What do you think?
Rate this book
Lady Fan Mystery #7
The Dagger Dance
Lady Fan returns in another twisty murder case! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen.
Can Lady Fan unravel another mystery…?
1793, England
After a not-so-relaxing holiday in Tunbridge Wells, Lady Ottilia and Lord Francis Fanshawe have returned to their home with a young orphaned girl, Pertesia ‘Pretty’ Brockhurst.
After losing both her parents in tragic circumstances, Pretty had been abandoned by the rest of her family and the childless Fanshawes have delighted in having her around.
But when her estranged grandfather turns up on their doorstep, Ottilia is worried she will lose the child she is growing so close to.
Meanwhile, their footman Hemp Roy, has run into trouble. After becoming reacquainted with Dorote, a woman from his past life in Barbados, Hemp is desperate to help her when she is accused of murder in Bristol.
And who better to turn to than his trusted Lady Fan?
Can Lady Fan save Dorote – and Hemp? Will she unmask the killer?
And what will happen to the poor orphan girl under her care…?
THE DAGGER DANCE is the seventh book in the Lady Fan Mystery series: historical romance murder mysteries with a courageous woman sleuth embarking on a traditional British, private investigation in eighteenth-century London.
Can Lady Fan unravel another mystery…?
1793, England
After a not-so-relaxing holiday in Tunbridge Wells, Lady Ottilia and Lord Francis Fanshawe have returned to their home with a young orphaned girl, Pertesia ‘Pretty’ Brockhurst.
After losing both her parents in tragic circumstances, Pretty had been abandoned by the rest of her family and the childless Fanshawes have delighted in having her around.
But when her estranged grandfather turns up on their doorstep, Ottilia is worried she will lose the child she is growing so close to.
Meanwhile, their footman Hemp Roy, has run into trouble. After becoming reacquainted with Dorote, a woman from his past life in Barbados, Hemp is desperate to help her when she is accused of murder in Bristol.
And who better to turn to than his trusted Lady Fan?
Can Lady Fan save Dorote – and Hemp? Will she unmask the killer?
And what will happen to the poor orphan girl under her care…?
THE DAGGER DANCE is the seventh book in the Lady Fan Mystery series: historical romance murder mysteries with a courageous woman sleuth embarking on a traditional British, private investigation in eighteenth-century London.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2021
343 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Bailey
95 books304 followersAn avid reader from an early age, Elizabeth Bailey grew up in colonial Africa under unconventional parentage and with theatre in the blood. Back in England, she trod the boards until discovering her true métier as a writer in her thirties, when she fulfilled an early addiction to Georgette Heyer by launching into historical romance. Eight years and eight books later, Elizabeth joined the Harlequin Mills & Boon stable, fuelling her writing with a secondary career teaching and directing drama, and writing plays into the bargain.
With 18 historicals published, Elizabeth turned to other genres, producing two titles (Fly the Wild Echoes and For One More Tomorrow) in the cross-genre literary/paranormal field as well as a suspense novella (Silence of a Stranger). She has several short stories available too and a guide for writers on editing.
Continuing her foray into other genres, but returning to her favourite historical period, Elizabeth turned to mystery. She placed her female sleuth in the late Georgian world of intrigue, elegance, aristocrats and rogues, where privilege rubbed shoulders with the harsh realities of making ends meet. While Ottilia moves in the upper echelon of Society, she is thoroughly at ease in the lower, which allows Elizabeth to cross boundaries with impunity. These novels are now published with Sapere Books and the list continues to grow.
Sapere also publish her Brides by Chance Regency Adventures, a series dedicated to the countless women who could not ordinarily hope for romance and marriage: poor relations, dowerless females, those who did not "take", orphans. In a word, the classic Cinderella heroine.
Now retired from teaching, Elizabeth concentrates on writing and promotion, with a sideline in running an assessment critique service for writers.
With 18 historicals published, Elizabeth turned to other genres, producing two titles (Fly the Wild Echoes and For One More Tomorrow) in the cross-genre literary/paranormal field as well as a suspense novella (Silence of a Stranger). She has several short stories available too and a guide for writers on editing.
Continuing her foray into other genres, but returning to her favourite historical period, Elizabeth turned to mystery. She placed her female sleuth in the late Georgian world of intrigue, elegance, aristocrats and rogues, where privilege rubbed shoulders with the harsh realities of making ends meet. While Ottilia moves in the upper echelon of Society, she is thoroughly at ease in the lower, which allows Elizabeth to cross boundaries with impunity. These novels are now published with Sapere Books and the list continues to grow.
Sapere also publish her Brides by Chance Regency Adventures, a series dedicated to the countless women who could not ordinarily hope for romance and marriage: poor relations, dowerless females, those who did not "take", orphans. In a word, the classic Cinderella heroine.
Now retired from teaching, Elizabeth concentrates on writing and promotion, with a sideline in running an assessment critique service for writers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 16, 2021
Series: Lady Fan Mystery #7
Publication Date: 4/13/21
Number of Pages: 341
While this is the seventh book in the series, I feel as if we are just getting started. The book is exciting and filled with red herrings that will keep you guessing whodunit. The only thing you know for sure is that Dorote Gabon didn’t do it. Admittedly, it took me two or three books into the series to warm up to Ottilia and Francis, but now I love them and can hardly wait from one book to the next. This one has a delightful twist that you will love at the end. Oh! And there is a pirate.
It is March of 1793 and Ottilia and Francis are enjoying time at their home, Flitteris. Ottilia’s nephews are visiting and, of course, the lovely young child, Pretty, from the last book is in residence. Things are in happy chaos when Ottilia receives a message from Hemp Roy asking her to come to Bristol to save Dorote Gabon, a woman from his past. Dorote, a slave, has been accused of murder and Hemp knows she is innocent.
Dorote was discovered standing over the body of her owner, Marcus Scalloway, with a bloody knife that she admitted was hers. Sounds like an open and shut case until Ottilia speaks with Dorote and comes to believe what Dorote has to say. It seems that everyone who knew Scalloway had reason to dislike him enough to kill him, so there is no shortage of suspects. It can be anybody from his wife, to her lover, to his business partner, to his skulking minion, to his partner’s skulking minion, or even the pirate who was captaining Scalloway’s ship when it sank.
Ottilia, Francis, and Hemp have their work cut out for them with this investigation and it is even more difficult than usual because Ottilia is ill and Francis has to take on a good bit of the investigation. Hemp doesn’t care who killed the man as long as they can prove that Dorote is innocent – and he also wants to get Dorote free from slavery. That last part may be harder than proving her innocent of murder.
I can definitely recommend this fast-paced, well-written historical mystery. The characters are wonderful and the mystery is intriguing. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Publication Date: 4/13/21
Number of Pages: 341
While this is the seventh book in the series, I feel as if we are just getting started. The book is exciting and filled with red herrings that will keep you guessing whodunit. The only thing you know for sure is that Dorote Gabon didn’t do it. Admittedly, it took me two or three books into the series to warm up to Ottilia and Francis, but now I love them and can hardly wait from one book to the next. This one has a delightful twist that you will love at the end. Oh! And there is a pirate.
It is March of 1793 and Ottilia and Francis are enjoying time at their home, Flitteris. Ottilia’s nephews are visiting and, of course, the lovely young child, Pretty, from the last book is in residence. Things are in happy chaos when Ottilia receives a message from Hemp Roy asking her to come to Bristol to save Dorote Gabon, a woman from his past. Dorote, a slave, has been accused of murder and Hemp knows she is innocent.
Dorote was discovered standing over the body of her owner, Marcus Scalloway, with a bloody knife that she admitted was hers. Sounds like an open and shut case until Ottilia speaks with Dorote and comes to believe what Dorote has to say. It seems that everyone who knew Scalloway had reason to dislike him enough to kill him, so there is no shortage of suspects. It can be anybody from his wife, to her lover, to his business partner, to his skulking minion, to his partner’s skulking minion, or even the pirate who was captaining Scalloway’s ship when it sank.
Ottilia, Francis, and Hemp have their work cut out for them with this investigation and it is even more difficult than usual because Ottilia is ill and Francis has to take on a good bit of the investigation. Hemp doesn’t care who killed the man as long as they can prove that Dorote is innocent – and he also wants to get Dorote free from slavery. That last part may be harder than proving her innocent of murder.
I can definitely recommend this fast-paced, well-written historical mystery. The characters are wonderful and the mystery is intriguing. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
April 13, 2021
The Dagger Dance
Lady Fan Mystery Series #7
Elizabeth Bailey
https://www.facebook.com/authorelizab...
Release Date 04/13/2021
Publisher Sapere Books
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Lady Fan returns in another twisty murder case! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen. Can Lady Fan unravel another mystery…?
1793, England
After a not-so-relaxing holiday in Tunbridge Wells, Lady Ottilia and Lord Francis Fanshawe have returned to their home with a young orphaned girl, Pertesia ‘Pretty’ Brockhurst.
After losing both her parents in tragic circumstances, Pretty had been abandoned by the rest of her family and the childless Fanshawes have delighted in having her around.
But when her estranged grandfather turns up on their doorstep, Ottilia is worried she will lose the child she is growing so close to.
Meanwhile, their footman Hemp Roy, has run into trouble. After becoming reacquainted with Dorote, a woman from his past life in Barbados, Hemp is desperate to help her when she is accused of murder in Bristol.
And who better to turn to than his trusted Lady Fan?
Can Lady Fan save Dorote – and Hemp? Will she unmask the killer?
And what will happen to the poor orphan girl under her care…?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to clear a slave’s name by revealing the true culprit...
Yesterday after reading the three first chapters, I had to switch this book for the first one in this series, to get to know the main characters as the beginning of my reading gave me a first wrong impression about Ottilia.
So now that I have gripped some insights about the heroine’s characters, I can come back to this book.
I still have to determine who is who in the many side characters, but I now have a global picture with some holes to fill.
And while at first I was prejudicial about Ottilia, after reading the first book, I appreciated her much more. There is no more bragging about how remarkable and incredible she is, which was a relief and to be welcomed.
I liked the quiet wit full and easily understood relationship she shares with her husband, it is one of mutual respect and appreciation. Together they are for better and for worse.
I won’t say much about the murder investigation, but for this one, I did not see coming the culprit, but I should have. Yet Ottilia is someone who cares, perhaps too much, still it is because of her deep empathy she jumps immediately to the rescue of her employee turned friend Hemp.
And determined she is once she ascertains the designed culprit is in fact an other victim.
However my mind was more focused on the many interactions between the main characters, the changes rightly occurring in Ottilia and Francis’s life and those to come soon as my suspicions were priced right, and also what about Hemp and his ladylove Doro.
In all, it was much entertaining to follow this study as it showed the various colors of the involved protagonists from the lowly to the lofty, the enslaved to those walking free.
A great paint of the period, right before a new lengthy war takes its toll.
It was much diverting to watch the characters interacting, the lively description of the seedy parts of city, the detailed menus as the heroes love their food, and to put clue with clue.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some embraces
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Lady Fan Mystery Series #7
Elizabeth Bailey
https://www.facebook.com/authorelizab...
Release Date 04/13/2021
Publisher Sapere Books
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Lady Fan returns in another twisty murder case! For fans of Georgette Heyer, Mary Balogh, Barbara Erskine and Jane Austen. Can Lady Fan unravel another mystery…?
1793, England
After a not-so-relaxing holiday in Tunbridge Wells, Lady Ottilia and Lord Francis Fanshawe have returned to their home with a young orphaned girl, Pertesia ‘Pretty’ Brockhurst.
After losing both her parents in tragic circumstances, Pretty had been abandoned by the rest of her family and the childless Fanshawes have delighted in having her around.
But when her estranged grandfather turns up on their doorstep, Ottilia is worried she will lose the child she is growing so close to.
Meanwhile, their footman Hemp Roy, has run into trouble. After becoming reacquainted with Dorote, a woman from his past life in Barbados, Hemp is desperate to help her when she is accused of murder in Bristol.
And who better to turn to than his trusted Lady Fan?
Can Lady Fan save Dorote – and Hemp? Will she unmask the killer?
And what will happen to the poor orphan girl under her care…?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to clear a slave’s name by revealing the true culprit...
Yesterday after reading the three first chapters, I had to switch this book for the first one in this series, to get to know the main characters as the beginning of my reading gave me a first wrong impression about Ottilia.
So now that I have gripped some insights about the heroine’s characters, I can come back to this book.
I still have to determine who is who in the many side characters, but I now have a global picture with some holes to fill.
And while at first I was prejudicial about Ottilia, after reading the first book, I appreciated her much more. There is no more bragging about how remarkable and incredible she is, which was a relief and to be welcomed.
I liked the quiet wit full and easily understood relationship she shares with her husband, it is one of mutual respect and appreciation. Together they are for better and for worse.
I won’t say much about the murder investigation, but for this one, I did not see coming the culprit, but I should have. Yet Ottilia is someone who cares, perhaps too much, still it is because of her deep empathy she jumps immediately to the rescue of her employee turned friend Hemp.
And determined she is once she ascertains the designed culprit is in fact an other victim.
However my mind was more focused on the many interactions between the main characters, the changes rightly occurring in Ottilia and Francis’s life and those to come soon as my suspicions were priced right, and also what about Hemp and his ladylove Doro.
In all, it was much entertaining to follow this study as it showed the various colors of the involved protagonists from the lowly to the lofty, the enslaved to those walking free.
A great paint of the period, right before a new lengthy war takes its toll.
It was much diverting to watch the characters interacting, the lively description of the seedy parts of city, the detailed menus as the heroes love their food, and to put clue with clue.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some embraces
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
April 17, 2021
Tilly's BACK! and she is on fire!
“What threat did you use, my ruthless one?”
Book 1 was my favourite book as far as Tilly's quiet confidence and cleverness is concerned. However, much has changed in Tilly's life. She has become a titled lady, embraced her husband's family including the indomnitable Lady Sybilla(my favourite secondary character) and has had to deal with the fallout of losing a cherished baby. Francis and Tilly have weathered this loss and Francis has now accepted the presence of Pretty from Book 6.
Tilly seemed to have lost some of her self confidence from about Book 3 and at times appeared to be quite exasperating except when investigating a murder.
