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Lord and Lady Hetheridge #7
Untrue Blue
"Tony, something’s wrong inside the Met. It’s upside down. Like looking at the skyline and seeing Elizabeth Tower on her head. You sense it, don’t you?”
For Lord Anthony Hetheridge, this wet April should be full of promise. His wife, Kate, is on bedrest for her final month of pregnancy, and his friend DI Deepal "Paul" Bhar's firstborn, a darling baby girl, has already arrived. Wellegrave House is restored and the Hetheridges are back where they belong, in the heart of Mayfair. But inside Scotland Yard, the institution Tony served for so many years, something is very wrong.
When the body of Tony's former protege, DC Amelia Gulls, is found murdered in her flat, suspicion immediately falls on her boyfriend, DC Sean Kincaid. And when Paul calls in Tony to assist with the investigation, they turn up more questions than answers. Before her death, Gulls was working on three cold cases: a kept woman hurled out the window of her fourth-floor love nest, a uni student who drowned in the Thames, and a retired detective's drug-addicted son found dead under a tree. As Tony probes these seemingly unsolvable cases, he draws closer to a shocking truth--and a dangerous reckoning.
UNTRUE BLUE is the seventh book in the ongoing Lord & Lady Hetheridge Mystery Series. The series' first omnibus, DEADLY TRIO, appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists, and all the books have made appearances, often at #1, on Kindle bestseller lists. The author, Emma Jameson, would like to take this opportunity to once again to thank her readers for their lovely messages of support. The most common question she's asked is, "Will you keep writing Lord & Lady Hetheridge books?" The answer is a resounding yes.
For Lord Anthony Hetheridge, this wet April should be full of promise. His wife, Kate, is on bedrest for her final month of pregnancy, and his friend DI Deepal "Paul" Bhar's firstborn, a darling baby girl, has already arrived. Wellegrave House is restored and the Hetheridges are back where they belong, in the heart of Mayfair. But inside Scotland Yard, the institution Tony served for so many years, something is very wrong.
When the body of Tony's former protege, DC Amelia Gulls, is found murdered in her flat, suspicion immediately falls on her boyfriend, DC Sean Kincaid. And when Paul calls in Tony to assist with the investigation, they turn up more questions than answers. Before her death, Gulls was working on three cold cases: a kept woman hurled out the window of her fourth-floor love nest, a uni student who drowned in the Thames, and a retired detective's drug-addicted son found dead under a tree. As Tony probes these seemingly unsolvable cases, he draws closer to a shocking truth--and a dangerous reckoning.
UNTRUE BLUE is the seventh book in the ongoing Lord & Lady Hetheridge Mystery Series. The series' first omnibus, DEADLY TRIO, appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists, and all the books have made appearances, often at #1, on Kindle bestseller lists. The author, Emma Jameson, would like to take this opportunity to once again to thank her readers for their lovely messages of support. The most common question she's asked is, "Will you keep writing Lord & Lady Hetheridge books?" The answer is a resounding yes.
330 pages, ebook
First published November 29, 2021
756 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
June 27, 2022
This series has just got better and better with each successive book. Please let this not be the last one! I am sure there must be many tales left yet to tell about Tony, Kate and Paul, and all the other wonderful characters they share their lives with.
In Untrue Blue Kate is on permanent bed rest for the last month of her pregnancy and she is not suffering in silence! Her work means everything to her so Tony sensibly elects to bring home some of the detective work for her to share. A lot of the book takes place in her bedroom including work meetings and an unexpected baby shower party.
Meanwhile Paul and Tony are out looking for a murderer and one who is targeting police officers no less. The finale when they work out who is responsible is tense and dangerous and causes them to miss an important event. All's well that ends well and this book ends very well. I just need to be assured now that there will be more!
In Untrue Blue Kate is on permanent bed rest for the last month of her pregnancy and she is not suffering in silence! Her work means everything to her so Tony sensibly elects to bring home some of the detective work for her to share. A lot of the book takes place in her bedroom including work meetings and an unexpected baby shower party.
Meanwhile Paul and Tony are out looking for a murderer and one who is targeting police officers no less. The finale when they work out who is responsible is tense and dangerous and causes them to miss an important event. All's well that ends well and this book ends very well. I just need to be assured now that there will be more!
July 2, 2022
Last April I "binge-read" the Lord and Lady Hetheridge series on my Kindle phone app. I wrote to Ms. Jameson to thank her for providing me such great distraction as we eased into our Covid isolation. She told me she was working on what would probably be named "Untrue Blue" so I was delighted to see that it was available this week. The crimes were complicated and sad but I am not as demoralized as I sometimes am when I read a murder mystery because the life of Tony and Kate redeems the ugliness of the crimes. Their relationship with Kate's brother and her nephew Henry who needs love and gets it (and gives it!) is lovely to read. And now there is baby Hetheridge too! I look forward to #8. Ms. Jameson promises us more of the Hetheridges! I wonder how long I will have to wait.
December 5, 2021
Emma Jameson is an auto-buy for me. My favourite series of hers is the Lord and Lady Hetheridge mysteries.
This latest book focuses on police corruption and the everyday, casual discrimination against women by the old boys network. All wrapped up in an interesting way with several murders that our favourite Toff Squad investigates. Even though Kate is on bed rest, she manages to keep her hand in from home. Paul and Tony carry a good portion of the workload in this book which enables us to watch as they both struggle to cope with their new family relationships plus work. They are really changing and growing in good ways.
I must say the climactic scene (with the piano) was fabulous. It definitely rivals the rooftop scene from Blue Blooded for suspense. Had me on the edge of my seat!
I particularly loved the small breakfast scene between Tony and Henry. It was so well written and so ‘real’ that it brought tears to my eye. It was like I was right there in the room with them.
I enjoyed the Lady Vivian and Lady Margaret cameo…I’d love to see more of them. Maybe there will be a story centered around them sometime?
There was a lot going on in this book and it was well worth spending money and time on it.
This latest book focuses on police corruption and the everyday, casual discrimination against women by the old boys network. All wrapped up in an interesting way with several murders that our favourite Toff Squad investigates. Even though Kate is on bed rest, she manages to keep her hand in from home. Paul and Tony carry a good portion of the workload in this book which enables us to watch as they both struggle to cope with their new family relationships plus work. They are really changing and growing in good ways.
I must say the climactic scene (with the piano) was fabulous. It definitely rivals the rooftop scene from Blue Blooded for suspense. Had me on the edge of my seat!
I particularly loved the small breakfast scene between Tony and Henry. It was so well written and so ‘real’ that it brought tears to my eye. It was like I was right there in the room with them.
I enjoyed the Lady Vivian and Lady Margaret cameo…I’d love to see more of them. Maybe there will be a story centered around them sometime?
There was a lot going on in this book and it was well worth spending money and time on it.
September 7, 2025
The story begins with a tragic death, and the H must solve it. The now very pregnant h is on bed rest, and for once the boys are behaving. A great who-dun-it, with a view of their complex family life. Loved it.
December 10, 2021
A new Lord and Lady Hetheridge book by Emma Jameson is a read I always look forward to, as the characters and the plot are steadfast in their deliverance of an entertaining, thrilling story. Untrue Blue is the 7th book in this series, and once again, it's my favorite. I've had seven favorites now. Jameson never shies away from taking the characters on a roller coaster of emotions, and readers are swept up (and down) in those emotions, too. The stories are fraught with danger for the characters, too, and the suspense that builds toward a confrontation with evil causes me to remind myself to breathe.
I can't stress enough how this series should be read in order, starting with Blue Ice. There's just too much great story and character development that you would miss if you did otherwise. Where the characters are in Untrue Blue means so much more when the reader has suffered through their growing pains with them.
Do not read past this point if you are just starting the series.
In Untrue Blue, Kate (Lady Hetheridge) is on leave from the London Metropolitan Police and on bed rest for her final month of pregnancy. Tony (Lord Hetheridge), retired from his position of a Superintendent in the MET, is fully into his work as a PI and sometimes consultant to the police. DI Paul Bhar is a delighted new father and is married to Emmeline. There's lots of good feeling for these couples and friends, but a death among Kate's and Paul's colleagues stuns everyone (and readers). DC Amelia Gulls is discovered dead in her flat, murdered by an unknown assailant. Even though Kate is on bed rest, she joins Paul and Tony, who has been called in as a consultant, in trying to find the murderer. Granted that Kate has to work at home, but she and Amelia shared a bond of females struggling to be taken seriously on the force, so she will do what she can from her bedroom confinement.
Amelia Gulls had been working as an extra pair of hands on three separate cases, and the investigation into her death starts with looking at what she had found on those cases. Turns out that there are cross-over connections in two of the cases that will lead those investigating on a wild ride, a ride that readers will follow on the edge of their seats. I prefer to let readers experience the investigation without further description on my part. It's complex and exciting, and the losses leave big questions on who will fill certain shoes in the next book. Enjoy.
I can't stress enough how this series should be read in order, starting with Blue Ice. There's just too much great story and character development that you would miss if you did otherwise. Where the characters are in Untrue Blue means so much more when the reader has suffered through their growing pains with them.
Do not read past this point if you are just starting the series.
In Untrue Blue, Kate (Lady Hetheridge) is on leave from the London Metropolitan Police and on bed rest for her final month of pregnancy. Tony (Lord Hetheridge), retired from his position of a Superintendent in the MET, is fully into his work as a PI and sometimes consultant to the police. DI Paul Bhar is a delighted new father and is married to Emmeline. There's lots of good feeling for these couples and friends, but a death among Kate's and Paul's colleagues stuns everyone (and readers). DC Amelia Gulls is discovered dead in her flat, murdered by an unknown assailant. Even though Kate is on bed rest, she joins Paul and Tony, who has been called in as a consultant, in trying to find the murderer. Granted that Kate has to work at home, but she and Amelia shared a bond of females struggling to be taken seriously on the force, so she will do what she can from her bedroom confinement.
Amelia Gulls had been working as an extra pair of hands on three separate cases, and the investigation into her death starts with looking at what she had found on those cases. Turns out that there are cross-over connections in two of the cases that will lead those investigating on a wild ride, a ride that readers will follow on the edge of their seats. I prefer to let readers experience the investigation without further description on my part. It's complex and exciting, and the losses leave big questions on who will fill certain shoes in the next book. Enjoy.
December 21, 2021
UNTRUE BLUE by Emma Jameson
has so many puzzles to solve, and so much loss, a most compelling tale.
I was glad for the much-needed happier aspects of the ending (and no, I won’t spoil it) with unexpectedly sensible intervention and clever problem solving. I found myself dancing with joy along with other friends . . . and I do feel like a friend of the family, ready for more visits.
I did not see the solutions to the cold cases or the link to the murderer, cleverly done indeed, with subtle hints but not obvious. Justice prevails, but not without cost, and the repercussions of betrayals will continue for years . . . but will be dealt with in future books I hope.
has so many puzzles to solve, and so much loss, a most compelling tale.
I was glad for the much-needed happier aspects of the ending (and no, I won’t spoil it) with unexpectedly sensible intervention and clever problem solving. I found myself dancing with joy along with other friends . . . and I do feel like a friend of the family, ready for more visits.
I did not see the solutions to the cold cases or the link to the murderer, cleverly done indeed, with subtle hints but not obvious. Justice prevails, but not without cost, and the repercussions of betrayals will continue for years . . . but will be dealt with in future books I hope.
August 4, 2025
A new DS with tons of potential is found murdered. Kate is on bedrest, nearing the end of her pregnancy, and Tony is consulting on some cases as a PI. Could Amelia have been murdered by her boyfriend, who is also a copper? Or could she have found out something incriminating about a powerful person? One of the cases involves interviewing an extremely obnoxious businessman whose daughter was killed. He vehemently denies that his daughter had a wealthy sugar daddy, although her lifestyle would suggest that. He complained that his wife left with the handsome pool boy when his children were young, but did she? Recommended for fans of British police procedurals.
December 30, 2021
Interesting cozy
This latest tale of Kate, Tony, Paul, and all their supporting characters was entertaining and suspenseful. It would have been more enjoyable if proofreading had taken place.
This latest tale of Kate, Tony, Paul, and all their supporting characters was entertaining and suspenseful. It would have been more enjoyable if proofreading had taken place.
August 19, 2025
Love these stories!
December 19, 2021
Family comes in all shapes
This Georgia girl comes home to London every time I can sit down with a book from Emma Jameson's "Blue" series. My good friends Tony and Kate Hetheridge live such exciting lives and I love trying to figure out how they'll make it through another heart pounding adventure. Mostly their hearts are pounding due to the pending birth of their child and hoping he/she won't be early but as they wait, friends are dying and Lord Hetheridge is called on to help Paul investigate. And you can't leave a very pregnant Kate out! Henry is such a bonus character for this book. He has to learn where his place will be beside his adopted father Tony when his "blue blood" child does come. Another wonderful addition to one of my favorite series!
This Georgia girl comes home to London every time I can sit down with a book from Emma Jameson's "Blue" series. My good friends Tony and Kate Hetheridge live such exciting lives and I love trying to figure out how they'll make it through another heart pounding adventure. Mostly their hearts are pounding due to the pending birth of their child and hoping he/she won't be early but as they wait, friends are dying and Lord Hetheridge is called on to help Paul investigate. And you can't leave a very pregnant Kate out! Henry is such a bonus character for this book. He has to learn where his place will be beside his adopted father Tony when his "blue blood" child does come. Another wonderful addition to one of my favorite series!
December 20, 2021
Love this series! The characters and their personalities are so vibrant. Watching their lives and fortunes change over the series has been a delight. Their interactions are so true to life. Three investigations overlap unexpectedly and the toff squad is devastated when two of its members are murdered.
December 18, 2021
Another hit from Emma Jameson...
I first started reading the Blue series written by Emma Jameson years ago. I am an avid fan not only of the story line but also of the way she moves the story right along without losing rhythm. I look forward to more in this series as well as the Dr. Bones series. Thanks so for this excellent read.
I first started reading the Blue series written by Emma Jameson years ago. I am an avid fan not only of the story line but also of the way she moves the story right along without losing rhythm. I look forward to more in this series as well as the Dr. Bones series. Thanks so for this excellent read.
December 12, 2021
UNTRUE BLUE by Emma Jameson is the 7th book in the Lord & Lady Hetheridge Mystery series.
I have read every title and each one has been ‘top-notch’ - excellent readability, likable characters, a London location, good plots.
I am a big fan and would highly recommend this title, UNTRUE BLUE, and the series. ****
“When the body of Tony’s former protege, DC Amelia Gulls, is found murdered in her flat, suspicion immediately falls on her boyfriend, DC Sean Kincaid. And when Paul calls in Tony to assist with the investigation, they turn up more questions than answers.”
I have read every title and each one has been ‘top-notch’ - excellent readability, likable characters, a London location, good plots.
I am a big fan and would highly recommend this title, UNTRUE BLUE, and the series. ****
“When the body of Tony’s former protege, DC Amelia Gulls, is found murdered in her flat, suspicion immediately falls on her boyfriend, DC Sean Kincaid. And when Paul calls in Tony to assist with the investigation, they turn up more questions than answers.”
December 12, 2021
A Worthy Addition to the Lord and Lady He the fridge Series
I enjoyed this story so much - read it in one sitting. I thought Ms. Jameson was done wth the series and was very disappointed. To my delight I found this new adventure with all the great characters returning . Not only a fast paced mystery but endearing love story. Can't wait for the next one.
I enjoyed this story so much - read it in one sitting. I thought Ms. Jameson was done wth the series and was very disappointed. To my delight I found this new adventure with all the great characters returning . Not only a fast paced mystery but endearing love story. Can't wait for the next one.
December 9, 2021
another notch in the series
So many changes in Lord Hetheridge’s life - this perhaps a multifaceted series of murders, opportunities and the constancy of family. It is all well handled, both with the authority and aplomb of the Chief, but with Jameson’s lovely writing and character style. I’ve enjoyed all of her books, and indeed have most purchased on my kindle. This one is also the furthering of the series, as well as the dynasty. I was delighted with all the familiar characters and their roles. Difficult subject matter (murder, horror films!) even tho offstage.
So many changes in Lord Hetheridge’s life - this perhaps a multifaceted series of murders, opportunities and the constancy of family. It is all well handled, both with the authority and aplomb of the Chief, but with Jameson’s lovely writing and character style. I’ve enjoyed all of her books, and indeed have most purchased on my kindle. This one is also the furthering of the series, as well as the dynasty. I was delighted with all the familiar characters and their roles. Difficult subject matter (murder, horror films!) even tho offstage.
December 6, 2021
I highly recommend this series, one of my all time favs! Start at the beginning with Ice Blue, you’ll want to learn about the main characters who you’ll grow to love through out the series. Great storylines, plenty of mystery, murder and mayhem but also tenderness, love and sometimes heartbreak.
Ok now stop reading these reviews, and start reading this book/series!!!
Ok now stop reading these reviews, and start reading this book/series!!!
December 6, 2021
Time and time again…
Emma Jameson has yet again surprised and delighted me with this new story. As I have said before, start with “Ice Blue” and you won’t be able to stop until you’ve finished this last installment of the Tony and Kate Show, and along with all her other fans will eagerly (if impatiently) await Emma Jameson’s next book in this incredible series.
Emma Jameson has yet again surprised and delighted me with this new story. As I have said before, start with “Ice Blue” and you won’t be able to stop until you’ve finished this last installment of the Tony and Kate Show, and along with all her other fans will eagerly (if impatiently) await Emma Jameson’s next book in this incredible series.
November 30, 2023
The anticipated arrival of Kate and Tony Hetheridge's baby is eclipsed by the news that one of their colleagues has been murdered. Tony, now forcibly retired from the Metropolitan Police Force, is commissioned as a consultant while Kate fumes on her enforced bed rest. What led to the officer's death, and did it have anything to do with her cold case work?
The author took an immense risk pulling one of her main characters from the action, but while I did miss Kate working the case (and sparring with her teammate, Paul), this gamble paid off. This diversion from the norm lent authenticity to the story and allowed a closer focus on Tony and Paul.
This police procedural series has been one of my favourites for some time now, and I eagerly look forward to the direction the series will take.
The author took an immense risk pulling one of her main characters from the action, but while I did miss Kate working the case (and sparring with her teammate, Paul), this gamble paid off. This diversion from the norm lent authenticity to the story and allowed a closer focus on Tony and Paul.
This police procedural series has been one of my favourites for some time now, and I eagerly look forward to the direction the series will take.
Read
June 17, 2024DNF
For some reason, most mystery writers put their detectives in great deal of danger during their investigations. That's why I dislike mysteries. I don't enjoy reading about people I like risking their lives. Dorothy Sayers, on the other hand, writes about her sleuth Peter Whimsey solving mysteries as intellectual puzzles. There is no danger to Peter, and I like it that way. Agatha Christie wrote in the similar vein, and her worldwide fame speaks for itself. Unfortunately for me, such mystery writers are rare nowadays.
This series started as a police procedural, with little danger to the heroes, and I enjoyed the first few installments. But as the series progressed, the danger to the protagonists escalated. It came to a head in the book #5, Blue Blooded, which was my least favorite of the series.
This book seems to head in the same direction. I only read a couple chapters so far, but I'm reluctant to continue it. I don't want to see the heroes in danger again. I might read it to the end eventually, but for now, it is a DNF.
For some reason, most mystery writers put their detectives in great deal of danger during their investigations. That's why I dislike mysteries. I don't enjoy reading about people I like risking their lives. Dorothy Sayers, on the other hand, writes about her sleuth Peter Whimsey solving mysteries as intellectual puzzles. There is no danger to Peter, and I like it that way. Agatha Christie wrote in the similar vein, and her worldwide fame speaks for itself. Unfortunately for me, such mystery writers are rare nowadays.
This series started as a police procedural, with little danger to the heroes, and I enjoyed the first few installments. But as the series progressed, the danger to the protagonists escalated. It came to a head in the book #5, Blue Blooded, which was my least favorite of the series.
This book seems to head in the same direction. I only read a couple chapters so far, but I'm reluctant to continue it. I don't want to see the heroes in danger again. I might read it to the end eventually, but for now, it is a DNF.
January 14, 2024
The death of Amelia Gulls, a character I loved, was a shock. The determination of Tony, Paul, and Kate, from her bed rest, was evident.
They work on the cases she had to try to sort through who might have killed her, and it leads them to an entitled, delusional, father who saw his perfect daughter as an angel, a mother who believes her son’s boyfriend killed him, and a cop whose son was found and is suspected of killing him.
Each case leads them nowhere on Amelia, but eventually, other threads come together, especially when Vic Jackson, another cop, is killed.
I wondered about one person, but equally thought of others that could have done it. Still, not surprising, but sad that Gulls is gone, she was a favourite.
It was fun to hear about Paul’s little Evvy, and amazing Henry’s part in Kate’s birthing of Nipper.
As always, I can’t wait for more.
They work on the cases she had to try to sort through who might have killed her, and it leads them to an entitled, delusional, father who saw his perfect daughter as an angel, a mother who believes her son’s boyfriend killed him, and a cop whose son was found and is suspected of killing him.
Each case leads them nowhere on Amelia, but eventually, other threads come together, especially when Vic Jackson, another cop, is killed.
I wondered about one person, but equally thought of others that could have done it. Still, not surprising, but sad that Gulls is gone, she was a favourite.
It was fun to hear about Paul’s little Evvy, and amazing Henry’s part in Kate’s birthing of Nipper.
As always, I can’t wait for more.
July 7, 2024
I hadn’t read a couple of Emma Jameson’s books, about British Police mysteries, in the series about the Hetheridges. It was a long time since I read “Ice Blue” and forgot how excellent Ms. Jameson’s writing is. She is a “classic” extremely educated writer, and her books are amazing with excellent plots, fast-paced writing and interesting characters. Her prose is crisp and provides an engaging narrative with well-crafted sentences.
In “Untrue Blue”, Kate Hetheridge is in the last stages of her pregnancy and Tony (a retired Police Superintendent and now a Private Investigator) is consulted by the Police when a couple of policemen are murdered. He is stressed, coping with investigating these murders and looking after Kate, who is bed-resting with her pregnancy because her doctor said she cannot become excited. A wonderful colleague, Amelia Gulls, was one of the murdered police people, and DI Paul Bhar, Tony and Kate are devastated at her loss.
The characters are wonderful, and Henry, Tony’s adopted son, is the hero of the story when he comes to Kate’s aid during her hospital visit. I enjoyed Lady Vivian and Lady Margaret. They are an intelligent two and a great advent to the story and often have helped Kate with the background of the British Aristocracy during her past investigations.
“Untrue Blue” thrusts readers into a suspenseful world where policemen are murdered, leaving Tony and Kate devastated. The urgency of the investigation intensifies as Kate’s pregnancy complicates matters. Jameson skillfully keeps readers on edge, making the book difficult to put down. Jameson’s crisp prose propels the story forward. Each sentence serves a purpose, maintaining a brisk pace. Scenes unfold seamlessly, and the tension builds organically.
I can attest that the ending satisfies on multiple levels. Jameson ties up loose ends while leaving room for future adventures.
I enjoyed this book so much that I immediately purchased the other two books I had missed. For fans of British Police mysteries, I wholeheartedly recommend starting with “Ice Blue.” Witness the character development from the beginning and immerse yourself in Jameson’s masterful storytelling.
In “Untrue Blue”, Kate Hetheridge is in the last stages of her pregnancy and Tony (a retired Police Superintendent and now a Private Investigator) is consulted by the Police when a couple of policemen are murdered. He is stressed, coping with investigating these murders and looking after Kate, who is bed-resting with her pregnancy because her doctor said she cannot become excited. A wonderful colleague, Amelia Gulls, was one of the murdered police people, and DI Paul Bhar, Tony and Kate are devastated at her loss.
The characters are wonderful, and Henry, Tony’s adopted son, is the hero of the story when he comes to Kate’s aid during her hospital visit. I enjoyed Lady Vivian and Lady Margaret. They are an intelligent two and a great advent to the story and often have helped Kate with the background of the British Aristocracy during her past investigations.
“Untrue Blue” thrusts readers into a suspenseful world where policemen are murdered, leaving Tony and Kate devastated. The urgency of the investigation intensifies as Kate’s pregnancy complicates matters. Jameson skillfully keeps readers on edge, making the book difficult to put down. Jameson’s crisp prose propels the story forward. Each sentence serves a purpose, maintaining a brisk pace. Scenes unfold seamlessly, and the tension builds organically.
I can attest that the ending satisfies on multiple levels. Jameson ties up loose ends while leaving room for future adventures.
I enjoyed this book so much that I immediately purchased the other two books I had missed. For fans of British Police mysteries, I wholeheartedly recommend starting with “Ice Blue.” Witness the character development from the beginning and immerse yourself in Jameson’s masterful storytelling.
July 21, 2025
I read the lst lord and lady book some years ago and it left me puzzled. So here am I again tackling my second book of this long series by the look of it! I suppose what makes it seem odd is that the actual word "toff" is a very derogatory word in Britain, demeaning, (but it was in use in books written in the 1920s-40s), so in what decade is this series supposed to be set?? For me this is a bit of a distraction to the book's storyline itself.
Well as his lordship (archaic! He would just be using his work title, ie Superintendent) is driving an electric car and he asks Alexa I'm assuming it is, to turn down the lighting in the bedroom, it's set recently! It just seems out of its own time somehow. The story line is okay but having a member of the aristocracy tootling around sorting out murders in an electric car and living in a mansion in the city with servants is just far out!!! I mean the man never rushes anywhere and even his speech seems decades old. The storyline was good. A bit more research into the ancient aristocracts of a bygone era might be useful but introducing them into the modern day would need an end to servants, mansions, jobs which they wouldn't be entering and definitely definitely not using the derogatory word "toff" (this is an insult) in anything after the 1940s would be good!
These books do seem out of their time but written in the present day with more knowledge of British policing they would be more passable to British readers! (But don't mention "toff"!).
Well as his lordship (archaic! He would just be using his work title, ie Superintendent) is driving an electric car and he asks Alexa I'm assuming it is, to turn down the lighting in the bedroom, it's set recently! It just seems out of its own time somehow. The story line is okay but having a member of the aristocracy tootling around sorting out murders in an electric car and living in a mansion in the city with servants is just far out!!! I mean the man never rushes anywhere and even his speech seems decades old. The storyline was good. A bit more research into the ancient aristocracts of a bygone era might be useful but introducing them into the modern day would need an end to servants, mansions, jobs which they wouldn't be entering and definitely definitely not using the derogatory word "toff" (this is an insult) in anything after the 1940s would be good!
These books do seem out of their time but written in the present day with more knowledge of British policing they would be more passable to British readers! (But don't mention "toff"!).
April 11, 2022
The core characters may not be as understandable to make this an easy stand alone, but the incredibly complex/convoluted mysteries of various seemingly unconnected unsolved murders make this book beyond exceptional. The core characters are members of the "Toff Squad" and their forcibly retired "Gov" turned police consultant. There are a lot of personal/family goings on with them that runs in the background.
The murders they are called on to investigate, while seemingly unrelated, are all directly or indirectly tied to Scotland Yard. Including a young recent member of their team. So there they are, juggling an assortment of high profile murders while facing all the noise and bluster of those who allege corruption in the department including cover ups and worse.
I suspect that if one is new to Lord and Lady Hetheridge Mysteries, this one will encourage a binge through the earlier books. This one is not as hysterically funny as the others, but some parts still made me spew my tea.
Not sure what else to say without giving the game away, but I did love it and hope for more!
I really appreciate the talents of voice actor Matthew Lloyd Davies to help me with easy differentiation of so many characters in the audio, and he always underplays the scenes!
The murders they are called on to investigate, while seemingly unrelated, are all directly or indirectly tied to Scotland Yard. Including a young recent member of their team. So there they are, juggling an assortment of high profile murders while facing all the noise and bluster of those who allege corruption in the department including cover ups and worse.
I suspect that if one is new to Lord and Lady Hetheridge Mysteries, this one will encourage a binge through the earlier books. This one is not as hysterically funny as the others, but some parts still made me spew my tea.
Not sure what else to say without giving the game away, but I did love it and hope for more!
I really appreciate the talents of voice actor Matthew Lloyd Davies to help me with easy differentiation of so many characters in the audio, and he always underplays the scenes!
January 4, 2022
The strength of the Hetheridge series are the strong characters in a thoroughly English setting. The murder mysteries and the political wrangling is interesting but the well-developed and appealing characters are what draw me back to the books over and over. The darkness and ugliness of crimes and murders is contrasted with the steadfastness and love between Tony and Kate. And their relationship with and watchcare of Kate's mentally handicapped brother and her smart, curious nephew Henry who needs love and gets it is heartwarming. In this installment, Kate is on maternity bed rest, which sidelines her from active investigation. With Kate unavailable, the "Toff Squad" is down on personnel to investigate the murder of one of their own, DC Amelia Gulls. Her boyfriend DC Sean Kincaid is a suspect so he is out too. So DI Paul Bhar calls in Tony Hetheridge to consult. The main investigation is over the professional strangling of Amelia, but she was investigating three other open murder cases which might have led to her murder. Lots of clues and red herrings to keep the story twisting and turning.
February 28, 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book series! This one marks the last one currently in print, though I see that an 8th installment is announced for release next month.
I have tried several times to figure out what genre these books fall in. They aren't cozy mysteries, really, because there are some pretty intense parts in them, though those represent a very small portion of the overall book. They are very character driven, and generally light and easy to read with just a little adrenaline-pumping excitement in the final chapters of each. I have taken to calling them very light police procedurals.
In this one, Kate is on bedrest for the final weeks of her pregnancy, and one of the secondary characters from previous books has been murdered. There is a lot of continuing character development for the main characters, but the work on trying to solve their colleague's murder is front and center. The author did a good job of keeping Kate involved and believable even while on bedrest. For those who have been following the series, there are some scenes with young Henry at the very end that would make the whole book worth it on their own.
I have tried several times to figure out what genre these books fall in. They aren't cozy mysteries, really, because there are some pretty intense parts in them, though those represent a very small portion of the overall book. They are very character driven, and generally light and easy to read with just a little adrenaline-pumping excitement in the final chapters of each. I have taken to calling them very light police procedurals.
In this one, Kate is on bedrest for the final weeks of her pregnancy, and one of the secondary characters from previous books has been murdered. There is a lot of continuing character development for the main characters, but the work on trying to solve their colleague's murder is front and center. The author did a good job of keeping Kate involved and believable even while on bedrest. For those who have been following the series, there are some scenes with young Henry at the very end that would make the whole book worth it on their own.
July 24, 2025
3* bad editing
The books each contain a stand-alone police case with the advance in time of Tony and Paul's private lives.
Ex-Chief Superintendent Lord Anthony Hetheridge and his wife Kate, have recovered from their recent injuries (Blue Christmas) and waiting for the birth of their first child when a police officer colleague is murdered. Tony is brought in to assist the investigating officer DI Deepal "Paul" Bhar.
I've enjoyed the previous books in the series, but there's only so much you can do with murder mysteries containing the same setting and characters. There's the main investigator, Tony, retired from the force, his progressing private life, a murder or several, various villains, possible red herrings and the reappearance of many characters from other books.
The series is set in England, mostly in London, the continual use of American spelling and US terms is annoying. Beta readers will catch mistakes, proofreading would correct any remaining errors. There's no excuse for bad editing, it's unprofessional, therefore 3*.
Having said that I might continue reading the series, the books are light entertainment with a satisfactory ending.
The books each contain a stand-alone police case with the advance in time of Tony and Paul's private lives.
Ex-Chief Superintendent Lord Anthony Hetheridge and his wife Kate, have recovered from their recent injuries (Blue Christmas) and waiting for the birth of their first child when a police officer colleague is murdered. Tony is brought in to assist the investigating officer DI Deepal "Paul" Bhar.
I've enjoyed the previous books in the series, but there's only so much you can do with murder mysteries containing the same setting and characters. There's the main investigator, Tony, retired from the force, his progressing private life, a murder or several, various villains, possible red herrings and the reappearance of many characters from other books.
The series is set in England, mostly in London, the continual use of American spelling and US terms is annoying. Beta readers will catch mistakes, proofreading would correct any remaining errors. There's no excuse for bad editing, it's unprofessional, therefore 3*.
Having said that I might continue reading the series, the books are light entertainment with a satisfactory ending.
December 24, 2025
Goodbyes and hellos
It’s sad to say goodbye to familiar characters like you have to do in this story. Especially sunny natured DC Amelia Gulls. I was looking forward to her participation in future cases when Kate is back in full action.
But the different story lines are so intricately woven—one new murder, three cold cases, and still another death—with a nest of corruption so tightly wound, that you get more caught up in trying to figure out the connections and killers than spending time mourning their passing.
In this, you truly do get to be an armchair detective and develop real time detective pragmatism in tabling your emotions.
As a counterbalance to their departures, we can happily welcome the newest member of the Hetheridge household. Plus, let’s give an enthusiastic nod to how smoothly Henry, Tony, and Kate work together to acclimate Ritchie—who’s been chanting, “No baby!” for months— to the new arrival. Well done!
It’s sad to say goodbye to familiar characters like you have to do in this story. Especially sunny natured DC Amelia Gulls. I was looking forward to her participation in future cases when Kate is back in full action.
But the different story lines are so intricately woven—one new murder, three cold cases, and still another death—with a nest of corruption so tightly wound, that you get more caught up in trying to figure out the connections and killers than spending time mourning their passing.
In this, you truly do get to be an armchair detective and develop real time detective pragmatism in tabling your emotions.
As a counterbalance to their departures, we can happily welcome the newest member of the Hetheridge household. Plus, let’s give an enthusiastic nod to how smoothly Henry, Tony, and Kate work together to acclimate Ritchie—who’s been chanting, “No baby!” for months— to the new arrival. Well done!
May 25, 2022
This mystery ran the gamut of emotions, with sadness and a sense of waste and loss dominating many portions, as it should with murders. The plot and characters were complex enough to keep my interest high throughout. Each main character in the Hetheridge mysteries has a distinct voice that rings true to their personality and background, and quirks that have endeared them to me over time. Because they grow and develop in response to the challenges in each book, they have a three dimensionality that sticks with me, making me miss them while I wait for the next book. Few authors are able to portray marriage and family life in a way that is both real and desirable. Jameson is a master at it. Having read one book out of order, I then binge-read the whole series and waited with anticipation for this one. It was worth it.
November 14, 2023
BOOK REVIEWER -OKOKO AYEZU TAMARAPREYE
BOOK:UNTRUE BLUE (LORD AND LADY HETHERIDGE MUSTERY SERIES NO 7 BY EMMA JAMESON
On through be lee you,An through be lee you/hue or Earn through /true be lee you is an insider crime fiction investigation concerning detectives in the announcement by Tony Hetheridge to his wife Kate of detective Amelia (Am-ill-lee-ah/Am-a-lee-ah/Am-ill-lee-ah) as dead(the after depth/dearth) and investigation, suspicion and accusation of Kincaid her supposed lover as having killed(key-illed) her.The story shows active investigation ,even as Kin aid sees the situation of Amelia being called in(in/inn) to keep him busy(biu-zi for presence of two or be hue Zi for presence of the one hued from man)
BOOK:UNTRUE BLUE (LORD AND LADY HETHERIDGE MUSTERY SERIES NO 7 BY EMMA JAMESON
On through be lee you,An through be lee you/hue or Earn through /true be lee you is an insider crime fiction investigation concerning detectives in the announcement by Tony Hetheridge to his wife Kate of detective Amelia (Am-ill-lee-ah/Am-a-lee-ah/Am-ill-lee-ah) as dead(the after depth/dearth) and investigation, suspicion and accusation of Kincaid her supposed lover as having killed(key-illed) her.The story shows active investigation ,even as Kin aid sees the situation of Amelia being called in(in/inn) to keep him busy(biu-zi for presence of two or be hue Zi for presence of the one hued from man)
February 26, 2022
As Good As Expected
I'm a big fan of the Lord and Lady Hetheridge mystery books and this one is no exception. Tony is consulting with the metropolitan police on several infamous murders, the most recent the murder of an up and coming female detective. But that's not all requiring investigation. There's the daughter of wealthy business man tossed out the window of her love nest in a high rise apartment, M not instance and the son of a police detective apparently committing suicide. Meanwhile his wife Kate is in the last stages of pregnancy and on doctor enforced bed rest . But that doesn't prevent her from working on the case with Tony.
I'm a big fan of the Lord and Lady Hetheridge mystery books and this one is no exception. Tony is consulting with the metropolitan police on several infamous murders, the most recent the murder of an up and coming female detective. But that's not all requiring investigation. There's the daughter of wealthy business man tossed out the window of her love nest in a high rise apartment, M not instance and the son of a police detective apparently committing suicide. Meanwhile his wife Kate is in the last stages of pregnancy and on doctor enforced bed rest . But that doesn't prevent her from working on the case with Tony.
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