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Bespoke #1
Bespoke
He's been sent from Scotland Yard to solve a case of blackmail in the Yorkshire Dales; she's just opened her own business in York baking bespoke cakes. He wants a peaceful life; she's aiming for revolution. He likes to keep both feet on the ground; she dreams of scandalizing the neighborhood on a bicycle. He prefers to fade in with the wallpaper; she's proud to be a black sheep that stands out in the crowd.He's never getting married again—most women ought to be stamped on the forehead with a danger warning and clapped into handcuffs. She thinks men are simply an obstacle to her ambitions and if it's true that the way to a man's heart is through his digestive system, that explains why a great deal of gaseous waste frequently finds its path out of the wrong end. The two of them might appear to be mismatched flavors in an unlikely recipe, but when blackmail turns to murder, it's the start of a remarkable partnership in crime-solving. And a match made in chocolate.It's late Victorian England and the world may be on the cusp of change, but is it quite ready for this pairing? They're not even prepared for it themselves. Nevertheless, some wayward kind of chemistry keeps drawing them together and it can't be blamed entirely on the cake. Or the corpse in the conservatory.
459 pages, Paperback
First published February 20, 2019
19 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 19, 2019
Yorkshire, 1893
Bespoke is a clever and imaginative historical mystery written in a breezy and smooth prose, making the most of the quirky Victoriana bits and the subtly irreverent, humorous atmosphere it is set in.
I found everything amusing and enjoyable, from the erratic and whimsical characters to the budding romance between two intelligent outsiders with a past forming the unlikely sleuthing partnership of gruff inspector Ptolemy (or Tolly) Deverell and scandalous bakery owner Miss Lucy Greenwood. They made for some lovely banter and romantic interludes while the twisty developments leading to the resolution of the murder kept me equally entertained.
Will surely be reading book 2 to see what Lucy and Tolly are up to next.
April 20, 2019
(4.5 stars) If such things exist, I'd say Fresina writes "bespoke novels," tailored just for me. She keeps me on my toes when I read, rather than boring me with predictable plots, cookie-cutter characters, sex scene filler, or cutesy animals and children. Oftentimes I don't know where she's taking me in the read, with many of her more recent novels somewhat paranormal, with time tripping or ghostly elements.
Well, this new novel is a relatively straightforward historical mystery, with nothing of the paranormal. It is also a romance, but not of the sexy, heated variety that most HR readers want to read. The sexual tension here revolves around whether or not they will ever even kiss (it's at about 88%, FYI.) There are no "naughty" bits fitting together, no definitive declarations of love or a ride off into the HEA, no epilogue in which the H and h are surrounded by cute rugrats, cute pets, and endless sexual attraction for each other. But the romance and love is there, nonetheless. I can read between the lines.
But first and foremost this is a murder mystery and a quite convoluted one at that. If you want to solve this on your own (and it is possible to do so), you have to pay close attention to many details thrown out there into the clever story.
Our H here is Inspector Ptolemy (Tolly) Deverell, grandson of True Deverell. (Fresina fans will be familiar with the Deverell family but you don't have to be to read this.) Tolly is a Scotland Yard inspector who's been through a rough patch lately, losing his wife and daughter and being stabbed and shot in the line of duty. So his London superiors send him to Yorkshire to investigate some blackmail letters received by a very rich and influential man of the area, Ezra Welford. It is hoped that the slower pace of life in York will help Tolly to recover from his physical and emotional wounds.
Our heroine is Miss Lucy Greenwood, 28 years old, daughter of the cook at the Foxworth estate. Lucy's education was sponsored by Lady Foxworth. She worked as a teacher for a while but is now the new, proud owner of Bespoke Temptations, a bakery which provides bespoke cakes for special occasions. Lucy is a bit of a revolutionary. She's independent, stubborn, unmarried with no wish to wed, and, shockingly, has attended meetings of the National Society for Women's Suffrage. In spite of being a member of the Radical Dress Society, she dresses smartly and fashionably and, as gossipy folks at the Post Office have found out, she orders expensive fancy lace underthings from Lockreedy and Velder's Emporium in London. (This place should ring a bell if you have read THE SNOW ANGEL, BTW.) Lucy is considered to be scandalous by all the owners of shops around hers and their wives.
Tolly's blackmail investigation turns into a murder mystery, upon discovery of the dead body of Lady Isola, Ezra Welford's wife, and the curious fall from the sky of a foot not belonging to said lady. Who could that foot belong to? And how did Lady Isola die? Was it poison? There was a piece of cake from Bespoke Temptations right beside her body. Is Lucy a suspect?
It's up to Tolly to discover the truth. Some of the local police resent him and obstruct. One young constable is a charming helper. And then there's Lucy, amateur sleuth and lover of the Sherlock Holmes stories, who wants in on the investigation, sure she can be of help. Tolly is not so sure.
Lots of quirky characters here, as is usual in a Fresina novel. Everybody is well developed and with a unique personality. There's Lucy's cousin Minerva, Lucy's bakeshop assistant Mary, all the members of the Welford family, a young doctor and Lucy's suitor, many servants and staff at Welford Hall. They all supplied me with an interesting read and a variety of suspects to choose from as murderer.
I'm hoping this is the start to a historical mystery/romance series and that there will be more collaborations between Lucy and Tolly, somewhat along the line of Jane Steen's new Lady Helena series. I confess to liking the Lucy/Tolly relationship more than that of Steen's H and h, but I'd like to read more books from both authors.
Well, this new novel is a relatively straightforward historical mystery, with nothing of the paranormal. It is also a romance, but not of the sexy, heated variety that most HR readers want to read. The sexual tension here revolves around whether or not they will ever even kiss (it's at about 88%, FYI.) There are no "naughty" bits fitting together, no definitive declarations of love or a ride off into the HEA, no epilogue in which the H and h are surrounded by cute rugrats, cute pets, and endless sexual attraction for each other. But the romance and love is there, nonetheless. I can read between the lines.
But first and foremost this is a murder mystery and a quite convoluted one at that. If you want to solve this on your own (and it is possible to do so), you have to pay close attention to many details thrown out there into the clever story.
Our H here is Inspector Ptolemy (Tolly) Deverell, grandson of True Deverell. (Fresina fans will be familiar with the Deverell family but you don't have to be to read this.) Tolly is a Scotland Yard inspector who's been through a rough patch lately, losing his wife and daughter and being stabbed and shot in the line of duty. So his London superiors send him to Yorkshire to investigate some blackmail letters received by a very rich and influential man of the area, Ezra Welford. It is hoped that the slower pace of life in York will help Tolly to recover from his physical and emotional wounds.
Our heroine is Miss Lucy Greenwood, 28 years old, daughter of the cook at the Foxworth estate. Lucy's education was sponsored by Lady Foxworth. She worked as a teacher for a while but is now the new, proud owner of Bespoke Temptations, a bakery which provides bespoke cakes for special occasions. Lucy is a bit of a revolutionary. She's independent, stubborn, unmarried with no wish to wed, and, shockingly, has attended meetings of the National Society for Women's Suffrage. In spite of being a member of the Radical Dress Society, she dresses smartly and fashionably and, as gossipy folks at the Post Office have found out, she orders expensive fancy lace underthings from Lockreedy and Velder's Emporium in London. (This place should ring a bell if you have read THE SNOW ANGEL, BTW.) Lucy is considered to be scandalous by all the owners of shops around hers and their wives.
Tolly's blackmail investigation turns into a murder mystery, upon discovery of the dead body of Lady Isola, Ezra Welford's wife, and the curious fall from the sky of a foot not belonging to said lady. Who could that foot belong to? And how did Lady Isola die? Was it poison? There was a piece of cake from Bespoke Temptations right beside her body. Is Lucy a suspect?
It's up to Tolly to discover the truth. Some of the local police resent him and obstruct. One young constable is a charming helper. And then there's Lucy, amateur sleuth and lover of the Sherlock Holmes stories, who wants in on the investigation, sure she can be of help. Tolly is not so sure.
Lots of quirky characters here, as is usual in a Fresina novel. Everybody is well developed and with a unique personality. There's Lucy's cousin Minerva, Lucy's bakeshop assistant Mary, all the members of the Welford family, a young doctor and Lucy's suitor, many servants and staff at Welford Hall. They all supplied me with an interesting read and a variety of suspects to choose from as murderer.
I'm hoping this is the start to a historical mystery/romance series and that there will be more collaborations between Lucy and Tolly, somewhat along the line of Jane Steen's new Lady Helena series. I confess to liking the Lucy/Tolly relationship more than that of Steen's H and h, but I'd like to read more books from both authors.
December 10, 2019
Lovely, lovely, lovely!!!
A perfect read for those who enjoy a fun mistery with excellent dialogue and smart MCs!
A perfect read for those who enjoy a fun mistery with excellent dialogue and smart MCs!
April 3, 2019
The blurb from this novel sounded very much like what I needed - a crime mystery in the style of Agatha Christie, two main characters at odds with the 'norm’, and a little sprinkling of romance. Well, Fresina delivered!
As soon as Lucy Greenwood appeared on the page, I was sold :O) Here is a very likeable protagonist, and not just for her skill in pastry making (this book will totally make you hungry). I enjoyed seeing her very modern rebellion against the late nineteenth century social mores. Yes, she is very funny with it too, but her battle is no laughing matter. Detective Inspector Deverell is not as flamboyant but nonetheless compelling, for very different reasons. Here is someone who is also an outsider, and not just for having foreign blood in his family, or being a Londoner in the North. No, he is carrying heavy emotional baggage. This however doesn’t stop him investigating the present crime and sorting through the innumerable lies thrown at him. Naturally, these two end up ‘partnering up’, to great effect.
I really enjoyed it and hope the author writes a follow-up.
As soon as Lucy Greenwood appeared on the page, I was sold :O) Here is a very likeable protagonist, and not just for her skill in pastry making (this book will totally make you hungry). I enjoyed seeing her very modern rebellion against the late nineteenth century social mores. Yes, she is very funny with it too, but her battle is no laughing matter. Detective Inspector Deverell is not as flamboyant but nonetheless compelling, for very different reasons. Here is someone who is also an outsider, and not just for having foreign blood in his family, or being a Londoner in the North. No, he is carrying heavy emotional baggage. This however doesn’t stop him investigating the present crime and sorting through the innumerable lies thrown at him. Naturally, these two end up ‘partnering up’, to great effect.
I really enjoyed it and hope the author writes a follow-up.
