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Ginger Gold Mystery #13
Murder at Brighton Beach
A family holiday turns deadly at Brighton Beach. When Ginger and Basil and their family check into the Brighton Beach Boutique Hotel on a lovely warm day in June of 1926, a shocking discovery upsets their plans to relax in the sun and surf. There’s a murderer amongst the holidayers: Is it the starlet? The earl? The disgruntled businessman?
In this Agatha Christie-esque addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery series, not only will Ginger not finish her book, she and Basil might not get out of the hotel alive.
In this Agatha Christie-esque addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery series, not only will Ginger not finish her book, she and Basil might not get out of the hotel alive.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 20, 2020
901 people are currently reading
337 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,340 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 5, 2022
Ginger and Basil Reed take the family on vacation at a seaside hotel in Brighton. While on a boat excursion with other hotel guests, a large trunk is found floating in the sea. The body of Austin Bainbridge is inside. Austin had disappeared nearly a week ago from the hotel where he and his family were staying. Who killed him and stuffed his body into the trunk? Scotland Yard asks Basil to assist the local police in investigating the murder. Ginger joins him in interviewing the many suspects.
This is one of the better mysteries in the Ginger Gold series. There were several viable suspects to weed through, along with many red herrings. I kept changing my mind about the identity of the murderer. Never did guess the correct person. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
This is one of the better mysteries in the Ginger Gold series. There were several viable suspects to weed through, along with many red herrings. I kept changing my mind about the identity of the murderer. Never did guess the correct person. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
July 27, 2020
Murder at Brighton Beach by Lee Strauss allows the reader to once again enter Ginger and Basil's world at they go on holiday to Brighton Beach. Unfortunately the holiday doesn't last long before Ginger and Basil are once again involved in a puzzling mystery which involves more than one family's secrets. A fast paced plot, several suspects, Felicia falling "in love" again and a dramatic reveal that made me grip my Kindle in fear for Ginger. I'm already anticipating the next book in this series.
The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
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August 29, 2021CHAPTER ONE
Mrs. Ginger Reed gripped her husband’s arm. Overcome with a nasty urge to vomit, she tried to steady herself to no avail. Her husband, Basil Reed, a chief inspector at Scotland Yard, stared down at her. His handsome face was etched with concern, his warm hazel eyes, round in question. “You’re not—”
Ginger held a gloved hand to her mouth and mumbled. “Uh-huh.” The former Lady Gold had been certain that she’d suffer mildly whilst travelling from London to Brighton in the afternoon—however, the mornings were the worst times. As she stared at the front entrance of the Victorian-style Brighton Seaside Hotel, she sensed the worst possible thing was about to happen.
Reaching for the first thing that would suit the present crisis, Basil grabbed a pot of pansies from the windowsill and held it by Ginger’s face. Ginger inhaled as she focused on the fragrance of the blossoms and not the bubbling acid in her stomach. She couldn’t possibly be sick in a flowerpot belonging to the management of the Brighton Seaside Hotel!
As it was, she’d already soiled Basil’s trilby on the train trip down—the stylish hat had had to be discarded at the last station.
Thankfully, the emergency passed, and she postponed further humiliation. But her twelve-year-old adopted son, Scout; her sister-in-law, Felicia Gold; and the Dowager Lady Gold, Ginger’s grandmother-in-law, circled her with expressions of various degrees of mortification. Technically, Felicia and Ambrosia were no longer related to Ginger since the association had been with Ginger’s late husband, Daniel, Lord Gold. But to Ginger, they would always be family, and the two Gold ladies resided with Ginger and Basil at Hartigan House, their home in South Kensington. Boss, Ginger’s black-and-white Boston terrier, sat obediently on the pavement, staring up at his owner with round brown eyes.
Standing back from the group were two maids—Lizzie, petite with a pixie face, who worked for Ginger, and Langley, Ambrosia’s tall and sombre-faced lady’s maid.
“Are you all right, Ginger?” Felicia asked. A decade Ginger’s junior, Felicia wore a flowered chiffon day dress with a flaring tunic trimmed in ribbon and a matching skirt with scalloped tiers. Her pretty face—made-up with thin arches for brows, two pinkish circles on her cheeks, and red bow-like lips—flushed with something akin to dread. Not because Ginger was ill unto death, though she sometimes felt like it, but because she’d behaved uncharacteristically emotionally. Since she’d learned a baby was on the way—a tremendously happy surprise—Ginger had to confess she hadn’t quite been herself.
“Yes,” Ginger said, throwing her shoulders back. “I’m fine. The danger has passed.”
Ambrosia, standing more stiffly than a lady her age was meant to, had refused to consider leaving her corset behind and stubbornly insisted on dealing with the heat of this mid-June day by dabbing at her brow with a lace handkerchief. Leaning on a silver-handled walking stick, she sniffed. “Didn’t I say that travelling at this juncture of your delicacy was a bad idea?”
“I’m fine, Grandmother,” Ginger insisted. It’d been Basil’s suggestion they get away from London for a little relaxation, and Ginger had agreed. “I’m already invigorated by the sea air.” She turned to Basil and smiled. “Thank you for bringing us here.”
Basil’s eyes sparkled with fondness, and Ginger felt entirely cared for.
“Let’s get checked in then, shall we?” he said.
A porter opened the main doors, and Basil tipped him to bring in the stack of suitcases, trunks, and hat boxes delivered to the kerb by the three taxicab drivers it had taken to transport the Reed-Gold clan to the hotel.
In jest, he’d muttered into Ginger’s ear, “I thought we were staying for a week, not a month.”
“A lady can never be too prepared,” Ginger had returned. “A woman never knows what type of occasion she will be called to attend, and with the beach, there are extra outfits and costumes not normally needed elsewhere.”
The decision to take a family holiday had been rather impromptu, and Ginger had had little time to plan. Owning Feathers & Flair, her Regent Street dress shop, had made matters infinitely easier. She had made a telephone call to her competent manager, the fabulous Madame Roux, who pulled together an appropriate wardrobe.
The interior design of the Brighton Seaside Hotel was deliriously delightful. It was a grand house belonging to the well-heeled Winthrop family, who, since the war, had made America their home. Ginger thought the transformation into a luxurious, though small hotel, was a financially expedient move—certainly to earn more money for the family than simply renting it out—since the Brighton area was a coveted place for the English to holiday.
Carpeted with a luxurious tapestry design over polished hardwood floors, the entrance was vast. An impressive staircase wound up four storeys with an ornate greenish-blue railing of oxidised copper. Multiple chandeliers hung from high ceilings, which were lavishly decorated with carved mouldings.
The maids forgot themselves momentarily, letting expressions of disbelief wash over their plain faces. Scout, who’d only just recently adjusted to a life of means and who thought Hartigan House was a palace, grabbed Ginger’s hand. “I’ve never seen such a sight, Mum.”
