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Lady Eleanor Swift #9
A Royal Murder
At the royal boat race there are beautiful barges, plenty of bunting, a handsome prince and… is that a body? Lady Swift is on the case!
Spring, 1923. One-time adventurer and now amateur sleuth Lady Eleanor Swift is attending the annual royal regatta with her new pal Tipsy Fitzroy. Tipsy has Eleanor trussed up like a debutante in a new dress, determined to turn her into a proper society lady. Even Eleanor’s favourite companion, Gladstone the bulldog, has a new outfit for the occasion.
But the sparkling prize-giving ceremony is interrupted when the devilishly handsome host gulps his glass of champagne on stage and collapses to the floor. The victim is none other than the king’s cousin, Lord Xander Taylor-Howard. He was rumoured to be entangled in a rather dubious gambling ring, but did someone kill him instead of collecting his debt? Or was this simply an ill-timed tragic accident? Either way, a right royal scandal is afoot…
Sir Percival, the head of the royal police, asks Eleanor for her help investigating. He’d do anything to keep the story under wraps. She knows it will get her into hot water with a certain dapper Detective Seldon, but she’s determined to see justice done. However, as she digs deeper, she learns Lord Taylor-Howard was hiding more than one murky secret. It isn’t until she takes a closer look at the unfortunate royal’s shattered champagne flute that she stumbles upon just the clue she needs. But can she reel in the killer before her ship is sunk too?
A warm and witty 1920s mystery that cozy fans will just adore. Addictive reading for fans of T E Kinsey, Lee Strauss and Agatha Christie.
Spring, 1923. One-time adventurer and now amateur sleuth Lady Eleanor Swift is attending the annual royal regatta with her new pal Tipsy Fitzroy. Tipsy has Eleanor trussed up like a debutante in a new dress, determined to turn her into a proper society lady. Even Eleanor’s favourite companion, Gladstone the bulldog, has a new outfit for the occasion.
But the sparkling prize-giving ceremony is interrupted when the devilishly handsome host gulps his glass of champagne on stage and collapses to the floor. The victim is none other than the king’s cousin, Lord Xander Taylor-Howard. He was rumoured to be entangled in a rather dubious gambling ring, but did someone kill him instead of collecting his debt? Or was this simply an ill-timed tragic accident? Either way, a right royal scandal is afoot…
Sir Percival, the head of the royal police, asks Eleanor for her help investigating. He’d do anything to keep the story under wraps. She knows it will get her into hot water with a certain dapper Detective Seldon, but she’s determined to see justice done. However, as she digs deeper, she learns Lord Taylor-Howard was hiding more than one murky secret. It isn’t until she takes a closer look at the unfortunate royal’s shattered champagne flute that she stumbles upon just the clue she needs. But can she reel in the killer before her ship is sunk too?
A warm and witty 1920s mystery that cozy fans will just adore. Addictive reading for fans of T E Kinsey, Lee Strauss and Agatha Christie.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2022
1814 people are currently reading
503 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 133 reviews
February 8, 2022
Love this series and loved this book.
In A Royal Murder Lady Eleanor makes a new friend, Tipsy Fitzroy, who seems set upon making her over into a bright young thing. They attend an event at which a royal personage is poisoned and the excitement builds from there. Delightfully there are also a few incidents which make Hugh declare himself at last. Maybe Eleanor can keep him on point from now on!
The highlight as usual is Clifford the butler who is becoming more like James Bond every minute. His dialogues with Eleanor are hilarious. He is one of the best cosy characters I have ever met. Suffice it to say I cannot wait for the next Lady Swift adventure. They make excellent reading.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In A Royal Murder Lady Eleanor makes a new friend, Tipsy Fitzroy, who seems set upon making her over into a bright young thing. They attend an event at which a royal personage is poisoned and the excitement builds from there. Delightfully there are also a few incidents which make Hugh declare himself at last. Maybe Eleanor can keep him on point from now on!
The highlight as usual is Clifford the butler who is becoming more like James Bond every minute. His dialogues with Eleanor are hilarious. He is one of the best cosy characters I have ever met. Suffice it to say I cannot wait for the next Lady Swift adventure. They make excellent reading.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 21, 2022
Lady Eleanor Swift’s new friend Tipsy was determined to turn Eleanor into one of the ‘bright young things’ – dressing in the fashion of the day, bagging a prince – while at the royal regatta that was held annually. The spring weather in the year of 1923 was particularly mild and the champagne was flowing. But when the royal host, Lord Xander Taylor-Howard, a man of many dubious talents, dropped to the stage floor after downing his champagne, Ellie, Clifford and Detective Hugh Seldon were on the case. That was, until the royal police stepped in to avoid a scandal – Sir Percival recruited Eleanor while ousting Hugh, and there was nothing they could do about it…
Unearthing clues was Ellie’s specialty, and along with Clifford and Gladstone, of course, they managed to do just that. But the secrets Ellie was discovering were drawing danger close to her side. And Hugh along with Clifford, were concerned for her safety. Could they discover the killer before it was too late?
A Royal Murder is the 9th in A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series by Verity Bright and once again it was excellent. The usual characters played their starring roles – Clifford is perfection and the expressive Gladstone a laughable charmer. Plus the delightful staff at Henley Hall always make me laugh. All in all, A Royal Murder is another fun and entertaining cozy historical mystery which I recommend. But I also suggest starting at #1 😊
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Unearthing clues was Ellie’s specialty, and along with Clifford and Gladstone, of course, they managed to do just that. But the secrets Ellie was discovering were drawing danger close to her side. And Hugh along with Clifford, were concerned for her safety. Could they discover the killer before it was too late?
A Royal Murder is the 9th in A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series by Verity Bright and once again it was excellent. The usual characters played their starring roles – Clifford is perfection and the expressive Gladstone a laughable charmer. Plus the delightful staff at Henley Hall always make me laugh. All in all, A Royal Murder is another fun and entertaining cozy historical mystery which I recommend. But I also suggest starting at #1 😊
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2022
It's spring which means time for the annual royal regetta and a perfect excuse for Eleanor's new friend Tipsy Fitzroy to work her skills on finally turning Eleanor (much to her reluctance) into a proper society lady and finding her a 'royal beau'. The merriment soon turns into a murder investigation when a minor royal, Lord Xander Taylor Howard dies on stage during the prize giving ceremony and the head of the Royal police, Sir Percival is hell bent on making the investigation process a difficult one for Chief Inspector Seldon as his main aim is to protect the Royal family from any scandal at any cost!
Even after nine books, the series is still witty and entertaining even if the danger quotient keeps gradually increasing with each passing book. The Henley Hall entourage is an absolute hoot and it is fun to see even the serious Chief Inspector Seldon loosening up in their presence. Clifford is a genius as always and it seems Gladstone has found a new victim to pounce his friendly, dirty paws on 😂.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Verity Bright for the e-Arc of the book.
Even after nine books, the series is still witty and entertaining even if the danger quotient keeps gradually increasing with each passing book. The Henley Hall entourage is an absolute hoot and it is fun to see even the serious Chief Inspector Seldon loosening up in their presence. Clifford is a genius as always and it seems Gladstone has found a new victim to pounce his friendly, dirty paws on 😂.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Verity Bright for the e-Arc of the book.
March 7, 2022
Favorite Quotes:
I’ve only seen blue that deep in the most heavenly exotic lagoons. Those eyes could melt a nun on an iceberg.
‘I pity your guardian, since locking one’s ward in the cellar is probably frowned upon in today’s over-liberal times!’ ‘It doesn’t stop him wishing it wasn’t though,’ she said genuinely. ‘Honestly, if it wasn’t frowned on, I’d be lucky to see the light of day most weeks.’
… she tried to think of a more flattering description for him rather than “the perfect mix of everything average”, but failed.
Sir Percival’s nose is a nasal protrusion worthy of winning prizes.
Can you believe, someone once suggested I attract dead bodies like spinsters attract stray cats?
My Review:
Another lively and entertaining read from the winning husband and wife literary duo of Verity Bright. I am completely enamored with these smooth and creative wordsmiths as well as their engaging series. They never fail to come up with the most clever conundrums with generous servings of amusing humor, vibrant characters, and unpredictable head-scratching mysteries. The storylines were delightfully nuanced, smartly plotted, well-paced, curiously additive, colorfully detailed, and shrewdly contrived. I still struggle to determine if my favorite character is the lovely yet unconventional Lady Swift or Clifford, her ever prepared, indispensable, Google on legs butler. Honestly, I need more of both of them in my life and don’t want to do without either.
It has been a good while but I am adding an addition to my Brit word list that I have noted before but had never actually looked up to be sure with good shout – which is slang for a good idea.
I’ve only seen blue that deep in the most heavenly exotic lagoons. Those eyes could melt a nun on an iceberg.
‘I pity your guardian, since locking one’s ward in the cellar is probably frowned upon in today’s over-liberal times!’ ‘It doesn’t stop him wishing it wasn’t though,’ she said genuinely. ‘Honestly, if it wasn’t frowned on, I’d be lucky to see the light of day most weeks.’
… she tried to think of a more flattering description for him rather than “the perfect mix of everything average”, but failed.
Sir Percival’s nose is a nasal protrusion worthy of winning prizes.
Can you believe, someone once suggested I attract dead bodies like spinsters attract stray cats?
My Review:
Another lively and entertaining read from the winning husband and wife literary duo of Verity Bright. I am completely enamored with these smooth and creative wordsmiths as well as their engaging series. They never fail to come up with the most clever conundrums with generous servings of amusing humor, vibrant characters, and unpredictable head-scratching mysteries. The storylines were delightfully nuanced, smartly plotted, well-paced, curiously additive, colorfully detailed, and shrewdly contrived. I still struggle to determine if my favorite character is the lovely yet unconventional Lady Swift or Clifford, her ever prepared, indispensable, Google on legs butler. Honestly, I need more of both of them in my life and don’t want to do without either.
It has been a good while but I am adding an addition to my Brit word list that I have noted before but had never actually looked up to be sure with good shout – which is slang for a good idea.
March 6, 2022
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
9th installment in the Lady Eleanor Swift Series and still a fun read with a cast of lovable characters that it’s always great to meet back.
Lady Swift has a new friend, Tipsy, who has decided to make Ellie her new pet project and as Glinda said to Elphaba in Wicked “she’ll help her be popular, but she’s got an awfully long way to go!”. But Ellie resists Tipsy’s advice (well done, Ellie). The Bright Young People is not her scene, but she agrees to go with Tipsy to the Henley Regatta where she’s witness to a royal murder and soon finds herself investigating it.
The first half of the book felt a bit slow, perhaps cause Ellie and Clifford’s investigations are constricted to the requirements of the Royal Police, so the interrogations of the same suspects again and again became a bit repetitive. The second half really picked up the pace and the action increased several notches.
I love how Ellie’s character has grown since we first met her and the tight family she’s built around her trusted Clifford, the ladies of Henley Hall, Master Gladstone and Chief Inspector Seldon. I think it’s time for her relationship with Seldon to take a step forward for good! All this yes but no, taking a step forward and moving three steps back is starting to get a bit old. I’m really curious to see how Ellie manages around a serious relationship.
Although the mystery and the investigation stalled a bit at first, the resolution still delivered some surprises and, although I predicted some of it, it was still pretty satisfying.
Another enjoyable cozy mystery that will make you chuckle more than once with its unforgettable duo of sleuths.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
9th installment in the Lady Eleanor Swift Series and still a fun read with a cast of lovable characters that it’s always great to meet back.
Lady Swift has a new friend, Tipsy, who has decided to make Ellie her new pet project and as Glinda said to Elphaba in Wicked “she’ll help her be popular, but she’s got an awfully long way to go!”. But Ellie resists Tipsy’s advice (well done, Ellie). The Bright Young People is not her scene, but she agrees to go with Tipsy to the Henley Regatta where she’s witness to a royal murder and soon finds herself investigating it.
The first half of the book felt a bit slow, perhaps cause Ellie and Clifford’s investigations are constricted to the requirements of the Royal Police, so the interrogations of the same suspects again and again became a bit repetitive. The second half really picked up the pace and the action increased several notches.
I love how Ellie’s character has grown since we first met her and the tight family she’s built around her trusted Clifford, the ladies of Henley Hall, Master Gladstone and Chief Inspector Seldon. I think it’s time for her relationship with Seldon to take a step forward for good! All this yes but no, taking a step forward and moving three steps back is starting to get a bit old. I’m really curious to see how Ellie manages around a serious relationship.
Although the mystery and the investigation stalled a bit at first, the resolution still delivered some surprises and, although I predicted some of it, it was still pretty satisfying.
Another enjoyable cozy mystery that will make you chuckle more than once with its unforgettable duo of sleuths.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐
First off, Netflix, PBS,...someone needs to take note of this series and make it into a tv (mini) series! 🙌🏻 I adored the previous book in this series and again, this one hit all the marks with me. Well written. Well paced. Plenty of red herrings. Charming characters. I enjoyed the setting in the previous one a tad more. Hence the 4 stars instead of 5 like the previous book. However, this series is shaping up to be one of my all-time favorites. I can't wait to see what these characters get up to in the next book!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 4, 2022
Rating: 4.5 / 5
Believe it or not, I actually guessed who the murderer was in this one.
*claps for self*
I mean, one out of nine's not bad, right? RIGHT?!
Ahem, but anyway, this story still had twists and turns insofar as the motive went, and the cast of characters were charming enough to keep the story going--and not to mention Eleanor and Clifford's indomitable teamwork, as always!
This time it does indeed centre around a royal murder, for the 18th in line or something to the throne. A minor royal, in other words, but still with connections to the royal family. Eleanor is surprisingly engaged by the head of the royal police to investigate this time, whereas DCI Seldon is, unfortunately, cast to the side.
Part of the reason this book scored lower for me, admittedly, has to do with Eleanor and Seldon's relationship during the first half of the novel. At this point, I feel like they already both know each other so well and have gotten through so much together--especially in the last book, Death on a Winter's Day--that having them go through a contrived misunderstandings plot felt unnecessary and forced. Besides which, why CAN'T they progress past the butting heads stage? Nine books in, you'd expect they would...
Thankfully, the author resolves this at the halfway point, leaving us to enjoy all aspects of Eleanor's story in the second half undisturbed. What I especially liked was how the element of danger was very real in this book, including with a captivating car chase and both Clifford and Eleanor very much in harm's way! It's a cozy mystery, of course, so you know that nothing truly bad could ever really happen, but it still has one's heart racing regardless!
All in all, it was a great read and addition to the series, just not one that I'd put on the higher end or anything like that. Looking forward to the next one, for sure!
Believe it or not, I actually guessed who the murderer was in this one.
*claps for self*
I mean, one out of nine's not bad, right? RIGHT?!
Ahem, but anyway, this story still had twists and turns insofar as the motive went, and the cast of characters were charming enough to keep the story going--and not to mention Eleanor and Clifford's indomitable teamwork, as always!
This time it does indeed centre around a royal murder, for the 18th in line or something to the throne. A minor royal, in other words, but still with connections to the royal family. Eleanor is surprisingly engaged by the head of the royal police to investigate this time, whereas DCI Seldon is, unfortunately, cast to the side.
Part of the reason this book scored lower for me, admittedly, has to do with Eleanor and Seldon's relationship during the first half of the novel. At this point, I feel like they already both know each other so well and have gotten through so much together--especially in the last book, Death on a Winter's Day--that having them go through a contrived misunderstandings plot felt unnecessary and forced. Besides which, why CAN'T they progress past the butting heads stage? Nine books in, you'd expect they would...
Thankfully, the author resolves this at the halfway point, leaving us to enjoy all aspects of Eleanor's story in the second half undisturbed. What I especially liked was how the element of danger was very real in this book, including with a captivating car chase and both Clifford and Eleanor very much in harm's way! It's a cozy mystery, of course, so you know that nothing truly bad could ever really happen, but it still has one's heart racing regardless!
All in all, it was a great read and addition to the series, just not one that I'd put on the higher end or anything like that. Looking forward to the next one, for sure!
March 1, 2022
Lady Eleanor is no ordinary detective. She along with her team at home ably headed by her butler Clifford and with the support of Chief Detective Seldon are able to solve any crime. When a minor Royal is found murdered at the Regatta in broad view of hundreds of people, both Eleanor and Hugh realize that it is an insider job. However from the beginning the Royal Police headed by the insufferable Sir Percival is intent on side lining Seldon and very "reluctantly" drags in Lady Eleanor to conduct a discreet investigaiton into five suspects he thinks are probable murderers.
Investigations continue with Seldon silently supporting Lady Eleanor and it is only at the end, that she realises that she has been given a few red herrings and lead on a wild goose chase by the erstwhile Sir Percival for his own personal ends.
It had a very surprising twist in the tale which is always there in the series and together with Clifford the domestic troupe, the fabulous food and Gladstone all make up for fantastic light reading.
Never disappoints.
Investigations continue with Seldon silently supporting Lady Eleanor and it is only at the end, that she realises that she has been given a few red herrings and lead on a wild goose chase by the erstwhile Sir Percival for his own personal ends.
It had a very surprising twist in the tale which is always there in the series and together with Clifford the domestic troupe, the fabulous food and Gladstone all make up for fantastic light reading.
Never disappoints.
March 6, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'A Royal Murder' by Verity Bright.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Verity Bright, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th February 2022.
This is the sixth book I have read by this author. It is also the ninth book in her 'Lady Eleanor Smith Mystery' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read Verity's 'A Witness to Muder' (3rd book in the series), 'Mystery By The Sea' (5th book in the series), 'Murder At The Fair' (6th book in the series), 'A Lesson In Murder' (7th book in the series) and 'Death On A Winter's Day' (8th book in the series) which I would also recommend reading.
I was originally drawn to this book by its fantastic eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Addictive reading for fans of T E Kinsey, Lee Strauss and Agatha Christie.' I am a huge fan of Agatha Christie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Verity and if this is as good as 'A Witness To Murder', 'Mystery By The Sea', 'Murder At The Fair', 'A Lesson In Murder' and 'Death On A Winter's Day' it is sure to be an epic read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 36 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in England 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited and had holidays in England on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Verity has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Lady Eleanor Smith. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO VERITY ON YET ANOTHER PAGE TURNING SUCCESS!!
Another successful unputdownable cosy mystery by the very talented Verity Bright. I'm always a bit dubious with books based historically as I worry about not being able to 'deal' with the language used but I absolutely love how Verity has written her books. The language used is perfectly suited to the era whilst being easy to read and making it quite humorous on several occasions. The atmosphere and descriptions were perfect. The synopsis and cover also suit the storyline.
The storyline had me hooked immediately and I love the way that Eleanor and Clifford go about their detective work. There was so much going on that it kept me entertained thoroughly throughout with mystery after mystery and clue after clue. It was filled with suspense, mystery, laughter, murder, clues, deceit. tension, suspense and so much more!! It is absolutely perfect to read either curled in front of the fire or lying on a beach which not many books can achieve. I never did work out who the killer was and was completely shocked when they were discovered. A great achievement as I am a huge crime fan and tend to work out who did what quite early on, especially considering I have read so many of Verity's books yet she manages to get me everytime. The atmosphere was perfectly suited to the mystery. I also love the fact that although this is a cosy mystery it also had me in stitches of laughter in so many occasions which makes it the perfect light hearted read!!
Although this is the eighth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were all larger than life, realistic and a complete breathe of fresh air. Eleanor is an amazing character, very bubbly and certainly not your typical 'Lady', she is absolutely unique as well as a very strong female lead which is a great bonus for myself being female. I absolutely adore her relationship with Clifford along with the rest of her "staff" that she treats more like friends. The only downfall is that herself and Clifford are fictional as these are two characters I would absolutely LOVE to meet in real life!! Clifford is absolutely fantastic and I really enjoy how he makes me laugh with his diplomatic skills while being extremely sarcastic at times. It is so sweet how he has taken Eleanor under his wing and admonishes her in several occasions in his humerus ways. I loved meeting them again along with Butters, Trotters and Polly who are all larger than life with their own exceptional personalities. I cannot wait to meet them all again and see what they get up to in the next "episode".
A huge congratulations on another fantastic success Verity!!! Here's to looking forward to your next book 🥂
If you are looking for a cosy mystery that will have you laughing until your crying look no further!!!
This is exactly why you are one of my favourite authors and this is one of my favourite 'series' Verity! A page turning and unputdownable success!
Overall a fun and easy to read page turning cozy murder mystery with the perfect amount of crime and humour that will keep you turning the pages.
Genres covered in this novel include Cozy Mystery, Murder and Crime amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie and anyone looking for a very easy, page turning and enjoyable read.
317 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#ARoyalMurder #Bookouture #VerityBright #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@VerityBright @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
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Review for 'A Royal Murder' by Verity Bright.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Verity Bright, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th February 2022.
This is the sixth book I have read by this author. It is also the ninth book in her 'Lady Eleanor Smith Mystery' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read Verity's 'A Witness to Muder' (3rd book in the series), 'Mystery By The Sea' (5th book in the series), 'Murder At The Fair' (6th book in the series), 'A Lesson In Murder' (7th book in the series) and 'Death On A Winter's Day' (8th book in the series) which I would also recommend reading.
I was originally drawn to this book by its fantastic eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Addictive reading for fans of T E Kinsey, Lee Strauss and Agatha Christie.' I am a huge fan of Agatha Christie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Verity and if this is as good as 'A Witness To Murder', 'Mystery By The Sea', 'Murder At The Fair', 'A Lesson In Murder' and 'Death On A Winter's Day' it is sure to be an epic read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 36 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in England 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited and had holidays in England on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Verity has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Lady Eleanor Smith. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO VERITY ON YET ANOTHER PAGE TURNING SUCCESS!!
Another successful unputdownable cosy mystery by the very talented Verity Bright. I'm always a bit dubious with books based historically as I worry about not being able to 'deal' with the language used but I absolutely love how Verity has written her books. The language used is perfectly suited to the era whilst being easy to read and making it quite humorous on several occasions. The atmosphere and descriptions were perfect. The synopsis and cover also suit the storyline.
The storyline had me hooked immediately and I love the way that Eleanor and Clifford go about their detective work. There was so much going on that it kept me entertained thoroughly throughout with mystery after mystery and clue after clue. It was filled with suspense, mystery, laughter, murder, clues, deceit. tension, suspense and so much more!! It is absolutely perfect to read either curled in front of the fire or lying on a beach which not many books can achieve. I never did work out who the killer was and was completely shocked when they were discovered. A great achievement as I am a huge crime fan and tend to work out who did what quite early on, especially considering I have read so many of Verity's books yet she manages to get me everytime. The atmosphere was perfectly suited to the mystery. I also love the fact that although this is a cosy mystery it also had me in stitches of laughter in so many occasions which makes it the perfect light hearted read!!
Although this is the eighth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were all larger than life, realistic and a complete breathe of fresh air. Eleanor is an amazing character, very bubbly and certainly not your typical 'Lady', she is absolutely unique as well as a very strong female lead which is a great bonus for myself being female. I absolutely adore her relationship with Clifford along with the rest of her "staff" that she treats more like friends. The only downfall is that herself and Clifford are fictional as these are two characters I would absolutely LOVE to meet in real life!! Clifford is absolutely fantastic and I really enjoy how he makes me laugh with his diplomatic skills while being extremely sarcastic at times. It is so sweet how he has taken Eleanor under his wing and admonishes her in several occasions in his humerus ways. I loved meeting them again along with Butters, Trotters and Polly who are all larger than life with their own exceptional personalities. I cannot wait to meet them all again and see what they get up to in the next "episode".
A huge congratulations on another fantastic success Verity!!! Here's to looking forward to your next book 🥂
If you are looking for a cosy mystery that will have you laughing until your crying look no further!!!
This is exactly why you are one of my favourite authors and this is one of my favourite 'series' Verity! A page turning and unputdownable success!
Overall a fun and easy to read page turning cozy murder mystery with the perfect amount of crime and humour that will keep you turning the pages.
Genres covered in this novel include Cozy Mystery, Murder and Crime amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie and anyone looking for a very easy, page turning and enjoyable read.
317 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#ARoyalMurder #Bookouture #VerityBright #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@VerityBright @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
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March 1, 2022
“At Henley Regatta there are beautiful boats, plenty of bunting, and… is that a body in the marquee?”
I am so addicted to this ‘Golden Age’ cozy mystery series, which just keeps getting better and better. The author would really have to ‘drop the baton’ before one of Lady Eleanor (Ellie) Swift’s adventures would get less than full marks from me!
It is usually easy for me to slip into the era of a storyline, however sometimes I do have to stop and give myself a good talking to, when my mind wanders too far from the time and place of the crime and the characters as they are depicted, and I start comparing them with the crime detection techniques and forensic testing of the present day. It might be that on this occasion, Ellie herself was so far out of her own comfort zone that she took her eye off the ball momentarily, not because there was anything at all out of context with the narrative or storyline, but simply because the ‘bright young thing’ culture which pervaded events and was determined to distract her, is so far removed from her natural outlook on life. Everyone close to her, has tried and spectacularly failed, to turn Eleanor into the pitch perfect ‘Lady Of The Manor’, that they have given up trying and to be honest, are actually made to feel much more comfortable themselves, when taking her as they find her and accepting that her rather quirky and down-to-earth outlook on her supposed position in life, is what makes her so genuine, unique and endearing.
Therefore, the force of nature who is Ellie’s new best friend, one Tiffany Persephone ‘Tipsy’ Fitzroy, really can be overwhelming and begin to grate on one’s nerves, in her efforts to change and transform Eleanor, not only by insisting on the two of them heading off to Henley Regatta, after first coercing Ellie into purchasing some very fashionable, yet totally frivolous and constraining clothes; but by then encouraging her to throw herself at the many eligible, but immensely conceited, titled and idle young men, who frequent such events. For Ellie, who is persevering in her attempts to take her so far rather tenuous friendship with Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon to the next level, she really isn’t interested in any extraneous romantic distractions and soon decides that Tipsy might have her own selfish best interests at heart, not Ellie’s. Beware the wolf in sheep’s clothing, Ellie!
Which is just as well, because Ellie, together with her faithful butler come confidante and fellow amateur sleuth, Clifford, soon find themselves embroiled in their favourite pastime, that of solving what fast becomes a rather complicated and convoluted duo of murders. However, on this occasion, the situation is further exacerbated by the fact that both victims are distantly related to the Royal Family, so Hugh and his team have been side-lined by the Royal Police, who take automatic jurisdiction and have personally requested that the duo investigate exclusively and with the utmost discretion, so as not to cause the Royal Household any derogatory press. It soon becomes clear to Ellie and Clifford, that they have been chosen by Sir Percival Westlake, with his own separate and very personal agenda at the forefront of his mind, although they assume, as it transpires incorrectly, it is because of the serious nature of the allegations against the two young men, that of potentially spying and running up huge debts through their nefarious gambling activities. Together with Hugh, who has by now defied his superiors to throw in his lot with Ellie and Clifford, it takes all their combined brainpower to eventually fathom the full extent of Sir Percival’s selfish duplicity and ulterior motives, which are much worse than they had expected, and thus confront and apprehend the murderer. By which time, they have been attacked, followed, had their conversations bugged and all manner of underhand activities, culminating in their final near death chase.
As the saying goes, ‘every cloud has a silver lining’, and on this occasion Ellie not only manages to cheat death in her closest encounter yet, but she has also been able to give Hugh a metaphorical nudge in the right direction on the romance front, as he makes it clear that he is ready to move their relationship forward a step or two, although whether it will be quickly enough for an impetuous Ellie, remains to be seen. Whatever happens though, Ellie and Clifford’s luck must surely soon run out and I can’t see Hugh tolerating many more such heart-stopping moments, which place Ellie in terrible danger, as he has had to endure during their Royal Murder Investigation.
Those are the very bare bones of what was in fact a very complex and complicated investigation, and whilst I might have briefly considered the eventual perpetrator as one of my suspects, their name certainly didn’t appear in my final frame, although many other erroneous ones did!
This multi-layered, highly textured, traditional murder/mystery storyline, was well structured and fluently written over many concise and well signposted chapters, which kept the action fast-paced and seamless, with never a dull moment. Rich in atmosphere, totally immersive and certainly a story to escape into, some wonderful narrative and dialogue added excellent visual depth to the proceedings; as picnics are shared with Hugh; late night brainstormers turn into marathon draughts and chess matches with the inimitable Clifford; the female members of the household staff, both old and young, can’t hide their feelings about having the dashing detective calling at the Hall on a regular basis; and even the gardener and Gladstone the dog get in on the act, with a hilarious episode concerning a roll in a muddy swamp! When the chips are down and duty calls, this rather eclectic mix of personalities take their responsibilities very seriously. However, there is always time for a little fun and games and those moments are documented by the author, with some delicious bursts of heart and humour.
As the series moves on and the characters really take on their own definitive personalities, I unusually find myself trying to visualise them as real, flesh and bones people and what they might physically look like. The times dictate that Ellie really should be only decorous window dressing and as such, when invited to events such as Henley, she should always have a glass in her hand, but always discreetly abstain from eating anything. OK, so either Ellie is much more curvaceous than I see her, or she definitely has hollow legs, as she doesn’t seem to be able to stop, like most of us, at ‘three square meals a day’, with her extensive snack regime known only to Clifford. Hugh, I imagine to be handsome, tall and rather gangly, always smartly turned out, but a little shy and tongue tied at social occasions and definitely married to his job, at which he is rather good. It is definitely Clifford who is something of an enigma. At first I had built up an image of someone rather ‘Poirot’ like, quite short, a little stocky and very silent and fleet of foot. However, having read about his personal exploits and challenges during the progress of this particular case, my view has been revised somewhat and whilst still rather stockily built, I now see him as a rather tall and imposing figure, silent yes, but you would always know when he is in a room. His loyalty to his mistress is without question, although at times he appears to act more like a middle-aged bachelor uncle, than a stuffed-shirt butler!
Ellie is a compelling, if unconventional, member of the aristocracy, although whether she will ever quite make it to ‘Your Ladyship’ status in high society, I’m not sure, and does she really aspire to? Clifford is every person’s dream companion, with his uncanny knack of being able to read his mistress’s mind, knowing what she is thinking and pre-empting her every slightest need before she even utters a word. Hugh is developing nicely in his role of charming suitor for Ellie, despite the gossips pointing out that his lowly position as a working class man and a member of the Constabulary at that, is not conducive to him ever becoming Lord of Henley Hall. In fact, all of the characters are maturing and growing in their individual roles, with some excellent vibrant synergy between them, making it easy for me to identify with and remain invested in them, as the series progresses.
Oh! and I mustn’t leave Gladstone out of the equation, for whilst he really doesn’t commit too much effort to the work of crime solving, he is a faithful and loyal friend to the entire household, so long as they have a few titbits of food for him on a regular basis and his bed is always in a nice warm spot by the kitchen range, for when life just gets too much for him and he needs his own space and forty winks!
A few hours of delicious escapism from the real world and I am always sad to see this dream team, close a case and go off to get on with their own lives, leaving me to return to my own!
To catch up with the author and to share some of my favourite moments and extracts from the book, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
I am so addicted to this ‘Golden Age’ cozy mystery series, which just keeps getting better and better. The author would really have to ‘drop the baton’ before one of Lady Eleanor (Ellie) Swift’s adventures would get less than full marks from me!
It is usually easy for me to slip into the era of a storyline, however sometimes I do have to stop and give myself a good talking to, when my mind wanders too far from the time and place of the crime and the characters as they are depicted, and I start comparing them with the crime detection techniques and forensic testing of the present day. It might be that on this occasion, Ellie herself was so far out of her own comfort zone that she took her eye off the ball momentarily, not because there was anything at all out of context with the narrative or storyline, but simply because the ‘bright young thing’ culture which pervaded events and was determined to distract her, is so far removed from her natural outlook on life. Everyone close to her, has tried and spectacularly failed, to turn Eleanor into the pitch perfect ‘Lady Of The Manor’, that they have given up trying and to be honest, are actually made to feel much more comfortable themselves, when taking her as they find her and accepting that her rather quirky and down-to-earth outlook on her supposed position in life, is what makes her so genuine, unique and endearing.
Therefore, the force of nature who is Ellie’s new best friend, one Tiffany Persephone ‘Tipsy’ Fitzroy, really can be overwhelming and begin to grate on one’s nerves, in her efforts to change and transform Eleanor, not only by insisting on the two of them heading off to Henley Regatta, after first coercing Ellie into purchasing some very fashionable, yet totally frivolous and constraining clothes; but by then encouraging her to throw herself at the many eligible, but immensely conceited, titled and idle young men, who frequent such events. For Ellie, who is persevering in her attempts to take her so far rather tenuous friendship with Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon to the next level, she really isn’t interested in any extraneous romantic distractions and soon decides that Tipsy might have her own selfish best interests at heart, not Ellie’s. Beware the wolf in sheep’s clothing, Ellie!
Which is just as well, because Ellie, together with her faithful butler come confidante and fellow amateur sleuth, Clifford, soon find themselves embroiled in their favourite pastime, that of solving what fast becomes a rather complicated and convoluted duo of murders. However, on this occasion, the situation is further exacerbated by the fact that both victims are distantly related to the Royal Family, so Hugh and his team have been side-lined by the Royal Police, who take automatic jurisdiction and have personally requested that the duo investigate exclusively and with the utmost discretion, so as not to cause the Royal Household any derogatory press. It soon becomes clear to Ellie and Clifford, that they have been chosen by Sir Percival Westlake, with his own separate and very personal agenda at the forefront of his mind, although they assume, as it transpires incorrectly, it is because of the serious nature of the allegations against the two young men, that of potentially spying and running up huge debts through their nefarious gambling activities. Together with Hugh, who has by now defied his superiors to throw in his lot with Ellie and Clifford, it takes all their combined brainpower to eventually fathom the full extent of Sir Percival’s selfish duplicity and ulterior motives, which are much worse than they had expected, and thus confront and apprehend the murderer. By which time, they have been attacked, followed, had their conversations bugged and all manner of underhand activities, culminating in their final near death chase.
As the saying goes, ‘every cloud has a silver lining’, and on this occasion Ellie not only manages to cheat death in her closest encounter yet, but she has also been able to give Hugh a metaphorical nudge in the right direction on the romance front, as he makes it clear that he is ready to move their relationship forward a step or two, although whether it will be quickly enough for an impetuous Ellie, remains to be seen. Whatever happens though, Ellie and Clifford’s luck must surely soon run out and I can’t see Hugh tolerating many more such heart-stopping moments, which place Ellie in terrible danger, as he has had to endure during their Royal Murder Investigation.
Those are the very bare bones of what was in fact a very complex and complicated investigation, and whilst I might have briefly considered the eventual perpetrator as one of my suspects, their name certainly didn’t appear in my final frame, although many other erroneous ones did!
This multi-layered, highly textured, traditional murder/mystery storyline, was well structured and fluently written over many concise and well signposted chapters, which kept the action fast-paced and seamless, with never a dull moment. Rich in atmosphere, totally immersive and certainly a story to escape into, some wonderful narrative and dialogue added excellent visual depth to the proceedings; as picnics are shared with Hugh; late night brainstormers turn into marathon draughts and chess matches with the inimitable Clifford; the female members of the household staff, both old and young, can’t hide their feelings about having the dashing detective calling at the Hall on a regular basis; and even the gardener and Gladstone the dog get in on the act, with a hilarious episode concerning a roll in a muddy swamp! When the chips are down and duty calls, this rather eclectic mix of personalities take their responsibilities very seriously. However, there is always time for a little fun and games and those moments are documented by the author, with some delicious bursts of heart and humour.
As the series moves on and the characters really take on their own definitive personalities, I unusually find myself trying to visualise them as real, flesh and bones people and what they might physically look like. The times dictate that Ellie really should be only decorous window dressing and as such, when invited to events such as Henley, she should always have a glass in her hand, but always discreetly abstain from eating anything. OK, so either Ellie is much more curvaceous than I see her, or she definitely has hollow legs, as she doesn’t seem to be able to stop, like most of us, at ‘three square meals a day’, with her extensive snack regime known only to Clifford. Hugh, I imagine to be handsome, tall and rather gangly, always smartly turned out, but a little shy and tongue tied at social occasions and definitely married to his job, at which he is rather good. It is definitely Clifford who is something of an enigma. At first I had built up an image of someone rather ‘Poirot’ like, quite short, a little stocky and very silent and fleet of foot. However, having read about his personal exploits and challenges during the progress of this particular case, my view has been revised somewhat and whilst still rather stockily built, I now see him as a rather tall and imposing figure, silent yes, but you would always know when he is in a room. His loyalty to his mistress is without question, although at times he appears to act more like a middle-aged bachelor uncle, than a stuffed-shirt butler!
Ellie is a compelling, if unconventional, member of the aristocracy, although whether she will ever quite make it to ‘Your Ladyship’ status in high society, I’m not sure, and does she really aspire to? Clifford is every person’s dream companion, with his uncanny knack of being able to read his mistress’s mind, knowing what she is thinking and pre-empting her every slightest need before she even utters a word. Hugh is developing nicely in his role of charming suitor for Ellie, despite the gossips pointing out that his lowly position as a working class man and a member of the Constabulary at that, is not conducive to him ever becoming Lord of Henley Hall. In fact, all of the characters are maturing and growing in their individual roles, with some excellent vibrant synergy between them, making it easy for me to identify with and remain invested in them, as the series progresses.
Oh! and I mustn’t leave Gladstone out of the equation, for whilst he really doesn’t commit too much effort to the work of crime solving, he is a faithful and loyal friend to the entire household, so long as they have a few titbits of food for him on a regular basis and his bed is always in a nice warm spot by the kitchen range, for when life just gets too much for him and he needs his own space and forty winks!
A few hours of delicious escapism from the real world and I am always sad to see this dream team, close a case and go off to get on with their own lives, leaving me to return to my own!
To catch up with the author and to share some of my favourite moments and extracts from the book, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
January 22, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, Verity Bright and Bookcoture for an e-Arc of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.
3.75 stars for the slow start and horrible Bright Young People and obvious murderer.
It's 1923 and Ellie has been back in England for two years now. She doesn't much enjoy playing lady of the manor, much to the dismay of her butler/bodyguard Clifford. Her romance with Hugh seems to be stalled due to his work and her new friend Lady Tiffany "Tipsy" Fizroy thinks it's high time Ellie join the Bright Young people and bag herself a man before she's on the shelf. Tipsy drags Ellie to the regatta, an event attended by the who's who of the smart set. Seldon is there too but in a professional capacity and doesn't seem too pleased to see Ellie's newest companions. Ellie is not too happy either, especially not when Tipsy manages to smooth Seldon's ego and make the famously serious detective smile. Egads! Then Ellie has bigger concerns when the emcee of the awards ceremony, Lord Xander Taylor-Howard, a cousin to the king, drops dead suddenly on stage before awarding prizes to the race winners. Detective Seldon spots signs of poison right away but the case is taken out of his hands by Sir Percival, the head of the royal police, who asks Eleanor for her help investigating. Ellie would like to refuse but it would cost Seldon his job if he gets involved. Agreeing to sign the Official Secrets Act, Ellie is given a list of people and motives. It seems Xander Taylor-Howard was up to his neck in nefarious deeds. Which one of the suspects hated him enough to want him dead?
The first half of the book is rather slow. I'm too old for Bright Young People and I didn't like how Ellie was being forced into becoming something she's not. It's one thing to push outside of one's comfort zone and another to become a Bright Young Person when one is neither bright nor young. I hated the regatta scene and was confused by all the suspects when it was perfectly obvious to me which one did it. I also didn't like the romantic drama. The second half of the novel picks up considerably with lots of action, excitement and Ellie and Hugh working their way towards having a real relationship. The second half was funnier too with Gladstone helping advance the plot. I seriously doubted my guess for murderer in the second half of the novel and just before Ellie figured it out, I thought I had it solved. I turned out to be sort of right and it was more complex than I imagined. The murderer was indeed too obvious though.
I really like how Ellie has grown over the last two years. She's now comfortably settled with Gladstone, Clifford and the ladies. They're like family to her now. However, she isn't doing much socializing and she still has moments of extreme self-doubt. She also worries about Hugh's feelings for her. She's so unconventional, she could just break all the rules and ask him. I don't like how Ellie allows herself to be railroaded by her new friend. I'd like to know more about how she met Tipsy and how they got to be friends. They're so different. Ellie threw over Lance because he was immature and stupid. Tipsy is the same way. Ellie is clearly uncomfortable with the fashionable set and her friend does nothing to help make it easier. Ellie needs to work on being more assertive. She improves once the murder occurs as she tries to stand up to a bulying police officer and as she teams up with Hugh to investigate.
Tipsy is just awful. She's not a real friend and completely scatterbrained. She never asks Ellie what she wants or pushes Ellie towards a compromise. It's her way or nothing. All she does is pour champagne down her throat (and Ellie's), flirt and push Ellie towards eligible men. She doesn't know or understand anything about meaningful relationships. Her idea of fun is "bagging" an eligible (rich and/or titled) man and partying. She tries to give Ellie a makeover, not taking Ellie's personal style or comfort into consideration. Ellie is older, more mature and wiser than Tipsy and Tipsy's scene is not Ellie's idea of fun.
I was surprised Clifford went along with Tipsy's grand plans for Ellie. He wants her to take her place as lady of the manor and be a proper lady but he of all people should know that's just not her. She's from an unconventional family and I think it's too late for her to change now. Clifford also has old-fashioned ideas about propriety and allowing women to participate in dangerous situations. In the second half of the novel, he reverts to being Ellie's bodyguard and wingman. Their investigations together are hilarious and Clifford has some surprising secrets hidden away, relics from when Lord Swift was still alive and up to whatever it was he did.
At first I didn't like Hugh and the romantic drama. He was so over professional and seemed disapproving and stern. Then as he's forced to meet Ellie to discuss the case, he becomes more relaxed and seems happier. I think like Ellie, Hugh enjoys using his brain and coming home to rest. He seems happier at Henley Hall with the ladies fussing over him and even Gladstone's messy, enthusiastic greetings. I loved seeing this new side of him. It's so different and makes him more charming to watch him loosen up. I thought he was smarter than he actually is though. I was certain he had figured out who the murderer was right away the same as I did and was trying to keep Ellie out of trouble. He does have very old-fashioned ideas about women. I felt uncomfortable for him the way the ladies were ogling him and objectifying him. We don't like it when men do that to us. I know they were teasing and having a bit of fun but still, he's too serious and literal to understand that and would probably feel hot under the collar if he did. He can't even mention certain improprieties around a lady, how can he realize the ladies think he's handsome?
Gladstone is my favorite character of all. He assists in advancing the plot, both the relationship between Ellie and Hugh plot and the murder mystery. Gladstone is a goofy lump and very lovable. I'm not sure I could handle all that drool and all those chewed up shoes and slippers but Gladstone is a loving companion so I think I could put up with it. He steals every scene he's in!
We meet a true hard-nosed policeman, someone more serious and decicated than Hugh! Sir Percival, head of the royal police, is a horrible bully, used to getting his own way and does not accept no for an answer. He's also not used to young ladies being cheeky with him. He deserves all the sass Ellie gives him for being so imperious with her. Sir Percival is the type who would lay down his life for King & Country. He would sacrifice his own mother, if he has one, to save the royal family from scandal or harm. Of course that's his job but he could be a little nicer and less imperious and less rude. Ellie is a private citizen, not one of his officers. He, at least, respects the intelligence of women but refuses to accept women belong in harm's way just the same as men. Ellie proves her level head can keep her out of trouble again and again even when the men plan action.
Lord Xander Taylor-Howard may be a cousin of the king (first cousin once removed) but he didn't act very royal. He epitomizes the Bright Young Thing set and didn't have an honorable bone in his body. He was up to his eyeballs in inappropriate behavior from adultery to gambling to possibly seeling secrets to the Russians! How COULD he? I would not put it past the royal family to eventually disown him though. He's 18th in line to the throne and with the war and influenza pandemic fresh in everyone's minds, he could very well end up King some day. I would fully expect the royals to disinherit him first or for him to shape up a bit more the way George IV and his brother did. It's really no wonder Xander was killed but who did the nefarious deed is the question? We can rule out the royal family since the King orders the investigation and personally asks for Ellie to get involved to keep it a secret.
His cousin Bartholomew Darnley is Xander's heir. Barty is a much nicer person but his flamboyant sense of style and slick personality doesn't appeal to me. Barty is the hanger-on, the younger cousin who is always cast aside in favor of his cousin but I think Barty is smarter and more honorable than Xander. However, clues point to Barty perhaps murdering his cousin for the money or being involved somehow with whatever got Xander killed. Which is it? What about Xander's sister? She seems like she was attached to him, at least when they were younger. She was the only girl and recieves only a female's share of the family money but what about her reputation? Could she have murdered her brother to keep him from scandalizing the family? Or did she know what he was up to and have an idea of who killed him? If so, her life could be in danger!
Was it Lady Montfort, Xander's former lover? An older, married woman with impeccible style, she doesn't seem to view affairs in the same way the royals do. She's very casual with her relationships or so she says anyway. Did she become angry when jilted by her younger lover? I think she's a practiced liar and I wouldn't believe anything she says. What about her husband? Does he have an alibi? Or Sir Roderick Rumbold, another cuckolded husband. He has a short fuse and is completely sexist. He's a wealthy businessman in the radio industry. He believes every home should have a radio to keep the ladies' minds occupied and keep them stuck at home and out of the Society pages. This doesn't seem to be working in his own home. His wife not only has expensive taste she also has a taste for younger men, like Xander. When Ellie tries to press Sir Roderick for information he grows impatient and less than charming. True, she deliberately played the ditzy debutante to provoke him but he fell for it and lost his cool. Could he have wanted revenge against Xander for making his personal life fodder for the gossip rags? They're both unrelaible and important enough that their servants would lie and tell the tale they're told to tell, making their alibis shaky at best.
Sergei Orlov is an amusing suspect. A Russian spy, he's actually quite good at disgusing himself and his accent. He could have fooled Ellie if she didn't know who he was. I think he's a charming ne'er do well. Is he REALLY a spy or perhaps he's an actor. No one questioned who he was but he knows a lot about what Xander was up to and claims his superiors would deny knowing him. That gives him a weak alibi as well. I rather like him and his sense of humor. I hope he's not the murderer. Also charming and funny, but very very dangerous is "Fingers" Treacher. Fingers is a crime boss and sounds like he belongs in New York. He's Irish and therefore has the gift of gab and Irish charm. Don't mistake his charm for heart though. He's tough and didn't get to where he was by being nice. When someone owes him money, he makes sure they know when he wants it in no uncertain terms. He doesn't have a motive for murder unless perhaps Xander sold Fingers out or double crossed him for some reason. Perhaps Fingers's thugs crossed HIM and killed Xander anyway because Xander was up to no good making a deal without Fingers' knowledge?
What was Xander up to and who killed him?
Bonus point for a brief cameo by a queer fashion designer. It surprises Ellie to see that Madame Vermeer is a man. I'd like to know more about this person and their background. I hope she comes back for more dresses and more investiagting. Another character I want to know more about is Sir Aubrey "Squints" Frampton, an expert in glass and lepidoptera. He was friends with Uncle Byron and Clifford back in the good ol' days when they did whatever it was they did. He's charmingly eccentric and really smart! I hope Clifford brings Ellie to call on him again!
I enjoyed this latest entry in the series and look forward to the next.
Content
Adultery
sexism
murder (obviously)
minor pysical violence
3.75 stars for the slow start and horrible Bright Young People and obvious murderer.
It's 1923 and Ellie has been back in England for two years now. She doesn't much enjoy playing lady of the manor, much to the dismay of her butler/bodyguard Clifford. Her romance with Hugh seems to be stalled due to his work and her new friend Lady Tiffany "Tipsy" Fizroy thinks it's high time Ellie join the Bright Young people and bag herself a man before she's on the shelf. Tipsy drags Ellie to the regatta, an event attended by the who's who of the smart set. Seldon is there too but in a professional capacity and doesn't seem too pleased to see Ellie's newest companions. Ellie is not too happy either, especially not when Tipsy manages to smooth Seldon's ego and make the famously serious detective smile. Egads! Then Ellie has bigger concerns when the emcee of the awards ceremony, Lord Xander Taylor-Howard, a cousin to the king, drops dead suddenly on stage before awarding prizes to the race winners. Detective Seldon spots signs of poison right away but the case is taken out of his hands by Sir Percival, the head of the royal police, who asks Eleanor for her help investigating. Ellie would like to refuse but it would cost Seldon his job if he gets involved. Agreeing to sign the Official Secrets Act, Ellie is given a list of people and motives. It seems Xander Taylor-Howard was up to his neck in nefarious deeds. Which one of the suspects hated him enough to want him dead?
The first half of the book is rather slow. I'm too old for Bright Young People and I didn't like how Ellie was being forced into becoming something she's not. It's one thing to push outside of one's comfort zone and another to become a Bright Young Person when one is neither bright nor young. I hated the regatta scene and was confused by all the suspects when it was perfectly obvious to me which one did it. I also didn't like the romantic drama. The second half of the novel picks up considerably with lots of action, excitement and Ellie and Hugh working their way towards having a real relationship. The second half was funnier too with Gladstone helping advance the plot. I seriously doubted my guess for murderer in the second half of the novel and just before Ellie figured it out, I thought I had it solved. I turned out to be sort of right and it was more complex than I imagined. The murderer was indeed too obvious though.
I really like how Ellie has grown over the last two years. She's now comfortably settled with Gladstone, Clifford and the ladies. They're like family to her now. However, she isn't doing much socializing and she still has moments of extreme self-doubt. She also worries about Hugh's feelings for her. She's so unconventional, she could just break all the rules and ask him. I don't like how Ellie allows herself to be railroaded by her new friend. I'd like to know more about how she met Tipsy and how they got to be friends. They're so different. Ellie threw over Lance because he was immature and stupid. Tipsy is the same way. Ellie is clearly uncomfortable with the fashionable set and her friend does nothing to help make it easier. Ellie needs to work on being more assertive. She improves once the murder occurs as she tries to stand up to a bulying police officer and as she teams up with Hugh to investigate.
Tipsy is just awful. She's not a real friend and completely scatterbrained. She never asks Ellie what she wants or pushes Ellie towards a compromise. It's her way or nothing. All she does is pour champagne down her throat (and Ellie's), flirt and push Ellie towards eligible men. She doesn't know or understand anything about meaningful relationships. Her idea of fun is "bagging" an eligible (rich and/or titled) man and partying. She tries to give Ellie a makeover, not taking Ellie's personal style or comfort into consideration. Ellie is older, more mature and wiser than Tipsy and Tipsy's scene is not Ellie's idea of fun.
I was surprised Clifford went along with Tipsy's grand plans for Ellie. He wants her to take her place as lady of the manor and be a proper lady but he of all people should know that's just not her. She's from an unconventional family and I think it's too late for her to change now. Clifford also has old-fashioned ideas about propriety and allowing women to participate in dangerous situations. In the second half of the novel, he reverts to being Ellie's bodyguard and wingman. Their investigations together are hilarious and Clifford has some surprising secrets hidden away, relics from when Lord Swift was still alive and up to whatever it was he did.
At first I didn't like Hugh and the romantic drama. He was so over professional and seemed disapproving and stern. Then as he's forced to meet Ellie to discuss the case, he becomes more relaxed and seems happier. I think like Ellie, Hugh enjoys using his brain and coming home to rest. He seems happier at Henley Hall with the ladies fussing over him and even Gladstone's messy, enthusiastic greetings. I loved seeing this new side of him. It's so different and makes him more charming to watch him loosen up. I thought he was smarter than he actually is though. I was certain he had figured out who the murderer was right away the same as I did and was trying to keep Ellie out of trouble. He does have very old-fashioned ideas about women. I felt uncomfortable for him the way the ladies were ogling him and objectifying him. We don't like it when men do that to us. I know they were teasing and having a bit of fun but still, he's too serious and literal to understand that and would probably feel hot under the collar if he did. He can't even mention certain improprieties around a lady, how can he realize the ladies think he's handsome?
Gladstone is my favorite character of all. He assists in advancing the plot, both the relationship between Ellie and Hugh plot and the murder mystery. Gladstone is a goofy lump and very lovable. I'm not sure I could handle all that drool and all those chewed up shoes and slippers but Gladstone is a loving companion so I think I could put up with it. He steals every scene he's in!
We meet a true hard-nosed policeman, someone more serious and decicated than Hugh! Sir Percival, head of the royal police, is a horrible bully, used to getting his own way and does not accept no for an answer. He's also not used to young ladies being cheeky with him. He deserves all the sass Ellie gives him for being so imperious with her. Sir Percival is the type who would lay down his life for King & Country. He would sacrifice his own mother, if he has one, to save the royal family from scandal or harm. Of course that's his job but he could be a little nicer and less imperious and less rude. Ellie is a private citizen, not one of his officers. He, at least, respects the intelligence of women but refuses to accept women belong in harm's way just the same as men. Ellie proves her level head can keep her out of trouble again and again even when the men plan action.
Lord Xander Taylor-Howard may be a cousin of the king (first cousin once removed) but he didn't act very royal. He epitomizes the Bright Young Thing set and didn't have an honorable bone in his body. He was up to his eyeballs in inappropriate behavior from adultery to gambling to possibly seeling secrets to the Russians! How COULD he? I would not put it past the royal family to eventually disown him though. He's 18th in line to the throne and with the war and influenza pandemic fresh in everyone's minds, he could very well end up King some day. I would fully expect the royals to disinherit him first or for him to shape up a bit more the way George IV and his brother did. It's really no wonder Xander was killed but who did the nefarious deed is the question? We can rule out the royal family since the King orders the investigation and personally asks for Ellie to get involved to keep it a secret.
His cousin Bartholomew Darnley is Xander's heir. Barty is a much nicer person but his flamboyant sense of style and slick personality doesn't appeal to me. Barty is the hanger-on, the younger cousin who is always cast aside in favor of his cousin but I think Barty is smarter and more honorable than Xander. However, clues point to Barty perhaps murdering his cousin for the money or being involved somehow with whatever got Xander killed. Which is it? What about Xander's sister? She seems like she was attached to him, at least when they were younger. She was the only girl and recieves only a female's share of the family money but what about her reputation? Could she have murdered her brother to keep him from scandalizing the family? Or did she know what he was up to and have an idea of who killed him? If so, her life could be in danger!
Was it Lady Montfort, Xander's former lover? An older, married woman with impeccible style, she doesn't seem to view affairs in the same way the royals do. She's very casual with her relationships or so she says anyway. Did she become angry when jilted by her younger lover? I think she's a practiced liar and I wouldn't believe anything she says. What about her husband? Does he have an alibi? Or Sir Roderick Rumbold, another cuckolded husband. He has a short fuse and is completely sexist. He's a wealthy businessman in the radio industry. He believes every home should have a radio to keep the ladies' minds occupied and keep them stuck at home and out of the Society pages. This doesn't seem to be working in his own home. His wife not only has expensive taste she also has a taste for younger men, like Xander. When Ellie tries to press Sir Roderick for information he grows impatient and less than charming. True, she deliberately played the ditzy debutante to provoke him but he fell for it and lost his cool. Could he have wanted revenge against Xander for making his personal life fodder for the gossip rags? They're both unrelaible and important enough that their servants would lie and tell the tale they're told to tell, making their alibis shaky at best.
Sergei Orlov is an amusing suspect. A Russian spy, he's actually quite good at disgusing himself and his accent. He could have fooled Ellie if she didn't know who he was. I think he's a charming ne'er do well. Is he REALLY a spy or perhaps he's an actor. No one questioned who he was but he knows a lot about what Xander was up to and claims his superiors would deny knowing him. That gives him a weak alibi as well. I rather like him and his sense of humor. I hope he's not the murderer. Also charming and funny, but very very dangerous is "Fingers" Treacher. Fingers is a crime boss and sounds like he belongs in New York. He's Irish and therefore has the gift of gab and Irish charm. Don't mistake his charm for heart though. He's tough and didn't get to where he was by being nice. When someone owes him money, he makes sure they know when he wants it in no uncertain terms. He doesn't have a motive for murder unless perhaps Xander sold Fingers out or double crossed him for some reason. Perhaps Fingers's thugs crossed HIM and killed Xander anyway because Xander was up to no good making a deal without Fingers' knowledge?
What was Xander up to and who killed him?
Bonus point for a brief cameo by a queer fashion designer. It surprises Ellie to see that Madame Vermeer is a man. I'd like to know more about this person and their background. I hope she comes back for more dresses and more investiagting. Another character I want to know more about is Sir Aubrey "Squints" Frampton, an expert in glass and lepidoptera. He was friends with Uncle Byron and Clifford back in the good ol' days when they did whatever it was they did. He's charmingly eccentric and really smart! I hope Clifford brings Ellie to call on him again!
I enjoyed this latest entry in the series and look forward to the next.
Content
Adultery
sexism
murder (obviously)
minor pysical violence
March 4, 2022
As a former war nurse, death is something that Lady Eleanor Swift has seen in passing more than she would like to remember. However, Ellie has become more than adept as an amateur sleuth and she gets that very same opportunity yet again. She is attending a royal regatta, with a stunning new dress. Her friend Tipsy Fitzroy provided her input as to an apparent makeover and depending on how Ellie does at the event, she just might prove she can now be a proper lady.
Considering Ellie had spent most of her life doing as she wished, conforming to her proper station in life has definitely proved a challenge. She has the very special Clifford at her side, butler turned guardian turned confidante - and more. The pair get the opportunity to do what they do best when the host at the regatta drops dead immediately upon drinking champagne. Poison seems very likely the culprit and Ellie intends on finding out who could be responsible.
Sworn to secrecy by Sir Percival Westlake of the royal police, Ellie is brought into the investigation of which was quickly determined to be murder. She was actively agrees to cooperate but she definitely has her own idea on how to proceed.
What a fabulous read! This book is part of a delightful series and each story is nice and fresh, thoroughly entertaining with the perfect mix of drama and intrigue, with just the right dose of danger. Also, don’t miss the extremely informative Historical Notes at the end of the book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Considering Ellie had spent most of her life doing as she wished, conforming to her proper station in life has definitely proved a challenge. She has the very special Clifford at her side, butler turned guardian turned confidante - and more. The pair get the opportunity to do what they do best when the host at the regatta drops dead immediately upon drinking champagne. Poison seems very likely the culprit and Ellie intends on finding out who could be responsible.
Sworn to secrecy by Sir Percival Westlake of the royal police, Ellie is brought into the investigation of which was quickly determined to be murder. She was actively agrees to cooperate but she definitely has her own idea on how to proceed.
What a fabulous read! This book is part of a delightful series and each story is nice and fresh, thoroughly entertaining with the perfect mix of drama and intrigue, with just the right dose of danger. Also, don’t miss the extremely informative Historical Notes at the end of the book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
February 28, 2022
A delightful cozy mystery series circa 1920s is familiar and comforting.
In this 9th book, Lady Eleanor Swift and her trusty companions are engaged to find out who poisoned a minor royal at the regatta. She's given a list of potential suspects but her love interest, Detective Inspector Hugh Seldon, is told by the head of Royal Police to stay off the case. Interesting. Eleanor and her butler/bodyguard, Clifford, speak to many who were in attendance -- a collection of shady characters with opportunity and motive. Seems that the dead man had lots of secrets. But who wanted him dead?
I really enjoy the interaction between the characters and all the description and detail the author brings to the murder mystery. Clothes, food, and social customs are brought to life in the time period. Lady Eleanor isn't the typical upper crust woman; she has a great sense of humor and is quite down to earth despite her position -- much to the dismay of her household help who rues her independent streak. I always look forward to reading each new installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
In this 9th book, Lady Eleanor Swift and her trusty companions are engaged to find out who poisoned a minor royal at the regatta. She's given a list of potential suspects but her love interest, Detective Inspector Hugh Seldon, is told by the head of Royal Police to stay off the case. Interesting. Eleanor and her butler/bodyguard, Clifford, speak to many who were in attendance -- a collection of shady characters with opportunity and motive. Seems that the dead man had lots of secrets. But who wanted him dead?
I really enjoy the interaction between the characters and all the description and detail the author brings to the murder mystery. Clothes, food, and social customs are brought to life in the time period. Lady Eleanor isn't the typical upper crust woman; she has a great sense of humor and is quite down to earth despite her position -- much to the dismay of her household help who rues her independent streak. I always look forward to reading each new installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
August 20, 2022
A "whodunnit" that has everything I like in one fun package.
Great characterization--Eleanor is up to her old tricks with trusty Gladstone and Clifford at her side, and Seldon isn't far behind. Add to those a mystery that I both called (crazy early, actually) but couldn't figure out for the life of me WHY or even how... and really, the who made no sense until it did. Well done Ms. Bright!
For those wondering if you can read the books out of order, while I wouldn't choose to START with number nine, I did read ten before nine and it didn't affect my enjoyment at all. So if you get them mixed up, you might just be all right!
Great characterization--Eleanor is up to her old tricks with trusty Gladstone and Clifford at her side, and Seldon isn't far behind. Add to those a mystery that I both called (crazy early, actually) but couldn't figure out for the life of me WHY or even how... and really, the who made no sense until it did. Well done Ms. Bright!
For those wondering if you can read the books out of order, while I wouldn't choose to START with number nine, I did read ten before nine and it didn't affect my enjoyment at all. So if you get them mixed up, you might just be all right!
March 4, 2022
We’re back for another fun romp with my favourite aristocratic amateur sleuth. For the ninth instalment in their Lady Eleanor Swift series, Verity Bright transport us back to Spring 1923 and the annual royal regatta, which Eleanor is attending with her new friend, Tipsy Fitzroy. Tipsy is determined to turn Eleanor into a ‘proper’ Lady and find her a suitable man at the event. But all thoughts of love and propriety are swiftly forgotten when Lord Xander Taylor-Howard, a minor member of the royal family, collapses at the prize-giving ceremony. Though initially reluctant, Eleanor soon finds herself drawn into the investigation into Xander's death, trying to identify the suspect and avoid a royal scandal. But someone doesn’t appreciate Eleanor’s investigations and once again she finds herself in danger…
I have come to view this series as a real comfort read and it was the beginning of my journey into reading cosy mysteries, which I’d always previously thought would be too tame for my dark crime-loving soul. The characters are a delight and I love the relationship between Lady Eleanor and her butler Clifford. This witty crime-solving duo never fails to entertain me while keeping me glued to their latest mystery. I am also deeply invested in her burgeoning romance with Chief Inspector Hugh Sleddon, which I’m hoping will head towards the happily-ever-after they deserve.
Once again I was glued to the pages as Eleanor finds herself embroiled in yet another murder investigation. The poor woman can’t seem to go anywhere without a dead body turning up! This time she’s doing it for King and country as she tries to help avoid a royal scandal after the poisoning of a maverick minor royal. Xander was charming but left a trail of potential scandal behind him, leaving a myriad of possible killers and motives. It’s a tangled web to unravel, but if anyone can do it it’s Eleanor and Clifford. I loved how much this story twisted and turned, taking me by surprise and revealing truths I never even considered.
If you’re looking for a murder mystery that is also lively, witty and uplifting then pick up this book.
I have come to view this series as a real comfort read and it was the beginning of my journey into reading cosy mysteries, which I’d always previously thought would be too tame for my dark crime-loving soul. The characters are a delight and I love the relationship between Lady Eleanor and her butler Clifford. This witty crime-solving duo never fails to entertain me while keeping me glued to their latest mystery. I am also deeply invested in her burgeoning romance with Chief Inspector Hugh Sleddon, which I’m hoping will head towards the happily-ever-after they deserve.
Once again I was glued to the pages as Eleanor finds herself embroiled in yet another murder investigation. The poor woman can’t seem to go anywhere without a dead body turning up! This time she’s doing it for King and country as she tries to help avoid a royal scandal after the poisoning of a maverick minor royal. Xander was charming but left a trail of potential scandal behind him, leaving a myriad of possible killers and motives. It’s a tangled web to unravel, but if anyone can do it it’s Eleanor and Clifford. I loved how much this story twisted and turned, taking me by surprise and revealing truths I never even considered.
If you’re looking for a murder mystery that is also lively, witty and uplifting then pick up this book.
February 24, 2022
Lady Eleanor Swift is back, and under the tutelage of Lady Tiffany Fitzroy, known by everyone as Tipsy. Clifford believes Ellie must learn to fit in with “polite society”, and to do that she needs coaching in how to behave as a well-bred woman amongst the nobility, so how to eat (or not!), how to dress, where to be seen, how to express one self, and all sorts of other things.
Whilst attending a regatta with Tipsy, Ellie meets a handsome and dashing young man, who, not an hour later, is dead of cyanide poisoning during an award ceremony.
Ellie is drafted into investigating the man’s death (he was eighteenth in line to the throne) by the head of the Royal Police, Sir Percival, who kicks Ellie’s Hugh (Detective Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon to everyone else) off the case, claiming there could be scandalous implications for the Royals, whom he must protect at all costs.
Ellie interviews several people from Sir Percival's suspect list, getting a rather insalubrious picture of the young man, and his whole set (and the nobility in general). She figures things out, of course (though I got there almost immediately after she began investigating!), and things turn out well for her, Hugh, Clifford, and most importantly, Gladstone, at the book’s resolution.
I wish the authors would let us see more Clifford in action. He is such a scene stealer, though Eleanor had some really good moments while interviewing suspects, particularly a crime lord, whom I hope we see again.
This is the second book I’ve read in this series, and it’s light, fun, and occasionally funny, and Eleanor and her “family” are growing on me.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Whilst attending a regatta with Tipsy, Ellie meets a handsome and dashing young man, who, not an hour later, is dead of cyanide poisoning during an award ceremony.
Ellie is drafted into investigating the man’s death (he was eighteenth in line to the throne) by the head of the Royal Police, Sir Percival, who kicks Ellie’s Hugh (Detective Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon to everyone else) off the case, claiming there could be scandalous implications for the Royals, whom he must protect at all costs.
Ellie interviews several people from Sir Percival's suspect list, getting a rather insalubrious picture of the young man, and his whole set (and the nobility in general). She figures things out, of course (though I got there almost immediately after she began investigating!), and things turn out well for her, Hugh, Clifford, and most importantly, Gladstone, at the book’s resolution.
I wish the authors would let us see more Clifford in action. He is such a scene stealer, though Eleanor had some really good moments while interviewing suspects, particularly a crime lord, whom I hope we see again.
This is the second book I’ve read in this series, and it’s light, fun, and occasionally funny, and Eleanor and her “family” are growing on me.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 15, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 9th installment on the Lady Eleanor Swift series and I have to say it is a fun read. This is a series that wonderful to lose yourself in. I love all the characters, but def my favorite is the Butler/Bodyguard/sounding board Clifford. You can't help but love him and all the main characters in this series.
Lady Eleanor has a new friend, Tipsy who has taken it upon herself to make Lady Eleanor her new pet project. While at the regatta, a low-ranking royal is murdered and Eleanor is deputized by Sir Percival and the Royal Police to help solve the mystery. Our handsome detective, Seldon is off the case, but still manages to help Eleanor solve the case, along with Clifford. Tipsy, who turns out to be a fair-weather friend, makes a beeline for Seldon, but fear not, Seldon only has eyes for Eleanor.
This book was a nice read, although I did figure out who the culprit was pretty quickly in the story., it did not deter from an enjoyable read.. I recommend this book for lovers of all things cozy, or readers who are in the mood for something light and feel good.
This is the 9th installment on the Lady Eleanor Swift series and I have to say it is a fun read. This is a series that wonderful to lose yourself in. I love all the characters, but def my favorite is the Butler/Bodyguard/sounding board Clifford. You can't help but love him and all the main characters in this series.
Lady Eleanor has a new friend, Tipsy who has taken it upon herself to make Lady Eleanor her new pet project. While at the regatta, a low-ranking royal is murdered and Eleanor is deputized by Sir Percival and the Royal Police to help solve the mystery. Our handsome detective, Seldon is off the case, but still manages to help Eleanor solve the case, along with Clifford. Tipsy, who turns out to be a fair-weather friend, makes a beeline for Seldon, but fear not, Seldon only has eyes for Eleanor.
This book was a nice read, although I did figure out who the culprit was pretty quickly in the story., it did not deter from an enjoyable read.. I recommend this book for lovers of all things cozy, or readers who are in the mood for something light and feel good.
March 6, 2022
I wasn’t going to continue with this series, but I was short of new books to read so I gave it one last chance. I should have realised my mistake as soon as we meet ‘Tipsy’ on the first page. I was originally attracted to this series because Eleanor appeared to be a strong, independent woman. Unfortunately it was bad enough her pining after the detestable Chief Inspector Seldon, but not being able to resist the ridiculous Tipsy was the final straw.
July 16, 2025
The twists and turns in the Lady Eleanor Swift cosy mysteries written by Verity Bright are becoming even more tangled now the series is well-established. ‘A Royal Murder’ involves a death at Henley Regatta, the royal protection police, a Russian spy and a criminal mastermind. The stakes are higher, and so are the risks to Ellie.
Ellie is not in her comfortable place when she is ushered to the regatta by her new best friend, society girl Tiffany Persephone Fitzroy, better known as Tipsy. Ellie, who has already failed to live up to Tipsy’s long list of necessary style improvements to facilitate her entry into the highest of society – including pretending to have a ladylike appetite – is to be introduced to the king’s first cousin, once removed. Tipsy insists Eleanor must look her ‘fabulous best’ when she finally meets Xander Taylor-Howard at Henley. Soon she is trussed up in a sea of ivory silk frills and an enormous matching hat with ostrich feathers. Worst of all, Ellie must go the regatta looking like a ‘walking wedding cake’ where her favourite detective chief inspector, Hugh Seldon, is in charge of security.
Xander turns out to be a bit of a playboy. Unfortunately after the races at the prize-giving ceremony, he drinks from his glass of champagne and drops dead. Because Xander is one of the royal family, the murder hunt is run by the royal police headed by Sir Percival Westlake. Seldon is off the case but, much to her bemusement, Lady Swift is recruited by Sir Percival to investigate the people on his list of suspects.
Ellie and Clifford, her faithful butler, chase around interviewing suspects, secretly meeting the disgruntled Seldon to swap theories and discoveries. Xander Taylor-Howard had many secrets to hide, disgruntled husbands who have been cheated on, angry former girlfriends who were unceremoniously ditched. But when a second man is murdered, other secrets are uncovered. Who did Xander owe money to and how much; enough to be worth killing for. Or perhaps he was selling state secrets to the Russians.
The danger is more intense in this novel and, despite their best efforts, neither Clifford or Hugh can prevent Ellie from marching straight into trouble. But the familiar delights are still present; Clifford’s Mastermind-like ability to know the answer to every question; bulldog Gladstone’s ability to jump into the stinky overflow pond, the gorgeous food cooked by Mrs Trotman. And the ending is lovely.
Such an effortlessly entertaining series, the books continue to get better. ‘A Royal Murder,’ the ninth instalment, has a lively cast of goodies and baddies. Ellie is unconventional and ahead of her time, Hugh is the strong silent hero, Clifford in indefatigable.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
Ellie is not in her comfortable place when she is ushered to the regatta by her new best friend, society girl Tiffany Persephone Fitzroy, better known as Tipsy. Ellie, who has already failed to live up to Tipsy’s long list of necessary style improvements to facilitate her entry into the highest of society – including pretending to have a ladylike appetite – is to be introduced to the king’s first cousin, once removed. Tipsy insists Eleanor must look her ‘fabulous best’ when she finally meets Xander Taylor-Howard at Henley. Soon she is trussed up in a sea of ivory silk frills and an enormous matching hat with ostrich feathers. Worst of all, Ellie must go the regatta looking like a ‘walking wedding cake’ where her favourite detective chief inspector, Hugh Seldon, is in charge of security.
Xander turns out to be a bit of a playboy. Unfortunately after the races at the prize-giving ceremony, he drinks from his glass of champagne and drops dead. Because Xander is one of the royal family, the murder hunt is run by the royal police headed by Sir Percival Westlake. Seldon is off the case but, much to her bemusement, Lady Swift is recruited by Sir Percival to investigate the people on his list of suspects.
Ellie and Clifford, her faithful butler, chase around interviewing suspects, secretly meeting the disgruntled Seldon to swap theories and discoveries. Xander Taylor-Howard had many secrets to hide, disgruntled husbands who have been cheated on, angry former girlfriends who were unceremoniously ditched. But when a second man is murdered, other secrets are uncovered. Who did Xander owe money to and how much; enough to be worth killing for. Or perhaps he was selling state secrets to the Russians.
The danger is more intense in this novel and, despite their best efforts, neither Clifford or Hugh can prevent Ellie from marching straight into trouble. But the familiar delights are still present; Clifford’s Mastermind-like ability to know the answer to every question; bulldog Gladstone’s ability to jump into the stinky overflow pond, the gorgeous food cooked by Mrs Trotman. And the ending is lovely.
Such an effortlessly entertaining series, the books continue to get better. ‘A Royal Murder,’ the ninth instalment, has a lively cast of goodies and baddies. Ellie is unconventional and ahead of her time, Hugh is the strong silent hero, Clifford in indefatigable.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
February 26, 2022
Spring, 1923. One-time adventurer and now amateur sleuth Lady Eleanor Swift is attending the annual royal regatta with her new bestie Lady Tipsy Fitzroy. Tipsy has Eleanor trussed up like a debutante in a new dress, determined to turn her into a proper society lady. However the sparkling prize-giving ceremony is interrupted when guest of honour gulps his glass of champagne on stage and collapses to the floor. The victim is none other than the king’s cousin, Lord Xander Taylor-Howard. He’s a philanderer, a gambler & reportedly selling secrets so the list of suspects is long. Sir Percival, the head of the royal police, asks Eleanor for her help investigating. He’d do anything to keep the story under wraps as there can be no scandal linked to the Palace. Detective Inspector Hugh Seldon has been warned off the case by Sir Percival but when there's another body he starts to investigate. It isn’t until Ellie takes a closer look at the unfortunate royal’s shattered champagne flute that she stumbles upon just the clue she needs.
The ninth outing for Ellie, Clifford & of course Gladstone & another well written page turner. I love Ellie & the stalwart Clifford as well as the very slow burn romance between Ellie & Hugh. A delicious mix between humour & mystery, I was kept guessing as to who the murderer was as there were plenty of red herrings as well as twists & turns which I didn’t see coming. The characters have plenty of depth & I have a very soft spot for Ellie, her staff & Hugh, I look forward to each new story. I recommend the book & the series without hesitation
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The ninth outing for Ellie, Clifford & of course Gladstone & another well written page turner. I love Ellie & the stalwart Clifford as well as the very slow burn romance between Ellie & Hugh. A delicious mix between humour & mystery, I was kept guessing as to who the murderer was as there were plenty of red herrings as well as twists & turns which I didn’t see coming. The characters have plenty of depth & I have a very soft spot for Ellie, her staff & Hugh, I look forward to each new story. I recommend the book & the series without hesitation
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 24, 2022
Being very diligent in sleuthing out the murderer is always a good thing, but this series has the very best and interesting characters (good, bad, and absolutely silly). The one murdered is poisoned in full view of a crowd (poison), but his personal life proves to be appalling and the list of suspects keeps growing. Great read for a snowy afternoon!
The series began as a farce: presumed orphan from South Africa (and world traveler on the cheap) comes to rural England and finds that she has inherited the title and all that from uncle who is recently deceased. She has little idea of how people are expected to behave in this milieu and is a klutz, to boot. The best part of it all is The Butler Who Knows Everything who helps her with anything, and never treats her like a ninny.
The publisher's blurb is a really good hook and I loved this read!
I requested and received a temporary digital ARC of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The series began as a farce: presumed orphan from South Africa (and world traveler on the cheap) comes to rural England and finds that she has inherited the title and all that from uncle who is recently deceased. She has little idea of how people are expected to behave in this milieu and is a klutz, to boot. The best part of it all is The Butler Who Knows Everything who helps her with anything, and never treats her like a ninny.
The publisher's blurb is a really good hook and I loved this read!
I requested and received a temporary digital ARC of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
March 7, 2022
This one caught me completely by surprise. Why haven’t I heard of this series earlier? Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC and allowing me to discover the wonderful world of Lady Swift.
Full disclaimer: I haven’t read any of the previous books in this series but I didn’t feel as though I enjoyed it any less because of that.
This book is the definition of a cozy mystery. It follows Lady Swift, a woman who breaks all the rules of what a 1920s woman is expected to be. She makes her own rules when she is consulted on the murder of someone in the royal family. With the help of her butler Clifford and her handsome “friend” Chief Inspector Hugh, she unravels the who and why of the royal’s suspicious death.
I enjoyed every moment of this book. About halfway through, I guessed one of the reveals but that didn’t take away any of the fun. I will definitely be adding the whole series to my TBR and I can’t wait for what Verity Bright has coming next.
Full disclaimer: I haven’t read any of the previous books in this series but I didn’t feel as though I enjoyed it any less because of that.
This book is the definition of a cozy mystery. It follows Lady Swift, a woman who breaks all the rules of what a 1920s woman is expected to be. She makes her own rules when she is consulted on the murder of someone in the royal family. With the help of her butler Clifford and her handsome “friend” Chief Inspector Hugh, she unravels the who and why of the royal’s suspicious death.
I enjoyed every moment of this book. About halfway through, I guessed one of the reveals but that didn’t take away any of the fun. I will definitely be adding the whole series to my TBR and I can’t wait for what Verity Bright has coming next.
listened
July 24, 20243 stars.
The Royal VIP is poisoned during his speech at an annual boat regatta and of course, Ellie is there to witness his death. When the Royal Police pushed Scotland Yard aside from investigating the case, Hugh unofficially helps Ellie to figure out why he was killed.
There's still a lot of back and forth in the romance between Hugh and Ellie. But as usual, Clifford is on the case. Another good instalment to the series. This time around, I did manage to guess who the killer might be, even though I had no reason why!
The Royal VIP is poisoned during his speech at an annual boat regatta and of course, Ellie is there to witness his death. When the Royal Police pushed Scotland Yard aside from investigating the case, Hugh unofficially helps Ellie to figure out why he was killed.
There's still a lot of back and forth in the romance between Hugh and Ellie. But as usual, Clifford is on the case. Another good instalment to the series. This time around, I did manage to guess who the killer might be, even though I had no reason why!
March 12, 2022
Complicated plot, enjoyable puzzle, very appealing characters, including the dog.
March 5, 2022
Light and entertaining but I guessed whodunit right away.
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;
October 13, 2022
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
A Royal Murder is the 9th Lady Eleanor Swift cozy mystery by pseudonymous writing duo Verity Bright. Released 28th Feb 2022, it's 290 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book (and the rest of the series) are currently included in the KU library to borrow and read for free.
This is such a fun historical cozy series, set in the roaring 20s and featuring amateur society sleuth Lady Eleanor, her faithful manservant Clifford, and elderly (only slightly smelly) bulldog Gladstone. This time sees an untimely death at the royal regatta, lots of murky goings-on, some international espionage, and high (and low) society. The plotting is well rendered and moves along at a good clip. The dialogue is entertaining (if not really period accurate) and the characters are well written and witty.
It's a fast and undemanding read; the language is clean, the crimes are not written violently or explicitly and the denouement is satisfying and well written. For readers looking for verisimilitude in dialogue and action, be warned, this series is full of modern vernacular and sensibilities. Eleanor fraternizes with the servants and runs a shockingly lax estate. However, fans of classic golden age interwar British mysteries will find a lot to appeal here.
Four stars, a decidedly exuberant and whimsical romp. There are now 12 books in the series. This is a prime candidate for a long weekend binge read. Although each of the books is self contained, I recommend reading them in order (though it's not absolutely necessary).
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
A Royal Murder is the 9th Lady Eleanor Swift cozy mystery by pseudonymous writing duo Verity Bright. Released 28th Feb 2022, it's 290 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book (and the rest of the series) are currently included in the KU library to borrow and read for free.
This is such a fun historical cozy series, set in the roaring 20s and featuring amateur society sleuth Lady Eleanor, her faithful manservant Clifford, and elderly (only slightly smelly) bulldog Gladstone. This time sees an untimely death at the royal regatta, lots of murky goings-on, some international espionage, and high (and low) society. The plotting is well rendered and moves along at a good clip. The dialogue is entertaining (if not really period accurate) and the characters are well written and witty.
It's a fast and undemanding read; the language is clean, the crimes are not written violently or explicitly and the denouement is satisfying and well written. For readers looking for verisimilitude in dialogue and action, be warned, this series is full of modern vernacular and sensibilities. Eleanor fraternizes with the servants and runs a shockingly lax estate. However, fans of classic golden age interwar British mysteries will find a lot to appeal here.
Four stars, a decidedly exuberant and whimsical romp. There are now 12 books in the series. This is a prime candidate for a long weekend binge read. Although each of the books is self contained, I recommend reading them in order (though it's not absolutely necessary).
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 20, 2022
It is a delight to return to such a beautifully crafted world! Verity Bright has, in the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery book series, wonderful characters and they are all back in “A Royal Murder”. A royal boat race is the scene of both the murder and of a conflict between our lady investigator and our favourite Detective Seldon! Despite his best efforts to keep Eleanor out of it, when she is asked by the royal police to find the culprit, Detective Seldon realises there are people and places where she can obtain key information easy than he. Soon they are embroiled in more than just murder but perhaps a conspiracy or a crime ring…
I enjoy the banter and repartee between everyone but especially our loyal and multi-skilled retainer, Clifford! Eleanor’s friend is, intentionally, exasperating! Gladstone, the bull dog, is just perfect!
If you enjoy historical cosy mysteries, pick this one up now, and then be sure to enjoy the rest of the series too! It’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale!
Merged review:
It is a delight to return to such a beautifully crafted world! Verity Bright has, in the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery book series, wonderful characters and they are all back in “A Royal Murder”. A royal boat race is the scene of both the murder and of a conflict between our lady investigator and our favourite Detective Seldon! Despite his best efforts to keep Eleanor out of it, when she is asked by the royal police to find the culprit, Detective Seldon realises there are people and places where she can obtain key information easy than he. Soon they are embroiled in more than just murder but perhaps a conspiracy or a crime ring…
I enjoy the banter and repartee between everyone but especially our loyal and multi-skilled retainer, Clifford! Eleanor’s friend is, intentionally, exasperating! Gladstone, the bull dog, is just perfect!
If you enjoy historical cosy mysteries, pick this one up now, and then be sure to enjoy the rest of the series too! It’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale!
I enjoy the banter and repartee between everyone but especially our loyal and multi-skilled retainer, Clifford! Eleanor’s friend is, intentionally, exasperating! Gladstone, the bull dog, is just perfect!
If you enjoy historical cosy mysteries, pick this one up now, and then be sure to enjoy the rest of the series too! It’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale!
Merged review:
It is a delight to return to such a beautifully crafted world! Verity Bright has, in the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery book series, wonderful characters and they are all back in “A Royal Murder”. A royal boat race is the scene of both the murder and of a conflict between our lady investigator and our favourite Detective Seldon! Despite his best efforts to keep Eleanor out of it, when she is asked by the royal police to find the culprit, Detective Seldon realises there are people and places where she can obtain key information easy than he. Soon they are embroiled in more than just murder but perhaps a conspiracy or a crime ring…
I enjoy the banter and repartee between everyone but especially our loyal and multi-skilled retainer, Clifford! Eleanor’s friend is, intentionally, exasperating! Gladstone, the bull dog, is just perfect!
If you enjoy historical cosy mysteries, pick this one up now, and then be sure to enjoy the rest of the series too! It’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale!
April 8, 2025
The latest release in the series had quite a few twists before its final conclusion. I will not talk more about my feelings for some of them because I found a significant clue that led me to figure things out quite early. I would have liked this book even better if that had not happened.
Eleanor has made a new friend, one who wants her to find a more suitable 'beau' than a working man. Especially one who has not had the time to visit since his recuperative stay.
Once she is out in the more vicious social circles, Eleanor is literally thrown to the wolves, and she is lost with regards to etiquette or what it is about the situation that she was supposed to enjoy. This is exactly the point when yet another body falls in front of her. This time, she is asked to make a formal investigation. Her trusty butler and her well-defined lists come to her aid yet again as she starts to piece the pieces of the puzzle together. There are international relationships at stake this time around, and either no one is lying, or every one is. The investigation is very thorough but not unexpected in the directions that it took.
I think we might be inching closer to figuring out the possibilities behind the parental disappearance/uncle's death. I really hope either is addressed sooner rather than later.
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.
Eleanor has made a new friend, one who wants her to find a more suitable 'beau' than a working man. Especially one who has not had the time to visit since his recuperative stay.
Once she is out in the more vicious social circles, Eleanor is literally thrown to the wolves, and she is lost with regards to etiquette or what it is about the situation that she was supposed to enjoy. This is exactly the point when yet another body falls in front of her. This time, she is asked to make a formal investigation. Her trusty butler and her well-defined lists come to her aid yet again as she starts to piece the pieces of the puzzle together. There are international relationships at stake this time around, and either no one is lying, or every one is. The investigation is very thorough but not unexpected in the directions that it took.
I think we might be inching closer to figuring out the possibilities behind the parental disappearance/uncle's death. I really hope either is addressed sooner rather than later.
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.
July 5, 2022
A cute cozy mystery, but definitely not my favorite. The dialogue took a while to get used to and I kept getting jumbled up with what time period we were in. It very much felt like the book was set in the late 1800's oftentimes, but is actually set in the 1920's. I didn't get fun 1920's vibes at all. This is the 9th book in a series that i've never read, but it's a series that you can jump in at any time and not actually be confused.
The mystery was okay, but it was laid out in a really simple format and sometimes got boring. I guessed the murderer towards the beginning of the book but didn't really know why or the reasoning till the end. The pace picked up at the end and the story felt more engaging, but it sometimes moved too fast and I felt like I was missing plot points. Overall a cozy mystery, if you're looking for one, but there's other cozies that I enjoy more.
The mystery was okay, but it was laid out in a really simple format and sometimes got boring. I guessed the murderer towards the beginning of the book but didn't really know why or the reasoning till the end. The pace picked up at the end and the story felt more engaging, but it sometimes moved too fast and I felt like I was missing plot points. Overall a cozy mystery, if you're looking for one, but there's other cozies that I enjoy more.
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