March 9, 2019
Jayne Fresina is a gifted writer who never fails to surprise with the unique twists and turns of her stories. Set in the late 19th century, Bespoke is equal parts historical romance and Victorian country house mystery. It takes place in Yorkshire, complete with gruesome murders, a Scotland Yard detective, and an incredibly eccentric family of suspects who are none of them quite what they seem.
The heroine of the novel--and love interest for our intrepid detective--is one Miss Lucy Greenwood, proprietor of an elegant little cake shop called Bespoke Temptations. (Warning: if you are, like me, susceptible to literary induced cravings, you should know that this novel contains decadent descriptions of chocolate fondant, marzipan, orange creams and icings and glazes. I couldn't read it without having some sweets nearby.)
Lucy and Detective Inspector Ptolemy "Tolly" Deverell make a delightful pair. And the murder mystery itself is fascinating as it unfolds with all of its twists and turns. To me, Bespoke was in the true spirit of an Agatha Christie country house mystery with the added bonus of a sweet romance and Fresina's unmatched power of description and wit. I enjoyed every bit of this story. I only wish I'd had some of that fancy cake on hand to eat while I read it.
The heroine of the novel--and love interest for our intrepid detective--is one Miss Lucy Greenwood, proprietor of an elegant little cake shop called Bespoke Temptations. (Warning: if you are, like me, susceptible to literary induced cravings, you should know that this novel contains decadent descriptions of chocolate fondant, marzipan, orange creams and icings and glazes. I couldn't read it without having some sweets nearby.)
Lucy and Detective Inspector Ptolemy "Tolly" Deverell make a delightful pair. And the murder mystery itself is fascinating as it unfolds with all of its twists and turns. To me, Bespoke was in the true spirit of an Agatha Christie country house mystery with the added bonus of a sweet romance and Fresina's unmatched power of description and wit. I enjoyed every bit of this story. I only wish I'd had some of that fancy cake on hand to eat while I read it.
September 29, 2019
Puedes encontrar esta reseña en español al final.
This is the first story by this author that I have read, and it has left me delighted. I did not expect it, really, and less because of the confusing beginning.
It may be somewhat idiomatic (English is not my mother tongue) but the first two chapters were excessive. With very long sentences, full of adjectives and with so many literary figures that I needed to read some paragraphs/sentences twice to fully understand them.
I guess it will be a author´s thing. It will be something predictable to her fans, for me it was not and almost, almost threw in the towel. (So glad I didn´t!)
Of course, as soon as the MC´s show and the plot begins to flow the prose changes. Not quite entirely, but in a much more subtle manner.
Apart from all of the above, the story is the most original and interesting one I've read in a long time. The characters are lovely, the mystery is like the ones in Agatha Christie´s novels, in which as important is to know who the bad guys are as the motives they had. And the end, well, the truth is that the end has been fabulous. It has left me speechless. It had been a while since I had read something so good.
Actually, everything in this story is novel; Its protagonists are very far from the stereotypes of the time, and what in less skilled hands would have been a fiasco, or as the connoisseurs would say, people of this century dressed up, here has been an interesting and realistic study of how things (and people) did not always fit in the pre-established molds.
I loved the heroine and I loved the hero. But go ahead that heroines as special as Lucy I can count them, unfortunately, on the fingers of one hand.
The secondary characters are also so interesting and complement the story perfectly. It seems that Ms. Fresina leaves nothing to chance. She takes care of even the smallest details. Something to be thankful for and not very usual in this genre.
In short, a complex and complete, charming and entertaining story that has left me wanting more.
The only thing I do not forgive the author is that she did not write a proper epilogue. The most unusual couple of all Romancelandia and we were left with not even a glimpse of their everyday life…
*sigh*
***
Esta es la primera historia de esta autora que leo y me ha dejado encantada. No me lo esperaba, la verdad, y menos por lo confuso del comienzo.
Puede que sea algo idiomático (inglés no es mi lengua materna) pero los dos primeros capítulos fueron excesivos. Frases larguísimas, recargadas de adjetivos y con tantas figuras literarias que necesité leer dos veces algunos párrafos/frases para pillarlas.
Imagino que será un recurso de la autora. Para sus fans será algo predecible, para mí no lo fue y casi, casi que lo dejo a medias.
Eso sí, en cuanto aparecen los protagonistas y la trama empieza a fluir eso se acaba. No del todo, pero es mucho más sutil.
Aparte de todo esto, la historia es de lo más original e interesante que he leído en mucho tiempo. Los personajes son encantadores, el misterio como una de esas novelas de Agatha Christie, donde tan importante es saber quién es el malo como los motivos. Y el final, bueno, la verdad que el final ha sido fabuloso. Me ha dejado boquiabierta. Hacía tiempo que no leía algo tan bueno, tan currado.
Realmente todo en esta historia es novedoso; sus protagonistas están muy lejos de los estereotipos de la época, y lo que en manos menos acertadas hubiese sido un fiasco, o como dicen las entendidas, gente de este siglo con disfraz, aquí ha sido un estudio interesante y realista de cómo las cosas (y las personas) no siempre cabían en los moldes preestablecidos. Me ha encantado la heroína y me ha encantado el héroe. Pero vaya por delante que heroínas tan especiales como Lucy las puedo contar, desgraciadamente, con los dedos de una mano, y a lo peor hasta me sobra alguno…
Los secundarios también son muy interesantes y complementan la historia a la perfección. Parece ser que la señora Fresina no deja nada al azar. Todo está estudiado hasta el último milímetro. Algo de agradecer y no muy usual en este género.
En fin, una historia compleja y completa, encantadora y entretenida que me ha dejado con ganas de más.
Lo único que no le perdono a la autora es que no haya escrito un epílogo adecuado. La pareja más inusual de todo Romancelandia y nos quedamos sin vivir su día a día, aunque sólo sea por un ratito…
April 1, 2019
Tailor-made for the Discerning Palate
There is one thing I can always be sure of when I read an HR by Jayne Fresina, and that is, it will be different from anything I have read before. Fresina’s stories are not formulaic. They are different, intoxicating, sensual, extremely witty, funny, sad, imaginative, well-written, and beguiling. Oh, and the covers are always a delightful bonus.
Detective Inspector “Tolly” Deverell, our H, has been sent from Scotland Yard to Yorkshire to solve a case of blackmail at Welford Hall. Our h, Lucy Greenwood, is an independent Yorkshire lass, who has been educated beyond her class and is currently scandalising the town by setting up a tea-shop and bespoke cake business.
The blackmail case doesn’t really get off the ground as there is a murder at the Hall shortly before Deverell arrives and this takes precedence. Although there seems to be a multitude of clues, this mystery is not a simple one and follows a winding path, although Deverell does manage to slot every new clue somewhere in his puzzle. Lucy offers to help as she is a fan of Sherlock Holmes, and is quite sure she can solve the mystery if only he would accept her assistance. [BTW, did you know that an adult head weighs about 10 lb? No, I didn't either. But I do now. And so do you.]
“Bespoke” is both a mystery and a romance and excels in both, with the emphasis being on the mystery, and there is a great cast of characters. Lucy’s partially deaf assistant, Mary; Lucy’s cousin, Minerva, who has a penchant for using initials to save time. Only it doesn’t because she is the only one who knows what they stand for. The Welford family, father/husband, two sons and a daughter; the butler, and gardener. Not forgetting Ivy, the scullery maid, “Clarty Clem” (who wants to marry Mary), Sergeant Moffatt (a bumptious police officer who thinks he knows everything), Dr Fielding, and Constable Briers, a friendly face in the local force, with a wife who can cook just the food that every man dreams of, especially lonely Detective Inspectors from London.
The high quality of “Bespoke” is unmistakable; the plot, the prose, the dialogue, the inner musings, and the characters, and for me this book is probably the best that Fresina has written. So far. “Bespoke” even surpasses “Slowly Fell”, which was my favourite Fresina before this one. Sizzling with sensuality, yet the first kiss is not far from the end of the book. The sensuality is conveyed by eyes, mainly Lucy, but also Deverell, eyebrows (Deverell), and the inner musings and imaginations of both.
PS. Watch out for the first mention of Lucy’s raspberry mousse-coloured frock. With lots of tiny buttons all the way down her back. Remember those buttons.
There is one thing I can always be sure of when I read an HR by Jayne Fresina, and that is, it will be different from anything I have read before. Fresina’s stories are not formulaic. They are different, intoxicating, sensual, extremely witty, funny, sad, imaginative, well-written, and beguiling. Oh, and the covers are always a delightful bonus.
Detective Inspector “Tolly” Deverell, our H, has been sent from Scotland Yard to Yorkshire to solve a case of blackmail at Welford Hall. Our h, Lucy Greenwood, is an independent Yorkshire lass, who has been educated beyond her class and is currently scandalising the town by setting up a tea-shop and bespoke cake business.
The blackmail case doesn’t really get off the ground as there is a murder at the Hall shortly before Deverell arrives and this takes precedence. Although there seems to be a multitude of clues, this mystery is not a simple one and follows a winding path, although Deverell does manage to slot every new clue somewhere in his puzzle. Lucy offers to help as she is a fan of Sherlock Holmes, and is quite sure she can solve the mystery if only he would accept her assistance. [BTW, did you know that an adult head weighs about 10 lb? No, I didn't either. But I do now. And so do you.]
“Bespoke” is both a mystery and a romance and excels in both, with the emphasis being on the mystery, and there is a great cast of characters. Lucy’s partially deaf assistant, Mary; Lucy’s cousin, Minerva, who has a penchant for using initials to save time. Only it doesn’t because she is the only one who knows what they stand for. The Welford family, father/husband, two sons and a daughter; the butler, and gardener. Not forgetting Ivy, the scullery maid, “Clarty Clem” (who wants to marry Mary), Sergeant Moffatt (a bumptious police officer who thinks he knows everything), Dr Fielding, and Constable Briers, a friendly face in the local force, with a wife who can cook just the food that every man dreams of, especially lonely Detective Inspectors from London.
The high quality of “Bespoke” is unmistakable; the plot, the prose, the dialogue, the inner musings, and the characters, and for me this book is probably the best that Fresina has written. So far. “Bespoke” even surpasses “Slowly Fell”, which was my favourite Fresina before this one. Sizzling with sensuality, yet the first kiss is not far from the end of the book. The sensuality is conveyed by eyes, mainly Lucy, but also Deverell, eyebrows (Deverell), and the inner musings and imaginations of both.
PS. Watch out for the first mention of Lucy’s raspberry mousse-coloured frock. With lots of tiny buttons all the way down her back. Remember those buttons.
December 22, 2020
Imagine if P.G. Wodehouse and Spike Milligan co-authored a murder mystery, well, Bespoke by Jayne Fresina is nothing like that. This is a deftly-written comedy of manners, a la Jane Austen, in the guise of a Holmesian murder mystery. However, in many ways it owes more to the sensibilities of an Alfred Hitchcock movie than a Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story. Although there is a murder, supplemented by old family rivalries, mistaken identities, fools, bad actors, the occasional misplaced body part, and even a ship wreck, all that business is just a McGuffin to dress the primary arc of the story, which revolves around romance.
Speaking of dressing the story, the reader is teased early on with vivid descriptions of ladies’ silk and lace underthings, but these are never modeled for the reader. This may seem a violation of The Principle of Chekov’s Gun ("One must never place a loaded rifle on the stage if it isn't going to go off.”). If the lack of bodice undraping is a deal-breaker, I think it would be best to know that up front, thus no spoiler alert from me. Despite this absence of explicit interactions, there is a sexual tension that is wonderfully salacious.
The story is tightly written and moves at a brisk pace but not at the expense of well-crafted garnishes and flourishes, humorous exchanges, red herrings, and a full complement of the obligatory characters in any crime story set in nineteenth century England. Bespoke is a pleasant and enjoyable diversion, but please don’t mistake this review as suggesting that it is a great work of literary merit. If you don’t let your expectations get too high, it is entirely possible that you may find something to like while reading Bespoke.
Speaking of dressing the story, the reader is teased early on with vivid descriptions of ladies’ silk and lace underthings, but these are never modeled for the reader. This may seem a violation of The Principle of Chekov’s Gun ("One must never place a loaded rifle on the stage if it isn't going to go off.”). If the lack of bodice undraping is a deal-breaker, I think it would be best to know that up front, thus no spoiler alert from me. Despite this absence of explicit interactions, there is a sexual tension that is wonderfully salacious.
The story is tightly written and moves at a brisk pace but not at the expense of well-crafted garnishes and flourishes, humorous exchanges, red herrings, and a full complement of the obligatory characters in any crime story set in nineteenth century England. Bespoke is a pleasant and enjoyable diversion, but please don’t mistake this review as suggesting that it is a great work of literary merit. If you don’t let your expectations get too high, it is entirely possible that you may find something to like while reading Bespoke.
April 6, 2021
I've been watching period British TV series during the Covid lockdown, including mysteries, and it put me in the mood to read one as well. Bespoke by Jayne Fresina absolutely perfectly fit the bill. This book is deep on the mystery, including a bit of gore, and very proper in its romance. Set in the 1890s in York, Fresina does a terrific job of capturing village life, setting up eccentric secondary characters - most of whom are suspects - and teasing along a Very Proper Victorian Romance.
The male protagonist is a somewhat worn-down London detective, who has decamped to York to convalesce while following up on a blackmail scheme. While there he becomes embroiled in a murder mystery and meets Lucy Greenwood, entrepreneurial bakeshop owner and modern woman, who moves rapidly from suspect to sounding board. There is an attraction between the detective and the baker, although neither is looking for it. In my mind's eye, Ptolemy Deverell resembled a tattered Columbo figure, complete with worn out coat and five o'clock shadow, but with some height and sculpted cheekbones to add to his appeal. Lucy is pertly dressed, smartly conversant in most things, confident, and has a soft spot for disadvantaged people.
The mystery reels out methodically, and is formulaic in the sense that it progresses like an hour-long procedural. I found myself taking notes on the clues because, dammit, I was going to figure it all out before Tolly and Lucy.
The mystery and setting were stellar. The characters interesting. The romance tame. In fact, I was disappointed there wasn't a better or more complete epilogue until I found out that the adventures of Deverell and Greenwood continue in two more books. There is a definite conclusion to the mystery, but the HEA left me hanging a tad. I will need to buy the next book to see how Lucy shocks her neighbors by riding a bicycle and keeping company with an intrepid detective.
The male protagonist is a somewhat worn-down London detective, who has decamped to York to convalesce while following up on a blackmail scheme. While there he becomes embroiled in a murder mystery and meets Lucy Greenwood, entrepreneurial bakeshop owner and modern woman, who moves rapidly from suspect to sounding board. There is an attraction between the detective and the baker, although neither is looking for it. In my mind's eye, Ptolemy Deverell resembled a tattered Columbo figure, complete with worn out coat and five o'clock shadow, but with some height and sculpted cheekbones to add to his appeal. Lucy is pertly dressed, smartly conversant in most things, confident, and has a soft spot for disadvantaged people.
The mystery reels out methodically, and is formulaic in the sense that it progresses like an hour-long procedural. I found myself taking notes on the clues because, dammit, I was going to figure it all out before Tolly and Lucy.
The mystery and setting were stellar. The characters interesting. The romance tame. In fact, I was disappointed there wasn't a better or more complete epilogue until I found out that the adventures of Deverell and Greenwood continue in two more books. There is a definite conclusion to the mystery, but the HEA left me hanging a tad. I will need to buy the next book to see how Lucy shocks her neighbors by riding a bicycle and keeping company with an intrepid detective.
January 31, 2023
Yorkshire, England 1893. Thanks to several trusted
book reviewer friends for recommending this book.
Tolly Deverell was a Scotland Yard detective & Lucy
Greenwood, maker of special cakes who had a small
tea room in her shop. Both unconventional. Male
business owners on her street gave Lucy a cool re-
ception upon opening her shop: a businesswoman?
Unheard of.
The secondary characters were quirky. It took me a bit
to figure who was loyal to whom? Loved the humor-
between the leads, Tolly and clueless local Sgt. Moffat,
& Mary, Lucy's deaf in one ear assistant, got in some
zingers w/ her boss (verbally & via sign language).
Tolly demonstrated his attn. to detail in order to catch
the murderer(s). Lord Percy had the mind of a child or
did he? The ending felt too abrupt. Overall, a joy to read.
book reviewer friends for recommending this book.
Tolly Deverell was a Scotland Yard detective & Lucy
Greenwood, maker of special cakes who had a small
tea room in her shop. Both unconventional. Male
business owners on her street gave Lucy a cool re-
ception upon opening her shop: a businesswoman?
Unheard of.
The secondary characters were quirky. It took me a bit
to figure who was loyal to whom? Loved the humor-
between the leads, Tolly and clueless local Sgt. Moffat,
& Mary, Lucy's deaf in one ear assistant, got in some
zingers w/ her boss (verbally & via sign language).
Tolly demonstrated his attn. to detail in order to catch
the murderer(s). Lord Percy had the mind of a child or
did he? The ending felt too abrupt. Overall, a joy to read.
November 10, 2019
Can a book be considered a romance when the H & h don't even manage a meaningful kiss until around 90%? I guess it can if Jayne Fresina is the author. First of all, thank you to my friend Lyuda who recommended this book to me. I had actually downloaded the sample when it first came out a few months ago but I gave up too soon. I would suggest not starting this book at the end of a long day or if your mind is not as sharp as it could be (at least mine wasn't). The prologue and the first chapter will make more sense as time goes along.
Primarily a very clever mystery, the romance of Lucy and Tolly Deverell is right there all along. Two very likeable MC, I enjoyed getting to know each of them. The setting is 1893, York, Yorkshire, England. Lucy is an independent sort. A woman who believes "if a man could be self-assured, proud and speak up for himself without censure, why could she not do the same?". At the same time, Lucy was "not such a rebel that she felt hampered by her feminine side. She did not want to be a man, or even very like one: she simply wanted the same chances and choices in her life". Deverell, a Scotland Yard detective/inspector is a man a few years older than Lucy's 28 years. He has recently gone through some traumatic events with the loss of his wife and her child as well as being shot. He is an intelligent, thoughtful, man who is not threatened by a strong woman. However, he has built some walls between himself and life and is conflicted about the prospect of letting someone like Lucy in.
I truly admire the descriptive quality of Fresina's writing. Instead of simply saying that Deverell was a handsome man, Fresina's Lucy thought "he was like a falcon or a peregrine--some splendid, awe-inspiring bird of prey that once stood poised upon the chainmail fist of a medieval knight, overlooking his domain with fierce, quiet pride, the wind ruffling is beautiful, dark feathers. He was not a creature that could be domesticated. Nor should he be."
Perhaps I would have figured out the mystery sooner if I hadn't been so enthralled with the romance. No matter, as I said, this was clever and heartwarming at the same time. I do hope we haven't seen the last of Tolly and Lucy (and Mary, Ivy, Minerva, etc) and her little bake shop in Yorkshire. I miss them already and am having a hard time figuring out what to read next. That is always a bit hard after a 5 star read IMO.
Primarily a very clever mystery, the romance of Lucy and Tolly Deverell is right there all along. Two very likeable MC, I enjoyed getting to know each of them. The setting is 1893, York, Yorkshire, England. Lucy is an independent sort. A woman who believes "if a man could be self-assured, proud and speak up for himself without censure, why could she not do the same?". At the same time, Lucy was "not such a rebel that she felt hampered by her feminine side. She did not want to be a man, or even very like one: she simply wanted the same chances and choices in her life". Deverell, a Scotland Yard detective/inspector is a man a few years older than Lucy's 28 years. He has recently gone through some traumatic events with the loss of his wife and her child as well as being shot. He is an intelligent, thoughtful, man who is not threatened by a strong woman. However, he has built some walls between himself and life and is conflicted about the prospect of letting someone like Lucy in.
I truly admire the descriptive quality of Fresina's writing. Instead of simply saying that Deverell was a handsome man, Fresina's Lucy thought "he was like a falcon or a peregrine--some splendid, awe-inspiring bird of prey that once stood poised upon the chainmail fist of a medieval knight, overlooking his domain with fierce, quiet pride, the wind ruffling is beautiful, dark feathers. He was not a creature that could be domesticated. Nor should he be."
Perhaps I would have figured out the mystery sooner if I hadn't been so enthralled with the romance. No matter, as I said, this was clever and heartwarming at the same time. I do hope we haven't seen the last of Tolly and Lucy (and Mary, Ivy, Minerva, etc) and her little bake shop in Yorkshire. I miss them already and am having a hard time figuring out what to read next. That is always a bit hard after a 5 star read IMO.
February 27, 2019
I always adore Jayne Fresina's characters for their wit, humor, and heart. Bespoke is her at her best!
July 17, 2019
I am so grateful to my GR friends and their friends because I have found an author to lift me out of the reading ennui I have been experiencing for some time. What a splendid story and splendid characters. I feel rejuvenated. On to the second in this series "The Peculiar Pink Toes of Lady Flora" post haste.
