What do you think?
Rate this book
Lord Edgington Investigates #5
The Tangled Treasure Trail
High-speed treasure hunts, wild parties, and a string of murders to investigate – it's just a normal weekend for Lord Edgington of Cranley Hall.
England, 1926. After a wealthy industrialist is found dead on a treasure hunt with the Bright Young People of London, the renowned detective Lord Edgington and his loyal grandson Christopher suspect foul play and sign up for the next speedy chase across the city. When a second body is found, shot through the heart in the centre of Westminster, the mismatched duo set off on the trail of a killer.
One victim is old and rich, the other young and poor, but could the jazz-and-drink-fuelled parties of the infamous Gargoyle Club link the apparently unrelated figures? Greed, espionage, wartime valour, aristocrats and bohemians come crashing together in Lord Edgington’s most mind-boggling case yet. Will you be able to unravel "The Tangled Treasure Trail" before the seasoned detectives?
An Agatha Christie-style mystery with a dash of Downton, an array of speeding cars, and the most lovable golden retriever in crime fiction along for the ride, the fifth entry in the bestselling series of classic whodunnits is filled with twists and surprises from the first page to the last.
England, 1926. After a wealthy industrialist is found dead on a treasure hunt with the Bright Young People of London, the renowned detective Lord Edgington and his loyal grandson Christopher suspect foul play and sign up for the next speedy chase across the city. When a second body is found, shot through the heart in the centre of Westminster, the mismatched duo set off on the trail of a killer.
One victim is old and rich, the other young and poor, but could the jazz-and-drink-fuelled parties of the infamous Gargoyle Club link the apparently unrelated figures? Greed, espionage, wartime valour, aristocrats and bohemians come crashing together in Lord Edgington’s most mind-boggling case yet. Will you be able to unravel "The Tangled Treasure Trail" before the seasoned detectives?
An Agatha Christie-style mystery with a dash of Downton, an array of speeding cars, and the most lovable golden retriever in crime fiction along for the ride, the fifth entry in the bestselling series of classic whodunnits is filled with twists and surprises from the first page to the last.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 4, 2022
816 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Benedict Brown
48 books517 followersWriting has always been my passion. It was my favourite hour a week at primary school, and I started on my first, truly abysmal book as a teenager. So it wasn’t a difficult decision to study literature at university which led to an MA in Creative Writing. I spent a long time writing kids’ books, including funny fairy tales, dystopic adventures and serious issue-based YA, before switching to murder mysteries last year.
I grew up in a crime fiction family and spent a long time dreaming up the idea for my detective Izzy Palmer’s debut novel. A Corpse Called Bob is my first full-length book for adults in what is already becoming a long series.
I’m a Welsh-Irish-Englishman originally from South London but now living with my French/Spanish wife and slightly muddled daughter in Burgos, a beautiful city in the north of Spain. I write overlooking the Castilian countryside, trying not to be distracted by the vultures and red kites that fly past my window each day.
I grew up in a crime fiction family and spent a long time dreaming up the idea for my detective Izzy Palmer’s debut novel. A Corpse Called Bob is my first full-length book for adults in what is already becoming a long series.
I’m a Welsh-Irish-Englishman originally from South London but now living with my French/Spanish wife and slightly muddled daughter in Burgos, a beautiful city in the north of Spain. I write overlooking the Castilian countryside, trying not to be distracted by the vultures and red kites that fly past my window each day.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
March 26, 2023
Oh, he got me. I spent the whole time trying to prove one thing only to discover that I had fallen for a huge red herring. I know better, but he got me. 100% Well done, Brown!
Meanwhile, this was one of the best of the series. I still prefer Death on a Summer's Day just a bit, but this is probably a better story. Christopher grew both as a person and a detective, and this time, Lord Eddington (or is it Edgington? I can't remember!) actually caught me up once. I totally missed it. Well done.
But not only is this a great mystery, it was just a fun read! The idea of the "bright young things" having games all over London really was a fun idea and made me wish I could've watched it play out. Seriously, why hasn't the BBC decided to turn these into a serial. Kind of Foyle meets the 1920s!
Meanwhile, this was one of the best of the series. I still prefer Death on a Summer's Day just a bit, but this is probably a better story. Christopher grew both as a person and a detective, and this time, Lord Eddington (or is it Edgington? I can't remember!) actually caught me up once. I totally missed it. Well done.
But not only is this a great mystery, it was just a fun read! The idea of the "bright young things" having games all over London really was a fun idea and made me wish I could've watched it play out. Seriously, why hasn't the BBC decided to turn these into a serial. Kind of Foyle meets the 1920s!
May 10, 2022
As one finishes another enjoyable book featuring Lord Edgington and his grandson Christopher performing their favorite activity of crime solving, it is with the desire for more. In this case I see another book is available that I may be able to roll into quite soon. This crime solving adventure takes the duo to London where the swinging 20's action can be found amongst the smart young crowd that our duo hooks up with.
Best hotel suites for this pair and nothing less along with plenty of opportunities for new experiences for the young man. His grandfather is continually tutoring him and his high expectations are rewarded with exemplary performance. The characters and London landmarks all serve to enliven this tale. 1920's dance parties, music and cocktails add to the mix, and one must not forget Delilah the dog.
Kindle Unlimited
Best hotel suites for this pair and nothing less along with plenty of opportunities for new experiences for the young man. His grandfather is continually tutoring him and his high expectations are rewarded with exemplary performance. The characters and London landmarks all serve to enliven this tale. 1920's dance parties, music and cocktails add to the mix, and one must not forget Delilah the dog.
Kindle Unlimited
March 9, 2022
TANGLED TRAIL INDEED. !
When Lord Edgington reads in the morning paper of the death of a despised tycoon during a treasure hunt in London, he and Christopher set off to investigate. In London they become involved with the Bright Young Things in another treasure hunt through London’s dark streets. Christopher is almost mesmerised by the colourful characters. He is amazed that they seem to be treating him as someone worthy of attention. When another death occurs, definitely murder this time, Lord Edgington and Christopher investigate. Using all the resources available to them, they seek out to find the ‘Who and the Why’. ‘Christopher is clearly becoming more mature, as he mentally assembles more data and stands up for himself more readily. When his Grandfather sets up the scene for the denouement, Christopher performs brilliantly.
Not only is this new adventure a wonderful and thoroughly enjoyable read, but the end notes are fantastic. The research brings the reader not only incredible information about the London of the period , but facts about the language of the time and salient and interesting facts about machines and foods.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all .
When Lord Edgington reads in the morning paper of the death of a despised tycoon during a treasure hunt in London, he and Christopher set off to investigate. In London they become involved with the Bright Young Things in another treasure hunt through London’s dark streets. Christopher is almost mesmerised by the colourful characters. He is amazed that they seem to be treating him as someone worthy of attention. When another death occurs, definitely murder this time, Lord Edgington and Christopher investigate. Using all the resources available to them, they seek out to find the ‘Who and the Why’. ‘Christopher is clearly becoming more mature, as he mentally assembles more data and stands up for himself more readily. When his Grandfather sets up the scene for the denouement, Christopher performs brilliantly.
Not only is this new adventure a wonderful and thoroughly enjoyable read, but the end notes are fantastic. The research brings the reader not only incredible information about the London of the period , but facts about the language of the time and salient and interesting facts about machines and foods.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all .
July 14, 2024
This book really amps up the roaring twenties vibe of the series, with a treasure-hunting romp in London with the Bright Young Things. I had never heard of the Bright Young Things before listening to this book, but I’ve already heard references to them in other places since. I do love a series that will teach me something, and this one always does. Benedict Brown seems to delight in filling his books with well-researched historical facts and details.
March 27, 2022
Benedict Brown is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. Being a grandparent with grandchildren I love being with, I love the interactions between Lord Edgington and Christopher, and I love how Christopher is maturing and developing through his times with his grandfather.
This book, The Tangled Treasure Trail, is different. There are very few scenes set in opulent country houses. Instead, the locations skip all over London and through several towns on its outskirts. They don’t even stay in the same hotel every night, which I really enjoyed.
And there are many more characters than usual. I’ve read much about the Bright Young Things of London, the young people “who made the 20’s roar,” and this adventure centers around them (with fictional names, I’m sure). We get to see what made several individual members of the set tick, and a little about the dynamics of the set itself, with their city-wide games and lavish costume parties.
The plot is intricate and complex, and Mr. Brown weaves it together seamlessly. I couldn’t put this book down, and I didn’t even come close to guessing “whodunit”! I wish it hadn’t ended so soon, and I cannot wait for the next adventure of Lord Edgington and his interestingly maturing grandson.
This book, The Tangled Treasure Trail, is different. There are very few scenes set in opulent country houses. Instead, the locations skip all over London and through several towns on its outskirts. They don’t even stay in the same hotel every night, which I really enjoyed.
And there are many more characters than usual. I’ve read much about the Bright Young Things of London, the young people “who made the 20’s roar,” and this adventure centers around them (with fictional names, I’m sure). We get to see what made several individual members of the set tick, and a little about the dynamics of the set itself, with their city-wide games and lavish costume parties.
The plot is intricate and complex, and Mr. Brown weaves it together seamlessly. I couldn’t put this book down, and I didn’t even come close to guessing “whodunit”! I wish it hadn’t ended so soon, and I cannot wait for the next adventure of Lord Edgington and his interestingly maturing grandson.
August 8, 2022
No question about my 5 stars. Mr Brown has done it again, but this might be my very favorite Edgington book, so far. This story allows Chrissy to operate in a little more of a mature world than he has been stuck in before. You just never know what lesson Edgington is trying to impart to his grandson, but this book is a little more of a romp than the previous titles. Don't get me wrong, there are mysteries and murders to be solved. And there are just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. The setting is London in the 1920s and tagging along with the "Bright Young Things," London's upper crust young people who have not a lot else to do but run amok. They are challenged to follow clues in a Scavenger Hunt type game, that takes place at night. And they are very eager to celebrate at the end of the night, no matter who the victor is.
Benedict Brown writes some amazing stories, but this deserves more than 5 stars. I really loved this book.
Benedict Brown writes some amazing stories, but this deserves more than 5 stars. I really loved this book.
March 8, 2022
Huzzah for more Lord Edgington!
The sleuthing pair of aging police nobility and chubby schoolboy isn’t typical, and I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it as I read the first book, but boy have they grown on me! They bring the 1920’s England to life, including in this book, where the Bright Young Things of that period are alive and kicking! I really enjoyed this latest installment.
The sleuthing pair of aging police nobility and chubby schoolboy isn’t typical, and I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it as I read the first book, but boy have they grown on me! They bring the 1920’s England to life, including in this book, where the Bright Young Things of that period are alive and kicking! I really enjoyed this latest installment.
April 10, 2025
I think that this is my least favorite of the series thus far. Unfortunately, it was boring for most of the time and then the ending came together way too quickly with far too few of the clues available to the readers beforehand in order for them to be able to guess the conclusion. It really didn't play fair.
Lord Edgington tries to entertain Christopher during winter break by taking him to a treasure hunt with the Bright Young People of London, a group which heretofore I was unfamiliar with. As they go running around the city deciphering clues, they are also investigating whether or not the death of a man on the hunt the week before was indeed natural or if it was murder. Along the way, they meet a group of friends, including Pandora, Fagen and August, and they adopt the pair as part of their cohort. When August ends up dead at the following week's race of the hares and hounds, they know that he was murdered. Not a whole lot happens in this one other than the pair running around with the Bright Young People. In the end, it turns out that August, who was engaged to Pandora, wasn't just the quiet, shy artist that he pretended to be but was really living under an assumed name to hide the fact that he was a government spy. It was unclear to me if he was still a spy or if he was only one during the war but he worked as a double agent in the war and identified a traitor who was later put to death for treason. But because August had to keep his activities a secret, he was suspected of being a German sympathizer when he returned home from the war due to his German heritage. He was killed by the traitor's partner, a man who owned a number of newspapers and who used his column in the papers to write out his messages to the other side in code. The first death was indeed just a natural death but it gave the newspaper man the idea that he could kill August during the hunt and have an alibi. Let's hope that the next one is better.
Lord Edgington tries to entertain Christopher during winter break by taking him to a treasure hunt with the Bright Young People of London, a group which heretofore I was unfamiliar with. As they go running around the city deciphering clues, they are also investigating whether or not the death of a man on the hunt the week before was indeed natural or if it was murder. Along the way, they meet a group of friends, including Pandora, Fagen and August, and they adopt the pair as part of their cohort. When August ends up dead at the following week's race of the hares and hounds, they know that he was murdered. Not a whole lot happens in this one other than the pair running around with the Bright Young People. In the end, it turns out that August, who was engaged to Pandora, wasn't just the quiet, shy artist that he pretended to be but was really living under an assumed name to hide the fact that he was a government spy. It was unclear to me if he was still a spy or if he was only one during the war but he worked as a double agent in the war and identified a traitor who was later put to death for treason. But because August had to keep his activities a secret, he was suspected of being a German sympathizer when he returned home from the war due to his German heritage. He was killed by the traitor's partner, a man who owned a number of newspapers and who used his column in the papers to write out his messages to the other side in code. The first death was indeed just a natural death but it gave the newspaper man the idea that he could kill August during the hunt and have an alibi. Let's hope that the next one is better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2024
The fifth installment in the Lord Edgington mystery series. After reading of a death in a strange treasure hunt, Lord Edgington and Christopher head for London to participate themselves. Then another participant is shot and the case becomes entwined with secrets from WWI.
January 1, 2023
Excellent historical mystery
My second book in this series. Set in 1926 Lord Edgington and grandson Christopher set out to find a killer amongst a treasure hunt. I loved the Bright Young Things characters of Pandora, Fabian , and Augustus. A great adventure was had in the midst of this murder, possibly a double murder investigation. A variety of suspects, some red herrings and plenty of twists, all with in backdrop of London. I appreciated the 1926, post WW1 history.
My second book in this series. Set in 1926 Lord Edgington and grandson Christopher set out to find a killer amongst a treasure hunt. I loved the Bright Young Things characters of Pandora, Fabian , and Augustus. A great adventure was had in the midst of this murder, possibly a double murder investigation. A variety of suspects, some red herrings and plenty of twists, all with in backdrop of London. I appreciated the 1926, post WW1 history.
November 20, 2023
Another fun adventure
May 22, 2023
4.5⭐️
March 7, 2022
The book blurb gives a great summary, but I want to add that I very much enjoyed the historical atmosphere and action – a bit different than the previous books, not just country living and solving a mystery but immersion in the nightlife of young fashionable London. Eats and drinks and a song or two are mentioned, adding to the enjoyment. Chrissie is nearly 18 and starting to do some good thinking, even getting to do the grand reveal at the end (what a good scene!). The appearance of a police "murder bag" (containing things such as gloves and tweezers for unexpected crimes), female police officers, and a female reporter add even more to the feeling of looking over Chrissie's shoulder. And the notes at the end put many things in historical context. A wonderful book, don't miss it! – I received an advance copy and freely leave this honest review.
April 20, 2022
Loved spending time with Chris and his grandfather
Chris still makes mistakes and has flaws, but he is kind, loves and supports his grandfather and will grow into a fine man. Chris and his grandfather are so realistic that I look forward to the next book like a meeting with friends. This is a good story of murder, bright young things, and the long shadows cast by old evil. Nice character development, good pacing, great atmosphere of 1920s London and a good finish. Highly recommended.
Chris still makes mistakes and has flaws, but he is kind, loves and supports his grandfather and will grow into a fine man. Chris and his grandfather are so realistic that I look forward to the next book like a meeting with friends. This is a good story of murder, bright young things, and the long shadows cast by old evil. Nice character development, good pacing, great atmosphere of 1920s London and a good finish. Highly recommended.
September 30, 2022
I wanted to like this book, but it was just all over the place. Like many historical mysteries, this one felt like it was trying too hard to cram in all the things: gentleman sleuth AND police procedure AND Scotland Yard AND social awareness AND humor AND eccentric main characters. The main detective of the piece vacillated between too many personalities, in an attempt to make him seem eccentric but which really came across as inconsistent writing. Not terrible, but not worth going out of your way to read.
November 26, 2023
This seems to be a lot of people's favorite of the series, but I wasn't as drawn in by it as I have been with a couple of others. I think it's because I was listening to the audio, which for me requires a lot of rewinding to catch the clues to the mystery, and this one is dominated by the historical setting among the "bright young things" of 1920s London. It was interesting and fun to hear those scenes once, but I didn't want to listen to them a second time. The mystery itself wasn't as big a part of the story. Also, the Hoopla library version I listened to didn't have an author's note at the end as his other books have done. I find those notes make me more interested in the historical context, so maybe I'd like this one better if I'd had a chance to hear the author's thoughts. In his note at the end of his next book he referred back to this one as being close to his heart, so I really feel I missed something.
Anyway--Chrissy's grandfather reads something in the newspaper about a death during a night time treasure hunt, and picks up Chrissy to go off and investigate. The bright young things of the treasure hunt crowd take Chrissy on as a kind of mascot. He meets a lot of interesting people including a brilliant artist, a charming beautiful woman, and a charming beautiful young man. This is all happening between the world wars, when England still has a lot of young people with inherited wealth and nothing to do but amuse themselves, but at the same time it has a lot of people who've had terrible experiences in the war and come away damaged.
I might look for this in a print version and go back to it after I finish the series. I do enjoy the audio and think the narrator is terrific, but this wasn't the best fit for the way I listen (ie distracted or drifting off to sleep).
Anyway--Chrissy's grandfather reads something in the newspaper about a death during a night time treasure hunt, and picks up Chrissy to go off and investigate. The bright young things of the treasure hunt crowd take Chrissy on as a kind of mascot. He meets a lot of interesting people including a brilliant artist, a charming beautiful woman, and a charming beautiful young man. This is all happening between the world wars, when England still has a lot of young people with inherited wealth and nothing to do but amuse themselves, but at the same time it has a lot of people who've had terrible experiences in the war and come away damaged.
I might look for this in a print version and go back to it after I finish the series. I do enjoy the audio and think the narrator is terrific, but this wasn't the best fit for the way I listen (ie distracted or drifting off to sleep).
June 2, 2025
Yet another entry in this series where the murder mystery plot is fun and all, but objectively not a very good reason for someone to commit murder. But as I said previously, I'm not reading cozy mysteries for the realism, so I guess I'll let it go.
In this book, the main setting is London! Christopher has actually spent very little time there in his life, but when he and his grandfather head up to the big city to check out a recent suspicious death they saw in the newspaper (because they are bored), he is befriended by some charming young people in their 20s who clearly think he's adorbs for some reason. Someone ends up dead and there's a lot of running about, eating fancy food, chatting with the upper classes, etc. For some reason, Lord Edgington decides to bring his dog along for most of the adventure, which is fun if bizarre. As a dog owner myself, I'd also bring my dogs a lot more places with me if I could get away with it. Anyhow, as in all the previous books, ultimately there's a big gathering of all the suspects and the culprit is revealed to all, along with the clues which led to the capture.
I do have to say that this author's cozy murders are a little less cozy than those of some other authors because he's often killing off people who don't deserve to die... which is, of course, not a bad thing in general, but it does make you feel less happy to be running around solving a murder when you know that the result will just be closure for the sad, grieving parents or whatever. My personal fav cozy mysteries are usually those where the victim didn't deserve to be MURDERED, but also wasn't any great loss to the world, so you (the reader) can feel guiltless about callously reading about their (fictional) death for entertainment. Ah well. XD
In this book, the main setting is London! Christopher has actually spent very little time there in his life, but when he and his grandfather head up to the big city to check out a recent suspicious death they saw in the newspaper (because they are bored), he is befriended by some charming young people in their 20s who clearly think he's adorbs for some reason. Someone ends up dead and there's a lot of running about, eating fancy food, chatting with the upper classes, etc. For some reason, Lord Edgington decides to bring his dog along for most of the adventure, which is fun if bizarre. As a dog owner myself, I'd also bring my dogs a lot more places with me if I could get away with it. Anyhow, as in all the previous books, ultimately there's a big gathering of all the suspects and the culprit is revealed to all, along with the clues which led to the capture.
I do have to say that this author's cozy murders are a little less cozy than those of some other authors because he's often killing off people who don't deserve to die... which is, of course, not a bad thing in general, but it does make you feel less happy to be running around solving a murder when you know that the result will just be closure for the sad, grieving parents or whatever. My personal fav cozy mysteries are usually those where the victim didn't deserve to be MURDERED, but also wasn't any great loss to the world, so you (the reader) can feel guiltless about callously reading about their (fictional) death for entertainment. Ah well. XD
January 1, 2026
Lord Edgington and his grandson Christopher go to London to see what the Bright Young People of London are up to. Treasure hunts are the entertainment of the day and one person has already been found dead. When a recent acquaintance ends up dead soon after, Chrissy and his grandfather can't help wonder if the two deaths are related. With Christopher and his grandfather on the case it is only a matter of time before they figure out who the killer is.
I am loving the Lord Edgington Investigates series! I love that I usually can't figure out the "who-done-it" until it is pointed out to me. Christopher cracks me up! He is a mixture of insecurities and "I-know-I'm-right" teenager-ness. He makes me laugh with his flair for the dramatic. Not just in his always empty stomach, but also in his wrapping up of the case speeches. His insights and his empathy for the people that he comes in contact with show that he is growing as the series continues. I enjoy that Lord Edgington insists that Christopher reasons things out and prove his theories. I also enjoy that each book can stand alone without revealing anything from past or future books. This is book 5 in the series. I read books 1-4 and then had to skip to book 6 and now back to book 5 and nothing was given away, no missing pieces. A great mystery series that keeps you guessing until the end.
I am loving the Lord Edgington Investigates series! I love that I usually can't figure out the "who-done-it" until it is pointed out to me. Christopher cracks me up! He is a mixture of insecurities and "I-know-I'm-right" teenager-ness. He makes me laugh with his flair for the dramatic. Not just in his always empty stomach, but also in his wrapping up of the case speeches. His insights and his empathy for the people that he comes in contact with show that he is growing as the series continues. I enjoy that Lord Edgington insists that Christopher reasons things out and prove his theories. I also enjoy that each book can stand alone without revealing anything from past or future books. This is book 5 in the series. I read books 1-4 and then had to skip to book 6 and now back to book 5 and nothing was given away, no missing pieces. A great mystery series that keeps you guessing until the end.
March 6, 2022
Following the death of Terence Pritt, a wealthy industrialist, Lord Edgington becomes interested in the group known as the Bright Young People. The group conducts a type of Treasure Hunt in the evenings around London. Lord Edgington and his grandson, Christopher, sign up for the next treasure hunt to get a better feeling for the group's participants.
When a young artist, Augustus Harred, is murdered in Westminster, it adds a new dimension to the investigation. With a number of high society participants, The Chronicle had both a reporter and the owner showing an interest in the events. Maybe Lord Edgington and Christopher can get an important clue from the Gargoyle Club, a place where both victims and many other participants regularly gather.
Who killed Augustus Harred? Was Terence Pritt murdered or was his death an accident? Are the two deaths related? Can Lord Edgington and Christopher untangle the mystery before someone else dies?
Benedict Brown has another wonderful mystery for Lord Edgington to solve with realistic situations, locations, and characters. This story will keep the reader involved and guessing clear to the end.
When a young artist, Augustus Harred, is murdered in Westminster, it adds a new dimension to the investigation. With a number of high society participants, The Chronicle had both a reporter and the owner showing an interest in the events. Maybe Lord Edgington and Christopher can get an important clue from the Gargoyle Club, a place where both victims and many other participants regularly gather.
Who killed Augustus Harred? Was Terence Pritt murdered or was his death an accident? Are the two deaths related? Can Lord Edgington and Christopher untangle the mystery before someone else dies?
Benedict Brown has another wonderful mystery for Lord Edgington to solve with realistic situations, locations, and characters. This story will keep the reader involved and guessing clear to the end.
August 13, 2023
Good story nicely written and strongly nationalistic. I was surprised that word kraut is used in front of German mother of VC recipient as British authors are usually extremely politically correct. Author conveniently forgot to mention that through Empire people of German descent were subjected to open robbery. In Australia they have been put in concentration camps (Boer War was good experience) and after war survivors were summarily expelled from Australia and their property divided by everybody who had chance - from Government to neighbors. Tragically half of those expelled couldn't even speak German and good part were born in Australia. I have nagging feeling that author got some inspiration for the book from (undeclared and fought by political and economy means) war between UK and EU (read Germany) during and post Brexit. Not a single author lives in the vacuum and contemporary happenings find their way (in many guises) in literary work. Now go and read this book (if you already didn't) it is well worth it!!
May 8, 2025
Best one so far…
This is the best one so far in the whodunit series starring Lord Edgington (retiree of Scotland Yard) and his grandson Chrissy (who much prefers Christopher, but who listens anyway?) Perhaps it’s because the story feels more connected to actual history and takes place in London with the ‘bright young things’, which broadens the stage set and number of suspects, that gives the story a snappier feel. It could be because Chrissy is growing up so he’s not quite so hapless and actually has his moments to shine. It might even be that we see different sides to Lord E as he coordinates with Scotland Yard, his old stomping grounds and colleagues. Probably, it’s putting it all together with unique characters and moving the story non-stop to a wholly satisfying wrap up that makes this one more memorable than the preceding books. Highly recommended if you like fun whodunnits with enough twists and turns to keep your brain cogs turning.
This is the best one so far in the whodunit series starring Lord Edgington (retiree of Scotland Yard) and his grandson Chrissy (who much prefers Christopher, but who listens anyway?) Perhaps it’s because the story feels more connected to actual history and takes place in London with the ‘bright young things’, which broadens the stage set and number of suspects, that gives the story a snappier feel. It could be because Chrissy is growing up so he’s not quite so hapless and actually has his moments to shine. It might even be that we see different sides to Lord E as he coordinates with Scotland Yard, his old stomping grounds and colleagues. Probably, it’s putting it all together with unique characters and moving the story non-stop to a wholly satisfying wrap up that makes this one more memorable than the preceding books. Highly recommended if you like fun whodunnits with enough twists and turns to keep your brain cogs turning.
September 12, 2025
This mystery in the series delves into the hedonistic world of the post-WW1 "Bright Young Things. As you might expect, not everyone and everything is quite as they first appear to be.
The first few chapters are character exposition, as Lord Edgington and now 17 year old grandson Christopher Prentiss only vaguely know one of the suspects. The middle segment gets kinda slow, as the detective duo get bogged down in frustrating deadends and conflicting stories. Lord Edgington's old co-workers at Scotland are helpful. The last third of the book moves along towards a dandy denoument, with a nifty surprise twist ending (As it turns out there were several 'fair play" hints to the guilty party early on.)
Part of the fun is the interplay between Grandfather and Grandson. It's respectfully challenging and needling each other. They both benefit from that interplay, especially Christopher.
The first few chapters are character exposition, as Lord Edgington and now 17 year old grandson Christopher Prentiss only vaguely know one of the suspects. The middle segment gets kinda slow, as the detective duo get bogged down in frustrating deadends and conflicting stories. Lord Edgington's old co-workers at Scotland are helpful. The last third of the book moves along towards a dandy denoument, with a nifty surprise twist ending (As it turns out there were several 'fair play" hints to the guilty party early on.)
Part of the fun is the interplay between Grandfather and Grandson. It's respectfully challenging and needling each other. They both benefit from that interplay, especially Christopher.
March 10, 2022
The best of the series
The Lord Edgington Investigates books have all been wonderful, but The Tangled Treasure Trail is by far the best. Lord Edgington and Christopher join a group called The Bright Young People hoping to find clues to a possible murder, and break the monotony of the cold winter months. Soon they are playing high spirited games that take them all over London. Christopher continues to grow with the help of his genius grandfather and some new friends who include him in their colorful group. Benedict Brown has created another wonderful mystery filled with amazing characters and a hard to solve mystery. These books are fun mysteries that capture the time period perfectly. The characters are so well written, so easy to care about and relate to. I am looking forward to the next book.
The Lord Edgington Investigates books have all been wonderful, but The Tangled Treasure Trail is by far the best. Lord Edgington and Christopher join a group called The Bright Young People hoping to find clues to a possible murder, and break the monotony of the cold winter months. Soon they are playing high spirited games that take them all over London. Christopher continues to grow with the help of his genius grandfather and some new friends who include him in their colorful group. Benedict Brown has created another wonderful mystery filled with amazing characters and a hard to solve mystery. These books are fun mysteries that capture the time period perfectly. The characters are so well written, so easy to care about and relate to. I am looking forward to the next book.
March 14, 2022
A Must-Read Mystery!!
Like a great wine, the Lord Edgington Mysteries just keep getting better! Book #5 in the series, “The Tangled Treasure Trail” doesn’t disappoint! Written from the perspective of a 17yr old boy who has recently begun accompanying his Grandfather (formerly a Superintendent with the Metropolitan Police in London) while solving mysterious murders. The books are well-researched, and a lovely romp through 1920’s England!
If you haven’t discovered these fun books yet, I suggest starting with the 1st, then read them in order. However, each book is a stand-alone, and you won’t be left scratching your head if you do read them out of order!
Hope you enjoy reading about Lord Edgington and his grandson, Christopher, (and don’t forget Delilah, their dog!) as much as I do.
Like a great wine, the Lord Edgington Mysteries just keep getting better! Book #5 in the series, “The Tangled Treasure Trail” doesn’t disappoint! Written from the perspective of a 17yr old boy who has recently begun accompanying his Grandfather (formerly a Superintendent with the Metropolitan Police in London) while solving mysterious murders. The books are well-researched, and a lovely romp through 1920’s England!
If you haven’t discovered these fun books yet, I suggest starting with the 1st, then read them in order. However, each book is a stand-alone, and you won’t be left scratching your head if you do read them out of order!
Hope you enjoy reading about Lord Edgington and his grandson, Christopher, (and don’t forget Delilah, their dog!) as much as I do.
July 6, 2022
The Game’s Afoot, Again! (or Chrissy Grows Up)
In this latest Lord Edgington Mystery, the stage is London, mostly at night and focuses on the escapades of the wealthy entitled young people known as The Bright Young Things. In this latest, murder takes a front row seat and once again Lord Edgington corrals his grandson, Chrissy, into the investigation. The pacing is swift, the plotting superb, dealing with everything from death and wartime espionage and treason, to the slow metamorphosis of Chrissy growing more sure of himself, and, in slowly but surely turning into a very likable young man. The writing as usual is wonderful and fast paced. There’s the usual ensemble of characters/suspects that keep you guessing to the end. Benedict Brown has once again, knocked it out of the park!
In this latest Lord Edgington Mystery, the stage is London, mostly at night and focuses on the escapades of the wealthy entitled young people known as The Bright Young Things. In this latest, murder takes a front row seat and once again Lord Edgington corrals his grandson, Chrissy, into the investigation. The pacing is swift, the plotting superb, dealing with everything from death and wartime espionage and treason, to the slow metamorphosis of Chrissy growing more sure of himself, and, in slowly but surely turning into a very likable young man. The writing as usual is wonderful and fast paced. There’s the usual ensemble of characters/suspects that keep you guessing to the end. Benedict Brown has once again, knocked it out of the park!
