, have kept me interested trying to figure out who the killer is, and wanting to read the next book in series right away.
Thanks to the author, Lee Strauss, for her great work. :)
I’m also looking forward to reading some of her other series.
February 1, 2020
Murder, Bolsheviks, & Intrigue
I was delighted to rejoin Lady Ginger Gold, now Mrs. Basil Reed and her family, fo!lowing her through more investigation and mystery surrounding the murder of a lord at the time of Communist rabble-rousing and strikes, as well as the reappearance of a decidedly unwelcome man from her past. As always the characters are real and fascinating and the mysteries intriguing. The resolution to the entire story is surprising and satisfying, ending with wonderful news and a tease of stories to come.
I was delighted to rejoin Lady Ginger Gold, now Mrs. Basil Reed and her family, fo!lowing her through more investigation and mystery surrounding the murder of a lord at the time of Communist rabble-rousing and strikes, as well as the reappearance of a decidedly unwelcome man from her past. As always the characters are real and fascinating and the mysteries intriguing. The resolution to the entire story is surprising and satisfying, ending with wonderful news and a tease of stories to come.
March 10, 2020
Last book in the series so far...can hardly wait for the next! Really enjoy this series of Ginger Gold cozies. Since I've read them all and in order, I've become familiar with the antics and endeavors of the main characters--Ginger, the intrepid wife, mother, entrepreneur and sleuth, Basil, debonair Scotland Yard detective, and a houseful of relatives and household staff. I appreciate that these stories parallel worldwide events of the early 1920's--WWI, rising hemlines, prohibition, social engineering--smatterings woven throughout the story lines.
November 2, 2020
Full of intrigue and delight
I enjoyed this book so much. I had a suspicion early on about how the book would end and I was delighted to find out I was correct, but I won’t spoil it by giving a clue. You’ll just have to read the book to find out for yourself. This book took a bit of a different direction than usual with Ginger being called back into service to her government. So there was the usual murder mystery and then the story of Ginger’s secret life. It is such a good book. I hope you take the time to read it.
I enjoyed this book so much. I had a suspicion early on about how the book would end and I was delighted to find out I was correct, but I won’t spoil it by giving a clue. You’ll just have to read the book to find out for yourself. This book took a bit of a different direction than usual with Ginger being called back into service to her government. So there was the usual murder mystery and then the story of Ginger’s secret life. It is such a good book. I hope you take the time to read it.
February 11, 2020
Excellent!
Basil and Ginger have a party to celebrate their adoption of Scout as their legal son. After this , everything seems to fall apart. Basil is working to solve the murder of a peer, who was Secret Service, while Ginger gets pulled back into undercover work for the Secret Service. It is May, 1926, so England is dealing with strikes, social unrest, rise of Communism, and lack of work!
Basil and Ginger have a party to celebrate their adoption of Scout as their legal son. After this , everything seems to fall apart. Basil is working to solve the murder of a peer, who was Secret Service, while Ginger gets pulled back into undercover work for the Secret Service. It is May, 1926, so England is dealing with strikes, social unrest, rise of Communism, and lack of work!
March 4, 2022
This is the 12th and final book of this particular Lee Strauss series. This was a gift from my husband and normally I do not read mysteries or books from the WWI era but I found the series to be entertaining and usually each book resulted in becoming a page turner. . All 12 books were quick, easy, books to read in between other era books. They were too similar to read consecutively but as a light care free read in between others it worked.
September 24, 2022
Perfectly done!
This was one of the Ginger Gold novels yet! A lot of things came full circle and brought relief to several areas of tension while still managing to entertain and bring historical/political issues that arose at the time. I really like how there is still sizzle between the couple AFTER they get married. Perfect example of how to do a long series with a couple. Five stars all around!
This was one of the Ginger Gold novels yet! A lot of things came full circle and brought relief to several areas of tension while still managing to entertain and bring historical/political issues that arose at the time. I really like how there is still sizzle between the couple AFTER they get married. Perfect example of how to do a long series with a couple. Five stars all around!
September 20, 2025
Always a fun quick read. Lee Strauss keeps you on your toes as Lady Gold (aka Mrs. Reed) and Chief Inspector Reed work independently and together to find the culprit who have murdered a Lord of Parliament. Always following the historical facts of what was happening in London during the time of the tale, and with all the small details of latest fashion highlighted, Lee Strauss again weaves a tale of intrigue with wit and wisdom.
February 11, 2020
Love the Ginger Gold mysteries
This was another good Ginger Gold mystery. I love the characters and the setting. And of course all the fashion references. Can't wait for the next book in the series. In the meantime I have the first Rosa Reed mystery to read. Plus the next Higgins and Hawke mystery.
This was another good Ginger Gold mystery. I love the characters and the setting. And of course all the fashion references. Can't wait for the next book in the series. In the meantime I have the first Rosa Reed mystery to read. Plus the next Higgins and Hawke mystery.
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