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Lady Hardcastle Mysteries #9
An Act of Foul Play
November 1911. Lady Emily Hardcastle is celebrating her birthday by seeing a play at the Duke’s Theatre in Bristol with her maid and confidante, the inimitable Flo. Act One is a triumph. Then Act Two opens with a body on stage—a real one. One of the cast has been brutally murdered during the interval.
When other matters get in the way of Inspector Sunderland overseeing the case himself, he asks the ever-resourceful Lady H to keep a watchful eye on the suspects—and his police colleagues. Rustling up some cunning disguises of their own, she and Flo are soon in deep cover among the cast and crew, pulling back the curtain on some shocking secrets and rivalries…
The problem is, everyone seems to have a motive, and everyone seems to have an alibi…In this locked-room mystery in which nothing is as it seems, the amateur sleuths need to put on the performances of their lives if they’re to stand a chance of shining a spotlight on the truth…
When other matters get in the way of Inspector Sunderland overseeing the case himself, he asks the ever-resourceful Lady H to keep a watchful eye on the suspects—and his police colleagues. Rustling up some cunning disguises of their own, she and Flo are soon in deep cover among the cast and crew, pulling back the curtain on some shocking secrets and rivalries…
The problem is, everyone seems to have a motive, and everyone seems to have an alibi…In this locked-room mystery in which nothing is as it seems, the amateur sleuths need to put on the performances of their lives if they’re to stand a chance of shining a spotlight on the truth…
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
September 30, 2024
4.5 stars. reading vlog: https://youtu.be/yOpShJza85A
flo and lady hardcastle i'll love u forever
flo and lady hardcastle i'll love u forever
November 9, 2022
The ninth episode in this five star series and I loved every minute of it.
It is 1911 and Lady Emily Hardcastle is celebrating her birthday with a trip to the theatre. Of course, with her luck, someone dies on stage, and she and Flo are caught up again investigating a murder. There even two Florences in this story when her identical twin sister joins her for a visit, and this causes some fun as well as helping to solve a secondary crime.
As usual in this series there is plenty of humour, loads of lovable characters and a tricky mystery with the inevitable red herrings to keep readers on their toes. There are also a number of interesting historical facts dotted throughout, things like the price of shoes in 1911, and the service provided by Rolls Royce. All good fun and a really entertaining read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
It is 1911 and Lady Emily Hardcastle is celebrating her birthday with a trip to the theatre. Of course, with her luck, someone dies on stage, and she and Flo are caught up again investigating a murder. There even two Florences in this story when her identical twin sister joins her for a visit, and this causes some fun as well as helping to solve a secondary crime.
As usual in this series there is plenty of humour, loads of lovable characters and a tricky mystery with the inevitable red herrings to keep readers on their toes. There are also a number of interesting historical facts dotted throughout, things like the price of shoes in 1911, and the service provided by Rolls Royce. All good fun and a really entertaining read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 18, 2022
It was 1911 and Lady Emily Hardcastle was at the theatre with friends, celebrating her birthday. Her maid and friend, Flo Armstrong, was there also, and by the beginning of act two, they were involved in murder once again. As the curtain lifted for the start of act two, a body was on the stage - but it wasn't part of the play as the scream from a cast member indicated. With Inspector Sunderland part of Lady Hardcastle's group, he was soon on the stage and with an aside to Emily and Flo, he requested their help in keeping an eye on things...
Back home after the eventful evening, they were surprised by a visitor whom they hadn't expected. Gwenith, Flo's twin sister, had arrived for a visit, and it wasn't long before she was helping the sleuths in the investigation. There were plenty of suspects, and motives for them all - would they find the culprit before the cast and players moved on to their next destination?
An Act of Foul Play is the 9th in the Lady Hardcastle mysteries by T.E. Kinsey and once again I loved it. Fun, entertaining and clever, it was also great to meet Gwenith and see how close the sisters are. I'm looking forward to the next installment very much. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Back home after the eventful evening, they were surprised by a visitor whom they hadn't expected. Gwenith, Flo's twin sister, had arrived for a visit, and it wasn't long before she was helping the sleuths in the investigation. There were plenty of suspects, and motives for them all - would they find the culprit before the cast and players moved on to their next destination?
An Act of Foul Play is the 9th in the Lady Hardcastle mysteries by T.E. Kinsey and once again I loved it. Fun, entertaining and clever, it was also great to meet Gwenith and see how close the sisters are. I'm looking forward to the next installment very much. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2022
I’m always thrilled when author T.E. Kinsey returns with another fun and funny cozy featuring Emily, Lady Hardcastle, and her sassy maid and sidekick Florence Armstrong. I love the spin-off Dizzy Heights series, as well, but there’s nothing like the originals Emily and Flo!
In this ninth entry in the series, the indomitable duo are at a Bristol theater when the curtain opens on the second act only to reveal the leading man, dead with a knife in him. Yikes! Of course, the pair ending up investigating, and there are plenty of surprises along the way — including a revelation about Flo’s family that I won’t reveal. The motive for the murder is a bit off, but I loved the novel anyway.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK in exchange for an honest review.
In this ninth entry in the series, the indomitable duo are at a Bristol theater when the curtain opens on the second act only to reveal the leading man, dead with a knife in him. Yikes! Of course, the pair ending up investigating, and there are plenty of surprises along the way — including a revelation about Flo’s family that I won’t reveal. The motive for the murder is a bit off, but I loved the novel anyway.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK in exchange for an honest review.
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August 26, 2023I will refrain from rating this book, mostly because this is the first cozy mystery I've ever read, so I had very little idea of what to expect going into it. As a result, my review will probably be more helpful to other people who, like me, aren't familiar with the Lady Hardcastle series and are curious to know if it's the right choice for them.
I liked the period setting of the story. The two amateur sleuths of the story, Lady Hardcastle and her maid Florence Armstrong, live a very characteristic English life. A significant portion of the book was dedicated to their everyday activities unrelated to the murder mystery itself: dinners, afternoon teas, hanging out with friends, etc. It helped to set the "cozy" atmosphere, and if that's something you like, I think you'll enjoy the book quite thoroughly as that style is consistent from beginning to end.
For me, however, I was not expecting that in a murder mystery at all. It just feels too "normal" to me. I struggled with the fact that there was absolutely no tension in this story -- a murder happened, yet no one seemed troubled by it. No fear, surprise, or worry whatsoever. The main characters' only reaction to the murder(s) appears to be: oh, how interesting, let's poke our noses in it! In fact, they seem so unbothered by this that over half of the book is actually focused on their typical daily lives, instead of the murder-solving. I mean, I get it, these people are used to seeing murders, but I suppose this is where the concept of "cozy mystery" gets me. Does no one else find it strange that a murder can be treated in such a lighthearted and carefree way?
The solving part of the mystery also felt very amateur to me. Yes, I get it again, they are amateurs sleuths. But the investigation still seemed too easy even for that. Everyone was trusted to be telling the truth, and all the evidence was in plain sight. One just had to actually see it. Maybe this is also typical for cozy mystery... I just found it too convenient for my taste, and in a way, it makes the whole story seem very staged.
Once again, I admit that cozy mystery is new to me. Given my lack of familiarity with the genre, I'm not going to hold these letdowns against this particular book, though I do feel like the whole thing could've been more natural to read if it wasn't a murder. Something more mild, like a betrayal or loss of memory in a typical domestic suspense, would probably go better with a simple, laid-back style like this.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the period setting of the story. The two amateur sleuths of the story, Lady Hardcastle and her maid Florence Armstrong, live a very characteristic English life. A significant portion of the book was dedicated to their everyday activities unrelated to the murder mystery itself: dinners, afternoon teas, hanging out with friends, etc. It helped to set the "cozy" atmosphere, and if that's something you like, I think you'll enjoy the book quite thoroughly as that style is consistent from beginning to end.
For me, however, I was not expecting that in a murder mystery at all. It just feels too "normal" to me. I struggled with the fact that there was absolutely no tension in this story -- a murder happened, yet no one seemed troubled by it. No fear, surprise, or worry whatsoever. The main characters' only reaction to the murder(s) appears to be: oh, how interesting, let's poke our noses in it! In fact, they seem so unbothered by this that over half of the book is actually focused on their typical daily lives, instead of the murder-solving. I mean, I get it, these people are used to seeing murders, but I suppose this is where the concept of "cozy mystery" gets me. Does no one else find it strange that a murder can be treated in such a lighthearted and carefree way?
The solving part of the mystery also felt very amateur to me. Yes, I get it again, they are amateurs sleuths. But the investigation still seemed too easy even for that. Everyone was trusted to be telling the truth, and all the evidence was in plain sight. One just had to actually see it. Maybe this is also typical for cozy mystery... I just found it too convenient for my taste, and in a way, it makes the whole story seem very staged.
Once again, I admit that cozy mystery is new to me. Given my lack of familiarity with the genre, I'm not going to hold these letdowns against this particular book, though I do feel like the whole thing could've been more natural to read if it wasn't a murder. Something more mild, like a betrayal or loss of memory in a typical domestic suspense, would probably go better with a simple, laid-back style like this.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2022
Love love love this series. It's a comforting/historical/cosy-fest!
Yes it's a bit silly and it's a feel-good funny, villag-ey (this is defo a word) mystery but I have to give it 5 stars because I LOVED IT.
More, more, more please! If you are looking for Christmassy goodness please consider Christmas at The Grange from this series...then read them all... haha! So good :)
Yes it's a bit silly and it's a feel-good funny, villag-ey (this is defo a word) mystery but I have to give it 5 stars because I LOVED IT.
More, more, more please! If you are looking for Christmassy goodness please consider Christmas at The Grange from this series...then read them all... haha! So good :)
August 27, 2023
3.5⭐
This was... not favorite.
As always, I adored Lady Hardcastle and Flo, but I didn't care about the mystery at all. I was also reading this book physically, and I have to say that the audiobooks are definitely the way to go.
I'm super happy to be caught up with the series, though. And just in time for the 10th book to come out.
This was... not favorite.
As always, I adored Lady Hardcastle and Flo, but I didn't care about the mystery at all. I was also reading this book physically, and I have to say that the audiobooks are definitely the way to go.
I'm super happy to be caught up with the series, though. And just in time for the 10th book to come out.
December 21, 2022
Once again T. E. Kinsey presents a lovely book with the couple Lady Emily Hardcastle and her maid/companion Florence Armstrong. This time the murder happens at a theatre in Bristol and the inquiries are for too long a time conducted by an incompetent detective till Emily, Flo and her twin sister Gwen take over. We meet the characters at the theatre and a new friend of Lady Hardcastle.
I enjoy these mysteries, the different characters, the banter between the two lady detectives, English life and the surrounding people in town. Of course the mystery is in the background, as usual in cosy mysteries, but the rest of the story is enjoyable. I thought the fun was sometimes spilling over to excessive quirkiness, and I would also have liked more clues to the mystery. All in all a nice read again.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoy these mysteries, the different characters, the banter between the two lady detectives, English life and the surrounding people in town. Of course the mystery is in the background, as usual in cosy mysteries, but the rest of the story is enjoyable. I thought the fun was sometimes spilling over to excessive quirkiness, and I would also have liked more clues to the mystery. All in all a nice read again.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc ebook in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2023
I really hope this series will continue. I really like these books!!!
December 17, 2022
I keep wanting to complain about something in here, but every time I do, I realize that I'm being ridiculous. Not all mysteries are going to work in specific ways, and sometimes the obvious IS the obvious even if we don't find out why until later in the book. Other times the answer comes in at the beginning and we forget because of all the new information. There isn't one "right" way to write a mystery EXCEPT... to keep the reader engaged.
Well, Kinsey did that again! I love Lady Hardcastle, Flo, and Gwen (or is it Gwyn? For Welsh, it feels like it should be!).
One of the best bits in here was how Flo's sister showed that sometimes Flow gets so caught up in "doing good things" that she neglects important people in her life. Ouch. Got that message loud and clear. And without feeling preached at, too.
Well, Kinsey did that again! I love Lady Hardcastle, Flo, and Gwen (or is it Gwyn? For Welsh, it feels like it should be!).
One of the best bits in here was how Flo's sister showed that sometimes Flow gets so caught up in "doing good things" that she neglects important people in her life. Ouch. Got that message loud and clear. And without feeling preached at, too.
June 3, 2024
It took us this long before we got to meet Gwen? Ugh I need her in all the stories now!
August 16, 2023
This is such an enjoyable "cozy crime" series. Set in the early 1900s, the characters are amusing, the crimes interesting and sleuthing good fun. Returning to these books is like meeting up with old friends who always bring a smile to your face. While I think this is not the strongest of the series so far, it was still an enjoyable read and Kinsey sets the scene and the times both well and with authenticity.
November 13, 2022
Lady Hardcastle and Florence Armstrong, along with some friends, attend a play for Lady Hardcastle's birthday. When the curtains rise for act two of the play one of the lead actors is lying dead on the stage. Inspector Sunderland is busy with another matter and the detective assigned to the case is ready to arrest the first person that comes to mind, so Sunderland asks our heroines to do the investigating. Aaand they decide to do it using fake identities. Also, Flo's twin sister stays with them for the course of the book do more shenanigans ensue.
One of my favorites in the series! There was so much humor in this one, I feel like more than usual. Lady Hardcastle and Flo have to infiltrate a group of actors and the theater to get to the bottom of things and we get to see all the interactions of the group behind the stage. Oh, and we get to see Flo in action as there is a fight scene at some point. If you haven't read the series yet I highly recommend, it is so much fun.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favorites in the series! There was so much humor in this one, I feel like more than usual. Lady Hardcastle and Flo have to infiltrate a group of actors and the theater to get to the bottom of things and we get to see all the interactions of the group behind the stage. Oh, and we get to see Flo in action as there is a fight scene at some point. If you haven't read the series yet I highly recommend, it is so much fun.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2022
An excellent book! Sad I have no more to read in the series.
November 7, 2022
I recieved an e-ARC from NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.
4.5 stars
While out for a night on the town in Bristol, Lady Hardcastle's birthday celebration at the theater is interrupted by a murder! Inspector Sunderland suspects foul play from one of the theater types but no one is talking to the police. The Inspector, however, is not the one assigned to the case and he fears the inspector on duty will muck up the investigation by arresting the most convenient person. Inspector Sunderland asks Emily and Flo to have a look around and see what they can find out. Pretending to be suffragette theater owner wannabes, Emily and Flo have a great time visiting with the actors and learning about life in the theater. When one of the actresses is arrested, confirming Sunderland's fears, Emily and Flo are convinced she's innocent. Yet, one of the others must be guilty but which one and how to prove it? Flo is also quite busy with a visit from her twin sister Gwen. The twins have a grand time getting up to old tricks and Gwen is eager to assist with the case. Meanwhile, back in Littleton Cottrell, Joe, the barman, is concerned because some bottles keep going missing from his cellar and he wants the perpetrator caught. Daisy asks Flo to ask Emily if they can help. The sleuths readily agree and even Gwen gets in on the act. Certainly these thefts can't be related to some minor thefts at the theater in Bristol or even the murder but it will give the friends something to do while they puzzle out the murder. Can they catch the killer before the curtain goes down on the show and everyone moves on?
This story is back on track from the previous meandering episode. It's more succinct with fewer supects. However, I missed the three interconnected mysteries from the early books and some of the intrigue of learning Lady Hardcastle's backstory. They give a tantalizing hint about something that happened off page and I hope they relate the whole story soon. This story mainly involves the theater and tourism in Bristol so if you're not into the theater, this one might seem a little boring. I happen to love the theater but some of the details were a little boring for someone who has read other mysteries set in the theater but it was super well researched. I especially liked the details about Bristol and had to stop and look up a picture of the Christmas Steps. I also discovered Lady Bickie's home is an apartment hotel now and most everything the sleuths see is still there.
The mystery is super difficult to figure out. It sounds like it would be easy. There are several actors and a couple of motives. The final clue that led Emily to figure things out also clued me in but even then I wasn't 100% sure. It could have been any of them, aside from Rosie who was wrongfully arrested. Having twin sleuths really changes the pattern of the mystery and I really liked it. I apprecited the sympathy towards mental illness in one character but suspect that another character is also mentally unwell for similar reasons and that went overlooked. I was surprised though by the compassion for the first person given the time period, just before WWI.
As always, the characters are a delight! Old and new characters shine on the page. I missed the Farley-Strouds who are once again absent but other than that, the regulars are all here. We even meet Inspector Sunderland's wife for the first time. (Emily and Flo have met her off page previously). The banter between Emily and Flo never gets old. I adore their friendship and how comfortable they are with each other after all these years. Emily acts like the dotty middle-aged widow but Flo begins to suspect it's actually an act - or is it? She's not sure but she's fond of Emily either way and looks after the older woman like her daughter. Apparently it's Flo who instigates the banter because she does it with her sister too! Gwen is a lot of fun. Her personality is more lively than her sister's. She's married and rising to middle class which leaves her bored and lonely while her military husband is away. Even though the twins haven't seen each other in years, they've written and are still close. They seem to pick up right where they left off as children with good natured teasing and double trouble! Gwen made a great addition to the sleuthing team.
Inspector Sunderland is not on the case but he pops in to help smooth the way for the ladies and listen to their observations, in case he is put on the case after the other guy mucks it up. His wife seems very nice and accepting of his job taking him away from her at all hours. Dinah Caudle is eager for a news story but is also capable of being a friend when needs be. She's not super patient but the ladies promise her a story when it is over so she accepts that.
New characters include Lady Hardcastle and Flo's new friend, Lady Bickie. She's a good and loyal friend but can't hold her liquor and can't lie convincingly. She nearly ruins the investigation. Her husband, Sir Benjamin is a dear and has a good sense of humor. They seem like a nice couple.
At the theater, we meet a lot of new people. Paul Singleton, the man who was stabbed and left on stage, was really not a very nice person. He was a ladies' man so his character really depends on who you ask. He was a rogue and a charmer but also a bit slimy. Still, he didn't do anything that would get him killed - unless someone is lying. Lady Bickie's old school friend Helena Bartlett has a brother, Hugh, who is a playwright. He writes the plays for the acting troupe- wonderfully funny comedies that bring the house down. He approached Lady Bickie without introduction which makes me suspicious. She claims she sees a family resemblance but does she really? Why has no one else ever really seen this playwright? He comes across as shy and reclusive, dedicated to his craft but what if he's hiding something? He's my chief suspect for murder. His alibi is quite shocking but not entirely susprising. I kind of suspected something of the sort early on. Yet his alibi is not airtight and he could still be the murderer. Edwin Adlam, the theater manager, is eager to sell tickets. He seems friendly but a little smarmy at the same time. Could he have been so ghastly as to commit murder to sell more tickets to a ghoulish public?
Harris Bridges, the leading man, is handsome and thinks he's clever. He's one of those pomopus bores who speaks for everyone and speaks to everyone. He thinks he knows it all. I hate that type. He's an experienced actor who has been with the company since the beginning so why would he wait until now to kill his fellow actor? He was once engaged to Rosalie Harding, a sweet young woman, who fell in love with Paul. That does give Bridges a motive for murder! Rosie seems sweet at first but apparently she has a temper and can hold her own. Did she kill Paul in anger? Paul's role is taken by his understudy, Patrick Cowlin, a man who has been waiting in the wings for a long time for an opportunity to take a leading role. That would certainly give him a motive for murder. He comes across as cold and standoffish at first but the ladies soon learn to appreciate his better qualities. It doesn't let him off the suspect list though.
Sarah Griffin is the oldest lady in the cast. She's more cynical and not so friendly than some of the others. She's accepting of the ladies poking around and happy to show them around. Should they take her into their confidence? What if she turns out to be the murderer? Does she have a motive? As it turns out, she does and a decent one, unless you believe what she says is true. Nancy Beaufort is the female understudy. She's young and insecure. I think she could easily have been swayed by someone else to murder Paul. Emrys Thornell, the director, could have had the opportunity for murder but what is his motive? A late twist with another murder, the murder of a stagehand, throws everyone's motives into question! Was Dickie Bickell in the wrong place at the wrong time? Did he witness the murder and had to be silenced?
Detective Dick Wyatt is on the case. He's lazy and incompetant and a wannabe ladies' man. He's an ineffective detective and if he manages to solve this case, it will be a miracle. I'm not even sure Lady Hardcastle and Florence can solve this one easily!
4.5 stars
While out for a night on the town in Bristol, Lady Hardcastle's birthday celebration at the theater is interrupted by a murder! Inspector Sunderland suspects foul play from one of the theater types but no one is talking to the police. The Inspector, however, is not the one assigned to the case and he fears the inspector on duty will muck up the investigation by arresting the most convenient person. Inspector Sunderland asks Emily and Flo to have a look around and see what they can find out. Pretending to be suffragette theater owner wannabes, Emily and Flo have a great time visiting with the actors and learning about life in the theater. When one of the actresses is arrested, confirming Sunderland's fears, Emily and Flo are convinced she's innocent. Yet, one of the others must be guilty but which one and how to prove it? Flo is also quite busy with a visit from her twin sister Gwen. The twins have a grand time getting up to old tricks and Gwen is eager to assist with the case. Meanwhile, back in Littleton Cottrell, Joe, the barman, is concerned because some bottles keep going missing from his cellar and he wants the perpetrator caught. Daisy asks Flo to ask Emily if they can help. The sleuths readily agree and even Gwen gets in on the act. Certainly these thefts can't be related to some minor thefts at the theater in Bristol or even the murder but it will give the friends something to do while they puzzle out the murder. Can they catch the killer before the curtain goes down on the show and everyone moves on?
This story is back on track from the previous meandering episode. It's more succinct with fewer supects. However, I missed the three interconnected mysteries from the early books and some of the intrigue of learning Lady Hardcastle's backstory. They give a tantalizing hint about something that happened off page and I hope they relate the whole story soon. This story mainly involves the theater and tourism in Bristol so if you're not into the theater, this one might seem a little boring. I happen to love the theater but some of the details were a little boring for someone who has read other mysteries set in the theater but it was super well researched. I especially liked the details about Bristol and had to stop and look up a picture of the Christmas Steps. I also discovered Lady Bickie's home is an apartment hotel now and most everything the sleuths see is still there.
The mystery is super difficult to figure out. It sounds like it would be easy. There are several actors and a couple of motives. The final clue that led Emily to figure things out also clued me in but even then I wasn't 100% sure. It could have been any of them, aside from Rosie who was wrongfully arrested. Having twin sleuths really changes the pattern of the mystery and I really liked it. I apprecited the sympathy towards mental illness in one character but suspect that another character is also mentally unwell for similar reasons and that went overlooked. I was surprised though by the compassion for the first person given the time period, just before WWI.
As always, the characters are a delight! Old and new characters shine on the page. I missed the Farley-Strouds who are once again absent but other than that, the regulars are all here. We even meet Inspector Sunderland's wife for the first time. (Emily and Flo have met her off page previously). The banter between Emily and Flo never gets old. I adore their friendship and how comfortable they are with each other after all these years. Emily acts like the dotty middle-aged widow but Flo begins to suspect it's actually an act - or is it? She's not sure but she's fond of Emily either way and looks after the older woman like her daughter. Apparently it's Flo who instigates the banter because she does it with her sister too! Gwen is a lot of fun. Her personality is more lively than her sister's. She's married and rising to middle class which leaves her bored and lonely while her military husband is away. Even though the twins haven't seen each other in years, they've written and are still close. They seem to pick up right where they left off as children with good natured teasing and double trouble! Gwen made a great addition to the sleuthing team.
Inspector Sunderland is not on the case but he pops in to help smooth the way for the ladies and listen to their observations, in case he is put on the case after the other guy mucks it up. His wife seems very nice and accepting of his job taking him away from her at all hours. Dinah Caudle is eager for a news story but is also capable of being a friend when needs be. She's not super patient but the ladies promise her a story when it is over so she accepts that.
New characters include Lady Hardcastle and Flo's new friend, Lady Bickie. She's a good and loyal friend but can't hold her liquor and can't lie convincingly. She nearly ruins the investigation. Her husband, Sir Benjamin is a dear and has a good sense of humor. They seem like a nice couple.
At the theater, we meet a lot of new people. Paul Singleton, the man who was stabbed and left on stage, was really not a very nice person. He was a ladies' man so his character really depends on who you ask. He was a rogue and a charmer but also a bit slimy. Still, he didn't do anything that would get him killed - unless someone is lying. Lady Bickie's old school friend Helena Bartlett has a brother, Hugh, who is a playwright. He writes the plays for the acting troupe- wonderfully funny comedies that bring the house down. He approached Lady Bickie without introduction which makes me suspicious. She claims she sees a family resemblance but does she really? Why has no one else ever really seen this playwright? He comes across as shy and reclusive, dedicated to his craft but what if he's hiding something? He's my chief suspect for murder. His alibi is quite shocking but not entirely susprising. I kind of suspected something of the sort early on. Yet his alibi is not airtight and he could still be the murderer. Edwin Adlam, the theater manager, is eager to sell tickets. He seems friendly but a little smarmy at the same time. Could he have been so ghastly as to commit murder to sell more tickets to a ghoulish public?
Harris Bridges, the leading man, is handsome and thinks he's clever. He's one of those pomopus bores who speaks for everyone and speaks to everyone. He thinks he knows it all. I hate that type. He's an experienced actor who has been with the company since the beginning so why would he wait until now to kill his fellow actor? He was once engaged to Rosalie Harding, a sweet young woman, who fell in love with Paul. That does give Bridges a motive for murder! Rosie seems sweet at first but apparently she has a temper and can hold her own. Did she kill Paul in anger? Paul's role is taken by his understudy, Patrick Cowlin, a man who has been waiting in the wings for a long time for an opportunity to take a leading role. That would certainly give him a motive for murder. He comes across as cold and standoffish at first but the ladies soon learn to appreciate his better qualities. It doesn't let him off the suspect list though.
Sarah Griffin is the oldest lady in the cast. She's more cynical and not so friendly than some of the others. She's accepting of the ladies poking around and happy to show them around. Should they take her into their confidence? What if she turns out to be the murderer? Does she have a motive? As it turns out, she does and a decent one, unless you believe what she says is true. Nancy Beaufort is the female understudy. She's young and insecure. I think she could easily have been swayed by someone else to murder Paul. Emrys Thornell, the director, could have had the opportunity for murder but what is his motive? A late twist with another murder, the murder of a stagehand, throws everyone's motives into question! Was Dickie Bickell in the wrong place at the wrong time? Did he witness the murder and had to be silenced?
Detective Dick Wyatt is on the case. He's lazy and incompetant and a wannabe ladies' man. He's an ineffective detective and if he manages to solve this case, it will be a miracle. I'm not even sure Lady Hardcastle and Florence can solve this one easily!
December 18, 2022
I had no idea that when I first got the first back in this series, back in 2017, that I would fall in love with as much as I have. Emily Hardcastle and Florence Armstrong [along with their "staff", Inspector Sunderland {WHO is both an excellent policeman AND a complete darling}, and the locals in town; they all add so much to each and every story] are two of the BEST main characters I have read in ages and each book has been a complete dream and I [not really, but it feels like it] hold my breath until the next one comes out. Joy of joys, I have had two to read this year and I could not be happier [well, I could, but I won't be greedy ;-) ].
This book finds Lady Hardcastle and Flo knee deep in the theatre and all its shenanigans [disguises, false identities galore etc etc], plus a side of murder. It is a wild romp and I NEVER, EVER, saw the killer coming. N E V E R. Usually I have a teeny clue, but this time I had nothing. I cannot even blame it on missing a whole day of reading. It was glorious [not knowing, not the whole day of not reading. That was awful and a story for another time]!! I loved it!! The addition of Flo's twin Gwen to their sleuthing was absolutely fabulous and I loved how they used the "twin trope" to full effect several times and how fun it was. There were moments were even I, the reader, wasn't sure just who was on the page [because the author COULD lead you to believe that one twin was in the story at that time, when it was the other one and you'd never know until that was revealed. HOW FUN!!! ;-) ] and that added to the story in fun and unusual ways.
I CANNOT WAIT for the next one. I mean, I hope there is more. Please let there be more? Please??? ;-)
If you are looking for a fun and unusual historical mystery series, I highly recommend this one; it is one of the best I currently read.
This book finds Lady Hardcastle and Flo knee deep in the theatre and all its shenanigans [disguises, false identities galore etc etc], plus a side of murder. It is a wild romp and I NEVER, EVER, saw the killer coming. N E V E R. Usually I have a teeny clue, but this time I had nothing. I cannot even blame it on missing a whole day of reading. It was glorious [not knowing, not the whole day of not reading. That was awful and a story for another time]!! I loved it!! The addition of Flo's twin Gwen to their sleuthing was absolutely fabulous and I loved how they used the "twin trope" to full effect several times and how fun it was. There were moments were even I, the reader, wasn't sure just who was on the page [because the author COULD lead you to believe that one twin was in the story at that time, when it was the other one and you'd never know until that was revealed. HOW FUN!!! ;-) ] and that added to the story in fun and unusual ways.
I CANNOT WAIT for the next one. I mean, I hope there is more. Please let there be more? Please??? ;-)
If you are looking for a fun and unusual historical mystery series, I highly recommend this one; it is one of the best I currently read.
October 12, 2025
When one reaches book 9 of a series it is pretty clear that one is either a big fan or a masochist. I am the former, I love the Lady Hardcastle and Flo Armstrong series by T.E. Kinsey.
I love it for the setting a quiet country village in 1911, the issues of the day as suffragettes, automobiles, airplanes and growing drums of war.
I love Lady Hardcastle and Flo's background in espionage and their particular skills.
I love the clever banter and repartee between the two of them.
I love the cast of secondary characters who emerge in the book.
An Act of Foul Play is basically a locked room mystery even though the murder victim is seen by everyone as he is on stage during a play.
As one might expect Hardcastle and Armstrong are as clever as ever and the culprit would never have been caught without them.
I love it for the setting a quiet country village in 1911, the issues of the day as suffragettes, automobiles, airplanes and growing drums of war.
I love Lady Hardcastle and Flo's background in espionage and their particular skills.
I love the clever banter and repartee between the two of them.
I love the cast of secondary characters who emerge in the book.
An Act of Foul Play is basically a locked room mystery even though the murder victim is seen by everyone as he is on stage during a play.
As one might expect Hardcastle and Armstrong are as clever as ever and the culprit would never have been caught without them.
October 15, 2022
I chose this book because I typically enjoy cosy mysteries, and the Lady Hardcastle mysteries had been recommended to me previously by some other readers.
I enjoyed this book. It was a light-hearted cosy mystery story, and I found the characters quirky and amusing, as well as a little bit eccentric, perhaps. It didn't take too long to read, and the storyline held my interest.
I think it would have been preferable to read the other books in the series prior to this one, because if I had, I might be more familiar with the characters, and of course, if you read a series, it makes sense to start at the beginning. Having said that, I would be interested in reading more of the books in this series.
I enjoyed this book. It was a light-hearted cosy mystery story, and I found the characters quirky and amusing, as well as a little bit eccentric, perhaps. It didn't take too long to read, and the storyline held my interest.
I think it would have been preferable to read the other books in the series prior to this one, because if I had, I might be more familiar with the characters, and of course, if you read a series, it makes sense to start at the beginning. Having said that, I would be interested in reading more of the books in this series.
August 27, 2023
Another Lady Hardcastle mystery. Love the series!
November 12, 2022
It's November 1911, and Lady Hardcastle is celebrating her birthday with friends at a theatre in Bristol. But before the curtain drops, she and her maid, Flo, will be pulled into solving yet another murder. The lead investigator makes more of a mess than the murderer. Can they set things ship shape and Bristol fashion before the killer kills again?
As always, it's the banter and love between Emily and Flo that make this such a fun read. The mystery maybe isn't quite as twisty as some of their cases, and the actors are peculiarly indifferent to, you know, having a murderer in their midst, but honestly, I read the books more for Emily and Flo's antics than for the actual mystery.
This time out, we get to meet Flo's twin sister, Gwen. Gwen helps out with not only this case, but a smaller case where someone is pilfering from the local pub.
While it's nice that their friend Inspector Sunderland trusts and respects them enough to ask for their help, in this book, it seemed more like he was asking them to do his work for him. It's true that Flo and Emily were investigating on their own, and would have, whether he wanted them to or not, but I thought better of the inspector before this.
As usual, our heroines solve the case and save the day. Ride along in their Rolls for a fun and funny historical cozy.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy from Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
As always, it's the banter and love between Emily and Flo that make this such a fun read. The mystery maybe isn't quite as twisty as some of their cases, and the actors are peculiarly indifferent to, you know, having a murderer in their midst, but honestly, I read the books more for Emily and Flo's antics than for the actual mystery.
This time out, we get to meet Flo's twin sister, Gwen. Gwen helps out with not only this case, but a smaller case where someone is pilfering from the local pub.
While it's nice that their friend Inspector Sunderland trusts and respects them enough to ask for their help, in this book, it seemed more like he was asking them to do his work for him. It's true that Flo and Emily were investigating on their own, and would have, whether he wanted them to or not, but I thought better of the inspector before this.
As usual, our heroines solve the case and save the day. Ride along in their Rolls for a fun and funny historical cozy.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy from Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
December 16, 2022
I suppose it's impossible to hit 9 homeruns in a row....
I still adore this author and this series, but I found this latest entry to be a little flat. The convoluted circumstances leading Emily and Flo to take on this latest mystery were a bit of a stretch. A couple leads or minor storylines were ignored. The ratatat banter felt a little stale. And I realize the limits of first person storytelling means that we can only get the perspective of the narrator, and sometimes another POV is necessary, but I thought the way the author chose to tell the story near the end of the book (with multiple POVs) was clumsy and jarring and really broke up the narrative for me. These books have never been presented (as far as I can remember) as Flo talking to the reader, or writing a journal to be read by someone later on, but all of a sudden, that's what happened because that was the only way to describe the events towards the end. It felt clunky, and a very rare miss.
Things I do appreciate in every book: the author is so skillful at reminding us who all the characters are, without making us feel like he is. It's a valuable tool in a mystery, since they usually have a pretty large cast of characters. Also, I love the author's note at the end of every book. I read every word of it and appreciate all the detail and research!
My thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC via netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I still adore this author and this series, but I found this latest entry to be a little flat. The convoluted circumstances leading Emily and Flo to take on this latest mystery were a bit of a stretch. A couple leads or minor storylines were ignored. The ratatat banter felt a little stale. And I realize the limits of first person storytelling means that we can only get the perspective of the narrator, and sometimes another POV is necessary, but I thought the way the author chose to tell the story near the end of the book (with multiple POVs) was clumsy and jarring and really broke up the narrative for me. These books have never been presented (as far as I can remember) as Flo talking to the reader, or writing a journal to be read by someone later on, but all of a sudden, that's what happened because that was the only way to describe the events towards the end. It felt clunky, and a very rare miss.
Things I do appreciate in every book: the author is so skillful at reminding us who all the characters are, without making us feel like he is. It's a valuable tool in a mystery, since they usually have a pretty large cast of characters. Also, I love the author's note at the end of every book. I read every word of it and appreciate all the detail and research!
My thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC via netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 28, 2024
More of the same in this one. The parts I liked best were the ones that took place in their home town. I love some of those townspeople. I didn’t like the main story as much as some, probably because the Inspector was less involved. Overall this was more of the same and an entertaining read.
January 19, 2023
Lady Hardcastle and her beloved friend and assistant Florence (Flo) Armstrong are two formidable women. They have worked for the British government in many parts of the world. They also help the local constabulary every now and then. They have been known to kill in self-defense. These two women are amazingly able and they also are very amusing.
Not necessarily amusing to the people they catch, but amusing none the less.
The ladies are celebrating Lady Hardcastle’s birthday at a very popular play. At the opening of the second act, the body of one of the actors is on the stage with a dagger sticking out of him. He is very dead. His death is not part of the play.
Lady Hardcastle and Flo are asked to investigate on behalf of a friend, but also on behalf of an Inspector who is a friend. Their abilities are admired by many.
This is a wonderful mystery.
There are many suspects and each of them have a motive, some motives are much better than others. All the suspects are people connected to the play. And we all know how show biz people are.
There are beautiful actors and actresses, a very talented author, and a director. All of them are interesting, but not all seem to be capable of murder. Of course, people who act can be anyone they choose and present any face they choose. They are also not above pointing fingers at one another. Could a broken love affair be cause for murder?
There are surprises. At least one which is quite a surprise.
The characters are all interesting as well as entertaining. The atmosphere is of the early twentieth century. The reader is immersed in another time when communication is much less instant but much more personal.
If you like fun mysteries, this is a book for you.
Mr Kinsey is one of the most talented of mystery authors. He writes with humor, humanity and a very good mind for mystery.
I love this series.
Although this book is the most recent in a series, it works perfectly fine as a stand alone read.
Not necessarily amusing to the people they catch, but amusing none the less.
The ladies are celebrating Lady Hardcastle’s birthday at a very popular play. At the opening of the second act, the body of one of the actors is on the stage with a dagger sticking out of him. He is very dead. His death is not part of the play.
Lady Hardcastle and Flo are asked to investigate on behalf of a friend, but also on behalf of an Inspector who is a friend. Their abilities are admired by many.
This is a wonderful mystery.
There are many suspects and each of them have a motive, some motives are much better than others. All the suspects are people connected to the play. And we all know how show biz people are.
There are beautiful actors and actresses, a very talented author, and a director. All of them are interesting, but not all seem to be capable of murder. Of course, people who act can be anyone they choose and present any face they choose. They are also not above pointing fingers at one another. Could a broken love affair be cause for murder?
There are surprises. At least one which is quite a surprise.
The characters are all interesting as well as entertaining. The atmosphere is of the early twentieth century. The reader is immersed in another time when communication is much less instant but much more personal.
If you like fun mysteries, this is a book for you.
Mr Kinsey is one of the most talented of mystery authors. He writes with humor, humanity and a very good mind for mystery.
I love this series.
Although this book is the most recent in a series, it works perfectly fine as a stand alone read.
March 11, 2023
Another light, fun ... but not boring or simple ... mystery in this series. It's Emily's (Lady Harcastle's) birthday so what better time to get together with friends at the theatre. And the first half is very enjoyable. But as the curtain rises on Act II there's a body on the stage -- definitely not in the script. The investigating officer is not their friend Inspector Sunderland but a rather inept alternate. But Emily and Flo decide to look into things anyway -- partly as a favor to their friend Georgie Bickle who is closes to the playwright of the company and partly to keep detective Wyatt from arresting someone without sufficient evidence.
Flo's identical twin sister Gwen is also visiting which makes for some amusing confusion among their friends, but also works to their advantage in their investigations.
As usual, the dialog is witty and fun. It's an easy, relaxing and very enjoyable read. But if you've not read any of the series before, start at the beginning. You won't be sorry.
Flo's identical twin sister Gwen is also visiting which makes for some amusing confusion among their friends, but also works to their advantage in their investigations.
As usual, the dialog is witty and fun. It's an easy, relaxing and very enjoyable read. But if you've not read any of the series before, start at the beginning. You won't be sorry.
February 12, 2023
These books just get better as the series goes on, and considering how fun the wonderful book was, this is saying a lot. Lady Hardcastle and Flo Armstrong are back, and this investigation concerns a murder, and then another murder, in a traveling acting troupe. There is also the matter of stolen booze at the main characters' favorite pub. This book has a lot of humor, plus Flo's twin sister. There are lots of secrets and twists, and the mysteries will keep readers guessing.
These books remind me a lot of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot books, as far as the humor, the complexity of the crimes, and both detectives calling themselves idiots at some point; plus, each series is from the point of view of the "assistants." (Well, most of the Poirot books and stories.) Now, of course, that I have finished An Act of Foul Play, I must wait for Book 10 in this series--torture!
These books remind me a lot of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot books, as far as the humor, the complexity of the crimes, and both detectives calling themselves idiots at some point; plus, each series is from the point of view of the "assistants." (Well, most of the Poirot books and stories.) Now, of course, that I have finished An Act of Foul Play, I must wait for Book 10 in this series--torture!
February 7, 2023
This was another fun outing with Florence Armstrong and Lady Emily Hardcastle. This plot involves a murder at a theater in Bristol. We get to meet Flo's twin sister Gwenyth. Who knew Flo had a twin? The sleuthing is so fun in this book. Best of all, Elizabeth Knowelden's narration of the audiobook makes the book come alive in delightful ways. As usual I chuckled at the clever banter between Flo and Lady Emily.
I highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys an intelligent cozy mystery. It's set in the Edwardian era, but features thoroughly foreward thinking women. I enjoy the series most by listening to the audiobooks.
I highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys an intelligent cozy mystery. It's set in the Edwardian era, but features thoroughly foreward thinking women. I enjoy the series most by listening to the audiobooks.
October 27, 2022
It's Nov 1911 Lady Hardcastle is back along with her made Flo for their ninth adventure.
The group are off to the theatre to celebrate a birthday. When the second half of the play brings an unexpected and unpleasant surprise. It's up to Inspector Sunderland to jump in and take charge. I feel although it can be read as a standalone it would be a benefit to read the other books in the series. This is a good cosy English murder mystery, fun characters and wonderful word usage. With a definite flare for the world of the amateur dramatics.
The group are off to the theatre to celebrate a birthday. When the second half of the play brings an unexpected and unpleasant surprise. It's up to Inspector Sunderland to jump in and take charge. I feel although it can be read as a standalone it would be a benefit to read the other books in the series. This is a good cosy English murder mystery, fun characters and wonderful word usage. With a definite flare for the world of the amateur dramatics.
March 13, 2023
This is set almost entirely in Bristol, with a big swerve away from the ‘we are spies for the government and the war is looming’ to hardcore Cody ‘there’s been a moider in the theatre!’. Who cares, these are low key and sweet, and I’m not really bothered what they are about. The whodunnit is weak, but again, these books are much more the characters wandering about chatting to each other, with Elizabeth Knowenden having a much easier time than with that absolutely manic audiobook from a week back, and clearly feeling rather more relived about the whole thing. Always a pleasure.
October 27, 2022
Netgalley provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I came into this 9th book in the Lady Hardcastle series blind and although it can be read as a standalone I do think I would have benefited from reading the previous books to help get a better understanding of the characters.
This murder mystery is set in the wonderful world of amateur dramatics.
Some wonderful word usage, interesting ideas and fun to keep me invested until the end.
I came into this 9th book in the Lady Hardcastle series blind and although it can be read as a standalone I do think I would have benefited from reading the previous books to help get a better understanding of the characters.
This murder mystery is set in the wonderful world of amateur dramatics.
Some wonderful word usage, interesting ideas and fun to keep me invested until the end.
December 16, 2022
Lady Hardcastle mysteries are always compelling, witty, solid, and highly entertaing. A solid and well developed mystery that kept me guessing, lots of humour.
I was happy to catch up with the fleshed out characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
I was happy to catch up with the fleshed out characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
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