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Lady Adelaide Mystery #4
Farewell Blues
Lady Adelaide Compton had prepared herself to say good-bye forever to Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter. It would be a welcome relief not to get mixed up in any more murders. Not to mention become un-haunted by her late and unlamented husband Rupert, whose post-life duty had been dedicated to detection and her protection. Surely he’d performed the necessary number of good deeds to get out of Addie’s fashionably bobbed hair and gain access to Heaven by now.
But when Addie’s prim and proper mother Constance, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton is accused of murdering her secret lover, there can’t be enough ghosts and gentlemen detectives on hand to find the truth. The dead Duke of Rufford appeared to lead a blameless life, but appearances can be deceiving. Unless Addie, Dev and Rupert work together, Constance will hang, and Great War flying ace Rupert will never get his celestial wings.
But when Addie’s prim and proper mother Constance, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton is accused of murdering her secret lover, there can’t be enough ghosts and gentlemen detectives on hand to find the truth. The dead Duke of Rufford appeared to lead a blameless life, but appearances can be deceiving. Unless Addie, Dev and Rupert work together, Constance will hang, and Great War flying ace Rupert will never get his celestial wings.
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First published September 14, 2021
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About the author
Maggie Robinson
40 books360 followersMaggie Robinson is a former teacher, library clerk and mother of four who woke up in the middle of the night, absolutely compelled to create the perfect man and use as many adverbs as possible doing so. A transplanted New Yorker, she lives with her not-quite perfect husband in Maine, where the cold winters are ideal for staying inside and writing hot historical romances and her latest venture, the Lady Adelaide Mysteries. Her books have been translated into nine languages.
She also wrote two erotic historical romances as Margaret Rowe.
She also wrote two erotic historical romances as Margaret Rowe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
September 7, 2021
As if it wasn’t bad enough for Lady Adelaide Compton’s prim and proper mother, Lady Broughton, to be carrying on a torrid love affair with the Duke of Rufford; she is found in her suite at the Ritz in her peignoir, covered in blood, with her own gun standing over the murdered Duke’s body! Lady Adelaide was hoping to retire from investigating murders, but now she must prove her mother’s innocence. She turns to Detective Inspector Dev Hunter, a handsome Anglo-Indian, who has helped her in the past and who she might be just a little in love with. Also, by her side is the ghost of her former husband, Rupert Compton. Rupert who was a fast-living philanderer in his former life, must atone for his misdeeds on earth before he can be admitted to the here-after.
With a plethora of suspects, most of whom are related to the late Duke, Lady Adelaide and her partners have their work cut out for them. The Duke’s children and grandchildren, along with spouses and fiancés, do not seem at all sorry he is dead, and all had a motive to kill him.
Running around London and the countryside, from swanky hotels to steamy nightclubs; 1920’s Great Britain comes alive in this spirited and charming cozy mystery, with just the right amount of romance thrown in. The dialogue sizzles and the plot is intriguing. Sadly, this is the last addition to this delightful series, and Lady Adelaide, et al will be missed.
Thank you to Poison Pen Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
With a plethora of suspects, most of whom are related to the late Duke, Lady Adelaide and her partners have their work cut out for them. The Duke’s children and grandchildren, along with spouses and fiancés, do not seem at all sorry he is dead, and all had a motive to kill him.
Running around London and the countryside, from swanky hotels to steamy nightclubs; 1920’s Great Britain comes alive in this spirited and charming cozy mystery, with just the right amount of romance thrown in. The dialogue sizzles and the plot is intriguing. Sadly, this is the last addition to this delightful series, and Lady Adelaide, et al will be missed.
Thank you to Poison Pen Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
April 1, 2022
The final book in the series and I just plain enjoyed it as it ties everything up. The series is a fun light read about a mixed-race Scotland Yard inspector and a widowed daughter of a Marquess. The first and this book are my favorites. I enjoy the authors writing. I give this one 4* due to tying up all the characters storylines neatly.
August 20, 2021
So sad to see this series end, but the three epilogues helped ease the pain. Highly recommended.
September 14, 2021
Surprising happenings!
Rather laconic cosy mystery complete with 1922’s upper crust acting somewhat like overbred, skittish hounds. Lady Adelaide Compton’s roguish ghostly husband becomes involved. This is important if he’s to continue on to the celestial plane. He must redeem himself. Turns out a ghost can pickup a lot of useful information.
It seems Addie’s very proper mother has been having a secret affair with the now, very dead Duke of Rufford. Not only that, but the Dowager Marchioness has been accused of the Duke’s murder.
If the true culprit can’t be uncovered Addie’s mother will hang.
Addie needs the help of Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter, and of course, her very dead husband Rupert. Rupert’s inclusion somewhat rings bells of a twisted Topper movie. (1937).
Working with the delectable Dev again is an added bonus for Addie even in these dire times.
A Poisoned Pen ARC via NetGalley
Rather laconic cosy mystery complete with 1922’s upper crust acting somewhat like overbred, skittish hounds. Lady Adelaide Compton’s roguish ghostly husband becomes involved. This is important if he’s to continue on to the celestial plane. He must redeem himself. Turns out a ghost can pickup a lot of useful information.
It seems Addie’s very proper mother has been having a secret affair with the now, very dead Duke of Rufford. Not only that, but the Dowager Marchioness has been accused of the Duke’s murder.
If the true culprit can’t be uncovered Addie’s mother will hang.
Addie needs the help of Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter, and of course, her very dead husband Rupert. Rupert’s inclusion somewhat rings bells of a twisted Topper movie. (1937).
Working with the delectable Dev again is an added bonus for Addie even in these dire times.
A Poisoned Pen ARC via NetGalley
January 22, 2022
This installment in the series felt a bit 'meh' to me. It took me a while to get invested. Firstly, it felt a bit absurd that Lady Adelaide's extremely proper mother would be arrested for murder. I mean, I went with it, but I think it did mean that I found the books tedious. Also, let's be real, I've been reading these books because I enjoy Addie and Dev's dynamic together. That doesn't feel like it kicks in until about a third of the way through. Once that happened I got more into it. The mystery itself also got a bit more interesting in the second half, when they started finding out more details about the family involved. Part of the problem in the first half is that Lady Adelaide's mother is really the only concievable suspect. And I mean, that's kind of boring. But I do enjoy the setting of between the wars London. And the go to more night clubs, and have to deal with a member of the tabloid press. Basically the majority of the novel is fun, if not amazing.
And then the ending happened, or should I say the "epilogues."
Honestly I'm so disappointed in the epilogues, I may come back and dock this down to two stars. Because, why? Actually, given that I also found the beginning a bit rough, I'm doing it. And the two stars is solely because I like Addie and Dev, and I liked the resolution of the mystery in this one.
And then the ending happened, or should I say the "epilogues."
Honestly I'm so disappointed in the epilogues, I may come back and dock this down to two stars. Because, why? Actually, given that I also found the beginning a bit rough, I'm doing it. And the two stars is solely because I like Addie and Dev, and I liked the resolution of the mystery in this one.
January 12, 2022
FAREWELL BLUES
Maggie Robinson
I really like Lady Adelaide, but her mother Lady Broughton can really try your patience! I mean, what mom of a Lady stands in her nightie covered in blood and holding her gun over a dead duke in her hotel room? It would seem pretty open and shut, except that this is a cozy mystery, so nope, it won't do. Thank goodness that Detective Inspector Dev is on the job (I think he must be cute as well) and that Lady Addie is there to help him... even if he doesn't want it.
Addie is all the better as a sleuth for the assistance of her husband Rupert, who has a talent for getting into rooms and listening to conversations that he should not hear. Even though Rupert is going to be the death of Addie, she can't seem to shake him. I mean he is dead, after all, what could she possibly threaten him with?
I really enjoyed the plot and it bounces along at a jaunty pace that keeps me on my toes. I laughed and enjoyed the story and wished that Rupert would close his eyes so that Addie and Dev might be able to do something about all that tension between them. What a fun read!
4 stars
Happy Reading!
Maggie Robinson
I really like Lady Adelaide, but her mother Lady Broughton can really try your patience! I mean, what mom of a Lady stands in her nightie covered in blood and holding her gun over a dead duke in her hotel room? It would seem pretty open and shut, except that this is a cozy mystery, so nope, it won't do. Thank goodness that Detective Inspector Dev is on the job (I think he must be cute as well) and that Lady Addie is there to help him... even if he doesn't want it.
Addie is all the better as a sleuth for the assistance of her husband Rupert, who has a talent for getting into rooms and listening to conversations that he should not hear. Even though Rupert is going to be the death of Addie, she can't seem to shake him. I mean he is dead, after all, what could she possibly threaten him with?
I really enjoyed the plot and it bounces along at a jaunty pace that keeps me on my toes. I laughed and enjoyed the story and wished that Rupert would close his eyes so that Addie and Dev might be able to do something about all that tension between them. What a fun read!
4 stars
Happy Reading!
September 22, 2021
What makes an enjoyable cozy mystery? I love the guiding ghosts in E.J. Copperman’s Haunted Guesthouse series (first book: Night of the Living Deed). I love the sophisticated couple Amory and Miles Ames, whose entertaining series began with Murder at the Brightwell. I love British royalty turned sleuths, such as Lady Julia Grey (first book: Silent in the Grave) and Frances Wynn, widow of the late, disagreeable Earl of Harleigh (first book: A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder). And I love funny cozies featuring strong-willed women who are drawn to “unacceptable” men, like Ellison Russell (first book: The Deep End).
Which is why I am so saddened by Farewell Blues; it’s just the sort of book I usually love. Like Frances Wynn, Lady Adelaide Compton is the widow of a loathsome man with a wandering eye. The lothario is back as a ghost, forced to solve mysteries (huh?) to atone for his many sins. Lady Adelaide is drawn to a part-Indian Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter, and apparently they have worked together before in one or all of the three previous books in this series. She’s strong-willed and not afraid to flout societal expectations. Would I have enjoyed this book more if I had read the previous novels in the series? Perhaps, but I think my real issue with the book is that the dialogue was not particularly clever or funny or charming. And the characters weren’t, either. I found it very hard to finish. Your mileage may vary, but I can read the first in this series, Nobody's Sweetheart Now, for free on Kindle Unlimited, and I’m going to give it a pass.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.
