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Lady Darby Mysteries #8
A Stroke of Malice
11 hours, 29 minutes
Lady Kiera Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage are looking forward to relaxing with new friends at an exciting yearly soiree, but they soon learn that murder never takes a holiday in the latest riveting installment in this national bestselling series.
Scotland 1832. After enjoying a delightful holiday with her family, Lady Kiera Darby is looking forward to finishing her new friend, the Duchess of Bowmont's portrait, as well as attending the duchess' annual Twelfth Night party. Though she normally avoids such fashionable events, Kiera trusts the attention will not be focused on her, but rather her notorious hostess and her family. But upon their arrival at the opulent Scottish estate, Kiera and her husband and fellow investigative partner, Sebastian Gage, swiftly deduce that all is not merry in the duke's household. The family appears to be under a great strain, and someone seems determined to cause mayhem among the guests with a series of forged notes.
However, matters swiftly turn from irksome to downright deadly when the merrymakers stumble upon a decomposing body in the castle's crypt. This corpse is certainly no laughing matter, especially when it is identified as the duchess' son-in-law, the Earl of Helmsdale, who had purportedly traveled to Paris more than a month earlier. It is evident the man met with foul play, and Kiera and Gage step in to investigate, at the duchess' insistence. Kiera and Gage must swiftly reexamine the facts, for a ruthless murderer walks among them and may well be a member of the duchess' own family. Kiera soon discovers just how deep the killer is willing to dig to keep their secrets from ever seeing the light of day.
Lady Kiera Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage are looking forward to relaxing with new friends at an exciting yearly soiree, but they soon learn that murder never takes a holiday in the latest riveting installment in this national bestselling series.
Scotland 1832. After enjoying a delightful holiday with her family, Lady Kiera Darby is looking forward to finishing her new friend, the Duchess of Bowmont's portrait, as well as attending the duchess' annual Twelfth Night party. Though she normally avoids such fashionable events, Kiera trusts the attention will not be focused on her, but rather her notorious hostess and her family. But upon their arrival at the opulent Scottish estate, Kiera and her husband and fellow investigative partner, Sebastian Gage, swiftly deduce that all is not merry in the duke's household. The family appears to be under a great strain, and someone seems determined to cause mayhem among the guests with a series of forged notes.
However, matters swiftly turn from irksome to downright deadly when the merrymakers stumble upon a decomposing body in the castle's crypt. This corpse is certainly no laughing matter, especially when it is identified as the duchess' son-in-law, the Earl of Helmsdale, who had purportedly traveled to Paris more than a month earlier. It is evident the man met with foul play, and Kiera and Gage step in to investigate, at the duchess' insistence. Kiera and Gage must swiftly reexamine the facts, for a ruthless murderer walks among them and may well be a member of the duchess' own family. Kiera soon discovers just how deep the killer is willing to dig to keep their secrets from ever seeing the light of day.
Audible Audio
First published April 7, 2020
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About the author
Anna Lee Huber
29 books3,676 followersAnna Lee Huber is the USA Today bestselling and Daphne award-winning author of the Lady Darby Mysteries, the Verity Kent Mysteries, the Gothic Myths series, as well as Sisters of Fortune: A Novel of the Titanic and the anthology The Deadly Hours. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she majored in music and minored in psychology. She currently resides in Indiana with her family and is hard at work on her next novel. Visit her online at www.annaleehuber.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 432 reviews
June 24, 2021
Another review that’s completely disappeared! ☹️
May 13, 2020
I flew through the Lady Darby series last year after reading and loving Anna Lee Huber’s Verity Kent series. Both are delightful! When we meet Lady Kiera Darby at the beginning of the series, she is a woman ostracized by society when they found out her late husband had her sketch the dead bodies he dissected for an anatomy journal he planned on publishing. At the time fresh bodies were hard to come by, not many would donate their body to science for this purpose, so medical colleges and people like Sir Darby resorted to buying corpses from questionable sources. It was later found out that some of these suppliers not only robbed fresh graves, but also murdered people to sell as dead medical subjects. Kiera had no knowledge of this, and even if she did there wasn’t much she could’ve done about it since her husband was forcing her to comply by force and threats. He was an awful man, as we learn from Kiera’s memories, and so I was thrilled he died before we’re introduced to her.
This unwanted, unsolicited knowledge of anatomy as well as Kiera’s superb deductive skills make her valuable source of information to Gage, an inquiry agent tasked to solve a murder while staying at her sister’s estate. In Kiera’s estimations, Gage is entirely too full of himself, and the rest, as they say, is history! Each installment tackles a new mystery, while at the center of the series is the relationship between Kiera and Gage. Ms. Huber masterfully created two wonderfully complex characters, faults and all, so of course their journey isn’t all smooth sailing, but I’ve loved every minute!
This is the eighth book in the series, so if you read on, you’re bound to get some spoilers. If you’re planning on reading the series, which I totally recommend, I’d stop right here and go search for the first book! I highly recommend the audio version as Heather Wilds’ performance is perfection!
In A Stroke of Malice Kiera and Gage are intent on relaxing, spending time with family while enjoying the festivities of a Twelfth Night Celebration at the Duchess of Beaumont’s estate in Scotland. This is a happy time for Kiera and Gage, still newly married and expecting their first child. I adore these two together, settled and joyous in their situation! Unfortunately, the happy times are rudely interrupted by the discovery of a dead body in crypt. Gage and Kiera must find out the identity of the body as well as the murderer which is not made easy by the family or guests involved.
The mystery is wrapped up and solved, but as usual I’m left wanting the next story!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This unwanted, unsolicited knowledge of anatomy as well as Kiera’s superb deductive skills make her valuable source of information to Gage, an inquiry agent tasked to solve a murder while staying at her sister’s estate. In Kiera’s estimations, Gage is entirely too full of himself, and the rest, as they say, is history! Each installment tackles a new mystery, while at the center of the series is the relationship between Kiera and Gage. Ms. Huber masterfully created two wonderfully complex characters, faults and all, so of course their journey isn’t all smooth sailing, but I’ve loved every minute!
This is the eighth book in the series, so if you read on, you’re bound to get some spoilers. If you’re planning on reading the series, which I totally recommend, I’d stop right here and go search for the first book! I highly recommend the audio version as Heather Wilds’ performance is perfection!
In A Stroke of Malice Kiera and Gage are intent on relaxing, spending time with family while enjoying the festivities of a Twelfth Night Celebration at the Duchess of Beaumont’s estate in Scotland. This is a happy time for Kiera and Gage, still newly married and expecting their first child. I adore these two together, settled and joyous in their situation! Unfortunately, the happy times are rudely interrupted by the discovery of a dead body in crypt. Gage and Kiera must find out the identity of the body as well as the murderer which is not made easy by the family or guests involved.
The mystery is wrapped up and solved, but as usual I’m left wanting the next story!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2022
4.5 stars
April 29, 2020
Actually not as good as the previous books.
Not bad, let me tell, but still the couple lost their shine. Or, better to say, they became a usual one.
Even the mystery was less mysterious! LOL
Not bad, let me tell, but still the couple lost their shine. Or, better to say, they became a usual one.
Even the mystery was less mysterious! LOL
February 7, 2020
Kiera and Gage are visiting Sunlaws Castle for a Twelfth Night party. They are touring a relatively inaccessible area of the castle when a body is discovered. The Duke and Duchess request that Kiera and Gage investigate, but it becomes clear that almost everyone has secrets, and something to hide. Is Lady Eleanor’s faithless husband dead? If not, why has he been incommunicado for so long? Who is the dead man? The expectant Kiera and her husband aim to discover the truth, although it is clear that their personal safety may be at risk, since someone seems bound and determined to keep them in the dark. Another excellent historical mystery from Anna Lee Huber, this novel is recommended for anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Thanks to Netgalley and to the publisher for this ARC.
February 24, 2024
Kind of dragged myself through this book. I still adore the couple but felt that the story was rather slow and boring until the last couple of chapters.
December 17, 2019
I love this series so much! Lady Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage are back solving another murder while at a twelfth night party at the Duchess of Bowmonts Scottish estate. Keira and Sebastian stumble upon another dead body while on a ghost tour of the estate and with the help of Anderley and Bree try to find out who among the duchesses family is the murder. Unable to identify the body they believe it to be the estranged husband of the duchesses daughter. What follows is a whirlwind investigation and Keira is not sure who they can trust. Lovable rake Marsdale is back (although he is among the suspects) along with Keira’s brother Trevor and Keira’s sister and her husband. We were also reintroduced to Lord Henry who may be a more important character going forward. On a side note I would love to see more of the story with Bree and Anderlys growing romance.
February 13, 2022
I’m writing after my second time through this book (in less than a year…I love this series). The previous book in the series is one of my favorites, so A Stroke of Malice had a lot to live up to. You’d think that having action limited to one building would stifle the sleuthing, but there were so many people to track that the story stayed interesting.
During my reread, I found the development of Marsdale and Bree’s characters to be delightful - Marsdale has become a favorite of mine and I hope he continues to pop up in future books.
During my reread, I found the development of Marsdale and Bree’s characters to be delightful - Marsdale has become a favorite of mine and I hope he continues to pop up in future books.
April 5, 2025
This is one of the best beginnings! I love it when these books start off with a holiday or party. This one is about a very interesting family and is set in a castle and with all the family and pregnancy drama that our main character is involved in this is easily my favorite of the series so far. I love the family that is centered in this story and I hope to see them in future books. We get more turmoil in Keira and her family and Gage certainly has some drama coming up.
June 2, 2020
The winter holidays spent with family in Scotland and a Twelfth Night Ball at her new friend the Duchess of Bowmont's Scottish castle home seem just the thing for Kiera and Gage after the perils of their last case in London. Then a body turns up and the ducal family secrets might very well play a part.
A Stroke of Malice is the eighth of the Lady Darby mysteries that must be read in order to see how personal and relationship ties progress through the series.
The mystery in this one is an unidentified dead body that exposes an already notorious Kerr family to closer inspection. The duke and duchess produced their heir and spare and both have gone their own ways with lovers. The children between them and from their peccadilloes are loved by their acknowledged parents and are loving to one another. Kiera is not used to such arrangements and situations especially since her own growing up and recent marriage are very different. But, the facade is veneer thin and she sees how dark deeds like murder and abuse, jealousy and spite can be hidden when the family closes ranks and makes the investigation tougher. And, if that weren't complicated enough, their old friend Marsdale is mixed up in it all and one of the Kerr family secrets touches her and Sebastian personally. Loved all the twists and turns, tension and thrills throughout.
Kiera is well into her pregnancy and struggling with her own dark thoughts of being a fit mother, juggling a career as an inquiry agent with family and home, and overcoming her unearned, dark reputation forced on her by her late husband's anatomist work. Sebastian is fully supportive though he can't help his qualms when their inquiry case gets long and dangerous and Kiera is all but dropping with fatigue and nearly gets killed and the baby harmed when a murderer thinks they're getting too close. I do enjoy how these personal and marital elements are as strong as the mystery in each book.
The series narrator, Heather Wilds, was as fabulous as usual voicing a large cast of Scottish and British, upper and lower classes, older and young. She catches the emotional tone of each scene and that sometimes spooky quality this series can get from the settings.
All in all, A Stroke of Malice struck the chord pitch perfect and left me needing the next installment as soon as possible. This historical mystery series dosed with a good portion of romance and character-development is one I highly recommend, particularly in audio.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
A Stroke of Malice is the eighth of the Lady Darby mysteries that must be read in order to see how personal and relationship ties progress through the series.
The mystery in this one is an unidentified dead body that exposes an already notorious Kerr family to closer inspection. The duke and duchess produced their heir and spare and both have gone their own ways with lovers. The children between them and from their peccadilloes are loved by their acknowledged parents and are loving to one another. Kiera is not used to such arrangements and situations especially since her own growing up and recent marriage are very different. But, the facade is veneer thin and she sees how dark deeds like murder and abuse, jealousy and spite can be hidden when the family closes ranks and makes the investigation tougher. And, if that weren't complicated enough, their old friend Marsdale is mixed up in it all and one of the Kerr family secrets touches her and Sebastian personally. Loved all the twists and turns, tension and thrills throughout.
Kiera is well into her pregnancy and struggling with her own dark thoughts of being a fit mother, juggling a career as an inquiry agent with family and home, and overcoming her unearned, dark reputation forced on her by her late husband's anatomist work. Sebastian is fully supportive though he can't help his qualms when their inquiry case gets long and dangerous and Kiera is all but dropping with fatigue and nearly gets killed and the baby harmed when a murderer thinks they're getting too close. I do enjoy how these personal and marital elements are as strong as the mystery in each book.
The series narrator, Heather Wilds, was as fabulous as usual voicing a large cast of Scottish and British, upper and lower classes, older and young. She catches the emotional tone of each scene and that sometimes spooky quality this series can get from the settings.
All in all, A Stroke of Malice struck the chord pitch perfect and left me needing the next installment as soon as possible. This historical mystery series dosed with a good portion of romance and character-development is one I highly recommend, particularly in audio.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2020
This book really hit the spot today! The writing was superb, the plotting perfect, the characters amazing. I enjoyed this immensely and I'm sure it's due to the fact that Kiera is finally at peace with her past and no longer spends pages and pages angsting over her inadequacies and doubts. This book is straight up mystery at its best.
The H/h and their relationship is always the best part of the series, and the reason I keep coming back for more.
Safety
The H/h and their relationship is always the best part of the series, and the reason I keep coming back for more.
Safety
February 15, 2020
"We do have a tendency to trip over murdered corpses and befriend people who find themselves in trouble".
Such a joy to read a Lady Darby mystery! In A Stroke of Malice, Lady Darby has been contracted to paint the portrait of a duchess. Instead, Lady Darby and Mr. Gage find themselves heading a murder inquest. The duchess and her children have secrets aplenty and just when I thought I'd figured things out, there was another twist in the story. I especially loved the chapter ending cliff hangers.
The entire Lady Darby series is highly recommended for readers that enjoy historical mysteries.
My gratitude to publisher Berkley for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Such a joy to read a Lady Darby mystery! In A Stroke of Malice, Lady Darby has been contracted to paint the portrait of a duchess. Instead, Lady Darby and Mr. Gage find themselves heading a murder inquest. The duchess and her children have secrets aplenty and just when I thought I'd figured things out, there was another twist in the story. I especially loved the chapter ending cliff hangers.
The entire Lady Darby series is highly recommended for readers that enjoy historical mysteries.
My gratitude to publisher Berkley for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Read
April 13, 2020I seriously think that Anna Lee Huber just needs to write all of the books. She is concurrently writing two of my absolute favourite series in the genre and each experience is so fulfilling and wondrous. Yet while Kiera and Gage differ so greatly from Verity and Sidney, at the heart of each experience are two men who are blindsighted to fall for incredible centered and intelligent women so different than the norm of their respective time periods.
Here, atmosphere galore swirls around a Scottish estate's Twelfth Night party which not only provides a wonderful "Closed Room" and cloistered canvas for a thrilling mystery but recalls another delightful Twelfth Night romantic suspense by Deanna Raybourn (if you like one of these authors, you will like the other).
I really enjoyed how beyond the usual whoddunit, we continue to see a deep look at a marriage of two individuals so desperately in love with each other while trying to counterbalance their strong wills, intelligence and instinctive drive for the truth. Because Kiera is expecting, the book of course delves into the difficulty of a woman very driven by a want for a family and hearth with her natural abilities. It is what sets Huber's heroes apart that they, of course, recognize that it is the outlier status of the heroines that make them so desirable---though complicates the relationships no less.
I often look at Huber's books as authentic explorations of women's roles that transcend time period. For those who want a wonderfully swoony romance and a murder and a creaky manor where things go bump in the night, you get that--- but you also get an overarching exploration on relationships, marriages and the true difficulty of reconciling a love story with tentatively separate desires to see a conclusion no matter the cost.
Luckily, Kiera and Gage always meet in the middle
Here, atmosphere galore swirls around a Scottish estate's Twelfth Night party which not only provides a wonderful "Closed Room" and cloistered canvas for a thrilling mystery but recalls another delightful Twelfth Night romantic suspense by Deanna Raybourn (if you like one of these authors, you will like the other).
I really enjoyed how beyond the usual whoddunit, we continue to see a deep look at a marriage of two individuals so desperately in love with each other while trying to counterbalance their strong wills, intelligence and instinctive drive for the truth. Because Kiera is expecting, the book of course delves into the difficulty of a woman very driven by a want for a family and hearth with her natural abilities. It is what sets Huber's heroes apart that they, of course, recognize that it is the outlier status of the heroines that make them so desirable---though complicates the relationships no less.
I often look at Huber's books as authentic explorations of women's roles that transcend time period. For those who want a wonderfully swoony romance and a murder and a creaky manor where things go bump in the night, you get that--- but you also get an overarching exploration on relationships, marriages and the true difficulty of reconciling a love story with tentatively separate desires to see a conclusion no matter the cost.
Luckily, Kiera and Gage always meet in the middle
April 14, 2020
This series has quickly become a favorite of mine. From the flawless beautiful writing to the wonderful settings and riveting mysteries it truly is captivating. I adore the characters and with each new story, I love them even more.
This has truly become such a treat and a series that I have quickly devoured. My only regret is that I read them so quickly over the course of the month that now I have a long wait until the next book.
Truly a series ever lover of this genre needs to check out and read.
This has truly become such a treat and a series that I have quickly devoured. My only regret is that I read them so quickly over the course of the month that now I have a long wait until the next book.
Truly a series ever lover of this genre needs to check out and read.
April 17, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Lady Kiera Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage have arrived in Traquair, Scotland to attend Duchess of Bowmontʼs Twelfth Night party. There is an eerie undercurrent running through the castle but Kiera and Gage are ready for the big event which begins with trumpets and ends with murder. When Lord Edward leads guests on a ghost tour in catacombs under Kirkbryde Abbey a new corpse is found. It appears the duchessʼs son-in-law is the victim of foul play and the murderer could be one of the party’s guests. At their host’s request, Gage and Kiera find themselves leading the investigation and uncovering some weighty secrets along the way.
The characters Anna Lee Huber has created are stellar and their development over the course of the series has been excellent. Even heavy with child Lady Kiera Darby is a force when it comes to getting to the truth. Her husband Sebastian Gage is a caring and loving man who knows what a strong, intelligent woman his wife is. Together they appear to be unstoppable and uncommon for the 1800s. Ms. Huber surrounds these main characters with a diverse cast of supporting characters across all classes of the aristocracy. Gage and Kiera are usually assisted by their servants Bree and Anderley and this time Kiera’s brother is on hand to help as well.
The author sets a scene in almost a magical way. From the deep, dank catacombs, to the Sunlaws suites and ballrooms, and the Scottish countryside. The dresses, kilts, and costumes. All the people and places truly come alive with her vivid descriptions. The cover of the book gives the overall chilly feel of the time but Huber’s descriptive detail is like no other. You can almost smell the air, feel the breezes, and hear the clicks of the heels on the floors. She truly does take you into the story in a meaningful way.
As I have come to expect from this author, the mystery is very complex and full of stress-filled moments. Everyone seems to be hiding something or holding something back. The lore of ghostly friar that keeps servants on edge adds a nice little twist. The mystery takes Anderley hither and yon and Gage and Kiera into the nearby town and all around the large estate in search of answers. Well-written and plotted, I was totally clueless until the very final clues started to fall into place.
This story was one to be savored. I read it over the course of three evenings hurrying through each day so that I could get back to it.
A Stroke of Malice is a fantastic addition to this series. I do highly recommend them all. I am very excited about next year’s book in this series.
Lady Kiera Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage have arrived in Traquair, Scotland to attend Duchess of Bowmontʼs Twelfth Night party. There is an eerie undercurrent running through the castle but Kiera and Gage are ready for the big event which begins with trumpets and ends with murder. When Lord Edward leads guests on a ghost tour in catacombs under Kirkbryde Abbey a new corpse is found. It appears the duchessʼs son-in-law is the victim of foul play and the murderer could be one of the party’s guests. At their host’s request, Gage and Kiera find themselves leading the investigation and uncovering some weighty secrets along the way.
The characters Anna Lee Huber has created are stellar and their development over the course of the series has been excellent. Even heavy with child Lady Kiera Darby is a force when it comes to getting to the truth. Her husband Sebastian Gage is a caring and loving man who knows what a strong, intelligent woman his wife is. Together they appear to be unstoppable and uncommon for the 1800s. Ms. Huber surrounds these main characters with a diverse cast of supporting characters across all classes of the aristocracy. Gage and Kiera are usually assisted by their servants Bree and Anderley and this time Kiera’s brother is on hand to help as well.
The author sets a scene in almost a magical way. From the deep, dank catacombs, to the Sunlaws suites and ballrooms, and the Scottish countryside. The dresses, kilts, and costumes. All the people and places truly come alive with her vivid descriptions. The cover of the book gives the overall chilly feel of the time but Huber’s descriptive detail is like no other. You can almost smell the air, feel the breezes, and hear the clicks of the heels on the floors. She truly does take you into the story in a meaningful way.
As I have come to expect from this author, the mystery is very complex and full of stress-filled moments. Everyone seems to be hiding something or holding something back. The lore of ghostly friar that keeps servants on edge adds a nice little twist. The mystery takes Anderley hither and yon and Gage and Kiera into the nearby town and all around the large estate in search of answers. Well-written and plotted, I was totally clueless until the very final clues started to fall into place.
This story was one to be savored. I read it over the course of three evenings hurrying through each day so that I could get back to it.
A Stroke of Malice is a fantastic addition to this series. I do highly recommend them all. I am very excited about next year’s book in this series.
March 25, 2020
Series: Lady Darby Mystery #8
Publication Date: 4/7/20
Number of Pages: 384
With each new entry in the Lady Darby series, I think it just can’t get any better – but then, it does. This author never fails to intrigue and delight and she has quickly become one of my favorite historical mystery authors. While it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I would suggest reading at least the first book or two in the series to really understand Kiera’s history.
After their harrowing and intense recent visit to London, Kiera (Lady Darby) and Gage are attending a Twelfth-Night celebration in Scotland at Sunlaws Castle, the estate of the Duke and Duchess of Bowmont. It is their intent to celebrate the holiday and for Kiera to finish the painting she had already begun for the duchess before traveling on to Edinburgh for the birth of their child.
During the Twelfth-night celebration, the Lord of Misrule decided to take everyone on a ghost tour where, of course, a body was discovered. Who was it? There were no identifying features, no personal possessions, and nobody was missing from the area. Then, how did he even get there? Could it be Lady Eleanor’s husband, the Earl of Helmswick? He is supposed to be in Paris, but he’s sent no communications to anyone since he’s been gone. Except, that isn’t unusual for the Earl, so surely it isn’t him. But, if not him, then who?
What an exciting rollercoaster ride of a tale. It is hard to tell who is an enemy and who is a friend or who is a victim. You will be scratching your head from beginning to end and the wrap-up will surprise you. The only constant is Kiera and Gage’s love and respect for each other.
I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down. Now, it is hours after I read the last page and it is still on my mind. So, of course, I cannot wait for the next book which is set in cholera ridden Edinburg. Will we finally get to meet the new baby?
I hope you will love this book as much as I did – shux – I’m sure you will love it as much as I did because it is an exceptional read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 4/7/20
Number of Pages: 384
With each new entry in the Lady Darby series, I think it just can’t get any better – but then, it does. This author never fails to intrigue and delight and she has quickly become one of my favorite historical mystery authors. While it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I would suggest reading at least the first book or two in the series to really understand Kiera’s history.
After their harrowing and intense recent visit to London, Kiera (Lady Darby) and Gage are attending a Twelfth-Night celebration in Scotland at Sunlaws Castle, the estate of the Duke and Duchess of Bowmont. It is their intent to celebrate the holiday and for Kiera to finish the painting she had already begun for the duchess before traveling on to Edinburgh for the birth of their child.
During the Twelfth-night celebration, the Lord of Misrule decided to take everyone on a ghost tour where, of course, a body was discovered. Who was it? There were no identifying features, no personal possessions, and nobody was missing from the area. Then, how did he even get there? Could it be Lady Eleanor’s husband, the Earl of Helmswick? He is supposed to be in Paris, but he’s sent no communications to anyone since he’s been gone. Except, that isn’t unusual for the Earl, so surely it isn’t him. But, if not him, then who?
What an exciting rollercoaster ride of a tale. It is hard to tell who is an enemy and who is a friend or who is a victim. You will be scratching your head from beginning to end and the wrap-up will surprise you. The only constant is Kiera and Gage’s love and respect for each other.
I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down. Now, it is hours after I read the last page and it is still on my mind. So, of course, I cannot wait for the next book which is set in cholera ridden Edinburg. Will we finally get to meet the new baby?
I hope you will love this book as much as I did – shux – I’m sure you will love it as much as I did because it is an exceptional read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 12, 2020
This is yet another wonderful addition to Anna Lee Huber's Lady Darby mystery series. She had me with the book's opening with a Twelfth Night celebration and if that weren't enough, it's in a Scottish castle, no less. The festive celebration of 1832, was all fun and shenanigans. That is, until the revelers encounter a corpse of relatively recent demise down in the crypt between the castle and the old monastery ruins, tucked in among the medieval monks' bones. Lady Darby and her husband, Sebastian Gage are quickly called upon to do their discreet inquiries. Many believe they know the identity of the corpse but others have their suspicions. This could be quite the challenge for our dilligent duo, especially as Kiera (Lady Darby) is far along in the family way.
I have loved this series from the start with its smart writing and well-researched historical detail. The scenes are richly detailed and the action, riveting at times. The exposure of and poking at the generally accepted (or at least tastefully overlooked) aristocratic social practices of the day, was quite amusing. If you enjoy an historical mystery with a small touch of chaste romance, then this might just be the series for you.
I have loved this series from the start with its smart writing and well-researched historical detail. The scenes are richly detailed and the action, riveting at times. The exposure of and poking at the generally accepted (or at least tastefully overlooked) aristocratic social practices of the day, was quite amusing. If you enjoy an historical mystery with a small touch of chaste romance, then this might just be the series for you.
February 21, 2022
A Stroke of Malice
3.5 Stars
Kiera and her husband Sebastian Gage are attending the annual 12th Night celebration at the Duke of Bowmont's estate in Traquair, Scotland. All is going splendidly until a newly dead corpse is discovered in the burial crypt beneath the castle, and the duchess requests that Kiera and Gage investigate. The evidence soon suggests that the deceased is the Earl of Helmswick, the duchess's son-in-law, and suspicion naturally falls on the family members. Which one of the duke and duchess's children wanted him dead?
Series note: As there are references to earlier investigations, it is recommended that the series be read in order.
The atmospheric setting is wonderful although the details surrounding the 12th Night masquerade are excessive and slow the pacing. Moreover, the number of times Kiera's pregnancy is mentioned becomes tedious and annoying.
The action, nevertheless, picks up once the body is discovered. While it is relatively easy to predict the twists and turns of the plot, it is still entertaining to follow along with Kiera and Gage as the clues are revealed and the truth emerges. The eventual unmasking of the killer is rather lackluster mainly due to the fact that they are actually quite likable, and one cannot help but sympathize with their motive if not accept their actions.
As always, it is the development of Kiera and Gage's relationships, and the revelations pertaining to them that are the true highlight of the series. It will be interesting to see how , as well as how plays out.
In sum, although this is not one of the better installments in the series, it is enjoyable overall and I look forward to Kiera and Gage's next investigation.
3.5 Stars
Kiera and her husband Sebastian Gage are attending the annual 12th Night celebration at the Duke of Bowmont's estate in Traquair, Scotland. All is going splendidly until a newly dead corpse is discovered in the burial crypt beneath the castle, and the duchess requests that Kiera and Gage investigate. The evidence soon suggests that the deceased is the Earl of Helmswick, the duchess's son-in-law, and suspicion naturally falls on the family members. Which one of the duke and duchess's children wanted him dead?
Series note: As there are references to earlier investigations, it is recommended that the series be read in order.
The atmospheric setting is wonderful although the details surrounding the 12th Night masquerade are excessive and slow the pacing. Moreover, the number of times Kiera's pregnancy is mentioned becomes tedious and annoying.
The action, nevertheless, picks up once the body is discovered. While it is relatively easy to predict the twists and turns of the plot, it is still entertaining to follow along with Kiera and Gage as the clues are revealed and the truth emerges. The eventual unmasking of the killer is rather lackluster mainly due to the fact that they are actually quite likable, and one cannot help but sympathize with their motive if not accept their actions.
As always, it is the development of Kiera and Gage's relationships, and the revelations pertaining to them that are the true highlight of the series. It will be interesting to see how , as well as how plays out.
In sum, although this is not one of the better installments in the series, it is enjoyable overall and I look forward to Kiera and Gage's next investigation.
June 8, 2022
I have no idea what I am going to do with myself after this series is over. It has completely captivated me. A Stroke of Malice by Anna Lee Huber is the 8th book in the Lady Darby mystery series. As of right now, there are only 10 books in the series. I do hope it continues even further, I will even be ok with a spinoff with some other characters. – The more I think about it, I would love an Anderly and Bree spinoff. Just a thought!
Kiera is now very pregnant with her first child! Kiera and Sebastion are finally back in Scotland for a little while to visit with family. They attend a 12th Night Party and of course, the home is riddled with ghost stories. So the Duke’s son takes some of the guests on an impromptu tour of the crypt. However, there is a body in the crypt! Now, you may think, of course, there is a body in the crypt! –This body is new and due to the damage, the identification of the body is proving to be an issue. Their only clue leads them to believe that it could be the Duchess’ Son-in-Law, the Earl of Helmsdale. Despite being promised to be given full cooperation by the family, the family holds tight to their secrets and infidelities. Kiera and Gage are having a difficult time getting the answers they need to bring the killer to justice.
Oh, Marsdale. He can never stay out of trouble. He is notorious in society and can be quite a pain for Gage and Kiera, but I am glad we get to see more of his thoughtful side. I love getting to know more of the other characters surrounding Gage and Kiera. Especially Anderly and Bree. While I see where the setup is going, I still can’t wait for it to happen! They are wonderful investigators in their own right and once Kiera and Gage start a family, maybe they will assume more investigative roles.
I did love seeing Kiera stand up for herself in this book. She has always leaned on her family with her past. However, sometimes her family can be a bit bossy and overstep. I completely sided with her when she finally stood up for herself! Hopefully, they all come around to approve that she can be both a mother, painter and investigator!
Kiera is now very pregnant with her first child! Kiera and Sebastion are finally back in Scotland for a little while to visit with family. They attend a 12th Night Party and of course, the home is riddled with ghost stories. So the Duke’s son takes some of the guests on an impromptu tour of the crypt. However, there is a body in the crypt! Now, you may think, of course, there is a body in the crypt! –This body is new and due to the damage, the identification of the body is proving to be an issue. Their only clue leads them to believe that it could be the Duchess’ Son-in-Law, the Earl of Helmsdale. Despite being promised to be given full cooperation by the family, the family holds tight to their secrets and infidelities. Kiera and Gage are having a difficult time getting the answers they need to bring the killer to justice.
Oh, Marsdale. He can never stay out of trouble. He is notorious in society and can be quite a pain for Gage and Kiera, but I am glad we get to see more of his thoughtful side. I love getting to know more of the other characters surrounding Gage and Kiera. Especially Anderly and Bree. While I see where the setup is going, I still can’t wait for it to happen! They are wonderful investigators in their own right and once Kiera and Gage start a family, maybe they will assume more investigative roles.
I did love seeing Kiera stand up for herself in this book. She has always leaned on her family with her past. However, sometimes her family can be a bit bossy and overstep. I completely sided with her when she finally stood up for herself! Hopefully, they all come around to approve that she can be both a mother, painter and investigator!
June 8, 2020
Another amazing mystery by Anna Lee Huber! Can't wait for the next!
November 16, 2020
Ah, Mrs. Gage, also known as Lady Darby, but let’s call her by the name she prefers, yes? I have yet to read a book in this series that didn’t prove to be diverting, and as usual, after I hit the halfway point, I was pretty much a goner until I finished the story. This installment takes place in a Duke and Duchess’s castle during Twelfth Night festivities. I enjoyed the look at the customs and shenanigans that such festivities bring, although, as we know any party that Kiera Gage attends is sure to bring a bit more than intended – in this case, a much-too-fresh body in the castle crypt.
The parentage of the Duchess’s children is an interesting piece of historical context – funny how they were so straight-laced and pragmatic about extramarital affairs, and how in this case, it causes no small amount of secrets that pertain more to Kiera and Gage than they would have ever thought. Also, thank goodness for the fact that women have rights now that keep them from being treated like possessions by their husbands, phew!
There are a couple of loose ends that aren’t tied up nicely by the book’s end, but I’m sure they will be addressed in the next book, which I wait for with great anticipation.
The parentage of the Duchess’s children is an interesting piece of historical context – funny how they were so straight-laced and pragmatic about extramarital affairs, and how in this case, it causes no small amount of secrets that pertain more to Kiera and Gage than they would have ever thought. Also, thank goodness for the fact that women have rights now that keep them from being treated like possessions by their husbands, phew!
There are a couple of loose ends that aren’t tied up nicely by the book’s end, but I’m sure they will be addressed in the next book, which I wait for with great anticipation.
if-it-fall-it-fall-dnf
March 12, 2022DNF @ 34%. This was just too boring for me. Granted Scotland during 1832 sounded appealing to me. But I just found myself slogging through it. I am sure this is great for readers who enjoy 19th century sleuthing mysteries. But I am going to pass on this one. My Mystery Madness experiment is not starting off so great….🤣
April 18, 2021
I give this book a 10 for "Couldn't Put It Down"-ness, because I literally read it all in one sitting.
What I Liked: Twelfth Night; house party; Scotland; Sebastian Gage
What I Didn't Like: Nothing
What I Liked: Twelfth Night; house party; Scotland; Sebastian Gage
What I Didn't Like: Nothing
January 15, 2022
A good 3 star book. Entertaining enough story, not the best of the series not the weakest either somewhere in the middle.
I loved the twelfth night party atmosphere and I think one of those would've been a blast to attend. Of course I would rather one where a body wasn't found. There are many secrets being hidden, even if in my opinion many of them weren't necessarily hidden very well. As usual I had the majority of the mystery figured out fairly early but it was still a fun experience seeing the characters get to their conclusions.
All and all, another good addition to the series!
I loved the twelfth night party atmosphere and I think one of those would've been a blast to attend. Of course I would rather one where a body wasn't found. There are many secrets being hidden, even if in my opinion many of them weren't necessarily hidden very well. As usual I had the majority of the mystery figured out fairly early but it was still a fun experience seeing the characters get to their conclusions.
All and all, another good addition to the series!
March 24, 2021
Love that we are back in Scotland! And at another great manor house! This was another great mystery to add to Kiera and Gage's collection. The clues were great and some parts easy to figure out, but for the most part I could not figure out the murderer until the end.
And of course I am loving Kiera and Gage's relationship changing and growing stronger. I love the way they rely on each other and how they might fight, but in the end are a great unit. Also I am happy to have Marsdale back. From the beginning of the series he has always been such an intriguing character.
Now I can't wait for the next book because we are going to be getting my dear Bonnie Brock back. Oh how I have missed him! Thankfully the book will be out soon so I won't have to wait long!
And of course I am loving Kiera and Gage's relationship changing and growing stronger. I love the way they rely on each other and how they might fight, but in the end are a great unit. Also I am happy to have Marsdale back. From the beginning of the series he has always been such an intriguing character.
Now I can't wait for the next book because we are going to be getting my dear Bonnie Brock back. Oh how I have missed him! Thankfully the book will be out soon so I won't have to wait long!
May 25, 2020
Another enjoyable Lady Darby mystery!
April 7, 2020
When I read Anna Lee Huber's very first Lady Darby mystery, I was hooked, and I eagerly await each next book in the series. I have never been disappointed. In this eighth book in the series, Sebastian and Kiera Gage are happy to be celebrating the new year with friends in 1832. But, as always happens when they are around, a dead body turns up. Which means no relaxing holiday for them. So, together with Gage's faithful valet, Anderly, and Kiera's loyal maid, Bree, the inquiry agents make it their business to solve yet another gruesome murder. Only now, Kiera is six month's pregnant and must take it easy, as she learns to her detriment in this sprawling castle in which they've been invited to and must now investigate the murder. And there are a host of suspects at the Duchess of Bowmont's Twelfth Night Party!
Huber is very skillful at engaging her readers in each crime she invents for these wonderful books. I particularly enjoy being invited inside Lady Darby's (Kiera's) mind as she delves into the murders she and Gage solves. And then Huber takes us deeper and deeper into the lives of those invited to the party and we soon find out that nearly everyone had a motive for being the perpetrator of the deadly crime. And, of course, each book ends on a note that makes us eager to read the next book. If only it weren't so long between them! Recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion expressed here is entirely my own.
Huber is very skillful at engaging her readers in each crime she invents for these wonderful books. I particularly enjoy being invited inside Lady Darby's (Kiera's) mind as she delves into the murders she and Gage solves. And then Huber takes us deeper and deeper into the lives of those invited to the party and we soon find out that nearly everyone had a motive for being the perpetrator of the deadly crime. And, of course, each book ends on a note that makes us eager to read the next book. If only it weren't so long between them! Recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion expressed here is entirely my own.
Read
September 21, 2020Sadly, I listened to this in audio and the narrator was one of the most annoying narrators I've ever listened to (well, except for the one who shouted throughout the whole story). This one had an odd style of emphasizing every few syllables -- in places one wouldn't normally expect emphasis -- by raising the pitch slightly. I put the book down for over a week, and finally decided to plow through it.
While the story was interesting, and I continue to like the main characters, the narration repeatedly took me out of the story, and a lot of the details are just fuzzy to me. I will try to buy this in print or e-format at some point and give just the story a try. But I will NEVER listen to another audio book by this narrator.
I'm deliberately not rating this one. If I could just rate the narration, it would be 1/2 star.
While the story was interesting, and I continue to like the main characters, the narration repeatedly took me out of the story, and a lot of the details are just fuzzy to me. I will try to buy this in print or e-format at some point and give just the story a try. But I will NEVER listen to another audio book by this narrator.
I'm deliberately not rating this one. If I could just rate the narration, it would be 1/2 star.
June 3, 2020
"Secrets are like poison within a family." (quote from the book)
And secrets abound in this latest Lady Darby mystery!
Hoping to enjoy the Twelfth Night ball with friends and family at the Duchess of Bowmont's Sunlaws Castle and continue painting her portrait, the undercurrents coursing through the party make this difficult to do for Kiera and Sebastian Gage. The stage is set, the players in place. With anonymous notes being delivered for private assignations, more than mischief is afoot. When taken on a tour of the castle and 'the doom' by the 'Lord of Misrule', they stumble upon a very unexpected item that they soon find the mate to...attached to a dead body.
"But with deeper breaths emerged a new scent - one that was faint but somehow familiar, though mingled with the dirt, the damp, and the musk of ancient stone I found it difficult to place. Whatever it was left a sour taste at the back of my throat that with each swallow made the lump of uneasiness forming in my gut grow bigger." (quote from the book)
On top of all this, Kiera is six months pregnant. But, of course, this does not stop her and Gage, at the request of the Duke and Duchess, to look into this matter for them. What they are hoping for is truthfulness from the family, but each are hiding something...but is it related to the murder?
I thoroughly enjoyed unraveling this mystery. I was proven correct as to the 'why' but the 'who' didn't come as quickly. I love how Kiera and Gage's relationship deepens even further through each book. It simmers throughout this one.
"Then he lifted my hand to his lips and pressed a fervent kiss into the palm, followed by another and another. When he finally lowered it, I curled my fingers around the moistness his breath had left behind and carried it up to my heart." (quote form the book)
Again, the writing is beautiful, atmospheric and haunting. The bonds of family are tested and justice may not be found.
"There was a sadness, a loneliness clinging to these stones, as if the gusts whipping through the arches were not merely wind, but the very sighs of the foundations themselves...I reached up to press a hand to the chiseled limestone, offering it my comfort, my consolation...it seemed the right thing to do... (quote from the book)
Each book builds upon the other, so I do recommend you start at the beginning with "The Anatomist's Wife". Believe me, you will not be disappointed.
And secrets abound in this latest Lady Darby mystery!
Hoping to enjoy the Twelfth Night ball with friends and family at the Duchess of Bowmont's Sunlaws Castle and continue painting her portrait, the undercurrents coursing through the party make this difficult to do for Kiera and Sebastian Gage. The stage is set, the players in place. With anonymous notes being delivered for private assignations, more than mischief is afoot. When taken on a tour of the castle and 'the doom' by the 'Lord of Misrule', they stumble upon a very unexpected item that they soon find the mate to...attached to a dead body.
"But with deeper breaths emerged a new scent - one that was faint but somehow familiar, though mingled with the dirt, the damp, and the musk of ancient stone I found it difficult to place. Whatever it was left a sour taste at the back of my throat that with each swallow made the lump of uneasiness forming in my gut grow bigger." (quote from the book)
On top of all this, Kiera is six months pregnant. But, of course, this does not stop her and Gage, at the request of the Duke and Duchess, to look into this matter for them. What they are hoping for is truthfulness from the family, but each are hiding something...but is it related to the murder?
I thoroughly enjoyed unraveling this mystery. I was proven correct as to the 'why' but the 'who' didn't come as quickly. I love how Kiera and Gage's relationship deepens even further through each book. It simmers throughout this one.
"Then he lifted my hand to his lips and pressed a fervent kiss into the palm, followed by another and another. When he finally lowered it, I curled my fingers around the moistness his breath had left behind and carried it up to my heart." (quote form the book)
Again, the writing is beautiful, atmospheric and haunting. The bonds of family are tested and justice may not be found.
"There was a sadness, a loneliness clinging to these stones, as if the gusts whipping through the arches were not merely wind, but the very sighs of the foundations themselves...I reached up to press a hand to the chiseled limestone, offering it my comfort, my consolation...it seemed the right thing to do... (quote from the book)
Each book builds upon the other, so I do recommend you start at the beginning with "The Anatomist's Wife". Believe me, you will not be disappointed.
April 6, 2020
Well, surprise upon surprise!
Sebastian Gage and Lady Kiera Derby are all set to enjoy Twelfth Night Ball revels courtesy of the Duke and Duchess of Bowmont at their palatial castle Sunlaws in Scotland. They're an unusual couple whom like so much of "the nobility [didn't] marry for love, but married for wealth and connections." Taking lovers is par for the course. They have a spawned family of legitimate and illegitimate children who are close and supportive, accepted and loved as one.
Keira is pregnant and has been looking forward to working on a portrait of the Duchess before going into seclusion. The last thing she and Gage want is a murder to solve. When on a ghost tour through the castle as part of the Twelfth Night romp, a body is discovered, Kiera and Gage's sojourn becomes an investigation into what happened, at the bequest of the family. Assured full disclosure by them, Gage and Kiera find the opposite. Secrets and half truths become blockages to solving who the corpse might be.
Gage's valet Anderley is dispatched to the Bowmont's son-in-law's estate near Haddington to help sort things out, despite cholera raging through that area. There's some thought the body might be Lord Helmsfield's. That needs to be verified. Bree, Kiera's maid lends a supportive hand to the task.
When Kiera finds herself at risk, it's obvious that things are becoming dangerous and secrets have a way of causing harm.
Sunlaw Castle is atmospherically just the place for a Gage and Darby mystery to present itself. I drank in the heightened descriptions of this sprawling place, complete with not the so secret passages leading "into the catacombs beneath the ruins of Kirkbryde Abbey." With a rumoured ghostly friar and the various staircases leading all over the place like Hogwarts rising from the mists of time, this is a bone chilling setting. Fabulous!
I was riveted by Gage and Kiera's process towards unravelling the mystery surrounding the dead body. I was charmed as always by their personal interactions, and as new twists kept being added to the ongoing story of Kiera and Gage, I was enthralled.
Later, Kiera and Gage head for Edinburgh to await the birth of their child. Despite wanting to stay away from further mysteries at this stage, the story intimates that this just may not be the case.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
Sebastian Gage and Lady Kiera Derby are all set to enjoy Twelfth Night Ball revels courtesy of the Duke and Duchess of Bowmont at their palatial castle Sunlaws in Scotland. They're an unusual couple whom like so much of "the nobility [didn't] marry for love, but married for wealth and connections." Taking lovers is par for the course. They have a spawned family of legitimate and illegitimate children who are close and supportive, accepted and loved as one.
Keira is pregnant and has been looking forward to working on a portrait of the Duchess before going into seclusion. The last thing she and Gage want is a murder to solve. When on a ghost tour through the castle as part of the Twelfth Night romp, a body is discovered, Kiera and Gage's sojourn becomes an investigation into what happened, at the bequest of the family. Assured full disclosure by them, Gage and Kiera find the opposite. Secrets and half truths become blockages to solving who the corpse might be.
Gage's valet Anderley is dispatched to the Bowmont's son-in-law's estate near Haddington to help sort things out, despite cholera raging through that area. There's some thought the body might be Lord Helmsfield's. That needs to be verified. Bree, Kiera's maid lends a supportive hand to the task.
When Kiera finds herself at risk, it's obvious that things are becoming dangerous and secrets have a way of causing harm.
Sunlaw Castle is atmospherically just the place for a Gage and Darby mystery to present itself. I drank in the heightened descriptions of this sprawling place, complete with not the so secret passages leading "into the catacombs beneath the ruins of Kirkbryde Abbey." With a rumoured ghostly friar and the various staircases leading all over the place like Hogwarts rising from the mists of time, this is a bone chilling setting. Fabulous!
I was riveted by Gage and Kiera's process towards unravelling the mystery surrounding the dead body. I was charmed as always by their personal interactions, and as new twists kept being added to the ongoing story of Kiera and Gage, I was enthralled.
Later, Kiera and Gage head for Edinburgh to await the birth of their child. Despite wanting to stay away from further mysteries at this stage, the story intimates that this just may not be the case.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
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