Tilly and Francis' relationship seems stronger than ever in this book and their obvious love for each other shone throughout. I have stated in other reviews that I adore Tilly's humour, her adorable gurgle and her penchant for placing her hand on her 'dearest dear's' chest. The dialogue of the various characters was perfect and I chuckled over the reparte between Tillly and Francis, especially when Francis was commenting on Tilly's appetite as well as her drinking tea instead of coffee. (I will say no more of that)
The continuation of the storyline of slavery and ownership is woven throughout the main story as well as Hemp and Doro's story. Although Elinor Scalloway has a deplorable attitude towards her ownership of Doro, I am acutely aware of the fact that Elinor herself was 'sold' off to Marcus Scalloway by her father as a contractual marriage. Also rumbling in the background is the French Revolution and its effect on the economy.
Once this book hit my Kindle reader, I schooled myself to read the book over several days rather than scoff it down in one hit as I always do with Lady Fan mysteries. Here's hoping to continued good fortune for the Fanshawes!
“What threat did you use, my ruthless one?”
Book 1 was my favourite book as far as Tilly's quiet confidence and cleverness is concerned. However, much has changed in Tilly's life. She has become a titled lady, embraced her husband's family including the indomnitable Lady Sybilla(my favourite secondary character) and has had to deal with the fallout of losing a cherished baby. Francis and Tilly have weathered this loss and Francis has now accepted the presence of Pretty from Book 6.
Tilly seemed to have lost some of her self confidence from about Book 3 and at times appeared to be quite exasperating except when investigating a murder.
Tilly and Francis' relationship seems stronger than ever in this book and their obvious love for each other shone throughout. I have stated in other reviews that I adore Tilly's humour, her adorable gurgle and her penchant for placing her hand on her 'dearest dear's' chest. The dialogue of the various characters was perfect and I chuckled over the reparte between Tillly and Francis, especially when Francis was commenting on Tilly's appetite as well as her drinking tea instead of coffee. (I will say no more of that)
The continuation of the storyline of slavery and ownership is woven throughout the main story as well as Hemp and Doro's story. Although Elinor Scalloway has a deplorable attitude towards her ownership of Doro, I am acutely aware of the fact that Elinor herself was 'sold' off to Marcus Scalloway by her father as a contractual marriage. Also rumbling in the background is the French Revolution and its effect on the economy.
Once this book hit my Kindle reader, I schooled myself to read the book over several days rather than scoff it down in one hit as I always do with Lady Fan mysteries. Here's hoping to continued good fortune for the Fanshawes!
April 11, 2021
Enjoyable, fascinating and injected with historical bits all over the place, The Dagger Dance is a splendid novel about love, loss and hope. Secrets and mysteries abound, including murder, of course! The cover and title are perfection.
Set in England in 1793, Lady Ottilia (Tillie) and Lord Francis Fanshawe (Fan) have found themselves smack dab in the middle of murder solving. Not only that but darling little Pretty has been orphaned and is living with the Fanshawes, delighting the young couple. I can just picture her and her sweet curls! But her biological grandfather appears out of nowhere on their doorstep to claim her and life inevitably changes.
The footman, Hemp, is entrenched with troubles of his own. Doro is accused of murder and he is desperate to clear her reputation and name. The Fanshawes are able to help and inveigle by "using" their titles and cleverness. The upstairs/downstairs juxtaposition is beautifully done. The chasm between classes is very deep. The addition of history at the time is fabulous, too, such as the mention of Louis XVI's execution. Food descriptions are scrumptious! Plus the author's notes at the end provide personal glimpses into her inspirations for characters and place. Elizabeth Bailey truly is a superb writer.
Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction, Mystery and General Fiction fans ought to read this and other books by Bailey.
My sincere thank you to Sapere Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading the e-ARC of this delightful book! I read it on a blizzardy April evening whilst sipping hot chocolate. Pure joy. Well, except for the blizzard.
Set in England in 1793, Lady Ottilia (Tillie) and Lord Francis Fanshawe (Fan) have found themselves smack dab in the middle of murder solving. Not only that but darling little Pretty has been orphaned and is living with the Fanshawes, delighting the young couple. I can just picture her and her sweet curls! But her biological grandfather appears out of nowhere on their doorstep to claim her and life inevitably changes.
The footman, Hemp, is entrenched with troubles of his own. Doro is accused of murder and he is desperate to clear her reputation and name. The Fanshawes are able to help and inveigle by "using" their titles and cleverness. The upstairs/downstairs juxtaposition is beautifully done. The chasm between classes is very deep. The addition of history at the time is fabulous, too, such as the mention of Louis XVI's execution. Food descriptions are scrumptious! Plus the author's notes at the end provide personal glimpses into her inspirations for characters and place. Elizabeth Bailey truly is a superb writer.
Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction, Mystery and General Fiction fans ought to read this and other books by Bailey.
My sincere thank you to Sapere Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading the e-ARC of this delightful book! I read it on a blizzardy April evening whilst sipping hot chocolate. Pure joy. Well, except for the blizzard.
April 4, 2023
This was another good addition to the Lady Fan series. I am still enamored with Otillia and her husband Francis. I love their dynamic and how he trusts her enough to go along with her on some pretty out-there mysteries. There is a lot of love and respect between them, which is great to see. The mystery was a good one. It had enough twists and turns to keep me interested and wanting to see what happened next. I still love Hemp and I am glad that his lost love Doro was introduced into the series and can't wait to read more about their burgeoning relationship further on in the series. My one quibble would be that I could have done without the familial drama at the beginning, other than that it was very good. Currently, there are two more books in the series, and I can't wait to get to them.
May 14, 2023
I feel this could have been a good book since the story line was good. But Lord and Lady Fan were too bizarre. Was she always this bossy? I mean, this is not the first book in the series and here she is 'Lady Fan' and pulls rank but I see that she was a lady's maid in the first book. was she as bossy then? And how come everybody accepts that she has the authority to question people and solve the crime? I was not too happy with the last 2 or 3 historical mysteries I read that I thought I have historical mystery fatigue and need to give it a bit of a break. Then I went and checked the goodreads reviews and saw that I am not the only one who feels this way.
January 10, 2023
a good addition to the series
Lady Ottilia Fanshawe has a reputation for solving murders in Georgian England.
She will embroil herself in murder yet again to help Dorote a past friend of Hemp her footman. She and her husband will hotfoot it to Bristol and find herself moving in the dark underworld of the city. The story moves at a fast pace with plenty of suspects you will find it hard to choose a culprit.
Book 7 in the Lady Fan series keeps the series rolling along apace.
Lady Ottilia Fanshawe has a reputation for solving murders in Georgian England.
She will embroil herself in murder yet again to help Dorote a past friend of Hemp her footman. She and her husband will hotfoot it to Bristol and find herself moving in the dark underworld of the city. The story moves at a fast pace with plenty of suspects you will find it hard to choose a culprit.
Book 7 in the Lady Fan series keeps the series rolling along apace.
May 1, 2021
Lady Fan is one of my favorite characters and I enjoy each book in the series. In this book, Lady Fan's footman, Hemp, is looking to leave her service and open a business. While looking for businesses in Bristol, he stumbles over his former girlfriend from Barbados. Doro is still a slave and she finds her master dead and is accused of the murder. Hemp calls on Lady Fan to find the real killer.
Yes, there are definitely some far-fetched moments, but overall the story is enjoyable and the mystery complex enough to keep my interest.
Yes, there are definitely some far-fetched moments, but overall the story is enjoyable and the mystery complex enough to keep my interest.
August 23, 2023
Interesting story regarding slavery in England at the time
April 26, 2021
Sheer brilliance
Lady Fan’s brilliant mind can only reflect the mind of her creator, who spins her tales out of whole cloth. Bailey has the gift of blending the ingredients of tortuous mysteries with her romances so well that both are enhanced. I love the way she keeps the relationship of Lord and Lady Fan alive and growing. Their deep love does not mean they don’t have their irritations and arguments. The context is beautifully realised and there is no such thing as a cardboard stereotype in her books. Couple that with her impeccable prose and editing,and you have a master class in writing, in any genre. A must read.
Lady Fan’s brilliant mind can only reflect the mind of her creator, who spins her tales out of whole cloth. Bailey has the gift of blending the ingredients of tortuous mysteries with her romances so well that both are enhanced. I love the way she keeps the relationship of Lord and Lady Fan alive and growing. Their deep love does not mean they don’t have their irritations and arguments. The context is beautifully realised and there is no such thing as a cardboard stereotype in her books. Couple that with her impeccable prose and editing,and you have a master class in writing, in any genre. A must read.
April 20, 2021
This had me guessing until the end as to who was the culprit. One of the things I like best of all is the loving relationship between Otilla, Lady Fan and her husband, Lord Francis. Lady Fan can be managing but she always solves the mystery. Elizabeth Bailey, always expertly sets the scene for the time era. The mannerism, the way they speak, not to mention the attitudes of the time. In particular, in this story is the owning of people as slaves and the ‘owner’s’ attitude towards them. We also learn a little more about Hemp Roy and his life in Barbados. This was an enthralling read that I didn’t want to put down.
April 22, 2021
The Dagger Dance kept me guessing until the end! This beautifully written book has an intriguing plot and wonderful characters. This is my first book I’ve read by Elizabeth Bailey. I am certain I will read more, and I look forward to her next book!
April 29, 2021
Wonderful story
I do enjoy the Lady Fan mysteries and this book is a good example. Set at a time when slavery was still legal in England this story examines the quest of freedom and the bravery of a slave girl as she endures an accusation of being a murderer. Enter Lady Fan and her husband, along with Hemp to save the girl and solve the crimes.
Enjoyable story.
I do enjoy the Lady Fan mysteries and this book is a good example. Set at a time when slavery was still legal in England this story examines the quest of freedom and the bravery of a slave girl as she endures an accusation of being a murderer. Enter Lady Fan and her husband, along with Hemp to save the girl and solve the crimes.
Enjoyable story.
April 26, 2022
1793 . The Fanshawes steward Hemp Roy needs Lady Fan's help. Old friend Dorote, from his time in Barbados has been accused of the murder of her owner Marcus Scalloway of Bristol. With all the help she receives can she find the motive and then the guilty party.
An entertaining Georgian mystery
An entertaining Georgian mystery
April 20, 2021
Excellent read!
I have welcomed each new installment of the Lady Fan mysteries with eager anticipation. This latest did the author credit! The character development is delightful, the story intriguing and the window into the mysterious past of Hemp Roy was satisfying. Well done!
I have welcomed each new installment of the Lady Fan mysteries with eager anticipation. This latest did the author credit! The character development is delightful, the story intriguing and the window into the mysterious past of Hemp Roy was satisfying. Well done!
April 17, 2021
Twists and turns
Two ingredients all good mysteries should have. Ms Bailey supplies these squared. She adds delightful characters and several horrible villains to round out her tale.
Two ingredients all good mysteries should have. Ms Bailey supplies these squared. She adds delightful characters and several horrible villains to round out her tale.
April 16, 2021
Fantastic read
As always, beautifully written, compelling plot, fantastic characters. Elizabeth Bailey is one of my favorite authors - she never disappoints.
As always, beautifully written, compelling plot, fantastic characters. Elizabeth Bailey is one of my favorite authors - she never disappoints.
May 7, 2021
Story examining real life
Every page told another bit of the story.I love a book which teaches you something. It was lovely to anticipate lady Fans news confirmed at the end of the book
Every page told another bit of the story.I love a book which teaches you something. It was lovely to anticipate lady Fans news confirmed at the end of the book
April 16, 2021
Good
A good book and readable.I enjoyed the story line which flowed well and also was believable.The characters developed slowly and made it an interesting read glad about the pregnancy☺
A good book and readable.I enjoyed the story line which flowed well and also was believable.The characters developed slowly and made it an interesting read glad about the pregnancy☺
February 27, 2024
Okay, I'm now done with Lady Fan. Her constant "gurgle"(is she gargling? choking? what??), and the continual effusive protestions of everlasting devotion from Tillie and Francis to each other just plain wore me out. The Dagger Dance is full of, replete with, and overflowing with descriptions of the Fanshawe's hatred of slavery that just don't ring true. Ever so subtle remarks about Hemp and Doro reveal a patronizing manner from the rich and white towards those who are neither. The series started out well but doesn't stand up to the test of time. I will not be revisiting this series.
April 28, 2021
On a visit to Bristol, Hemp unexpectedly meets Doro, the woman he loves, who betrayed him years ago in Barbados. Still a slave in the house of Marcus Scalloway, the man she left him for, she is obviously unhappy, but reluctant to speak to him. But when he visits her master's house the next day to see her, he finds that she's in prison, accused of Scalloway's murder after being found with the murder weapon, a dagger, in her hand at his tavern bedside. Hemp immediately calls in Lady Fan to clear Doro's name and find the murderer - but with so many potential suspects to choose from, it won't be an easy task. It seems that no one liked Scalloway, from the wife who was planning to leave him, to the man she plans to leave with, to the partner he owes money to or even the captain who claims he double-crossed him. Will Lady Fan be able to prove Doro's innocence?
I think I've missed a couple of books in the series, so I wasn't quite up to date with Lady Fan's life, but that in no way detracted from my enjoyment of the story. The mystery itself stands alone, but reading the stories in order follows the happenings of Lady Fan's life in the background. This story focuses a little more on Hemp, and it was interesting to see more of him. The mystery was well managed and carefully and neatly unfolded, and the background really brought the characters to life, as always. Obviously the story involves murder, but there's nothing too graphic, and while there is adultery/prostitution, there is nothing explicit. I look forward to (hopefully) seeing more of Doro and Hemp in future stories, as well as Lord Francis and Lady Fan.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I think I've missed a couple of books in the series, so I wasn't quite up to date with Lady Fan's life, but that in no way detracted from my enjoyment of the story. The mystery itself stands alone, but reading the stories in order follows the happenings of Lady Fan's life in the background. This story focuses a little more on Hemp, and it was interesting to see more of him. The mystery was well managed and carefully and neatly unfolded, and the background really brought the characters to life, as always. Obviously the story involves murder, but there's nothing too graphic, and while there is adultery/prostitution, there is nothing explicit. I look forward to (hopefully) seeing more of Doro and Hemp in future stories, as well as Lord Francis and Lady Fan.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
October 29, 2022
An Evil Past Intrudes on the Present
Lady Fan and her husband Lord Francis are enjoying a visit from her two nephews who are helping their ward Pretty adapt to her new home. But their idyll is interrupted by the arrival of Pretty's maternal grandfather who wants to take the toddler home to raise.
Their decision is postponed when their steward, Hemp, a freeborn black man from Barbados, asks for Lady Fan's help when a slave is accused of killing her master. They accompany Hemp to Bristol to exonerate Hemp's long lost love., Dorote.