Which is why I am so saddened by Farewell Blues; it’s just the sort of book I usually love. Like Frances Wynn, Lady Adelaide Compton is the widow of a loathsome man with a wandering eye. The lothario is back as a ghost, forced to solve mysteries (huh?) to atone for his many sins. Lady Adelaide is drawn to a part-Indian Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter, and apparently they have worked together before in one or all of the three previous books in this series. She’s strong-willed and not afraid to flout societal expectations. Would I have enjoyed this book more if I had read the previous novels in the series? Perhaps, but I think my real issue with the book is that the dialogue was not particularly clever or funny or charming. And the characters weren’t, either. I found it very hard to finish. Your mileage may vary, but I can read the first in this series, Nobody's Sweetheart Now, for free on Kindle Unlimited, and I’m going to give it a pass.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2024
I read this entire series in rapid succession and it grew on me. This was a nice conclusion that wrapped up all the storylines.
October 25, 2021
As the title suggests, this is the final book featuring Lady Adelaide, Inspector Hunter, and the ghostly Rupert.
Ms Robinson sends them off in style with a clever mystery. Addie's very proper mama has been arrested for murdering her lover. She was discovered, gun in hand, standing over his body, in an elegant suite at the Ritz. Oh, the scandal! To make matters even worse, Inspector Devenand Hunter is not the Scotland Yard man in charge of the investigation; that honor goes to Inspector Barnes, who sees no need to investigate at all. Lady Constance did the deed and that's that.
One thing we can count on is that Lady Constance is innocent of murder.
We get to follow along as Addie, Inspector Hunter, Rupert and various allies start investigating the late Duke of Rufford (Edmund Moreton) and his family. The picture revealed is not pretty--but which of these family members had the motive and the opportunity to do the deed?
There are several twists and turns before we reach the very dramatic climax where the murderer is revealed.
All ends well, of course. The author treats us to 3(!) epilogues that wrap up the three romances that unfolded over the course of the 4 book series. Happy smiles all around, even from Rupert.
Ms Robinson sends them off in style with a clever mystery. Addie's very proper mama has been arrested for murdering her lover. She was discovered, gun in hand, standing over his body, in an elegant suite at the Ritz. Oh, the scandal! To make matters even worse, Inspector Devenand Hunter is not the Scotland Yard man in charge of the investigation; that honor goes to Inspector Barnes, who sees no need to investigate at all. Lady Constance did the deed and that's that.
One thing we can count on is that Lady Constance is innocent of murder.
We get to follow along as Addie, Inspector Hunter, Rupert and various allies start investigating the late Duke of Rufford (Edmund Moreton) and his family. The picture revealed is not pretty--but which of these family members had the motive and the opportunity to do the deed?
There are several twists and turns before we reach the very dramatic climax where the murderer is revealed.
All ends well, of course. The author treats us to 3(!) epilogues that wrap up the three romances that unfolded over the course of the 4 book series. Happy smiles all around, even from Rupert.
October 4, 2021
Mysterious, atmospheric, and delightfully entertaining!
In this latest novel by Robinson, Farewell Blues, we head back to 1920s London where widow Lady Adelaide Compton finds herself once again teaming up with her two trusty sidekicks, the handsome Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter and the ghost of her late philandering husband, Major Rupert Compton to find the real killer of the Duke of Rufford as quickly as possible in order to free her courtly mother, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton, from gaol and save her from possibly hanging for the crime.
The writing style is vivid and light. The characters, including the intelligent, independent heroine, are well-developed, complex, and intriguing. And the plot is a well-paced whodunit full of amateur sleuthing, scandalous behaviour, red herrings, suspects, deduction, and a little romance.
Farewell Blues is the fourth and final book in the Lady Adelaide Mystery series, and I have to admit it’s a little bittersweet to say goodbye to the characters we’ve come to know and love over these last four novels by Robinson. Nevertheless, if you love cosy mysteries that take you back in time to when social class was everything, forensics was almost nonexistent, and crimes could easily be solved by everyday snooping, stubborn determination, and shrewd reasoning, then this novel won’t disappoint, and this is definitely a series you’ll want to think about picking up.
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this latest novel by Robinson, Farewell Blues, we head back to 1920s London where widow Lady Adelaide Compton finds herself once again teaming up with her two trusty sidekicks, the handsome Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter and the ghost of her late philandering husband, Major Rupert Compton to find the real killer of the Duke of Rufford as quickly as possible in order to free her courtly mother, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton, from gaol and save her from possibly hanging for the crime.
The writing style is vivid and light. The characters, including the intelligent, independent heroine, are well-developed, complex, and intriguing. And the plot is a well-paced whodunit full of amateur sleuthing, scandalous behaviour, red herrings, suspects, deduction, and a little romance.