March 11, 2019
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-Te
Lucy Greenwood is an independent woman, who has decided to open a bakery, Bespoke Temptations. Though Lucy is the daughter of servants, one of her mother’s employers, Lady Foxworth, sent her to boarding school, where she learned to act and speak like a proper lady. The people of the town don’t quite know what to make of Lucy – the women are suspicious of her for working in close proximity to their husbands, while the men disapprove of a woman running a business. Customers are not swarming to her shop, so Lucy is thrilled when Lady Isolde comes in to order a cake for her annual garden party.
Detective Inspector “Tolly” Deverell has survived a bad marriage, his wife’s tragic death, and almost dying from a gunshot wound. When he returns to work, which no one expected, it’s to find that he’s been all but written off. His superior sends him off to Yorkshire, in theory, to investigate some blackmail attempts made on Ezra Welford, but, in reality, to allow him some further time away from London, to fully recuperate.
When Tolly arrives to begin his investigation, he finds instead a murder. Ezra’s wife, Lady Isolde has been killed mysteriously, her mouth covered in chocolate, and her hand in the cake from Bespoke Temptations. Though initially a suspect, Lucy is quickly cleared by Tolly, who may be unassuming, but is, by no means, unintelligent. The local police are shocked that Tolly would dare investigate the Welford household, after all, they are the most prominent family in the district. Tolly endures their barely veiled insults and ineptitude, and begins to dig into the circumstances of Lady Isolde’s death.
Tolly can’t help but notice Lucy’s attractiveness and intelligence, but there is no way he’s going to accept her offer of help with his investigation. His brief and painful marriage has left him wary of women and even more determined to avoid love. Lucy’s one unsuccessful foray into passion has also left her determined to never marry, but she can’t deny the strong allure she feels for Tolly. Each encounter has them fighting the intense enjoyment they feel in each other’s company while trying to maintain their emotional distance.
Tolly really touched my heart. He’s a strong, low key, intelligent man, who is very capable in his vocation, yet has been beaten down badly in his personal life. He’s afraid to take a risk again, preferring to plod along in life, concentrating solely on his job. Though Lucy has had a bad experience also, she is quicker to become willing to take a chance on Tolly. She’s a modern woman who knows what she wants, yet has an innate kindness, and is willing to listen to reason.
BESPOKE is full of twists and turns, and the quirky characters I’ve come to expect from Jayne Fresina. The winding path of the investigation was the focal point of the novel, with the romance developing very slowly and haltingly, but nonetheless sweet and warm. I’m a great fan of epilogues, and a lovely one here gave me hope that the fledgling love between Tolly and Lucy may develop into something enduring. BESPOKE is attention grabbing and entertaining, and a book I recommend for readers who enjoy a little journey off the typical path of historical romance.
Lucy Greenwood is an independent woman, who has decided to open a bakery, Bespoke Temptations. Though Lucy is the daughter of servants, one of her mother’s employers, Lady Foxworth, sent her to boarding school, where she learned to act and speak like a proper lady. The people of the town don’t quite know what to make of Lucy – the women are suspicious of her for working in close proximity to their husbands, while the men disapprove of a woman running a business. Customers are not swarming to her shop, so Lucy is thrilled when Lady Isolde comes in to order a cake for her annual garden party.
Detective Inspector “Tolly” Deverell has survived a bad marriage, his wife’s tragic death, and almost dying from a gunshot wound. When he returns to work, which no one expected, it’s to find that he’s been all but written off. His superior sends him off to Yorkshire, in theory, to investigate some blackmail attempts made on Ezra Welford, but, in reality, to allow him some further time away from London, to fully recuperate.
When Tolly arrives to begin his investigation, he finds instead a murder. Ezra’s wife, Lady Isolde has been killed mysteriously, her mouth covered in chocolate, and her hand in the cake from Bespoke Temptations. Though initially a suspect, Lucy is quickly cleared by Tolly, who may be unassuming, but is, by no means, unintelligent. The local police are shocked that Tolly would dare investigate the Welford household, after all, they are the most prominent family in the district. Tolly endures their barely veiled insults and ineptitude, and begins to dig into the circumstances of Lady Isolde’s death.
Tolly can’t help but notice Lucy’s attractiveness and intelligence, but there is no way he’s going to accept her offer of help with his investigation. His brief and painful marriage has left him wary of women and even more determined to avoid love. Lucy’s one unsuccessful foray into passion has also left her determined to never marry, but she can’t deny the strong allure she feels for Tolly. Each encounter has them fighting the intense enjoyment they feel in each other’s company while trying to maintain their emotional distance.
Tolly really touched my heart. He’s a strong, low key, intelligent man, who is very capable in his vocation, yet has been beaten down badly in his personal life. He’s afraid to take a risk again, preferring to plod along in life, concentrating solely on his job. Though Lucy has had a bad experience also, she is quicker to become willing to take a chance on Tolly. She’s a modern woman who knows what she wants, yet has an innate kindness, and is willing to listen to reason.
BESPOKE is full of twists and turns, and the quirky characters I’ve come to expect from Jayne Fresina. The winding path of the investigation was the focal point of the novel, with the romance developing very slowly and haltingly, but nonetheless sweet and warm. I’m a great fan of epilogues, and a lovely one here gave me hope that the fledgling love between Tolly and Lucy may develop into something enduring. BESPOKE is attention grabbing and entertaining, and a book I recommend for readers who enjoy a little journey off the typical path of historical romance.
May 26, 2020
This might have been slow going, but it turned out amazing. I've got a question about the children, but maybe an explanation will come to me.
Meanwhile, I wonder if this author has written more about Tolly and Lucy. What a lovely, lovely couple. :-) (and even Cousin Min, who I'd been quite prepared to dislike, turned out to be on the side of the angels. ;-) )
Meanwhile, I wonder if this author has written more about Tolly and Lucy. What a lovely, lovely couple. :-) (and even Cousin Min, who I'd been quite prepared to dislike, turned out to be on the side of the angels. ;-) )
December 18, 2020
Fresina is one of those hidden treasures of small press publishing. She started out as fairly straight forward historical romance but these days wanders off into ghost stories, time travel, and murder mysteries. "Bespoke" is the latter. No supernatural elements but plenty of twisty gothic plot moments of family secrets and dismembered bodies. And cake. Lots of cake. Which means even as they are hacking up a murder victim to hide it about an estate, down in the town the ladies with taste are ordering custom-made cakes. At least that's what our heroine hopes will happen even as a Deverell (important family connection for Fresina fans) searches for the real killer(s) in a family nest full of cuckoos.
February 9, 2024
Finally, a female MC who knows exactly what her value is - she’s bold, vibrant, and independent without a need to prove herself. That certainty and assurance of herself was such a pleasant surprise.
The dynamic between both main characters is full of banter, subtle flirtation and humor. It was done in such a manner that it didn’t distract from the murder investigation. If anything, it reminded me of how human we are, and how even at the wildest moments, our minds can jump somewhere else.
The mystery itself was multilayered, full of so many twists and turns. Several were very easy to guess from the beginning, but there was a few that I didn’t see coming.
Definitely saved for another reread!
The dynamic between both main characters is full of banter, subtle flirtation and humor. It was done in such a manner that it didn’t distract from the murder investigation. If anything, it reminded me of how human we are, and how even at the wildest moments, our minds can jump somewhere else.
The mystery itself was multilayered, full of so many twists and turns. Several were very easy to guess from the beginning, but there was a few that I didn’t see coming.
Definitely saved for another reread!
October 22, 2024
3 stars
The fact I’ve waited years for this book only for it to end up being three stars😩
Had very high hopes for this and it sadly didn’t meet them but that’s on me.
I think it was bc the mystery aspect of it didn’t interest me at all and since the majority of it revolves around the mystery so it took me a while to finish.
I understand the hero might have trust issues bc of a past relationship but his reluctancy towards pursuing the heroine was a turn off.
I don’t think I’ll be reading the rest of this series
The fact I’ve waited years for this book only for it to end up being three stars😩
Had very high hopes for this and it sadly didn’t meet them but that’s on me.
I think it was bc the mystery aspect of it didn’t interest me at all and since the majority of it revolves around the mystery so it took me a while to finish.
I understand the hero might have trust issues bc of a past relationship but his reluctancy towards pursuing the heroine was a turn off.
I don’t think I’ll be reading the rest of this series
August 3, 2025
3.5 stars.
Jayne Fresina never disappoints me. Quirky characters, good story that keeps you guessing...
But usually I get a wonderful romance that sweeps me off my feet. While I loved Tolly (his grandparent story remain my fav of the saga) and Lucy and they way they slowly fell for each other, I wished there was more interactions between them but the story was more 65 percent the case and 35 percent the romance which is why I gave this book 3.5 stars.
PS I love reading the slang from those times!
Jayne Fresina never disappoints me. Quirky characters, good story that keeps you guessing...
But usually I get a wonderful romance that sweeps me off my feet. While I loved Tolly (his grandparent story remain my fav of the saga) and Lucy and they way they slowly fell for each other, I wished there was more interactions between them but the story was more 65 percent the case and 35 percent the romance which is why I gave this book 3.5 stars.
PS I love reading the slang from those times!
May 5, 2019
Enjoyable!
Historic mysteries being my favorite, I must say Jayne Fresina has put the icing on the cake (lol) with this book! The story line, the characters, her magical poetic flow of words: all of it has made me a fan! I'm kind of hoping to see a sequel ?
Historic mysteries being my favorite, I must say Jayne Fresina has put the icing on the cake (lol) with this book! The story line, the characters, her magical poetic flow of words: all of it has made me a fan! I'm kind of hoping to see a sequel ?
August 13, 2019
Quirky, unique, smart, and so well-written. I enjoyed Lucy and Tolly so much and their quiet romance; the mystery was interesting and sort of macabre. All in all satisfying. I’m so happy to discover a new author :)
March 27, 2021
This was slow going for much of the first half, but because one of the reviewers I follow loved this book, I kept on. Let me see what that reviewer thinks of the next book in the series before I commit.
Want to read
March 16, 2021Now on Amazon Kindle at 0.89€!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
August 11, 2024
Another curious, compelling book from Jayne Fresina. And, of course, the hero is a Deverell. It was fun and she promised a sequel!
I wanted a reread before I read books 2 & 3 and I had forgotten whodunit. It's a messy crime but Deverells are never afraid of jumping into the fray to sort things out. Lucy is still wonderful but not perfect, nor should she be.
I wanted a reread before I read books 2 & 3 and I had forgotten whodunit. It's a messy crime but Deverells are never afraid of jumping into the fray to sort things out. Lucy is still wonderful but not perfect, nor should she be.
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