Murder on Eaton Square

Ginger Gold Mystery #10

by Lee Strauss

Murder’s Bad Karma. . .

Life couldn’t be better on Eaton Square Gardens where the most prestigious families lived, until one of their own dies and it’s murder.

Ginger and Basil are on the case, but it’s not a simple glass of bubbly fizz. The more the clues present themselves, the trickier the puzzle gets, and Ginger feels she’s on a wild goose chase.

But as someone close to the victim so aptly quips, “One shouldn’t commit murder. It’s bad karma.” 

Reaping what one sows is hardly a great cup of tea.

~

Clean read: no graphic violence, sex, or strong language.

Genre: dog cozy mystery series / historical mystery / women amateur sleuth / British detective mystery

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)

~more coming soon!

Genres: Mystery, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Historical Mystery, Fiction, Historical

270 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2019

About the author

For 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

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ginger and Basil have received an invitation to an exclusive party at the home of Reginald Peck. They rub elbows with many rich and famous people at the party. At breakfast the next morning, the morning headlines read that Mr. Peck is dead. Everyone knows Mr. Peck had a bad heart. But an autopsy shows he had been poisoned. With a family at odds over who will inherit Peck's fortune, Basil and Ginger investigate the murder.

This was a good addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery series. Ginger and her husband, Chief Inspector Basil Reed, interview each member of the household and dig into each of their alibis. Along with the murder, Ginger and Basil receive a visit from his parents who are back in England. When the parents learn that Ginger and Basil are planning on adopting their ward, Scout, Basil's parents are not thrilled with the news. My rating: 4 Stars.

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder on Eaton Square by Lee Strauss was another engaging cozy historical mystery that kept me turning the pages.

Ginger and Basil become involved in a suspicious death that has occurred at a mansion on Eaton Square that they had just visited the previous evening during a fund raiser for injured soldiers. The plot moved quickly and the suspects all seemed to have motive, means and opportunity. There was also an appearance of Basil's parents in this book. They are typical aristocracy of the time in their attitudes which disappointed me but was not surprising. The twists to this story kept me turning the pages and the double twist at the end left me speechless. Well done, Ms. Strauss!

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ginger and Basil are settled into the rhythm of married life. Their biggest challenge is yet to come- a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Reed! Ginger is still coming to terms with her desire for motherhood and what that means for Scout but none of her problems stop her from working. Ginger and Basil are invited to a posh charity event at a home on Eaton Square. They witness tension between the hostess, Mr. Peck and her husband and also between the children. Even so, Ginger and Basil never dream of what the next morning's papers would announce- the death of Mr. Peck! A wealthy businessman and very ill, his death seems like it should have been from natural causes but Mr. Peck's solicitor requests a postmortum. Basil and Ginger begin investigating right away. It proves to be difficult when they sense everyone is lying. Can Ginger figure out the clues that will lead Scotland Yard to the killer? Can she please her in-laws and will Scout ever accept her as his Mum?

This story gets off to a rather slow start introducing the new characters and setting up the story. It seemed pretty obvious to me who the killer was but a shocking plot twist changed my mind and the big reveal was a huge surprise. I really liked the unique solution to the murder. I also liked how the author shows the realities of the men who returned home from the war with what they called shell shock, a condition we identify today as post-traumatic stress disorder. Some of the story really reminded me of Downton Abbey, which isn't a bad thing I suppose but it could have been more original.

I also thought the subplots didn't really make a lot of sense. If Basil's parents are so eccentric why are they dead set against Ginger wanting to adopt Scout? This attitude was prevalent at the time but the Reeds are unconventional. Plus Basil works for a living and Ginger does too and has her own fortune so why would they panic at the idea of being cut off from the Reeds' fortune? That makes no sense. I'm not sure I agree with Ginger's decision to adopt Scout as her son. Can he really accept the life of a gentleman after being on his own for so long? I don't think so. If he were younger, probably. At 12, he doesn't know how to play and he's happiest cleaning the stables and taking care of Boss. Perhaps he'll follow Basil into the police force. I don't see him being a businessman like Ginger's father and I don't see him being an idle gentleman either.

I like the way Ginger and Basil work together to solve crimes now. She oozes charm at people and they open right up while he puts on his tough cop face and makes people get to the point. Felicia is as spoiled and annoying as ever. I had hoped she had matured a bit now she's found a useful outlet for her mind. Ambrosia isn't in the story much. Her role is taken by Basil's parents who are just as stuffy and rude. They're not likable for all their modern eccentricities.

The Peck family are at the center of the murders. Mr. Reginald Peck, the patriarch, is a wealthy businessman confined to a wheeled chair because of poor health. He has a much younger wife who enjoys socializing more than he does and this seems to make him unhappy. SO WHY did he marry her in the first place? Mrs. Virginia Peck is young, lively and the outsider of the bunch. It's clear early on in the investigation this is a dysfunctional family. I don't think either Mr. or Mr. Peck is all that sympathetic. He's a good man in terms of business so why can't he treat his blood family the same way? Son Matthew returned from the war with shell shock. He is truly a tragic character as this condition doesn't seem to be understood by anyone in the family. They don't even seem to recognize it at all. I wonder what he was like before the war? Was he always edgy and angry at his father's old-fashioned business practices? As a reader from the future, I wanted to yell at him to listen to his father and NOT put all his money in the stock market but of course in 1925 they had no idea what was to come. Ginger and Basil seem unsympathetic too and consider Matthew a suspect. Much better suspects include Matthew's sister Deidre and her husband Mr. Alastair "Arjun" Norcott, a quirky character who thinks he's an Indian guru. Ummm OK.... He is super weird and also lazy. He spends his time meditating and then has the nerve to complain they don't have enough money to afford their own house. Deidre doesn't seem to like him much. She's a tough nut and hard to like because of her abrasive personality.

Mrs. Peck has a visitor, Mr. Cyril Wilding, whom the family has never heard of before yet she claims is an old family friend. Naturally everyone assumes he's her lover and that's why he hasn't had any interaction with the family. He doesn't have any personality. He doesn't seem like a lover or fortune hunter but what else is he doing mooching off the Pecks? Mrs. McCullough, the housekeeper, is a cranky sort but she knows how to do her job well and how to tell the police just what they need to know. I don't think Basil trusts her but I don't think she's a killer. Murray, the butler who brings tea to Mr. Peck every evening is certainly a suspect too. They spend a lot of time together in the conservatory too. Mr. Winthrop, the solicitor, is about the only good character involved in this whole mess.

I really enjoy this series and recommend it to fans of Downton Abbey and Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. This mystery stands alone but it's better to read about the development of Ginger's personal relationships from the early books.

[Abbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely Ginger Reed!

So excited to catch up with the newlyweds on another adventure. Devoured this story like a candy bar and ready for more!

[Jennifer Eccles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like vintage champagne, this fabulous Ginger Gold series just keeps getting better!

I can’t believe we’re already on the 10th book in the series - and that’s not including extras like the Wedding (book 7.5) and the novellas Lady Gold Investigates.

Lee Strauss has brilliantly created a world I entirely believe in - with characters who live and breathe, and a 1920s setting I can perfectly visualise because of the beautiful descriptions. Every new book that comes out, I'm back there: rooting for my fictional friends, basking in the period detail and revelling in the twisty turny clever murder mystery plots!

Murder on Eaton Square brings together all these elements I love so well and delivers another gorgeous, clever cosy mystery. I don’t want to give away the plot (you can read the blurb if you want that - I prefer to be surprised!) - but suffice to say if you’re already a fan, you’ll love this. And if this is your first Ginger Gold then you have the biggest treat in store :) You can jump in and start here - but do read the others! There’s such a charm in discovering the main characters and how they develop, and being reintroduced to much-loved secondary characters as they’re woven into different stories. And each mystery plot is clever- they catch me out every time!

Love love love this book, and the whole series!

[Heatherinblack · Rating 3 out of 5]

a bit blah

even the “drama” thrown in seemed a little flat. that is what happens when the love interests actually marry. did enjoy the devious twist, but still overall not that exciting.

[Laura Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable mystery featuring Ginger Gold. I love the characters in this series and enjoy Ginger's interaction with everyone (Haley, when she was around, Basil, Felicia, Oliver, even Ambrosia) with one exception. The scenes between Ginger and Scout feel very forced. Scout's awkwardness comes through well, but anytime Lee Strauss attempts a motherly interaction from Ginger everything just feels off somehow. That said, I still want to see her and Basil adopt Scout. Maybe the interaction between Ginger and Scout will improve with time.

The mystery in "Murder on Eaton Square" was wonderful. Loved the twist at the end. Very well done.

[Kelly Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

This installment of Ginger's adventures will keep you guessing right up until the end! Well written and fast paced, the mystery in high society is framed within some family drama as well, as Basil's parents arrive.
Many seeds are planted in this book for future developments and I look forward to continuing to read the series.

[Tricia Di · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read in between a longer read. Enjoyable

[Lee Strauss]

CHAPTER ONE

Mrs. Ginger Reed, alias Lady Gold, had reserved a box at the London Playhouse Theatre for her family, who now, mingling with anticipation and glasses of champagne in hand, waited for the signal that the production of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet was about to begin.

“I never grow tired of living in London!” Felicia Gold said. Felicia, Ginger’s exuberant and très modern former sister-in-law, was the sister of Ginger’s late husband, Daniel, Lord Gold, and what Ginger’s American counterparts would now, in the year 1925, call a super-flapper. Indeed, Felicia looked the epitome of the icon in a beaded, sleeveless frock with a lantern fringe that barely landed mid-shin. Her glossy auburn bob was pressed down with a glittering headband to which a large feather was attached. “My darling, Ginger,” Felicia went on. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for rescuing me from dull country living!”

“I quite miss the quiet of the country,” said Ginger’s former grandmother, the Dowager Lady Gold. “Young people at least had manners and knew their place in proper society.” She scowled at Felicia’s outfit and the bare skin shown, but refrained from speaking out her displeasure at Felicia’s flagrant display in the presence of strangers who could possibly overhear. Ambrosia had tried to enter the twentieth century by having her long hair cut into a short shingle, but her spirit hadn’t quite made it over. “My heart is rather broken over the loss of Bray Manor.”

“Oh bosh, Grandmama,” Felicia said, brightly. “I fear that your loss is my gain.”

Ginger pulled on her husband’s arm, subtly separating the two Gold ladies. Chief Inspector Basil Reed’s mouth twitched, and his handsome hazel eyes glinted in amusement. Ginger was glad to see Basil found the situation humorous.

“I don’t think I’ve had a chance to say it before now,” he said, “but you are a sight of loveliness.”

Ginger felt the weight of the tiara she wore on her head—red hair in a stylish marcelled bob—which went perfectly with her sequin-covered gown.

“Thank you, love,” Ginger said, but before she could return the compliment, their attention was captured by the group occupying the box next to them.

“I wish I’d stayed at home.” The voice belonged to a gruff-sounding gentleman in a wheelchair. “I can’t stand theatre.”

“Why did you come then?” An attractive woman in her forties shot the man a disparaging look.

“Because you’d never let me hear the end of it if I didn’t. You and your endless social engagements! You’re going to put me in the grave before God is through with me.”

Basil whispered into Ginger’s ear. “That’s Mr. Reginald Peck and his second wife, Mrs. Virginia Peck.”

“Of Eaton Square?” Ginger said. “We’re attending a gala at their house tomorrow evening.”

“Which would explain Mr. Peck’s complaint.”

“And the others with them?”

“They are his children by his first wife. The young man dressed in that fine suit is his son, Matthew, and the young lady is his daughter, Mrs. Deirdre Northcott.”

The two siblings were dressed as one might do for a night at the theatre, similarly to their father and stepmother, in a fine suit and a gorgeous evening gown.

“Who’s the other fellow?” A third man was dressed as if he were a visiting dignitary from India, in a brown satin pyjama-style kurta. However, the pale tones of his skin and hair belied Indian ethnicity.

“That is the son-in-law, Alistair Northcott.”

“How eclectic,” Ginger said. “I suppose we shouldn’t be rude and not greet them. I would like the hosts to recognise me when we show up at their gala.”

Basil led Ginger by her elbow to the end of their box that joined with the Peck family’s. Virginia Peck spotted them and made strides to greet them. Ginger, an expert in all the top fashion designers, recognised the Elsa Schiaparelli gown immediately.

“Good evening,” Mrs. Peck said. “It’s Mr. Basil Reed, is it not?”

“Indeed,” Basil said.

Before Basil could introduce Ginger, Mrs. Peck continued, “I’ve met your parents, Mr. Reed. They share mutual friends with my husband, Reginald.” Her eyes darted to the man in the wheelchair, positioned at the opposite end to where Mrs. Peck had sat. Mr. Matthew Peck and Mr. and Mrs. Northcott sat in the chairs between them.

“I hear they’re back in the city,” Mrs. Peck said. “Such adventurers!”

“Indeed, they are,” Basil said.

“I quite envy them.”

“Yes,” Basil shifted and changed the subject. “May I introduce my wife, Ginger Reed?”

Mrs. Peck finally looked Ginger in the eye and offered a tired smile. “Forgive me. I do get carried away at times. How do you do?”

“Very well, thank you,” Ginger said. “We received an invitation to your gala and I saw I had a unique opportunity to make your acquaintance beforehand.”

“I host the gala every year to raise funds for our injured servicemen. Our own Matthew was injured in the fighting. She cast a glance at her stepson and lowered her voice. “He’s never been quite the same since returning, I’m afraid. But let’s not be solemn on such a fabulous evening. I’m delighted you can make it tomorrow, and I look forward to seeing you again.”

The lights dimmed signalling the production was about to begin.

“Enjoy the show, Mrs. Peck,” Basil said.

“Likewise.”

Once they were seated, Ginger spoke softly, “She seems lovely, though I get the feeling she’s not very happy.”

“I don’t think Reginald Peck is the easiest fellow to live with. He’s had ongoing health problems. I’m dreadfully sorry to see he’s ended up in a wheelchair.”

“A house on Eaton Square—he must be a very wealthy man.”

“Oh yes. He built his wealth buying and selling property and is apparently quite savvy with the stock market.”

The curtains parted, and Ginger, along with a myriad of other spectators, lifted a small set of viewing glasses to her eyes. It just so happened that the angle allowed her a quick study of the intriguing family in the box next door. Everyone’s eyes were on the stage except for Mr. Matthew Peck’s. He was most definitely glaring at his brother-in-law—or was he staring at his father? Mr. Reginald Peck and Mr. Northcott were seated side by side. At any rate, if looks could kill. Ginger shivered and focused on the action on stage, quite determined to mind her own business.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've enjoyed all the books in the series, even though I wasn't impressed with the mystery component of one of the early installments (#3 or #4, I don't recall now). But THIS installment was grand. I'm so pleased with myself for having figured out half of the mystery fairly early on, but the other half got me. This is my favourite thus far.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder on Eaton Square is just as fun and interesting as all of the other Ginger Gold books. Love Ginger and Basil as the beginnings of their clan. Dress shops and detective agencies seem to go hand in hand with the two of them. Can't wait for book 11 to come out.

[Torrie Tovar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't going to be much of a review because you all already know I love this series.

It isn't profound and thought-provoking but they are quick and entertaining. They never disappoint.

If you're looking for something fun then this cozy historical mystery is a great read.

[Kelvin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like this series in general. I think they are a solid three and a half rating on average. This one the whodunnit for me was just not as interesting as in some of the others.

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up

Ginger and Basil are invited to a dinner party at the home of Reginald Peck and his wife who reside on Eaton Square, where only the most prestigious families live. The next morning, while reading the paper over breakfast, they discover Mr. Peck has died. They're a little shocked because they were with him the night before, but not completely surprised because he wasn't in good health and it was well known that he had a heart condition. But Basil soon discovers Mr. Peck's death wasn't related to his heart condition--he was poisoned!!

The Peck family--Reginald, his much younger second wife Virginia, his children from his deceased first wife--son Matthew and married daughter Deirdre Northcott, and her husband Alistair Northcott-- are wealthy but severely disfunctional. All of them had opportunity and most of them had a motive for wanting the crotchety old man dead. The more clues they find, the more confused it gets, especially when someone else in the family turns up dead.

Not only are Ginger and Basil trying to solve a murder(s), Basil's parents are back from their travels and are coming to dinner. It will be the first time Ginger and the elder Mr. and Mrs. Reed meet. Poor Ginger's going to wear out her t-strap shoes chasing down clues and making sure things are perfect for dinner with the Reeds.

Felicia, Ginger's sister-in-law, is still working at Lady Gold Investigations and talked Ginger into letting her take a minor case. That case, and Felicia's lousy camera skills led to one of the clues. It was fun to see Felicia do something in the office. We also get an update on Ginger and Basil's adoption of Scout.

I was not happy with Basil's parents at all! They're still of the old school and division of classes so they don't want Basil and Ginger to adopt Scout--how will it look?!! And they threaten to cut Basil out of their will, not that Basil and Ginger need their money.

I could not figure out who killed the old man--so many suspects all living in the same house. Was it the son Matthew, who hasn't been the same since serving in the war? What about the son-in-law that no one in the family likes? I certainly did not see the twist in the end coming. Again, I enjoy seeing how well Ginger and Basil work together to solve the murder, and reading all the wonderful descriptions. I find it hilarious that Ginger can't figure out why other motorists are upset when she has no issue with the road. There was a reason Hailey didn't like riding with Ginger. LOL

I listened to an audiobook of this from my library through the Hoopla app. I love the narrator.

[Jean Curran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder on Eaton Square: a cozy historical 1920s mystery (A Ginger Gold Mystery Book 10)
Jean Curran
Another Must Read from Lee Strauss
August 21, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
The captivating Ginger Gold stars in another classic cozy mystery. In addition to the mystery which needs to be solved there are subplots in which we learn more about the social norms and expectations of the day...particularly with regard to subjects such as a woman's place both at home and in business and how adoption was viewed. We also get to know more about Ginger's personal life, the challenges she faces and the desires of her heart. These glimpses bring her to life and add depth to the portrayal of her character. She is not merely a protagonist whose presence is a vehicle to carry forward the solving of a mystery but a strong, yet vulnerable woman whose story is still unfolding and we are drawn into that story. Vividly portrayed supporting characters add further depth to the story.
The twists and turns of this murder case will take one on a dizzying journey as the spotlight of suspicion falls first on one character, then another...and yet another until the complex denouement is reached.
This story is likely to be particularly enjoyed by fans of cozy mysteries set in earlier eras, featuring the fashions of a bygone age whilst dog lovers will enjoy the escapades of Boss the Boston Terrier.
I read this book as a free ARC but my review is voluntary and is my own honest opinion

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lee Strauss has hit another home run with book number 10 in this period cozy mystery series! Ginger and Basil are happily married and since he is a detective and she runs a private investigations business in addition to her dress shop they work well together to solve crimes and Lee has developed their characters so nicely that you come to really like them and root for them. When Ginger and Basil are invited to a fund raiser at a mansion on Eaton Square, they find all isn't as it should be with that family. But when they find the master of the house is murdered...poisoned, Basil and Ginger are on the case. There are so many twists and turns and strange occurrences you just can't put the book down and you must read it to the end to find out who the murderer really is. Add to the murders Basil's parents are coming to town to meet Ginger his wife for the first time. A lot of monkey wrenches are thrown in on this one! I love this series and there are so many ways the series can go with so many possibilities that I can't wait for the next one episode of Ginger and Basil. I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Heather Belleguelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so happy that now Ginger and Basil are married they’re continuing to work together, and are in fact working even more closely together, in solving London’s murders. This mystery is a tricky one for the husband and wife, but with Felicia now working as Ginger’s assistant in her new investigation business, Ginger has even more sleuthing resources at her disposal. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity of seeing Felicia grow up and develop in her new role. Throw in the rather interesting and dysfunctional family of the wealthy murder victim, as well as various elements of Ginger and Basil’s personal lives, and there’s plenty here to keep a reader’s interest. I always enjoy how the stories of the regular characters intertwine with those involved in the murder mystery, and this plot is particularly poignant in that regard. I can recommend this book as another good addition to the series. And Mrs Strauss has left clues that there are more books to come, so watch this space!

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All the above opinions are my own.

[Roxx Tarantini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite the twist!

You know what's better than finding a new-to-you mystery series that you love? Finding that there are multiple volumes, easily accessible; ready for binge-reading!

In another review, I mentioned that Ginger Gold was reminiscent of another 1920s high society sleuth that I love. She is. Though the trajectory of her life eventually takes a slightly different turn, that's no reflection on how invested you remain with the characters and their stories. Strauss manages to weave murder and mayhem in equal measure with history and compassion plus romance. A great series that I'm thoroughly enjoying.

Now, you'll excuse me as I settle in for volume 11.

BTW - there's a spin-off series I'll be burying myself under soon as well. Look for Higgins & Hawke Mysteries, I can guarantee you'll love them!

[Shirley McAllister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Ginger Gold mystery by Lee Strauss. Her books are always good. I know when I start the book it will be a great read.
As usual, the characters were great and it was a page turner to the end. I loved the dresses for the charity event. I like her and scout, I hope the mother in law doesn't cause any more trouble for them, but I will bet it's not over yet. Boss is the boss....he's some dog. I loved that Basil stuck up for Ginger and Scout and not his mother. I never guessed the ending at all, I thought the murderer was a completely different person than it was, kept me guessing until the end.

I like reading Lee's mysteries because they are clean and fun to read. I would recommend this book.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ginger Gold series gets better and better with each new installment which is saying a lot since I loved them all. In this mystery Basil and Ginger become involved in solving the murder of a wealthy man on Eaton square. A dysfunctional family, lots of money and accusations presents a slew of suspects. There isn't a lot to go on leading to a surprise Shakespeare-like ending. Ginger also has a lot happening on the home front-mostly involving Scout and Basil's parents who she has met for the first time. Ms. Strauss creates the perfect balance between the mystery and Ginger's personal life. Another great read- quick, fun, and unique. I always look froward to spending time in Ginger's world and highly recommend this series.

[Paraphrodite · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars.

A rich man died from poison, leaving a very dysfunctional family including a second wife, her illegitimate son, a son and a daughter from his first marriage. The son is suffering from PTSD and the daughter is married to a man who practices Indian mysticism. And whilst Basil and Ginger are still trying to figure out who could be the killer, the wife is also found dead from poison.

One of the main elements of this book was the visit by Basil's parents and their disapproval of Ginger's intention to adopt Scout. It really highlighted the class snobbery that existed in English society at the time and I think still persists to this day.

I did enjoy the surprising revelation of the murder mystery though.

[Helen Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ginger Gold Mystery Series is one of my favorites. If possible, the books keep getting better! The murder mystery was complex with a surprise ending I did not see coming. There were a large number of suspects, primarily the dysfunctional family members.

Ginger and Basil are in the process of adopting Scout which is leading to a number of mixed feelings by other members of their families, the staff, and Scout himself. To complicate matters further, Basil’s parents return from abroad and finally meet Ginger. They are definitely against the possible adoption.

As always the development of the characters and the rich descriptions add so much to the story. I can hardly wait to read the next installment in this series!

[Bonita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truth is stranger than fiction!!
What a tangled mystery we have at Eaton Square!
Basil and Ginger once again delve into a confused family estate of mystery and murder!
With family suspects, turning against each other, a conservatory of exotic plants, and nobody trusting one another, this fast paced tale, will keep you turning pages, just to find out who will blame who, in this great cozy.
The final outcome will astound!!
I would highly recommend this book, as in any of Lee's different series, because she has the knack of putting together great stories!!
I can not wait for the next book!!!

[Brigitte · Rating 3 out of 5]

In Murder on Eaton Square, Ginger and Basil once again must navigate through a host of colourful characters to find a killer, while balancing their personal and professional relationships. Another comfortable installment in the Ginger Gold series, this particular book seems lackluster and formulaic when compared to some of the earlier books in the series. The secondary regular characters seem sorely underused and the arrival of Basil's parents seems like unnecessarily manufactured drama. Overall a pleasant read but not one that makes me excited for the next book in the series.

[J Shu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Basil and Ginger attend a party at the Peck residence on Eaton Square. By the next morning, Mr. Peck is dead, and his death, although expected to be soon, was brought about by poison. His present wife, Virginia, plus his war-damaged son, Matthew, and his daughter and son-in-law are all considered suspects. To add intrigue, a guest at the residence is found to be Virginia's biological son. Virginia suddenly dies of poisoning, too. Who is/are the murder(s)? Can Ginger and Basil adopt Scout without repercussions from Basil's parents? Good read.

[Marcia Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

As Ginger Reed, formerly Lady Gold, juggles her elite dress shop, her investigator business and helping her husband, Inspector Basil Reed of Scotland Yard she must reevaluate her plans to adopt her ward Scout, a former street orphan. Basil’s parents arrive and do not approve of the plan.
This installment in the series furthers all the relationships in Ginger’s extended family. The murder investigation seems to be on the periphery of the story until a surprise twist at the end, for which I gave the book a “4”.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series

I am working my way through the older books in this series. They are fast paced, gently humourous, and clever. I enjoy the relationship developments in particular. It's not just about Ginger and Basil. Equal attention is given to relationships with Ambrosia and Felicia, with Scout, and with the staff. The little tidbits about adoption and society's attitudes about it were fascinating to me.

I won't spoil the story - I will just say that this is one of my favourite series, and I highly recommend it.

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book in the Ginger Gold series. I love the relationship between Ginger and her new husband.

Eaton Square is where the privileged people live but even they’re not immune to murder. As Scotland Yard works to solve the murder so does Lady Gold Investigations. As Ginger digs deep into the lives of the victims family she is also dealing with in-law issues but Basils support sees her through.

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily am providing a review.

[Teri Donaldson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I finish a book by Lee Strauss, I always think that it can’t get any better. Then the next book is written and it does.
As with all of Lee’s books, this is absolutely fabulous. Ginger and Basil are a delightful couple, working together to solve murders. This one kept me guessing until the end. The twists and turns were unique and when finally settled and solved, I was was stunned. Pure brilliance with the plot!