Farewell Blues is the fourth and final book in the Lady Adelaide Mystery series, and I have to admit it’s a little bittersweet to say goodbye to the characters we’ve come to know and love over these last four novels by Robinson. Nevertheless, if you love cosy mysteries that take you back in time to when social class was everything, forensics was almost nonexistent, and crimes could easily be solved by everyday snooping, stubborn determination, and shrewd reasoning, then this novel won’t disappoint, and this is definitely a series you’ll want to think about picking up.
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2021
Addie (Lady Adelaide Compton to give her a full title) has a dead philanderer of a husband (Rupert) who must continue on as a ghost until he has been considered to have redeemed himself. She also has a mother, Constance, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton, who also is not quite as pure as the driven snow. When Constance's secret beau is found dead and Constance is thought to be the murderer as she was at the murder scene in the Ritz along with her own pistol, Addie and Detective Inspector Devenand (Dev) Hunter put their heads together.
This is book four in Maggie Robinson's Lady Adelaide Mysteries. I really liked the author's characterisation, especially Addie's maid, Beckett. Farewell Blues had me keen to keep turning the pages as I searched for the clues to help solve the mystery of whodunit. This reader was also interested in the possible outcome of the unacknowledged mutual attraction between Addie and Dev. A fantastic cozy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
This is book four in Maggie Robinson's Lady Adelaide Mysteries. I really liked the author's characterisation, especially Addie's maid, Beckett. Farewell Blues had me keen to keep turning the pages as I searched for the clues to help solve the mystery of whodunit. This reader was also interested in the possible outcome of the unacknowledged mutual attraction between Addie and Dev. A fantastic cozy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 23, 2022
I'm sorry to see them go (humans alive and not). This was a charming series that was relaxing and fun to read.
September 4, 2021
Let’s get this out of the way first: I’m usually not a big fan of cozies where the sleuth investigate because a friend/relative is a murder suspect and they want to clear that person’s name. This has to do with the fact that I can suspend my disbelief and accept that a random person can walk around and ask others about a crime that has recently been committed, especially because (at least in good cozies) the sleuth usually doesn’t just walk in and demands to know everything about the murder but is more subtle about it. I can buy that but can’t quite believe that it would be quite as easy if the person asking if you didn’t also have an argument with the victim is a child/sibling/friend of the current main suspect. Additionally, I often feel the urgency that this set-up should provoke is missing. If someone a character cares about is suspected of a crime and a lengthy prison sentence or even an execution hangs over their head I expect that character to be worried. But often they just treat it like every other case.
This was a very long-winded way of saying that even though I had loved the previous Lady Adelaide novels I was a bit sceptical when I heard that in Farewell Blues Addie’s mother was the main suspect in a murder. But then I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out very differently from what I had feared. Addie being the daughter of the main suspect makes her investigation more difficult. Some people very much don’t want to talk to her. At the same time, it’s difficult for Addie because it’s her mother who’s a suspect and if she fails to find the true killer her mother will likely die. But despite that Farewell Blues is still a mystery novel where the main question is...well whodunit? It manages to find a perfect balance between these two aspects.
(The other question is of course: how long will I be able to read about Addie and Dev yearning for each other without going mad? Let me just say that I was very happy and content after the last page. Very.)
ARC received from NetGalley
This was a very long-winded way of saying that even though I had loved the previous Lady Adelaide novels I was a bit sceptical when I heard that in Farewell Blues Addie’s mother was the main suspect in a murder. But then I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out very differently from what I had feared. Addie being the daughter of the main suspect makes her investigation more difficult. Some people very much don’t want to talk to her. At the same time, it’s difficult for Addie because it’s her mother who’s a suspect and if she fails to find the true killer her mother will likely die. But despite that Farewell Blues is still a mystery novel where the main question is...well whodunit? It manages to find a perfect balance between these two aspects.
(The other question is of course: how long will I be able to read about Addie and Dev yearning for each other without going mad? Let me just say that I was very happy and content after the last page. Very.)
ARC received from NetGalley
April 26, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this series and I'm a bit sad this is the last instalment.
As the other books it was highly entertaining, engrossing and a lot of fun to read.
Adelaide and Dev are an unusual romantica couple due to social differences but their chemistry is excellent and I love how they interact.
Rupert, the ghost of Adelaide's late husband, is always funny and I like him.
The mystery is full of twist and suspects, I couldn't guess the culprit and the motive.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
As the other books it was highly entertaining, engrossing and a lot of fun to read.
Adelaide and Dev are an unusual romantica couple due to social differences but their chemistry is excellent and I love how they interact.
Rupert, the ghost of Adelaide's late husband, is always funny and I like him.
The mystery is full of twist and suspects, I couldn't guess the culprit and the motive.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 29, 2021
Wow! This book is SO GOOD! It is engaging, entertaining, full of twists and turns, intriguing, oh so cozy-mysterious, and much more! Whenever I picked up "Farewell Blues", I was whisked back in time to the 1920s, put on my sleuthing hat, and found myself trying to solve the mystery right along with the characters.
This is the fourth book in Maggie Robinson's "Lady Adelaide Mysteries" series, but the first I have read! I definitely think the book can be read as a stand-alone novel too. However, with that said, I want to go back and read the previous books, as Ms. Robinson's writing style is incredibly vivid. She pulls the reader in from the first page to the last! Ms. Robinson brings her characters to life so clearly, and I could envision each and every one. I came to understand all of the characters' personalities, and often felt like I was right there watching the story play out before my eyes.
Lady Adelaide is such a brave, intelligent, spunky, strong-willed, and kind woman who wants to do what is right. When her mother is accused of murdering the Duke of Rufford, Adelaide knows her mom could not have done it. With help along the way from Dev, a Detective Inspector, and the ghost of her deceased husband Rupert, among others, she sets out to find out who the real murderer is, as well as to to free her mother from jail. With clue after clue, numerous puzzle pieces, a disappearance, etc. will Adelaide be able to find out what really happened? Did someone frame her mother? Who really wanted the Duke dead? You will just have to read to find out!
Furthermore, there is definitely some romance mixed in throughout the book as well! Even though this is the first book I have read in the series, I was so pulling for Adelaide and Dev to find their happily-ever-after with one another. While I do not want to spoil anything in this review, I will simply say...EPILOGUES!!!!
If you enjoy historical mysteries, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and, without spoiling anything specifically, I will simply say I was SHOCKED at the who-done-it. My mouth absolutely hit the floor!
Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press for the review copy of this book, it is incredible! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is the fourth book in Maggie Robinson's "Lady Adelaide Mysteries" series, but the first I have read! I definitely think the book can be read as a stand-alone novel too. However, with that said, I want to go back and read the previous books, as Ms. Robinson's writing style is incredibly vivid. She pulls the reader in from the first page to the last! Ms. Robinson brings her characters to life so clearly, and I could envision each and every one. I came to understand all of the characters' personalities, and often felt like I was right there watching the story play out before my eyes.
Lady Adelaide is such a brave, intelligent, spunky, strong-willed, and kind woman who wants to do what is right. When her mother is accused of murdering the Duke of Rufford, Adelaide knows her mom could not have done it. With help along the way from Dev, a Detective Inspector, and the ghost of her deceased husband Rupert, among others, she sets out to find out who the real murderer is, as well as to to free her mother from jail. With clue after clue, numerous puzzle pieces, a disappearance, etc. will Adelaide be able to find out what really happened? Did someone frame her mother? Who really wanted the Duke dead? You will just have to read to find out!
Furthermore, there is definitely some romance mixed in throughout the book as well! Even though this is the first book I have read in the series, I was so pulling for Adelaide and Dev to find their happily-ever-after with one another. While I do not want to spoil anything in this review, I will simply say...EPILOGUES!!!!
If you enjoy historical mysteries, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and, without spoiling anything specifically, I will simply say I was SHOCKED at the who-done-it. My mouth absolutely hit the floor!
Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press for the review copy of this book, it is incredible! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 23, 2021
When Lady Broughton ends up behind bars for shooting her lover, the Duke of Rufford. All of English society is up in arms, knowing she had to of pulled the trigger, it was her gun after all. The police want to wrap this up quickly, there is no question she killed him. They found her holding the smoking gun. Can Lady Addie come to the rescue of her dear mother, before she hangs from the gallows? Addie is an amateur sleuth, who has worked closely with the dashing Detective Inspector Dev, before. He will surely help her out now, since her mother has gotten herself into this unspeakable dilemma. There is also Addie's deceased husband Rupert, who was not only an annoyance in real life, he made it his job to be a philanderer, and now he is now a ghost. He is bound to earth until he has paid back his debt to her. He is the secret weapon to Addie's sleuthing. Since he is able to get into any place and sit, watch, and listen. Will they be able to discover the actual killer of the Duke of Rufford?
Farewell Blues is a fun filled mystery, which will have you guessing who pulled the trigger. Since I began the series on the fourth and last book, I was completely lost for the first quarter. There are so many characters, that my mind was spinning trying to keep them all straight. I am so thankful that there is a cast of characters at the front of the book, or I may have given up. This is completely my fault and if you read them in order, I know this would of been a fantastic book! The characters are all well developed and lively. You can feel the tension roll off Addie and Dev as they try to keep their relationship professional. Even though they both want more. Rupert will leave you laughing out loud and wishing you had your own personal ghost. Thank you to Maggie Robinson, Poisoned Pen, and Source Books for sending me this cozy mystery, which transports you back in time.
Farewell Blues is a fun filled mystery, which will have you guessing who pulled the trigger. Since I began the series on the fourth and last book, I was completely lost for the first quarter. There are so many characters, that my mind was spinning trying to keep them all straight. I am so thankful that there is a cast of characters at the front of the book, or I may have given up. This is completely my fault and if you read them in order, I know this would of been a fantastic book! The characters are all well developed and lively. You can feel the tension roll off Addie and Dev as they try to keep their relationship professional. Even though they both want more. Rupert will leave you laughing out loud and wishing you had your own personal ghost. Thank you to Maggie Robinson, Poisoned Pen, and Source Books for sending me this cozy mystery, which transports you back in time.
October 3, 2025
The final book in the series picks up right where the previous book left off, with Lady Adelaide's very proper mother, a Dowager Marchioness, being arrested for murdering her lover in their posh room at The Ritz. The evidence is damning indeed, and mores the pity Inspector Hunter wasn't assigned the case. The man who was? Well he sees it as rather open and shut - no need to investigate at all. Lucky thing then that due to injuries sustained over the course of the previous book that Inspector Hunter can take a little time off to investigate on his own - and there's plenty of suspects. The dead man's family is a veritable nest of vipers.
It all turns out right as rain in the end (of course) and the author treats readers to 3 (!) epilogues to wrap up the various romantic entanglements. I feel like the conclusion to this aspect of the series could have been better integrated rather than stuffed in at the end via 3 (!) epilogues but I'm not a monster and who doesn't love a happy ending? Monsters, that's who.
It all turns out right as rain in the end (of course) and the author treats readers to 3 (!) epilogues to wrap up the various romantic entanglements. I feel like the conclusion to this aspect of the series could have been better integrated rather than stuffed in at the end via 3 (!) epilogues but I'm not a monster and who doesn't love a happy ending? Monsters, that's who.
October 1, 2021
With the exception of the major mis-step of the third book, this turned out to be a wonderful quartet series. The author was back on track with this book and it didn't disappoint. With twists and turns, plenty of red herrings and characters that were well written and multi-faceted, this was a joy to read. I especially liked how Ms. Robinson tied up all the lose ends and gave us a peek into the future of the main characters. All in all, this was a unique series that cozy mystery fans will enjoy. I recommend this book and this series, especially if you enjoy a good ghost story!! Well done, Ms. Robinson, well done!
February 2, 2022
Lady Adelaide is fairly sure she loves Scotland Yard Inspector Devenand Hunter, but she doesn't realize that the half-Indian Hunter feels the same way about her. Society would frown on a connection between them, but when Adelaide's very proper mother is found in a suite in the Ritz with the dead body of her lover, the pistol still in her hand, they must work together to clear the dowager Constance. Unfortunately, the wealthy, unpleasant and influential family of the lover wants blood, and Constance is locked up while the others search desperately for the real culprit.
October 4, 2021
Another fun adventure with Adelaide and Dev. While I did correctly guess the killer, I was completely unprepared for the ending. Take note. FAREWELL Blues. Though everything wraps up as I had hoped for our two leads (and for Beckett and Cee, and Rupert, too), I'm really sorry (and surprised) to see the series end here. An excellent series with excellent characters which was much too short.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2021
I haven’t read the first three books, but I found this book easy to connect with, mysterious, and pleasantly Amusing.
The story is set in London in the 1920s, Lady Adelaide Compton's mother, Constance, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton is accused of murdering her secret lover the Duke of Rufford.
Now Addie is teaming up with the ghost of her late husband Rupert and detective Inspector Devenand Hunter to find the real killer of the Duke of Rufford.
This was an enjoyable cozy mystery, with amiable characters.
February 25, 2023
A fun farewell
This series has been so much fun to read. Entertaining plots and engaging characters. I will definitely miss Addie, Dev, and Rupert.
This series has been so much fun to read. Entertaining plots and engaging characters. I will definitely miss Addie, Dev, and Rupert.
May 28, 2024
So sorry this was the last book in the series.
June 23, 2021
It appears this is the last book in this series, as the ending wrapped up everything. I don't see how this can continue, with Rupert finally moved on and Dev no longer working for the Yard. The title is pretty apropos, too. I liked Addie and Dev and even Rupert, although his abilities as a ghost were a bit of a stretch (stealing diaries, doing a fair amount of the actual detecting, etc.). I thought this could have utilized Addie's mother a bit more. For someone almost at the end of her rope, so to speak, she was absent for the entire book. While this was not the best structured mystery, I enjoyed the time period and the characters. This series should be read in order since book 3 transitions directly into book 4. Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2021
With her usual wit, quirky characters with vibrant personalities—no matter their role, a myriad of suspects, and era descriptions, Robinson takes us on our last adventure with Lady Adelaide and the hunky Scotland Yard Detective Inspector. Delightfully, for the romantic side of this reader, the two characters are glued together to solve this last mystery. Rupert, Addie’s ghostly husband, plays his part in both sleuthing and interfering. The suspects are many, and the investigative adventures take the characters into interesting, smokey filled and elegant settings.
The ending was fun and a great wrap-up, not only for the main characters, but for many of the supporting and engaging players in this series.
Sadly, this is the last book in the series, but what a great send-off for the characters who have become friends along the way. I will miss seeing Rupert in his ghostly, playful, sleuthing role. I loved the supporting roles of Maeve and Cee in all the books. I truly look forward to Robinson’s next cozy mystery series, wherever that takes us.
I was given an advanced copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
The ending was fun and a great wrap-up, not only for the main characters, but for many of the supporting and engaging players in this series.
Sadly, this is the last book in the series, but what a great send-off for the characters who have become friends along the way. I will miss seeing Rupert in his ghostly, playful, sleuthing role. I loved the supporting roles of Maeve and Cee in all the books. I truly look forward to Robinson’s next cozy mystery series, wherever that takes us.
I was given an advanced copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
September 15, 2021
Lady Adelaide Compton learns that her very proper mother, Lady Broughton, has been arrested for the murder of her lover, the Duke of Rufford, in their hotel suite at the Ritz; the evidence looks very damning, especially as she was found in her nightclothes holding her own pistol standing over his lifeless body. With the police happy to have such a strong suspect and the press enjoying the fall of a member of the aristocracy it falls on Lady Adelaide to prove her mother's innocence and what better suspects than the late Duke's family, all of whom had reason to wish him ill?
Lady Adelaide can call upon her friendship with Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter, an Anglo-Indian police officer she has become close to over the course of investigating/being involved in several other mysteries, and the ghost of her philandering husband Rupert who is atoning for his wicked life by performing good deeds in order to get into heaven.
This is obviously the fourth book in a series, none of which I have read previously. I found it easy to read this as a stand-alone book as the past history was explained quite early on. However, there was no hint of a Randall and Hopkirk, deceased storyline in the blurb, much less that Rupert had some celestial mission to perform. I thought this was a bizarre plot choice as it meant that Rupert could go anywhere and eavesdrop on conversations, even stealing items to further the investigation, a bit like a deus ex machina.
I could probably have got over Rupert's involvement, indeed he didn't uncover the killer, had it not been for the relentless politically correct agenda. Don't get me wrong, I strongly believe in diversity and inclusion and I am a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community but having characters from the 1920s using twenty-first century terminologies and expressing modern sensibilities (eg treating her maid more like a friend, even going out together and cleaning up in her stead) is just jarring in what was supposed to be an historical novel.
I also felt that the story took too long to move forward, we seemed to be about half way through the book and nothing much had happened, then four (count them, four) epilogues to give all the characters a HEA - it felt as though Maggie Robinson was heartily tired of the series and wanted to ensure that there were absolutely no loose ends to drag her back in.
Having moaned a lot, this was pleasant enough and an easy read.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Lady Adelaide can call upon her friendship with Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter, an Anglo-Indian police officer she has become close to over the course of investigating/being involved in several other mysteries, and the ghost of her philandering husband Rupert who is atoning for his wicked life by performing good deeds in order to get into heaven.
This is obviously the fourth book in a series, none of which I have read previously. I found it easy to read this as a stand-alone book as the past history was explained quite early on. However, there was no hint of a Randall and Hopkirk, deceased storyline in the blurb, much less that Rupert had some celestial mission to perform. I thought this was a bizarre plot choice as it meant that Rupert could go anywhere and eavesdrop on conversations, even stealing items to further the investigation, a bit like a deus ex machina.
I could probably have got over Rupert's involvement, indeed he didn't uncover the killer, had it not been for the relentless politically correct agenda. Don't get me wrong, I strongly believe in diversity and inclusion and I am a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community but having characters from the 1920s using twenty-first century terminologies and expressing modern sensibilities (eg treating her maid more like a friend, even going out together and cleaning up in her stead) is just jarring in what was supposed to be an historical novel.
I also felt that the story took too long to move forward, we seemed to be about half way through the book and nothing much had happened, then four (count them, four) epilogues to give all the characters a HEA - it felt as though Maggie Robinson was heartily tired of the series and wanted to ensure that there were absolutely no loose ends to drag her back in.
Having moaned a lot, this was pleasant enough and an easy read.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
July 2, 2021
. . . A fun and frothy light period mystery with two of the most captivating protagonists you’ll encounter in this genre. The romantic detective duo of Lady Addie and her Scotland Yard “ partner,” Dev, is very improbable, but nonetheless satisfying. They are smart, fun, and get their “ villain” in the end. . . . (Along with a few other rewards).
There is no doubt that a detective novel of this description and content requires a serious “suspension of disbelief,” but it is a long, hot summer and this book was the perfect tonic.
NetGalley provided me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a candid r3view.
There is no doubt that a detective novel of this description and content requires a serious “suspension of disbelief,” but it is a long, hot summer and this book was the perfect tonic.
NetGalley provided me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a candid r3view.
July 25, 2024
This was one of the first cozy mystery series I started and I love the quirky concept that Addie is haunted by her rogue-ish, dead husband. Her attraction the Detective Dev Hunter is well written and you hope for them as a couple.
The mystery here is fun as the story lines are brought to a close. I'd love to read more about Lady Adelaide, but I think this wraps the story up.
The mystery here is fun as the story lines are brought to a close. I'd love to read more about Lady Adelaide, but I think this wraps the story up.
September 1, 2021
Wrapping up this series, Addie and Dev once again solve the crime. This time they saved her mother when she is accused of murdering a duke. It was nice to see how everyone’s lives will turn out. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for my honest review.
September 11, 2021
FAREWELL BLUES by Maggie Robinson is the fourth book in the Lady Adelaide Mystery series. It’s the very well-crafted mystery set in England in 1925 and centered round Lady Adelaide Compton and Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter as they investigate the murder of Duke of Rufford trying to prove that Constance, the Dowager Marchioness of Broughton – the victim’s secret lover and Lady Adelaide’s mother, was not the murderer.
Having seen more than her far share of dead bodies, Adelaide thought she had put crime and investigations behind her as well as the often thought of Inspector. However, when her sister, Cecilia, shows up with news that her mother was in jail for murdering the Duke, it’s Dev she is longing for. However, Detective Inspector Phillip Barnes had been assigned the case. He’s sure beyond a doubt that it is an open and shut case and the rightful criminal is behind bars finding it unnecessary to investigate further.
Lady Broughton, however, talks to Inspector Devenand about proving her innocent sparing no expense. Although unwilling to quit the force and knowing working on the case while on duty would never work, he manages to take a couple weeks off due to injuries sustained in the last adventure with Lady Adelaide freeing him up to help Adelaide find clues to lead them to the real culprit. Adelaide’s only other help is her deceased husband, Rupert, who’s been a regular visitor since his funeral. Seems he has to try to make amends for his life here on earth in order to make it on to heaven. Admittedly, he’s be beneficial in the past and hopefully will be again now. Could helping to prove his mother-in-law’s innocence be what it takes to finally free him from his earthly ties?
Clues begin to add up that the Duke’s family life wasn’t all peaches and cream – that behind doors there were many hard feelings and disputes. Could one of his own kin been the culprit? Did he have bad business dealings that could have led to his murder? Was the crime planned or a crime that just happened in the heat of the moment? How and when did someone get Lady Broughton’s pistol out of her purse to use in the murder?
Along the way, Adelaide and Dev continue to work well together like a well-oiled machine and the mutual attraction, although neither will admit it, puts another page turning touch to the story. One thinks being married once was enough. Although now she’s realizing how much that first one was lacking. The other if fearful that he isn’t worthy of love from someone of such social standings wondering what he could possibly have to offer. The more time they spend together, the more they find out about the other, the stronger their feelings grow. Can there ever be a happily ever after for these two?
FAREWELL BLUES will have you turning pages on this can’t put down book as you look for the clues to help solve the mystery of whodunit. Rupert will have you smiling as he works hard so he can smell apricot custard. Maggie Robinson satisfies your thirst for adventure, want for mystery and the desire for sweet romance all within the pages of this fabulous book. FAREWELL BLUES can be definitely be read as a standalone book, but after reading this one you will yearning to read the other books in the series and searching out more books by this author.
Having seen more than her far share of dead bodies, Adelaide thought she had put crime and investigations behind her as well as the often thought of Inspector. However, when her sister, Cecilia, shows up with news that her mother was in jail for murdering the Duke, it’s Dev she is longing for. However, Detective Inspector Phillip Barnes had been assigned the case. He’s sure beyond a doubt that it is an open and shut case and the rightful criminal is behind bars finding it unnecessary to investigate further.
Lady Broughton, however, talks to Inspector Devenand about proving her innocent sparing no expense. Although unwilling to quit the force and knowing working on the case while on duty would never work, he manages to take a couple weeks off due to injuries sustained in the last adventure with Lady Adelaide freeing him up to help Adelaide find clues to lead them to the real culprit. Adelaide’s only other help is her deceased husband, Rupert, who’s been a regular visitor since his funeral. Seems he has to try to make amends for his life here on earth in order to make it on to heaven. Admittedly, he’s be beneficial in the past and hopefully will be again now. Could helping to prove his mother-in-law’s innocence be what it takes to finally free him from his earthly ties?
Clues begin to add up that the Duke’s family life wasn’t all peaches and cream – that behind doors there were many hard feelings and disputes. Could one of his own kin been the culprit? Did he have bad business dealings that could have led to his murder? Was the crime planned or a crime that just happened in the heat of the moment? How and when did someone get Lady Broughton’s pistol out of her purse to use in the murder?
Along the way, Adelaide and Dev continue to work well together like a well-oiled machine and the mutual attraction, although neither will admit it, puts another page turning touch to the story. One thinks being married once was enough. Although now she’s realizing how much that first one was lacking. The other if fearful that he isn’t worthy of love from someone of such social standings wondering what he could possibly have to offer. The more time they spend together, the more they find out about the other, the stronger their feelings grow. Can there ever be a happily ever after for these two?
FAREWELL BLUES will have you turning pages on this can’t put down book as you look for the clues to help solve the mystery of whodunit. Rupert will have you smiling as he works hard so he can smell apricot custard. Maggie Robinson satisfies your thirst for adventure, want for mystery and the desire for sweet romance all within the pages of this fabulous book. FAREWELL BLUES can be definitely be read as a standalone book, but after reading this one you will yearning to read the other books in the series and searching out more books by this author.
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