The victim was known for his crooked business dealings and his violent treatment of his wife and their slaves. He left behind a slew of suspects with their own potential motives for murder.
Lord and Lady Fan are joined by Hemp in their hunt for the real culprit. Their only fee was to demand Dorote's freedom.
As usual, Emily Bailey draws a vivid picture of life in the British seaport town with the most lucrative trade with the Caribbean. Lord and Lady Fan strengthen their bond as they face down pirates and slaveholders as well as the possible loss of their beloved foster child. And Hemp's tender love for Dorote, who has been battered by abuse is touching and sensitively told.
If you like the mysteries of Ashley Gardner's Captain Lacey, you will find this series very satisfying. I am now ready to read the next Lady Fan adventure and hope there will be more to come..
Lady Fan and her husband Lord Francis are enjoying a visit from her two nephews who are helping their ward Pretty adapt to her new home. But their idyll is interrupted by the arrival of Pretty's maternal grandfather who wants to take the toddler home to raise.
Their decision is postponed when their steward, Hemp, a freeborn black man from Barbados, asks for Lady Fan's help when a slave is accused of killing her master. They accompany Hemp to Bristol to exonerate Hemp's long lost love., Dorote.
The victim was known for his crooked business dealings and his violent treatment of his wife and their slaves. He left behind a slew of suspects with their own potential motives for murder.
Lord and Lady Fan are joined by Hemp in their hunt for the real culprit. Their only fee was to demand Dorote's freedom.
As usual, Emily Bailey draws a vivid picture of life in the British seaport town with the most lucrative trade with the Caribbean. Lord and Lady Fan strengthen their bond as they face down pirates and slaveholders as well as the possible loss of their beloved foster child. And Hemp's tender love for Dorote, who has been battered by abuse is touching and sensitively told.
If you like the mysteries of Ashley Gardner's Captain Lacey, you will find this series very satisfying. I am now ready to read the next Lady Fan adventure and hope there will be more to come..
May 17, 2021
1793 England. The Lady Fanshawe alias Tillie. On the way to solving another murder/s. Nothing I like more. Vintage mystery murder detection, add to that the English aristocracy yes to all that.
Lady Fan has been unwittingly drawn into an investigation. A enslaved woman, beloved of Hemp (very close to Lady Fan) appeals to her as his love Doro has been detained in the murder of a rather unpleasant Lord. His wife, upto the date of his murder who detested him, wanted him out of the way, and was on the verge of leaving him for another younger man - now professes distraught at his death. She deliberately leaves Doro her slave to the fate of imprisonment and hanging and pretends that nothing has happened.
It is upto Lady Fan along with her husband who ably supports her to find out the ramifications of why the man was killed, by whom and to get Doro out of the clutches of the law.
Beautifully told, very descriptive of both life in London - the slums of London at the time seem horrible and unimaginable and how people survived there is totally unreal. It however gives one an idea of what people did to survive and survive they did.
A side story in this which was interesting but only added a bit of variation was the story of orphan Pretty and the position in the Fanshawe household.
Lady Fan has been unwittingly drawn into an investigation. A enslaved woman, beloved of Hemp (very close to Lady Fan) appeals to her as his love Doro has been detained in the murder of a rather unpleasant Lord. His wife, upto the date of his murder who detested him, wanted him out of the way, and was on the verge of leaving him for another younger man - now professes distraught at his death. She deliberately leaves Doro her slave to the fate of imprisonment and hanging and pretends that nothing has happened.
It is upto Lady Fan along with her husband who ably supports her to find out the ramifications of why the man was killed, by whom and to get Doro out of the clutches of the law.
Beautifully told, very descriptive of both life in London - the slums of London at the time seem horrible and unimaginable and how people survived there is totally unreal. It however gives one an idea of what people did to survive and survive they did.
A side story in this which was interesting but only added a bit of variation was the story of orphan Pretty and the position in the Fanshawe household.
April 17, 2021
Number 7 in this fun, entertaining series finds Ottilia and Francis rushing to Bristol when they are summoned by a mysterious urgent request from their steward Hemp. They find themselves working to free a slave girl from Hemp’s past in Barbados. Doro, a maid in the deceased man’s house has become a convenient scapegoat when she discovers his body and in shock, removes the murder weapon (dagger).
There are a plethora of suspects (disgruntled business partners, a disgusted spouse, greedy house staff, a frustrated suitor and even a pirate) which were a bit confusing and convoluted at times. But Ottilia, with her usual quick wit and intelligence, sorts out the villain while also helping Doro to secure her future. And the story ends on an upbeat personal note as well.
While there was a noticeable absence of assorted relatives who normally provide much humor/strife to their adventures, I did not miss them overly much as I always enjoy the Fanshawe’s one-on-one scenes and Hemp’s loyal friendship/service.
Overall another satisfying adventure, and I look forward to their next outing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sapere for providing the early ARC for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
There are a plethora of suspects (disgruntled business partners, a disgusted spouse, greedy house staff, a frustrated suitor and even a pirate) which were a bit confusing and convoluted at times. But Ottilia, with her usual quick wit and intelligence, sorts out the villain while also helping Doro to secure her future. And the story ends on an upbeat personal note as well.
While there was a noticeable absence of assorted relatives who normally provide much humor/strife to their adventures, I did not miss them overly much as I always enjoy the Fanshawe’s one-on-one scenes and Hemp’s loyal friendship/service.
Overall another satisfying adventure, and I look forward to their next outing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sapere for providing the early ARC for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
August 1, 2021
Thanks to Sapere Books, the author and Netgalley for an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
All hail Lady Fan and her enormous brain. In this instalment of the series Lady Fan has to help her friend Hemp save his first love from the gallows. All the while she is feeling a little pique with her wonderful husband as he throws himself too willingly into danger. She has to think about Pretty, the little girl who has come to live with them, and reconcile her feelings for the child with the loneliness she feels after the loss of her own. And why doesn't she feel like drinking coffee anymore?
This book was the most fun to read out of the whole series because, whilst it tackles the serious subject of slavery, the author's talent for dialogue and humour lightens it. I'm also thrilled to see more of Hemp, who truly is a lovely character.
I cannot wait for the next book as this one ended on a bit of a cliffhanger and I am excited to see how it all turns out.
All hail Lady Fan and her enormous brain. In this instalment of the series Lady Fan has to help her friend Hemp save his first love from the gallows. All the while she is feeling a little pique with her wonderful husband as he throws himself too willingly into danger. She has to think about Pretty, the little girl who has come to live with them, and reconcile her feelings for the child with the loneliness she feels after the loss of her own. And why doesn't she feel like drinking coffee anymore?
This book was the most fun to read out of the whole series because, whilst it tackles the serious subject of slavery, the author's talent for dialogue and humour lightens it. I'm also thrilled to see more of Hemp, who truly is a lovely character.
I cannot wait for the next book as this one ended on a bit of a cliffhanger and I am excited to see how it all turns out.
January 6, 2022
Tillie's entitlement concerning Pretty almost ruined this and the last book in this series for me which I otherwise enjoy. That she offers a place to stay to a child which is unwanted by her family is one thing but this compulsion to make her her own is difficult to endure. Already in the last book the way she played the martyr by insisting on not insisting to take Pretty in - to force her husband to give in by silently suffering, all the while being proud of not coercing him by openly suffering - drove me my mad.
Now she is against Mr. Madeley from the outset, without giving him a chance.
Luckily the bulk of the book didn't mention the affair and I sincerely hope it will be resolved in a satisfactory manner in the next book.
Now she is against Mr. Madeley from the outset, without giving him a chance.
Luckily the bulk of the book didn't mention the affair and I sincerely hope it will be resolved in a satisfactory manner in the next book.
April 30, 2021
The Dagger Dance is a cozy mystery set in 1793 England with lots of twists that will keep you guessing until the end of the book. It is the seventh book in the series with Lady Fan, Tillie, and her husband. There are two storylines running in this book, the mystery and the lives of Tillie and her family. Well written and enjoyable, with historical tidbits thrown in to enhance the story. Thank you #NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to give my voluntary and honest opinion of #TheDaggerDance.
April 24, 2021
Love these characters
I still love these characters! I absolutely love the bond between Lord Francis and Lady Fan and their endearments to one another. I am excited for the new additions to the family. I enjoyed Hemp’s and Doro’s love story and can’t wait to see their relationship grow. I also look forward to getting reacquainted with the Dowager and niece Lizzie hopefully in the next book.
I still love these characters! I absolutely love the bond between Lord Francis and Lady Fan and their endearments to one another. I am excited for the new additions to the family. I enjoyed Hemp’s and Doro’s love story and can’t wait to see their relationship grow. I also look forward to getting reacquainted with the Dowager and niece Lizzie hopefully in the next book.
April 29, 2021
Another delightful outing for Lady Fan
The setting is the shipping town of Bristol, where Hemp runs into a former love from Barbados. She is accused of murdering her master which prompts Hemp to send for Lady Fan. Together Lady Fan and Lord Francis treat with servants, minor nobility, the law and all manner of characters.
The setting is the shipping town of Bristol, where Hemp runs into a former love from Barbados. She is accused of murdering her master which prompts Hemp to send for Lady Fan. Together Lady Fan and Lord Francis treat with servants, minor nobility, the law and all manner of characters.
May 7, 2021
Another lady a fan mystery as always a pleasure to read
Once again Lady Fan and her husband pursue the trail of multiple murders. Characters are entertaining and one can envision old England it’s sights and smells. As enjoyable as the first six books, the Dagger Dance engages the reader and is a great read!
Once again Lady Fan and her husband pursue the trail of multiple murders. Characters are entertaining and one can envision old England it’s sights and smells. As enjoyable as the first six books, the Dagger Dance engages the reader and is a great read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews