The Crystal Crypt

Poppy Denby Investigates #6

by Fiona Veitch Smith

The 1920s most stylish sleuth returns this autumn in THE CRYSTAL CRYPT for another thrilling murder mystery!

In the city of dreaming spires, Poppy Denby is asked to investigate the mysterious death of an up-and-coming female scientist. But was it an accident or is something more sinister lurking in the shadows? And is Poppy the next target...

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook, Cozy Mystery, Historical, Historical Mystery

336 pages, Paperback

Published November 19, 2021

Reviews

[Stace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com

I have loved the Poppy Denby Investigates series since the first book, The Jazz Files, which I reviewed back in 2015. The series is set in 1920s London and began in 1920 with Poppy being new to the city and her first job as a journalist working for The Globe newspaper, taking over the cases of a newly deceased journalist, Bert Isaac.

We are now in 1925 and the fiancée of the deceased journalist, Sophie Blackburn, has asked Poppy to look into a suspicious death at an Oxford laboratory known as the Crystal Crypt. She believes that the death of her colleague wasn’t an accident and that she was murdered.

Poppy’s boss Rollo wants her to tread carefully as Sophie has recently spent some time in a mental institution. Where will Poppy’s investigation take her, towards a murder verdict, or is Sophie needing more mental health help?

What a fascinating book The Crystal Crypt is. There is so much going on within the pages that it feels like you never really come up for air once you begin. I loved the historical figures and a nod to the amazing women who were pioneers in their fields.

As always Poppy is fearless and determined to uncover the truth, whether that be a murder verdict or accidental death as has been reported. These books will make you feel like you have taken a step back in time and as always contain a tremendous plot that has many secondary off-shoots and a whole cast of fictional and real characters from the period.

I loved the setting of Oxford and I think this has to be up there as one of my Poppy Denby favourites. If you love historical mysteries then this really is the series to read.

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Crystal Crypt is the sixth book in the Poppy Denby Investigates series. While it is a standalone mystery, many of the characters have been introduced in previous novels, and a couple of the minor plot points do refer back to hose earlier stories. However, there is a character list at the beginning of the novel for those who haven’t read all the previous stories (or who have read dozens of novels since the last Poppy Denby novel was released and needed a little reminder, ahem).

As with the previous Poppy Denby mysteries, The Crystal Crypt sets a solid mystery against a backdrop that gives insight into the culture and attitudes of the 1920s. Poppy, a female journalist, is herself a trendsetter of sorts, and in this novel she meets a female police constable while investigating the murder of a female scientist at Oxford University. Poppy therefore shows us what was considered ground-breaking science at the time, as well as showing us a woman’s place in society.

The novel is written in a somewhat distant point of view, almost omniscient. This usually frustrates me as a reader, but it works in this instance because it feels appropriate for the time setting. It gives the novel an Agatha Christie or Georgette Heyer feel, harking back to a time when bright young things were jolly and gay. Well, except for when they’re getting murdered in the workplace …

Yes, The Crystal Crypt is a murder mystery. Poppy is asked to investigate by an acquaintance who worked with the victim, Dr June Leighton, and who believes June’s death was not the accident the police claim. Poppy uses her press credentials to find out more about June’s life and death, to determine whether there was a murder … and if so, who is the culprit.

Some murder mysteries have lots of potential evildoers with means, motive, and opportunity. The Crystal Crypt has less than most, so the focus is on the investigation, and it soon becomes obvious that someone has something to hide.

I enjoyed The Crystal Crypt, as I’ve enjoyed the other novels I’ve read in the series (the ones I haven’t read are waiting on my Kindle. This is a series that can definitely be read out of order). I especially enjoyed the insights into Twenties culture, and learning a little more about the long struggle for gender quality. Recommended for mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy unique historical settings.

Thanks to Lion Fiction and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Karren Hodgkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another in the series and a well-written murder mystery. I have read some of the others in the Poppy series Denby and thoroughly enjoyed them. This has an intriguing plot with many twists and turns and while I did not manage to guess whodunnit (there are a fair number of red herrings), it was rewarding to have worked out many of the key aspects.

I love her boss, Rollo, he's just the most delightful and well-rounded character. With every episode, I enjoy him more and hope he features more strongly going forward. Sadly, I don't find Poppy's romantic interest quite so appealing. Daniel just doesn't do it for me. Both Rollo and Poppy feel the need to keep him out of the loop during the investigation... hmmm!

The author includes historical details about birth control and the prejudice around people of colour. Whilst they may make those of us who are a little more sensitive cringe a little, they were tastefully dealt with and added context and depth to the overall story.

With thanks to the publisher Lion Hudson Ltd, #Netgalley and the author for my free advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Karen Johnston · Rating 3 out of 5]

'The Crystal Crypt' is the 6th book in the Poppy Denby detective series, a young geordie woman in the #1920s who works as an investigative journalist looking into suspicious deaths. What I like about this series is that you don't have to read the first book to know what is going on although, the latest book follows on quite nicely from 'The Art Fiasco' with reference to some of the same characters.
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Like 'The Art Fiasco', 'The Crystal Crypt' is slightly predictable and convenient. Poppy Denby and her friend Delila journey to London for an academic lecture on xrays whilst meeting Sophie Blackburn (see previous book) who, conveniently,needed to speak with Poppy.
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Poppy learns of the death of June, a promising young scientist. Poppy is asked to investigate June's death by Sophie as it is believed there is more to it than the final verdict. Poppy investigates on the ruse that she is writing about interesting and successful women for her newspaper column. Much like 'The Art Fiasco', 'The Crystal Crypt' is set in a time of male superiority and the idea of the Me Too movement before its time. The male characters in this book are really quite unpleasant at times and easily shows the divide between men and women. The style of the writing is very dramatic at times, Poppy has no tact and seems to frequently reveal too much information (which makes me question the validity of this character).
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There are some very disturbing scenes in 'The Crystal Crypt', one I hadn't realised would feature so heavily. Women are brutally murdered or attacked in this book.
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I find some of the content unbelievable at times, specifically the detail WPC divulged to Poppy about the case with June. The murderer was an unexpected twist with lots of build up and different strands. An intriguing read if you like a #whodunnit.
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#thecrystalcrypt #fionaveitchsmith #theartfiasco #poppydenby #detective #murdermystery #mystery #oxford

[Breny and Books]

Maybe it is because I haven't read the previous books in the series, but I honeslty didn't feel any conection or empathy towards the charcaters :( Everything was super fast paced and there were a LOT of names to keep track of. They mystety in itself didn't draw me from the beginning so I decided to sadly dnf.
But, if you like cozy miysteries, I feel this could maybe be your cup of tea. I would suggest reading the previous books though, I felt I missed a lot of backstory.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

1925 England and a promising young female scientist appears to have died in an accident involving electricity. Or was it an accident? A friend of Poppy's asks her to look into it. Once her boss at the newspaper agrees the sleuthing begins! A very good historical read.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Lion Hudson Ltd/Lion Fiction via NetGalley. Thank you

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book by this author and sadly I found it a bit slow for my tastes. There was too much description of places and found that I was skipping too much to really enjoy this. I received this as an ARC from Netgalley and freely give my review.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another entertaining audiobook in this series. Lots of characters and lots of action.

[S.C. Skillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic sixth addition to the Poppy Denby series. This time investigative reporter Poppy – as persistent and discerning as ever – penetrates into the suspicious death of a brilliant woman X-ray crystallographer. Poppy plunges into the world of science in Oxford, and also into the heart of the kind of misogyny which will make present-day readers seethe (a misogyny which is still present in today’s society – but much more marginalised, and more strongly challenged).

Poppy finds herself in the basement crystallography laboratory dubbed ‘The Crystal Crypt’ housed opposite Backwell’s Bookshop. I know Oxford quite well and I loved all the detail of the places there, many of them familiar to me. The author did invent the hotel Poppy stays at, The Cherwell Hotel, so if anyone hunts for a room there as an alternative to The Randolph, they’ll be disappointed!

All the beloved characters are here – the colourful newspaperman Rollo with his special connections into all levels of nefarious society; Melvyn Dorchester, the devious and currently imprisoned aristocrat, ready to strike a deal with the cunning and ingenious Rollo; Delilah Marconi, Poppy’s friend – sadly only a brief appearance this time – and Daniel Rokeby, who seems at long last to be on the right track with Poppy! I also love Ike and Ivan two loyal and resourceful staff members at The Globe.

In this novel, the author gets right to the heart of chauvinism and bigotry in the prestigious academic world of the 1920s. Poppy uncovers a conspiracy by jealous males to eliminate a brilliant woman; and the evidence for this activity is overwhelming, within recorded history.

As ever, Poppy encounters personal danger, and does not flinch from putting her life at risk in the pursuit of truth. She is an exceptional character and I highly recommend this historical crime series to all fiction readers.

[Gemma The BookCosy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cosy mystery set in the 1920s was a delightful read. I loved how it featured strong female characters who fought their way for equality in a white, dominated male world. Their feisty and determined personalities added to the storyline and as a female living in today's age it made me truly appreciate the horrors and constrictions that women, or persons of colour had to face in the 1920's. It's also very sad to think that ten decades later we are still living with prejudice in our society and still fighting for equality.

The Crystal Crypt was a well-written murder mystery and although book 6 in the Poppy Denby Investigates series, it can definitely be read as a standalone novel. The characters were well rounded, three-dimensional and quirky which I loved. The historical setting was a pure joy to read and I loved the rich description of Oxford. The map at the front of the book added further to the detailed description and I enjoyed 'walking' around the city following Poppy on her investigation. I was thrilled to learn that The White Horse is still a landmark in Oxford today as to is Blackwell's Bookshop. It is these added details that make the book stand out.

There were a few red herrings in the novel with the addition of lots of twists and turns. I thought I had figured it out to then be totally thrown off guard again. As this was an easy read I wasn't quite anticipating the complexity of the plot or the depth of characters that really made this a unpredictable read. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Crystal Crypt by Fiona Veitch Smith is another stunning story featuring Poppy Denby, ace reporter and amateur detective extraordinaire. She surrounds herself with other newspaper people that are interesting and talented. This includes her boyfriend, Daniel Rokeby, a photojournalist. Sophie, who was indeed odd, but had been the fiancée of a co-worker, had come to Poppy to ask for help. A young woman in the lab she worked in had died, mysteriously. The police had written it off as misadventure, but she thought is was murder. Could Poppy help? Sophie's fiancé had died in what appeared to be an accident, but all of them felt it had been something more and were guilty that they had not followed up. Is this what Sophie was doing now? Trying to make up for it?

Poppy is a good investigator with fabulous instincts. This was a complicated murder and she had to use all her skills to work it out. People were getting hurt, so that was a good sign that something was going on and she was getting close. There are interesting, ongoing subplots in this book including racial prejudice and the prejudice against little people, not matter how talented. There is also prejudice against Poppy, who often uses her "nosey female" reputation to its best advantage. This is such a great series: interesting and different. It is not to be missed. I recommend it: a terrific historical mystery.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Crystal Crypt by Lion Fiction, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #lionhudson #fionaveitchsmith #thecrystalcrypt

[Jenny Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed the three books I've read in this series. Poppy Denby is an engaging character as both journalist and detective, and I like the way the author has developed all her characters and referenced the other books as well. Although this one could well stand alone, the context of previous adventures is helpful.

This time Poppy is sent by her editor to write a piece for her column on inspiring women in the workplace. Her subject has just died in what appears to be a tragic accident involving a surge of electricity in a research laboratory, but it soon becomes clear that all is not as it seems. Professional jealousies, misogyny, a secret fiancé and multiple rumours point to something darker. Before long Poppy discovers that the career path for a female scientist is far from smooth, as is her investigation.

There's a fantastic sense of place in each book – this one is set firmly in Oxford – and the 1920s feel comes through loud and clear in speech, mannerisms, clothing and ambience. I'm looking forward to reading the books I've missed and am aware that Fiona Veitch Smith has a new series as well. Recommended.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This felt a lot like reading a Nancy Drew written for adults - for one thing, getting hit over the head just as you're getting somewhere in the investigation is a common plot device. It's so nostalgic.

This book does cover more serious issues, and it has a more diverse and three- dimensional cast of characters. Every loose end is tied up neatly in the last few pages. It's a relatively light, easy read.

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

London journalist, and amateur sleuth, Poppy Denby is intrigued when she hears of the demise of an exceptionally talented female scientist. That the death occurred in Oxford and not in London presents something of a problem for Poppy but when her editor, Rollo Rolandson, agrees to fund an overnight stay at the Cherwell Hotel in Oxford, Poppy is determined to discover the secrets which surround Dr June Leighton's mysterious death.

Poppy's investigation leads her into the chauvinistic world of male scientists who seem to tolerate women on a superficial level but who really consider their female colleagues less than equal to the task of scientific advancement. I thought this part of the novel was exceptionally well done, the burgeoning world of crystallography and the tentative steps which were being made in scientific discovery is explained in an easy to understand way and doesn't detract from Poppy's convoluted investigation into Dr Leighton's death.

I've become rather fond of Poppy Denby and with each successive novel this cosy crime series just seems to get better and better. Poppy is, as ever, caught up right in the centre of the excitement, and as she goes about her investigation, she discovers something rather unsavoury about the work of the scientists who work in the Crystal Crypt. There were the usual fascinating tumble of twists and turns with Poppy forever having to keep one step ahead of the action, which is rather daring for this amateur sleuth who has the knack of getting right to the heart of the problem, but not without ruffling several inflated male egos along the way.

This talented writer brings the world of the 1920's to life in a very believable way and whilst there is a distinct feeling that things are beginning to change for women, alas it's not quickly enough, for although women are able to get their degrees, they are still very much under the supervision of men and not considered equal either by gender or ability.

Beautifully written, with both a sense of fun, and pathos, the glorious city of Oxford comes to life and thanks to the cleverly designed map, I was able to, quite literally, follow in Poppy's footsteps as she moves through the city on her hired bicycle. I enjoyed spending time with her at the Cherwell Hotel along with all the other destinations which help bring the city into clear focus.

The Crystal Crypt is a fast moving cosy crime mystery which has all the trademarks we have come to expect from this wonderful series. Poppy Denby is, by far, my favourite amateur sleuth, and I look forward to meeting her again soon.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crystal Crypt by Fiona Veitch Smith is a marvellous historical amateur sleuthing novel. It is the sixth book in the Poppy Denby Investigates series but can be read as a stand-alone. For me, I enjoyed catching up with familiar faces as Poppy Denby once more finds herself investigating a murder.
The novel is set in 1925 when the role of women was decidedly below that of men. Women were seen as second-class citizens, good for making the tea and looking pretty. Within the book there are strong women who are breaking out of this role. The reader meets not only Poppy as a reporter but a WPC and some female academics at Oxford. All are breaking the traditional mold of women.
As well as the women, the reader witnesses the attitudes towards disability and men of colour which horrifies the modern reader. One of my favourite scenes was of Poppy Denby forcefully acquiring a hotel room for her male colleague Ike.
The novel is mainly set within the academia of Oxford. It is very much a closed world that discourages the outsider.
Fiona Veitch Smith has marvellous descriptions of Oxford enabling the reader to ‘walk’ through the action. I particularly loved the inclusion of Blackwells as I have been there on several occasions. It is a fascinating place. I recommend a trip.
Poppy Denby reminds me of a younger version of Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple. Her amateur sleuthing is superb, like a dog with a bone, she tenaciously hangs on until the case is concluded. She is a very likable heroine.
I am thoroughly enjoying all the Poppy Denby books. I think they would translate marvellously into a Netflix series – any producers out there please take note. I am hoping there will be many more books to come.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Paul Trembling · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the challenges facing any writer of fiction is how to handle the dialogue.

Take, for example, the conversation that takes place between the main character - female reporter and sleuth Poppy Denby - and one of the key players in the story, Professor Sinclair. It's their first meeting, and takes place quite early on in the investigation of the apparently accidental death of a female scientist that Poppy is looking into.

There's a lot that needs to be included in this conversation. For one thing, the reader needs to get a good idea of what sort of person Sinclair was - and his relationship with the dead woman. They also need a certain amount of information that's important for developing the plot. If Poppy doesn't hear the right things at this stage, she might take her investigation off in the wrong direction.

But it can't be just an information dump either. It has to feel like a real, natural conversation. Otherwise the whole flow of the story is broken, and if there's too much of that a reader will get bored and give up on the book entirely.

So there are a lot of conflicting demands on the writer when they are constructing a piece of dialogue. Doing it properly is a piece of craftmanship, and very often you can judge the quality of the entire story by sections of dialogue such as this one.

Fiona Veitch Smith gets it exactly right, and shows the same level of expertise throughout the book. The result is a well paced, intriguing mystery, in which Poppy doggedly follows the convoluted trail of clues to find the truth. Along the way, we get some real insight into life in the 1920s, especially in the University town of Oxford, where most of the story is set. An excellent addition to the Poppy Denby series, which also takes Poppy's personal story on a bit further.

[Floyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crystal Crypt is an historical novel taking place in the years following the end of WWI in London and Oxford. The story is intriguing and twisting; it will hold most reader’s interest for several hours.

Though this is the sixth book in the series, it is the first that I have read. The focus of the book is the death of a young female scientist in Oxford, but the solution of that murder leads to the conclusion of another that occurred several years earlier. Poppy Denby is an entertainment reporter with a knack for tripping over murders. Her tabloid’s editor is willing to give her free reign as she follows the clues; he also made his own contributions to the case along with the tabloid’s lead reporter.

My only concern was that much of the last two chapters were summaries of the crime, rather than the protagonist and her crew of supporting actors actually discovering the clues and putting them together. The story also introduced the reader to WPC (Woman’s Police Constable) Rosie Winter. Only a supporting character in this book, it would seem that she could easily star in her own set of stories as she follows her dream of becoming a detective in her own right.

I give the book four-and-one-half-stars. It was a very enjoyable read.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in 1920s England, this charming mystery is about Poppy Denby, intrepid tabloid newspaper journalist and amateur sleuth who investigates the death of a female scientist. Her boss, Rollo, is a very likeable character who is one of the few men of the time who sees the value and contribution of female professionals. Thankfully, Poppy's fiance is on the same page. Not only is there murder but also mayhem in spades for us crime-thirsty readers! The importance of crystals and diamonds in laboratory work and the inclusion of autistic symptoms in one of the characters are brilliant additions.

The historical bits are fascinating as are the author's notes and information on her inspiration for this particular book. Nice and personal. The character list is also a nice touch.

Historical Fiction and General Fiction readers, do get lost in this light escapist book. It is not particularly suspenseful but an enjoyable read nonetheless.

My sincere thank you to Lion Hudson Ltd. and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this enchanting book!

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

So I actually got to half way and then gave up so I didn't finish the book in the end. This wasn't a book I was totally captivated by, most likely because I read straight after I read the Da Vinci Code. And since I didn't read the first book prior, I felt like I didn't really know the characters well enough or the relationship between the characters but nonetheless, I was able to catch on the basic personalities and relationship that the book provided me. And also, it kinda bases some of it's storyline with the previous book so that could also be why I didn't really understand or enjoy this book as much.

I feel like this book is a very easy to read, cosy mystery novel to be read on a warm sunny afternoon outside so don't expect it to be a page turner or somesort. TBH I don't even know what rating I should give this book since I didn't read all of it. Maybe if I had finished it, I would give a more honest and upfront review. Oh well.

[Amy (Amy_justonemorechapter) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t realise this book was within a series of books. The author has a great way of re-capping who the characters are and any previous connections they have, however, initially I found it really tricky to remember who everyone is. So if you’re interested in this series, maybe read from book 1. The book was full of detail about Oxford, although I’ve never visited I feel like I know it well now. The investigation was so thorough, I enjoyed reading about how the character were finding information in both Oxford and London. I was on the edge of my seat especially towards the end, and when I found out who did it and how I was absolutely gobsmacked.

[marita lazarus · Rating 4 out of 5]

intriguing mystery and wonderful historical cozie.

I'm so sad this series was cancelled by the artist's previous publisher. I'm hoping her new publishing house will take a more vested interest in continuing, at least a 3 book deal, to finish wrapping up this delightful series.

As mysteries go, this book ties in with the mystery from book 1 and continues to explore issues still plaguing women, years later, including biases in higher learning, the workplace, universities, and the general populace.

Poppy and Rollo are such a dynamic duo, and I love how they are able to bring justice.

[Naomi's Novels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredible series! Sad to see it end (has it ended?). The way Fiona weaves her mysteries with historical events is superb and the characters become like good friends. So grateful to have read these six books, Poppy will be hard to measure up to for sure. I'd like to note my favourite in the series was the penultimate book The Art Fiasco.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's the second book I read in this series and I'm loving these mysteries as they are well written and compelling.
Poppy is an interesting and fleshed out characters, the historical background is well researched and vivid, the mystery is solid and kept me guessing.
Can't wait to read the next story in this series.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Ileana Renfroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful historical mystery, The Crystal Crypt is one book you will thoroughly enjoy reading.

Well throughout-out plot and well-written characters make this a fun read as we get to know Poppy Denby. Her investigation in the mysterious death of the up-and-coming female scientist has put her in a pickle where she may be the next victim.

I loved reading this story and can't wait to read more by this author in the future.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poppy Denby is not sure whether there is actually a story in the death of June Leighton, a researcher at Oxford University’s Summerville College. But it gives the author a chance to take readers to a setting familiar to both Dorothy L. Sayers and (fictionally) Harriet Vane. Back in London, Poppy’s editor Rolly Rolandson gets to play a large role in the investigation, making for a satisfyingly intricate plot.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve just binged all 6 Poppy Denby books in a little over a week and am hugely disappointed that for the time being, that’s it.

This book is a delightful light read. The characters are charming, there’s just enough mystery to keep you guessing, but easy to solve. I love an audiobook, and the narrator is wonderful & part of the reason I kept listening.

Really hoping there’s more to Poppy’s story!

[Stephanie]

DNF: I barely started because the idea of marrying Daniel, a fairly incompatible young man deemed Poppy’s “love of her life” and literally the first man she runs into when she gets to London in “The Jazz Files,” was immediately introduced. I couldn’t stand another book in which she moons, they fight, etc.
Another reviewer mentioned that the Poppy Denby Investigates series is like the adult version of “Nancy Drew.” This is an accurate depiction!

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not realize this was part of a series when I started reading it, but I was still able to follow along. The author does reference events from past books, so you might want to start from the beginning of the series for that reason. It was interesting to see a book that focused on a female scientist and the sexism and struggles that went with it as part of the mystery.

[Andréa]

Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Elaine Dickinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read.

Plenty of characters to keep the reader guessing.
A fast paced story with plenty of twists and turns. A very enjoyable read.