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A Lady & Lady's Maid Mystery #8
A Fashionable Fatality
Set in the Downton Abbey era of post-WW1 England, Alyssa Maxwell’s latest historical mystery finds sleuthing duo Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her lady’s maid, Eva Huntford, investigating a murder at a house party attended by fashion royalty. This evocative, well-crafted historical series appeals to fans of Rhys Bowen, Deanna Raybourn and Victoria Thompson.
Amid the aftermath of the Great War and its hardships, it’s no wonder that many wish to rediscover life’s pleasures—parties, fashion, dancing. Still, Lady Phoebe and Eva are disconcerted when a small gathering at the home of Phoebe’s sister, Julia, becomes a far larger and more glamorous affair . . . Julia has invited her favorite French fashion designer, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, and Coco’s current beau, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco has brought an entourage of her own, including two models, and intends to use the gardens as a photographic setting for her latest creations. Madame Chanel is as outspoken as she is talented, offering a scathing critique of Phoebe’s fashion sense. There is tense competition between the models as well. When one of the guests is found dead of smoke inhalation, it appears to be a tragic accident. But was a footman really to blame for mistakenly closing the fireplace flue, or is there a more sinister explanation? Phoebe is determined to find out, despite the protestations of her sweetheart, Owen Seabright. Both above and below stairs, Phoebe and Eva uncover myriad motives—career ambition, romantic rivalries, and even deeper betrayals. For despite the surface beauty, there are ugly secrets in the world of Maison Chanel, ones that a killer will risk anything to protect. “Agatha Christie meets Downton Abbey…exemplary.” —Publishers Weekly on A Deadly Endowment
Amid the aftermath of the Great War and its hardships, it’s no wonder that many wish to rediscover life’s pleasures—parties, fashion, dancing. Still, Lady Phoebe and Eva are disconcerted when a small gathering at the home of Phoebe’s sister, Julia, becomes a far larger and more glamorous affair . . . Julia has invited her favorite French fashion designer, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, and Coco’s current beau, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco has brought an entourage of her own, including two models, and intends to use the gardens as a photographic setting for her latest creations. Madame Chanel is as outspoken as she is talented, offering a scathing critique of Phoebe’s fashion sense. There is tense competition between the models as well. When one of the guests is found dead of smoke inhalation, it appears to be a tragic accident. But was a footman really to blame for mistakenly closing the fireplace flue, or is there a more sinister explanation? Phoebe is determined to find out, despite the protestations of her sweetheart, Owen Seabright. Both above and below stairs, Phoebe and Eva uncover myriad motives—career ambition, romantic rivalries, and even deeper betrayals. For despite the surface beauty, there are ugly secrets in the world of Maison Chanel, ones that a killer will risk anything to protect. “Agatha Christie meets Downton Abbey…exemplary.” —Publishers Weekly on A Deadly Endowment
288 pages, Hardcover
Published January 24, 2023
47 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Maxwell
29 books1,080 followersAlyssa Maxwell is the author of The Gilded Newport Mysteries, inspired by her husband’s family whose Newport origins date back numerous generations. The series features the glamour of the Gilded Age and a sleuth who is a Newporter born and raised, and also a less "well-heeled" cousin of the Vanderbilt family. Alyssa also writes A Lady & Lady’s Maid Mysteries, an English-set series that begins as WWI is ending. She and her husband live in South Florida, where she is a member of the Florida chapter of the Mystery Writers of America and the South Florida Fiction Writers. You can visit her at http://alyssamaxwell.com, and find her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
March 5, 2023
Another entertaining addition who-done-it mystery to this engaging cozy mystery series.
September 1921 – Lady Julia has invited the new French designer Coco Chanel and her beau for a weekend party in the Cotswolds.
Chanel, unknown to Lady Julia, has invited photographer, models, and all the necessary trappings as she fully intends to use the opportunity to photograph her latest designs.
Chanel shows her decidedly obnoxious ways when dealing with her hosts and her employees alike. She pulls no punches when criticizing Lady Phoebe’s outfit.
When one of the models is found dead in her room due to smoke inhalation a footman is blamed, but secrets about some of Chanel’s other employees come to light and it is up to Phoebe and her lady’s maid Eva to ferret out the truth.
September 1921 – Lady Julia has invited the new French designer Coco Chanel and her beau for a weekend party in the Cotswolds.
Chanel, unknown to Lady Julia, has invited photographer, models, and all the necessary trappings as she fully intends to use the opportunity to photograph her latest designs.
Chanel shows her decidedly obnoxious ways when dealing with her hosts and her employees alike. She pulls no punches when criticizing Lady Phoebe’s outfit.
When one of the models is found dead in her room due to smoke inhalation a footman is blamed, but secrets about some of Chanel’s other employees come to light and it is up to Phoebe and her lady’s maid Eva to ferret out the truth.
January 14, 2023
I really like this series. It is such a unique premise and I like the authors way of writing. Phoebe and Eva are two fun MC's and I really like how the author writes from each POV, but that it is never confusing or obnoxious [there are SO MANY books out there that could take lessons on how to write a dual POV from this author] and at times, seems almost seamless in how it is presented. I also love how she writes Eva; she knows her place and would never dare to do anything that was improper, but yet she knows that she can both tell Phoebe anything and count on her as well for anything. They have such a great relationship and I also love how Phoebe never takes advantage of that or uses Eva ever. It really makes the books.
I had guessed the killer and some of the why, but there were absolutely parts of the reveal that were shocking and unexpected and I will admit that I may or may not have cheered for Eva at one point. Her love and devotion to "her Lady" really shines in this one, especially in the reveal.
Coco Chanel plays a big part in this story and even though I have read other things [NF] about her, I had forgotten just how unlikable she was [as its been awhile since I have read a NF about her; I will saw that this book renewed that interest and I will be looking to see if there are any new books out there on her and her life], but I will say that while she was greedy and manipulative and extremely selfish, she was also kind and generous to those she cared about [in her own weird twisted way of caring] and there is little of that in this book; I would have liked to see even just a glimmer of that, but totally understand why there is not because of the idea of idolization [the author explains it better than I in the afterward] and how Julia starts the story and how she ends it. It was very much food for thought in regards at how the world still looks at "stars" and their lives.
I had one major dislike and one major like with this book [which is pretty good for me in the dislike department, especially as of late]. The dislike was simple; Owen's treatment of Phoebe. They have been together for awhile now and her way of living and doing should NOT BE A SURPRISE to him and the way he reacts and treats her in this one was...appalling. Though some of it is resolved at the end, it was a huge red flag for me and I am hoping Owen doesn't turn out to be one of "those kind of men" as he has previously been a decent character and a good foil for Phoebe.
The major like is much lovelier - as of late, so many Historical Mysteries and Cozy Mysteries have been...tedious to read. Authors all of the sudden think they must bash the reader over the head with the same information over and over and over again in every chapter [sometimes told in a slightly different way, sometimes not] and it has ruined many a book for me. I was hesitant to dive into this one because of that very thing [some of my most favorite authors have succumbed to this stupid trend and I have been so disappointed as of late], but thankfully [], that was not the case here. There are moments of rehashing, but that was expected as Phoebe and Eva mostly investigate separately and they have to confer, but more often than not, when they do, there isn't a rehashing, especially if what they found was explained fully before they seek one or the other out to tell them and I cannot even begin to tell you how 1. relieved I was, and 2. how FREAKING refreshing it was. I haven't enjoyed a book of this genre so much in quite awhile.
I also need to say that I am grateful to my Mom forshovi..ahem, I mean recommending this series [over and over and over] to me [I read the first one simply so she'd stop and then just never stopped reading them LOL]. She was spot on about me loving them and that they'd be my jam and I am happy I finally gave in and I have not been sorry. Just don't tell her. ;-)
Thank you to NetGalley, Alyssa Maxwell, and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I had guessed the killer and some of the why, but there were absolutely parts of the reveal that were shocking and unexpected and I will admit that I may or may not have cheered for Eva at one point. Her love and devotion to "her Lady" really shines in this one, especially in the reveal.
Coco Chanel plays a big part in this story and even though I have read other things [NF] about her, I had forgotten just how unlikable she was [as its been awhile since I have read a NF about her; I will saw that this book renewed that interest and I will be looking to see if there are any new books out there on her and her life], but I will say that while she was greedy and manipulative and extremely selfish, she was also kind and generous to those she cared about [in her own weird twisted way of caring] and there is little of that in this book; I would have liked to see even just a glimmer of that, but totally understand why there is not because of the idea of idolization [the author explains it better than I in the afterward] and how Julia starts the story and how she ends it. It was very much food for thought in regards at how the world still looks at "stars" and their lives.
I had one major dislike and one major like with this book [which is pretty good for me in the dislike department, especially as of late]. The dislike was simple; Owen's treatment of Phoebe. They have been together for awhile now and her way of living and doing should NOT BE A SURPRISE to him and the way he reacts and treats her in this one was...appalling. Though some of it is resolved at the end, it was a huge red flag for me and I am hoping Owen doesn't turn out to be one of "those kind of men" as he has previously been a decent character and a good foil for Phoebe.
The major like is much lovelier - as of late, so many Historical Mysteries and Cozy Mysteries have been...tedious to read. Authors all of the sudden think they must bash the reader over the head with the same information over and over and over again in every chapter [sometimes told in a slightly different way, sometimes not] and it has ruined many a book for me. I was hesitant to dive into this one because of that very thing [some of my most favorite authors have succumbed to this stupid trend and I have been so disappointed as of late], but thankfully [], that was not the case here. There are moments of rehashing, but that was expected as Phoebe and Eva mostly investigate separately and they have to confer, but more often than not, when they do, there isn't a rehashing, especially if what they found was explained fully before they seek one or the other out to tell them and I cannot even begin to tell you how 1. relieved I was, and 2. how FREAKING refreshing it was. I haven't enjoyed a book of this genre so much in quite awhile.
I also need to say that I am grateful to my Mom for
Thank you to NetGalley, Alyssa Maxwell, and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2023
This was a well-laid out and well-paced mystery. There was nothing particularly bad about this one but it just didn’t grab me and pull me into the story. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve only read one other book in this series and I’ve lost a lot of back story or if the story itself just wasn’t appealing to me. There is a lot of research that went into the book and I did learn more about Coco Chanel, fashion, and WWII in France. I will revisit this title again once I catch up on the series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
February 4, 2023
This is my first in Alyssa Maxwell's series featuring sleuthing duo, Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her lady’s maid, Eva Huntford. It was an engrossing read and I didn't figure out the identity of the murderer before Phoebe. I am eager to read the earlier books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
March 6, 2023
Phoebe Renshaw has been invited to Allerton Place to visit her sister Julia for a long weekend. Phoebe is eager to see her little nephew, Charles and try to rekindle her relationship with Julia. Phoebe should have known there would be strings attached. When she's ambushed by Julia and Mademoiselle Coco Chanel for an attempt at a makeover, Phoebe feels uncomfortable. Then Coco invites the rest of her entourage from Maison Chanel to come stay without consulting Julia. Julia soon begins to wish them gone as the staff and guests cause chaos. When one of the guests ends up dead from smoke inhalation, Julia is ready to call it incompetency on behalf of the footman, Robert who lay the fire but Phoebe, Eva, Owen and even Theo are not convinced. Theo brings in the police who agree with Julia that is was an accident but Phoebe doesn't see how that could be. She wants answers and sets out to find them, sending Eva to interview the staff. The clues are puzzling as they provide any number of scenarios in which someone might wish to harm another but murder? Can they figure it out before Robert gets the sack and before someone else is killed?
This is another excellent adventure. While I've read and seen several mysteries featuring Coco Chanel, this was the best of them all. The mystery kept me guessing until very late at night and I never figured out whodunit. It was impossible to guess everything. The cozy part of the story is also well done with not too much fashion for this fashion-hating reader and not too much baby in keeping with the times. There was enough to learn about Coco Chanel and her revolutionary fashions (which I find ugly!). Then there's the development of the characters and their plotlines.
I was so upset for Phoebe when she walked into her sister's makeover ambush. I would never put up with that. She's a little too nice. Phoebe is tenacious and in this book, she doesn't act as reckless as she has in the past. What happens is not her fault. Her kind heart just needs to see justice done. Phoebe has come to a crossroads in her life. Her relationship with Owen is heating up. I was so happy he came to rescue her from snide comments about her looks and her style. I didn't see the point of giving her a makeover since Owen loves her the way she is. Apparently their relationship is somewhat of a secret still. Then Owen dares tell Phoebe he forbids her from investigating! Oh no he didn't! Never use the f word to a woman you love! I know he just wants to keep her safe and maybe they misunderstand one another but he could have found a better way to say or or teamed up to sleuth with her. I think they'd make an excellent partnership. He's charming most of the time but when he tries to control Phoebe, she has a tough decision to make. Does she still want to be with him? She loves him dearly but is it worth giving up her independence to marry the man she loves? No Phoebe! I hope it's just a misunderstanding and his words didn't come out the way he intended. I hope so.
Eva is also at a crossroads with Phoebe likely moving on to marry Owen at some point. Eva is so kind, polite and motherly. She's too selfless and won't even consider her own happiness without considering her ladies first. With fashions changing rapidly, maybe Amelia won't need Eva as a maid. Even so, I can see Eva staying on as a companion to look after Amelia. At nearly 30, I think she better marry the good constable before it's too late to have children of her own. She'd be a great mother. Her kindness towards strangers in this book exceeds normal friendliness. She goes above and beyond to help people and it may get her into trouble.
Julia is a complex character. On one hand she's a good mother to Charles, at least for the time. Spending time with your kid once a day while leaving him with the nurse is not our modern idea of good parenting but it was in the 1920s and she and Theo both show signs of loving and caring for Charles beyond a mere visit. She has motherly instincts and knows how and when to soothe her baby. I think she's doing a good job so far with mothering the boy. However, on the other hand, she's still selfish and incredible naïve about the lives of those who work for a living. She hero worships Coco Chanel and wants to be part of Coco's in crowd while still adhering to her family and class traditions. Like Phoebe, I felt frustrated when Julia stuck her head in the sand and refused to acknowledge anything was wrong. Her biggest fear is her own fault. She's stubborn and doesn't have a grounding in reality. Theo is a great guy and I'm not sure he deserves Julia. He's healed from his war wounds aside from a bit of puckered skin and he seems to love Charles as if the boy is his own. He supports Phoebe in everything she does and listens to what she has to say. They would have been a better match but I guess it's a case of opposites attract? Good thing Theo and Owen are friends and Theo, as master of Allerton Hall, can override Julia's ridiculous objections. As veterans and men of the world, they know injustice when they see it .
Was it too much to hope that Coco Chanel was our murderer? Of course she wasn't because real life historical figures never are in these books. I don't blame the authors. I'd be afraid I'd get sued, even with the disclaimer about people being used fictionally. I was frankly surprised no one tried to murder Coco! She is just an awful person. She is selfish, egotistical, cruel and manipulative. She ALWAYS gets what she wanted. Mostly. Coco is abusive towards the staff even shocking Julia. Julia at least knows to ask and say please and thank you. Coco once dated Czar Nicholas's first cousin so that may explain her attitude but she herself was nothing more than a peasant so to order her staff AND Julia's staff AND Eva around like they're worms beneath her aristocratic feet is ridiculous. Coco railroads Julia and Phoebe into doing something they don't want to do. She doesn't understand the nuances of etiquette in their world. In fact, she's trying to overrule them and sleep her way to the top by marrying "Chessy", the Earl of Chesterfield.
A fictional character, Chessy is friendly with Theo - old school ties and all that. He arrives uninvited and proceeds to share a bedroom with Coco and possibly others. That's a shocking breach of etiquette and truly embarrassing for Julia and Theo. It's not even clear whether Julia and Theo share a room. Chessy tries to play the affable chap and act ignorant of all the drama going on around him but I think he's smarmy. I get bad vibes off him. At best he's a womanizer and a creep. At worst, he's a lying murderer.
The victim, Suzette, was a model for Chanel. Once the ingenue of Maison Chanel, she became a little more jaded as she got older. She was vain and all the success had gone to her head. Suzette was rumored to have been involved with one or more of the male visitors in the past and possibly present. She let her jealousy of a new model overcome her sense and it may have cost her her life. Suzette may have feared losing her job and being out on the streets. What would happen to her if she was fired? She had a hard life, living in German-occupied northern France during the war. I can well believe she clawed her way to the top, like Coco, and fears being sent back to poverty.
That fear may have driven her to be unkind towards India, the new "it" girl. India, the daughter of a wealthy horse breeder, is younger, fresh-faced, innocent and lovely. She's enjoying modeling and being the center of attention. I really liked her at first and thought she was sweet and charming. Then she became the object of Suzette's jealousy and it seemed as if India was also jealous and angry. She was heard threatening revenge! Please don't say she's the murderer! After awhile, she begins to seem not so charming but more of a spoiled rich girl trying to rebel against her parents' strict rules. Some of her motive I understand but she goes beyond normal rebellious teenage behavior, I guess. I don't understand the significance of the information Amelia gathered but Phoebe was shocked by it so that's a big deal.
The photographer, Narcisse, is mentioned a lot while barely appearing on page. He has a way with India, drawing out a shy smile and showcasing her fresh charm. He's an artist and often battles with Coco over art vs. advertising. Narcisse may have been involved with Suzette at one point. They may have had a lovers' quarrel. Did it cause him to kill her? I'm not sure I like him. I think he's one of the post-war cynical types. Que sera sera? He gets rude with Eva but she was pushing him. Marcelle, a young makeup artist on the photoshoot, seems like a nice girl. She suffered during the war and is now achieving success even if it's not quite what she dreamed of. She's artistic so I hope she can move on to more fun pursuits than working for demanding Mademoiselle Coco. Francoise is Coco's right-hand woman. An older woman who wears trousers, she's an excellent businesswoman and manages the business side of Maison Chanel. She's intelligent, calm and resourceful- not the passionate Frenchwoman Suzette and Coco appear to be or the dramatic, passionate artiste like Narcisse.
Eva tries to befriend the staff of Maison Chanel. Remie, Coco's maid, doesn't seem to want to be befriended. Coco's demands are unreasonable and Eva is willing to help and even keep her opinions to herself but Remie seems reluctant to accept Eva's generosity. . That tells me Coco is a demanding employer and cruel to Remie if Remie doesn't follow her exact orders. I feel bad for Remie and I wouldn't be surprised if she was the murderer because she was doing something Coco said in the heat of the moment or what she thought Mademoiselle would want. That would be the real tragedy of the story. Her life would be lost because I know Coco would lie to save herself and not say "Oh no Remie! You misunderstood! How could you?" Non, that is not the way of Mademoiselle Coco! Poor Remie. Coco is also beastly to Claudette, the wardrobe mistress. Claudette may or may not be involved in a scheme and while that's not right, she's innocent unless proven guilty but once again that is not Coco's way. Coco is beastly towards her and if Coco were the victim, I'd say Claudette did it but I don't see a motive for her to kill Suzette. Unless... there were a love triangle?
Robert, the footman, seems like a hard-working, conscientious young man and I don't believe for a minute he closed the flue. Either on purpose or accidentally. Eva tries to mother him too but she doesn't get too far learning about his life. I think he appreciates her kindness and assistance though. He's just quiet. Mr. Tewes, the butler, seems strict but fair. I would hope he would approach Theo to vouch for Bobby.
I always look forward to whatever Alyssa Maxwell has to share with us next and this was no exception. I'm curious to know whether the series will end here, wrap-up with one more book or keep going.
Content:
passionate kissing
mild attempt at sexual assault
arguing with something thrown
love affairs
mild descriptions of wartime violence
This is another excellent adventure. While I've read and seen several mysteries featuring Coco Chanel, this was the best of them all. The mystery kept me guessing until very late at night and I never figured out whodunit. It was impossible to guess everything. The cozy part of the story is also well done with not too much fashion for this fashion-hating reader and not too much baby in keeping with the times. There was enough to learn about Coco Chanel and her revolutionary fashions (which I find ugly!). Then there's the development of the characters and their plotlines.
I was so upset for Phoebe when she walked into her sister's makeover ambush. I would never put up with that. She's a little too nice. Phoebe is tenacious and in this book, she doesn't act as reckless as she has in the past. What happens is not her fault. Her kind heart just needs to see justice done. Phoebe has come to a crossroads in her life. Her relationship with Owen is heating up. I was so happy he came to rescue her from snide comments about her looks and her style. I didn't see the point of giving her a makeover since Owen loves her the way she is. Apparently their relationship is somewhat of a secret still. Then Owen dares tell Phoebe he forbids her from investigating! Oh no he didn't! Never use the f word to a woman you love! I know he just wants to keep her safe and maybe they misunderstand one another but he could have found a better way to say or or teamed up to sleuth with her. I think they'd make an excellent partnership. He's charming most of the time but when he tries to control Phoebe, she has a tough decision to make. Does she still want to be with him? She loves him dearly but is it worth giving up her independence to marry the man she loves? No Phoebe! I hope it's just a misunderstanding and his words didn't come out the way he intended. I hope so.
Eva is also at a crossroads with Phoebe likely moving on to marry Owen at some point. Eva is so kind, polite and motherly. She's too selfless and won't even consider her own happiness without considering her ladies first. With fashions changing rapidly, maybe Amelia won't need Eva as a maid. Even so, I can see Eva staying on as a companion to look after Amelia. At nearly 30, I think she better marry the good constable before it's too late to have children of her own. She'd be a great mother. Her kindness towards strangers in this book exceeds normal friendliness. She goes above and beyond to help people and it may get her into trouble.
Julia is a complex character. On one hand she's a good mother to Charles, at least for the time. Spending time with your kid once a day while leaving him with the nurse is not our modern idea of good parenting but it was in the 1920s and she and Theo both show signs of loving and caring for Charles beyond a mere visit. She has motherly instincts and knows how and when to soothe her baby. I think she's doing a good job so far with mothering the boy. However, on the other hand, she's still selfish and incredible naïve about the lives of those who work for a living. She hero worships Coco Chanel and wants to be part of Coco's in crowd while still adhering to her family and class traditions. Like Phoebe, I felt frustrated when Julia stuck her head in the sand and refused to acknowledge anything was wrong. Her biggest fear is her own fault. She's stubborn and doesn't have a grounding in reality. Theo is a great guy and I'm not sure he deserves Julia. He's healed from his war wounds aside from a bit of puckered skin and he seems to love Charles as if the boy is his own. He supports Phoebe in everything she does and listens to what she has to say. They would have been a better match but I guess it's a case of opposites attract? Good thing Theo and Owen are friends and Theo, as master of Allerton Hall, can override Julia's ridiculous objections. As veterans and men of the world, they know injustice when they see it .
Was it too much to hope that Coco Chanel was our murderer? Of course she wasn't because real life historical figures never are in these books. I don't blame the authors. I'd be afraid I'd get sued, even with the disclaimer about people being used fictionally. I was frankly surprised no one tried to murder Coco! She is just an awful person. She is selfish, egotistical, cruel and manipulative. She ALWAYS gets what she wanted. Mostly. Coco is abusive towards the staff even shocking Julia. Julia at least knows to ask and say please and thank you. Coco once dated Czar Nicholas's first cousin so that may explain her attitude but she herself was nothing more than a peasant so to order her staff AND Julia's staff AND Eva around like they're worms beneath her aristocratic feet is ridiculous. Coco railroads Julia and Phoebe into doing something they don't want to do. She doesn't understand the nuances of etiquette in their world. In fact, she's trying to overrule them and sleep her way to the top by marrying "Chessy", the Earl of Chesterfield.
A fictional character, Chessy is friendly with Theo - old school ties and all that. He arrives uninvited and proceeds to share a bedroom with Coco and possibly others. That's a shocking breach of etiquette and truly embarrassing for Julia and Theo. It's not even clear whether Julia and Theo share a room. Chessy tries to play the affable chap and act ignorant of all the drama going on around him but I think he's smarmy. I get bad vibes off him. At best he's a womanizer and a creep. At worst, he's a lying murderer.
The victim, Suzette, was a model for Chanel. Once the ingenue of Maison Chanel, she became a little more jaded as she got older. She was vain and all the success had gone to her head. Suzette was rumored to have been involved with one or more of the male visitors in the past and possibly present. She let her jealousy of a new model overcome her sense and it may have cost her her life. Suzette may have feared losing her job and being out on the streets. What would happen to her if she was fired? She had a hard life, living in German-occupied northern France during the war. I can well believe she clawed her way to the top, like Coco, and fears being sent back to poverty.
That fear may have driven her to be unkind towards India, the new "it" girl. India, the daughter of a wealthy horse breeder, is younger, fresh-faced, innocent and lovely. She's enjoying modeling and being the center of attention. I really liked her at first and thought she was sweet and charming. Then she became the object of Suzette's jealousy and it seemed as if India was also jealous and angry. She was heard threatening revenge! Please don't say she's the murderer! After awhile, she begins to seem not so charming but more of a spoiled rich girl trying to rebel against her parents' strict rules. Some of her motive I understand but she goes beyond normal rebellious teenage behavior, I guess. I don't understand the significance of the information Amelia gathered but Phoebe was shocked by it so that's a big deal.
The photographer, Narcisse, is mentioned a lot while barely appearing on page. He has a way with India, drawing out a shy smile and showcasing her fresh charm. He's an artist and often battles with Coco over art vs. advertising. Narcisse may have been involved with Suzette at one point. They may have had a lovers' quarrel. Did it cause him to kill her? I'm not sure I like him. I think he's one of the post-war cynical types. Que sera sera? He gets rude with Eva but she was pushing him. Marcelle, a young makeup artist on the photoshoot, seems like a nice girl. She suffered during the war and is now achieving success even if it's not quite what she dreamed of. She's artistic so I hope she can move on to more fun pursuits than working for demanding Mademoiselle Coco. Francoise is Coco's right-hand woman. An older woman who wears trousers, she's an excellent businesswoman and manages the business side of Maison Chanel. She's intelligent, calm and resourceful- not the passionate Frenchwoman Suzette and Coco appear to be or the dramatic, passionate artiste like Narcisse.
Eva tries to befriend the staff of Maison Chanel. Remie, Coco's maid, doesn't seem to want to be befriended. Coco's demands are unreasonable and Eva is willing to help and even keep her opinions to herself but Remie seems reluctant to accept Eva's generosity. . That tells me Coco is a demanding employer and cruel to Remie if Remie doesn't follow her exact orders. I feel bad for Remie and I wouldn't be surprised if she was the murderer because she was doing something Coco said in the heat of the moment or what she thought Mademoiselle would want. That would be the real tragedy of the story. Her life would be lost because I know Coco would lie to save herself and not say "Oh no Remie! You misunderstood! How could you?" Non, that is not the way of Mademoiselle Coco! Poor Remie. Coco is also beastly to Claudette, the wardrobe mistress. Claudette may or may not be involved in a scheme and while that's not right, she's innocent unless proven guilty but once again that is not Coco's way. Coco is beastly towards her and if Coco were the victim, I'd say Claudette did it but I don't see a motive for her to kill Suzette. Unless... there were a love triangle?
Robert, the footman, seems like a hard-working, conscientious young man and I don't believe for a minute he closed the flue. Either on purpose or accidentally. Eva tries to mother him too but she doesn't get too far learning about his life. I think he appreciates her kindness and assistance though. He's just quiet. Mr. Tewes, the butler, seems strict but fair. I would hope he would approach Theo to vouch for Bobby.
I always look forward to whatever Alyssa Maxwell has to share with us next and this was no exception. I'm curious to know whether the series will end here, wrap-up with one more book or keep going.
Content:
passionate kissing
mild attempt at sexual assault
arguing with something thrown
love affairs
mild descriptions of wartime violence
February 27, 2023
This is one of my favorite installments in this series.
I like that Julia is joining the detective team, though very loosely.
I like that Julia is joining the detective team, though very loosely.
January 23, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review A Fashionable Fatality. All opinions and comments are my own.
Lady Phoebe Renshaw (our lady of the Lady and Lady’s Maid series) has come to visit her sister in the Cotswolds as A Fashionable Fatality begins. She’s immediately accosted by Coco Chanel, who hates everything about the way she’s dressed. No, Mademoiselle Chanel doesn’t turn out to be the murder victim (although the way she acts throughout, no one would have blamed our heroine for finishing her off). But a murder victim there soon is, and soon Lady Phoebe (and Eva Huntford, her maid, equally in the thick of things) get busy figuring out whodunit. And author Alyssa Maxwell entertains us with a 1920s fashion parade while reminding readers that the past is a powerful motive for murder.
Lots of suspects in this one; Lady Phoebe and Eva definitely have their hands full. Our author makes sure that there are plenty of twists and turns to keep the guessing front and center. It’s all worked out in the end, of course.
Since A Fashionable Fatality is part of a series, there’s the personal plot lines to be aware of. Phoebe has some good news and bad news; good news on the individual front (after some soul-searching) and bad news from that pesky French dress designer. Our author demonstrates that while many things had changed after the war, young ladies of the “upper class” were still expected to conduct themselves in a certain way. A Fashionable Fatality won’t disappoint for those who like their historical mysteries to follow the social conventions of the time, with a dead body thrown in every so often, of course.
An Author’s Note enlightens readers on the real Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel and her significance to this story. Chanel had quite the colorful life, and that life, especially during WWII has come under scrutiny, much of it negative. Ms. Maxwell includes a reminder that anyone can have a dark side, and it’s a lesson that should be remembered.
Lady Phoebe Renshaw (our lady of the Lady and Lady’s Maid series) has come to visit her sister in the Cotswolds as A Fashionable Fatality begins. She’s immediately accosted by Coco Chanel, who hates everything about the way she’s dressed. No, Mademoiselle Chanel doesn’t turn out to be the murder victim (although the way she acts throughout, no one would have blamed our heroine for finishing her off). But a murder victim there soon is, and soon Lady Phoebe (and Eva Huntford, her maid, equally in the thick of things) get busy figuring out whodunit. And author Alyssa Maxwell entertains us with a 1920s fashion parade while reminding readers that the past is a powerful motive for murder.
Lots of suspects in this one; Lady Phoebe and Eva definitely have their hands full. Our author makes sure that there are plenty of twists and turns to keep the guessing front and center. It’s all worked out in the end, of course.
Since A Fashionable Fatality is part of a series, there’s the personal plot lines to be aware of. Phoebe has some good news and bad news; good news on the individual front (after some soul-searching) and bad news from that pesky French dress designer. Our author demonstrates that while many things had changed after the war, young ladies of the “upper class” were still expected to conduct themselves in a certain way. A Fashionable Fatality won’t disappoint for those who like their historical mysteries to follow the social conventions of the time, with a dead body thrown in every so often, of course.
An Author’s Note enlightens readers on the real Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel and her significance to this story. Chanel had quite the colorful life, and that life, especially during WWII has come under scrutiny, much of it negative. Ms. Maxwell includes a reminder that anyone can have a dark side, and it’s a lesson that should be remembered.
January 7, 2023
The eighth in A Lady and a Lady's Maid mystery series has Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her maid Eva Huntford attending a house party at Lady Phoebe's sister Julia's home. Also in attendance are fashion designer Coco Chanel and her retinue who are there to take some photos of Coco's newest collection.
There are lots of undercurrents among the retinue. The photographer Narcisse seems to have conducted affairs with a few of them. And Coco's lover Ralph Hewitt-Davies, Earl of Chesterhaven, has also had an affair with the lead mannequin Suzette Villiers who is extremely jealous that Coco has brought in a new, younger mannequin named India Vale.
When Suzette is found dead in her bedroom from smoke inhalation, Julia wants to blame the head footman for not checking that the flue was open, but Phoebe and Eva are more inclined to believe that it was murder.
As they investigate, they learn more about the twisted history Suzette had with the others in Coco's retinue. And Phoebe is busy trying to keep her sister from falling for Coco's pressure to model her new line of clothing - something no upper class woman in 1921 England would ever be allowed to do. While Phoebe herself is tempted by Coco's new line that takes male tweeds and remakes them in a much more feminine way.
Phoebe is also having some qualms about her beau Owen's vision of their future. He seems to have been developing dictatorial tendencies that make Phoebe fear for her independence.
I enjoyed this mystery. I liked that Phoebe conducted the above stairs aspect of the investigation while Eva ably handled the below stairs aspects of the investigation. I liked the way they worked as almost equal partners considering the barriers class imposed.
This is the first of the series that I have read. I am eager to read earlier books in this series to learn more about the other mysteries Lady Phoebe and Eva have solved.
There are lots of undercurrents among the retinue. The photographer Narcisse seems to have conducted affairs with a few of them. And Coco's lover Ralph Hewitt-Davies, Earl of Chesterhaven, has also had an affair with the lead mannequin Suzette Villiers who is extremely jealous that Coco has brought in a new, younger mannequin named India Vale.
When Suzette is found dead in her bedroom from smoke inhalation, Julia wants to blame the head footman for not checking that the flue was open, but Phoebe and Eva are more inclined to believe that it was murder.
As they investigate, they learn more about the twisted history Suzette had with the others in Coco's retinue. And Phoebe is busy trying to keep her sister from falling for Coco's pressure to model her new line of clothing - something no upper class woman in 1921 England would ever be allowed to do. While Phoebe herself is tempted by Coco's new line that takes male tweeds and remakes them in a much more feminine way.
Phoebe is also having some qualms about her beau Owen's vision of their future. He seems to have been developing dictatorial tendencies that make Phoebe fear for her independence.
I enjoyed this mystery. I liked that Phoebe conducted the above stairs aspect of the investigation while Eva ably handled the below stairs aspects of the investigation. I liked the way they worked as almost equal partners considering the barriers class imposed.
This is the first of the series that I have read. I am eager to read earlier books in this series to learn more about the other mysteries Lady Phoebe and Eva have solved.
December 29, 2022
A Fashionable Fatality is the eighth in the quirky A Lady and Lady's Maid Mystery series. This time the setting is in post WWII London. After such horrors and devastation glamour and fun are de rigeur. The story is jam packed with historical bits and figures such as "Coco" Chanel to add realistic flavour.
Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her lady's maid Eva are are witty and also make a fantastic sleuthing duo. Phoebe's sister Julia married the Marquis of Allington, one of Phoebe's favourite people. Theo loves Phoebe like a sister. And then there's Owen...sigh... A house party is held at the Allington's and it sizzles with glamour. "Coco" Chanel and her entourage show up along with other surprises in the form of models. When a woman is discovered dead, there is a logical reason, isn't there? Well, thankfully Phoebe and Eva are there to wade through the clues. The conventional vs unconventional mores of the time are fun to ponder.
Historical Fiction fans who enjoy slivers of preposterousness, spades of wit and oodles of gorgeous details (in this case, fashion) be sure to grab this series. Enjoy it for what it is. Pure escapist delight. The upstairs/downstairs aspect wins me every time. For me it transcends the mystery itself.
My sincere thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this clever and charming novel and for introducing me to a fabulous series!
Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her lady's maid Eva are are witty and also make a fantastic sleuthing duo. Phoebe's sister Julia married the Marquis of Allington, one of Phoebe's favourite people. Theo loves Phoebe like a sister. And then there's Owen...sigh... A house party is held at the Allington's and it sizzles with glamour. "Coco" Chanel and her entourage show up along with other surprises in the form of models. When a woman is discovered dead, there is a logical reason, isn't there? Well, thankfully Phoebe and Eva are there to wade through the clues. The conventional vs unconventional mores of the time are fun to ponder.
Historical Fiction fans who enjoy slivers of preposterousness, spades of wit and oodles of gorgeous details (in this case, fashion) be sure to grab this series. Enjoy it for what it is. Pure escapist delight. The upstairs/downstairs aspect wins me every time. For me it transcends the mystery itself.
My sincere thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this clever and charming novel and for introducing me to a fabulous series!
March 14, 2023
Another charming Historical Mystery from the ever-consistent Alyssa Maxwell.
There’s really nothing new here for the genre, but this is a charming and entertaining mystery nonetheless, with the lovely Phoebe and Eva at the center.
This time there’s a fashion angle to the story, and it’s one that plays pretty well despite the fact that we’ve seen Coco Chanel show up in many a novel is similar fashion (pun intended) before.
This series has less atmosphere and sense of place than my favorites in the genre, but Maxwell always comes through with a cleverly-plotted and solved mystery, and her characters (though archetypal), are always likable and compelling.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
There’s really nothing new here for the genre, but this is a charming and entertaining mystery nonetheless, with the lovely Phoebe and Eva at the center.
This time there’s a fashion angle to the story, and it’s one that plays pretty well despite the fact that we’ve seen Coco Chanel show up in many a novel is similar fashion (pun intended) before.
This series has less atmosphere and sense of place than my favorites in the genre, but Maxwell always comes through with a cleverly-plotted and solved mystery, and her characters (though archetypal), are always likable and compelling.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
March 10, 2023
Very fun cozy, the usual upper class British 1920’s mystery. Light reading
October 4, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this advanced review copy, which I voluntarily read. All thoughts are my own.
Alyssa Maxwell does it again with "A Fashionable Fatality" the latest installment of the Lady and Lady's Maid series. In this one, Phoebe and Eva are guests of Phoebe's sister Julia, now Lady Allerton. It's something of a house party, and the other guests are friends of Julia. One of them is Coco Chanel, who took it upon herself to invite a few others. One of those few others is who ends up dead. Naturally, Phoebe and Eva spend the majority of the rest of the book trying to figure out whodunit.
It was an engrossing and entertaining read, especially since I didn't figure who the murderer was until Phoebe did. I must say I was surprised, but I could empathize with the killer's reason for committing the crime. I especially appreciated the afterword provided giving more details about Coco Chanel's life and personality, which was on display in the story itself. It makes me want to read her biography, to learn more and to see if I come away with the same assessment of her that Maxwell has.
If you like mysteries set in Downtown Abbey era, I recommend this book, and the whole series for that matter. You won't be disappointed.
Alyssa Maxwell does it again with "A Fashionable Fatality" the latest installment of the Lady and Lady's Maid series. In this one, Phoebe and Eva are guests of Phoebe's sister Julia, now Lady Allerton. It's something of a house party, and the other guests are friends of Julia. One of them is Coco Chanel, who took it upon herself to invite a few others. One of those few others is who ends up dead. Naturally, Phoebe and Eva spend the majority of the rest of the book trying to figure out whodunit.
It was an engrossing and entertaining read, especially since I didn't figure who the murderer was until Phoebe did. I must say I was surprised, but I could empathize with the killer's reason for committing the crime. I especially appreciated the afterword provided giving more details about Coco Chanel's life and personality, which was on display in the story itself. It makes me want to read her biography, to learn more and to see if I come away with the same assessment of her that Maxwell has.
If you like mysteries set in Downtown Abbey era, I recommend this book, and the whole series for that matter. You won't be disappointed.
October 2, 2022
Imagine if the Great Gatsby had instead been a fun cozy mystery.
Doesn't that sound amazing! I know I would have loved to read that!
Well, this book definitely gives off that vibe. Phoebe definitely feels like Daisy. And Eva, for whatever reason, feels like a lady's maid version of Nick. Even the boyfriend Owen reminds me a bit of Gatsby - as he should have been, of course.
Throw into that mix a famous designer (Coco Chanel, of all people) and a little bit of murder mystery sleuthing. This book is a quick, fun read with just enough glitz and glamour to feel Roaring 20s.
"With a gasp, she forgot everything else going on around her, and broke into a grin of delight. 'Owen!' They met halfway up - or down - the stairs, and if Phoebe worried about teetering on the step, Owen's strong embrace held her steady."
Stylistically just the thing for fans of Fitzgerald and cozies.
Doesn't that sound amazing! I know I would have loved to read that!
Well, this book definitely gives off that vibe. Phoebe definitely feels like Daisy. And Eva, for whatever reason, feels like a lady's maid version of Nick. Even the boyfriend Owen reminds me a bit of Gatsby - as he should have been, of course.
Throw into that mix a famous designer (Coco Chanel, of all people) and a little bit of murder mystery sleuthing. This book is a quick, fun read with just enough glitz and glamour to feel Roaring 20s.
"With a gasp, she forgot everything else going on around her, and broke into a grin of delight. 'Owen!' They met halfway up - or down - the stairs, and if Phoebe worried about teetering on the step, Owen's strong embrace held her steady."
Stylistically just the thing for fans of Fitzgerald and cozies.
October 25, 2022
I've read several nonfiction accounts that support the self-centered ruthlessness of Coco Chanel. The descriptions of her behaviors, the way she treated her employees, and the detailed description of her clothing designs all ring true.
Phoebe, Eva, and Mme Chanel were invited to Julia's home. None of the entourage were invited, and that sparks the rest of the tale. First untoward event is a riding incident caused by a foolish young woman. Then another is dead of smoke inhalation with the wrong person accused. The sisters have different views on whether the fire was an accident or deliberate. And so the sleuthing begins! A good read.
It is a well formulated story with many fascinating, if exasperating, characters and excellent world building. A nice easy read, I loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Phoebe, Eva, and Mme Chanel were invited to Julia's home. None of the entourage were invited, and that sparks the rest of the tale. First untoward event is a riding incident caused by a foolish young woman. Then another is dead of smoke inhalation with the wrong person accused. The sisters have different views on whether the fire was an accident or deliberate. And so the sleuthing begins! A good read.
It is a well formulated story with many fascinating, if exasperating, characters and excellent world building. A nice easy read, I loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
August 22, 2022
A Fashionable Fatality is another book in the ongoing adventures of Lady Phoebe and her lady's maid Eva.
It is post WWI and Phoebe's sister Julia is holding what was to be a small soiree. However, when Julia's guest Coco Chanel arrives with her own entourage it becomes a whole different party. Coco has brought two models with her to showcase her newest fashions with photographs in the garden.
The models are quite competitive and there is a great dead of stress in the air. When one of the guests is found dead due to smoke inhalation it is up to Phoebe and Eva to get to the bottom of just what happened.
I enjoy these cozy historical books with their fascination characters. Coco Chanel was a fun, albeit annoying, addition to the story!
It is post WWI and Phoebe's sister Julia is holding what was to be a small soiree. However, when Julia's guest Coco Chanel arrives with her own entourage it becomes a whole different party. Coco has brought two models with her to showcase her newest fashions with photographs in the garden.
The models are quite competitive and there is a great dead of stress in the air. When one of the guests is found dead due to smoke inhalation it is up to Phoebe and Eva to get to the bottom of just what happened.
I enjoy these cozy historical books with their fascination characters. Coco Chanel was a fun, albeit annoying, addition to the story!
October 17, 2025
Lady Phoebe and her ladies' maid Eva are visiting the new home of Phoebe's older, perfect sister, and find among the guests the hot new designer Coco Chanel and her aristocratic boyfriend. Unbeknownst to Julia, Chanel has brought along her staff, models and a cameraman so she can use the manor's grounds as background for her fashion shots. When one of the models is found dead, Phoebe (and her visiting beau) suspect murder, although the police will gladly settle for an accident.
Read
October 20, 2022Lady Phoebe Renshaw, accompanied by her lady’s maid Eva Huntford, is attending a house party at the home of her sister, Julia. She’s surprised to find that Julia has also invited fashion designer, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, and her current paramour, the Earl of Chesterhaven. And no one is pleased when Coco invites her entire entourage, announcing that Allerton Place would be the perfect backdrop for a fashion shoot. All does not go smoothly due to competition between Coco’s two model’s, Tensions escalate quickly, and when one of the models is found dead in her bedroom, Phoebe and Eva find themselves investigating a murder.
The core characters of Phoebe and Eva continue to be a major draw. They each have their roles to play in the investigation, obtaining information in their own ways—Phoebe upstairs, and Eva downstairs. I was happy to see Phoebe growing as an individual. She has always been a strong female protagonist, but here she deftly stands her ground with regards to her developing relationship with her long-time admirer, Owen. It was also very interesting to gain understanding of Eva’s concerns about her future now that Phoebe has grown into a confident young woman.
The mystery was intriguing, and while determining the why for the murder was easy, there were several suspects who could have fulfilled the role of murderer. The murder though was pushed aside by the Coco Chanel fashion subplot. I love a historic subplot, but this one was not of any real interest to me, nor was the use of Chanel to move the plot along. I will say that this had the best capture of a murderer that I’ve seen in some time!
The period and setting of an aristocratic manor house party in the early 1920s was well thought out and vividly described. And the author provides a great deal of insight into the well-know class system of the British aristocracy and their servants, as well as the classes within a business such as Chanel’s.
Really, Julia, how you speak to your help.” Mademoiselle Chanel shook her head and tsked. “You pay their wages, do you not?”
The use of real people as characters has it’s advantages and disadvantages. Bringing a character like Chanel (and her “what’s in it for me” personality) into the story introduced a variety of emotions and situations that fed the narrative quite well. And while I did appreciated the afterward which delved into the life of Coco Chanel, her life and some of her flaws, I’m not sure why the author chose not to include certain information that I find important about her. Regarding Chanel’s activities during World War II, the author makes the statement “During WWII and the years leading up to the war, she proved herself to have no loyalties except to her own profits, no sense of morality but what benefited herself.” Yet the author provides no particulars. The most telling omissions are Chanel’s affair with a high ranking German officer, passing information obtained during “business trips” to Spain on to Nazi officials, and her attempt to reclaim a portion of her business by using the Nazi’s new laws which forced Jews to give up their businesses.
So, while not my favorite book to come out of this series, all in all, this was a good cozy mystery that made for light and mildly entertaining reading.
Source: NetGalley and Kensington Books
The core characters of Phoebe and Eva continue to be a major draw. They each have their roles to play in the investigation, obtaining information in their own ways—Phoebe upstairs, and Eva downstairs. I was happy to see Phoebe growing as an individual. She has always been a strong female protagonist, but here she deftly stands her ground with regards to her developing relationship with her long-time admirer, Owen. It was also very interesting to gain understanding of Eva’s concerns about her future now that Phoebe has grown into a confident young woman.
The mystery was intriguing, and while determining the why for the murder was easy, there were several suspects who could have fulfilled the role of murderer. The murder though was pushed aside by the Coco Chanel fashion subplot. I love a historic subplot, but this one was not of any real interest to me, nor was the use of Chanel to move the plot along. I will say that this had the best capture of a murderer that I’ve seen in some time!
The period and setting of an aristocratic manor house party in the early 1920s was well thought out and vividly described. And the author provides a great deal of insight into the well-know class system of the British aristocracy and their servants, as well as the classes within a business such as Chanel’s.
Really, Julia, how you speak to your help.” Mademoiselle Chanel shook her head and tsked. “You pay their wages, do you not?”
The use of real people as characters has it’s advantages and disadvantages. Bringing a character like Chanel (and her “what’s in it for me” personality) into the story introduced a variety of emotions and situations that fed the narrative quite well. And while I did appreciated the afterward which delved into the life of Coco Chanel, her life and some of her flaws, I’m not sure why the author chose not to include certain information that I find important about her. Regarding Chanel’s activities during World War II, the author makes the statement “During WWII and the years leading up to the war, she proved herself to have no loyalties except to her own profits, no sense of morality but what benefited herself.” Yet the author provides no particulars. The most telling omissions are Chanel’s affair with a high ranking German officer, passing information obtained during “business trips” to Spain on to Nazi officials, and her attempt to reclaim a portion of her business by using the Nazi’s new laws which forced Jews to give up their businesses.
So, while not my favorite book to come out of this series, all in all, this was a good cozy mystery that made for light and mildly entertaining reading.
Source: NetGalley and Kensington Books
January 25, 2023
Fans of the Lady and Lady's Maid Mystery series by Alyssa Maxwell are going to LOVE A Fashionable Fatality !!
A Fashionable Fatality is the eighth book in this series and if you've read the previous seven, this one will become your favorite. In A Fashionable Fatality main characters Phoebe and her maid Eva will be leaving Foxwood Hall where they live and traveling to Allerton Place. Allerton Place is the home of Phoebe's older sister, Julia, and her new husband Theo, Marquess of Allerton.
Phoebe is very excited to be visiting her sister but soon learns that there are others visiting as well. Mademoiselle Gabrielle Chanel, "Coco" to friends is a clothing designer and she is there with her current boyfriend but she invites members of her group to come so that she can use the gardens and surrounding areas to use as photoshoots. Included in the group are two mannequins which in today's time are called models. And to Phoebe's surprise Julia has invited her beau, Owen Seabright.
Phoebe is caught up in the dynamics of the whole modeling aspect and cannot get enough of the group of people...some she likes, others not so much. And Eva is roped into working with the group to help prepare the clothing for the models.
Unfortunately one night eveyone is woken up thinking there is a fire which turns out to be just smoke and it was confined in one room....Suzette's, one of the models and she dies from smoke inhalation. Of course Phoebe and Eva do not believe it was an accident and insist that the chimney and fireplace be inspected. After inspection it is deemed that it was highly unlikely to have been a faulty part but the situation is still declared an accident.
This "accident" puts the two on high alert and they decide to find out everything they can about the people staying uninvited at Allerton Place. They also soon learn that Julia will have no talk of murder and wrongdoings so they have to act fast and quietly.
Readers will be drawn into this story immediately !! You cannot help but love that fact that the story takes readers to somewhere outside of Foxwood Hall allowing you to get to know Julia and her life better. Seeing as in previous books Julia has been a handful and unhappy, to see her now more relaxed, happy and in love is such a treat !!
And I will tell you to forget about trying to solve the murder before Phoebe and Eva do, it is pointless. Maxwell provides a crafty group of individuals and any one of them could be capable of murder and the reasons why will be astonishing. Best advice I can give you is to open the book, sit back and get comfortable because you will be there for a while. You will not want to stop reading. And if you haven't read the previous books in this series, I highly recommend doing so......this is a series and group of people you will want to escape with !!!!
A Fashionable Fatality is the eighth book in this series and if you've read the previous seven, this one will become your favorite. In A Fashionable Fatality main characters Phoebe and her maid Eva will be leaving Foxwood Hall where they live and traveling to Allerton Place. Allerton Place is the home of Phoebe's older sister, Julia, and her new husband Theo, Marquess of Allerton.
Phoebe is very excited to be visiting her sister but soon learns that there are others visiting as well. Mademoiselle Gabrielle Chanel, "Coco" to friends is a clothing designer and she is there with her current boyfriend but she invites members of her group to come so that she can use the gardens and surrounding areas to use as photoshoots. Included in the group are two mannequins which in today's time are called models. And to Phoebe's surprise Julia has invited her beau, Owen Seabright.
Phoebe is caught up in the dynamics of the whole modeling aspect and cannot get enough of the group of people...some she likes, others not so much. And Eva is roped into working with the group to help prepare the clothing for the models.
Unfortunately one night eveyone is woken up thinking there is a fire which turns out to be just smoke and it was confined in one room....Suzette's, one of the models and she dies from smoke inhalation. Of course Phoebe and Eva do not believe it was an accident and insist that the chimney and fireplace be inspected. After inspection it is deemed that it was highly unlikely to have been a faulty part but the situation is still declared an accident.
This "accident" puts the two on high alert and they decide to find out everything they can about the people staying uninvited at Allerton Place. They also soon learn that Julia will have no talk of murder and wrongdoings so they have to act fast and quietly.
Readers will be drawn into this story immediately !! You cannot help but love that fact that the story takes readers to somewhere outside of Foxwood Hall allowing you to get to know Julia and her life better. Seeing as in previous books Julia has been a handful and unhappy, to see her now more relaxed, happy and in love is such a treat !!
And I will tell you to forget about trying to solve the murder before Phoebe and Eva do, it is pointless. Maxwell provides a crafty group of individuals and any one of them could be capable of murder and the reasons why will be astonishing. Best advice I can give you is to open the book, sit back and get comfortable because you will be there for a while. You will not want to stop reading. And if you haven't read the previous books in this series, I highly recommend doing so......this is a series and group of people you will want to escape with !!!!
September 28, 2023
Setting the Scene: "Amid the aftermath of the Great War and its hardships, it's no wonder that many wish to rediscover life's pleasures—parties, fashion, dancing. Still, Lady Phoebe and Eva are disconcerted when a small gathering at the home of Phoebe's sister, Julia, becomes a far larger and more glamorous affair . . .
Julia has invited her favorite French fashion designer, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, and Coco's current beau, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco has brought an entourage of her own, including two models, and intends to use the gardens as a photographic setting for her latest creations.
Madame Chanel is as outspoken as she is talented, offering a scathing critique of Phoebe's fashion sense. There is tense competition between the models as well. When one of the guests is found dead of smoke inhalation, it appears to be a tragic accident. But was a footman really to blame for mistakenly closing the fireplace flue, or is there a more sinister explanation?
Phoebe is determined to find out, despite the protestations of her sweetheart, Owen Seabright. Both above and below stairs, Phoebe and Eva uncover myriad motives—career ambition, romantic rivalries, and even deeper betrayals."
What I Thought: This most recent release in Alyssa Maxwell's Lady and Lady's Maid series does not disappoint. Ms. Maxwell continues to demonstrate her ability to capture both the glamour and reality of the bygone era of 1920s England. Her insight, an intriguing mixture of fiction and fact, into the early days of fashion icon Coco Chanel proves quite interesting. In addition to the historical insights, I enjoyed the character and series development this book brings to the series. I am not sure that Lady Julia will ever be one of my favorites, but the last two books have given hope; and the development in the roles of both Theo and Owen is noteworthy here. I hope to see a lot more of both gentlemen, along with Miles, in future books. This book closes with an amusing dilemma unique to its historical setting that I do hope is picked up in the next outing, but either way, it left me chuckling. Now comes the hard part, especially after binge reading the first 8 books, and that is the wait for the next one.
I must say that none of the narrators in this series have impressed me. This narrator tends to age the female characters and use too many high pitched, nasally voices. It is a credit to Ms. Maxwell's writing that an often annoying narration does not dampen my enjoyment of this series in audiobook format.
Julia has invited her favorite French fashion designer, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, and Coco's current beau, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco has brought an entourage of her own, including two models, and intends to use the gardens as a photographic setting for her latest creations.
Madame Chanel is as outspoken as she is talented, offering a scathing critique of Phoebe's fashion sense. There is tense competition between the models as well. When one of the guests is found dead of smoke inhalation, it appears to be a tragic accident. But was a footman really to blame for mistakenly closing the fireplace flue, or is there a more sinister explanation?
Phoebe is determined to find out, despite the protestations of her sweetheart, Owen Seabright. Both above and below stairs, Phoebe and Eva uncover myriad motives—career ambition, romantic rivalries, and even deeper betrayals."
What I Thought: This most recent release in Alyssa Maxwell's Lady and Lady's Maid series does not disappoint. Ms. Maxwell continues to demonstrate her ability to capture both the glamour and reality of the bygone era of 1920s England. Her insight, an intriguing mixture of fiction and fact, into the early days of fashion icon Coco Chanel proves quite interesting. In addition to the historical insights, I enjoyed the character and series development this book brings to the series. I am not sure that Lady Julia will ever be one of my favorites, but the last two books have given hope; and the development in the roles of both Theo and Owen is noteworthy here. I hope to see a lot more of both gentlemen, along with Miles, in future books. This book closes with an amusing dilemma unique to its historical setting that I do hope is picked up in the next outing, but either way, it left me chuckling. Now comes the hard part, especially after binge reading the first 8 books, and that is the wait for the next one.
I must say that none of the narrators in this series have impressed me. This narrator tends to age the female characters and use too many high pitched, nasally voices. It is a credit to Ms. Maxwell's writing that an often annoying narration does not dampen my enjoyment of this series in audiobook format.
January 15, 2023
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Alyssa Maxwell for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Fashionable Fatality coming out January 24, 2023. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Great War has just ended and people are trying to rediscover life’s joys—parties, fashion and dancing. Lady Phoebe and Eva are disconcerted when an intimate gathering at the home of Phoebe’s sister, Julia, becomes a much larger and more glamorous affair . . . Julia invited French fashion designer, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, and Coco’s current beau, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco brings a party of her own, including two models. She intends to use the luscious gardens as a photographic setting for her latest designs. Madame Chanel is as forthright and beautiful as she is talented, offering a scathing critique of Phoebe’s fashion sense. There is tense competition between the models. During the festivities, a guest is found dead of smoke inhalation. It seems to be a tragic accident. Is a footman to blame for mistakenly closing the fireplace flue, or is there a more deadly explanation? Phoebe is determined to solve the case, despite the protests of her beau, Owen Seabright. Phoebe and her maid Eva uncover motives—career goals, romantic rivalries, and even more betrayals. On the surface there is beauty and fashion, but underneath there are ugly secrets in the world of Maison Chanel, ones that a killer will risk anything to keep hidden.
I love Alyssa Maxwell’s books! She always has fun historical mysteries. I love the idea of the lady and maid solving cases together. It reminds me Agatha Christie books. I love that it featured a real person Coco Chanel as well. It added a bit of flair to the story. This is definitely a fun series. I thought the ending was lovely and I hope there’s more books.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys glamorous, cozy historical murder mysteries!
The Great War has just ended and people are trying to rediscover life’s joys—parties, fashion and dancing. Lady Phoebe and Eva are disconcerted when an intimate gathering at the home of Phoebe’s sister, Julia, becomes a much larger and more glamorous affair . . . Julia invited French fashion designer, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, and Coco’s current beau, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco brings a party of her own, including two models. She intends to use the luscious gardens as a photographic setting for her latest designs. Madame Chanel is as forthright and beautiful as she is talented, offering a scathing critique of Phoebe’s fashion sense. There is tense competition between the models. During the festivities, a guest is found dead of smoke inhalation. It seems to be a tragic accident. Is a footman to blame for mistakenly closing the fireplace flue, or is there a more deadly explanation? Phoebe is determined to solve the case, despite the protests of her beau, Owen Seabright. Phoebe and her maid Eva uncover motives—career goals, romantic rivalries, and even more betrayals. On the surface there is beauty and fashion, but underneath there are ugly secrets in the world of Maison Chanel, ones that a killer will risk anything to keep hidden.
I love Alyssa Maxwell’s books! She always has fun historical mysteries. I love the idea of the lady and maid solving cases together. It reminds me Agatha Christie books. I love that it featured a real person Coco Chanel as well. It added a bit of flair to the story. This is definitely a fun series. I thought the ending was lovely and I hope there’s more books.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys glamorous, cozy historical murder mysteries!
January 24, 2023
This is a good mystery, with a caveat. The storyline is interesting, partly trope, partly an attack on a famous person, whom I buy things from, and obviously there are things I don't know. Lady Phoebe and her maid Eva on spending a long weekend at her sister Lady Julia's Country Home, present are Lady Julia's husband, heir to a Marquesite, Theo, Lady Phoebe's boyfriend, Owen, an Earl. Now comes the famous person, it's Coco Chanel, who does not come out smelling like No. 5, she is not the murderer, but one of her small group of employees is the victim, which cast suspicion on everyone there. I have another series where Coco Chanel is part of the story, and in those books, she's kind, and loving, so, this extremely rude woman depicted in this story have left me reeling, obviously, I must buy a book about the woman who forged a House of Couture that is worth 15 Billion dollars today, a woman whose poverty stricken father placed her at a young age into a Catholic orphanage where she was taught to sew, who survived the German Occupation during two world wars. As I said, my review is skewed by the animosity towards Coco, and the outright feminists attitude that Lady Phoebe has toward her boyfriend, she is a typical modern heroine, she wants to be loved, but heaven forbid if he says anything to her about her safety! Yet when someone comes after her with a gun, isn't she relieved when this handsome young man shows up? I tire of this obnoxious attitude that all heroines must have toward the men in their lives, so, instead of enjoying this book like I should have, I find it lacking for these two reasons, and the third is, I knew why the murder occurred before it was revealed. I do recommend it, if knowing these things, and you still want to read a clean Historical Mystery.
Thank you #Netgalley #KensingtonBooks
carolintallahassee
Thank you #Netgalley #KensingtonBooks
carolintallahassee
October 22, 2022
Lady Phoebe and Eva her lady's maid are at it again. Only this time Phoebe isn't hosting guided tours for historical societies. Instead her sister Julia invites Phoebe to a house party, also attending are Coco Chanel, the fashion designer and her current flame, Lord Chesterhaven., Coco surprises her hosts by inviting an entire entourage of photographer, models, make up artists, wardrobe overseers and more, and it is not a pleasant surprise. The tension between the two models is immediately noticed by all and after one has an accident falling off a horse, the other ends up dead. Everyone seems to be a suspect because they all seem to have had a beef of one sort or the other with the deceased. Who is to blame or is it as Julia keeps insisting, the resulting accidental death caused by a negligent servant?
Eva and Phoebe join forces and begin their usual snooping around, asking touchy questions, putting themselves in the line of fire.
Picking up this book and reading about Phoebe and Eva is like visiting old friends, it is a comfortable, well paced mystery that has a few twists to keep you guessing. One thing I am don't really know how I feel about is how Coco Chanel is portrayed. Because if she was really like she is in this book then ugh, not a nice person at all and one I would not like to meet. I do recommend this book to all historical mystery readers, it lives up to expectations. 5 Stars for sure. Publishes in January of 2023, start the new year off right and grab a copy.
thank you to Kensington Books and Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
e
Eva and Phoebe join forces and begin their usual snooping around, asking touchy questions, putting themselves in the line of fire.
Picking up this book and reading about Phoebe and Eva is like visiting old friends, it is a comfortable, well paced mystery that has a few twists to keep you guessing. One thing I am don't really know how I feel about is how Coco Chanel is portrayed. Because if she was really like she is in this book then ugh, not a nice person at all and one I would not like to meet. I do recommend this book to all historical mystery readers, it lives up to expectations. 5 Stars for sure. Publishes in January of 2023, start the new year off right and grab a copy.
thank you to Kensington Books and Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
e
January 3, 2023
Although this is the 8th book in the series, it is the first one that I have read. However, I had no trouble figuring out the characters or following the plot. Lady Phoebe and her lady's maid Eva are invited to visit her sister Julia and her husband Lord Theo. Lady Phoebe is pleased to find her friend Lord Owen also at the party as well as another Lord, Lord Chesterton. Also visiting is Coco Chanel from whom Julia has purchased clothing. Chanel has also brought her maid and team, including photographer, two models, makeup artist, and clothing specialists, intending to do photo shoots in the gardens. Eva is asked to help with dressing the models. The longtime model Suzette is very antagonistic to the newer, younger woman, India. On a horseback ride, Suzette manages to spook India's horse and make him fall going over the jump. The photographer seems to like all the young women, and Chanel is determined to get pictures of Julia and Phoebe in spite of being told they had to remain private.
Phoebe is wakened by Owen saying there is a fire, and they all go out. The fire folks go into the house and come out carrying Suzette who is dead from smoke inhalation. The flue was closed in her fireplace, and the building was not on fire. Lady Julia blames the footman who made the fire and he is demoted, but Phoebe and Eva are sure it wasn't an accident. They work to find out who killed Suzette, as well as what is going on with Chanel's employees. However, those secrets make it very dangerous for Phoebe. Chanel is not the perfect house guest!
The plot is clever, and the characters are interesting.
Phoebe is wakened by Owen saying there is a fire, and they all go out. The fire folks go into the house and come out carrying Suzette who is dead from smoke inhalation. The flue was closed in her fireplace, and the building was not on fire. Lady Julia blames the footman who made the fire and he is demoted, but Phoebe and Eva are sure it wasn't an accident. They work to find out who killed Suzette, as well as what is going on with Chanel's employees. However, those secrets make it very dangerous for Phoebe. Chanel is not the perfect house guest!
The plot is clever, and the characters are interesting.
January 29, 2023
The Cotswolds - 1921
Phoebe Renshaw is visiting her sister, Julia, the Marchioness of Allerton, her husband, Theo, and their baby son. As always, Phoebe has her faithful lady’s maid, Eva, with her. Phoebe and Julia are the granddaughters of the Earl and Countess of Wroxley and Phoebe’s home is the Foxwood Hall estate. Phoebe’s longtime beau, Owen, is also visiting. It is nice for them to have time together to catch up.
They find that Julia is hosting the well-known French modiste, Mademoiselle Gabrielle Chanel, who goes by Coco. She is there along with her beau Ralph Hewitt-Davies, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco is preparing for an upcoming fashion show and is having a photographer take photos of her two models, India Vale and Suzette Villiers on Julia’s beautiful estate. The two young models do not care for one another so there is animosity between them.
When the group goes on a horse ride, India is injured when she and Suzette both try to jump a hedge. Later, Suzette is found dead in her room from what appears to be smoke inhalation from a closed flue on her fireplace. Everyone feels it is an accident but the police have arrived to investigate. Of course, Phoebe and Eva cannot keep away from the puzzle and conduct their own investigation.
As always, this author keeps the reader guessing right up to the end as she makes us wonder who did what as we try to solve the mystery ourselves. Phoebe and Eva are great characters, but I can certainly say that I don’t like Julia as too often she acts like a shrew. Enjoy the mystery.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Phoebe Renshaw is visiting her sister, Julia, the Marchioness of Allerton, her husband, Theo, and their baby son. As always, Phoebe has her faithful lady’s maid, Eva, with her. Phoebe and Julia are the granddaughters of the Earl and Countess of Wroxley and Phoebe’s home is the Foxwood Hall estate. Phoebe’s longtime beau, Owen, is also visiting. It is nice for them to have time together to catch up.
They find that Julia is hosting the well-known French modiste, Mademoiselle Gabrielle Chanel, who goes by Coco. She is there along with her beau Ralph Hewitt-Davies, the Earl of Chesterhaven. Coco is preparing for an upcoming fashion show and is having a photographer take photos of her two models, India Vale and Suzette Villiers on Julia’s beautiful estate. The two young models do not care for one another so there is animosity between them.
When the group goes on a horse ride, India is injured when she and Suzette both try to jump a hedge. Later, Suzette is found dead in her room from what appears to be smoke inhalation from a closed flue on her fireplace. Everyone feels it is an accident but the police have arrived to investigate. Of course, Phoebe and Eva cannot keep away from the puzzle and conduct their own investigation.
As always, this author keeps the reader guessing right up to the end as she makes us wonder who did what as we try to solve the mystery ourselves. Phoebe and Eva are great characters, but I can certainly say that I don’t like Julia as too often she acts like a shrew. Enjoy the mystery.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 24, 2023
Historical mysteries are my favorite sub genre and the mysteries written by Alyssa Maxwell are some of the best out there. In this series it's 1921 and the Lady is Lady Phoebe and her lady's maid is Eva. Together they make an exceptional investigative team. They are now faced with a death at a country weekend at the home of her sister, Julia and her husband. Phoebe really shouldn't have agreed to attend as she and her sister have some friction between them....as sisters do. It turns out that it's not just her sister who is causing friction for Phoebe. Friction comes on a grand scale from one of the guests, the famous Coco Chanel. She has taken it upon herself to bring along some extra guests so she can use the grounds as a background for her gorgeous creations. As the weekend progresses a killer strikes, taking the life of one of Coco's models.
While Phoebe investigates above stairs, Eva does the same downstairs. Between them the killer won't be at large for long. Told from two points of view - Phoebe and Eva - the reader gets to see everything and follows the clues to the great reveal. I usually stay away from multiple POV's as they can be choppy and jarring, taking me out of the story. In the hands of Alyssa Maxwell it works perfectly. Added to a well constructed puzzle to solve, interesting settings and well-fleshed out characters, this is a must read series for me. Now I want to seek out a biography of Coco Chanel to learn more about her.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
While Phoebe investigates above stairs, Eva does the same downstairs. Between them the killer won't be at large for long. Told from two points of view - Phoebe and Eva - the reader gets to see everything and follows the clues to the great reveal. I usually stay away from multiple POV's as they can be choppy and jarring, taking me out of the story. In the hands of Alyssa Maxwell it works perfectly. Added to a well constructed puzzle to solve, interesting settings and well-fleshed out characters, this is a must read series for me. Now I want to seek out a biography of Coco Chanel to learn more about her.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 16, 2023
Whether Alyssa Maxwell is writing an installment in her Gilded Newport Mysteries or her Lady and Lady’s Maid Mysteries, you can always depend that she is going to be true to the era, the dialogue and the moral dilemmas in which she casts her characters. She is a master of the genre and it is always a pleasure to be swept away in one of her beautifully descriptive and often hilarious murder mysteries.
I found it interesting that Maxwell took on the persona of Coco Chanel and while mildly tarnishing someone who deserved much harsher treatment her point came through. Revealed as a “self-absorbed shrew” who was capable of prevaricating anything and everything to achieve her purposes, she served as a competent foil for the purposes of this mystery.
It was heartening that Lady Phoebe’s maid Eva was given a louder and stronger voice in this installment. Always a steadying influence she is also shown to be a deep thinker and puzzle master. Not to minimize this well thought out and intricate murder mystery, due to Maxwell’s skillful depiction, I realized that I enjoyed the characters and their interactions as much as if not more than the plot. The Author’s Note was enlightening and while I brought substantial knowledge about Chanel the woman to this reading, I would have liked to have had the information in the Note before reading this book.
Thank you Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for this copy.
I found it interesting that Maxwell took on the persona of Coco Chanel and while mildly tarnishing someone who deserved much harsher treatment her point came through. Revealed as a “self-absorbed shrew” who was capable of prevaricating anything and everything to achieve her purposes, she served as a competent foil for the purposes of this mystery.
It was heartening that Lady Phoebe’s maid Eva was given a louder and stronger voice in this installment. Always a steadying influence she is also shown to be a deep thinker and puzzle master. Not to minimize this well thought out and intricate murder mystery, due to Maxwell’s skillful depiction, I realized that I enjoyed the characters and their interactions as much as if not more than the plot. The Author’s Note was enlightening and while I brought substantial knowledge about Chanel the woman to this reading, I would have liked to have had the information in the Note before reading this book.
Thank you Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for this copy.
November 10, 2022
I want to preface by saying that, before being selected by the author to receive an ARC of this book for a fair and honest review, I had not read any of the books in this series. (I have read her Gilded Newport Mysteries and loved that series.) As I prefer to read a series in order if I can, when I found out I'd been selected to receive the ARC, I pulled Murder Most Malicious out of my TBR pile and began reading. I was hooked! I read the first four books in a week, and quickly ordered a copy of book #5 (A Sinister Service), which I completed before starting this book. (I should note that each of the mysteries are solved by the end of each book, so you don't necessarily have to read them in order in you don't want or are unable to.)
Eight books into the series and Alyssa Maxwell has not lost her magic writing touch! I love the setting, which is 1921 in the Cotswolds. I love that a young Coco Chanel is one of the characters involved in this well-developed mystery. I love how the characters of Lady Phoebe, Eva, and many of the other series staples have grown and evolved and show dimension of character. I even enjoyed reading the Author's Note at the end of the book. All and all, I think this book has been really well done. Now I must go back and read books #6&7, while I impatiently await the release of book #9!
Eight books into the series and Alyssa Maxwell has not lost her magic writing touch! I love the setting, which is 1921 in the Cotswolds. I love that a young Coco Chanel is one of the characters involved in this well-developed mystery. I love how the characters of Lady Phoebe, Eva, and many of the other series staples have grown and evolved and show dimension of character. I even enjoyed reading the Author's Note at the end of the book. All and all, I think this book has been really well done. Now I must go back and read books #6&7, while I impatiently await the release of book #9!
November 4, 2022
A Fashionable Fatality
Lady Phoebe was invited to a house party at her sister, Julia, English country manor home. Julia had also invited the designer, Coco Chanel and her male companion, The Earl of Chesterhaven as well. However Julia did not realize that Chanel would come with an entourage and planned to photograph models wearing her latest creations in the manor’s gardens.
The house party was disrupted when one of the models died of smoke inhalation after the flue in her bedroom fireplace malfunctioned. One of the servants was accused of mishandling the flue after he set the fire but it was ruled an accident. Phoebe and her ladies maid, Eve, were convinced that the death was not an accident but a malicious act. They wanted to clear the footman who had lit the fire. So they started their own investigation among the staff and the servants. They wanted to know what really happened and who was responsible for the death.
This is the eight book in the Lady and Lady’s Maid Mystery series. They are set in England in the years after World War I that are sometimes called the Downtown Abbey era. I enjoyed the book and may read some of the other books in this series.
I received this ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Phoebe was invited to a house party at her sister, Julia, English country manor home. Julia had also invited the designer, Coco Chanel and her male companion, The Earl of Chesterhaven as well. However Julia did not realize that Chanel would come with an entourage and planned to photograph models wearing her latest creations in the manor’s gardens.
The house party was disrupted when one of the models died of smoke inhalation after the flue in her bedroom fireplace malfunctioned. One of the servants was accused of mishandling the flue after he set the fire but it was ruled an accident. Phoebe and her ladies maid, Eve, were convinced that the death was not an accident but a malicious act. They wanted to clear the footman who had lit the fire. So they started their own investigation among the staff and the servants. They wanted to know what really happened and who was responsible for the death.
This is the eight book in the Lady and Lady’s Maid Mystery series. They are set in England in the years after World War I that are sometimes called the Downtown Abbey era. I enjoyed the book and may read some of the other books in this series.
I received this ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2022
A Fashionable Fatality is the eighth mystery in the A Lady & Lady’s Maid Mystery series. When attending a house party at her sister’s, Phoebe Renshaw and her lady’s maid, Eva, find themselves pulled into a murder investigation again after one of Coco Chanel’s entourage turns up dead.
This is the first book in this series that I have read, but I have read many Alyssa Maxwell mysteries which have all been intriguing and this mystery was no different. Picture a Great Gatsby like party turned into a cozy Murder mystery. The characters are well formed and Luke able, the historical setting is detailed and easy to picture and the mystery is fun and intriguing. I also really enjoyed the fact that this mystery pulled Chanel into it, even though I am not a huge fashion buff, I found this really interesting. This was a great read and I am definitely going to be starting this series from the beginning. I don’t feel like I missed out on much, other than background information in the characters, starting at this place in the series. I found this to be an enjoyable read and would definitely recommend it to historical, cozy mystery fans!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
This is the first book in this series that I have read, but I have read many Alyssa Maxwell mysteries which have all been intriguing and this mystery was no different. Picture a Great Gatsby like party turned into a cozy Murder mystery. The characters are well formed and Luke able, the historical setting is detailed and easy to picture and the mystery is fun and intriguing. I also really enjoyed the fact that this mystery pulled Chanel into it, even though I am not a huge fashion buff, I found this really interesting. This was a great read and I am definitely going to be starting this series from the beginning. I don’t feel like I missed out on much, other than background information in the characters, starting at this place in the series. I found this to be an enjoyable read and would definitely recommend it to historical, cozy mystery fans!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
February 13, 2023
There's something about the author's writing that grabs me and keeps me engaged in the story.
I enjoy the relationship between Phoebe (the Lady) and Eva (the Maid) and how they work together to investigate and gather information.
Phoebe is invited to visit her sister Julia and her husband Theo. Things have been strained between the two of them since their father's death in the war, so she welcomes the opportunity She doesn't know that fashion designer Coco Chanel and her beau (the brother of a schoolmate of Theo's) are also visiting. Julia discovered Chanel's designs when she and Theo were in Paris earlier. Julia and Theo are surprised when Chanel invites her staff to do a camera shoot at their estate. There's quite a bit of drama and infighting amongst Chanel's staff, as well as between Chanel and her beau. And it all comes to a head when the main mannequin (model) is found dead. There are many possible suspects and Phoebe and Eva do their best to discover what really happened.
The historical aspect of the mystery adds a lot of interest as well. It is a very well written mystery.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley but the opinion expressed is my own.
I enjoy the relationship between Phoebe (the Lady) and Eva (the Maid) and how they work together to investigate and gather information.
Phoebe is invited to visit her sister Julia and her husband Theo. Things have been strained between the two of them since their father's death in the war, so she welcomes the opportunity She doesn't know that fashion designer Coco Chanel and her beau (the brother of a schoolmate of Theo's) are also visiting. Julia discovered Chanel's designs when she and Theo were in Paris earlier. Julia and Theo are surprised when Chanel invites her staff to do a camera shoot at their estate. There's quite a bit of drama and infighting amongst Chanel's staff, as well as between Chanel and her beau. And it all comes to a head when the main mannequin (model) is found dead. There are many possible suspects and Phoebe and Eva do their best to discover what really happened.
The historical aspect of the mystery adds a lot of interest as well. It is a very well written mystery.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley but the opinion expressed is my own.
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