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Lady Eleanor Swift #8
Death on a Winter's Day
Christmas at the castle with holly, handmade gifts, snowflakes and… is that a body under the tree? Someone call Lady Swift!
Winter, 1921. Lady Eleanor Swift, amateur sleuth and reluctant lady of the manor, has been invited to spend Christmas in Scotland, at the beautiful castle of her dear friends Baron and Baroness Ashley. Even her favourite companion, master of mischief Gladstone the bulldog, is coming along to share a slice of turkey. As snow begins to fall outside, the rather mismatched group are cozy by the roaring fire, sharing a tipple over a plate of Mrs Trotman’s famous mince pies.
But after what was supposed to be a fun party game, Mr Eugene Randall is found dead at the feast. A somewhat unpopular business associate of the Baron’s from across the pond, it seems Mr Randall has certainly upset somebody. Was it what he said about Scottish whisky?
The killer must be in the castle… and when the Baron is arrested, Baroness Ashley begs Eleanor to investigate. Determined not to let her friend down, Eleanor sets about questioning the remaining partygoers.
All too swiftly, someone else is found dead, having apparently fallen from a high balcony. As if one murder wasn’t enough to put a twist in the tinsel! Eleanor knows she’s skating on thin ice now. And when she discovers a hidden document that points the finger of suspicion at the unlikeliest of suspects, she realises there’s more to the story. Can Eleanor catch the killer before it’s time for Christmas dinner?
The perfect cozy mystery to curl up with this winter! Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss are in for a festive treat.
Winter, 1921. Lady Eleanor Swift, amateur sleuth and reluctant lady of the manor, has been invited to spend Christmas in Scotland, at the beautiful castle of her dear friends Baron and Baroness Ashley. Even her favourite companion, master of mischief Gladstone the bulldog, is coming along to share a slice of turkey. As snow begins to fall outside, the rather mismatched group are cozy by the roaring fire, sharing a tipple over a plate of Mrs Trotman’s famous mince pies.
But after what was supposed to be a fun party game, Mr Eugene Randall is found dead at the feast. A somewhat unpopular business associate of the Baron’s from across the pond, it seems Mr Randall has certainly upset somebody. Was it what he said about Scottish whisky?
The killer must be in the castle… and when the Baron is arrested, Baroness Ashley begs Eleanor to investigate. Determined not to let her friend down, Eleanor sets about questioning the remaining partygoers.
All too swiftly, someone else is found dead, having apparently fallen from a high balcony. As if one murder wasn’t enough to put a twist in the tinsel! Eleanor knows she’s skating on thin ice now. And when she discovers a hidden document that points the finger of suspicion at the unlikeliest of suspects, she realises there’s more to the story. Can Eleanor catch the killer before it’s time for Christmas dinner?
The perfect cozy mystery to curl up with this winter! Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss are in for a festive treat.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2021
1448 people are currently reading
526 people want to read
About the author
Verity Bright
26 books378 followersVerity Bright is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing partnership that has spanned a quarter of a century. Starting out writing high-end travel articles and books, they published everything from self-improvement to humour, before embarking on their first historical mystery.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
October 28, 2021
This is the latest from the authors behind Verity Bright, having heard good things about this series, I decided to read this historical crime series featuring Lady Eleanor Swift who has inherited Henley Hall and the wonderful staff that go with it. There is the gem that is the butler Clifford, housekeeper Mrs Butters, the marvellous cook Mrs Trotman and young maid Polly. It is 1921 and in a broken telephone conversations with her friends, Baron Clarence Ashley and his wife, artist Wilhelmina, Eleanor learns that Christmas at their Ranburgh Castle has been cancelled as the Presbyterian Church has banned Christmas in Scotland. Their staff are refusing to work over the festive period, so after consulting with her staff, they, Eleanor and her bulldog, Gladstone, are all going to Scotland to support the Ashleys, particularly as their marriage had been a lovematch that had not gone down well in society.
Driving up to Scotland in her Rolls, Eleanor arrives completely soaked at the Castle in the middle of a loch, the weather is atrocious and matters are about to get much worse. There is discord between the staff and there is a tense atmosphere amongst the guests, which include Sir Edward and his wife, Lady Fortesque, relatives of Clarence, Dr Connell, Robert Cameron, the Laird of Dunburgh and his son, Gordon, and the unpleasant American Eugene Randall. After dinner on Christmas Eve, everyone is playing the game wink murder when the lights go out, when they come back on there is there horrifying sight of Randall who has been stabbed to death. The local police prove to problematic, and when Clarence is arrested for murder, Wilhelmina asks Eleanor to investigate, which she does with the help of the reliable and knowledgeable Clifford. As they look into all the guests, the killer has to be one of them, there is another murder and an under the weather DCI Hugh Seldon of Scotland Yard arrives to help.
This is a fun and entertaining murder mystery, set in a time of rigid social and class structures, and the social niceties and aristcratic etiquette are a challenge for the free spirit that is Eleanor, who grew up abroad and has little knowledge of what is expected of her. Having lost her parents when she was young, Eleanor is surprised to learn that they had honeymooned in Scotland, close to where she is staying. She becomes more familiar with Scottish folklore and legends of selkies as she seeks to discover more about her mother. Eleanor finds herself having to use her nursing skills when events take a deadly turn in this engaging seasonal historical crime read which I think many readers will enjoy. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Driving up to Scotland in her Rolls, Eleanor arrives completely soaked at the Castle in the middle of a loch, the weather is atrocious and matters are about to get much worse. There is discord between the staff and there is a tense atmosphere amongst the guests, which include Sir Edward and his wife, Lady Fortesque, relatives of Clarence, Dr Connell, Robert Cameron, the Laird of Dunburgh and his son, Gordon, and the unpleasant American Eugene Randall. After dinner on Christmas Eve, everyone is playing the game wink murder when the lights go out, when they come back on there is there horrifying sight of Randall who has been stabbed to death. The local police prove to problematic, and when Clarence is arrested for murder, Wilhelmina asks Eleanor to investigate, which she does with the help of the reliable and knowledgeable Clifford. As they look into all the guests, the killer has to be one of them, there is another murder and an under the weather DCI Hugh Seldon of Scotland Yard arrives to help.
This is a fun and entertaining murder mystery, set in a time of rigid social and class structures, and the social niceties and aristcratic etiquette are a challenge for the free spirit that is Eleanor, who grew up abroad and has little knowledge of what is expected of her. Having lost her parents when she was young, Eleanor is surprised to learn that they had honeymooned in Scotland, close to where she is staying. She becomes more familiar with Scottish folklore and legends of selkies as she seeks to discover more about her mother. Eleanor finds herself having to use her nursing skills when events take a deadly turn in this engaging seasonal historical crime read which I think many readers will enjoy. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
November 11, 2021
Christmas in a castle in Scotland sounds wonderful but ends up being quite a disaster for Lady Eleanor and her team, although I think Gladstone enjoys himself. A Christmas game called Wink ends up being more like Murder in the Dark with a real corpse.
Again the real draw of this book for me is the wonderful relationship between Eleanor and Clifford and their delightful repartee. After eight books all the characters are like friends and it is a real pleasure to spend time with them.
Further developments regarding Hugh are fun too but I hope the authors do not make him any more of a duffer than he is in this book. Ellie needs an equal partner in her relationships and at the moment he is appearing rather weak! A great book though and I am always ready for the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Again the real draw of this book for me is the wonderful relationship between Eleanor and Clifford and their delightful repartee. After eight books all the characters are like friends and it is a real pleasure to spend time with them.
Further developments regarding Hugh are fun too but I hope the authors do not make him any more of a duffer than he is in this book. Ellie needs an equal partner in her relationships and at the moment he is appearing rather weak! A great book though and I am always ready for the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 20, 2021
The winter of 1921, in Scotland, in a drafty old castle, was freezing! Lady Eleanor Swift, her butler Clifford and Gladstone the dog, plus all the Henley Hall staff travelled to spend Christmas with Baron and Baroness Ashley, Clarence and Wilhelmina. There were other guests as well, but the atmosphere was almost a chilly as it was outside the castle. One of the guests, a disagreeable American, who continued to imbibe heavily was suddenly found dead at the dining table. But the local police weren’t particularly interested and when Baron Ashley was arrested, the Baroness begged Eleanor to find the real killer.
When another body was discovered in the freezing snow, Eleanor and Clifford knew they had a race on their hands. Could they find the evildoer who was obviously in the castle with them all, before he murdered again? Was this the worst Christmas Ellie had ever known?
Oh I do love this series! Death on a Winter’s Day is the 8th in A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series by Verity Bright, and I thoroughly enjoy the interactions between Ellie and Clifford as well as the staff. I’d very much like to visit Henley Hall to meet them all, even the slobbery Gladstone! Such a fun series with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When another body was discovered in the freezing snow, Eleanor and Clifford knew they had a race on their hands. Could they find the evildoer who was obviously in the castle with them all, before he murdered again? Was this the worst Christmas Ellie had ever known?
Oh I do love this series! Death on a Winter’s Day is the 8th in A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series by Verity Bright, and I thoroughly enjoy the interactions between Ellie and Clifford as well as the staff. I’d very much like to visit Henley Hall to meet them all, even the slobbery Gladstone! Such a fun series with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
The truth was, she had still yet to hold so much as a formal tea at Henley Hall, even though she’d inherited it well over a year ago. Not that she was antisocial; she often attended events at other estates, after all. It was just that having spent a lifetime abroad, she may have been perfectly comfortable tackling dangerous animals, and equally dangerous locals in far-flung places, but tackling the social niceties of England in her own home was a far more daunting prospect.
I hope sleep manages to creep under yer door before the dawn…
‘I did bring the ultimate make-everything-bearable-if-only-for-a-few-delicious-moments medicine.’ She tipped the tray, making the plate bearing an impressive display of chocolates nestled on an ivory napkin clink against the bottle of sherry and the two crystal glasses.
Exhaustion is fatigue’s elder brother, sickness be their parents.
My Review:
I continue in my dabbling of holiday-themed tales and have combined that with my adoration of Verity Bright, as I can proudly state I have read every book in this delightful cozy mystery series set in the 1920s. The engaging and amusing storylines are original and easy to follow yet unpredictable with a nuanced network of twists and turns while the gentle pair of an adventurous titled lady and her every prepared and brilliantly acquitted butler make their observations, ponder the possible suspects, and fine-tune their theories. This tale took the pair to the land of my forebearers in the clear and frosty air of Scotland during the holidays – oh, I do loves me a Scottish burr. The narrative also included a spot of whimsy with the inclusion of a selkie, a mythical creature I was compelled to consult Mr. Google for further edification. What fun!
The truth was, she had still yet to hold so much as a formal tea at Henley Hall, even though she’d inherited it well over a year ago. Not that she was antisocial; she often attended events at other estates, after all. It was just that having spent a lifetime abroad, she may have been perfectly comfortable tackling dangerous animals, and equally dangerous locals in far-flung places, but tackling the social niceties of England in her own home was a far more daunting prospect.
I hope sleep manages to creep under yer door before the dawn…
‘I did bring the ultimate make-everything-bearable-if-only-for-a-few-delicious-moments medicine.’ She tipped the tray, making the plate bearing an impressive display of chocolates nestled on an ivory napkin clink against the bottle of sherry and the two crystal glasses.
Exhaustion is fatigue’s elder brother, sickness be their parents.
My Review:
I continue in my dabbling of holiday-themed tales and have combined that with my adoration of Verity Bright, as I can proudly state I have read every book in this delightful cozy mystery series set in the 1920s. The engaging and amusing storylines are original and easy to follow yet unpredictable with a nuanced network of twists and turns while the gentle pair of an adventurous titled lady and her every prepared and brilliantly acquitted butler make their observations, ponder the possible suspects, and fine-tune their theories. This tale took the pair to the land of my forebearers in the clear and frosty air of Scotland during the holidays – oh, I do loves me a Scottish burr. The narrative also included a spot of whimsy with the inclusion of a selkie, a mythical creature I was compelled to consult Mr. Google for further edification. What fun!
February 15, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have really been digging cozy mysteries set in the 1920s lately, and this was another fabulous read. The writing was excellent. It stood up well as a standalone (I cannot wait to dive into the first seven books). The plot was engaging with plenty of red herrings. The setting (Scotland) was lovely and atmospheric. There was a light touch of folklore, and the characters were very likable. I especially loved the relationship between Eleanor and Clifford. I can't wait to see what happens next for these characters!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
November 30, 2021
In this 8th book of a delightful cozy mystery series, Lady Swift and her household staff travel to Scotland for Christmas. Hoping for a fairy tale yuletide with Baron and Baroness Ashley and their guests, things take a dark turn almost immediately. During Christmas Eve dinner, Eugene Randall, a wealthy businessman from America, is murdered. Since Castle Ranburgh is isolated and reachable only by crossing the loch, Eleanor is faced with the fact that someone on the island is responsible.
I've followed Eleanor Swift since the beginning and it is best if you read the books in order to fully appreciate all the relationships, but I enjoy the period details of the 1920s era. Sometimes I laugh out loud at the interaction between Lady Swift and her butler and right hand man, Clifford. Although I had already pegged the killer in this locked-room type mystery, the setting and the narrative kept me interested. The bit of supernatural or mythological selkie stuff didn't appeal and was a bit unusual for this series, but the book did seem quite right for the season. Eleanor certainly has some mad skills in many areas, but she is a fun character.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
I've followed Eleanor Swift since the beginning and it is best if you read the books in order to fully appreciate all the relationships, but I enjoy the period details of the 1920s era. Sometimes I laugh out loud at the interaction between Lady Swift and her butler and right hand man, Clifford. Although I had already pegged the killer in this locked-room type mystery, the setting and the narrative kept me interested. The bit of supernatural or mythological selkie stuff didn't appeal and was a bit unusual for this series, but the book did seem quite right for the season. Eleanor certainly has some mad skills in many areas, but she is a fun character.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
January 23, 2022
Christmas cancelled! Not on Lady Eleanor Swift's watch and sure enough in this 8th installment, we see her bring her entire Henley Hall entourage to Scotland to save the Christmas celebration of her close friends, the Ashleys, at Castle Ranburgh. Once there, saving the Christmas celebration becomes least of her worries when one of the guests is found stabbed to death during the Christmas Eve dinner and Baron Ashley is incarcerated as the main suspect!
I liked how the Scottish historical and folklore references were incorporated in this book with Eleanor unlocking another piece of information about her mother. There is also a major nudge (finally!) forward on the romantic front and we also get a new addition to the Henley Hall entourage by the end of the book.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Verity Bright for the e-Arc of the book.
I liked how the Scottish historical and folklore references were incorporated in this book with Eleanor unlocking another piece of information about her mother. There is also a major nudge (finally!) forward on the romantic front and we also get a new addition to the Henley Hall entourage by the end of the book.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Verity Bright for the e-Arc of the book.
August 1, 2022
Rating: 5++ / 5
I have to admit, out of all the Eleanor Swift books that I've read so far, this one had me the most on edge!
In many ways, this makes sense though, as tension is set up through the following facts:
+ Eleanor and her gang are all removed from Henley Hall up to unknown territory in Scotland
+ that territory is on a secluded island, accessible only by boat across a perilous loch
+ the servants are at odds with each other, with even Clifford having to content with keeping the peace
+ the guests are also at odds with each other, for mysterious reasons unknown and with tension that pierces the air like the knife
And, ahem, of course then there's the murder that takes place.
Right in front of Eleanor's eyes, in fact.
Well, it's pitch black, so she doesn't see anything, but the fact remains that this is the closest that a murder's actually happened to her before, so it's natural that both she and Clifford are on-edge as a result.
Whew! That's quite a set up!
Anyway, it was nice having everyone out of their usual, comfortable elements at Henley Hall, even to the point that Clifford starts to worry. Add to this that the murderer is among them (since they're stuck on the island and all), and the fact that it's supposed to be a cheery Christmas instead, and you've got quite the compelling read!
All I can say, without giving anything from the plot away, is that this was the most atmospheric of the Eleanor Swift novels since A Very English Murder, where the setting contributes a lot to the reader's sense of what's going on and what's hidden. I really appreciated it for all it contained and, though I'm not officially ranking the novels yet, I see this one as being very high up on the list!
I have to admit, out of all the Eleanor Swift books that I've read so far, this one had me the most on edge!
In many ways, this makes sense though, as tension is set up through the following facts:
+ Eleanor and her gang are all removed from Henley Hall up to unknown territory in Scotland
+ that territory is on a secluded island, accessible only by boat across a perilous loch
+ the servants are at odds with each other, with even Clifford having to content with keeping the peace
+ the guests are also at odds with each other, for mysterious reasons unknown and with tension that pierces the air like the knife
And, ahem, of course then there's the murder that takes place.
Right in front of Eleanor's eyes, in fact.
Well, it's pitch black, so she doesn't see anything, but the fact remains that this is the closest that a murder's actually happened to her before, so it's natural that both she and Clifford are on-edge as a result.
Whew! That's quite a set up!
Anyway, it was nice having everyone out of their usual, comfortable elements at Henley Hall, even to the point that Clifford starts to worry. Add to this that the murderer is among them (since they're stuck on the island and all), and the fact that it's supposed to be a cheery Christmas instead, and you've got quite the compelling read!
All I can say, without giving anything from the plot away, is that this was the most atmospheric of the Eleanor Swift novels since A Very English Murder, where the setting contributes a lot to the reader's sense of what's going on and what's hidden. I really appreciated it for all it contained and, though I'm not officially ranking the novels yet, I see this one as being very high up on the list!
November 23, 2021
Christmas is cancelled!! Or so Lady Eleanor Swift is told by Baron and Baroness Ashley when their plans to host friends at their Scottish castle for Christmas are scuttled by their Scottish staff. Thinking quickly, Eleanor drafts her own staff to step in. After arrival, Eleanor discovers that not only are three of the Ashley's Scottish servants still there, and pretty pissed off about the Christmas festivities, but the Ashley's guests are not particularly happy with the Ashleys either. After a game of the bizarre "wink murder", one of the guests, with connections to the Baron Ashley's business hopes, ends up dead.
Eleanor has some experience poking her nose into other people's business when murder is involved (this is her eighth outing), and between her and her immensely talented butler, Clifford, they ask uncomfortable questions, with more murders and revelations occurring.
Eleanor Swift has a lot of pluck and spunk. Her unconventional upbringing and experience leaves her fitting in better with her staff than her social equals. In fact, one of the best scenes in this fun and light mystery has her partying Christmas night in the kitchen with her tipsy staff. There's so much joy and humour and respect amongst the bunch, things that are missing amongst the gentry guests, where people are losing it on each other, and pretty much all the clues point to the Baron as the culprit. Eleanor, or course, feels obligated to keep pushing to find the truth.
This was light and the mystery was pretty easy to figure out, but the story was still enjoyable. The one little thing that did detract from my enjoyment was the way the author showed us Eleanor's thoughts; her constant use of a diminutive of her name actually had me irritated the longer I read. Other than that, a fun mystery, and Clifford is the best!
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Eleanor has some experience poking her nose into other people's business when murder is involved (this is her eighth outing), and between her and her immensely talented butler, Clifford, they ask uncomfortable questions, with more murders and revelations occurring.
Eleanor Swift has a lot of pluck and spunk. Her unconventional upbringing and experience leaves her fitting in better with her staff than her social equals. In fact, one of the best scenes in this fun and light mystery has her partying Christmas night in the kitchen with her tipsy staff. There's so much joy and humour and respect amongst the bunch, things that are missing amongst the gentry guests, where people are losing it on each other, and pretty much all the clues point to the Baron as the culprit. Eleanor, or course, feels obligated to keep pushing to find the truth.
This was light and the mystery was pretty easy to figure out, but the story was still enjoyable. The one little thing that did detract from my enjoyment was the way the author showed us Eleanor's thoughts; her constant use of a diminutive of her name actually had me irritated the longer I read. Other than that, a fun mystery, and Clifford is the best!
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 27, 2022
Lady Eleanor's hopes for a lovely Christmas celebration with friends of friends are dashed when Baron Ashley calls from his Scottish castle to announce Christmas has been cancelled! At least, at Castle Ranburgh which is located in the Highlands where the dour Presbyterian villagers don't celebrate Christmas! *gasp* Ellie feels bad for the newlywed, lower class Lady Ashley who was looking forward to charming her husband's circle with a perfect Christmas party. Ellie hits upon the perfect solution! She'll volunteer her own staff to pitch in and help, if they agree, which they unanimously vote on, even Clifford who seems to feel a sense of dread about the trip. After 19 long hours in the Rolls with Clifford, a drive up a barely there path and a harrowing journey across the loch with a man draped in dead animals, Ellie arrives to discover Clifford's sense of foreboding was correct. The three staff members remaining at the castle resent the intrusion of Ellie's staff and are not thrilled to have to serve a lavish Christmas party. The guests aren't too thrilled either, with American Millionaire Eugene Randall III making a drunken scene and arguing with Baron Ashley; the Baron's snooty relatives mooching off him while making snide comments about the new Baroness and the local Laird's son grouchy and rude. Only Robert Cameron, Laird of Dunburgh is feeling jolly. Ellie and Clifford try to salvage the situation by suggesting a game. A fun game of wink murder turns into the real thing. When the lights go out and return shortly after, one of the guests is discovered with a dirk in his back right through the heart! The local inspector doesn't do a thorough job and seems convinced Baron Ashley is the culprit. Ellie really wants Lady Ashley, a fellow misfit, to succeed and be happy and the only way that can happen is if she solves the murder. Can she do it safely while marooned on an island during a snowstorm?
The atmosphere of this novel is very Christieesque with everyone stuck on an island on a dark and stormy night. Fortunately, there are only two deaths and not 12. I was worried the plot was going to stick too closely to Christie's chilling masterpiece. Verity Bright is nowhere near the level of any of the Golden Age mystery writers nor even some of the better contemporary writers. There are way too many small errors in this book for my taste. The most glaring and annoying is Ellie's frequent wearing of her mother's old gowns. EEW! Who wants to wear their mother's old clothes ? Yes today they're vintage and some people are into that but let's put it this way: Do the Crawley ladies wear their mother's old gowns? NO! They dress much more fashionably. Ellie's mother has been dead a long time and was gone out of the house long before that. Her gowns would be Victorian/early Edwardian and need to be worn with a corset. Ellie doesn't strike me as a corset wearer. The other big error appears only once - Baron Ashley should have a barony and not a baronetcy. My big pet peeve "alright" for all right appears numerous times even when the meaning is clearly all right as in "It was all right" and not "Are you alright?" as in OK?.
The plot gets off to a really slow start. I didn't care who the murderer was. It seemed obvious who and why to me but I wasn't sure and just didn't care. I put the book down to go to sleep before the halfway point. I couldn't sleep this morning so I picked it up again and got caught up in the last third. The story really picks up then with a plot twist, a surprise new arrival, a daring escape from danger and the moment we've been waiting for! I couldn't put it down then! The murderer was who I thought it was but I didn't see the twist coming at all. I wasn't crazy about the slight paranormal aspect of the story. I know loch monsters and selkies are part of Scottish folklore and a trip to the Highlands wouldn't be complete without them but the selkie thing was too weird and too much of a coincidence for me. Unless it explains
Ellie has grown a lot since she first inherited Henley Hall. She's such a kind, compassionate young woman and her staff are devoted to her. Ellie has a keen mind and a strong sense of justice yet she can also feel empathy for the suspects. I like that about her. I love how she's molded young Polly and helped the girl gain confidence. Polly is coming into her own. She's so sweet and I was happy to see her make a new friend. Mrs. Butters and Mrs. Trottman are a delight as usual, especially when they let their hair down and celebrate. Gladstone comes on the trip too but he doesn't have a lot to do. He doesn't get up to his usual slipper chewing antics. Clifford is, as ever, Ellie's bodyguard, protector and partner in sleuthing. He's always cool under pressure and manages his official duties to the utmost perfection even when he's faced with challenges and lack of sleep. What I really like about this series is how he's become the father figure in Ellie's life and helps her heal old wounds regarding her uncle's seeming abandonment.
This novel is set at Christmas but none of the new characters are really in a festive mood. Lord Ashley tries. He seems like an affable English Lord and he's trying to please the locals but also please his wife. He married beneath him and to a much younger woman. Ellie thinks they're devoted to each other but we don't get much of that in this story. He's hiding something and she's withdrawn and upset. Like Ellie, I want Wilhelmina to succeed. Born to the working class, she's a fighter. She married for love but it doesn't seem to be working out. Her husband's relatives hate her based purely on their social snobbery and her servants hate her for forcing them to serve her up a Christmas celebration. Some of the clues point to either of the hosts as the murderer. I hope not because I want them to have a chance at happiness but with Baron Ashley lying about a lot of things and not being supportive of his wife, that is not likely to happen. How tragic!
Eugene Randall, the Third is an American mining millionaire. He's not a guest per say in the traditional sense. He seems to be visiting on business. Baron Ashley has some sort of scheme afoot and was heard arguing with Eugene. Eugene was also very, very drunk in spite of Clifford watering his drinks. Could someone have drugged his drink or plied him with more alcohol to make him easier to kill? Eugene was not at all a pleasant person. He had a nasty temper and was nothing but rude and took advantage of his host's generosity.
The Laird is the only one having fun. Educated in England, he is more amenable to celebrating Christmas. He can bridge the cultural divide and explain things to Ellie. He's nice, cheerful and devoted to his land and people. He wants what is best for the people who are out of work and stuck even before the Great Depression. Robert sees progress as the way forward. His son, Gordan Cameron, Master of Dunburgh, is not at all pleasant or nice to anyone. He doesn't want to be there and he doesn't believe in celebrating Christmas and makes his feelings known to one and all. His behavior is rude and insulting to everyone, including his own father. I would be furious if I were the Laird and had an adult son behave that way towards our hosts. I understand Gordon's viewpoint regarding the British and their traditions but I don't see him proposing any new plans for jobs for the people. Also, don't blame someone in the present for what people of the past did. Baron Ashley came by his castle by purchasing it and not inheritance. His presence gives jobs to the servants. He didn't bring his staff from London.
Sir Edward and Lady Fortescue are the only relatives of Baron Ashley who bothered to come to Christmas and it sounds like they invited themselves. Why because obvious to Ellie pretty quickly but do they have an extra motive? Did they know Eugene prior to this and did a previous meeting cause feelings of hatred that may have led to murder? Oh let it be Lady F who is the murderer! She's so rude and nasty to her hostess just because Wilhelmina doesn't come from Society. The Fortescues do seem happy together and devoted to each other. Maybe they can be hanged together? Doctor Connell is another local guest. He seems a little quiet and serious but is polite. He loves the land as much as the Laird and I don't think he approves of whatever Clarence has in mind but is too polite to say so. Even if he had motive and opportunity to murder, I wouldn't think he would make it that obvious. Plus, he's a doctor and he vowed to help people.
Downstairs there is Mrs. Mackenzie, the horrid housekeeper and cook. She's nasty to everyone, even her own staff. She rules the kitchen with an iron fist and resents Ellie's ladies intruding. I really think she's capable of murder but why murder a guest and not the host? Henderson, the lazy footman, is a good candidate for murderer. He was around, serving at the table, he turned the lights back on and seems like a suspicious person. Henderson is not to be trusted. Lizzie, the maid, is very sweet. She's shy and timid but bonds with Polly. I suppose she was once like Polly and still is around Mrs. Mackenzie. Lizzie is kind to the younger girl and helps Polly grow while Polly helps Lizzie gain confidence and shows the other maid kindness.
Other new characters include Drummond, from the village, the boat rower. He's always draped in dead animals and has a dour disposition- unless he's handsomely paid in food and coins. Drummond turned out to be a comical character. Constable Magoon is an ineffectual idiot. He barely holds on to the contents of his stomach when confronted with a dead body and doesn't really do any assessment of the situation. He hands the task off to Inspector Lockhart, who isn't much better. Lockhart is gruff, tough and suspicious of foreigners. He's arrogant and possibly corrupt. Lockhart thinks this is an open and shut case and doesn't want to hear anything different. Officer Stanton seems to be following in Lockhart's arrogant wake. Finally, DCI Hugh Seldon appears on the scene! He's a much better detective and good friend to Ellie. Is that all they are? Friends? Hmm... He's nearly dead from overwork and exhaustion yet he came all the way to Scotland, across the monster-filled loch in the cold to help Ellie. I like their relationship very much but I wish they'd talk about the dead wife bombshell! How long was he married? How did she die? They didn't have children did they? He's finally seeing how sharp Ellie is and learning to respect her sleuthing even if he doesn't like it.
I look forward to the next installment!
*****************************Reread June 2022***************************
I remembered this one perfectly, at least whodunit anyway. I forgot why specifically though. I also remembered some of the dramatic conclusion. The only thing I have to add to my original review is "the ladies" are cute but unbelievable. Mrs. Butters and Mrs. Trottman, Ellie's housekeeper and cook, are delightful. They're cheeky, funny and confident. They enjoy driving the oh-so-proper Clifford crazy with their antics. Trotters, the cook, is known for her amazing alcoholic concoctions, of which there are many! Ellie enjoys hanging out with them in the servants quarters and having a good time. She's more comfortable with her staff than people of her own class and treats them with the respect they deserve.
The atmosphere of this novel is very Christieesque with everyone stuck on an island on a dark and stormy night. Fortunately, there are only two deaths and not 12. I was worried the plot was going to stick too closely to Christie's chilling masterpiece. Verity Bright is nowhere near the level of any of the Golden Age mystery writers nor even some of the better contemporary writers. There are way too many small errors in this book for my taste. The most glaring and annoying is Ellie's frequent wearing of her mother's old gowns. EEW! Who wants to wear their mother's old clothes ? Yes today they're vintage and some people are into that but let's put it this way: Do the Crawley ladies wear their mother's old gowns? NO! They dress much more fashionably. Ellie's mother has been dead a long time and was gone out of the house long before that. Her gowns would be Victorian/early Edwardian and need to be worn with a corset. Ellie doesn't strike me as a corset wearer. The other big error appears only once - Baron Ashley should have a barony and not a baronetcy. My big pet peeve "alright" for all right appears numerous times even when the meaning is clearly all right as in "It was all right" and not "Are you alright?" as in OK?.
The plot gets off to a really slow start. I didn't care who the murderer was. It seemed obvious who and why to me but I wasn't sure and just didn't care. I put the book down to go to sleep before the halfway point. I couldn't sleep this morning so I picked it up again and got caught up in the last third. The story really picks up then with a plot twist, a surprise new arrival, a daring escape from danger and the moment we've been waiting for! I couldn't put it down then! The murderer was who I thought it was but I didn't see the twist coming at all. I wasn't crazy about the slight paranormal aspect of the story. I know loch monsters and selkies are part of Scottish folklore and a trip to the Highlands wouldn't be complete without them but the selkie thing was too weird and too much of a coincidence for me. Unless it explains
Ellie has grown a lot since she first inherited Henley Hall. She's such a kind, compassionate young woman and her staff are devoted to her. Ellie has a keen mind and a strong sense of justice yet she can also feel empathy for the suspects. I like that about her. I love how she's molded young Polly and helped the girl gain confidence. Polly is coming into her own. She's so sweet and I was happy to see her make a new friend. Mrs. Butters and Mrs. Trottman are a delight as usual, especially when they let their hair down and celebrate. Gladstone comes on the trip too but he doesn't have a lot to do. He doesn't get up to his usual slipper chewing antics. Clifford is, as ever, Ellie's bodyguard, protector and partner in sleuthing. He's always cool under pressure and manages his official duties to the utmost perfection even when he's faced with challenges and lack of sleep. What I really like about this series is how he's become the father figure in Ellie's life and helps her heal old wounds regarding her uncle's seeming abandonment.
This novel is set at Christmas but none of the new characters are really in a festive mood. Lord Ashley tries. He seems like an affable English Lord and he's trying to please the locals but also please his wife. He married beneath him and to a much younger woman. Ellie thinks they're devoted to each other but we don't get much of that in this story. He's hiding something and she's withdrawn and upset. Like Ellie, I want Wilhelmina to succeed. Born to the working class, she's a fighter. She married for love but it doesn't seem to be working out. Her husband's relatives hate her based purely on their social snobbery and her servants hate her for forcing them to serve her up a Christmas celebration. Some of the clues point to either of the hosts as the murderer. I hope not because I want them to have a chance at happiness but with Baron Ashley lying about a lot of things and not being supportive of his wife, that is not likely to happen. How tragic!
Eugene Randall, the Third is an American mining millionaire. He's not a guest per say in the traditional sense. He seems to be visiting on business. Baron Ashley has some sort of scheme afoot and was heard arguing with Eugene. Eugene was also very, very drunk in spite of Clifford watering his drinks. Could someone have drugged his drink or plied him with more alcohol to make him easier to kill? Eugene was not at all a pleasant person. He had a nasty temper and was nothing but rude and took advantage of his host's generosity.
The Laird is the only one having fun. Educated in England, he is more amenable to celebrating Christmas. He can bridge the cultural divide and explain things to Ellie. He's nice, cheerful and devoted to his land and people. He wants what is best for the people who are out of work and stuck even before the Great Depression. Robert sees progress as the way forward. His son, Gordan Cameron, Master of Dunburgh, is not at all pleasant or nice to anyone. He doesn't want to be there and he doesn't believe in celebrating Christmas and makes his feelings known to one and all. His behavior is rude and insulting to everyone, including his own father. I would be furious if I were the Laird and had an adult son behave that way towards our hosts. I understand Gordon's viewpoint regarding the British and their traditions but I don't see him proposing any new plans for jobs for the people. Also, don't blame someone in the present for what people of the past did. Baron Ashley came by his castle by purchasing it and not inheritance. His presence gives jobs to the servants. He didn't bring his staff from London.
Sir Edward and Lady Fortescue are the only relatives of Baron Ashley who bothered to come to Christmas and it sounds like they invited themselves. Why because obvious to Ellie pretty quickly but do they have an extra motive? Did they know Eugene prior to this and did a previous meeting cause feelings of hatred that may have led to murder? Oh let it be Lady F who is the murderer! She's so rude and nasty to her hostess just because Wilhelmina doesn't come from Society. The Fortescues do seem happy together and devoted to each other. Maybe they can be hanged together? Doctor Connell is another local guest. He seems a little quiet and serious but is polite. He loves the land as much as the Laird and I don't think he approves of whatever Clarence has in mind but is too polite to say so. Even if he had motive and opportunity to murder, I wouldn't think he would make it that obvious. Plus, he's a doctor and he vowed to help people.
Downstairs there is Mrs. Mackenzie, the horrid housekeeper and cook. She's nasty to everyone, even her own staff. She rules the kitchen with an iron fist and resents Ellie's ladies intruding. I really think she's capable of murder but why murder a guest and not the host? Henderson, the lazy footman, is a good candidate for murderer. He was around, serving at the table, he turned the lights back on and seems like a suspicious person. Henderson is not to be trusted. Lizzie, the maid, is very sweet. She's shy and timid but bonds with Polly. I suppose she was once like Polly and still is around Mrs. Mackenzie. Lizzie is kind to the younger girl and helps Polly grow while Polly helps Lizzie gain confidence and shows the other maid kindness.
Other new characters include Drummond, from the village, the boat rower. He's always draped in dead animals and has a dour disposition- unless he's handsomely paid in food and coins. Drummond turned out to be a comical character. Constable Magoon is an ineffectual idiot. He barely holds on to the contents of his stomach when confronted with a dead body and doesn't really do any assessment of the situation. He hands the task off to Inspector Lockhart, who isn't much better. Lockhart is gruff, tough and suspicious of foreigners. He's arrogant and possibly corrupt. Lockhart thinks this is an open and shut case and doesn't want to hear anything different. Officer Stanton seems to be following in Lockhart's arrogant wake. Finally, DCI Hugh Seldon appears on the scene! He's a much better detective and good friend to Ellie. Is that all they are? Friends? Hmm... He's nearly dead from overwork and exhaustion yet he came all the way to Scotland, across the monster-filled loch in the cold to help Ellie. I like their relationship very much but I wish they'd talk about the dead wife bombshell! How long was he married? How did she die? They didn't have children did they? He's finally seeing how sharp Ellie is and learning to respect her sleuthing even if he doesn't like it.
I look forward to the next installment!
*****************************Reread June 2022***************************
I remembered this one perfectly, at least whodunit anyway. I forgot why specifically though. I also remembered some of the dramatic conclusion. The only thing I have to add to my original review is "the ladies" are cute but unbelievable. Mrs. Butters and Mrs. Trottman, Ellie's housekeeper and cook, are delightful. They're cheeky, funny and confident. They enjoy driving the oh-so-proper Clifford crazy with their antics. Trotters, the cook, is known for her amazing alcoholic concoctions, of which there are many! Ellie enjoys hanging out with them in the servants quarters and having a good time. She's more comfortable with her staff than people of her own class and treats them with the respect they deserve.
November 24, 2021
4.5 Stars
Winter, 1921 & Lady Eleanor Swift has been invited to spend Christmas at Ranburgh Castle in Scotland, by her dear friends Clarence & Wilhelmina, Baron and Baroness Ashley. Following a crackly telephone conversation all of Ellie’s staff are needed to save to day as the Ashleys' staff have left on mass or so Ellie believes. There's a mix of guests, the Laird & his son, the local doctor, cousins of Clarence & Mr Eugene Randall the third. Things are tense between the guests but during a game of wink murder the lights suddenly fail & when they come back on Mr Eugene Randall is found stabbed. The killer must be in the castle… and when Clarence is arrested, Mina begs Eleanor to investigate. Determined not to let her friend down, Eleanor sets about questioning the remaining partygoers. Then someone else dies.
This is the eighth book in the series & it could easily be read on its own. I’ve loved the whole series & this is a lovely seasonal addition. Once again Ellie is intrepid whilst being added by the ever faithful Clifford & High arrives to help also. There are plenty of red herrings & twists & turns before the villain is revealed. Ellie also discovers more about her parents as well as Scottish folklore & her nursing skills are needed when the killer tries to take another life. I love how we are gradually finding out more about Ellie’s past & I love the relationship with Hugh A well written engrossing cosy mystery, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I had two unanswered questions what was in the satchel & how does the Rolls get back to Henley Hall?
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Winter, 1921 & Lady Eleanor Swift has been invited to spend Christmas at Ranburgh Castle in Scotland, by her dear friends Clarence & Wilhelmina, Baron and Baroness Ashley. Following a crackly telephone conversation all of Ellie’s staff are needed to save to day as the Ashleys' staff have left on mass or so Ellie believes. There's a mix of guests, the Laird & his son, the local doctor, cousins of Clarence & Mr Eugene Randall the third. Things are tense between the guests but during a game of wink murder the lights suddenly fail & when they come back on Mr Eugene Randall is found stabbed. The killer must be in the castle… and when Clarence is arrested, Mina begs Eleanor to investigate. Determined not to let her friend down, Eleanor sets about questioning the remaining partygoers. Then someone else dies.
This is the eighth book in the series & it could easily be read on its own. I’ve loved the whole series & this is a lovely seasonal addition. Once again Ellie is intrepid whilst being added by the ever faithful Clifford & High arrives to help also. There are plenty of red herrings & twists & turns before the villain is revealed. Ellie also discovers more about her parents as well as Scottish folklore & her nursing skills are needed when the killer tries to take another life. I love how we are gradually finding out more about Ellie’s past & I love the relationship with Hugh A well written engrossing cosy mystery, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I had two unanswered questions what was in the satchel & how does the Rolls get back to Henley Hall?
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 28, 2021
'Well, it's going to be a lot of fun. Up in Scotland. All of us together.'
Clifford gave his customary bow from the shoulders. 'My lady, at the risk of offering a contrary opinion, no - it is going to be woefully disagreeable.'
This time, Eleanor is invited to a big Christmas party in a remote castle in Scotland by her friends Lord and Lady Ashley. Unfortunately for the Ashleys, their castle is in the Presbyterian heartlands where Christmas celebrations are frowned upon and so her staff refuse to work. So Ellie, Clifford and the whole staff are brought up to Scotland to save the day. Hurrah. Of course, this being Ellie Swift, murder is never far away and when the lights go out during dinner and a guest is stabbed in the back she, once again, must set out to find the truth when the local plods arrest the wrong person. And when Clifford invites Hugh Seldon, on rest leave from his detective job, up to help them things get even more complicated as the pair are left having to finally confront their will-they-won't-they romance.
I love this series, which never takes itself too seriously and isn't afraid to be, well let's be honest, more than slightly preposterous. Oddball characters, idiot local policemen, scandalous secrets and, because we are in Scotland, some dodgy Scottish vernacular - everything is here! At its heart, though, is just a sense of fun and warmth, as Ellie - having lost her parents and uncle - now finds a family in her wonderful staff. Perfect reading for a dark winter's night. 4 stars and a mince pie!
Clifford gave his customary bow from the shoulders. 'My lady, at the risk of offering a contrary opinion, no - it is going to be woefully disagreeable.'
This time, Eleanor is invited to a big Christmas party in a remote castle in Scotland by her friends Lord and Lady Ashley. Unfortunately for the Ashleys, their castle is in the Presbyterian heartlands where Christmas celebrations are frowned upon and so her staff refuse to work. So Ellie, Clifford and the whole staff are brought up to Scotland to save the day. Hurrah. Of course, this being Ellie Swift, murder is never far away and when the lights go out during dinner and a guest is stabbed in the back she, once again, must set out to find the truth when the local plods arrest the wrong person. And when Clifford invites Hugh Seldon, on rest leave from his detective job, up to help them things get even more complicated as the pair are left having to finally confront their will-they-won't-they romance.
I love this series, which never takes itself too seriously and isn't afraid to be, well let's be honest, more than slightly preposterous. Oddball characters, idiot local policemen, scandalous secrets and, because we are in Scotland, some dodgy Scottish vernacular - everything is here! At its heart, though, is just a sense of fun and warmth, as Ellie - having lost her parents and uncle - now finds a family in her wonderful staff. Perfect reading for a dark winter's night. 4 stars and a mince pie!
November 27, 2021
Death on a Winter's Day is the 8th instalment in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series, set in the 1920s. The author's portrayal of Ellie delights me with every book and I love that Ellie's strong-willed, down-to-earth, intelligent, and possesses a wicked sense of humour. Again, a real draw of these tales book for me is the wonderful relationship between Ellie and Clifford and their delightful repartée. After seven books, (I missed book 2 for some reason) the characters are like friends and it is a real pleasure to spend time with them. The mystery itself was pretty good and the perpetrator was kept under wraps aided by the clever twists. Death on a Winter's Day was comfortably paced, compulsive and once again, Verity Bright's highly addictive storytelling really worked for me. I am eager to read the next book in the series and I highly recommend this one. A super, refreshing tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
November 24, 2021
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
Christmas is canceled! Not if Lady Eleanor Swift has a say on it! Death on a winter’s day is book 8 in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery Series and it’s still as fresh as book 1!
Lady Eleanor, Clifford and all the Henley Hall staff travel to a remote castle in Scotland to spend the holidays with some friends, but after an innocent game of Wink turns deadly with a real corpse, things will go rather unchristmassy quite fast. Will Ellie and Clifford uncover the murderer this time?
You betcha! There has come a point in this series in which I just consider the murder mystery a secondary element of the story. Once again, the real appeal of the book to me is in its characters. Ellie, Clifford, Seldon…I would gladly read pages and pages of Lady Eleanor having secret celebrations with all the members of her household. I love how they feel like a family, and it’s always a delight to spend time with them.
Ellie is as quirky and free spirited as usual and Clifford kept imparting small doses of wisdom laced with dry humor that I always find so funny.
Ellie’s personal storyline has moved forward significantly and I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for her in future installments. I’m curious to see if this new situation will affect somehow her relationship with Clifford.
It’s always nice to see these characters out of Henley Hall. I’ve never been to Scotland but after reading some of the descriptions and tales described here I would fly there in a moment’s time.
The mystery was good and the resolution had more action than usual and it included some ties with Ellie’s parents’ story.
Perfect story for Christmas to read beside a cozy fire and a cup of hot chocolate (with a splash of whisky. We’re in Scotland, after all!).
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Christmas is canceled! Not if Lady Eleanor Swift has a say on it! Death on a winter’s day is book 8 in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery Series and it’s still as fresh as book 1!
Lady Eleanor, Clifford and all the Henley Hall staff travel to a remote castle in Scotland to spend the holidays with some friends, but after an innocent game of Wink turns deadly with a real corpse, things will go rather unchristmassy quite fast. Will Ellie and Clifford uncover the murderer this time?
You betcha! There has come a point in this series in which I just consider the murder mystery a secondary element of the story. Once again, the real appeal of the book to me is in its characters. Ellie, Clifford, Seldon…I would gladly read pages and pages of Lady Eleanor having secret celebrations with all the members of her household. I love how they feel like a family, and it’s always a delight to spend time with them.
Ellie is as quirky and free spirited as usual and Clifford kept imparting small doses of wisdom laced with dry humor that I always find so funny.
Ellie’s personal storyline has moved forward significantly and I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for her in future installments. I’m curious to see if this new situation will affect somehow her relationship with Clifford.
It’s always nice to see these characters out of Henley Hall. I’ve never been to Scotland but after reading some of the descriptions and tales described here I would fly there in a moment’s time.
The mystery was good and the resolution had more action than usual and it included some ties with Ellie’s parents’ story.
Perfect story for Christmas to read beside a cozy fire and a cup of hot chocolate (with a splash of whisky. We’re in Scotland, after all!).
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2021
‘Death On A Winter’s Day’ is a festive, joyous cosy crime story that just makes me feel all fuzzy. Yes, it's about crime but it's the main characters we have grown to love that makes this series. Although, I have to say I loved that the setting moved to Scotland! This is the 8th book in the Lady Swift series but you can pick this up as a standalone very easily. I do urge you to read the whole series as they are a complete riot! They have that balance of dark and light balanced to perfection - murder and humour with great characterisation!
I adored this book - such a shocker that I am going to wax lyrical about this series again! I lucked out by reading this when I was on holiday in Appin last week and it felt as if I had actually stepped into the locus of this book!
I could actually see this view from my window! How appropriate is that? Although Verity might not have taken inspiration from this location it felt so authentic to me.
In this outing, Eleanor and the gang find themselves in Scotland for Christmas. But alas, the host's staff have refused to work Christmas day as they are Presbyterian’s and think that celebrating it is a sin. So Eleanor offers her staff’s services and off they all trot to the back of beyond. Whilst playing the after-dinner game of ‘wink’ one of the guests is murdered and it's up to Eleanor and Clifford to work out who the murderer was as the local police staff are useless! Where is Hugh when you need him?!
The one bit of this book I was jumping up and down with joy is the ending! Let's just say many fans are going to be very happy. As usual, the character’s were great and I liked the addition of Lizzie.
I really hope you pick this one up as it's a great series!
I adored this book - such a shocker that I am going to wax lyrical about this series again! I lucked out by reading this when I was on holiday in Appin last week and it felt as if I had actually stepped into the locus of this book!
I could actually see this view from my window! How appropriate is that? Although Verity might not have taken inspiration from this location it felt so authentic to me.
In this outing, Eleanor and the gang find themselves in Scotland for Christmas. But alas, the host's staff have refused to work Christmas day as they are Presbyterian’s and think that celebrating it is a sin. So Eleanor offers her staff’s services and off they all trot to the back of beyond. Whilst playing the after-dinner game of ‘wink’ one of the guests is murdered and it's up to Eleanor and Clifford to work out who the murderer was as the local police staff are useless! Where is Hugh when you need him?!
The one bit of this book I was jumping up and down with joy is the ending! Let's just say many fans are going to be very happy. As usual, the character’s were great and I liked the addition of Lizzie.
I really hope you pick this one up as it's a great series!
November 26, 2021
Christmas in Scotland. In a castle. It should be rather enjoyable. Well, when Lady Eleanor Swift finds that her friends' staff refuse to prepare for Christmas, her staff willingly agrees to accompany her to perform duties that should make Christmas enjoyable. As always, Eleanor's closest comrade is her butler Clifford. He was her uncle's erstwhile butler, and now he is proving to be quite loyal to her. Of course, her bulldog Gladstone is along for the trip.
At what starts off as a boring dinner early after they arrive, they decide on a party game. However, things go terribly wrong when a visiting American, Mr. Eugene Randall, is found dead with a dirk in his back. Of course, Eleanor not only wants answers, but with the rather inept officers who barely begin the investigation, she relies on her finely honed skills as an amateur detective. With Clifford by her side, along with his keen sense of observation, Eleanor begins to dig for answers. Oh do they need answers, because the killer soon strikes again.
The facts are fairly clear. There was a dinner party at the castle. The baron and his wife, along with their guests, are all suspects. Eleanor begins looking for clues, and is determined to unmask the killer so that Christmas dinner can take place.
What an enjoyable addition to a series that is close to my heart. I love Eleanor as she has recently stepped into the role of a Lady, and how she defies convention repeatedly, all while Clifford strives to keep her in line. The time period, 1920s England, is terrific for this lovely series. Not only does Eleanor prove to be the perfect protagonist for these stories, but I love the slow brewing romance between her and detective chief inspector Seldon and how he makes an appearance in this novel. I am already looking forward to reading the next book in this series, A Royal Murder, set for release in March.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
At what starts off as a boring dinner early after they arrive, they decide on a party game. However, things go terribly wrong when a visiting American, Mr. Eugene Randall, is found dead with a dirk in his back. Of course, Eleanor not only wants answers, but with the rather inept officers who barely begin the investigation, she relies on her finely honed skills as an amateur detective. With Clifford by her side, along with his keen sense of observation, Eleanor begins to dig for answers. Oh do they need answers, because the killer soon strikes again.
The facts are fairly clear. There was a dinner party at the castle. The baron and his wife, along with their guests, are all suspects. Eleanor begins looking for clues, and is determined to unmask the killer so that Christmas dinner can take place.
What an enjoyable addition to a series that is close to my heart. I love Eleanor as she has recently stepped into the role of a Lady, and how she defies convention repeatedly, all while Clifford strives to keep her in line. The time period, 1920s England, is terrific for this lovely series. Not only does Eleanor prove to be the perfect protagonist for these stories, but I love the slow brewing romance between her and detective chief inspector Seldon and how he makes an appearance in this novel. I am already looking forward to reading the next book in this series, A Royal Murder, set for release in March.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
November 28, 2021
If historical cosy murder mystery is what you read,
I'm sure this is one that's just what you need!
When Lady Eleanor Swift's plans nearly get changed
Her staff travelling with her to help is then arranged.
They'll spend the festive season in a Scottish castle
Where the present servants are causing hassle!
With the Baron and Baroness Ashley is where they'll stay
Working together to save their Christmas Day.
The party there should really be fun
But with arguments and ill feelings what will be done?
Playing a game to help them all get along
What could spoil things by going wrong?
A guest is stabbed when the lights went out.
Ellie needs to find out by whom, there is no doubt
With her butler there to help her in her quest
Whilst trying to protect her, he'll do his best.
Together this intrepid duo the killer will seek
Despite the conditions there turning bleak.
This is a fabulous series in which this is book eight
With a heroine whose new role was caused by fate.
She's an independent and feisty lady who
Doesn't always do as others expect her to!
It is great to catch up on her and others I've got to know
I highly recommend you give them a go!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
I'm sure this is one that's just what you need!
When Lady Eleanor Swift's plans nearly get changed
Her staff travelling with her to help is then arranged.
They'll spend the festive season in a Scottish castle
Where the present servants are causing hassle!
With the Baron and Baroness Ashley is where they'll stay
Working together to save their Christmas Day.
The party there should really be fun
But with arguments and ill feelings what will be done?
Playing a game to help them all get along
What could spoil things by going wrong?
A guest is stabbed when the lights went out.
Ellie needs to find out by whom, there is no doubt
With her butler there to help her in her quest
Whilst trying to protect her, he'll do his best.
Together this intrepid duo the killer will seek
Despite the conditions there turning bleak.
This is a fabulous series in which this is book eight
With a heroine whose new role was caused by fate.
She's an independent and feisty lady who
Doesn't always do as others expect her to!
It is great to catch up on her and others I've got to know
I highly recommend you give them a go!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
May 12, 2023
I love this series. It's one of my all-time favourite, light, fun easy-reading murder mystery series.
I adore Lady Swift. She's smart and funny, charming and capable and she is totally unconventional having not grown up in England, but rather travelling solo around the world and becoming thoughtful and understanding of different things than most members of the British aristocracy have. It makes her a perfect foil for all of the entrenched rules most of her class follow without thought so she's constantly not doing what people expect of her and it's a delight!
The supporting cast of characters are just as delightful as Elena is, especially Clifford the butler, who's also much more than he appears to be. The interplay between Elena and Clifford is absolutely hilarious in every book and is one of my favourite aspects of this series.
I really just love everything about this series and enjoy each next book just as much as the last.
Format note: I listen to this series on audio, and the narrator is fabulous! She nails Elena's personality to a "T" and brings all the other characters unique voices and personalities as well. I feel like all the characters are real people and good friends that I enjoy each new visit with. If you like audio books, I highly recommend Lady Swift as a good series to listen to.
I adore Lady Swift. She's smart and funny, charming and capable and she is totally unconventional having not grown up in England, but rather travelling solo around the world and becoming thoughtful and understanding of different things than most members of the British aristocracy have. It makes her a perfect foil for all of the entrenched rules most of her class follow without thought so she's constantly not doing what people expect of her and it's a delight!
The supporting cast of characters are just as delightful as Elena is, especially Clifford the butler, who's also much more than he appears to be. The interplay between Elena and Clifford is absolutely hilarious in every book and is one of my favourite aspects of this series.
I really just love everything about this series and enjoy each next book just as much as the last.
Format note: I listen to this series on audio, and the narrator is fabulous! She nails Elena's personality to a "T" and brings all the other characters unique voices and personalities as well. I feel like all the characters are real people and good friends that I enjoy each new visit with. If you like audio books, I highly recommend Lady Swift as a good series to listen to.
July 22, 2024
3 stars.
Ellie is invited to spend Christmas at a Scottish Castle with a couple she befriended in a previous book. When she learned that the castle staff is quitting because they don't celebrate Christmas, she asked her household staff to accompany her to Scotland to help out for Christmas.
At dinner on the first night, they were playing a parlor game when the lights went out. When they came back on, one of the guests is found dead with a dagger in his back. When the local police arrested her host for the crime, their hostess asks for Ellie's help to find the real killer.
Interestingly, Clifford played cupid in this book by asking Hugh to come to Scotland, ostensibly to help Ellie and we have quite a climatic episode in this book and what appears to be a new understanding between Hugh and Ellie. I'm keen to see what happens next.
Ellie is invited to spend Christmas at a Scottish Castle with a couple she befriended in a previous book. When she learned that the castle staff is quitting because they don't celebrate Christmas, she asked her household staff to accompany her to Scotland to help out for Christmas.
At dinner on the first night, they were playing a parlor game when the lights went out. When they came back on, one of the guests is found dead with a dagger in his back. When the local police arrested her host for the crime, their hostess asks for Ellie's help to find the real killer.
Interestingly, Clifford played cupid in this book by asking Hugh to come to Scotland, ostensibly to help Ellie and we have quite a climatic episode in this book and what appears to be a new understanding between Hugh and Ellie. I'm keen to see what happens next.
May 19, 2022
Lady Eleanor is quickly becoming my favorite heroine. This is book 8 in A Lady Eleanor Swift series and is set around the Christmas holiday in 1920's England. Eleanor, her bulldog, Gladstone and her entire staff set off to Scotland to celebrate with friends. When the host is arrested for murder she must investigate to set him free. All your favorites are here including a certain police investigator. Can be read as a stand alone but don't miss any of the previous great stories. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 29, 2021
I am SO fond of this series and the characters in it. In fact, the characters are what really make this a wonderful set of tales!
In this instalment, Ellie and Clifford are again faced with the puzzle of solving another murder, and they manage to show just how adept they are at this as they have ventured outside of Buckinghamshire and into the freezing Scottish Highlands.
I was so glad that Hugh made an appearance, and I cannot wait to read more about their story.
In this instalment, Ellie and Clifford are again faced with the puzzle of solving another murder, and they manage to show just how adept they are at this as they have ventured outside of Buckinghamshire and into the freezing Scottish Highlands.
I was so glad that Hugh made an appearance, and I cannot wait to read more about their story.
December 21, 2021
One of my favourite books this year!
A cozy murder mystery set in the 1920s. Was gripped to begin with, with great characters and engaging plot twists.
When I started reading this book had no idea this was from series, but it easy to pick up both the storyline and the characters.
Can’t wait to read the rest Lady Swifts adventures!🕵️♀️
A cozy murder mystery set in the 1920s. Was gripped to begin with, with great characters and engaging plot twists.
When I started reading this book had no idea this was from series, but it easy to pick up both the storyline and the characters.
Can’t wait to read the rest Lady Swifts adventures!🕵️♀️
September 29, 2022
Another murder of course, this time in Scotland!
Lady Swift and her entourage spend Christmas in a Scottish castle, in freezing cold weather and of course there's a murder!
Very enjoyable and cozy yet shivering mystery.
Clifford, the ever present butler, has many resourceful items up his sleeves and in his pockets and anywhere else he can stash things.
Eleanor meets an amazing group of characters as she spends Christmas with her friends the Baron and Baroness Ashley. She's constantly freezing and often soaked by the water of the Loch yet she still manages to find out who the killer is.
But, of course!
Lady Swift and her entourage spend Christmas in a Scottish castle, in freezing cold weather and of course there's a murder!
Very enjoyable and cozy yet shivering mystery.
Clifford, the ever present butler, has many resourceful items up his sleeves and in his pockets and anywhere else he can stash things.
Eleanor meets an amazing group of characters as she spends Christmas with her friends the Baron and Baroness Ashley. She's constantly freezing and often soaked by the water of the Loch yet she still manages to find out who the killer is.
But, of course!
February 6, 2024
There is improvement!
While some of the problems encountered in the first book in the series are still there, the mystery is a good one and the secondary characters, as unrealistic as they are, have gained dimension and are likable. The real let down, again, is the main character, clueless, fragile to the point of being farcical and utterly arrogant.
While some of the problems encountered in the first book in the series are still there, the mystery is a good one and the secondary characters, as unrealistic as they are, have gained dimension and are likable. The real let down, again, is the main character, clueless, fragile to the point of being farcical and utterly arrogant.
December 17, 2023
Death on a winters day: een heerlijk mystery. Met als ondertitel: a totally addictive cozy murder mystery.
Maarreh… zo cozy is het niet met een moord tijdens het kerstdiner. Lady Swift is een vermakelijke en stoere vrouw. Heerlijk boek om te lezen met een verrassende ontknoping.
Maarreh… zo cozy is het niet met een moord tijdens het kerstdiner. Lady Swift is een vermakelijke en stoere vrouw. Heerlijk boek om te lezen met een verrassende ontknoping.
October 27, 2024
This is a review about the series as a whole, rather than a specific book review about each book.
I am enjoying this series somewhat. I do find somethings rather frustrating at times, but overall, I like how things are developing through the whole series and I do want answers to certain questions that still have to be answered. It's a pleasant, not taxing on brain way to spend a couple of hours.
Eleanor. Right. She does not read as a 28 something woman, who eventually hits her 30's as the series progresses. Her character background doesn't fit the character we are presented with. I know she has been somewhat spoiled and is pampered, but she reads as a teenager to me, especially as all her exploring should've made her more mature. She has been travelling the world for 10 years alone. I repeat, travelling alone as a woman in the 1920's. That wouldn't have been easy and you'd need your wits about you. It's not like she's been locked in a manor for 15 years and is finally being released into the world alas Rapunzel. I also find her general horniness, both hilarious and frustrating, especially when she's falling for people she's just met and having romancey moments at the most worst times when she should be focusing on something much more serious. Though I do know it's part of her character that she falls hard over nothing and has a habit of rushing into romances with people she barely knows. She knows this about herself, yet does it anyway, she never really grows in this respect througout the story. I also didn't like that she turned into blushing, awkward giggling girl around males she finds attractive. It's stereotypical and once again, it's reminisce of a teenager. You'd think at 28, you can be around an attractive male and be fine. Most woman I know can. She just doesn't come across as a 28-30 year woman to me. I do sigh when she's like a bull in a china shop where a delicate hand was needed. She sometimes makes life hard for herself though once again, I know that's one huge part of her character traits, but she can come across quite rude at times. But I don't dislike her and I don't mind having her as the main character, I do wish we would have some more character growth within the story though.
Also, I know talk of food is a somewhat part of the cozy genre, but it gets tiring that Eleanor eats six heavily calorie meals a day, yet always keeps her figure. It's unrealistic and is a pet peeve of mine, as it's a mythical dream that is used as a stick to beat woman with when they can't achieve it.
I really like Clifford (despite the grating chivalry misogyny and being all proper which can get tiring. And I dislike how he's always reminding the ladies that because Eleanor has a title, that means she's better, worth more and special than them. All people are equal on the whole. A title doesn't mean much in this day and age. I know it's somewhat suitable/normal for the time period, but I think the authors can easily not focus and push this specific idea as much as they do. I know Clifford truly believes that she's better but it's getting old, especially when he pushes it on the staff several times a book.) and the rest of the staff though Clifford should be a bit easier on them, haha. I mean, they're doing several peoples worth of work a day by themselves. And one of them is 15 and started working at 11. (Imagine having an 11 year old as a maid/cleaner/everything else.) Dude doesn't know how to relax and chill. And Gladstone is my favourite. He's a cutie and I love his addition to the story. He makes a cute, fun aspect to the books with his charming personality of constantly stealing shoes and his penchant for digging.
Also, Polly started working at the manor at 11. In 1918, you had to stay in school until you were 14! so what's with that?!? Breaks the immersion. I don't understand why they couldn't have her at like 17? It would change nothing. She can still be a clumsy, young, silly girl at 17. You wouldn't have to change a thing about her character as it was written. I don't understand why the author chose her to come to the manor at 11, and be 15 within the stories narrative. Also, within the books I've read (13 as I type this sentence), we've had 2 Eleanor's birthdays, but Polly still has remained 15 somehow?
General Discussions about the series as a whole, including my thoughts on Hugh so probable minor spoilers;
I am enjoying this series somewhat. I do find somethings rather frustrating at times, but overall, I like how things are developing through the whole series and I do want answers to certain questions that still have to be answered. It's a pleasant, not taxing on brain way to spend a couple of hours.
Eleanor. Right. She does not read as a 28 something woman, who eventually hits her 30's as the series progresses. Her character background doesn't fit the character we are presented with. I know she has been somewhat spoiled and is pampered, but she reads as a teenager to me, especially as all her exploring should've made her more mature. She has been travelling the world for 10 years alone. I repeat, travelling alone as a woman in the 1920's. That wouldn't have been easy and you'd need your wits about you. It's not like she's been locked in a manor for 15 years and is finally being released into the world alas Rapunzel. I also find her general horniness, both hilarious and frustrating, especially when she's falling for people she's just met and having romancey moments at the most worst times when she should be focusing on something much more serious. Though I do know it's part of her character that she falls hard over nothing and has a habit of rushing into romances with people she barely knows. She knows this about herself, yet does it anyway, she never really grows in this respect througout the story. I also didn't like that she turned into blushing, awkward giggling girl around males she finds attractive. It's stereotypical and once again, it's reminisce of a teenager. You'd think at 28, you can be around an attractive male and be fine. Most woman I know can. She just doesn't come across as a 28-30 year woman to me. I do sigh when she's like a bull in a china shop where a delicate hand was needed. She sometimes makes life hard for herself though once again, I know that's one huge part of her character traits, but she can come across quite rude at times. But I don't dislike her and I don't mind having her as the main character, I do wish we would have some more character growth within the story though.
Also, I know talk of food is a somewhat part of the cozy genre, but it gets tiring that Eleanor eats six heavily calorie meals a day, yet always keeps her figure. It's unrealistic and is a pet peeve of mine, as it's a mythical dream that is used as a stick to beat woman with when they can't achieve it.
I really like Clifford (despite the grating chivalry misogyny and being all proper which can get tiring. And I dislike how he's always reminding the ladies that because Eleanor has a title, that means she's better, worth more and special than them. All people are equal on the whole. A title doesn't mean much in this day and age. I know it's somewhat suitable/normal for the time period, but I think the authors can easily not focus and push this specific idea as much as they do. I know Clifford truly believes that she's better but it's getting old, especially when he pushes it on the staff several times a book.) and the rest of the staff though Clifford should be a bit easier on them, haha. I mean, they're doing several peoples worth of work a day by themselves. And one of them is 15 and started working at 11. (Imagine having an 11 year old as a maid/cleaner/everything else.) Dude doesn't know how to relax and chill. And Gladstone is my favourite. He's a cutie and I love his addition to the story. He makes a cute, fun aspect to the books with his charming personality of constantly stealing shoes and his penchant for digging.
Also, Polly started working at the manor at 11. In 1918, you had to stay in school until you were 14! so what's with that?!? Breaks the immersion. I don't understand why they couldn't have her at like 17? It would change nothing. She can still be a clumsy, young, silly girl at 17. You wouldn't have to change a thing about her character as it was written. I don't understand why the author chose her to come to the manor at 11, and be 15 within the stories narrative. Also, within the books I've read (13 as I type this sentence), we've had 2 Eleanor's birthdays, but Polly still has remained 15 somehow?
General Discussions about the series as a whole, including my thoughts on Hugh so probable minor spoilers;
April 8, 2025
The eighth book in this series, and the emotions continue to run high. Of the two I read back to back, I liked the mystery in this better. On an impulse, Lady Swift, who is yet to host her own gathering, decides to go to Scotland for a Christmas celebration.
Once there, Eleanor realises that she has miscalculated all her moves and that she does not know as much as she would like of the people to whom she has volunteered her staff for the duration. Scotland at Christmas is dark and dismal, not least because the area does not celebrate Christmas the way some people are used to. The weather does not help either.
The foulest man at the table is found stabbed after a chance blackout (or was it one?). The police are not as interested as they should be and swiftly pin it on the wrong person (or so Lady Swift assumes). Her investigative skills have been honed well, and she sets out her dedicated list to figure things out. A special Chief Inspector makes his entry after the second half and plays a significant role in bringing things to a close. There is also a lot of movement in their 'courtship', which laid a pretty solid foundation for the next book.
would not recommend reading this series without having first read the beginning ones. One or two books in between can be skipped, but not more because otherwise, it would be hard to make sense of some of the background plots.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and the previous works in the same series.
Once there, Eleanor realises that she has miscalculated all her moves and that she does not know as much as she would like of the people to whom she has volunteered her staff for the duration. Scotland at Christmas is dark and dismal, not least because the area does not celebrate Christmas the way some people are used to. The weather does not help either.
The foulest man at the table is found stabbed after a chance blackout (or was it one?). The police are not as interested as they should be and swiftly pin it on the wrong person (or so Lady Swift assumes). Her investigative skills have been honed well, and she sets out her dedicated list to figure things out. A special Chief Inspector makes his entry after the second half and plays a significant role in bringing things to a close. There is also a lot of movement in their 'courtship', which laid a pretty solid foundation for the next book.
would not recommend reading this series without having first read the beginning ones. One or two books in between can be skipped, but not more because otherwise, it would be hard to make sense of some of the background plots.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and the previous works in the same series.
November 3, 2021
How could I have not heard of this series nor these authors. I had such a good time reading this cozy. I love my new favorite heroine, and amateur detective, Lady Eleanor (Ellie) and her faithful butler, Clifford. If you are looking for a book to make you enjoy a good cozy mystery this is it. To the point, I know have to read the previous 7 books in the series. This is book 8 and yes def a stand alone.
Lady Eleanor is invited to the Scottish highlands to celebrate Christmas and all hell breaks loose. She hasn't left yet, when their is a crisis, the very Protestant highlands DO NOT CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS, in fact it is a normal work day, except for attending mass. The staff at the Castle Ranburgh except for 3 members, have said they will not work, so Lady Eleanor asks her staff to step in - which they gladly do. On Christmas Eve, there is a murder and it's up to Lady Eleanor and Clifford to discover who the culprit is and why. The Scottish detective who is investigating is extremely biased and from the start arrests Lord Ashley.
I loved how DCI Hugh comes in to help Lady Eleanor and how the relationship progresses.
I def finished this book with that happy feeling you get when you read a book you have enjoyed. I can't wait to read the other books, and now I can't wait to read book 9.
Thank you NetGalley!!!!!!
Lady Eleanor is invited to the Scottish highlands to celebrate Christmas and all hell breaks loose. She hasn't left yet, when their is a crisis, the very Protestant highlands DO NOT CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS, in fact it is a normal work day, except for attending mass. The staff at the Castle Ranburgh except for 3 members, have said they will not work, so Lady Eleanor asks her staff to step in - which they gladly do. On Christmas Eve, there is a murder and it's up to Lady Eleanor and Clifford to discover who the culprit is and why. The Scottish detective who is investigating is extremely biased and from the start arrests Lord Ashley.
I loved how DCI Hugh comes in to help Lady Eleanor and how the relationship progresses.
I def finished this book with that happy feeling you get when you read a book you have enjoyed. I can't wait to read the other books, and now I can't wait to read book 9.
Thank you NetGalley!!!!!!
March 6, 2022
There is a chaotic start to the book, which Eleanor should have thought twice about before getting involved and dumping her loyal staff into hell. The group of Christmas guests was quite typical of this type of novel, none of which would any sensible person want to be alone with for more than a minute. Unfortunately I didn’t want to read about then either. Then came the murder and it just got worse when the officious idiot inspector arrived. The only highlight in the first half of the book was Eleanor’s staff Christmas party.
The one good thing about the book, was I didn’t have to put up with Chief Inspector Seldon, then he appeared! I really should stop reading these books.
The one good thing about the book, was I didn’t have to put up with Chief Inspector Seldon, then he appeared! I really should stop reading these books.
November 21, 2024
‘Clifford! One’s aged aunt traditionally plays the self-appointed family matchmaker. Not,’ she said, pointing a finger at him, ‘one’s butler.’
Eleanor is too obsessed with dessert and food!
Eleanor is too obsessed with dessert and food!
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