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Miss Underhay #9
Murder at the Country Club
Kitty Underhay is playing doubles… with death.
Kitty Underhay is accompanying her fiancé, Matthew Bryant, and Bertie, his new cocker spaniel, on an outing to Torbay Country Club. However, the delightful day soon turns to disaster. Walking Bertie in the shaded grotto after an exhilarating archery demonstration, Kitty makes an unsporting discovery: the body of their host, Sir William Winspear, with an arrow in his back.
When the local inspector falls foul interviewing female witnesses, Kitty steps up to the mark. And she quickly discovers that Sir William had threatened one of the guests, dashing Russian dancer Ivan, dependent on him for patronage. When Kitty overhears a damning conversation between Ivan and his sister, the case seems clear. But the next day Ivan has been disqualified as he is found face down in the pool…
The race is on for Kitty to find the real killer, but she must keep her head in the game if she is to outwit this cunning murderer. And when the final score comes in, will it be ‘killer: three, Kitty: zero’…?
Kitty Underhay is accompanying her fiancé, Matthew Bryant, and Bertie, his new cocker spaniel, on an outing to Torbay Country Club. However, the delightful day soon turns to disaster. Walking Bertie in the shaded grotto after an exhilarating archery demonstration, Kitty makes an unsporting discovery: the body of their host, Sir William Winspear, with an arrow in his back.
When the local inspector falls foul interviewing female witnesses, Kitty steps up to the mark. And she quickly discovers that Sir William had threatened one of the guests, dashing Russian dancer Ivan, dependent on him for patronage. When Kitty overhears a damning conversation between Ivan and his sister, the case seems clear. But the next day Ivan has been disqualified as he is found face down in the pool…
The race is on for Kitty to find the real killer, but she must keep her head in the game if she is to outwit this cunning murderer. And when the final score comes in, will it be ‘killer: three, Kitty: zero’…?
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2022
1006 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Helena Dixon
30 books303 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 13, 2022
In this ninth book in the series Helena Dixon takes Kitty and Matt for a day out at an exclusive country club. Kitty is looking forward to afternoon tea on the terrace, and dancing on the very superior dance floor for which the establishment is famous. Instead she finds her host murdered, presumably by one of their party, and so the investigation begins.
I really enjoy this series set in Devon, in a place where I used to holiday as a child. Every time Kitty drives her little red car on to the Dartmouth ferry I experience a little bit of nostalgia for those wonderful family trips I enjoyed such a long time ago now!
Since Kitty and Matt have not yet made it to the altar I am sure there must be at least one more book in the series for us to enjoy. I hope there will be many more than that!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I really enjoy this series set in Devon, in a place where I used to holiday as a child. Every time Kitty drives her little red car on to the Dartmouth ferry I experience a little bit of nostalgia for those wonderful family trips I enjoyed such a long time ago now!
Since Kitty and Matt have not yet made it to the altar I am sure there must be at least one more book in the series for us to enjoy. I hope there will be many more than that!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 12, 2022
Kitty Underhay and her fiancé, Captain Matthew Bryant, along with cocker spaniel Bertie, descended on the Torbay Country Club for an afternoon of sporting entertainment. Matt was to meet with their host, Sir William Winspear, later in the afternoon for an appointment. But when Kitty was walking Bertie through the peaceful grotto, she was shocked to come across the dead body of Sir William. Inspector Greville was soon on the scene and with Matt and Kitty by his side, began to interview all the people concerned.
None the wiser, he allowed the Winspear family and their guests to return to their home not far from the club. That evening, the entertainment continued at the club with Sir William’s wife’s blessing, and Kitty and Matt watched the dancers, Ivan and Natasha, as they enthralled the crowd with their magnificence. The two dancers were also staying with the Winspear family under their patronage, and it was the following day that Ivan was found dead in the swimming pool.
Would Kitty and Matt be able to discover the killer or killers before anyone lost their lives? Kitty was busy at the Dolphin Hotel as well, reluctant to leave it in the hands of her grandmother for too long. Could she juggle the two demanding tasks?
Murder at the Country Club is the 9th in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon and it was brilliant! Entertaining – as each of the series has been so far – light, and although the darkness of murder gripped the pages, it was still a fun historical cozy! I hope the author continues the series for a long time to come. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
None the wiser, he allowed the Winspear family and their guests to return to their home not far from the club. That evening, the entertainment continued at the club with Sir William’s wife’s blessing, and Kitty and Matt watched the dancers, Ivan and Natasha, as they enthralled the crowd with their magnificence. The two dancers were also staying with the Winspear family under their patronage, and it was the following day that Ivan was found dead in the swimming pool.
Would Kitty and Matt be able to discover the killer or killers before anyone lost their lives? Kitty was busy at the Dolphin Hotel as well, reluctant to leave it in the hands of her grandmother for too long. Could she juggle the two demanding tasks?
Murder at the Country Club is the 9th in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon and it was brilliant! Entertaining – as each of the series has been so far – light, and although the darkness of murder gripped the pages, it was still a fun historical cozy! I hope the author continues the series for a long time to come. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2022
This is the ninth book already but the series refuses to go stagnant. Yet another quick and engaging read with the scene of the crime being the newly opened Torbay Country Club. Kitty Underhay and her private investigator fiance Matt Bryant are called upon to flex their sleuthing skills once again when an outing to the newly opened club ends with the murder of Sir William Winspere, a man who invites Matt to visit the club and for whom he has previously done some investigative work. Moreover, Kitty has to now deal with Ester Hamnet, sister of the man who was responsible for Kitty's mother's death, and a far more dangerous adversary. Kitty and Matt are also planning a wedding amidst all these sleuthing adventures and could probably be a scene for something big. The cover picture is as eye catching as all the previous ones.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Helena Dixon for the e-Arc of the book.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Helena Dixon for the e-Arc of the book.
June 18, 2022
This engaging read by Helena Dixon gives Kitty Underhay another opportunity to act as an amateur sleuth. Away for what should be an enjoyable time with her fiancé Matthew Bryant at a posh country club, body of their host, Sir William Winstead, is found by Kitty. There was an arrow in his back. In fact, before his murder, Sir William proudly displayed his archery skills for all to see. Although the police arrive quickly on scene, Kitty doesn’t hesitate to begin interviewing the other guests, especially as the inspector on scene doesn’t get very far. She soon finds that more than one person had motive for killing Sir William.
Suspects to consider include the victim’s much younger wife and a brother-and-sister dancing couple from Russia. Even the servants are not above suspicion. However, when the male dancer is also found murdered, things become much more complicated.
Although this is the ninth book in a thoroughly enjoyable series, readers will be pleased to know that it will work perfectly well as a standalone novel. However, the entire series is a true delight, and will definitely offer many hours of reading pleasure. One thing that makes this series so entertaining is that it is set in the 1930s. The time frame shows that Kitty has to employ crafty skills of deduction as modern conveniences were simply not available at that time. I am truly eager for book ten in the series, Murder on Board, set for release in October.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/cf3To4muGNg
Suspects to consider include the victim’s much younger wife and a brother-and-sister dancing couple from Russia. Even the servants are not above suspicion. However, when the male dancer is also found murdered, things become much more complicated.
Although this is the ninth book in a thoroughly enjoyable series, readers will be pleased to know that it will work perfectly well as a standalone novel. However, the entire series is a true delight, and will definitely offer many hours of reading pleasure. One thing that makes this series so entertaining is that it is set in the 1930s. The time frame shows that Kitty has to employ crafty skills of deduction as modern conveniences were simply not available at that time. I am truly eager for book ten in the series, Murder on Board, set for release in October.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/cf3To4muGNg
June 19, 2022
One of my favorite historical cozy mystery series!
Kitty Underhay is back for her 9th adventure as she and her fiance, Matthew Bryant, become involved in a case of murder and mishap at the swanky Torbay Country Club. Inspector Greville asks them to sit in on the interviews of the Winspear family and their guests, Russian siblings and professional dancers, Ivan and Natasha Bolsolva. One of the cohort surely killed Sir William Winspear in the grotto with a broken arrow.
I really enjoy the period details and the setting -- including that of the Dolphin Hotel. The characters are ones I have come to know and care about since the beginning of the series. There are some long running threads permeating the narrative, so probably best to read them all, in order. Wedding planning has gone on the back burner as Kitty and Matt help the Inspector with figuring out the Winspear family dynamics and narrowing down their suspect list. I'm thinking the next installment might include the wedding and some big changes ahead but I really hope that Kitty stays committed to her grandmother's hotel and that more of the misadventures occur there.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
Kitty Underhay is back for her 9th adventure as she and her fiance, Matthew Bryant, become involved in a case of murder and mishap at the swanky Torbay Country Club. Inspector Greville asks them to sit in on the interviews of the Winspear family and their guests, Russian siblings and professional dancers, Ivan and Natasha Bolsolva. One of the cohort surely killed Sir William Winspear in the grotto with a broken arrow.
I really enjoy the period details and the setting -- including that of the Dolphin Hotel. The characters are ones I have come to know and care about since the beginning of the series. There are some long running threads permeating the narrative, so probably best to read them all, in order. Wedding planning has gone on the back burner as Kitty and Matt help the Inspector with figuring out the Winspear family dynamics and narrowing down their suspect list. I'm thinking the next installment might include the wedding and some big changes ahead but I really hope that Kitty stays committed to her grandmother's hotel and that more of the misadventures occur there.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
June 20, 2022
The thing I like about reading long time running series is that feeling you sometimes get of meeting back with old friends every time you pick up a new book. With the Kitty Underhay Series that feeling is even stronger. Kitty, Matt and all the satellites around them are like family now and you just want things to go well for them basically because they’re good people.
In this 9th installment of their adventures, a quiet day out at the local country club soon turns into chaos when…yeah, you guessed it, Kitty stumbles upon a dead body! Girl seems to have a magnet for them! Inspector Greville will enlist Kitty and Matt’s help to track the killer but will they be able to find them before they strike again?
Cozy mysteries are always so much fun! The quaint atmosphere, the small communities where everyone knows everyone and the classic mystery vibe where the investigation is based purely on the questioning of suspects and deduction are always so appealing to me, and Murder At The Country Club is a great example.
Despite the small pool of suspects I kept changing theories as the story progressed and, after several red-herrings, twists and turns, the resolution felt deeply satisfying. Overall, it was one of the mysteries I enjoyed the most throughout the series.
Kitty and Matt are such a delight! Their slow burning romance has been evolving quietly, according to the times they live, since book one. One thing I love about it is how their relationship has always been based on mutual respect, encouraging each other and putting no pressure on the other one to change and fit whatever mould society expects them to fit.
The cast of secondary characters is awesome as always. Grams, Alice…even Mrs. Craven! It was also nice to see bit of more of Dolly in her new role as Kitty’s sidekick.
With the wedding date looming on the horizon I can’t wait to see how their personal situation and work partnership will evolve once they’ve tied the knot.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
PS: can I just mention how much I love the art work on the covers of all the books in the series? Such a fantastic job!
In this 9th installment of their adventures, a quiet day out at the local country club soon turns into chaos when…yeah, you guessed it, Kitty stumbles upon a dead body! Girl seems to have a magnet for them! Inspector Greville will enlist Kitty and Matt’s help to track the killer but will they be able to find them before they strike again?
Cozy mysteries are always so much fun! The quaint atmosphere, the small communities where everyone knows everyone and the classic mystery vibe where the investigation is based purely on the questioning of suspects and deduction are always so appealing to me, and Murder At The Country Club is a great example.
Despite the small pool of suspects I kept changing theories as the story progressed and, after several red-herrings, twists and turns, the resolution felt deeply satisfying. Overall, it was one of the mysteries I enjoyed the most throughout the series.
Kitty and Matt are such a delight! Their slow burning romance has been evolving quietly, according to the times they live, since book one. One thing I love about it is how their relationship has always been based on mutual respect, encouraging each other and putting no pressure on the other one to change and fit whatever mould society expects them to fit.
The cast of secondary characters is awesome as always. Grams, Alice…even Mrs. Craven! It was also nice to see bit of more of Dolly in her new role as Kitty’s sidekick.
With the wedding date looming on the horizon I can’t wait to see how their personal situation and work partnership will evolve once they’ve tied the knot.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
PS: can I just mention how much I love the art work on the covers of all the books in the series? Such a fantastic job!
June 18, 2022
My first book in this cosy mystery series and also my last. Not bad, but dragging and a not easily explainable ending. The main character Kitty is a strong woman, but seems to be more concerned about other things in her life than sleuthing.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc ebook in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2022
What do you do when your most likely suspect is found dead in the swimming pool the next day? That is the dilemma facing main character Kitty Underhay and Matt Bryant, her soon to be husband, not to mention the police. Set in what appears to be the late 1930s, solving the murder of Sir William Winspear is a challenge.
Was it his much younger, now very rich wife who seems to have no shortage of male admirers? Perhaps the much put-upon Elspeth, the sister William seems to have dominated and treated more as a servant than family? Or another family member, Henry who seems to have had a constant, pressing need for money, always more money? How about dead-in-the-swimming-pool Russian dancer Ivan's sister? They were overheard planning to get their alibis straight, after all? Could she have killed him for reasons unknown? Perhaps one of the servants? One seems absolutely terrified she'll be blamed, after all. Could the reading of the will be a clue? And, oh, never mind. My lips are sealed so you'll just need to read the book for the answers.
I think you'll enjoy it. The pace is more leisurely than I've grown accustomed to of late, true, but the plot moves along steadily and smoothly, including the side stories. I was new to the series but although I found myself wanting to know more about some of the background mentioned, particularly about Kitty's mother, it worked nicely as a standalone. I definitely enjoyed the easy, respectful relationship between Kitty and Matt, who tries to thread the fine line between supporting Kitty's involvement in investigations, after all, he is a PI, while not endangering her.
Living in this age, we're spoiled by the availability of cell phones, so I found myself having to adjust my thinking a bit when, for instance, instead of staying with the body when she discovered it, Kitty is forced to leave it unguarded to seek help. The fact she owns and drives her own car is also apparently quite daring, hard to believe for those of us who grew up taking it for granted we'd eventually have wheels to take us wherever we wanted, often at speeds our parents wouldn't condone.
Also, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the side characters such as her grandmother, who runs the Dolphin Hotel, and friends who appear to be both friends and hotel staff, Alice and young Dolly. And, oh, can't forget Bernie, Matt's skittish but lovable dog, apparently basically adopted after the death of a victim in a previous book. Yep, I really, really need to read this entire series.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me to visit with Kitty and Matt, sneak some treats to Bernie, and watch them all in action. I'm hoping to see Kitty in her aunt's tiara soon in a wedding!
Was it his much younger, now very rich wife who seems to have no shortage of male admirers? Perhaps the much put-upon Elspeth, the sister William seems to have dominated and treated more as a servant than family? Or another family member, Henry who seems to have had a constant, pressing need for money, always more money? How about dead-in-the-swimming-pool Russian dancer Ivan's sister? They were overheard planning to get their alibis straight, after all? Could she have killed him for reasons unknown? Perhaps one of the servants? One seems absolutely terrified she'll be blamed, after all. Could the reading of the will be a clue? And, oh, never mind. My lips are sealed so you'll just need to read the book for the answers.
I think you'll enjoy it. The pace is more leisurely than I've grown accustomed to of late, true, but the plot moves along steadily and smoothly, including the side stories. I was new to the series but although I found myself wanting to know more about some of the background mentioned, particularly about Kitty's mother, it worked nicely as a standalone. I definitely enjoyed the easy, respectful relationship between Kitty and Matt, who tries to thread the fine line between supporting Kitty's involvement in investigations, after all, he is a PI, while not endangering her.
Living in this age, we're spoiled by the availability of cell phones, so I found myself having to adjust my thinking a bit when, for instance, instead of staying with the body when she discovered it, Kitty is forced to leave it unguarded to seek help. The fact she owns and drives her own car is also apparently quite daring, hard to believe for those of us who grew up taking it for granted we'd eventually have wheels to take us wherever we wanted, often at speeds our parents wouldn't condone.
Also, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the side characters such as her grandmother, who runs the Dolphin Hotel, and friends who appear to be both friends and hotel staff, Alice and young Dolly. And, oh, can't forget Bernie, Matt's skittish but lovable dog, apparently basically adopted after the death of a victim in a previous book. Yep, I really, really need to read this entire series.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me to visit with Kitty and Matt, sneak some treats to Bernie, and watch them all in action. I'm hoping to see Kitty in her aunt's tiara soon in a wedding!
November 29, 2025
Murder at the Country Club by Helena Dixon is the 9th book in the Miss Underhay series. While attending an archery event at the Torbay Country Club with her fiance Matthew Bryant, Kitty Underhay finds their host Sir William Winspear killed with an arrow in his back. A lovely historical cozy mystery. I loved the descriptions of the Country club and the events held there. Kitty and Matthew have a wonderful partnership and I can't wait for their wedding. A wonderful cozy mystery that I enjoyed very much.
June 20, 2022
I can't quite believe that this is the ninth book in the Kitty Underhay series, I just can't get enough of these books!
While each novel contains a standalone mystery, there is a secondary storyline concerning Kitty's missing mother that runs through the books, so I would recommend reading previous books first for the best experience.
It's so nice to catch up with Kitty, Matthew and their investigations. This time she's looking into the death of Sir William Winspear. He was an odious man and there's no shortage of suspects for the pair. When a second death occurs, just the day after, it throws their investigation into turmoil. Will this finally be the case that stumps Kitty and Matthew?
I always know when I pick up one of Helena Dixon's books that I'm in for an entertaining story, full of untrustworthy suspects and a puzzling mystery to put my amateur detective skills to the test.
The question of the future for Kitty came up in this book, as she and Matthew are soon to be married and whether she will take over running the Dolphin hotel. This would mean giving up her investigations entirely, so let's hope that doesn't happen!
Murder at the country club is a great addition to this already fantastic series, I can't wait for the next book!
While each novel contains a standalone mystery, there is a secondary storyline concerning Kitty's missing mother that runs through the books, so I would recommend reading previous books first for the best experience.
It's so nice to catch up with Kitty, Matthew and their investigations. This time she's looking into the death of Sir William Winspear. He was an odious man and there's no shortage of suspects for the pair. When a second death occurs, just the day after, it throws their investigation into turmoil. Will this finally be the case that stumps Kitty and Matthew?
I always know when I pick up one of Helena Dixon's books that I'm in for an entertaining story, full of untrustworthy suspects and a puzzling mystery to put my amateur detective skills to the test.
The question of the future for Kitty came up in this book, as she and Matthew are soon to be married and whether she will take over running the Dolphin hotel. This would mean giving up her investigations entirely, so let's hope that doesn't happen!
Murder at the country club is a great addition to this already fantastic series, I can't wait for the next book!
November 10, 2023
Kitty Underhay is accompanying her fiancé, Matthew Bryant, and Bertie, his new cocker spaniel, on an outing to Torbay Country Club. Matt has been asked to meet with Sir William Winspear to discuss something. Before they meet, Kitty stumbles upon his dead body in the grotto. Sargeant Greville asks Matt and Kitty to sit in on the interviews, especially with the women as she has a way to make them feel comfortable and share information. It seems that there are a lot of people who have a bone to pick with Winspear, including his wife, brother, sister and some possible paramours of his young and attractive wife. When one of their suspects turns up dead, they know they need to figure this out fast. Can Kitty, Matt and Greville find out who killed William Winspear before anyone else turns up dead?
This was another enjoyable and entertaining Miss Underhay mystery. This is a historical cozy mystery, and I love how Kitty Underhay flaunts convention. She owns and drives her own car, often goes out unchaperoned, has no intention of being a "proper" wife when she and Matt get married and is smart with good instincts that she doesn't hide. She and Matt make a great team. He accepts her the way she is, although he does worry about her. I liked how the plot of this story developed. Different suspects are cleared, but I was pretty sure I knew who the killer was and I was correct. The how was what kept me guessing. The secondary characters were not very likable in this one, so I understand how they were all suspects at one time. The final showdown once again has Kitty in a dangerous situation, but all's well that ends well. There is still an undercurrent dealing with the murder of Kitty's mother and the terrible Esther Hammet, who is still walking free. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, when I hope Kitty and Matt finally get married. I recommend this book and series to those who enjoy Cozy Mysteries, especially historical cozies. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
This was another enjoyable and entertaining Miss Underhay mystery. This is a historical cozy mystery, and I love how Kitty Underhay flaunts convention. She owns and drives her own car, often goes out unchaperoned, has no intention of being a "proper" wife when she and Matt get married and is smart with good instincts that she doesn't hide. She and Matt make a great team. He accepts her the way she is, although he does worry about her. I liked how the plot of this story developed. Different suspects are cleared, but I was pretty sure I knew who the killer was and I was correct. The how was what kept me guessing. The secondary characters were not very likable in this one, so I understand how they were all suspects at one time. The final showdown once again has Kitty in a dangerous situation, but all's well that ends well. There is still an undercurrent dealing with the murder of Kitty's mother and the terrible Esther Hammet, who is still walking free. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, when I hope Kitty and Matt finally get married. I recommend this book and series to those who enjoy Cozy Mysteries, especially historical cozies. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
June 24, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Murder At The Country Club' by Helena Dixon.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Helena Dixon, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 17th June 2022.
This is the fifth book I have read by this author. It is also the ninth book in the 'Miss Underhay' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Murder On The Dance Floor', 'Murder At The Wedding', 'Murder In First Class' and 'Murder At Elm House' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'The Perfect read for fans of fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.' 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 Helena and if this is as good as 'Murder On The Dance Floor', 'Murder At The Wedding', 'Murder In First Class' and 'Murder At Elm House' it is sure to be a good 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 a prologue and 24 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 Paignton, Devon, UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited Devon on many occasions including this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Kitty Underhay and Captain Matthew Bryant. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
Yet another fantastic murder mystery by the very talented Helena Dixon!!! Congratulations 🎊 🎉 🎈
This book was very well written and I do believe some research went into it as everything linked correctly in with the era it was set in. It is a real bug bear for me when I read a historical novel and the author hasn't done their research and gets basic information mixed up so well done Helena!! It was very well written and I found the synopsis and the cover fitted the storyline perfectly, The descriptions were great and it really felt as if I was in the story.
The storyline was very interesting and fast paced. Helena completely emerges the reader into the storyline. There was the main storyline based on the deaths at the country club but you also had the side storyline of Esther Hammett who is threatening Kitty after the death of Ezekial. I absolutely loved that this murder mystery took place in such a beautiful setting and the fact that it is based on a real setting is fantastic. I will most definitely be making a point to visit Oldway Mansion in Paignton when I visit Devon next. Thank you so much Helena for making me aware of it. I found the setting very atmospheric and it was even more exciting as there was a very small amount of suspects. I really enjoyed that it was set in the past and the storyline really suited that. It really is a nice cozy mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. At no point did I suspect who was doing what or why so a huge well done there Helena!!! I have read many a mystery and find that I am working out the killer/perp quicker every time and there's nothing worse than working out who did what when your need even half way through a book. Not only is this quite a suspense and action filled mystery but there was just the right amount of quirkiness, laughter and romance to give it a nice mix!!! A fun, addictive, unputdownable cozy crime mystery. This is a fantastic series and if you have never read any of Helena's previous books then you are definitely missing out. I, personally, would like to add that I think each storyline has got better and better which is a very rare thing for a series. I also loved the cliffhanger at the end!!
Although this is the ninth book in the series I would have 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.
I am really invested in the characters and really enjoyed Kitty and her fantastic and quirky personality!!! In fact all of the characters had their own individual personalities which worked really well with each other. I especially enjoyed getting to know Matt, Alice and Dolly more. I also enjoyed getting to know 'Grams' more as she's a large personality and part of this series too. They have all become like a family to me and I always hate saying goodbye to them at the end of the book. I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next 'episode' of Miss Underhay's adventures which I'm sure will be just as exciting as this one!! I absolutely adored that Kitty and Matt will be getting married which has been a long time coming and I'm thoroughly looking forward to what promises to be a very exciting wedding as Kitty does not do anything by halves!! I also adore the fact that we get to see Bertie the dog more who made an explosive entrance in 'Murder In First Class' (so make sure you don't miss out on that amazing page turner!) and is a fantastic addition to what is an absolutely addictive series!!!
Well done Helen on yet another fantastic success and here's to the next addition to an addictive page turning series 🥂!!!
Overall a perfect mix of mystery, crime, romance, laughter and quirkiness which kept me turning the pages late at night!!
Genres covered in this novel include Historical, Cozy Mystery, Cozy Animal Mystery, Private Investigator Mystery Murder Mysteries, Women Sleuths and Crime among others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss and anyone looking for a nice easy mystery to read while curled up in front of the fire.
276 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.
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Review for 'Murder At The Country Club' by Helena Dixon.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Helena Dixon, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 17th June 2022.
This is the fifth book I have read by this author. It is also the ninth book in the 'Miss Underhay' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Murder On The Dance Floor', 'Murder At The Wedding', 'Murder In First Class' and 'Murder At Elm House' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'The Perfect read for fans of fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.' 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 Helena and if this is as good as 'Murder On The Dance Floor', 'Murder At The Wedding', 'Murder In First Class' and 'Murder At Elm House' it is sure to be a good 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 a prologue and 24 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 Paignton, Devon, UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited Devon on many occasions including this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Kitty Underhay and Captain Matthew Bryant. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
Yet another fantastic murder mystery by the very talented Helena Dixon!!! Congratulations 🎊 🎉 🎈
This book was very well written and I do believe some research went into it as everything linked correctly in with the era it was set in. It is a real bug bear for me when I read a historical novel and the author hasn't done their research and gets basic information mixed up so well done Helena!! It was very well written and I found the synopsis and the cover fitted the storyline perfectly, The descriptions were great and it really felt as if I was in the story.
The storyline was very interesting and fast paced. Helena completely emerges the reader into the storyline. There was the main storyline based on the deaths at the country club but you also had the side storyline of Esther Hammett who is threatening Kitty after the death of Ezekial. I absolutely loved that this murder mystery took place in such a beautiful setting and the fact that it is based on a real setting is fantastic. I will most definitely be making a point to visit Oldway Mansion in Paignton when I visit Devon next. Thank you so much Helena for making me aware of it. I found the setting very atmospheric and it was even more exciting as there was a very small amount of suspects. I really enjoyed that it was set in the past and the storyline really suited that. It really is a nice cozy mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. At no point did I suspect who was doing what or why so a huge well done there Helena!!! I have read many a mystery and find that I am working out the killer/perp quicker every time and there's nothing worse than working out who did what when your need even half way through a book. Not only is this quite a suspense and action filled mystery but there was just the right amount of quirkiness, laughter and romance to give it a nice mix!!! A fun, addictive, unputdownable cozy crime mystery. This is a fantastic series and if you have never read any of Helena's previous books then you are definitely missing out. I, personally, would like to add that I think each storyline has got better and better which is a very rare thing for a series. I also loved the cliffhanger at the end!!
Although this is the ninth book in the series I would have 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.
I am really invested in the characters and really enjoyed Kitty and her fantastic and quirky personality!!! In fact all of the characters had their own individual personalities which worked really well with each other. I especially enjoyed getting to know Matt, Alice and Dolly more. I also enjoyed getting to know 'Grams' more as she's a large personality and part of this series too. They have all become like a family to me and I always hate saying goodbye to them at the end of the book. I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next 'episode' of Miss Underhay's adventures which I'm sure will be just as exciting as this one!! I absolutely adored that Kitty and Matt will be getting married which has been a long time coming and I'm thoroughly looking forward to what promises to be a very exciting wedding as Kitty does not do anything by halves!! I also adore the fact that we get to see Bertie the dog more who made an explosive entrance in 'Murder In First Class' (so make sure you don't miss out on that amazing page turner!) and is a fantastic addition to what is an absolutely addictive series!!!
Well done Helen on yet another fantastic success and here's to the next addition to an addictive page turning series 🥂!!!
Overall a perfect mix of mystery, crime, romance, laughter and quirkiness which kept me turning the pages late at night!!
Genres covered in this novel include Historical, Cozy Mystery, Cozy Animal Mystery, Private Investigator Mystery Murder Mysteries, Women Sleuths and Crime among others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss and anyone looking for a nice easy mystery to read while curled up in front of the fire.
276 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.
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February 16, 2023
This is the 9th entry in the authors Miss Underhay historical mystery series, featuring Kitty Underhay who manages her grandmother’s hotel and also gets involved solving mysteries with her now fiancé Matt. I’ve enjoyed the series and this latest entry is no exception.
It’s the high season and in addition to being excruciatingly hot, Kitty and the hotel are swamped with guests. Seeing how exhausted both Kitty and Matt are (tourist season is a busy time for Matt as a professional investigator), Kitty’s grandmother suggests they both take a bit of time off, and the two decide to spend an afternoon at the glorious newly expanded country club, courtesy of a potential client of Matt’s. While the country club is great, the other guests invited to be part of the party with Matt and Kitty are rather sketchy. And of course, Kitty shortly discovers one of their party has been murdered on the grounds of the country club.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the development of the key characters over the course of this series. Kitty and Matt seem much more like equal partners in both their personal relationship and the investigating they do, than they were in the beginning. And Kitty’s two employees – Alice and Dotty – are definitely coming into their own. In this book Kitty and her grandmother begin to deal with the changes that Kitty’s impending marriage will bring.
The shadow of the overarching mystery of the series – the disappearance and murder of Kitty’s mother years earlier – plays a small part in this entry. But I suspect it will eventually become more central.
I’ve come late to this series and am sad to realize I only have two more before I will be caught up. I hope the author intends to continue with this for a long time, as I will definitely follow along.
It’s the high season and in addition to being excruciatingly hot, Kitty and the hotel are swamped with guests. Seeing how exhausted both Kitty and Matt are (tourist season is a busy time for Matt as a professional investigator), Kitty’s grandmother suggests they both take a bit of time off, and the two decide to spend an afternoon at the glorious newly expanded country club, courtesy of a potential client of Matt’s. While the country club is great, the other guests invited to be part of the party with Matt and Kitty are rather sketchy. And of course, Kitty shortly discovers one of their party has been murdered on the grounds of the country club.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the development of the key characters over the course of this series. Kitty and Matt seem much more like equal partners in both their personal relationship and the investigating they do, than they were in the beginning. And Kitty’s two employees – Alice and Dotty – are definitely coming into their own. In this book Kitty and her grandmother begin to deal with the changes that Kitty’s impending marriage will bring.
The shadow of the overarching mystery of the series – the disappearance and murder of Kitty’s mother years earlier – plays a small part in this entry. But I suspect it will eventually become more central.
I’ve come late to this series and am sad to realize I only have two more before I will be caught up. I hope the author intends to continue with this for a long time, as I will definitely follow along.
August 11, 2022
This is the 9th book in this charming cozy crime series set in Devon in the early 20th century. Kitty Underhay and her fiancé Matt are planning their Christmas wedding but she is still managing the Dolphin Hotel with her beloved Grams and Matthew is still tracking down crime in his PI role.
When Kitty and Matt are invited to a day out at a local exclusive sports club they are very much looking forward to a lovely day out, however when their esteemed host is found dead with his own spent arrow in his back the fun begins.
Great storyline as always and lovely descriptions of the area and charming characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
When Kitty and Matt are invited to a day out at a local exclusive sports club they are very much looking forward to a lovely day out, however when their esteemed host is found dead with his own spent arrow in his back the fun begins.
Great storyline as always and lovely descriptions of the area and charming characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2022
I love this series! Kitty and Matt are wonderful partners in crime – clever, determined and likeable. Coming back to them, and all the regulars, feels like catching up with old friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the cast of suspects too: well-drawn and memorable. There were plenty of twists and turns as the plot evolved and a fantastic, action-packed denouement that had me on the edge of my seat. The latest developments in Kitty’s personal life added to the compelling mix. A wonderful, atmospheric page turner.
June 21, 2022
Enjoyable cosy crime story. This dragged a little for me, and didn’t grab me like most of the previous books.
It may be a small niggle but for such a modern characters, I find the calling of Kitty “old girl” and “old thing” rather condescending, especially as Matt is now Kitty’s fiancé and it is also repetitive - if I had a drink for every time he said it, I would’ve been very drunk by the time I’d finished the book!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
It may be a small niggle but for such a modern characters, I find the calling of Kitty “old girl” and “old thing” rather condescending, especially as Matt is now Kitty’s fiancé and it is also repetitive - if I had a drink for every time he said it, I would’ve been very drunk by the time I’d finished the book!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
June 23, 2022
Murder at the Country Club by Helena Dixon is another charming Kitty Underhay (and Captain Matt Bryant) novel. Matt had been invited to a small gathering at the upscale Torbay Country Club and Golf Club by Sir William Winspear, a man for whom he had done a small investigation earlier. The man said he wanted Matt’s advice, plus it would be a nice outing for the two of them, and it was until Kitty and Bertie (the dog) discovered Sit William’s body under a bush near the grotto. She was upset and set off to find Matt, who had been waiting in another location to meet with Sir William. By the time they returned others had gathered and Matt had to request club personnel to guard the scene until Inspector Greville arrived. Sadly, there was no shortage of suspects as Sir. William was not a pleasant man. His immediate family included his wife, Lady Lettice, a much younger woman who he’d had met when she was a stage performer; his sister, Elspeth, who was little more than an unpaid slave to him and had been for years; and his brother Henry and wife, Padma, who had just returned from India where Padma had been Henry’s housekeeper, a situation of which William heartily disapproved. Also present were a brother/sister dance team being sponsored by Lady Lettice, Ivan and Natasha, who were to perform that evening.
Kitty is still working for her grandmother at the Dolphin hotel, which her grandmother had owned and operated all of Kitty’s life and before. She is torn between the Dolphin, her grandmother, and Matt. They were all important to her. She had resolved to do her best at the hotel, although she missed investigating with Matt. She had a small convertible roadster that Matt had given her and she drove it a great speed around the surrounding areas. Inspector Greville often had her sit in on interviews where women were being questioned, counting on her insight and chaperonage. She was clever and insightful. The next day, Ivan ended up hit over the head and pushed into the pool at the Winspear’s home. The problem was, no one was telling the truth, or at least the whole truth. It was complicating everything. A good series, and another good entry into it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Murder at the Country Club by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #helenadixon #murderatthecountryclub
Kitty is still working for her grandmother at the Dolphin hotel, which her grandmother had owned and operated all of Kitty’s life and before. She is torn between the Dolphin, her grandmother, and Matt. They were all important to her. She had resolved to do her best at the hotel, although she missed investigating with Matt. She had a small convertible roadster that Matt had given her and she drove it a great speed around the surrounding areas. Inspector Greville often had her sit in on interviews where women were being questioned, counting on her insight and chaperonage. She was clever and insightful. The next day, Ivan ended up hit over the head and pushed into the pool at the Winspear’s home. The problem was, no one was telling the truth, or at least the whole truth. It was complicating everything. A good series, and another good entry into it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Murder at the Country Club by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #helenadixon #murderatthecountryclub
June 18, 2022
My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Murder at the Country Club’ by Helena Dixon in exchange for an honest review.
This is Book 9 in Dixon’s series of historical cosy mysteries set in mid-1930s Devon that focuses on the sleuthing adventures of hotelier Miss Kitty Underhay.
I so enjoy this series and often read them in a single day, usually accompanied by its unabridged audiobook edition. While Dixon always provides background for new readers, it is such a fun series that I have no hesitation in recommending it as a whole.
So just a few details of the plot, though as the title indicates there is going to be a murder at the country club!
August 1934. Kitty Underhay and Matthew Bryant, along with Bertie, his new cocker spaniel, are on an outing to the Torbay Country Club. Mathew, a private investigator, has been invited by Sir William Winspear to discuss his undertaking some enquiries.
We are introduced to Winspear’s family and guests. There is clearly a lot of tension in the party. Following an archery demonstration in which Sir William shows off, Kitty takes Bertie for a walk in a shaded grotto and is shocked to find the body of their host with an arrow in his back. Whodunnit? Well, there’s certainly plenty of suspects.
As some of the female witnesses/suspects are reluctant to be interviewed by Inspector Greville, he makes the sensible decision to seek Kitty’s assistance. So, Kitty and Matthew do have a semi-official role in the investigation. There are also ongoing series subplots that are advanced.
This proved a lovely light summer read with plenty of Golden Age charm, witty dialogue, and historical detail. The next in the series is due for release in October.
Highly recommended.
This is Book 9 in Dixon’s series of historical cosy mysteries set in mid-1930s Devon that focuses on the sleuthing adventures of hotelier Miss Kitty Underhay.
I so enjoy this series and often read them in a single day, usually accompanied by its unabridged audiobook edition. While Dixon always provides background for new readers, it is such a fun series that I have no hesitation in recommending it as a whole.
So just a few details of the plot, though as the title indicates there is going to be a murder at the country club!
August 1934. Kitty Underhay and Matthew Bryant, along with Bertie, his new cocker spaniel, are on an outing to the Torbay Country Club. Mathew, a private investigator, has been invited by Sir William Winspear to discuss his undertaking some enquiries.
We are introduced to Winspear’s family and guests. There is clearly a lot of tension in the party. Following an archery demonstration in which Sir William shows off, Kitty takes Bertie for a walk in a shaded grotto and is shocked to find the body of their host with an arrow in his back. Whodunnit? Well, there’s certainly plenty of suspects.
As some of the female witnesses/suspects are reluctant to be interviewed by Inspector Greville, he makes the sensible decision to seek Kitty’s assistance. So, Kitty and Matthew do have a semi-official role in the investigation. There are also ongoing series subplots that are advanced.
This proved a lovely light summer read with plenty of Golden Age charm, witty dialogue, and historical detail. The next in the series is due for release in October.
Highly recommended.
May 28, 2022
It's been very busy for a while at the Dolphin Hotel and manager Kitty Underhay is beginning to flag! So, when her fiancé, Captain Matthew Bryant, is invited to the Torbay Country Club as guests of one of his clients, she is delighted to accompany him. The location is beautiful and Kitty finally begins to relax and enjoy herself watching different sports and meeting new people.
The whole day falls apart however as she walks Matt's newly acquired cocker spaniel, Bertie and they find a dead body in the country club's secluded grounds. With Inspector Grenville's approval Kitty and Matt find themselves investigating the murder alongside the local police force and everyone is dismayed when a second body is found not long after the first.
This is the ninth in this wonderful cosy crime series that has been a pleasure to read from the very first investigation. Once again the author transports her readers to the 1930s and, in this instance, her main protagonists to the privileged world of the country club and its members. There is a secondary theme running throughout which, I have no doubt, will burst into a storyline of its own very soon, and, of course, there is a wedding to look forward to as well.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is one of the best cosy crime series available at the moment and this installment only adds to its appeal. Highly recommended.
The whole day falls apart however as she walks Matt's newly acquired cocker spaniel, Bertie and they find a dead body in the country club's secluded grounds. With Inspector Grenville's approval Kitty and Matt find themselves investigating the murder alongside the local police force and everyone is dismayed when a second body is found not long after the first.
This is the ninth in this wonderful cosy crime series that has been a pleasure to read from the very first investigation. Once again the author transports her readers to the 1930s and, in this instance, her main protagonists to the privileged world of the country club and its members. There is a secondary theme running throughout which, I have no doubt, will burst into a storyline of its own very soon, and, of course, there is a wedding to look forward to as well.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is one of the best cosy crime series available at the moment and this installment only adds to its appeal. Highly recommended.
June 20, 2022
Kitty Underhay is back on the case. Kitty and her fiancé Matthew Bryant are at the Torbay Country Club for the day. They are attending an archery event. While walking Matthew’s new cocker spaniel, Bertie, around the Country Club grounds, Kitty makes a horrible discovery, the body of the host Sir William Winspear. Cause of death is an arrow in his back. Through the interviews of the sporting event, Kitty finds out that Sir William had threatened one of the guests, Ivan. Ivan is a guest of the Country Club and is a Russian dancer, he relies on Sir William for sponsoring him. It seems like an easy case for Kitty Underhay to solve. But when Kitty finds Ivan’s body in the pool the next day, she must continue her investigation before the culprit takes another victim.
I absolutely love the Kitty Underhay amateur sleuth series. Kitty is a very likeable character, and she and her fiancé Matthew are a great pair. This cozy mystery is a fast read and will keep you wondering who the culprit is, until the very end. I found myself flying through the pages, and in a hurry to find out whodunnit. I really enjoyed reading about Bertie the cocker spaniel. What a fabulous addition to a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed this awesome addition to the Kitty Underhay Mystery Series. I look forward to the continuation to this fantastic series.
Thank you Helena Dixon for such a wonderful addition to this series. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
I absolutely love the Kitty Underhay amateur sleuth series. Kitty is a very likeable character, and she and her fiancé Matthew are a great pair. This cozy mystery is a fast read and will keep you wondering who the culprit is, until the very end. I found myself flying through the pages, and in a hurry to find out whodunnit. I really enjoyed reading about Bertie the cocker spaniel. What a fabulous addition to a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed this awesome addition to the Kitty Underhay Mystery Series. I look forward to the continuation to this fantastic series.
Thank you Helena Dixon for such a wonderful addition to this series. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
June 16, 2022
Matthew Bryant & his fiancée Kitty Underhay and Bertie, Matt’s new cocker spaniel are invited to Torbay Country Club by Sir William Winspear. However, the delightful day soon turns to disaster. Walking Bertie in the shaded grotto after an exhilarating archery demonstration, Kitty makes an unsporting discovery: the body of their host, Sir William Winspear, with an arrow in his back. Inspector Grenville invites Kitty & Matthew to sit in whilst interviewing suspects. They discover that Sir William had threatened one of the guests, dashing Russian dancer Ivan, who is dependent on him for patronage. When Kitty overhears a damning conversation between Ivan and his sister, the case seems clear. But the next day Ivan is disqualified as he is found face down in the pool.
This is the ninth outing for Kitty & Matt & it’s just as fresh as the first. I love Kitty, who balances running the Dolphin Hotel with sleuthing but can she continue to do so once she marries Matt at Christmas? Once again there are plenty of red herrings plus twists & turns before the murderer is revealed. As ever Kitty is in the thick of things as is Matt. I love how the characters have developed throughout the series & look forward to many more books in the series. An engrossing mystery which I devoured in a couple of sittings
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the ninth outing for Kitty & Matt & it’s just as fresh as the first. I love Kitty, who balances running the Dolphin Hotel with sleuthing but can she continue to do so once she marries Matt at Christmas? Once again there are plenty of red herrings plus twists & turns before the murderer is revealed. As ever Kitty is in the thick of things as is Matt. I love how the characters have developed throughout the series & look forward to many more books in the series. An engrossing mystery which I devoured in a couple of sittings
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 19, 2022
Already onto book nine of this wonderful series and the delightful Kitty Underhay who helps run The Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth along with her grandmother. Now with her fiancé Matthew Bryant, a private investigator Kitty finds her continuing to get into scrapes of her own and there is often a few dead bodies about!
Having been invited to see an Archery display, some tennis, a dance display and some wonderful food and drink, the last thing Kitty expects to find is a dead body,
But she does Sir William Winspear, the very person who invited herself and Matthew to the club. And he appears to have an arrow sticking out of him.
When it seems he has been thinking about changing his will, heard arguing with one of the exhibition dancers as well as being rather beastly to his own brother and sister. It seems the list of suspects is stacking up. Then one of them is found dead in the swimming pool.
Kitty with her skill of talking to the female suspects finds herself in the middle of the investigation with Matthew and Inspector Grenville and his penchant for biscuits! Can they get to the truth before anyone else dies?
This is a light murder mystery and it’s historical setting adds to its whimsey. That doesn’t mean it is not without pace and plot and also with a backstory running through all the books, it is not a series to be overlooked. I look forward to the next one and re-joining Kitty and if I could I would book into The Dolphin Hotel if only to watch what happens next!
Having been invited to see an Archery display, some tennis, a dance display and some wonderful food and drink, the last thing Kitty expects to find is a dead body,
But she does Sir William Winspear, the very person who invited herself and Matthew to the club. And he appears to have an arrow sticking out of him.
When it seems he has been thinking about changing his will, heard arguing with one of the exhibition dancers as well as being rather beastly to his own brother and sister. It seems the list of suspects is stacking up. Then one of them is found dead in the swimming pool.
Kitty with her skill of talking to the female suspects finds herself in the middle of the investigation with Matthew and Inspector Grenville and his penchant for biscuits! Can they get to the truth before anyone else dies?
This is a light murder mystery and it’s historical setting adds to its whimsey. That doesn’t mean it is not without pace and plot and also with a backstory running through all the books, it is not a series to be overlooked. I look forward to the next one and re-joining Kitty and if I could I would book into The Dolphin Hotel if only to watch what happens next!
January 8, 2024
Kitty and her fiance Matthew are invited to an exclusive country club. Their host Sir William Winspear wishes to have a secret meeting with Matthew but is murdered before the pair can meet. What did he want to tell Matthew and did it get him killed?
Murder at the Country Club is the 9th book to feature Kitty Underhay. She tries to get away for some rest and relaxation but death seems to follow her!
Kitty and Matthew are guests of Sir William but Kitty finds his body pierced by a broken arrow. There is a scrap of fabric which seems to implicate his wife but surely the case can't be solved that easily?! Another murder makes the pair consider the suspects more carefully to establish motives and a connection between the deaths.
The book is set in 1934 and has a classical feel. I was reminded of an Agatha Christie mixed with Midsomer Murders. The death and body are not described in detail, making this a cosy murder mystery. The style of writing is easy to read and the plot twists maintain the puzzle of the culprit's identity.
Murder at the Country Club is an enjoyable cosy historical murder mystery.
Murder at the Country Club is the 9th book to feature Kitty Underhay. She tries to get away for some rest and relaxation but death seems to follow her!
Kitty and Matthew are guests of Sir William but Kitty finds his body pierced by a broken arrow. There is a scrap of fabric which seems to implicate his wife but surely the case can't be solved that easily?! Another murder makes the pair consider the suspects more carefully to establish motives and a connection between the deaths.
The book is set in 1934 and has a classical feel. I was reminded of an Agatha Christie mixed with Midsomer Murders. The death and body are not described in detail, making this a cosy murder mystery. The style of writing is easy to read and the plot twists maintain the puzzle of the culprit's identity.
Murder at the Country Club is an enjoyable cosy historical murder mystery.
May 22, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "Murder at the Country Club" in exchange for my honest review.
This is the 9th book in the Miss Underhay series. It starts with an advertisement in the Torbay Herald dated August 1934. Kitty Underhay and her fiancé Matt have been invited to the Country Club by a former client of Matt's - Sir William Winspear. He wants to discuss something with Matt but he has not said what.
Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell would prefer it id Kitty settled down with Matt and left mysteries and danger behind her. In fact there is a lot of pushing of the Christmas wedding in this book. It feels like the wedding is being forced on Kitty, rather than her having free choice. Millicent Craven, grams' best friend is a major instigator of the wedding. Matt while he doesn't like Kitty to be in danger, understands that she will do as she pleases. Even Inspector Greville has come to respect her insights.
There are a couple of murders that Kitty and Matt get involved in solving and there is also the ever present threat of Esther Hammett.
This is the 9th book in the Miss Underhay series. It starts with an advertisement in the Torbay Herald dated August 1934. Kitty Underhay and her fiancé Matt have been invited to the Country Club by a former client of Matt's - Sir William Winspear. He wants to discuss something with Matt but he has not said what.
Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell would prefer it id Kitty settled down with Matt and left mysteries and danger behind her. In fact there is a lot of pushing of the Christmas wedding in this book. It feels like the wedding is being forced on Kitty, rather than her having free choice. Millicent Craven, grams' best friend is a major instigator of the wedding. Matt while he doesn't like Kitty to be in danger, understands that she will do as she pleases. Even Inspector Greville has come to respect her insights.
There are a couple of murders that Kitty and Matt get involved in solving and there is also the ever present threat of Esther Hammett.
June 5, 2022
The Miss Underhay Mystery series is an absolute favourite, so I was thrilled to receive a copy of Murder at the Country Club. I was not disappointed!
This time around, Kitty and Matt are having a relaxing at the country club, and you’ll never guess what happens - Kitty stumbles across another dead body!
I really loved this book. It was a joy to read, and to see all my favourite characters again always brings me happiness.
The plot was an intriguing one, and although I was pretty sure that the culprit was guilty of something, I didn’t figure out what was actually going on until the big reveal.
As well as the murder mystery plot, it was great to see Kitty and Matt taking a few more steps towards working out what their future together will look like. I love a series where there’s a slow romance going on, as well as the main plots of each book.
Overall, this was another fascinating murder mystery, that kept me turning the pages until the very end. What a wonderful way to spend a few hours.
I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
This time around, Kitty and Matt are having a relaxing at the country club, and you’ll never guess what happens - Kitty stumbles across another dead body!
I really loved this book. It was a joy to read, and to see all my favourite characters again always brings me happiness.
The plot was an intriguing one, and although I was pretty sure that the culprit was guilty of something, I didn’t figure out what was actually going on until the big reveal.
As well as the murder mystery plot, it was great to see Kitty and Matt taking a few more steps towards working out what their future together will look like. I love a series where there’s a slow romance going on, as well as the main plots of each book.
Overall, this was another fascinating murder mystery, that kept me turning the pages until the very end. What a wonderful way to spend a few hours.
I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
June 24, 2022
Kitty and her fiancé Matt receive an invitation to an afternoon tea at a new country club in the area. Their host, Lord William, has told Matt that he needs his services as a private investigator, but before they can speak privately, he’s murdered. Matt and Kitty are on hand to assist the local inspector interview all the possible suspects: the not-so-grieving widow, the younger brother who expects to inherit the entire estate, the sister who’s been working as an unpaid secretary, and a pair of Russian dancers who are sponsored by Lord William’s wife. I’ve enjoyed reading this series, and managed to read this book in two very late evenings. I love the elegant but not pretentious settings and the cast of secondary characters is fun, too. I’ve preordered Book 10, but I’m sad that I’ll have to wait another four months to read it!
June 25, 2022
This is a book I just couldn't resist
Miss Underhay mysteries are not to be missed!
I was pleased to be right as this is another intriguing read
Just what I was looking for and hope it is what you need!
Set in the 1930s, this starts with a date
But when Kitty finds their host she's too late!
The Torbay Country Club should have been fun
But not when a murder has been done.
With all the suspects involved in the case
They're with Kitty and Matthew, so easy to place
But with lies and deception, and facts concealed
Can this couple ensure the perpetrator is revealed?
A taste of the era, and life in those times
All add to the ambience and dangerous crimes
I really enjoyed reading this page turner cosy mystery
Steeped as it is in intrigue and history.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review
Miss Underhay mysteries are not to be missed!
I was pleased to be right as this is another intriguing read
Just what I was looking for and hope it is what you need!
Set in the 1930s, this starts with a date
But when Kitty finds their host she's too late!
The Torbay Country Club should have been fun
But not when a murder has been done.
With all the suspects involved in the case
They're with Kitty and Matthew, so easy to place
But with lies and deception, and facts concealed
Can this couple ensure the perpetrator is revealed?
A taste of the era, and life in those times
All add to the ambience and dangerous crimes
I really enjoyed reading this page turner cosy mystery
Steeped as it is in intrigue and history.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review
August 21, 2022
This mystery is another light and enjoyable but strong outing in the Kitty Underhay series. As always, I read this series for all the delicious 1930s English seaside resort details, which are so beautifully painted here. I enjoyed this mystery, too, as the two victims in rapid succession were a change of structure for our sleuths. I also liked the very procedural nature of this investigation, which felt very old-school golden age mystery to me.
Unfortunately, the reader is still subjected to the over-arching fallout of Kitty’s mother’s murder two decades prior, although at least here it is only a couple of brief scenes. And, once, again, there’s an unrealistic modern chase scene at the climax which I always feel is out of place for the generally excellent old-fashioned tone of the rest of the novel.
Unfortunately, the reader is still subjected to the over-arching fallout of Kitty’s mother’s murder two decades prior, although at least here it is only a couple of brief scenes. And, once, again, there’s an unrealistic modern chase scene at the climax which I always feel is out of place for the generally excellent old-fashioned tone of the rest of the novel.
November 21, 2024
Another entertaining Kitty Underhay mystery.
Another adventure for our two main protagonists. Miss Kitty Underhay is accompanying her fiancé, Matthew Bryant, and with Bertie (recently acquired cocker spaniel and with a nervous disposition), tagging along, decide to go on an outing to Torbay Country Club. However, it also turns out that Matthew has been invited for his detective skills. Before he is told what Sir William Winspear wants him to do, their host ends up with an arrow in his back. Kitty is the one who finds him and they both are requested to become part of the police investigation when many people present actively dislike Sir William, especially the family, and have a motive for his death.
The race is on to find the killer in a satisfyingly brisk and suspenseful cozy historical murder mystery.
Another adventure for our two main protagonists. Miss Kitty Underhay is accompanying her fiancé, Matthew Bryant, and with Bertie (recently acquired cocker spaniel and with a nervous disposition), tagging along, decide to go on an outing to Torbay Country Club. However, it also turns out that Matthew has been invited for his detective skills. Before he is told what Sir William Winspear wants him to do, their host ends up with an arrow in his back. Kitty is the one who finds him and they both are requested to become part of the police investigation when many people present actively dislike Sir William, especially the family, and have a motive for his death.
The race is on to find the killer in a satisfyingly brisk and suspenseful cozy historical murder mystery.
June 30, 2025
“Kitty Underhay is playing doubles… with death…”
Another great mystery to solve with this 9th instalment in the Kitty Underhay series.
This time our leading lady is on the case when what was meant to be a leisurely day at the Torbay Country Club with her fIance Matthew Bryant, turns into putting to use her amateur sluthing skills when she stumbles upon the body of their host Sir William Winspear, with an arrow protruding from his back!
I really enjoyed this book as is always the case with this series. Dixon always makes her stories feel fresh, has a lovely setting and they are just a joy to read. Getting to the bottom of this one was a fun ride and with another dead body, enough suspects and twists and turns along the way made, for a very quick and entertaining read.
Another great mystery to solve with this 9th instalment in the Kitty Underhay series.
This time our leading lady is on the case when what was meant to be a leisurely day at the Torbay Country Club with her fIance Matthew Bryant, turns into putting to use her amateur sluthing skills when she stumbles upon the body of their host Sir William Winspear, with an arrow protruding from his back!
I really enjoyed this book as is always the case with this series. Dixon always makes her stories feel fresh, has a lovely setting and they are just a joy to read. Getting to the bottom of this one was a fun ride and with another dead body, enough suspects and twists and turns along the way made, for a very quick and entertaining read.
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