September 9, 2024
Typically fun book in this series. It's January. It's cold. And Christopher and his grandfather are reading the newspaper -- one story about the "bright young people" playing games at night across the capital and another about a wealthy industrialist found dead in his car. Lord Edgington declares it wasn't an accident or heart attack but murder and off they go.
As usual, the narrator is young Christopher who absolutely doesn't take himself too seriously. Sometimes the self-deprecation gets a bit annoying, as does his constant desire for more to eat and less physical activity. But he really does always step up in the end, even if he's often two steps behind his grandfather.
The solution had a twist that was unexpected -- perhaps slightly unfair -- but logical enough in the end. Really, the reader has only themselves to blame for falling for one or two red herrings.
As usual, the narrator is young Christopher who absolutely doesn't take himself too seriously. Sometimes the self-deprecation gets a bit annoying, as does his constant desire for more to eat and less physical activity. But he really does always step up in the end, even if he's often two steps behind his grandfather.
The solution had a twist that was unexpected -- perhaps slightly unfair -- but logical enough in the end. Really, the reader has only themselves to blame for falling for one or two red herrings.
March 9, 2022
Benedict Brown just keeps bringing better and better cozey mysterys with the mayhem. Intrigue and murder during the nineteen twenties. Can you imagine a retired Scotland Yard Chief Inspector letting his naive grandson tag along while investigating murder..while Benedict Brown has been writing a wonderful adventurous tale about just that. The characters are vibrant, colorful,and intriguing .London is the most perfect background for there latest mystery adventure you will become so immersed in the challenges the characters and the mysterys inside the mystery that you won't be able to set it aside until you've been saited and everything has become clear and adventurous mystery has been solved the thirst for answers quenched. 🤔😉😏 Kat
March 14, 2022
A Twisted and Tangled 1920s Mystery
Even as an American, I appreciate all the research Benedict Brown has put into this series. It brings the 1920s in London to life. Christopher and his grandfather, Lord Edgington are the perfect pair of adventurers and their relationship is entertaining. I love Chrissy’s humble character with a twist of sarcasm here and there. I found the Bright Young People story fascinating and similar in tone to the Roaring 20s in the US. If you are a fan of historical fiction, you will find this book quite accurate and entertaining as well. If you are a fan of mysteries,this book will take you on an adventure and keep you guessing until the villain is revealed!
Even as an American, I appreciate all the research Benedict Brown has put into this series. It brings the 1920s in London to life. Christopher and his grandfather, Lord Edgington are the perfect pair of adventurers and their relationship is entertaining. I love Chrissy’s humble character with a twist of sarcasm here and there. I found the Bright Young People story fascinating and similar in tone to the Roaring 20s in the US. If you are a fan of historical fiction, you will find this book quite accurate and entertaining as well. If you are a fan of mysteries,this book will take you on an adventure and keep you guessing until the villain is revealed!
October 10, 2023
Christopher is just trying to make it through his last year of school (he's not sure what he's supposed to do once he graduates) when his grandfather comes to take him out of school. There's been a death and Lord Edgington isn't sure that it was natural. Soon, the two are caught up in the world of the Bright Young Things. Unfortunately, one of the young people that they've befriended also dies, this time it is obviously murder.
Christopher is starting to mature a little bit from the first few books but is still a bit of a prig and more than a little naive yet. I'm enjoying this slow growing up of our main character. The mystery was a little thin but still an enjoyable story.
Christopher is starting to mature a little bit from the first few books but is still a bit of a prig and more than a little naive yet. I'm enjoying this slow growing up of our main character. The mystery was a little thin but still an enjoyable story.
March 16, 2022
Deserves 10 stars!
I absolutely love this series. Lord Edgington and Chrissey are two of my favorite characters. In this series I don't even try to figure out the killer because its more important to savore the characters and atmosphere. I love the descriptions of the aristocratic homes, the hotels, and in this book The Gargoyle Club. Not since Agatha Christie's Bertrams Hotel have I felt I was right there watching from the sidelines. I cannot wait for the next entry in this series!
I absolutely love this series. Lord Edgington and Chrissey are two of my favorite characters. In this series I don't even try to figure out the killer because its more important to savore the characters and atmosphere. I love the descriptions of the aristocratic homes, the hotels, and in this book The Gargoyle Club. Not since Agatha Christie's Bertrams Hotel have I felt I was right there watching from the sidelines. I cannot wait for the next entry in this series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews