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A Lady Thea Mystery #1
Murder on the Flying Scotsman
As the 1910 London Season comes to an end, it’s time for Lady Theodora Prescott-Pryce’s annual pilgrimage to visit her cousins in Scotland. Accompanied by only her maid, Molly, she thinks she’s in for another long, dull trip aboard the Flying Scotsman.
The last thing she expects to find as they departed from London is a body in her compartment. Despite Molly being accused of the murder, Thea knows her maid is innocent.
Aided by a young Scotland Yard inspector and an American heiress, Thea uses the detective skills she learned from reading Sherlock Holmes to track down the real murderer, but will she find them before they can strike again?
The last thing she expects to find as they departed from London is a body in her compartment. Despite Molly being accused of the murder, Thea knows her maid is innocent.
Aided by a young Scotland Yard inspector and an American heiress, Thea uses the detective skills she learned from reading Sherlock Holmes to track down the real murderer, but will she find them before they can strike again?
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2020
386 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Baker
10 books68 followersNamed for the famous fictional mystery writer Jessica Fletcher, Jessica Baker picked up a pen when she was in elementary school and never set it down.
Jessica lives in sunny Central Florida and is a member of Sisters in Crime. When she’s not writing, she freelances as a camera assistant in film which provides plenty of inspiration for her stories.
To learn more about Jessica and her books, visit her at https://www.jessicabakerauthor.com/ and for the latest information, subscribe to her newsletters.
Jessica lives in sunny Central Florida and is a member of Sisters in Crime. When she’s not writing, she freelances as a camera assistant in film which provides plenty of inspiration for her stories.
To learn more about Jessica and her books, visit her at https://www.jessicabakerauthor.com/ and for the latest information, subscribe to her newsletters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 25, 2020
This is a charming story that immerses the reader in the feeling of being on a British train in the early 1900s. I enjoyed characters, the unexpected relationship between Lady Thea and her companion, Molly, and the sweet spark of romance between Thea and her inspector suitor. (Oh and, of course, the mystery -- which takes place in Lady Thea's own cabin on the train.) The descriptions of the train travel experience and the wardrobes of the female characters were also delightful.
I haven't read many historical cozies, so I am probably not the best person to comment on the particulars that devoted fans of the sub-genre watch for. All I can say is that I immediately had the feeling of a time and place and experience from long ago and far away.
This is a promising debut and I hope and expect Ms. Baker has more adventures in mind for Lady Thea.
I haven't read many historical cozies, so I am probably not the best person to comment on the particulars that devoted fans of the sub-genre watch for. All I can say is that I immediately had the feeling of a time and place and experience from long ago and far away.
This is a promising debut and I hope and expect Ms. Baker has more adventures in mind for Lady Thea.
August 4, 2020
This is the first book in the Lady Thea Mystery series. I really enjoyed reading it. The story captivated my attention. Lady Thea and her maid Molly are on the train to Scotland, where Thea will visit her relatives. A man familiar to Molly is killed in their compartment. The police Inspector arrests Molly for the murder. Lady Thea determines to find the real killer, withe help of an American heiress, a handsome Scotland Yard detective and a news reporter..
Jessica Baker has given us characters that develop as the story progresses.Her descriptions of the train put me in the middle of the action. This is my first book by this author and I can’t wait wait to read the next one!
Jessica Baker has given us characters that develop as the story progresses.Her descriptions of the train put me in the middle of the action. This is my first book by this author and I can’t wait wait to read the next one!
April 29, 2020
When Lady Theodora Prescott-Pryce leaves London, to visit her cousins in Scotland, she has no idea how her life will change. Secrets will be exposed and mysteries will be solved - all while traveling on the Flying Scotsman in 1910!
I loved this book! Lady Theodora was so much fun to meet. She's smart, witty and doesn't shy away from those who need help especially when her maid and friend Molly finds herself accused of murder. The descriptions of the characters, fashions, train and customs of the period kept me reading and entertained just as much as the mystery.. While Thea is an example of a proper young woman of the time, she finds herself intrigued by mysteries around her. The character is a perfect combination of a "Lady" and a modern sleuth! The mystery had red herrings (which I love!) and I didn't guess "whodunit"!
I'm looking forward to the next mystery in which Lady Thea finds herself involved!
I loved this book! Lady Theodora was so much fun to meet. She's smart, witty and doesn't shy away from those who need help especially when her maid and friend Molly finds herself accused of murder. The descriptions of the characters, fashions, train and customs of the period kept me reading and entertained just as much as the mystery.. While Thea is an example of a proper young woman of the time, she finds herself intrigued by mysteries around her. The character is a perfect combination of a "Lady" and a modern sleuth! The mystery had red herrings (which I love!) and I didn't guess "whodunit"!
I'm looking forward to the next mystery in which Lady Thea finds herself involved!
April 2, 2020
Murder on the Flying Scotsman is the first book in the Lady Thea's Mysteries series and is a fabulous start to this series.
I loved this book from the start and could not put it down until I had finished. The characters are well developed, intelligent, and interesting. The storyline is well written and charming, with a murder on a train bound between London and Scotland in 1910, danger, suspense, and intrigue.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
I loved this book from the start and could not put it down until I had finished. The characters are well developed, intelligent, and interesting. The storyline is well written and charming, with a murder on a train bound between London and Scotland in 1910, danger, suspense, and intrigue.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
July 15, 2020
It’s been a while since I’ve read a mystery book and even longer since I’ve read a historical mystery. This was the perfect book to rekindle a love for the genre. Murder on the Flying Scotsman has the perfect balance of plot and character. Every character met throughout the pages has their own, well thought-out story even when they seem to play a minor role. I’m usually not bad at figuring out ‘who did it’, but this time I had the killer pegged wrong. How refreshing it was! I am looking forward to revisiting Lady Thea in the books to come.
April 12, 2020
Set in 1910 on a train. This is an excellent read. With a good mystery and characters that I look forward to reading again. It has been a while since I have been sucked into a book. It was nice to get into this one. I enjoyed it so much, I immediately looked for the next one. Unfortunately for me this is a new book and I will have to wait.
May 30, 2020
This is a very enjoyable historical cozy mystery. I really loved meeting the well fleshed out main character, Thea. She is delightful by not being perfect. This makes her realistic and someone I'd like to meet. The author is also wonderful at creating scenes in a picturesque and visual way. I highly recommend this book and series!
June 28, 2020
This is a great read. I like Lady Thea’s eye for detail. I have one too. She was able to point out things that others may not have noticed. I was also thinking the murderer was “this person” but that seemed way too obvious. I’m looking forward to reading the other books in this collection.
June 11, 2020
It's been a while since I read a historical mystery. This book reminded me why I love them. The story follows Lady Theodora and her maid Molly as they start their annual trek to visit family in Scotland. Aboard the Flying Scotsman, the two quickly find themselves at the center of a murder mystery. With no option other than to take up the task of investigating, Lady Thea sets aside her emotions to ensure the real culprit is caught.
What I loved about this book was the way the story kept unfolding. No one is who they seem to be - a fact that even Lady Thea notes by the end of her journey.
I'll be keeping my fingers crossed that Baker carries on with the series. I need more Thea and Thayne, please!
What I loved about this book was the way the story kept unfolding. No one is who they seem to be - a fact that even Lady Thea notes by the end of her journey.
I'll be keeping my fingers crossed that Baker carries on with the series. I need more Thea and Thayne, please!
September 10, 2020
Loved this book, great story.....fun!
Sue
Sue
October 16, 2020
This is first book that I've read by this author and I absolutely loved it. I'm a big fan of historical fiction, especially historical murder mystery. It is set in the early 1900s. On a train bound to Scotland, a murder occurs. Lady Thea's maid, Molly is implicated. Lady Thea sets out to prove her maid and friend is innocent. The author has created an exciting cast of characters and the plot was well-developed and very interesting. I've already downloaded book two in the series.
August 17, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this book
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I figured out “who done it” early on, but enjoyed the trip to the end nevertheless. Likable characters and the descriptions of the people and the train so you actually felt like you were there. Made great light reading just before sleep and early morning with my tea. Recommend it!
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I figured out “who done it” early on, but enjoyed the trip to the end nevertheless. Likable characters and the descriptions of the people and the train so you actually felt like you were there. Made great light reading just before sleep and early morning with my tea. Recommend it!
April 1, 2020
Very enjoyable mystery that kept me guessing. A train full of suspects. Lots of interesting characters. Lots of intrigue. A couple of smart ladies. Looking forward to the next adventure.
August 17, 2020
An eventful train ride to Scotland has Thea meeting new people and helping clear her friend from a murder charge. Looking forward to reading about these characters in future books.
May 22, 2020
Lady Theodora Prescott-Pryce is traveling to Scotland aboard the Flying Scotsman to visit her cousins. She doesn't relish the idea of being with her boisterous family, as much as she loves them. She would rather spend time with her companion Molly Forbes. Molly passes the time by reading Sherlock Holmes mysteries while Thea forces herself to socialize in the first class dining car. Upon her return, she discovers the body of a man lying in his own blood on the floor of her compartment. The police immediately suspect Molly after learning the victim, Daniel Talbot, was Molly's secret husband! In spite of Molly keeping a huge secret from Thea, Thea knows Molly would never hurt a living creature, let alone her adored husband. Thea is certain the detective isn't looking at any other suspects. With the help of some fellow passengers she sets out to clear Molly's name. Then a rash of thefts hits the train car and Thea is uncertain that the new events are not connected to Daniel's murder. Will the thief lead her to the killer?
This story had a lot of promise. It has all the elements I like, being an homage to Downton Abbey and inspired by Sherlock Holmes and I'm guessing Agatha Christie from the train setting. Throw in a bit of Titanic and I'm sold. The plot isn't that complicated. It isn't hard to guess which one of the passengers killed Daniel but who that person is and why is impossible to guess until the clues are revealed. I was able to put the book down halfway and sleep just fine. I didn't dream about it. The writing is fairly pedestrian, especially for an author with an MFA in Creative Writing! While I don't have an MFA, I do have a degree in Literature and I know the first rule of writing is show don't tell. I don't believe this story has enough showing. The first person narration may hamper that a bit. There are also a fair amount of typos and word usage errors. The author offers editing services but she apparently didn't make use of anyone else's editing services for her book. With some editing and polishing, this book could really shine and possibly find a publisher. I would gladly read more about Thea if the writing improves. I am a sucker for 1910s high society lady detectives.
Thea is a fun heroine. She's happily unmarried and loathes the social events of the season. After a season in London, she needs to recharge in the peace and quiet. Her cousins' family is large and a little too loud for her. It sounds like my own family! Thea wants more than marriage and the constraints her social class places on her. She chafes at those restrictions, much like Rose from Titanic but a little more believable. Fortunately, her mother isn't pressuring her too hard to marry the "right" sort of man. There's a hint of romance here and I would like to see it develop into something more eventually. I like how Thea stands up for Molly and accepts Molly for her loyalty and kindness. Thea is hurt by Molly's deception but she knows Molly was only protecting herself and her husband from their awful families. Thea is able to think logically about Molly's situation and realizes Molly would never kill anyone. Plus she witnessed a private moment between the couple. Thea is kind to Molly but she's kind to almost everyone. She's a little naive and that leads her to rush into danger. It makes total sense for her to think no one would ever harm her. She's never experienced cruelty before and she's a Lady so her status protects her.
Molly is a good friend to Thea. She's sweet and kind even though she's feeling unwell. Poor Molly is framed for a murder she didn't commit. She lost her beloved husband and with him her strength seems to be zapped out of her. I don't blame her. Her situation seems dire. At the end I came to admire Molly even if I didn't necessarily agree with her decision. We don't know a whole lot about Daniel. Aside from a clandestine marriage, undertaken WAY too young, he seems like he was an honorable man and he loved Molly very much. Daniel tried to protect Molly from the harsh realities of his business life, fearing she could be in danger. It's probably a good thing she was both ignorant and in the wash room when the murder was committed.
Secondary characters who help Thea investigate include Colonel Stephen Bantry, Mrs. Wilhelmina Livingston, and the Hon. Edward "Leslie" Thayne. Col. Bantry seems like your typical British empire "for King and Country what what?" type. He spent time in India and writes novels. He turns out to have more depth than some of the other characters and I quite liked him by the end. Wilhelmina is a pistol! I feel horribly sad for her. Her husband sounds like a major creep and I hope he dies so she can be free. She's too lively and energetic to be married to such a creepy man who doesn't love her or appreciate her. Wilhemina knows no fear and that makes me nervous for her friendship with Thea. Is she willingly leading Thea into danger? She may not have been raised in Texas but I bet she could handle herself there quite well. I like how she accepts Thea's assessment of the situation without question and how she jumps in to help Thea. The Honorable Edward Thayne has a secret. He's actually a Detective Inspector at Scotland Yard! For some reason he isn't handling this case. He is on hand to support Thea to help save Molly. He is very sweet, kind and caring. I found myself falling slightly in love with him myself. I really, really appreciate how he supports Thea instead of telling her to stop. James Poyntz of the West End Gazette is also investigating the murder. Unlike Thea, he isn't convinced Molly is innocent unless he can find proof. He's more street smart than Thea and knows better how to conduct an investigation. She doesn't quite trust James though and I never really did either.
The local Yorkshire police are so completely incompetent. Detective Chief Inspector Louis Stanton of the Leeds City Police is the worst offender. He's brusque and mean. He believes Molly is guilty until proven innocent but doesn't do much to prove his innocence. He'd like to arrest Thea as Molly's accomplice if he can but she has an airtight alibi. This man is just awful, rude and mean. He doesn't have any sympathy or caring in him at all. Constable Patrick Cooke is nicer but he seems to be playing a dual role and Thea isn't sure if he's entirely trustworthy. If even if she can trust him, there isn't much he can do.
Also in the enemy camp is Mrs. St. John, a pretentious, overbearing, horrible woman. The way she treats her daughter Nora is simply awful. Nora is a teenage girl and utterly terrified of her mother. She proves to have more brains and more kindness than her mother. Their plot reminded me of Titanic. Then there's Lionel Fletcher, Daniel's business partner. He had a good motive for murder but did he have the means and opportunity? I don't like the sound of him.
I enjoyed this book a lot and hope the author keeps working on more about Thea. There are some minor unsolved mysteries and plot threads that I'd like to see wrapped up. I'd also love an introduction to Thea's auto racing Aunt Dorothea!
This story had a lot of promise. It has all the elements I like, being an homage to Downton Abbey and inspired by Sherlock Holmes and I'm guessing Agatha Christie from the train setting. Throw in a bit of Titanic and I'm sold. The plot isn't that complicated. It isn't hard to guess which one of the passengers killed Daniel but who that person is and why is impossible to guess until the clues are revealed. I was able to put the book down halfway and sleep just fine. I didn't dream about it. The writing is fairly pedestrian, especially for an author with an MFA in Creative Writing! While I don't have an MFA, I do have a degree in Literature and I know the first rule of writing is show don't tell. I don't believe this story has enough showing. The first person narration may hamper that a bit. There are also a fair amount of typos and word usage errors. The author offers editing services but she apparently didn't make use of anyone else's editing services for her book. With some editing and polishing, this book could really shine and possibly find a publisher. I would gladly read more about Thea if the writing improves. I am a sucker for 1910s high society lady detectives.
Thea is a fun heroine. She's happily unmarried and loathes the social events of the season. After a season in London, she needs to recharge in the peace and quiet. Her cousins' family is large and a little too loud for her. It sounds like my own family! Thea wants more than marriage and the constraints her social class places on her. She chafes at those restrictions, much like Rose from Titanic but a little more believable. Fortunately, her mother isn't pressuring her too hard to marry the "right" sort of man. There's a hint of romance here and I would like to see it develop into something more eventually. I like how Thea stands up for Molly and accepts Molly for her loyalty and kindness. Thea is hurt by Molly's deception but she knows Molly was only protecting herself and her husband from their awful families. Thea is able to think logically about Molly's situation and realizes Molly would never kill anyone. Plus she witnessed a private moment between the couple. Thea is kind to Molly but she's kind to almost everyone. She's a little naive and that leads her to rush into danger. It makes total sense for her to think no one would ever harm her. She's never experienced cruelty before and she's a Lady so her status protects her.
Molly is a good friend to Thea. She's sweet and kind even though she's feeling unwell. Poor Molly is framed for a murder she didn't commit. She lost her beloved husband and with him her strength seems to be zapped out of her. I don't blame her. Her situation seems dire. At the end I came to admire Molly even if I didn't necessarily agree with her decision. We don't know a whole lot about Daniel. Aside from a clandestine marriage, undertaken WAY too young, he seems like he was an honorable man and he loved Molly very much. Daniel tried to protect Molly from the harsh realities of his business life, fearing she could be in danger. It's probably a good thing she was both ignorant and in the wash room when the murder was committed.
Secondary characters who help Thea investigate include Colonel Stephen Bantry, Mrs. Wilhelmina Livingston, and the Hon. Edward "Leslie" Thayne. Col. Bantry seems like your typical British empire "for King and Country what what?" type. He spent time in India and writes novels. He turns out to have more depth than some of the other characters and I quite liked him by the end. Wilhelmina is a pistol! I feel horribly sad for her. Her husband sounds like a major creep and I hope he dies so she can be free. She's too lively and energetic to be married to such a creepy man who doesn't love her or appreciate her. Wilhemina knows no fear and that makes me nervous for her friendship with Thea. Is she willingly leading Thea into danger? She may not have been raised in Texas but I bet she could handle herself there quite well. I like how she accepts Thea's assessment of the situation without question and how she jumps in to help Thea. The Honorable Edward Thayne has a secret. He's actually a Detective Inspector at Scotland Yard! For some reason he isn't handling this case. He is on hand to support Thea to help save Molly. He is very sweet, kind and caring. I found myself falling slightly in love with him myself. I really, really appreciate how he supports Thea instead of telling her to stop. James Poyntz of the West End Gazette is also investigating the murder. Unlike Thea, he isn't convinced Molly is innocent unless he can find proof. He's more street smart than Thea and knows better how to conduct an investigation. She doesn't quite trust James though and I never really did either.
The local Yorkshire police are so completely incompetent. Detective Chief Inspector Louis Stanton of the Leeds City Police is the worst offender. He's brusque and mean. He believes Molly is guilty until proven innocent but doesn't do much to prove his innocence. He'd like to arrest Thea as Molly's accomplice if he can but she has an airtight alibi. This man is just awful, rude and mean. He doesn't have any sympathy or caring in him at all. Constable Patrick Cooke is nicer but he seems to be playing a dual role and Thea isn't sure if he's entirely trustworthy. If even if she can trust him, there isn't much he can do.
Also in the enemy camp is Mrs. St. John, a pretentious, overbearing, horrible woman. The way she treats her daughter Nora is simply awful. Nora is a teenage girl and utterly terrified of her mother. She proves to have more brains and more kindness than her mother. Their plot reminded me of Titanic. Then there's Lionel Fletcher, Daniel's business partner. He had a good motive for murder but did he have the means and opportunity? I don't like the sound of him.
I enjoyed this book a lot and hope the author keeps working on more about Thea. There are some minor unsolved mysteries and plot threads that I'd like to see wrapped up. I'd also love an introduction to Thea's auto racing Aunt Dorothea!
June 27, 2020
3 1/2 stars. A fun book with great characters and a perfect location for the time period, a train. Lady Thea fits the mold of what many readers would picture as a lady who is part of the social scene in the early teens of the 20th century. She isn't an Original; she hasn't bucked the system, but does find it a bit overwhelming by the end of the season. She is also more sympathetic to others not of her social status than most others. It makes her likable and it makes sense that she would be willing to go out of her way to try to prove her maid innocent of the charge of murder.
The secondary characters are also strong, well-developed characters. Wilhelmina, an American, is over the top but such a nice contrast to the more controlled and staid British. She is a hoot. Many of them are not what they first seem which adds some mystery to the story. It was easy to guess who the culprit was, but the reason why and who that person was is only discovered after many surprise twists and turns. I would definitely read another.
The secondary characters are also strong, well-developed characters. Wilhelmina, an American, is over the top but such a nice contrast to the more controlled and staid British. She is a hoot. Many of them are not what they first seem which adds some mystery to the story. It was easy to guess who the culprit was, but the reason why and who that person was is only discovered after many surprise twists and turns. I would definitely read another.
December 17, 2020
Great Classic English Mystery
I enjoy this book a lot. It has the charm and grace of a classic mystery in the nature of Allingham or Christie but with a faster lighter pace. The villain is not a secret but the chase and the women detective heroes are good on multi layered and appropriate to the time period . satisfying end and hint of more to come in the character's development
I enjoy this book a lot. It has the charm and grace of a classic mystery in the nature of Allingham or Christie but with a faster lighter pace. The villain is not a secret but the chase and the women detective heroes are good on multi layered and appropriate to the time period . satisfying end and hint of more to come in the character's development
December 5, 2021
What? This is book one of a two book series; MORE PLEASE
Jessica Baker has written a wonderful murder mystery. Things that make it wonderful include: 1. Setting - takes place on a fast traveling train, 2. No body is who they present themselves to be, 3. Every character stays consistent, including the inconsistent ones, 4. Who can you trust or believe at a time like this, 5. So many lies . . . There are many more wonders, but it is such a good read, why tell all?
Jessica Baker has written a wonderful murder mystery. Things that make it wonderful include: 1. Setting - takes place on a fast traveling train, 2. No body is who they present themselves to be, 3. Every character stays consistent, including the inconsistent ones, 4. Who can you trust or believe at a time like this, 5. So many lies . . . There are many more wonders, but it is such a good read, why tell all?
January 5, 2021
I was very impressed with this book and look forward to reading more of this author's stories. The characters were quite believable, the plot easily followed, yet with as many twists and turns, any mystery fan would enjoy, and the ending quite satisfactory. I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next one.
October 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this new series. I love the train adventure. I already own the 2nd book so will be starting right away.
February 18, 2021
Loved this book!
February 18, 2021
Must read!!!!
I read this one, in one day because I could not put it down! I haven't read a good murder mystery in a long time! Thank you Jessica!!
I read this one, in one day because I could not put it down! I haven't read a good murder mystery in a long time! Thank you Jessica!!
March 9, 2024
Lady Thea is on a train to Scotland to visit her cousins when she finds a dead body in her compartment. The man turns out to be the secret husband of her maid, Molly. When Molly is arrested for the murder, Lady Thea determines to find the real killer. She meets a quirky assortment of fellow passengers as well as a handsome inspector from Scotland Yard and a mysterious reporter. The suspects keep you guessing until the culprit is revealed in the final, suspense-filled scene. Even without the murder, the setting and sleuth are fun to follow. I’ll look forward to reading more in this delightful series.
November 12, 2023
Not outstanding but a very interesting and easy reading. Read it in 2 sittings.
May 8, 2024
Rating: 3.5 / 5 (rounded down)
I'm a bit torn on what to think about this one, because while it is pleasant enough, it's also...well, kind of dull.
As our heroine, we have Lady Thea, who's on her way to Scotland to visit her cousins. Accompanying her is her maid, Molly, who is accused of the murder that takes place right in Thea's compartment. While Molly being arrested seems like a done deal for the local police, Thea herself isn't sure; so, with the help of a charming Scotland Yard inspector and an American heiress, she sets out to find the real murderer.
_______
Pretty standard stuff in terms of a setup for a historical cozy mystery, but it's the writing that throws me off the most. It's not BAD, per se, but it is very generic and sometimes focuses on details that really don't matter. For example, during a short scene where Thea interviews one of the other passengers to get more information about the time of the murder, there's a whole paragraph just describing the notebook that she's writing in, and how it's a favourite of hers as a gift from her father. That's....really irrelevant in a scene that's already very short, and honestly could just have been cut out altogether.
Likewise, sometimes the identification of the characters throws me off too. For example, the American lady who helps Thea, Mrs. Wilhelmina Livingston, is identified in the text first as "the American", then "Mrs. Livingston", and then eventually "Wilhelmina" once she and Thea get closer. This is fine if only it was kept consistent in that order, and that once a switch in identification occurs it stays that way; except that the author keeps switching back and forth between these three ways of identifying the woman in a way that gets to be quite annoying. Why keep referring to her as "the American" once we already know her name?
As for the mystery itself, I agree with what was said in some other reviews in that it's not hard to guess whodunnit, but impossible to guess the motive behind it until more clues are revealed. I got the sense that Thea herself is rather slow to pick up on things and has no qualifications or natural talents at all to be a detective, so it was really just her own personal charm that kept me somewhat interested in seeing where the story would go.
Therefore, all in all, a so-so final verdict from me. Not the worst thing in this genre by a long shot, but definitely FAR from the best.
I'm a bit torn on what to think about this one, because while it is pleasant enough, it's also...well, kind of dull.
As our heroine, we have Lady Thea, who's on her way to Scotland to visit her cousins. Accompanying her is her maid, Molly, who is accused of the murder that takes place right in Thea's compartment. While Molly being arrested seems like a done deal for the local police, Thea herself isn't sure; so, with the help of a charming Scotland Yard inspector and an American heiress, she sets out to find the real murderer.
_______
Pretty standard stuff in terms of a setup for a historical cozy mystery, but it's the writing that throws me off the most. It's not BAD, per se, but it is very generic and sometimes focuses on details that really don't matter. For example, during a short scene where Thea interviews one of the other passengers to get more information about the time of the murder, there's a whole paragraph just describing the notebook that she's writing in, and how it's a favourite of hers as a gift from her father. That's....really irrelevant in a scene that's already very short, and honestly could just have been cut out altogether.
Likewise, sometimes the identification of the characters throws me off too. For example, the American lady who helps Thea, Mrs. Wilhelmina Livingston, is identified in the text first as "the American", then "Mrs. Livingston", and then eventually "Wilhelmina" once she and Thea get closer. This is fine if only it was kept consistent in that order, and that once a switch in identification occurs it stays that way; except that the author keeps switching back and forth between these three ways of identifying the woman in a way that gets to be quite annoying. Why keep referring to her as "the American" once we already know her name?
As for the mystery itself, I agree with what was said in some other reviews in that it's not hard to guess whodunnit, but impossible to guess the motive behind it until more clues are revealed. I got the sense that Thea herself is rather slow to pick up on things and has no qualifications or natural talents at all to be a detective, so it was really just her own personal charm that kept me somewhat interested in seeing where the story would go.
Therefore, all in all, a so-so final verdict from me. Not the worst thing in this genre by a long shot, but definitely FAR from the best.
August 11, 2020
I really like historical mysteries with a strong independent heroine. I keep trying new books when I come across them. Unfortunately very few of them live up to the promise of their publicity blurb. My biggest irritation is the number of authors, especially women, who build up their heroines to be independent then immediately introduce a man who just takes over.
Fortunately Thea is involved in the investigation and she is a likeable character, but she isn’t as strong or as independent as I hoped. The story was easy to read, but I won’t be trying the next book as it appears the author fully intends to turn it into a romance.
Fortunately Thea is involved in the investigation and she is a likeable character, but she isn’t as strong or as independent as I hoped. The story was easy to read, but I won’t be trying the next book as it appears the author fully intends to turn it into a romance.
March 29, 2020
Book one in the Lady Thea’s Mysteries series a well written suspense story that kept me turning pages. As the 1910 London Season comes to an end, it’s time for Lady Theodora Prescott-Pryce to go to Scotland to see her cousins with her maid Molly. Metropolitan Police Detective Inspector Leslie Thayne is working a case. There is suspense,drama,danger, a murderer, a cover-up, and mystery. this is the first book by this Author that I have read, i will be looking for more in this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2021
A complex main character and a hint of romance
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Lady Thea. She's a complex character, a mix of confident and timid, which I think fits a woman of her time. It also fits many modern women who forge ahead in life but second guess themselves along the way. The supporting cast of characters was entertaining and the mystery first-rate. I look forward to book two.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Lady Thea. She's a complex character, a mix of confident and timid, which I think fits a woman of her time. It also fits many modern women who forge ahead in life but second guess themselves along the way. The supporting cast of characters was entertaining and the mystery first-rate. I look forward to book two.
November 5, 2023
Идея си нямате колко е популярен жанра на благородните девици, или съвсем не от чистия такъв тип, които разследват убийства, измами и всякакви низости, задушаващи висшето британско общество, докато си разхождат малките породисти кученца. Това лейди без кученце е като кралица без корона в чудесните регентско-викторианско-едуардиански времена. Но Лейди Теа решава да обърне нещата и да започне да си разнася навсякъде…котка. Не е единствената, не е първата, не е и последната аматьорка детективка със синя кръв, която решава, че едно толкова териториално домашно животно може да бъде разкарвано безпроблемно по имения и дворци без особено важна роля, освен в съществуването си, но коя съм аз точно пък на това решение кусури да му търся. Най-малкото ще вдъхнови някой и друг читател да спаси животинка в нужда, а това често се равнява на екзестенциално чудо.
Но да се концентрираме върху реалната дейност на лейди Теа, освен естествено търсенето на съпруг с идеалния баланс между злато в банката и благородна кръв във вените, а именно – убийствата. Така де, разрешаването им. Много ми се иска да има поредица за елегантна лейди серийна убийца, която се измъква под носа на Шерлок Холмс, но още не съм я намерила, затова детективските поредици си остават новото ми дивно увлечение. Та Теа лесно попада на трупове, както е привично за всяка благородна дама с малко повече мозък и малко повече нежелание да се жени на осемнадесет, поне според книгите. Те я засичат из влакове, магазини и чужди къщи, често заподозрените са близки хора, и разрешаването на поредния случай е плод колкото на късмет и грешки, толкова и на размисъл и здравословна подозрителност. Класическо та дрънка. Къде обаче е истинската ценност на поредицата?
Тя е написана леко, съвременно и динамично, с героиня с мислене, по-близко до нашето, отколкото историческо достоверно, което изненадващо ми допада много – явно не съм толкова педантична, колкото очаквах. Престъпленията са винаги плод на страст и обстоятелства, извършителите са по-скоро отчаяни, отколкото истински зли, но добра доза екшън и висене от влакове или висене от прозорци или висене от коли в движение никак не липсват. Много балансирано, умерено, симпатично и приятно четиво, без абсолютно никакви претенции, планове и сюжетни бомби. Просто симпатични дамски криминалки, и то с котка за компаньон. Ще се изненадате приятно, обещавам.
Но да се концентрираме върху реалната дейност на лейди Теа, освен естествено търсенето на съпруг с идеалния баланс между злато в банката и благородна кръв във вените, а именно – убийствата. Така де, разрешаването им. Много ми се иска да има поредица за елегантна лейди серийна убийца, която се измъква под носа на Шерлок Холмс, но още не съм я намерила, затова детективските поредици си остават новото ми дивно увлечение. Та Теа лесно попада на трупове, както е привично за всяка благородна дама с малко повече мозък и малко повече нежелание да се жени на осемнадесет, поне според книгите. Те я засичат из влакове, магазини и чужди къщи, често заподозрените са близки хора, и разрешаването на поредния случай е плод колкото на късмет и грешки, толкова и на размисъл и здравословна подозрителност. Класическо та дрънка. Къде обаче е истинската ценност на поредицата?
Тя е написана леко, съвременно и динамично, с героиня с мислене, по-близко до нашето, отколкото историческо достоверно, което изненадващо ми допада много – явно не съм толкова педантична, колкото очаквах. Престъпленията са винаги плод на страст и обстоятелства, извършителите са по-скоро отчаяни, отколкото истински зли, но добра доза екшън и висене от влакове или висене от прозорци или висене от коли в движение никак не липсват. Много балансирано, умерено, симпатично и приятно четиво, без абсолютно никакви претенции, планове и сюжетни бомби. Просто симпатични дамски криминалки, и то с котка за компаньон. Ще се изненадате приятно, обещавам.
January 7, 2024
I seem to be encountering a number of brave and independent lady detectives lately. Is the universe trying to tell me something?
Here's another one, presented with a shocking discovery: a body in her train compartment. The local authorities seem both callous and inept, arresting Thea's maid for the murder after little or no investigation. It's up to Lady Thea and another lady whom she just met on the train to follow the clues and solve the case. Poking your nose into the doings of killers can be dangerous. Fortunately for the lady detectives, they have allies in the form of a persistent reporter, a police constable who may be more than he seems, and a Scotland Yard Inspector. (Need I mention that Lady Thea is single, as are the handsome reporter and Inspector? Perhaps one or both of them will turn up in the rest of the series.)
Here's another one, presented with a shocking discovery: a body in her train compartment. The local authorities seem both callous and inept, arresting Thea's maid for the murder after little or no investigation. It's up to Lady Thea and another lady whom she just met on the train to follow the clues and solve the case. Poking your nose into the doings of killers can be dangerous. Fortunately for the lady detectives, they have allies in the form of a persistent reporter, a police constable who may be more than he seems, and a Scotland Yard Inspector. (Need I mention that Lady Thea is single, as are the handsome reporter and Inspector? Perhaps one or both of them will turn up in the rest of the series.)
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