Felicia let out a giggle of delight and turned to Basil. “How frightfully right you were, Basil. This was such a grand idea!”
Ambrosia shot Ginger a look, her pinched lips and wrinkled-faced nod a clear sign that the Dowager Lady Gold was eager to sign in and get to her room. Ginger nudged Basil who approached the reception desk.
“Reservation for Reed.”
A middle-aged man with thin dark hair oiled back over a round head, looked up. His pencil-thin moustache stretched out over a broad smile which wrinkled in the shape of a parenthesis at the corner of his lips. Dressed in the crisp black uniform of the manager, he held both hands clasped behind his back. With a slight bow, he replied, “Absolutely, sir. I’m Mr. Floyd, the manager here at the Brighton Seaside Hotel, and I’m at your service.” He ran a finger down the page of the opened registry book. “Yes, here it is. Party of five, and two lady’s maids.”
With a dollop of physical effort, the porter who’d greeted them at the door pushed the luggage trolley, overfilled with the Reed party’s belongings, towards the lift. With swift, short strides, Mr. Floyd approached the lad. “Second floor, suites two and three.”
The porter lifted his chin in acknowledgement and proceeded on his journey.
Once Basil had signed in the appropriate places, he asked the manager, “Where might I find a hatter? I’ve lost one of mine,” he explained graciously, “and I’d like to purchase another. A keepsake to remind me of our visit here.”
“There is a shop next door to the hotel, sir, that sells hats for men,” Mr. Floyd said. “You’ll find it and other convenient establishments along the promenade.” Handing Basil the room keys, he added, “If you’d like to wait a few minutes, the lift should be free. Please direct the porter to place your luggage exactly where you’d like it. I know you’ve brought your own maids—their room is on the attic floor—but should you need to call them, the suites have an efficient bell system. Mrs. Gwen Merrick, the housekeeper, will assign chambermaids for daily room attendance.”
“Thank you,” Basil said.
The maids were directed to the staff staircase, leaving the five to head towards the lift. The attendant opened brass gates on the lift doors and said to a lady getting out, “Have a good afternoon, Mrs. Bainbridge.”
Bainbridge. The name rang a tone of familiarity in Ginger’s mind. Hadn’t she read that name in the newspapers? Ginger tried to remember the article. That was it! A man by that name had gone missing recently in this region—had he been staying at this very hotel?
The young lady held a glove to her face, her eyes gazing downward. Eagerly, she darted out of the lift, into the lobby and straight into Ginger.
“Oh, please excuse me,” Mrs. Bainbridge said.
Ginger noted the lady’s teary eyes and unflattering frown. A silk oriental-print shawl with its long fringe was wrapped around her shoulders and didn’t conceal that the straight-line tunic of her frock pulled snugly against a rounded stomach. Mrs. Bainbridge is with child. Ginger felt an immediate affinity.
“It’s quite all right,” Ginger said. To Basil, she added quickly, “This lift isn’t large enough for all of us. I’ll wait for it to return.”
Basil’s hazel-eyed gaze moved from Ginger to Mrs. Bainbridge and back, then flashed with understanding.
Ginger loved how her husband knew her so well! He perceived that she wanted to talk to Mrs. Bainbridge.
“I’ll wait too,” Felicia said. The lift only held four people comfortably, and the attendant took up one of those spaces.
“Mrs. Bainbridge,” Ginger called out.
At the sound of her name, the dark-haired lady turned. “Do I know you?” She looked rather perplexed.
“We’ve not met officially,” Ginger said. She held out a gloved hand. “I’m Mrs. Reed. My family and I have just registered here. I couldn’t help but notice . . .” Ginger held her hand on her stomach, still flat. “I am as well. Is this your first?”
Mrs. Bainbridge blinked, and Ginger immediately became aware of her social faux pas, referring to the lady’s condition so lightly. She’d stepped into American-level propriety, a consequence of all the years she’d spent in Boston, but something she hadn’t done for quite some time. She began to apologise.
“I’m sorry—"
“No, it’s quite all right. This is my second, so I’m not nearly as sensitive about the topic, though my son is ten, so it’s been a while.”
“This is my first. I have an eleven-year-old son, but he’s adopted, so this is new. Perhaps you would share your tips over tea sometime?” Ginger’s request wasn’t completely benign. She had a frightful curiosity and wanted to hear about the missing man, should Mrs. Bainbridge feel relief in talking about him, of course.
Mrs. Bainbridge answered haltingly. “Yes. Perhaps.”
The attention of the entire foyer was suddenly captured by the sight of a very beautiful and glamorous blonde woman stepping down the staircase. With practised grace, the lady was clearly one used to commanding a room, and she had most definitely done that now.
Felicia moved to Ginger’s side and whispered excitedly in her ear, “That’s Poppy Kerslake!”
Miss Kerslake was a film star, and reports of her exploits dominated the society papers.
Mrs. Bainbridge laid eyes on the starlet, let out a stuttering sob, and then fled out of the front door of the hotel.
Ginger glanced over at Felicia. What kind of family drama had they stumbled into?
Mrs. Ginger Reed gripped her husband’s arm. Overcome with a nasty urge to vomit, she tried to steady herself to no avail. Her husband, Basil Reed, a chief inspector at Scotland Yard, stared down at her. His handsome face was etched with concern, his warm hazel eyes, round in question. “You’re not—”
Ginger held a gloved hand to her mouth and mumbled. “Uh-huh.” The former Lady Gold had been certain that she’d suffer mildly whilst travelling from London to Brighton in the afternoon—however, the mornings were the worst times. As she stared at the front entrance of the Victorian-style Brighton Seaside Hotel, she sensed the worst possible thing was about to happen.
Reaching for the first thing that would suit the present crisis, Basil grabbed a pot of pansies from the windowsill and held it by Ginger’s face. Ginger inhaled as she focused on the fragrance of the blossoms and not the bubbling acid in her stomach. She couldn’t possibly be sick in a flowerpot belonging to the management of the Brighton Seaside Hotel!
As it was, she’d already soiled Basil’s trilby on the train trip down—the stylish hat had had to be discarded at the last station.
Thankfully, the emergency passed, and she postponed further humiliation. But her twelve-year-old adopted son, Scout; her sister-in-law, Felicia Gold; and the Dowager Lady Gold, Ginger’s grandmother-in-law, circled her with expressions of various degrees of mortification. Technically, Felicia and Ambrosia were no longer related to Ginger since the association had been with Ginger’s late husband, Daniel, Lord Gold. But to Ginger, they would always be family, and the two Gold ladies resided with Ginger and Basil at Hartigan House, their home in South Kensington. Boss, Ginger’s black-and-white Boston terrier, sat obediently on the pavement, staring up at his owner with round brown eyes.
Standing back from the group were two maids—Lizzie, petite with a pixie face, who worked for Ginger, and Langley, Ambrosia’s tall and sombre-faced lady’s maid.
“Are you all right, Ginger?” Felicia asked. A decade Ginger’s junior, Felicia wore a flowered chiffon day dress with a flaring tunic trimmed in ribbon and a matching skirt with scalloped tiers. Her pretty face—made-up with thin arches for brows, two pinkish circles on her cheeks, and red bow-like lips—flushed with something akin to dread. Not because Ginger was ill unto death, though she sometimes felt like it, but because she’d behaved uncharacteristically emotionally. Since she’d learned a baby was on the way—a tremendously happy surprise—Ginger had to confess she hadn’t quite been herself.
“Yes,” Ginger said, throwing her shoulders back. “I’m fine. The danger has passed.”
Ambrosia, standing more stiffly than a lady her age was meant to, had refused to consider leaving her corset behind and stubbornly insisted on dealing with the heat of this mid-June day by dabbing at her brow with a lace handkerchief. Leaning on a silver-handled walking stick, she sniffed. “Didn’t I say that travelling at this juncture of your delicacy was a bad idea?”
“I’m fine, Grandmother,” Ginger insisted. It’d been Basil’s suggestion they get away from London for a little relaxation, and Ginger had agreed. “I’m already invigorated by the sea air.” She turned to Basil and smiled. “Thank you for bringing us here.”
Basil’s eyes sparkled with fondness, and Ginger felt entirely cared for.
“Let’s get checked in then, shall we?” he said.
A porter opened the main doors, and Basil tipped him to bring in the stack of suitcases, trunks, and hat boxes delivered to the kerb by the three taxicab drivers it had taken to transport the Reed-Gold clan to the hotel.
In jest, he’d muttered into Ginger’s ear, “I thought we were staying for a week, not a month.”
“A lady can never be too prepared,” Ginger had returned. “A woman never knows what type of occasion she will be called to attend, and with the beach, there are extra outfits and costumes not normally needed elsewhere.”
The decision to take a family holiday had been rather impromptu, and Ginger had had little time to plan. Owning Feathers & Flair, her Regent Street dress shop, had made matters infinitely easier. She had made a telephone call to her competent manager, the fabulous Madame Roux, who pulled together an appropriate wardrobe.
The interior design of the Brighton Seaside Hotel was deliriously delightful. It was a grand house belonging to the well-heeled Winthrop family, who, since the war, had made America their home. Ginger thought the transformation into a luxurious, though small hotel, was a financially expedient move—certainly to earn more money for the family than simply renting it out—since the Brighton area was a coveted place for the English to holiday.
Carpeted with a luxurious tapestry design over polished hardwood floors, the entrance was vast. An impressive staircase wound up four storeys with an ornate greenish-blue railing of oxidised copper. Multiple chandeliers hung from high ceilings, which were lavishly decorated with carved mouldings.
The maids forgot themselves momentarily, letting expressions of disbelief wash over their plain faces. Scout, who’d only just recently adjusted to a life of means and who thought Hartigan House was a palace, grabbed Ginger’s hand. “I’ve never seen such a sight, Mum.”
Felicia let out a giggle of delight and turned to Basil. “How frightfully right you were, Basil. This was such a grand idea!”
Ambrosia shot Ginger a look, her pinched lips and wrinkled-faced nod a clear sign that the Dowager Lady Gold was eager to sign in and get to her room. Ginger nudged Basil who approached the reception desk.
“Reservation for Reed.”
A middle-aged man with thin dark hair oiled back over a round head, looked up. His pencil-thin moustache stretched out over a broad smile which wrinkled in the shape of a parenthesis at the corner of his lips. Dressed in the crisp black uniform of the manager, he held both hands clasped behind his back. With a slight bow, he replied, “Absolutely, sir. I’m Mr. Floyd, the manager here at the Brighton Seaside Hotel, and I’m at your service.” He ran a finger down the page of the opened registry book. “Yes, here it is. Party of five, and two lady’s maids.”
With a dollop of physical effort, the porter who’d greeted them at the door pushed the luggage trolley, overfilled with the Reed party’s belongings, towards the lift. With swift, short strides, Mr. Floyd approached the lad. “Second floor, suites two and three.”
The porter lifted his chin in acknowledgement and proceeded on his journey.
Once Basil had signed in the appropriate places, he asked the manager, “Where might I find a hatter? I’ve lost one of mine,” he explained graciously, “and I’d like to purchase another. A keepsake to remind me of our visit here.”
“There is a shop next door to the hotel, sir, that sells hats for men,” Mr. Floyd said. “You’ll find it and other convenient establishments along the promenade.” Handing Basil the room keys, he added, “If you’d like to wait a few minutes, the lift should be free. Please direct the porter to place your luggage exactly where you’d like it. I know you’ve brought your own maids—their room is on the attic floor—but should you need to call them, the suites have an efficient bell system. Mrs. Gwen Merrick, the housekeeper, will assign chambermaids for daily room attendance.”
“Thank you,” Basil said.
The maids were directed to the staff staircase, leaving the five to head towards the lift. The attendant opened brass gates on the lift doors and said to a lady getting out, “Have a good afternoon, Mrs. Bainbridge.”
Bainbridge. The name rang a tone of familiarity in Ginger’s mind. Hadn’t she read that name in the newspapers? Ginger tried to remember the article. That was it! A man by that name had gone missing recently in this region—had he been staying at this very hotel?
The young lady held a glove to her face, her eyes gazing downward. Eagerly, she darted out of the lift, into the lobby and straight into Ginger.
“Oh, please excuse me,” Mrs. Bainbridge said.
Ginger noted the lady’s teary eyes and unflattering frown. A silk oriental-print shawl with its long fringe was wrapped around her shoulders and didn’t conceal that the straight-line tunic of her frock pulled snugly against a rounded stomach. Mrs. Bainbridge is with child. Ginger felt an immediate affinity.
“It’s quite all right,” Ginger said. To Basil, she added quickly, “This lift isn’t large enough for all of us. I’ll wait for it to return.”
Basil’s hazel-eyed gaze moved from Ginger to Mrs. Bainbridge and back, then flashed with understanding.
Ginger loved how her husband knew her so well! He perceived that she wanted to talk to Mrs. Bainbridge.
“I’ll wait too,” Felicia said. The lift only held four people comfortably, and the attendant took up one of those spaces.
“Mrs. Bainbridge,” Ginger called out.
At the sound of her name, the dark-haired lady turned. “Do I know you?” She looked rather perplexed.
“We’ve not met officially,” Ginger said. She held out a gloved hand. “I’m Mrs. Reed. My family and I have just registered here. I couldn’t help but notice . . .” Ginger held her hand on her stomach, still flat. “I am as well. Is this your first?”
Mrs. Bainbridge blinked, and Ginger immediately became aware of her social faux pas, referring to the lady’s condition so lightly. She’d stepped into American-level propriety, a consequence of all the years she’d spent in Boston, but something she hadn’t done for quite some time. She began to apologise.
“I’m sorry—"
“No, it’s quite all right. This is my second, so I’m not nearly as sensitive about the topic, though my son is ten, so it’s been a while.”
“This is my first. I have an eleven-year-old son, but he’s adopted, so this is new. Perhaps you would share your tips over tea sometime?” Ginger’s request wasn’t completely benign. She had a frightful curiosity and wanted to hear about the missing man, should Mrs. Bainbridge feel relief in talking about him, of course.
Mrs. Bainbridge answered haltingly. “Yes. Perhaps.”
The attention of the entire foyer was suddenly captured by the sight of a very beautiful and glamorous blonde woman stepping down the staircase. With practised grace, the lady was clearly one used to commanding a room, and she had most definitely done that now.
Felicia moved to Ginger’s side and whispered excitedly in her ear, “That’s Poppy Kerslake!”
Miss Kerslake was a film star, and reports of her exploits dominated the society papers.
Mrs. Bainbridge laid eyes on the starlet, let out a stuttering sob, and then fled out of the front door of the hotel.
Ginger glanced over at Felicia. What kind of family drama had they stumbled into?
August 3, 2020
Ginger and Basil are excited to finally get in some vacation time with the family. Young Scout has never been to the seaside and Ginger is eager for her new son to experience the childhood pleasures he missed out on. However, travel doesn't agree with Ginger now she's in delicate condition. Not even shopping can make her feel better but when she tries to befriend another woman at the hotel, she senses a mystery. Mrs. Bainbridge's name sounds so familiar. When Ginger learns Mrs. Bainbridge's brother-in-law is missing, it sparks an interest in her fellow vacationers. A sailing trip turns into a nightmare when something unexpected bobbles to the surface of the ocean. Basil and Ginger are alarmed at finding a dead body and go into detective mode to discover who killed the man and why. Ginger is extra motived to find the killer because Felicia is smitten with one of their suspects! On a dark and stormy day all the guests leave the hotel but the suspects, Ginger, Basil and Felicia and another dead body turns up. Something about Felicia's new beau niggles Ginger's mind. Can she remember him before Felicia comes to harm? Can Ginger and Basil weed out the motives and lies to determine which of their fellow holidaymakers is a murderer?
This series keeps getting better and better. The writing tone is still pretty light in spite of the Christie-esque atmosphere of being trapped in a location during a storm. The murders were pretty shocking. I did not guess whodunit but I wasn't surprised when all was revealed because I did think that person knew more than they were saying. I was surprised by some of the revelations and what happened when the murderer was caught. This story is a little sad and gruesome. As always, the setting is charming. I know a lot about Brighton in the Regency era but not a lot about 1920s Brighton. The beach setting was interesting, especially the description of the bathing suits! Poor Ambrosia would have apoplexy if she could see what people wear to the beach 100 years later!
What drives me crazy about this series is that the author, even after all this time, can not be bothered to look up how inheritance and titles work. If Daniel and Felicia's father was a Baron, then Daniel was a Baron and not Lord Gold. He was Baron someplace, Lord title. Some titles pass through the female line which would make Felicia a Baroness in her own right but this title does not seem to pass through the female line. Is there an heir? This lack of accuracy drives me up a wall. There's more errors with one of the guests. Lord Davenport-Witt can not call himself whatever he wants if he's the Earl of Wincanton. He's Lord Wincanton, not Lord Davenport-Witt and should be addressed as such. Basil's father, an "Honorable" does not have a title but is of nobility. Honorable isn't used in speech like that and no one would be all that impressed unless Basil was in line to inherit an Earldom or Barony.
Ginger has matured a lot now she's a mother and expecting a new baby. She's done her homework and learned about what pregnancy entails but she isn't quite prepared for how exhausted she is. I like that she doesn't try to do more than she's physically able or haring off on crazy adventures. However, what she does in the end is a little stupid and reckless. I'm DYING to know what she knows about Lord INCORRECT TITLE. I'm betting it has to do with her secret war work.
This time I enjoyed seeing some of the story from Basil's point-of-view. It shows what a great detective he is and how much he appreciates Ginger. Respect is important in a relationship. Ginger didn't know Daniel very well when she married him and then the war intervened. She's not the same person she was all those years ago. She's done a lot, seen a lot and experienced heartache too many times. Basil gets it because he shares some of that trauma and he respects her intelligence. He's very sweet and loving towards her. It was also nice to see him interact with Scout as a dad. It was fun to see Scout having fun with his dad, like a normal little boy raised in luxury. He seems to be becoming more used to his new situation. It will be interesting once the new baby arrives. I cheated and skimmed to find out more about the family in the 1950s! As always, Boss is adorable and so clever.
Felicia is still annoying. She's trying too hard to find a husband. What about the constable? Poor man! I know he's not considered suitable but I think Ambrosia would recover as long as Felicia was settled and happy. Throwing yourself at the first handsome man you meet on vacation is a bit to much, especially when he shows signs of having a girlfriend.
The Brighton Seaside Hotel is managed by a Mr. Floyd. He's a bit obsequious but I think he's overcompensating at times. He seems to be a nervous fellow and probably knows something about the murder. Mrs. Gwen Merrick, housekeeper, is not a warm, kind, welcoming lady. She seems sour, dour and shifty. I suspect her of listening in on people's conversations at best. Cooper, the porter, is in charge of the luggage and unfortunately that makes him a suspect in the murder investigation. When he isn't at work on the dark and stormy night, it makes him seem even more suspicious. Cooper seems like a hardworking, pleasant young man. Ginger doesn't want to suspect him but it sure seems like he had something to do with the murder. Mr. Weaver, the lift operator, sure likes to gossip. He shouldn't be talking about guests to other guests but this is a unique situation so I suppose it was all right.
The murder centers around the Bainbridge family. I feel sorry for Mrs. Bainbridge. First, she seems the only one worried about her brother-in-law. Second, her husband is a bully and a cad. He seems to care about her but I don't think he really loves her in the way Basil loves Ginger. Third, Mrs. B is in delicate condition and isn't feeling well. Ginger senses Mrs. B is hiding something. Austin Bainbridge, Quentin's brother, was not a nice man. He was a typical oldest son of the time- a care-for-nobody, playboy who dabbled in business just to look like he was doing something. Neither of the brothers sound appealing. I don't think Austin deserved to die though. He wasn't really any different from any of the other men of his class. Reggie Bainbridge is kind of spoiled and bratty. He's a fair weather friend to young Scout. Poor Scout! His first new friend his own age turns out to be as unpleasant as his father at times.
Poppy Kerslake is the complete opposite of Mrs. B. An actress and femme fatale, Poppy is awful. She flirts with any man she can get her hands on, preferably young and rich. I think she's a gold digger. She's the type who does NOT like other women and views them all as competition. Poppy is catty, petty, mean and possessive. The clues point to her having something to do with the murder.
Another suspect is Mr. Findley, a businessman. He's rude and unfriendly. Poppy seems uninterested in him in spite of the fact he's the only one with a job. Mr. F has a good reason to have hated Austin. It doesn't look good for Mr. F.!
There are some new policemen here. Detective Inspector Attwood is a nice change from the usual gruff, mean detective. He's more than happy to turn the case over to Scotland Yard and have Basil and Ginger do all the work. His constable James Clarke is nice but young and a bit naïve. I don't think they'd ever solve the case on their own.
I recommend this series to cozy mystery fans who want a light diversion. I am very eager to find out what happens next for Ginger before motherhood. Is she going to continue investigating once the baby is born?
This series keeps getting better and better. The writing tone is still pretty light in spite of the Christie-esque atmosphere of being trapped in a location during a storm. The murders were pretty shocking. I did not guess whodunit but I wasn't surprised when all was revealed because I did think that person knew more than they were saying. I was surprised by some of the revelations and what happened when the murderer was caught. This story is a little sad and gruesome. As always, the setting is charming. I know a lot about Brighton in the Regency era but not a lot about 1920s Brighton. The beach setting was interesting, especially the description of the bathing suits! Poor Ambrosia would have apoplexy if she could see what people wear to the beach 100 years later!
What drives me crazy about this series is that the author, even after all this time, can not be bothered to look up how inheritance and titles work. If Daniel and Felicia's father was a Baron, then Daniel was a Baron and not Lord Gold. He was Baron someplace, Lord title. Some titles pass through the female line which would make Felicia a Baroness in her own right but this title does not seem to pass through the female line. Is there an heir? This lack of accuracy drives me up a wall. There's more errors with one of the guests. Lord Davenport-Witt can not call himself whatever he wants if he's the Earl of Wincanton. He's Lord Wincanton, not Lord Davenport-Witt and should be addressed as such. Basil's father, an "Honorable" does not have a title but is of nobility. Honorable isn't used in speech like that and no one would be all that impressed unless Basil was in line to inherit an Earldom or Barony.
Ginger has matured a lot now she's a mother and expecting a new baby. She's done her homework and learned about what pregnancy entails but she isn't quite prepared for how exhausted she is. I like that she doesn't try to do more than she's physically able or haring off on crazy adventures. However, what she does in the end is a little stupid and reckless. I'm DYING to know what she knows about Lord INCORRECT TITLE. I'm betting it has to do with her secret war work.
This time I enjoyed seeing some of the story from Basil's point-of-view. It shows what a great detective he is and how much he appreciates Ginger. Respect is important in a relationship. Ginger didn't know Daniel very well when she married him and then the war intervened. She's not the same person she was all those years ago. She's done a lot, seen a lot and experienced heartache too many times. Basil gets it because he shares some of that trauma and he respects her intelligence. He's very sweet and loving towards her. It was also nice to see him interact with Scout as a dad. It was fun to see Scout having fun with his dad, like a normal little boy raised in luxury. He seems to be becoming more used to his new situation. It will be interesting once the new baby arrives. I cheated and skimmed to find out more about the family in the 1950s! As always, Boss is adorable and so clever.
Felicia is still annoying. She's trying too hard to find a husband. What about the constable? Poor man! I know he's not considered suitable but I think Ambrosia would recover as long as Felicia was settled and happy. Throwing yourself at the first handsome man you meet on vacation is a bit to much, especially when he shows signs of having a girlfriend.
The Brighton Seaside Hotel is managed by a Mr. Floyd. He's a bit obsequious but I think he's overcompensating at times. He seems to be a nervous fellow and probably knows something about the murder. Mrs. Gwen Merrick, housekeeper, is not a warm, kind, welcoming lady. She seems sour, dour and shifty. I suspect her of listening in on people's conversations at best. Cooper, the porter, is in charge of the luggage and unfortunately that makes him a suspect in the murder investigation. When he isn't at work on the dark and stormy night, it makes him seem even more suspicious. Cooper seems like a hardworking, pleasant young man. Ginger doesn't want to suspect him but it sure seems like he had something to do with the murder. Mr. Weaver, the lift operator, sure likes to gossip. He shouldn't be talking about guests to other guests but this is a unique situation so I suppose it was all right.
The murder centers around the Bainbridge family. I feel sorry for Mrs. Bainbridge. First, she seems the only one worried about her brother-in-law. Second, her husband is a bully and a cad. He seems to care about her but I don't think he really loves her in the way Basil loves Ginger. Third, Mrs. B is in delicate condition and isn't feeling well. Ginger senses Mrs. B is hiding something. Austin Bainbridge, Quentin's brother, was not a nice man. He was a typical oldest son of the time- a care-for-nobody, playboy who dabbled in business just to look like he was doing something. Neither of the brothers sound appealing. I don't think Austin deserved to die though. He wasn't really any different from any of the other men of his class. Reggie Bainbridge is kind of spoiled and bratty. He's a fair weather friend to young Scout. Poor Scout! His first new friend his own age turns out to be as unpleasant as his father at times.
Poppy Kerslake is the complete opposite of Mrs. B. An actress and femme fatale, Poppy is awful. She flirts with any man she can get her hands on, preferably young and rich. I think she's a gold digger. She's the type who does NOT like other women and views them all as competition. Poppy is catty, petty, mean and possessive. The clues point to her having something to do with the murder.
Another suspect is Mr. Findley, a businessman. He's rude and unfriendly. Poppy seems uninterested in him in spite of the fact he's the only one with a job. Mr. F has a good reason to have hated Austin. It doesn't look good for Mr. F.!
There are some new policemen here. Detective Inspector Attwood is a nice change from the usual gruff, mean detective. He's more than happy to turn the case over to Scotland Yard and have Basil and Ginger do all the work. His constable James Clarke is nice but young and a bit naïve. I don't think they'd ever solve the case on their own.
I recommend this series to cozy mystery fans who want a light diversion. I am very eager to find out what happens next for Ginger before motherhood. Is she going to continue investigating once the baby is born?
April 6, 2025
AGAIN using this book as a stand in for a Dramione lmao it’s called ‘Draco Malfoy and the case of the Brighton Beach Butcher’, read it on ao3 by augustaoctavia. The pulp fiction murder mystery aspect of this book was SO fun, the side characters were phenomenal the author made them feel just as important as the main characters. Overall loved it and can’t recommend enough
August 1, 2020
Entertaining!
Enjoy this series but found this one not as enjoyable as previous ones. Ginger is 4 months pregnant tired, and nauseous. Instead of resting, she runs around in her reckless fashion and endangers herself and her baby! Finale was stupid snooping on her part and very dangerous!
Enjoy this series but found this one not as enjoyable as previous ones. Ginger is 4 months pregnant tired, and nauseous. Instead of resting, she runs around in her reckless fashion and endangers herself and her baby! Finale was stupid snooping on her part and very dangerous!
May 9, 2022
I enjoyed this book and it is certainly a cosy mystery.
March 17, 2025
Good not great. Ginger and Felicia both were a bit annoying in this book. But the mystery element was good.
April 20, 2022
Another fun entry in this series!
August 9, 2020
Reading a book in this series is like settling in for a visit with old friends. The author keeps historical perspective throughout with appropriate social standards, speech, and dress. The mystery was well plotted.
Ginger and Basil are having a family vacation at a seaside resort along with Ambrosia, Felicia, and Scout. Before they have a chance to relax and enjoy themselves a guests body is discovered and the two sleuths are drawn in to solving the murder. When a second guest dies the duo feels the pressure to catch the killer before there is another victim.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Ginger and Basil are having a family vacation at a seaside resort along with Ambrosia, Felicia, and Scout. Before they have a chance to relax and enjoy themselves a guests body is discovered and the two sleuths are drawn in to solving the murder. When a second guest dies the duo feels the pressure to catch the killer before there is another victim.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
August 1, 2020
I’ve read all the books in this delightful series and this one was a bit different. Most of the normal characters in the series only made a brief appearance at the beginning of the book. Only Ginger, Basil, Felicia and Boss remained for the rest of the story. There were two murders in a seaside resort and all the suspects were required to remain on site until the murders were solved. To complicate the situation, Felicia is attracted to the highest ranking suspect and Ginger is pregnant. Of course Ginger and Basil, mostly working together, discovered the identity of the surprising killer and accomplice.
As usual for a Lee Strauss story, the characters are well developed and her descriptions of settings and costumes help the reader “see” the story. The plot was well developed and flowed in a logical manner. The end of the book set up the main storyline for the next book in the series which I look forward to reading.
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this engaging story.
As usual for a Lee Strauss story, the characters are well developed and her descriptions of settings and costumes help the reader “see” the story. The plot was well developed and flowed in a logical manner. The end of the book set up the main storyline for the next book in the series which I look forward to reading.
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this engaging story.
July 26, 2020
Watch out for the Stairs
This was an enjoyable light cozy read. I love these books. Kind of takes your mind off the times. Just sit down and transfer to a beautiful place.
The time is 1926, the place is Brighton Beach. The Reed's Basil, Ginger, Scout, Felicia, Ambrosia and of course Boss decide to have a holiday at the beach and check in at the Brighton Seaside Hotel. Their plans change when they find out the Bainbridge family has a missing family member and it turns out to be a murder. Events go downhill from there and it is a full investigation instead of a vacation.
I love the descriptions of the places and especially the fashions in the book. The descriptions of the bathing costumes and the dresses at the dance were fantastic. That dress Felicia wanted at the dress shop sounded marvelous, I could just picture it. My favorite was the description of the Royal Pavilion. Not only was I able to picture a place somewhere I will never be but at a time I will never live in. I travel to so many places with these books.
There is even an aura of Romance with Felicia's flirting, the Starlet and the mysterious Lord Davenport-Witt, who Ginger thinks she recognizes, but denies he ever met her. Much to Ginger's dismay Felicia seems taken with Lord Davenport-Witt.
This is an enjoyable fun read and I would recommend it .
Thanks to Lee Strauss for allowing me to read an advanced copy for an honest review.
This was an enjoyable light cozy read. I love these books. Kind of takes your mind off the times. Just sit down and transfer to a beautiful place.
The time is 1926, the place is Brighton Beach. The Reed's Basil, Ginger, Scout, Felicia, Ambrosia and of course Boss decide to have a holiday at the beach and check in at the Brighton Seaside Hotel. Their plans change when they find out the Bainbridge family has a missing family member and it turns out to be a murder. Events go downhill from there and it is a full investigation instead of a vacation.
I love the descriptions of the places and especially the fashions in the book. The descriptions of the bathing costumes and the dresses at the dance were fantastic. That dress Felicia wanted at the dress shop sounded marvelous, I could just picture it. My favorite was the description of the Royal Pavilion. Not only was I able to picture a place somewhere I will never be but at a time I will never live in. I travel to so many places with these books.
There is even an aura of Romance with Felicia's flirting, the Starlet and the mysterious Lord Davenport-Witt, who Ginger thinks she recognizes, but denies he ever met her. Much to Ginger's dismay Felicia seems taken with Lord Davenport-Witt.
This is an enjoyable fun read and I would recommend it .
Thanks to Lee Strauss for allowing me to read an advanced copy for an honest review.
July 27, 2020
Murder at Brighton Beach is the 11th book in the Ginger Gold Mystery series. The series takes place in 1920's England. In this volume Ginger and Basil take their extended family for a vacation at Brighton Beach. Upon their arrival at their luxury hotel they discover a guest has gone missing. While on a sailing day trip Basil and GInger's adopted son Scout sees a floating trunk. When the trunk is opened they find the missing guest.
Basil as a Scotland yard inspector already on site joins the team to find the killer. Ginger as usual helps with the case.
There are many suspects: a starlet, an Earl, his business partner and even the deceased brother.
A delightful mystery with a twist.
Lee Strauss always pays great attention to detail. The descriptions of Brighton Beach allow you to feel that you are there. Her descriptions of the clothing of the time is accurate and very detailed. The characters are well written and enjoyable.
Her sister in law Felicia is humorous as she falls for every handsome man suitable or not. I am curious to see how she eventually meets her future husband.
Basil as a Scotland yard inspector already on site joins the team to find the killer. Ginger as usual helps with the case.
There are many suspects: a starlet, an Earl, his business partner and even the deceased brother.
A delightful mystery with a twist.
Lee Strauss always pays great attention to detail. The descriptions of Brighton Beach allow you to feel that you are there. Her descriptions of the clothing of the time is accurate and very detailed. The characters are well written and enjoyable.
Her sister in law Felicia is humorous as she falls for every handsome man suitable or not. I am curious to see how she eventually meets her future husband.
July 30, 2020
Holiday at Brighton Beach becomes a murder mystery.
Basil and Ginger, along with Ambrosia and Felicia, and of course Scout and Boss planned a beach holiday which got cut short because of a murder.
The whole party was in attendance of the Brighten Beach Hotel, an old mansion made over into a high end luxury hotel.
In attendance were the Bainbridge's, but there was the missing brother, Austin,
The movie star Poppy Kerslake, Mr. Findly, a business associate, and Lord Davenport-Witt.
While the family was out sailing, a trunk, belonging to Poppy, floats to the surface, with the body of the missing brother.
Poppy and Austin were a known item.
The plot thickens!!
Lee writes a delightful cozy with all the drama and intrigue.
Basil and Ginger, along with Ambrosia and Felicia, and of course Scout and Boss planned a beach holiday which got cut short because of a murder.
The whole party was in attendance of the Brighten Beach Hotel, an old mansion made over into a high end luxury hotel.
In attendance were the Bainbridge's, but there was the missing brother, Austin,
The movie star Poppy Kerslake, Mr. Findly, a business associate, and Lord Davenport-Witt.
While the family was out sailing, a trunk, belonging to Poppy, floats to the surface, with the body of the missing brother.
Poppy and Austin were a known item.
The plot thickens!!
Lee writes a delightful cozy with all the drama and intrigue.
July 31, 2020
The Reed family decide to go to Brighton Beach for some sun and relaxation and rest. Lady Gold is pregnant and not feeling up to her normal self, but that only slows her down, not stop her. When a missing man is found in a clothes trunk out on the sea, it is now murder. Reed is asked to help out with the investigation, and there is someone whom Lady Gold believes she knows but can't place. She does know she doesn't like him. Could he be the killer? Lots of fashion along in this story. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
July 29, 2020
Murder at Brighton Beach is another entertaining whodunit in the Ginger Gold series. Once again the descriptive narrative transports the reader to 1920's England, this time to a ritzy hotel at Brighton Beach. Basil and Ginger soon find themselves solving another murder when a body of a missing hotel guest is discovered. The plot is interesting and fast paced as the duo work their way eliminating the multiple suspects . I always eagerly await the next book and recommend this engaging series.
July 27, 2020
Another great Ginger Gold read! This book was a nice change of pace as the family went to the seaside and still found murder in their wake. Ginger and Basil continue to work together as a crime stopping duo. This novel continues to show the characters evolution. I can’t wait for the next great read. Honestly reading Lee Strauss books just make me plain happy and content. What more could you want from a cozy mystery?
July 22, 2020
I was fortunate to get an ARC of this wonderful book!
It was great to go back to Ginger's world again - like visiting an old friend you haven't seen in a while.
This particular tale reminded me of classic Agatha Christie novels. You are kept guessing right up to the end.
Ginger's and Basil's story line continues to advance, and I look forward to seeing the time between these books and the Rosa Reed series play out.
Once again, an excellent offering from Lee Strauss.
It was great to go back to Ginger's world again - like visiting an old friend you haven't seen in a while.
This particular tale reminded me of classic Agatha Christie novels. You are kept guessing right up to the end.
Ginger's and Basil's story line continues to advance, and I look forward to seeing the time between these books and the Rosa Reed series play out.
Once again, an excellent offering from Lee Strauss.
August 15, 2020
This is the 13th book in the Ginger Gold series- but no unlucky 13 here. (Unless it’s for Ginger, Basil et al, caught up in another murder while trying to enjoy the pleasures of Brighton Beach!)
I say it each time, but the series just keeps getting better. I hate it when having started well, a series gets rather dull, repetitious or a bit churned-out feeling. (You know what I mean?) That never ever happens with Ginger Gold, or Lee Strauss’s other series either. Each plot is intriguing, with twists and turns that keep me guessing. Each setting is wonderful- and as a Brit I‘m lucky enough to have been to almost all the locations Ginger has so far found herself embroiled in murders! The historical detail is brilliantly researched and never overdone. And the world of regular characters she creates is like visiting old friends.
Murder on Brighton Beach has a special appeal to me as it has more of an Agatha Christie vibe to the plot than usual... any lovers of the Queen of Crime will know what I mean!
Enjoy it! I certainly did :) Like another reviewer said, I would love the Ginger Gold series to be made into a tv series. (Complete with all the hints about Ginger’s secret service past.) It would be a hit! But I’ll always enjoy the books most :)
I say it each time, but the series just keeps getting better. I hate it when having started well, a series gets rather dull, repetitious or a bit churned-out feeling. (You know what I mean?) That never ever happens with Ginger Gold, or Lee Strauss’s other series either. Each plot is intriguing, with twists and turns that keep me guessing. Each setting is wonderful- and as a Brit I‘m lucky enough to have been to almost all the locations Ginger has so far found herself embroiled in murders! The historical detail is brilliantly researched and never overdone. And the world of regular characters she creates is like visiting old friends.
Murder on Brighton Beach has a special appeal to me as it has more of an Agatha Christie vibe to the plot than usual... any lovers of the Queen of Crime will know what I mean!
Enjoy it! I certainly did :) Like another reviewer said, I would love the Ginger Gold series to be made into a tv series. (Complete with all the hints about Ginger’s secret service past.) It would be a hit! But I’ll always enjoy the books most :)
January 18, 2021
Ok spoiler alert Ginger is pregnant! Who didn't see that coming? Anyway this was a good mystery. My only complaints are that the love between Ginger and Basil is getting a little cloying and Scout... Let's talk about the poor fellow. A street urchin transformed into Little Lord Fauntleroy within a year!! He even lost his accent! Plus he has no friends his age and just plays with a dog and horse while the other house members either resent him or make it clear he's not worthy, poor kid. At times it seems Ginger gives more affection and attention to her dog Boss than poor Scout! But I did enjoy the actual story lots of characters so lots of suspects. These characters all had many secrets of their own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2021
Another good cozy historical mystery! I adore this cozy historical mystery series. Lady Gold is such a delight and I find her character believable. The mystery is always enough to keep me intrigued and the plot enjoyable. This story was no exception.
While the plot has the Reed’s and Gold’s away on holiday the author still manages to include the wonderful fashion and elegance of the 1920s. I felt swept away to that decade and imagined my grandmother as Ginger Reed. Something I do every time I read a book in this series.
I don’t want to go into much detail and give away spoilers. If cozy, time period, mysteries are your cup of tea then this series and this book should be in your TBR pile.
While the plot has the Reed’s and Gold’s away on holiday the author still manages to include the wonderful fashion and elegance of the 1920s. I felt swept away to that decade and imagined my grandmother as Ginger Reed. Something I do every time I read a book in this series.
I don’t want to go into much detail and give away spoilers. If cozy, time period, mysteries are your cup of tea then this series and this book should be in your TBR pile.
September 22, 2024
Another middling entry in the series. I did like the look at Brighton in the '20s so there was that. And Ginger is being portrayed very realistically in terms of her pregnancy (aside from the not drinking - very historically inaccurate!) but that aside the resolution of the mystery broke one of the most basic rules of mystery writing Another negative for me was that the family of the murdered man seemed remarkably unaffected by his death, especially by the way in which the body was discovered. Very callous and unfeeling. I get that the author didn't want to focus on a family in mourning but even so...
August 23, 2020
A Fall from Grace
A nice addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery series. A holiday for the Reed & Gold families goes awry when Austin Bainbridge, missing for some time, is found dead in a floating trunk belonging to starlet Poppy Kerslake. Staying at the same hotel as Ginger & Basil's group is the brother of the dead man along with his family & Austin's business partner. A rivalry for the attention of Lord Davenport-Witt springs up between Ginger's sister-in-law, Felicia & Poppy. When Poppy is found dead at the foot of the hotel staircase, the race is on to find the killer. With all who knew Bainbridge suspects, Ginger worries if Felicia is losing her heart to a killer
A nice addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery series. A holiday for the Reed & Gold families goes awry when Austin Bainbridge, missing for some time, is found dead in a floating trunk belonging to starlet Poppy Kerslake. Staying at the same hotel as Ginger & Basil's group is the brother of the dead man along with his family & Austin's business partner. A rivalry for the attention of Lord Davenport-Witt springs up between Ginger's sister-in-law, Felicia & Poppy. When Poppy is found dead at the foot of the hotel staircase, the race is on to find the killer. With all who knew Bainbridge suspects, Ginger worries if Felicia is losing her heart to a killer
August 25, 2020
Another winner in the Ginger Gold series. This time Brighton Beach is the setting and even though Ginger, who is in an 'interesting condition' and her family are only there for a bit of relaxation and fresh sea air a murder investigation is, inevitably, thrust upon her... and Basil. As always Lee Strauss sets the scene and creates the atmosphere of the times masterfully. The scene in the hotel where, the atmosphere heavy and oppressive, a storm raging outside and the electric lights flicker and go out plunging everything into darkness which is rent by an unearthly scream is one of my favourites.
I read this as an ARC but this review is voluntary and my honest opinion.
I read this as an ARC but this review is voluntary and my honest opinion.
August 22, 2021
Enjoyable characters
I do like the Lady Gold mysteries and enjoy the back stories of the characters, as well as the mysteries. However, I do wish the author would not repeat background historical information re each character, in every book. It gets tedious. An end note of all the repetitive information at the back of each book would be a boon when reading all the books in the series. Also “ I am sorry for your loss” is a relatively new American phrase and unlikely to have been used in the 1920s. “Please accept my condolences “ would, perhaps be more acceptably formal for the era.
I do like the Lady Gold mysteries and enjoy the back stories of the characters, as well as the mysteries. However, I do wish the author would not repeat background historical information re each character, in every book. It gets tedious. An end note of all the repetitive information at the back of each book would be a boon when reading all the books in the series. Also “ I am sorry for your loss” is a relatively new American phrase and unlikely to have been used in the 1920s. “Please accept my condolences “ would, perhaps be more acceptably formal for the era.
September 30, 2024
3 stars.
Basil took the whole family to Brighton for a holiday and stayed in a hotel where a man has gone missing. Then the film starlet who was linked to the missing man fell from the staircase and died as well. Thus, a peaceful getaway became another investigation for Basil and Ginger.
This is the book where Felicia meets an intriguing Earl, much to her grandmother's delight. However, not only is the Earl one of the prime suspects, but Ginger is also sure she's seen him before and doesn't trust him.
I think the clues were more obvious in this one, and Ginger made one of those really dumb heroine moves that made me shook my head. But I guess it gave us a climatic ending.
Basil took the whole family to Brighton for a holiday and stayed in a hotel where a man has gone missing. Then the film starlet who was linked to the missing man fell from the staircase and died as well. Thus, a peaceful getaway became another investigation for Basil and Ginger.
This is the book where Felicia meets an intriguing Earl, much to her grandmother's delight. However, not only is the Earl one of the prime suspects, but Ginger is also sure she's seen him before and doesn't trust him.
I think the clues were more obvious in this one, and Ginger made one of those really dumb heroine moves that made me shook my head. But I guess it gave us a climatic ending.
June 26, 2025
family outing with murder.....of course the detective stay to figure it out but the kids must go home.
Felicia...is this really a name from that era? I really think she has no idea how to not act out. Also, what is with the eyes of some old titled man is in love with her at first sight? kind of like a hussy.
so it turns out the murdered victim is not a good man at all. not to say he deserve to be killed that way but it is a no brainer that he is killed. He is kind of asking to be killed. a trickster against a professional killer, who is going to win?
good thing, Basil and Ginger is on the case
Felicia...is this really a name from that era? I really think she has no idea how to not act out. Also, what is with the eyes of some old titled man is in love with her at first sight? kind of like a hussy.
so it turns out the murdered victim is not a good man at all. not to say he deserve to be killed that way but it is a no brainer that he is killed. He is kind of asking to be killed. a trickster against a professional killer, who is going to win?
good thing, Basil and Ginger is on the case
July 22, 2025
I have really enjoyed every story in this series and this was no exception. Unfortunately, Basil and, surprise, a pregnant Ginger ended up solving a murder while on a seaside vacation. While enjoying a boat ride with acquaintances, Scout and a new friend noticed a trunk floating on the waves which turned out to have a body inside. Other "accidents" happened at the hotel that were either related to the body in the trunk or a coincidence? Even though the murderer was discovered, there were 2 sad endings. I'm looking forward to reading the next story to find out if Ginger remembers where she has met Lord Davenport-Witt!
December 21, 2020
I love the books in the Ginger Gold series, and this book was as enjoyable as the rest! Ginger, Basil, Scout, Felicia and Ambrosia head to the beach for a vacation, however it is anything but a relaxing getaway. Ginger and Basil start investigating the disappearance of another hotel guest, while Felicia manages to make sure she is always in the middle of the action. As always, the characters and adventure make for a very enjoyable read!
February 1, 2022
Serendipitous, serendipitous, and more serendipitous
Use of this word is becoming untolerable. Seems the author does not know any other "Big Words".
The overuse of the word is quite annoying. It's like reading book 1 all over again.
The mystery is pretty good, but the writing seems to get worse with each book.
Not sure if I want to continue reading this author's work. Too bad.
Use of this word is becoming untolerable. Seems the author does not know any other "Big Words".
The overuse of the word is quite annoying. It's like reading book 1 all over again.
The mystery is pretty good, but the writing seems to get worse with each book.
Not sure if I want to continue reading this author's work. Too bad.
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