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Regency Murder & Marriage #2
A Victim, A Viscount, And Miss Mifford
Having come to the realisation that the life of a spinster is only glamorous when one is rich and doesn't live with one's mother, Miss Jane Mifford decides that it is high time she finds herself a man. Fortuitously one - quite literally - lands at her feet in the shape of Mr Ivo Bonville. Handsome, charming, and rich, Mr Bonville is not the usual bachelor one finds in the Cotswolds. Unfortunately, Mr Bonville is soon accused of murdering the local viscount, Lord Crabb, in order to inherit his title. Convinced that a man that handsome - er, kind - cannot possibly be capable of murder, Jane sets out to clear Mr Bonville's name.
Having neither needed nor desired to become a viscount, Ivo Bonville finds himself most vexed when he is accused of murdering his host for his title. As the local constable is too bone-idle to even button up his breeches, Ivo realises that if he wants to clear his name he must do so himself. Thankfully, help is on hand from the delightful local beauty, Miss Mifford, and together she and Ivo begin their investigation.
As the pair attempt to whittle down the long list of suspects with a motive to murder Lord Crabb, Ivo finds himself falling in love with the brave and beautiful Miss Mifford - but can he prove his innocence and prove to Miss Mifford that he wants her as his bride?
This Cozy Regency Romance is the second book in the Regency Murder and Marriage Series but can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel.
Having neither needed nor desired to become a viscount, Ivo Bonville finds himself most vexed when he is accused of murdering his host for his title. As the local constable is too bone-idle to even button up his breeches, Ivo realises that if he wants to clear his name he must do so himself. Thankfully, help is on hand from the delightful local beauty, Miss Mifford, and together she and Ivo begin their investigation.
As the pair attempt to whittle down the long list of suspects with a motive to murder Lord Crabb, Ivo finds himself falling in love with the brave and beautiful Miss Mifford - but can he prove his innocence and prove to Miss Mifford that he wants her as his bride?
This Cozy Regency Romance is the second book in the Regency Murder and Marriage Series but can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2021
241 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Stone
34 books142 followersClaudia Stone was born in South Africa but moved to Plymouth as a young girl. Having trained as an actress at RADA, she moved to New York to pursue her dream of acting on Broadway in 1988. She never did see her name in lights, but she did meet a wonderful Irishman called Conal who whisked her away to the wilds of Kerry, where she has lived ever since.
Claudia and Conal have three children, a dairy farm and a boisterous, black lab called Buddy. When she has any time left over, Claudia enjoys reading Regency as well as writing it.
You can also connect with Claudia on Facebook:
fb.me/ClaudiaStoneAuthor
Claudia and Conal have three children, a dairy farm and a boisterous, black lab called Buddy. When she has any time left over, Claudia enjoys reading Regency as well as writing it.
You can also connect with Claudia on Facebook:
fb.me/ClaudiaStoneAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 9, 2021
A Victim,A Viscount and Miss Mifford by Claudia Stone is the second book in this historical cozy mystery. This time it is Jane Mifford time to shine and she is determined to find out who murdered Lord Crabbe and clear Ivo Boneville's name. Jane thought she was destined to travel to London for a season or remain a spinster at home with her mother. Luckily, Mr. Boneville appears in the village just as his cousin, Lord Crabbe, is murdered. More visits to the village tabbies for gossip to solve the murder lent some humor to a few scenes. All in all and short but enjoyable read.
May 11, 2021
A delightful, fun filled historical mystery that leads to romance and one that I could not put down!
Humor, witty banter, endearing characters and a plethora of suspects bring this story full circle to a very satisfying ending!
Humor, witty banter, endearing characters and a plethora of suspects bring this story full circle to a very satisfying ending!
April 9, 2025
4.1 stars
I am so happy I stumbled upon this series! In this second instalment, I welcomed the same hallmarks that made me enjoy the first book, namely, the fine humour (hilarious!), the colourful and fun side characters, a cute romance and a cosy side mystery that still managed to surprise me with its twists and refined solution! And all wrapped up in a novella for a quick romp of a read! Bravo CS!
P.S. A big Me thing, but I just love the name Ivo 🥰🥰!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2021
Miss Jane Mifford would prefer to stay a spinster forever but now her elder sister Mary is married and a Duchess, Mama won't shut up about Mary's achievement and finding husbands for her other daughters. Jane comes to the sad realization that ANY husband would be preferable to living with her mother the rest of her life! If only she could find an interesting man who was passably attractive with intelligence and wit who is also financially solvent, she would be content. Enter Ivo Bonville, heir to Lord Crabb, come to Plumpton to celebrate his relative's marriage. Ivo literally falls at Jane's feet and becomes enchanted with Jane's kindness and beauty. After a night of warmth, grub and ale at the local inn, Ivo falls soundly asleep only to be woken by his valet with the news Lord Crabb is dead and the doctor suspects poison! Ivo, now Lord Crabb, is quick to be accused by all and sundry, especially the bride, Miss Prunella Hughes, who suspected Ivo crashed the wedding to try to put a stop to it. Ivo wants nothing to do with the title and inheritance. He has his own hard-earned fortune but the villagers suspect him of murder anyway. How can he take on the title if he's under a cloud of suspicion? Only Jane believes in him. Together they set out to find clues that will lead them to the real murderer.
I really liked this story better than the first. It's more charming even though the mystery is insanely predictable. I guessed right away what must have happened and ended up 99% correct in my guess. The romance is sweet even though it's instalove, they have to work together to solve the mystery and overcome the usual misunderstanding.
I noted several typos and spacing errors and some words (a word?) are missing at the end of Chapter 2. My big pet peeve is "alright" when the writer means all right. It doesn't make sense to spell it that way when the meaning is well or good. "Alright" as slang like OK is apparently acceptable now but I don't like it, especially not in period pieces.
I love Jane and relate to her SOOOO much! No, living at home with one's mother for the rest of her life is not at ALL ideal! Jane loves to read like me and she walks for exercise like me. Although she walks because she has an excess of energy and not for her health. I relate to her more than I did Mary. Jane is more sensible than Mary and less prone to dramatics. She falls in love shyly and sweetly as she gets to know Ivo. Ivo is a great man. Like Northcott, he wants to improve the lot of the common man since times are tough. He has enough money of his own to make improvements without his cousin's approval but it's not his place until he inherits. He thinks he'll never inherit because his uncle is marrying and that's OK with him. While he'd like to make a difference in the village, he doesn't really want the responsibility of the title and estate. He's worked his whole life and is a self-made man. The life of an idle gentleman is not for him. I suspect Ivo and Robert will get along splendidly! Ivo is kind, sweet and a decent man. There's nothing not to love about him-unless he turns out to be a murderer. Jane doesn't know him at all, really. They met once before the murder and she believes in him. She has good instincts, obviously, but she should be wary of strangers.
Mrs. Mifford is next door to Mrs. Bennet. She's awful! She does nothing but boast about Mary's marriage and push poor Ivo onto her daughters. Mr. Mifford is kind but can't stop his wife. He makes some snarky comments, showing his personality. Like Mr. Bennet, he prefers to be left alone in his library. The sisters are funny. I like sweet Emily with her head in the clouds and her plain speaking. Of course this means she doesn't know how to tell white lies to appease her mother but I admire people who say what they mean. Eudora, the youngest, tries to hard to be older. This time she's gone overboard and makes herself elderly before her time. She's very silly.
I was shocked when I read someone had murdered Lord Crabb. Then the true nature of his horrid personality comes out. He was truly a nasty man. He squeezed every penny he could. He was so crabby it made him mean to his devoted family servants and threaten to cut their pensions. That's just wrong! He's never made improvements to his estate and doesn't want his land used to expand the water mill. What a nasty, horrid man! Good riddance! The male half of the village is not sad he's gone. I was surprised and slightly shocked that Mrs. Mifford doesn't show any remorse about losing her uncle and doesn't worry about her husband's job! At the very least, the vicar should be worried. They have three daughters to support, they can't mooch of Northcott forever. Lord Crabb seems to have been a little nicer to his young fiancé though. He was anxious to please her on their wedding night. (LOL and BARF at the same time). That's not something every husband thinks about. Why on earth would an 18-year-old Prunella want to marry an octogenarian? Actually I think she has the right idea. Make sure the marriage contract is signed, the banns read and everything and then PRAY the old geezer drops dead anticipating his wedding night... or hasten his demise.
My chief suspect is Prunella. While Ivo and Jane suspect the village witch (white witch or healer) of preparing a poisoned tonic for Lord Crabb with a little push from a man, I suspect Prunella ordered the poisoned tonic. I suspect Prunella has a good reason to associate with Flora, the same reason she is marrying Lord Crabb. I think she is not going to hedge her bets and wants to make sure she's a wealthy widow ASAP. Prunella's father, Sir Charles, says he is opposed to the marriage but agreed to it because his daughter wanted it. He's a doting father. Could he have poisoned Lord Crabb to ensure his daughter gets what she wants without having to marry an elderly man? After all, Sir Charles was the last to socialize with Lord Crabb. He would have poisoned the old man. Ivo didn't eat or drink anything with Lord Crabb and then left the house when Lord Crabb went to bed. It doesn't make sense for him to be the murderer.
It makes more sense for the servants to be the murderer. There's Allen, the elderly butler who is as old as Lord Crabb. He also seems a bit confused or he's being deliberately obtuse ignoring Lord Crabb's orders. Allen is mean to the other servants and accuses someone of stealing paintings. I do not trust him. Mr. Harold, the elderly valet, had the motive and opportunity to commit murder. He has every reason to be upset and his story is so sad. It makes Lord Crabb out to be a wicked villain. Is Mr. Harold telling the truth though? Perhaps Lord Crabb was poisoned by accident? Nora's brother, Jimmy, works for Lord Crabb too and has reason to be upset with Allen but not so much Lord Crabb. I think Jimmy may be a witness to nefarious goings-on though.
The other suspects come from the village. There's Bennett and his friend, two men angry at Lord Crabb for not wanting to expand the mill. Bennett is a hot head and his speech is dangerous. He could be arrested and hanged for speaking his feelings. His friend is quick to reassure Ivo Bennet doesn't mean anything, he's just letting off steam, but when Lord Crabb ends up dead, it sure looks suspicious. I don't blame them for being upset and frustrated but the Crown is quick to condemn anything they suspect of seditious talk. Better not do that in public.
Other characters include Nora, the Miffords' maid. She's a nosy gossip and vindictive. She should get the sack for being lazy. She doesn't do her job and when she does, it's only a bare minimum of work and when she feels slighted, she does even less and even burns food on purpose. I'm not sure why Mrs. Mifford lets the woman get away with that. I certainly wouldn't. Nora's gossip has consequences. Hopefully learns a lesson. Mr. Marrowbone, the constable, is still a lazy, drunken sot who does not want to work. What would he be doing all day if he wasn't the constable? He'll never solve the murder. He doesn't even want to try, assuming Ivo is guilty because it makes his job easier. Mr. Theodore Adonis, the aptly named landscape gardener, has come to redesign Lord Crabb's parkland for Prunella. Adonis may be beautiful but he's rude and arrogant. He sticks around after being let go claiming to have another job. I think he's probably incompetent and lazy because we don't see him working at all. Mr. Just, Lord Crabb's lawyer, is overworked. Between the elderly Lord Crabb's constant demands and changes to his will and the new Viscount trying to get things straight and make changes, the poor lawyer needs a vacation! Yet he says he gets paid by the hour so he's happy to work a lot. This sounds very greedy to me and I'm not sure he's totally honest. Mrs. Cannards is still insanely snoopy, rude and snooty. She's shockingly rude to Ivo's servants. Sarah Hughes, a friend of Mary and Jane's, is lovely and kind. She's sensible but takes people at face value and doesn't think too deeply about things.
I like this charming village and the light, quick romance enough to probably read the third book. I have a growing TBR pile though so I might not get to it.
Recommended for fans of Marion Chesney
I really liked this story better than the first. It's more charming even though the mystery is insanely predictable. I guessed right away what must have happened and ended up 99% correct in my guess. The romance is sweet even though it's instalove, they have to work together to solve the mystery and overcome the usual misunderstanding.
I noted several typos and spacing errors and some words (a word?) are missing at the end of Chapter 2. My big pet peeve is "alright" when the writer means all right. It doesn't make sense to spell it that way when the meaning is well or good. "Alright" as slang like OK is apparently acceptable now but I don't like it, especially not in period pieces.
I love Jane and relate to her SOOOO much! No, living at home with one's mother for the rest of her life is not at ALL ideal! Jane loves to read like me and she walks for exercise like me. Although she walks because she has an excess of energy and not for her health. I relate to her more than I did Mary. Jane is more sensible than Mary and less prone to dramatics. She falls in love shyly and sweetly as she gets to know Ivo. Ivo is a great man. Like Northcott, he wants to improve the lot of the common man since times are tough. He has enough money of his own to make improvements without his cousin's approval but it's not his place until he inherits. He thinks he'll never inherit because his uncle is marrying and that's OK with him. While he'd like to make a difference in the village, he doesn't really want the responsibility of the title and estate. He's worked his whole life and is a self-made man. The life of an idle gentleman is not for him. I suspect Ivo and Robert will get along splendidly! Ivo is kind, sweet and a decent man. There's nothing not to love about him-unless he turns out to be a murderer. Jane doesn't know him at all, really. They met once before the murder and she believes in him. She has good instincts, obviously, but she should be wary of strangers.
Mrs. Mifford is next door to Mrs. Bennet. She's awful! She does nothing but boast about Mary's marriage and push poor Ivo onto her daughters. Mr. Mifford is kind but can't stop his wife. He makes some snarky comments, showing his personality. Like Mr. Bennet, he prefers to be left alone in his library. The sisters are funny. I like sweet Emily with her head in the clouds and her plain speaking. Of course this means she doesn't know how to tell white lies to appease her mother but I admire people who say what they mean. Eudora, the youngest, tries to hard to be older. This time she's gone overboard and makes herself elderly before her time. She's very silly.
I was shocked when I read someone had murdered Lord Crabb. Then the true nature of his horrid personality comes out. He was truly a nasty man. He squeezed every penny he could. He was so crabby it made him mean to his devoted family servants and threaten to cut their pensions. That's just wrong! He's never made improvements to his estate and doesn't want his land used to expand the water mill. What a nasty, horrid man! Good riddance! The male half of the village is not sad he's gone. I was surprised and slightly shocked that Mrs. Mifford doesn't show any remorse about losing her uncle and doesn't worry about her husband's job! At the very least, the vicar should be worried. They have three daughters to support, they can't mooch of Northcott forever. Lord Crabb seems to have been a little nicer to his young fiancé though. He was anxious to please her on their wedding night. (LOL and BARF at the same time). That's not something every husband thinks about. Why on earth would an 18-year-old Prunella want to marry an octogenarian? Actually I think she has the right idea. Make sure the marriage contract is signed, the banns read and everything and then PRAY the old geezer drops dead anticipating his wedding night... or hasten his demise.
My chief suspect is Prunella. While Ivo and Jane suspect the village witch (white witch or healer) of preparing a poisoned tonic for Lord Crabb with a little push from a man, I suspect Prunella ordered the poisoned tonic. I suspect Prunella has a good reason to associate with Flora, the same reason she is marrying Lord Crabb. I think she is not going to hedge her bets and wants to make sure she's a wealthy widow ASAP. Prunella's father, Sir Charles, says he is opposed to the marriage but agreed to it because his daughter wanted it. He's a doting father. Could he have poisoned Lord Crabb to ensure his daughter gets what she wants without having to marry an elderly man? After all, Sir Charles was the last to socialize with Lord Crabb. He would have poisoned the old man. Ivo didn't eat or drink anything with Lord Crabb and then left the house when Lord Crabb went to bed. It doesn't make sense for him to be the murderer.
It makes more sense for the servants to be the murderer. There's Allen, the elderly butler who is as old as Lord Crabb. He also seems a bit confused or he's being deliberately obtuse ignoring Lord Crabb's orders. Allen is mean to the other servants and accuses someone of stealing paintings. I do not trust him. Mr. Harold, the elderly valet, had the motive and opportunity to commit murder. He has every reason to be upset and his story is so sad. It makes Lord Crabb out to be a wicked villain. Is Mr. Harold telling the truth though? Perhaps Lord Crabb was poisoned by accident? Nora's brother, Jimmy, works for Lord Crabb too and has reason to be upset with Allen but not so much Lord Crabb. I think Jimmy may be a witness to nefarious goings-on though.
The other suspects come from the village. There's Bennett and his friend, two men angry at Lord Crabb for not wanting to expand the mill. Bennett is a hot head and his speech is dangerous. He could be arrested and hanged for speaking his feelings. His friend is quick to reassure Ivo Bennet doesn't mean anything, he's just letting off steam, but when Lord Crabb ends up dead, it sure looks suspicious. I don't blame them for being upset and frustrated but the Crown is quick to condemn anything they suspect of seditious talk. Better not do that in public.
Other characters include Nora, the Miffords' maid. She's a nosy gossip and vindictive. She should get the sack for being lazy. She doesn't do her job and when she does, it's only a bare minimum of work and when she feels slighted, she does even less and even burns food on purpose. I'm not sure why Mrs. Mifford lets the woman get away with that. I certainly wouldn't. Nora's gossip has consequences. Hopefully learns a lesson. Mr. Marrowbone, the constable, is still a lazy, drunken sot who does not want to work. What would he be doing all day if he wasn't the constable? He'll never solve the murder. He doesn't even want to try, assuming Ivo is guilty because it makes his job easier. Mr. Theodore Adonis, the aptly named landscape gardener, has come to redesign Lord Crabb's parkland for Prunella. Adonis may be beautiful but he's rude and arrogant. He sticks around after being let go claiming to have another job. I think he's probably incompetent and lazy because we don't see him working at all. Mr. Just, Lord Crabb's lawyer, is overworked. Between the elderly Lord Crabb's constant demands and changes to his will and the new Viscount trying to get things straight and make changes, the poor lawyer needs a vacation! Yet he says he gets paid by the hour so he's happy to work a lot. This sounds very greedy to me and I'm not sure he's totally honest. Mrs. Cannards is still insanely snoopy, rude and snooty. She's shockingly rude to Ivo's servants. Sarah Hughes, a friend of Mary and Jane's, is lovely and kind. She's sensible but takes people at face value and doesn't think too deeply about things.
I like this charming village and the light, quick romance enough to probably read the third book. I have a growing TBR pile though so I might not get to it.
Recommended for fans of Marion Chesney
March 23, 2021
This was funny and a nice, easy read. The mystery aspect was light but enough to add some interest to this otherwise cute story. I appreciated the clean content and the heroine's snarky inner monologue. I'm looking forward to the next sister's book! :)
March 11, 2021
The second book in the Regency Murder and Marriage series a well written murder mystery story with suspense, drama, danger, a villain and romance between Miss Jane Mifford, and Viscount Ivo Bonville. I was not putting this book down until I had finished it. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2021
🔍A Victim, A Viscount, and Miss Mifford 🔎
Regency Murder And Marriage Series #2
✒️Claudia Stone
https://m.facebook.com/ClaudiaStoneAu...
Release Date 03/10/2021
➪ https://geni.us/F82uzr
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Having come to the realisation that the life of a spinster is only glamorous when one is rich and doesn't live with one's mother, Miss Jane Mifford decides that it is hight time she finds herself a man. Fortuitously one - quite literally - lands at her feet in the shape of Mr Ivo Bonville. Handsome, charming, and rich, Mr Bonville is not the usual bachelor one finds in the Cotswolds. Unfortunately, Mr Bonville is soon accused of murdering the local viscount, Lord Crabb, in order to inherit his title. Convinced that a man as handsome - er, kind - cannot possibly be capable of murder, Jane sets out to clear Mr Bonville's name, with a little help from the man himself.
Having neither needed nor desired to become a viscount, Ivo Bonville finds himself most vexed when he is accused of murdering his host for his title. As the local constable is too bone-idle to even button up his breeches, Ivo realises that if he wants to clear his name he must do so himself. Thankfully, help is on hand from the delightful local beauty, Miss Mifford, and together she and Ivo begin their investigation.
As the pair attempt to whittle down the long list of suspects with a motive to murder Lord Crabb, Ivo finds himself falling in love with the brave and beautiful Miss Mifford? But can he prove his innocence and prove to Miss Mifford that he wants her as his bride?
This Cozy Regency Romance is the second book in the Regency Murder and Marriage series.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will his homecoming be tainted by underserved accusations...
I have the first in this series taking dust on my kindle shelves because without a deadline, I am unable to read the many books. Airing for my attention. So when I came upon this forthcoming release, impossible to pass it, even with the crazy schedule I trapped myself in.
I so loved this book, and from the first few lines, a mix of Enola Holmes and Pride and Prejudice for the heroine’s parents.
And while there is no Mr Darcy, the newly appointed Viscount is quite dashing.
Jane is a miss who would welcome spinsterhood if only it did not meant to spend the reminder of her life taking care of her very peculiar and mind blowing mother. She loves her but not enough to not try to murder her by the end of any day spend with her.
So when a dazzling specimen of a man literally fall to her feet, she does not know if it is to see an answer to her dilemma or just a man who fell from a tree.
Ivo only sought to rekindle his relationship with his only remaining kin, until said kin passes away on the eve of his impending marriage, leaving Ivo sole heir of his title and estate. And also prime suspect for his relative’s demise.
And while there is nothing to incriminate him, he would like to clear his name, not liking to be associated with the idea of a murderer by his new neighbors.
So when all odds are against him, Jane is one of the sole inhabitants who does not view him as guilty. Up to them to find the true culprit.
What a fun loaded with witty banters tale, Jane is full of quips and sallies and has knowledge of the people around when Ivo has a knack for investigating but is seen as a stranger.
The romance is smooth and follows its right path despite some bumps on the road, the dynamic between them is sweet and playful.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some kisses.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Regency Murder And Marriage Series #2
✒️Claudia Stone
https://m.facebook.com/ClaudiaStoneAu...
Release Date 03/10/2021
➪ https://geni.us/F82uzr
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Having come to the realisation that the life of a spinster is only glamorous when one is rich and doesn't live with one's mother, Miss Jane Mifford decides that it is hight time she finds herself a man. Fortuitously one - quite literally - lands at her feet in the shape of Mr Ivo Bonville. Handsome, charming, and rich, Mr Bonville is not the usual bachelor one finds in the Cotswolds. Unfortunately, Mr Bonville is soon accused of murdering the local viscount, Lord Crabb, in order to inherit his title. Convinced that a man as handsome - er, kind - cannot possibly be capable of murder, Jane sets out to clear Mr Bonville's name, with a little help from the man himself.
Having neither needed nor desired to become a viscount, Ivo Bonville finds himself most vexed when he is accused of murdering his host for his title. As the local constable is too bone-idle to even button up his breeches, Ivo realises that if he wants to clear his name he must do so himself. Thankfully, help is on hand from the delightful local beauty, Miss Mifford, and together she and Ivo begin their investigation.
As the pair attempt to whittle down the long list of suspects with a motive to murder Lord Crabb, Ivo finds himself falling in love with the brave and beautiful Miss Mifford? But can he prove his innocence and prove to Miss Mifford that he wants her as his bride?
This Cozy Regency Romance is the second book in the Regency Murder and Marriage series.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will his homecoming be tainted by underserved accusations...
I have the first in this series taking dust on my kindle shelves because without a deadline, I am unable to read the many books. Airing for my attention. So when I came upon this forthcoming release, impossible to pass it, even with the crazy schedule I trapped myself in.
I so loved this book, and from the first few lines, a mix of Enola Holmes and Pride and Prejudice for the heroine’s parents.
And while there is no Mr Darcy, the newly appointed Viscount is quite dashing.
Jane is a miss who would welcome spinsterhood if only it did not meant to spend the reminder of her life taking care of her very peculiar and mind blowing mother. She loves her but not enough to not try to murder her by the end of any day spend with her.
So when a dazzling specimen of a man literally fall to her feet, she does not know if it is to see an answer to her dilemma or just a man who fell from a tree.
Ivo only sought to rekindle his relationship with his only remaining kin, until said kin passes away on the eve of his impending marriage, leaving Ivo sole heir of his title and estate. And also prime suspect for his relative’s demise.
And while there is nothing to incriminate him, he would like to clear his name, not liking to be associated with the idea of a murderer by his new neighbors.
So when all odds are against him, Jane is one of the sole inhabitants who does not view him as guilty. Up to them to find the true culprit.
What a fun loaded with witty banters tale, Jane is full of quips and sallies and has knowledge of the people around when Ivo has a knack for investigating but is seen as a stranger.
The romance is smooth and follows its right path despite some bumps on the road, the dynamic between them is sweet and playful.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some kisses.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
March 11, 2021
Miss Jane Mifford has decided she must find a wealthy man to avoid the discomforts of spinsterhood. Mr Ivo Bonville seems like the perfect choice… until he is accused of murdering the local viscount, Lord Crabb, to inherit his title! Ivo had no desire or use for the viscount title. But the constable is lacking in imagination and skill, so Ivo and Jane decide to investigate on their own to clear Ivo’s name.
Sharing the effort of going through the long list of suspects that do have a motive to murder Lord Crabb gives Ivo the time to discover that he is actually falling in love with Miss Mifford. But before he can do anything about that, he must confirm his innocence and then convince Miss Mifford that he wants her to be his bride. Will he succeed? Or will the plans they both have made be for nothing?
This is a delightful follow-up book in this series. The overall attitude is actually uplifting and made the story line even more enjoyable. The characters are very likable and competent. Grab your copy and enjoy their investigation into the murder of Lord Crabb. Being able to close the mystery will allow them to move on with their own plans!
Sharing the effort of going through the long list of suspects that do have a motive to murder Lord Crabb gives Ivo the time to discover that he is actually falling in love with Miss Mifford. But before he can do anything about that, he must confirm his innocence and then convince Miss Mifford that he wants her to be his bride. Will he succeed? Or will the plans they both have made be for nothing?
This is a delightful follow-up book in this series. The overall attitude is actually uplifting and made the story line even more enjoyable. The characters are very likable and competent. Grab your copy and enjoy their investigation into the murder of Lord Crabb. Being able to close the mystery will allow them to move on with their own plans!
March 8, 2021
I had so much fun revisiting the town of Plumpton and the Mifford family for the second installment in the series! A Victim, A Viscount, and Miss Mifford sees Jane Mifford become embroiled in an investigation into the murder of the perfidious Lord Crabb. Chief suspect? Lord Crabb's heir, Ivo Bonville, who also happens to be the focus of Jane's affections.
I do hope you enjoy your return trip to the Cotswolds!
I do hope you enjoy your return trip to the Cotswolds!
April 2, 2021
Does He or Did He?
Did the long lost heir kill his great uncle for his title of viscount, and does he love Jane Mifford. Claudia Stone has written a Regency era romance, but complete with murder of the 82 year old viscount engaged to a beautiful 18 year old. Is it the heir who killed him? Almost the who village believes so, and is happy because the old man was stingy and mean. There are plenty of suspects, some mild romance, funny lines and definitely strong characters.
Did the long lost heir kill his great uncle for his title of viscount, and does he love Jane Mifford. Claudia Stone has written a Regency era romance, but complete with murder of the 82 year old viscount engaged to a beautiful 18 year old. Is it the heir who killed him? Almost the who village believes so, and is happy because the old man was stingy and mean. There are plenty of suspects, some mild romance, funny lines and definitely strong characters.
April 8, 2021
Good book
Loved this story . always great characters and wonderful suspense and sforyline. Can't wait to read the next bpok. Always so many laugh a lso.
Loved this story . always great characters and wonderful suspense and sforyline. Can't wait to read the next bpok. Always so many laugh a lso.
April 6, 2021
A “cozy”Regency mystery
In this novel, the mystery is not just an afterthought.the love story is almost secondary. The h and h are engaging characters and the dialogue witty.
In this novel, the mystery is not just an afterthought.the love story is almost secondary. The h and h are engaging characters and the dialogue witty.
October 8, 2021
fun
A fun regency romance/ who done it. Another daughter married off and Mrs. Milford remains as obnoxious as ever. If you like regency this is a good series
A fun regency romance/ who done it. Another daughter married off and Mrs. Milford remains as obnoxious as ever. If you like regency this is a good series
March 22, 2021
I loved this book, maybe more than the first, it's neck and neck. Claudia Stone knows how to weave a tale so that you are completely invested in the characters and immersed in the mystery.
March 18, 2021
Witty and charming whodunit with lots of twists and turns. Plenty of drama to keep you turning the pages. Entertaining and interesting characters tell the story. There is even some romance thrown in. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2021
Interesting story. Not as good as the first in the series but I like the family. Low in the romance department but offers a few chuckles.
March 12, 2021
This was a crazy historical mystery romance where the citizens of Plumpton think the newly arrived heir Ivo is the murderer, but they won't prosecute him because he's the new Viscount and the man he supposedly killed was a miserly miserable old man who made life more difficult for his tenants and the villagers. I wondered about the elderly Viscount Crabb's, who was aptly named, eighteen year old fiance Prunella and why other than his title and any money he might grant her she would care so much about losing him. Even though he won't be prosecuted, Ivo can't stand to be thought of as a murderer plus he wants the real culprit to be found. He's been attracted to Jane Mifford since they met and he enlists her help in solving the mystery. Her mother is quite over the top pushy and obnoxious in her quest to marry her daughters off. The townspeople are funny with their meddling ways.
March 18, 2021
Fantastic murder mystery with a good helping of romance as the catalyst for the investigation. Vibrant characters throughout. Can’t wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2021
It was slow
I loved her first mystery novel in this series. It had more twists and turns in it. This story was a little too simple. I am however looking forward to the next one on the series with Emily.
I loved her first mystery novel in this series. It had more twists and turns in it. This story was a little too simple. I am however looking forward to the next one on the series with Emily.
March 17, 2021
A fun read
This is a lightweight, easy to read story. It is very enjoyable and fun,just right in these difficult times to brighten the day. I am looking forward to the next one.
This is a lightweight, easy to read story. It is very enjoyable and fun,just right in these difficult times to brighten the day. I am looking forward to the next one.
March 11, 2021
She is unmarried and still living with her mother so she decides to find a man to marry. She thinks he would be the one until he is accused of murder to gain a title. He did not want a title so he needs to prove he is innocent and he gets help from her. Can they prove his innocence? Will they fall for each other? See how they get on
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2021
jolly good fun!
It’s not often you sit with a smile on your face as you read, but thus second book in the serious had me doing just that. Highly entertaining, I am keen for more in the series.
Highly recommended.
It’s not often you sit with a smile on your face as you read, but thus second book in the serious had me doing just that. Highly entertaining, I am keen for more in the series.
Highly recommended.
September 13, 2021
Very much the same storyline as the previous book but no less funny, romantic, or mysterious!
I really loved Ivo, and like the previous book it had me guessing who the murderer was from the beginning - I knew it wouldn’t be obvious but it was fun not knowing until the conclusion!
I’m looking forward to reading about Emily whenever her book comes out!
I really loved Ivo, and like the previous book it had me guessing who the murderer was from the beginning - I knew it wouldn’t be obvious but it was fun not knowing until the conclusion!
I’m looking forward to reading about Emily whenever her book comes out!
September 1, 2021
This book is slow an dull and I lost interest half way through..
August 26, 2025
3.5 stars!
This book's Miss Mifford is 2nd daughter Jane, who is allegedly the most sensible of the 4 sisters. As you probably gathered from the title, her love interest is a viscount (really coming down in the world after her sister married a duke in the previous book! But that's okay because the Mifford sisters, and especially Jane, aren't interested in prestige or money; they are interested in hot men, actual romance, and not living with their mom. Which I think is very reasonable, especially given the time period.
Here we have 4 charming daughters of a chilled-out country vicar, their minor-nobility status-seeking mom who is constantly causing them embarrassment as she tries to get them married off to the upper classes (even though she herself clearly must have married for love?), and of course, MURRRRRDEEERRR!
SUMMARY AND THOUGHTS ON THE PLOT, FOR MY MEMORY WHEN I READ THE NEXT BOOK:
I enjoy this author's fun, gently humorous writing style; I think I'll hunt down some more of her books and see if I enjoy them as much as these.
This book's Miss Mifford is 2nd daughter Jane, who is allegedly the most sensible of the 4 sisters. As you probably gathered from the title, her love interest is a viscount (really coming down in the world after her sister married a duke in the previous book! But that's okay because the Mifford sisters, and especially Jane, aren't interested in prestige or money; they are interested in hot men, actual romance, and not living with their mom. Which I think is very reasonable, especially given the time period.
Here we have 4 charming daughters of a chilled-out country vicar, their minor-nobility status-seeking mom who is constantly causing them embarrassment as she tries to get them married off to the upper classes (even though she herself clearly must have married for love?), and of course, MURRRRRDEEERRR!
SUMMARY AND THOUGHTS ON THE PLOT, FOR MY MEMORY WHEN I READ THE NEXT BOOK:
I enjoy this author's fun, gently humorous writing style; I think I'll hunt down some more of her books and see if I enjoy them as much as these.
January 2, 2022
I enjoyed this book, although not as much as the first and third of the Miss Mifford series.
This book was quick and pleasant to read. However, there were more grammar errors especially in the use of pronouns, spelling errors which indicated that wrong homonyms chosen, and confusion in employing antonyms. I think a human editor should be employed by the author, preferably one familiar with the regency period to avoid anachronisms. I had read similar comments about the third book of the series, but I did not find it as bothersome as this one. This was especially true of the last 20% of the book.
The author's murderers are easy to work out before the end of the book. But the murderer in this one was apparent from the beginning. Mrs. Mifford is tone-deaf to the extent that even Austen's Mrs. Bennett would find her comments cringe-worthy.
I would still recommend the series as her writing is crisp and entertaining. She doesn't go over and over the same ground as many Regency authors do. I like the lack of tortuous self-reflective inner dialogue so common in the genre. It is a light, quick and enjoyable read.
This book was quick and pleasant to read. However, there were more grammar errors especially in the use of pronouns, spelling errors which indicated that wrong homonyms chosen, and confusion in employing antonyms. I think a human editor should be employed by the author, preferably one familiar with the regency period to avoid anachronisms. I had read similar comments about the third book of the series, but I did not find it as bothersome as this one. This was especially true of the last 20% of the book.
The author's murderers are easy to work out before the end of the book. But the murderer in this one was apparent from the beginning. Mrs. Mifford is tone-deaf to the extent that even Austen's Mrs. Bennett would find her comments cringe-worthy.
I would still recommend the series as her writing is crisp and entertaining. She doesn't go over and over the same ground as many Regency authors do. I like the lack of tortuous self-reflective inner dialogue so common in the genre. It is a light, quick and enjoyable read.
September 9, 2025
Disappointing
The storyline is a common one: a murder mystery. The plot is somewhat interesting with a few unexpected twists and turns.
The characters are well developed; one feels connected to the characters and able to empathize with them.
There were a great many expressions which are inappropriate for the regency period, too many to overlook.
At one point, the main female character thinks “…. one launches missiles, and not females.” Good heavens, I didn’t realize missiles existed in the 19th century. Fancy that! Also, I’m pretty sure the expression “alright” was not in use during this time period. There were innumerable typos as well. It’s obvious there was little to no editing done on this book.
It reads like a very rushed affair … dialogue is uninspired and bland. There is not much subtlety in the characters’ dealings with each other, mostly clichés and platitudes.
I can’t help but compare this uninspired story to those of other writers such as Lynn Messina and Mary Kingswood and other excellent writers.
The storyline is a common one: a murder mystery. The plot is somewhat interesting with a few unexpected twists and turns.
The characters are well developed; one feels connected to the characters and able to empathize with them.
There were a great many expressions which are inappropriate for the regency period, too many to overlook.
At one point, the main female character thinks “…. one launches missiles, and not females.” Good heavens, I didn’t realize missiles existed in the 19th century. Fancy that! Also, I’m pretty sure the expression “alright” was not in use during this time period. There were innumerable typos as well. It’s obvious there was little to no editing done on this book.
It reads like a very rushed affair … dialogue is uninspired and bland. There is not much subtlety in the characters’ dealings with each other, mostly clichés and platitudes.
I can’t help but compare this uninspired story to those of other writers such as Lynn Messina and Mary Kingswood and other excellent writers.
August 25, 2023
Jane Mifford is keen to follow in her older sister's footsteps and get married in order to escape from her mother's meddling so when she has a chance encounter with Ivo Bonville while out walking she feels an instant connection with him.
Ivo Bonville was surprised to receive an invitation to octogenarian Lord Crabb's wedding to young Miss Prunella Hughes after all he would become the next Viscount unless Lord Crabb and Miss Hughes failed to produce an heir. Naturally when Lord Crabb is found dead Ivo the villagers of Plumpton believe that Ivo killed him so that he could inherit the title however Miss Mifford is not convinced and sets out to discover who killed the old Lord Crabb and clear the new Lord Crabb's name.
Together, Miss Mifford and Lord Crabb uncover a web of secrets inspired by love and passion while navigating their feelings for one another.
While I enjoyed Miss Mifford's story, I found it to be less gripping than the first book in the series.
Ivo Bonville was surprised to receive an invitation to octogenarian Lord Crabb's wedding to young Miss Prunella Hughes after all he would become the next Viscount unless Lord Crabb and Miss Hughes failed to produce an heir. Naturally when Lord Crabb is found dead Ivo the villagers of Plumpton believe that Ivo killed him so that he could inherit the title however Miss Mifford is not convinced and sets out to discover who killed the old Lord Crabb and clear the new Lord Crabb's name.
Together, Miss Mifford and Lord Crabb uncover a web of secrets inspired by love and passion while navigating their feelings for one another.
While I enjoyed Miss Mifford's story, I found it to be less gripping than the first book in the series.
August 2, 2023
This is another charming tale from the hand of Claudia Stone. Added to her usual story of Regency love, Ms. Stone has added the element of mystery to the mix. It is all light-hearted and fun, especially Mr. Mifford's efforts to keep Mrs. Mifford out of their daughter's love life. We all know a Mrs. Mifford, and so her shenanigans ring true.
Jane wanted to be a bluestocking until she realized she would spend the rest of her life with her mother (indeed a fate worse than death). Mr. Mifford is a scream when he realizes that another daughter will marry, narrowing the buffer between himself and the Mrs. He congratulates himself that his family line tends to die young. I couldn't stop laughing.
Regency Murder and Marriage – Total of 3
1. A Death, A Duke, And Miss Mifford (2020)
** 2. A Victim, A Viscount, And Miss Mifford(2021)
3. A Murder, A Marquess, And Miss Mifford(2021)
Jane wanted to be a bluestocking until she realized she would spend the rest of her life with her mother (indeed a fate worse than death). Mr. Mifford is a scream when he realizes that another daughter will marry, narrowing the buffer between himself and the Mrs. He congratulates himself that his family line tends to die young. I couldn't stop laughing.
Regency Murder and Marriage – Total of 3
1. A Death, A Duke, And Miss Mifford (2020)
** 2. A Victim, A Viscount, And Miss Mifford(2021)
3. A Murder, A Marquess, And Miss Mifford(2021)
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February 8, 2022This is the second Miss Mifford book, and because Mary had a happily ever after in book one, the heroine is a different Miss Mifford! This is Jane's story, and I actually liked her more than Mary because she is full of common sense and sees the world as it is. There are a couple of victims in the story. Although the most obvious one is the deceased former viscount, I feel that the fiancée who is marrying an old man for all the wrong reasons is probably a victim too. Anyway, it made me giggle and took absolutely no effort to read, so an all-round win.
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