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A Smith Investigates Mystery #1
Something Wicked
Smith is a man who knows when to say no. He avoids the cases where he'll never get paid. The cases for which no resolution is possible. And, most of all, the heart-rending cases. The ones that start with the tear-filled eyes of a mother, a sister, or a friend. The ones that haunt a man. The ones that push him to his limits. He says no before he gets pulled in, and he doesn't look back.
His wife, Beatrice, however, does not. And thus begins the adventure that will push their love to the limits and cause them to risk everything that matters. And this time, they don't have their friends to help them along the way.
His wife, Beatrice, however, does not. And thus begins the adventure that will push their love to the limits and cause them to risk everything that matters. And this time, they don't have their friends to help them along the way.
143 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2021
324 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 16, 2021
Somewhat confusing
I couldn't get past the fact that a sister, knowing her 13 year old sister had been taken as an older man's mistress, didn't go to the police. The age of consent in the UK is 16 and has been from 1875, so even in the 20's such behaviour was illegal and not condoned in any level of society.
I also wish she'd use English terms of she is setting her stories in England. It's a terraced house not a row house, a square not a block and it's mum not mom. It just grates.
I couldn't get past the fact that a sister, knowing her 13 year old sister had been taken as an older man's mistress, didn't go to the police. The age of consent in the UK is 16 and has been from 1875, so even in the 20's such behaviour was illegal and not condoned in any level of society.
I also wish she'd use English terms of she is setting her stories in England. It's a terraced house not a row house, a square not a block and it's mum not mom. It just grates.
December 27, 2021
Good beginning to the series. Has me hooked.
October 28, 2021
This is the first book I have read by Ms Byers. She is a very talented author. And I am a big fan of mysteries from the early part of the twentieth century.
This story is not for everyone.
The characters are interesting and the plot moves at a good pace. There are no red herrings thrown into the mix. So, following the mystery is relatively easy.
Bea and Smith are a couple of people who are private investigators. Smith is the practical one and the one who sees things very realistically. Bea sees things and wants to make them better.
That does not always work out well.
I finished the book. I admire Ms Byer’s talent.
But, I will need to step back before I read another story she has created.
This one has rape of a child among other things. There were so many things which were simply too dark for me to handle.
I know, I know, it is just me being a wimp.
I admit it. The writing is very well done. I am a fan of character driven stories, and this is on the money as a character driven story.
But, for me, no matter how well written this is, I can not say this is a book for everyone.
This story is not for everyone.
The characters are interesting and the plot moves at a good pace. There are no red herrings thrown into the mix. So, following the mystery is relatively easy.
Bea and Smith are a couple of people who are private investigators. Smith is the practical one and the one who sees things very realistically. Bea sees things and wants to make them better.
That does not always work out well.
I finished the book. I admire Ms Byer’s talent.
But, I will need to step back before I read another story she has created.
This one has rape of a child among other things. There were so many things which were simply too dark for me to handle.
I know, I know, it is just me being a wimp.
I admit it. The writing is very well done. I am a fan of character driven stories, and this is on the money as a character driven story.
But, for me, no matter how well written this is, I can not say this is a book for everyone.
April 17, 2023
This book was great! It would be hard to read this series without reading at least some of the Violet Carlyle series, but this book was vastly superior. I recommend reading the Violet books first, and noting where to start reading the Smith books. They are set chronologically so that you read them interspersed. The Smith stories start at about book 30 of the Violet books and you read one in between each of the Violet books.
These books are first person from Beatrice's perspective.
These books are first person from Beatrice's perspective.
October 13, 2021
He's Baaacckkk!
The devil in an angels' disguise is back investigating in his unorthodox style. I have really missed Smith. He along with his now wife Bea can certainly carry a mystery series on there own. If you haven't read the previous Vi Carlyle you can still enjoy this one. However I strongly suggest you acquaint yourself with the previous books as it will only increase your enjoyment. The story was very compelling, child sexual exploitation, and well told. Interesting to see how Bea is coping in her new position as the manager of Vi's numerous companies, charities and investments. We also get a different and more in depth view of a previously underused character (Lila). She was funny, smart and wicked. As to Smith himself the author did him justice by not toning down his well known devil personality. It would have been not only unfortunate but also unbelievable if marriage had suddenly made him docile. There is so much here I can't go into it all. I will say if your a fan of these mysteries or Smith himself I urge you to read this book!!! You're Welcome.
The devil in an angels' disguise is back investigating in his unorthodox style. I have really missed Smith. He along with his now wife Bea can certainly carry a mystery series on there own. If you haven't read the previous Vi Carlyle you can still enjoy this one. However I strongly suggest you acquaint yourself with the previous books as it will only increase your enjoyment. The story was very compelling, child sexual exploitation, and well told. Interesting to see how Bea is coping in her new position as the manager of Vi's numerous companies, charities and investments. We also get a different and more in depth view of a previously underused character (Lila). She was funny, smart and wicked. As to Smith himself the author did him justice by not toning down his well known devil personality. It would have been not only unfortunate but also unbelievable if marriage had suddenly made him docile. There is so much here I can't go into it all. I will say if your a fan of these mysteries or Smith himself I urge you to read this book!!! You're Welcome.
September 30, 2021
Someone Gets a Baby Girl! But who?
Private Detective Smith and his lovely wife, Beatrice, set out to find a young girl nobody wanted, nobody protected. Her parents dead, failed by her older sister, the young girl turns to another person who cruelly uses her then abandons her. Can Mr. and Mrs. Smith find the girl, Dottie, before London's mean streets claim another victim?
This is the first of a new spin-off series by the author of the Violet Carlyle mysteries, Beth Byers. Cameo appearances by well-loved characters from those cozy tales enliven this fast paced romp. Fasten your seat-belts! It's going to be memorable riding with Smith and Beatrice as their story unfolds.
Diane O'Neal, Little Rock
Private Detective Smith and his lovely wife, Beatrice, set out to find a young girl nobody wanted, nobody protected. Her parents dead, failed by her older sister, the young girl turns to another person who cruelly uses her then abandons her. Can Mr. and Mrs. Smith find the girl, Dottie, before London's mean streets claim another victim?
This is the first of a new spin-off series by the author of the Violet Carlyle mysteries, Beth Byers. Cameo appearances by well-loved characters from those cozy tales enliven this fast paced romp. Fasten your seat-belts! It's going to be memorable riding with Smith and Beatrice as their story unfolds.
Diane O'Neal, Little Rock
October 24, 2021
Wonderful Adventure for Beatrice and Smith with a vomiting Lei!a in tow
I am a big fan of this author's Lady Vi series, and this spinoff with Beatrice and Smith is a worthy addition. I admit to being in tears near the end.
While most of the crew a Dr e look ff.in Brighton, solving a robbery/murder, Beatrice and Smith search for a missing young girl, bringing a pregnant, vomiting Leila into the adventure.
All three are capable of wonderful vengeance when necessary.
This is a stomach churning, heart wrenching portrayal of the sexual exploitation dangers poor young girls can be faced with.
I am a big fan of this author's Lady Vi series, and this spinoff with Beatrice and Smith is a worthy addition. I admit to being in tears near the end.
While most of the crew a Dr e look ff.in Brighton, solving a robbery/murder, Beatrice and Smith search for a missing young girl, bringing a pregnant, vomiting Leila into the adventure.
All three are capable of wonderful vengeance when necessary.
This is a stomach churning, heart wrenching portrayal of the sexual exploitation dangers poor young girls can be faced with.
October 2, 2021
Loved it!
You know that feeling when you get a notification on your kindle that an author you love has a new book series starting? And when you start reading a spin-off with familiar characters who become more known to you now? That is the perfect joy I got reading this. I have always been very intrigued by Smith. And this story showed me a new side of Bea that I expected, and a side of Lila that I didn’t. My only complaint is that I was able to read it so very quickly. I sure hope the next story is coming soon!
You know that feeling when you get a notification on your kindle that an author you love has a new book series starting? And when you start reading a spin-off with familiar characters who become more known to you now? That is the perfect joy I got reading this. I have always been very intrigued by Smith. And this story showed me a new side of Bea that I expected, and a side of Lila that I didn’t. My only complaint is that I was able to read it so very quickly. I sure hope the next story is coming soon!
February 15, 2022
Having read too many Violet Carlyle books in a row, I waited to read the first one in this new series and am glad I did. Though the series is entitled Smith Investigates, the book was almost all Beatrice, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This side of Beatrice is both strong and vulnerable -- I would love to have her on my side. Lila, a friend of Violet's, emerges as a fierce champion of others with creative ways to right wrongs. I'm looking forward to seeing what trouble Smith and Beatrice find next.
July 2, 2022
A spin-off of another of the author's series, I'm not sure this can stand alone without reading the previous series. I was confused by mentions of many characters the author assumes I'm already acquainted with. Although rather sordid, the story was interesting and the outcome satisfying--at least I think so, again, not being familiar with some of the characters. Well written and I could have given 5 stars but for my feeling, which I hate, of walking into a movie half way through. I will try to go back and "catch up" to better understand this one.
September 30, 2021
Wow!
Absolutely terrific! Smith and Beatrice take a case, against his better judgment, that has them looking for a missing 13 year old girl from a poor family. This is a real ” can of worms”! Lying individuals, men preying on young girls, coverups, and a story with many tentacles. Beatrice is terrific and Lila becomes her partner in investigation! This has some hilarious antics but also is “ darker” than the usual mystery for this series!
Absolutely terrific! Smith and Beatrice take a case, against his better judgment, that has them looking for a missing 13 year old girl from a poor family. This is a real ” can of worms”! Lying individuals, men preying on young girls, coverups, and a story with many tentacles. Beatrice is terrific and Lila becomes her partner in investigation! This has some hilarious antics but also is “ darker” than the usual mystery for this series!
Read
November 8, 2021Something Wicked
The story in this book is really something wicked. Unfortunately it is still happening now, not just fiction. I liked how Smith supported Bea in her quest to find Dottie. I also liked that Lila got involved also. I have to admit that I liked some of the things Lila did to the bad guy.
I think that this will be a good series like Violet's series. The only thing about this series so far is there is no murder. I like that.
The story in this book is really something wicked. Unfortunately it is still happening now, not just fiction. I liked how Smith supported Bea in her quest to find Dottie. I also liked that Lila got involved also. I have to admit that I liked some of the things Lila did to the bad guy.
I think that this will be a good series like Violet's series. The only thing about this series so far is there is no murder. I like that.
Read
October 7, 2021Horrible to hopeful
More Beatrice's story than Smith's. More glimpses of Violet's reach into charity. Beatrice jumps into a tiny part of the life of London's poor and cannot look away. There will be consequences for those who make it worse and for those who must look right at it to change what little they can. I cried at the end, with relief and hope for the future.
More Beatrice's story than Smith's. More glimpses of Violet's reach into charity. Beatrice jumps into a tiny part of the life of London's poor and cannot look away. There will be consequences for those who make it worse and for those who must look right at it to change what little they can. I cried at the end, with relief and hope for the future.
October 17, 2021
We finally get to know Beatrice a bit better as she convinces her husband the "pretty detective" Smith to take a missing girl case--when a 13 year old disappears from her sister's home. Since everyone else is gone abeatrice drags Lila from her "sick" bed where her second pregnancy has laid her low. The two ladies and Smith set off on the skimpy trail.
November 4, 2021
Loved this! I’ve read all of the Violet Carlyle mysteries and Smith is one of those characters that begins as a peripheral person. He is also one of my favorites from the series! (I’m not certain what that says about me…).
I’m looking forward to another wonderful series! Thank you, Author Beth Byers for keeping so many of us entertained, particularly during the Pandemic! Keep safe, y’all!
I’m looking forward to another wonderful series! Thank you, Author Beth Byers for keeping so many of us entertained, particularly during the Pandemic! Keep safe, y’all!
December 31, 2021
Good start to new series
A poignant story. Good plot, well developed characters, however, the characters needed some background information. It seems that without reading books from the Voila Carlyle series, which I have not done yet, you don't understand some of the inferences made.
A poignant story. Good plot, well developed characters, however, the characters needed some background information. It seems that without reading books from the Voila Carlyle series, which I have not done yet, you don't understand some of the inferences made.
January 12, 2023
Beatrice and Smith are an odd team
The mission to find Dottie is not an easy one. She is a 13 year old girl in dark and scary circumstances. She is missing and her sister desperately cares for her and wants her found. Smith and Beatrice are determined to do so. So the search begins.
The mission to find Dottie is not an easy one. She is a 13 year old girl in dark and scary circumstances. She is missing and her sister desperately cares for her and wants her found. Smith and Beatrice are determined to do so. So the search begins.
September 30, 2021
Spin off
The side characters are stepping into the spotlight. We still saw more of Mrs. Smith instead of Mr. Smith but it worked and I'll be reading the next one as soon as it hits my kindle.
The side characters are stepping into the spotlight. We still saw more of Mrs. Smith instead of Mr. Smith but it worked and I'll be reading the next one as soon as it hits my kindle.
October 1, 2021
Excellent beginning book
I could not put it down. This author has a superb way of telling stories and her characters make you want to know them. I am excited for the next book and those after. Highly recommend
I could not put it down. This author has a superb way of telling stories and her characters make you want to know them. I am excited for the next book and those after. Highly recommend
October 1, 2021
Great book
Be sure to read the Violet Carlyle series as they tie in with this new series. My only problem with both series is that I can't put them down! Great writing and a fantastic series. I hope there are .ore coming
Be sure to read the Violet Carlyle series as they tie in with this new series. My only problem with both series is that I can't put them down! Great writing and a fantastic series. I hope there are .ore coming
October 5, 2021
A wonderful book
This book is worthy of five stars. It makes you laugh and cry. I love Smith and Bea. They are asked to investigate a missing thirteen year old girl. There are a few twists and a nice surprise for Ham and Rita.
This book is worthy of five stars. It makes you laugh and cry. I love Smith and Bea. They are asked to investigate a missing thirteen year old girl. There are a few twists and a nice surprise for Ham and Rita.
October 8, 2021
A sad beautiful story
Those one actually bright me to tears. But it fits perfectly with in the universe of Violet's adventures. I love that these stories have the depth of how what they go through affects them. That what they go through has a cost and that it is included.
Those one actually bright me to tears. But it fits perfectly with in the universe of Violet's adventures. I love that these stories have the depth of how what they go through affects them. That what they go through has a cost and that it is included.
October 19, 2021
Heartwarming
Exciting, but heartwarming. A wonderful addition to the Lady Violet Carlyle mysteries. The historical background of how the world was before our social services existed. How terrifying to be alone in the world.
Exciting, but heartwarming. A wonderful addition to the Lady Violet Carlyle mysteries. The historical background of how the world was before our social services existed. How terrifying to be alone in the world.
October 20, 2021
a monster is born
Smith is such a baddy and now Bea is a little monster and who knew Lila would be as well. Love how these silly young things can turn bad a$& in a minute. Great read
Smith is such a baddy and now Bea is a little monster and who knew Lila would be as well. Love how these silly young things can turn bad a$& in a minute. Great read
October 24, 2021
Great first book in what I hope will be a long series
It was so nice to learn more about Beatrice and Smith and their relationship. A very clever book, as always, and an exciting and enjoyable read.
It was so nice to learn more about Beatrice and Smith and their relationship. A very clever book, as always, and an exciting and enjoyable read.
November 1, 2021
Bea and Smith are perfect together
This series is an offshoot of The Violet Carlyle mysteries. And in my humble opinion, it is fantastic! Bea and that angelic devil she married are wonderful together! Read them all! They really are that good!!!
This series is an offshoot of The Violet Carlyle mysteries. And in my humble opinion, it is fantastic! Bea and that angelic devil she married are wonderful together! Read them all! They really are that good!!!
November 18, 2021
The. Smiths Are On The Case
I liked this book. Wasn't sure at the start, but it definitely picked up when Lila entered the picture. I was so glad she was included. Vi and Victor's friends have always made these books so enjoyable. Highly recommend.
I liked this book. Wasn't sure at the start, but it definitely picked up when Lila entered the picture. I was so glad she was included. Vi and Victor's friends have always made these books so enjoyable. Highly recommend.
December 4, 2021
A perfect combination
This book is a perfect combination of the struggle between right and wrong, and exploring all of the grey areas in between; and how rules are sometimes meant to be broken.
This book is a perfect combination of the struggle between right and wrong, and exploring all of the grey areas in between; and how rules are sometimes meant to be broken.
December 24, 2021
Another great series
By now I know that anything Byers writes will be another book that I love...however, I wondered how she would make this work. Magic, I suppose but she's definitely done it again. There will NEVER be another Violet series but this one is very, very good.
By now I know that anything Byers writes will be another book that I love...however, I wondered how she would make this work. Magic, I suppose but she's definitely done it again. There will NEVER be another Violet series but this one is very, very good.
February 28, 2022
Excellent Story
What a delight to get to know Beatrice and Smith better. To see how they work together, care for one another, and help those in dire need. Can hardly wait for the next story!
What a delight to get to know Beatrice and Smith better. To see how they work together, care for one another, and help those in dire need. Can hardly wait for the next story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews