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Doyle & Acton #16
Murder in All Fury
The much-anticipated homicide trial for the fentanyl murders was going forward, but Doyle couldn’t shake the feeling that they’d overlooked an important suspect, along the way.
It may have been because Acton was being more secretive than his usual, and was taking great pains to keep his wedded wife away from the trial, and away from the evidence, which would be presented.
Or, it may have been because there’d been a string of arson fires, which appeared to be related to the fentanyl case.
Regardless, it seemed that it would be left to the fair Doyle, to try to piece together who’d really killed the popular MP—so long as she could do it between breast-feedings, a cheeky toddler, and having to deal with a missing nanny.
It may have been because Acton was being more secretive than his usual, and was taking great pains to keep his wedded wife away from the trial, and away from the evidence, which would be presented.
Or, it may have been because there’d been a string of arson fires, which appeared to be related to the fentanyl case.
Regardless, it seemed that it would be left to the fair Doyle, to try to piece together who’d really killed the popular MP—so long as she could do it between breast-feedings, a cheeky toddler, and having to deal with a missing nanny.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2022
44 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Anne Cleeland
36 books473 followersAnne Cleeland writes a contemporary Scotland Yard mystery series that is featured in the Amazon top 100 best sellers. She also writes a historical series of stand-alone books set in the Regency period. A member of International Thriller Writers, The Historical Novel Society, and Mystery Writers of America, she lives in California and has four children. www.annecleeland.com; @annecleeland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 19, 2022
“Hence!” to quote Kathleen Doyle. This was a plot twister all around. Poor honorable Howard, dumped his aristocrat fiancé for true love with Mary only to get accidentally murdered by a bunch of Russian villains.
But wow, I was very surprised and disappointed in Mary; her beloved husband is barely in his grave five minutes and she’s already turned her affections elsewhere. Mary is very naive and easily manipulated; she’s walking right into Savoie’s snare. I fear her actions will get them all butchered because if Savoie ever learns his brother died by Kathleen’s hand, he will declare war on the house of Acton
Argh, that bounder Thomas Williams! Still out there catting around and being manipulated by deceitful women. I’m so happy for Lizzie and hope she plants Thomas a facer if he doesn’t get his libido under control. It’s bad enough she’s stuck raising his brat begotten with that crazy Lady Abby.
I missed seeing the mean ole Dowager Lady Acton, but it was wonderful to have Reynolds steady presence in the mix. Loved seeing the littles, Gemma, Edward, baby Tommie, becoming integral parts of the story.
Now the agonizing wait begins for the next Acton and Doyle release.
Excellent read and highly recommended!
But wow, I was very surprised and disappointed in Mary; her beloved husband is barely in his grave five minutes and she’s already turned her affections elsewhere. Mary is very naive and easily manipulated; she’s walking right into Savoie’s snare. I fear her actions will get them all butchered because if Savoie ever learns his brother died by Kathleen’s hand, he will declare war on the house of Acton
Argh, that bounder Thomas Williams! Still out there catting around and being manipulated by deceitful women. I’m so happy for Lizzie and hope she plants Thomas a facer if he doesn’t get his libido under control. It’s bad enough she’s stuck raising his brat begotten with that crazy Lady Abby.
I missed seeing the mean ole Dowager Lady Acton, but it was wonderful to have Reynolds steady presence in the mix. Loved seeing the littles, Gemma, Edward, baby Tommie, becoming integral parts of the story.
Now the agonizing wait begins for the next Acton and Doyle release.
Excellent read and highly recommended!
October 14, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: Doyle & Acton #16
Publication Date: 9/12/22
Period: Contemporary London
Number of Pages: 247
Oh! My! Goodness! This may be the most exciting book of the series so far. The trial for those accused of murdering MP Nigel Howard is rapidly approaching. Acton knows that the person who is really responsible has escaped justice, and he fully intends to deliver justice – Acton style. He’s already put his plans in motion – can they be stopped by Doyle? You should close this review and start reading the book right now so you can find out!
Doyle knows Acton is up to something – he’s restless and distracted. She’s never seen him quite this way even in the middle of his most diabolical plans. He’s also brought them to the shore on vacation and neither of them are vacation people. What is with that? Whatever is bothering him is eating him alive and she has to find out what it is and stop it before Acton brings them all down.
Poor Doyle! She’s just delivered a beautiful, healthy baby boy and now, between breastfeeding and caring for two children, she has to manage to unravel and stop her husband’s plans. Ah, but never fear, the intrepid Doyle will, as always, put a spanner in the works – or will she manage it this time? Discovering the plan is one thing – managing to put a stop to it is another when Acton so truly believes he is bringing justice against the correct person – the person who escaped the justice system.
Doyle follows obscure hints and pumps her friends and fellow workers to get to the bottom of the mystery. When she gets there, she is shocked beyond belief. How could Acton possibly be planning what she’s discovered? OMGoodness! She’s discovered the what and the how – just in the nick of time – but can she bring it to a screeching halt at this point? Acton has never gotten it wrong before – how can he be so very, very wrong this time?
I loved this latest addition to the series. It was so exciting, I couldn’t put it down and read straight through the night until I finished it. I love that Doyle always shines even though she considers herself a ‘dim bulb’. Academically she might not be the sharpest tack in the pack because she disliked school – but – she reads people and motives like a book. She knows the good ones from the bad ones almost immediately and she uses those skills to keep Acton in line and put a halt to his schemes.
There were a couple of characters I was thoroughly and completely disappointed in – one can possibly be rehabilitated, but the other – for me, I just don’t see how. First, there is Williams who is now married to Lizzie – but he’s still been out for drinks, etc. with other women. Hopefully, the author will let him have an epiphany and he and Lizzy can become a true love match – after all – she’s helping raise his illegitimate child. Then, there is Mary – sweet, naïve Mary – who has now done the unforgivable in my eyes. I’m a romantic through and through and Mary is now marrying another man almost as soon as her husband is buried. Her husband (Nigel Howard) was supposedly the love of her life, yet she almost immediately takes up with another man. No! Just NO! No matter what the author does with Mary now, I will never look at her the same and that is sad. I don’t think Mary needs to stay alone forever – but I’d have liked to see a fair amount of time pass before she walks on his grave. I like Mary’s new pairing – I just don’t like the timing.
I definitely recommend this book and this series and should you decide to read it, I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Series: Doyle & Acton #16
Publication Date: 9/12/22
Period: Contemporary London
Number of Pages: 247
Oh! My! Goodness! This may be the most exciting book of the series so far. The trial for those accused of murdering MP Nigel Howard is rapidly approaching. Acton knows that the person who is really responsible has escaped justice, and he fully intends to deliver justice – Acton style. He’s already put his plans in motion – can they be stopped by Doyle? You should close this review and start reading the book right now so you can find out!
Doyle knows Acton is up to something – he’s restless and distracted. She’s never seen him quite this way even in the middle of his most diabolical plans. He’s also brought them to the shore on vacation and neither of them are vacation people. What is with that? Whatever is bothering him is eating him alive and she has to find out what it is and stop it before Acton brings them all down.
Poor Doyle! She’s just delivered a beautiful, healthy baby boy and now, between breastfeeding and caring for two children, she has to manage to unravel and stop her husband’s plans. Ah, but never fear, the intrepid Doyle will, as always, put a spanner in the works – or will she manage it this time? Discovering the plan is one thing – managing to put a stop to it is another when Acton so truly believes he is bringing justice against the correct person – the person who escaped the justice system.
Doyle follows obscure hints and pumps her friends and fellow workers to get to the bottom of the mystery. When she gets there, she is shocked beyond belief. How could Acton possibly be planning what she’s discovered? OMGoodness! She’s discovered the what and the how – just in the nick of time – but can she bring it to a screeching halt at this point? Acton has never gotten it wrong before – how can he be so very, very wrong this time?
I loved this latest addition to the series. It was so exciting, I couldn’t put it down and read straight through the night until I finished it. I love that Doyle always shines even though she considers herself a ‘dim bulb’. Academically she might not be the sharpest tack in the pack because she disliked school – but – she reads people and motives like a book. She knows the good ones from the bad ones almost immediately and she uses those skills to keep Acton in line and put a halt to his schemes.
There were a couple of characters I was thoroughly and completely disappointed in – one can possibly be rehabilitated, but the other – for me, I just don’t see how. First, there is Williams who is now married to Lizzie – but he’s still been out for drinks, etc. with other women. Hopefully, the author will let him have an epiphany and he and Lizzy can become a true love match – after all – she’s helping raise his illegitimate child. Then, there is Mary – sweet, naïve Mary – who has now done the unforgivable in my eyes. I’m a romantic through and through and Mary is now marrying another man almost as soon as her husband is buried. Her husband (Nigel Howard) was supposedly the love of her life, yet she almost immediately takes up with another man. No! Just NO! No matter what the author does with Mary now, I will never look at her the same and that is sad. I don’t think Mary needs to stay alone forever – but I’d have liked to see a fair amount of time pass before she walks on his grave. I like Mary’s new pairing – I just don’t like the timing.
I definitely recommend this book and this series and should you decide to read it, I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
September 20, 2022
Loved this installment so much more than the others in this super amazing mystery series ~ to date! This one was absolutely the most explosive!
Lord Acton, the illustrious Chief Inspector, almost lost himself in executing a well planned avenge of the murder of an innocent Howard! I was practically holding my breath the entire 247 pages! I knew Lord Acton's target! I was also certain that he got it wrong this time, even when all the events pointed straight at the guy!
Doyle had saved the day yet again! What a heart pounding crime solving action mystery! Again, most of the credits went to Reynolds, whose command of the Classics, had steered Doyle through the maze of obscure hints delivered by the ghost of Howard! Phew! She got to the truth just in the nick of time, or the idiom she would've used ➡️ "In the time of Nick." To hold off Lord Acton's clearly way off track action!
This mystery was so exquisitely written! It was so visually rich I felt like watching all the events unfolding on the big screen ~ all sights ~ sounds ~ were gripping and mesmerizing!
Other worthy characters ➡️ Savoie, Edward, Tommy, Gemma, Mary, Williams, Gabriel, Sir Vikili, and more, definitely helped twisted the mystery harder to untangle and solve! So yes, all was hugely captivating! By the way ~ I intentionally left out the mention of all of the true villains! No spoilers from me!
I loved how it ended! Loved how Savoie, an AntiVillain, as opposed to Lord Acton, an AntiHero, ended up almost like two sides of one coin! And I loved the future of the series! We all knew that when Edward grew up and got married, Lord Acton and Savoie would become the IN-LAWS!
Sharing one of Lord Acton & Kathleen's romantic moments:
Lord Acton, the illustrious Chief Inspector, almost lost himself in executing a well planned avenge of the murder of an innocent Howard! I was practically holding my breath the entire 247 pages! I knew Lord Acton's target! I was also certain that he got it wrong this time, even when all the events pointed straight at the guy!
Doyle had saved the day yet again! What a heart pounding crime solving action mystery! Again, most of the credits went to Reynolds, whose command of the Classics, had steered Doyle through the maze of obscure hints delivered by the ghost of Howard! Phew! She got to the truth just in the nick of time, or the idiom she would've used ➡️ "In the time of Nick." To hold off Lord Acton's clearly way off track action!
This mystery was so exquisitely written! It was so visually rich I felt like watching all the events unfolding on the big screen ~ all sights ~ sounds ~ were gripping and mesmerizing!
Other worthy characters ➡️ Savoie, Edward, Tommy, Gemma, Mary, Williams, Gabriel, Sir Vikili, and more, definitely helped twisted the mystery harder to untangle and solve! So yes, all was hugely captivating! By the way ~ I intentionally left out the mention of all of the true villains! No spoilers from me!
I loved how it ended! Loved how Savoie, an AntiVillain, as opposed to Lord Acton, an AntiHero, ended up almost like two sides of one coin! And I loved the future of the series! We all knew that when Edward grew up and got married, Lord Acton and Savoie would become the IN-LAWS!
Sharing one of Lord Acton & Kathleen's romantic moments:
She then decided the more direct action was needed, and so she circled the chair, to climb onto his lap, astraddle, and set her arms on his shoulders . . .
"Willaims said that a man can always tell, when a woman is givin' him the green light. Is that true?" She planted a soft kiss, on his cheek.
Amused, he replied, "I would rate it as true."
She narrowed her eyes. "How many women give you the green light, in the course of an average day"?
"None that can hold a candle to you."
Laughing, she declared, "Faith, but you're a smooth one."
Very content, he closed his eyes, as she resumed placing leisurely kisses, along his face. “D’you know, husband, when I’m givin’ you the green light?”
“I do.”
January 23, 2023
“Vengeance was in his blood, along with wrath, and pride, and all those other very questionable medieval urges.”
Acton and Doyle have taken a vacation, something unheard of for them, to the seaside to allow Kathleen some relaxation after the birth of their new son Tommy. It’s a good trip for first son Edward to burn off some of his energy, too, going to the sea and playing there. Of course, events happen to catch the attention of Lord Acton, such as a fire at the nearby marina and the death of a well-known actress there. Acton as Chief Inspector with the Met is asked to consult on the fire and death. Mary, Edward’s former nanny and a recent widow, comes to spend a few days with Kathleen toward the end of their stay. The housekeeper, Mrs. Macky, seems quite taken with Mary and her daughter Gemma, paying little attention to the lady of the house who employs her.
Getting back to London is a relief for both Kathleen and Michael. The trial for the murderer of Mary’s husband, Nigel Howard, who was an MP, is soon to be underway, along with the other fentanyl murders. Although it is supposedly a cut and dried case, Kathleen is receiving ghostly visits from Mary’s husband saying otherwise. Someone is slipping the knot of justice in this killing, and Sir Howard wants his death avenged and Mary protected. And, Kathleen is puzzled at the ghost’s repeated comment that he is not sorry he’s dead. With Acton also believing someone has escaped due justice, he’s involved in obtaining vengeance for Mary’s husband behind the scenes, as Acton is wont to do.
Of course, Acton is usually pulling strings and doing his secretive stuff, and Kathleen is trying to figure out Acton’s contrivances and keep up with them. It’s such a great part of this series, watching Acton’s and Doyle’s interactions and conversations as they work toward the same goal in their different ways. They are both seeking to ensure the responsible parties pay for the death of a good man. Kathleen is worried that this particular case is twisting Acton into way too many knots, and she, as Kathleen is wont to do, is determined to save him from himself. “But, you’re brimful of wrath, Michael, and it’s blindin’ your judgment.” What finally is brought to light will end up surprising both Acton and Doyle.
The characters of this series are some of my favorites in reading. Acton and Doyle are the perfect mismatched couple, complimenting one another with their differences in background and life views. Kathleen Doyle isn’t afraid to admit she needs a clearer understanding of some words and allusions, but she is brilliant at putting together the puzzle that is Acton. The love and warmth they bring to one another’s lives is life affirming in its depth. And, that both Acton and Doyle are on the police force gives them lots of common interests. The characters of Thomas Williams and his wife Izzy and Mary and her daughter Gemma enrich this story, as they do all stories in the series. The enigmatic Phillip Savoie looms large and baffling, and Mary is being watched over very thoroughly by Phillipe Savoie, who is meeting all her needs and then some. The always faithful, steady Reynolds expertly runs the household, but he defers to the Lady and Lord as any good English servant would. Anne Cleeland never disappoints in bringing to life these creations of hers.
I so thoroughly enjoyed Murder in All Fury. It’s one of my favorite ones in the Doyle and Acton series. I enjoy all the books in this series, but this one really stands out for me. I think all the Doyle and Acton fans are going to be exceedingly pleased with Murder in All Fury. And, I do think that it could be read without reading the previous books because the plot is more linear than some in the series. Of course, anyone reading any book in this series out of order is going to want to read them all.
Acton and Doyle have taken a vacation, something unheard of for them, to the seaside to allow Kathleen some relaxation after the birth of their new son Tommy. It’s a good trip for first son Edward to burn off some of his energy, too, going to the sea and playing there. Of course, events happen to catch the attention of Lord Acton, such as a fire at the nearby marina and the death of a well-known actress there. Acton as Chief Inspector with the Met is asked to consult on the fire and death. Mary, Edward’s former nanny and a recent widow, comes to spend a few days with Kathleen toward the end of their stay. The housekeeper, Mrs. Macky, seems quite taken with Mary and her daughter Gemma, paying little attention to the lady of the house who employs her.
Getting back to London is a relief for both Kathleen and Michael. The trial for the murderer of Mary’s husband, Nigel Howard, who was an MP, is soon to be underway, along with the other fentanyl murders. Although it is supposedly a cut and dried case, Kathleen is receiving ghostly visits from Mary’s husband saying otherwise. Someone is slipping the knot of justice in this killing, and Sir Howard wants his death avenged and Mary protected. And, Kathleen is puzzled at the ghost’s repeated comment that he is not sorry he’s dead. With Acton also believing someone has escaped due justice, he’s involved in obtaining vengeance for Mary’s husband behind the scenes, as Acton is wont to do.
Of course, Acton is usually pulling strings and doing his secretive stuff, and Kathleen is trying to figure out Acton’s contrivances and keep up with them. It’s such a great part of this series, watching Acton’s and Doyle’s interactions and conversations as they work toward the same goal in their different ways. They are both seeking to ensure the responsible parties pay for the death of a good man. Kathleen is worried that this particular case is twisting Acton into way too many knots, and she, as Kathleen is wont to do, is determined to save him from himself. “But, you’re brimful of wrath, Michael, and it’s blindin’ your judgment.” What finally is brought to light will end up surprising both Acton and Doyle.
The characters of this series are some of my favorites in reading. Acton and Doyle are the perfect mismatched couple, complimenting one another with their differences in background and life views. Kathleen Doyle isn’t afraid to admit she needs a clearer understanding of some words and allusions, but she is brilliant at putting together the puzzle that is Acton. The love and warmth they bring to one another’s lives is life affirming in its depth. And, that both Acton and Doyle are on the police force gives them lots of common interests. The characters of Thomas Williams and his wife Izzy and Mary and her daughter Gemma enrich this story, as they do all stories in the series. The enigmatic Phillip Savoie looms large and baffling, and Mary is being watched over very thoroughly by Phillipe Savoie, who is meeting all her needs and then some. The always faithful, steady Reynolds expertly runs the household, but he defers to the Lady and Lord as any good English servant would. Anne Cleeland never disappoints in bringing to life these creations of hers.
I so thoroughly enjoyed Murder in All Fury. It’s one of my favorite ones in the Doyle and Acton series. I enjoy all the books in this series, but this one really stands out for me. I think all the Doyle and Acton fans are going to be exceedingly pleased with Murder in All Fury. And, I do think that it could be read without reading the previous books because the plot is more linear than some in the series. Of course, anyone reading any book in this series out of order is going to want to read them all.
September 16, 2022
So good
I have been watching Queen Elizabeth II viewing and I needed something to lift my spirits. So glad when I saw a new Acton and Doyle book..I have enjoyed these since the first one...Kathleen, to me, is a wonderful character. She is the kind that you wish were real and you could be friends with. Acton, with his dark moods, to me is the perfect companion for Kathleen...I always think of him as Acton not Michael 😁😁. I hope his love for Kathleen keeps being strong and more mysteries are on the way. I won't say anything about the story because I can't review very well...but I loved it!!!!
I have been watching Queen Elizabeth II viewing and I needed something to lift my spirits. So glad when I saw a new Acton and Doyle book..I have enjoyed these since the first one...Kathleen, to me, is a wonderful character. She is the kind that you wish were real and you could be friends with. Acton, with his dark moods, to me is the perfect companion for Kathleen...I always think of him as Acton not Michael 😁😁. I hope his love for Kathleen keeps being strong and more mysteries are on the way. I won't say anything about the story because I can't review very well...but I loved it!!!!
September 24, 2022
I'd rate this 4.5 stars, enjoying it enough to round it up. I was going to take a star off for some of the issues I'll mention below, but there was decent twist in the case Acton and Doyle focussed on in this book that mollified me enough to rate it more highly. When several people known in some way or another to our merry couple mysteriously disappear, there are too many threads unravelling for it to be sheer coincidence. As the Public Accounts scandal starts to play out in court, there seems to be more trouble afoot that sends Doyle rushing to uncover the truth and protect those close to her. Quick note - if you haven't read any books in this series before, I'd recommend you start with Book 1 first. Even though there are a few recaps in this one to get readers up to speed as this series has basically been a couple of main cases draw out over more than a dozen books, it'll help knowing the main characters and where it started. If you have read other novels involving Doyle and Acton, you'll probably be able to grab this one and get the general gist of it because the author keeps dragging up and gripping onto the past anyway.
In the words of Doyle herself in the book: "It just seems so strange - that none of this is ever over, and done with. These same characters keep poppin' up - like a jack o' the clock - even after they're long dead". I feel you, Doyle, I feel you, because once again, even though I enjoyed this book, there was serious case of Groundhog Day as the same themes are trotted out again almost to the point of ad nauseum. This series holds so much promise and I like the premise for the most part which is why I keep getting suckered in to one-click it, but to be honest, there hasn't really been anything new in this series for a long time. The same characters and cases seem to drag on forever and every time I think they've started to be wrapped up, past investigations crop up from the dead to haunt the reader because they never seem to be go away.
Doyle is once again visited by a ghost who implores her to help him before it's too late and Acton gets himself into a mess that could have disastrous effects for everyone involved. The ghost gives Doyle vague clues that she stumbles upon the answers to, although to be fair, she actually put some of it together herself for once this time instead of making a huge mess that has to be quickly sorted out. There's even more repetition with Acton being distracted, having fingers in various pies, running himself to ground as he tries to scheme everything into place all while trying to keep his beloved wife away from the truth when she has literally uncovered his guile and plots for the entire duration of their marriage (not to mention 16 books! - it always astounds me that the best detective in London can't figure this out). And of course there was Doyle's prickling scalp and elusive thoughts that are vital to solving the case as something massive heats up.
I enjoyed the mystery Doyle was set to solve from her ghostly visitor, aka Howard. The tension between Savoie and Acton was good as was the investigation of the suspects. I liked the style of writing for the most part, although the author does take a pretty heavy liberty with the Irish turns of phrase. The characters continue to be solid, if super repetitive. The Acton infatuation with Doyle, while definitely there, seemed to be dialled down a little for this book which was fine because the case was solid enough that it didn't need extra propping up and Doyle took more of a centre stage with the investigation. That being said, the author is in desperate need of someone (anyone!) to edit the use of commas in this series, and Murder in All Fury was no exception. By the second page I was starting to wander if there was some kind of comma benefit scheme that the author was getting kickbacks from, because it's either got to be that or that she thinks they're supposed to decorate the page like confetti. They are everywhere. Literally. It creates terrible issues for those that prefer their reading to be more fluid and fluent as they actually take notice of punctuation.
I'll continue with this series for the moment, but I really hope the author takes the time to think of a new case so the books can have more closure and be a little less repetitive. It's really incredible that readers are on to Book 16 or so and it's pretty much the same over-aching couple of cases they're purchasing with a couple of distraction murders here and there. A couple of standalone cases would go down a treat and stop readers from feeling as though they're just reading the same material over and over. My love for Acton and Doyle can probably only be taken so far before even they lose their shine.
In the words of Doyle herself in the book: "It just seems so strange - that none of this is ever over, and done with. These same characters keep poppin' up - like a jack o' the clock - even after they're long dead". I feel you, Doyle, I feel you, because once again, even though I enjoyed this book, there was serious case of Groundhog Day as the same themes are trotted out again almost to the point of ad nauseum. This series holds so much promise and I like the premise for the most part which is why I keep getting suckered in to one-click it, but to be honest, there hasn't really been anything new in this series for a long time. The same characters and cases seem to drag on forever and every time I think they've started to be wrapped up, past investigations crop up from the dead to haunt the reader because they never seem to be go away.
Doyle is once again visited by a ghost who implores her to help him before it's too late and Acton gets himself into a mess that could have disastrous effects for everyone involved. The ghost gives Doyle vague clues that she stumbles upon the answers to, although to be fair, she actually put some of it together herself for once this time instead of making a huge mess that has to be quickly sorted out. There's even more repetition with Acton being distracted, having fingers in various pies, running himself to ground as he tries to scheme everything into place all while trying to keep his beloved wife away from the truth when she has literally uncovered his guile and plots for the entire duration of their marriage (not to mention 16 books! - it always astounds me that the best detective in London can't figure this out). And of course there was Doyle's prickling scalp and elusive thoughts that are vital to solving the case as something massive heats up.
I enjoyed the mystery Doyle was set to solve from her ghostly visitor, aka Howard. The tension between Savoie and Acton was good as was the investigation of the suspects. I liked the style of writing for the most part, although the author does take a pretty heavy liberty with the Irish turns of phrase. The characters continue to be solid, if super repetitive. The Acton infatuation with Doyle, while definitely there, seemed to be dialled down a little for this book which was fine because the case was solid enough that it didn't need extra propping up and Doyle took more of a centre stage with the investigation. That being said, the author is in desperate need of someone (anyone!) to edit the use of commas in this series, and Murder in All Fury was no exception. By the second page I was starting to wander if there was some kind of comma benefit scheme that the author was getting kickbacks from, because it's either got to be that or that she thinks they're supposed to decorate the page like confetti. They are everywhere. Literally. It creates terrible issues for those that prefer their reading to be more fluid and fluent as they actually take notice of punctuation.
I'll continue with this series for the moment, but I really hope the author takes the time to think of a new case so the books can have more closure and be a little less repetitive. It's really incredible that readers are on to Book 16 or so and it's pretty much the same over-aching couple of cases they're purchasing with a couple of distraction murders here and there. A couple of standalone cases would go down a treat and stop readers from feeling as though they're just reading the same material over and over. My love for Acton and Doyle can probably only be taken so far before even they lose their shine.
July 8, 2023
In general, I think this is a good series, although the first three books were definitely the best and one or two others in the series were close.
The length of the books are about 250 pages, so they are a quick read and also mostly follow a logical storyline. But, I find that the depth has disappeared and the story skims the surface. I feel that the series suffers from the annual cranking out of the next book and much seems formulaic. That said, I still like the characters, but they come and go - also on the surface. For example, when Lizzie Williams says that her marriage is not a love match... I want to know more. She and Thomas Williams suddenly were married between books after some mild flirtation... well? Nothing about the wedding or much else. With Williams having such a pivotal role in the early books, this seems like this storyline branch is almost a "wrap it up afterthought."
I feel that when you write a book that you want people to read and pay money for the opportunity, some care should be taken with the basics. The last 10 or so books in this series suffer from poor editing and no proofreading (or, if they are proofread, then a new proofreader needs to be found). Some sentences end with no punctuation. I love commas, but the excessive and seemingly random use is distracting: commas between subject and predicate in a sentence, commas instead of periods, confusing phraseology due to placement of commas in the middle of a phrase. Then, the book is saturated with semi-colons - used in place of commas (see, I told you I do like commas), periods. colons. The semi-colons are used hundreds of times - mostly incorrectly. And, finally, my last grammar rant, Ms. Cleeland is hyphen-happy, incorrectly using hyphens in verbs throughout the book and between adjectives and nouns. Someone should remove the dash and semi-colon keys from her computer keyboard. (A while ago, I did offer Anne Cleeland, in an email, a donation of my proofreading for the next book, which was a few books ago after the character Melinda became Melissa for four pages and then went back to being Melinda ...)
My husband, after listening to this review, asked me why I keep reading this series. I said that I keep hoping it will get better, which provoked a laugh and a comment about why people stop hitting their head against the wall. I would love to have the depth of the first books in this series follow through into the next ones. This was the sixteenth book in the series and sometimes it is hard to follow what is happening because of oblique references to characters long dead, some going back to the first chapter of the first book. At times, it seems to plod along. Inspector Lord Acton seems to be in a dull period of his life and can't quite get some of the basic points his wife is pointing out to him. Some reviewers like the ghosts, but I find them distracting, even irritating, in their vagueness.
I will probably continue to purchase this series for our town library as part of the Adopt-An-Author program. I know that others enjoy them and I plan to read the next book (there's that hitting-your-head-on-the-wall thing again.) Anne Cleeland has introduced intriguing characters, but she needs to slow down and develop them more - and get a proofreader.
To end of a positive note, the cover of this book and previous books in the series are wonderfully designed.
The length of the books are about 250 pages, so they are a quick read and also mostly follow a logical storyline. But, I find that the depth has disappeared and the story skims the surface. I feel that the series suffers from the annual cranking out of the next book and much seems formulaic. That said, I still like the characters, but they come and go - also on the surface. For example, when Lizzie Williams says that her marriage is not a love match... I want to know more. She and Thomas Williams suddenly were married between books after some mild flirtation... well? Nothing about the wedding or much else. With Williams having such a pivotal role in the early books, this seems like this storyline branch is almost a "wrap it up afterthought."
I feel that when you write a book that you want people to read and pay money for the opportunity, some care should be taken with the basics. The last 10 or so books in this series suffer from poor editing and no proofreading (or, if they are proofread, then a new proofreader needs to be found). Some sentences end with no punctuation. I love commas, but the excessive and seemingly random use is distracting: commas between subject and predicate in a sentence, commas instead of periods, confusing phraseology due to placement of commas in the middle of a phrase. Then, the book is saturated with semi-colons - used in place of commas (see, I told you I do like commas), periods. colons. The semi-colons are used hundreds of times - mostly incorrectly. And, finally, my last grammar rant, Ms. Cleeland is hyphen-happy, incorrectly using hyphens in verbs throughout the book and between adjectives and nouns. Someone should remove the dash and semi-colon keys from her computer keyboard. (A while ago, I did offer Anne Cleeland, in an email, a donation of my proofreading for the next book, which was a few books ago after the character Melinda became Melissa for four pages and then went back to being Melinda ...)
My husband, after listening to this review, asked me why I keep reading this series. I said that I keep hoping it will get better, which provoked a laugh and a comment about why people stop hitting their head against the wall. I would love to have the depth of the first books in this series follow through into the next ones. This was the sixteenth book in the series and sometimes it is hard to follow what is happening because of oblique references to characters long dead, some going back to the first chapter of the first book. At times, it seems to plod along. Inspector Lord Acton seems to be in a dull period of his life and can't quite get some of the basic points his wife is pointing out to him. Some reviewers like the ghosts, but I find them distracting, even irritating, in their vagueness.
I will probably continue to purchase this series for our town library as part of the Adopt-An-Author program. I know that others enjoy them and I plan to read the next book (there's that hitting-your-head-on-the-wall thing again.) Anne Cleeland has introduced intriguing characters, but she needs to slow down and develop them more - and get a proofreader.
To end of a positive note, the cover of this book and previous books in the series are wonderfully designed.
October 4, 2022
The Fair Doyle just gave birth to her second son, Tommy... and the whole family went to the seaside for a bit of respite. But because Lord Acton is not really used to time~offs plus even the nursing Kathleen could see that her husband was restless... given that he takes long walks at night added to the fact that the ghost of their murdered MP friend, Nigel Howard visits Doyle in her sleep hinting that not all his plotters were in jail awaiting trial. Howard was the second husband of their widowed previous nanny Mary and he adopted Gemma, Mary's foster child who was previously being hidden by Mary's first husband who got killed with his paramour. Gemma was the last of the Romanovs and a group of Russians hid her for their own purposes while another cult of rabid Bolsheviks would try to do away with her. Gemma is the Actons' future daughter~in~law via Edward as per Doyle's dream. Amid all this, was Lord Acton plotting furious revenge on the wrong person for Howard's death.
October 22, 2022
This has been one of my favorite Lady Acton tales so far. It was complex, but not so confusing I couldn’t follow all the players throughout the story. I especially love the humor and surprises cleverly placed throughout, especially the “ghost dog”. In the past, some of the crimes have been so intertwined and complicated I’ve had to go back so as to read and refresh my memory. But, I managed to keep my place and track all the different characters presented, even minor references. These novels always leave me with a happy feeling, like reconnecting with an old friend you haven’t seen in a while. Best way to write a book, I’d say.
March 21, 2023
As usual lots of death in this series! 😳😱
Also, as a closed door romance book, this series is hot! 😳🫣😂🤣❤️
I’ve never read in other long series where hubby or wife called their other half constantly for a quickie in a posh hotels, their car or even a secret tunnels at their holiday accommodation! Not even in Naked in Death! 🤣🤣🤣
The mystery is excellent for this one, too.
Ms. Cleeland played me so well, lead me on to the wrong conclusion since few earlier books in the series! Ha! 😂👍
Well done, you got me! 😬😘.
Now, I can’t wait to read what happens next!
❤️❤️❤️
Also, as a closed door romance book, this series is hot! 😳🫣😂🤣❤️
I’ve never read in other long series where hubby or wife called their other half constantly for a quickie in a posh hotels, their car or even a secret tunnels at their holiday accommodation! Not even in Naked in Death! 🤣🤣🤣
The mystery is excellent for this one, too.
Ms. Cleeland played me so well, lead me on to the wrong conclusion since few earlier books in the series! Ha! 😂👍
Well done, you got me! 😬😘.
Now, I can’t wait to read what happens next!
❤️❤️❤️
January 11, 2024
Ghosts, Murder, Mayhem, and Marriage
I love Anne Cleveland's Acton and Doyle series! The characters are complex, and very relatable! Even characters that at first seem beyond the pale exhibit hidden depths that resonate. This recent story is focused on a twisted tale of ancient grudges, disappearing witnesses and staff, and gruesome murders. There are several deadly sins in the mix as well as , faith, friends, family, and of course romance. I would recommend this mystery to anyone who loves a good plot twist. Enjoy!
I love Anne Cleveland's Acton and Doyle series! The characters are complex, and very relatable! Even characters that at first seem beyond the pale exhibit hidden depths that resonate. This recent story is focused on a twisted tale of ancient grudges, disappearing witnesses and staff, and gruesome murders. There are several deadly sins in the mix as well as , faith, friends, family, and of course romance. I would recommend this mystery to anyone who loves a good plot twist. Enjoy!
September 21, 2022
Cleeland's Doyle and Acton series is a favorite of mine. I find the unlikely combination of these two characters delightful. As seemingly mismatched as they appear, they suit and compliment each other wonderfully.
I'm left thinking Doyle is indeed fae with the way she works things out. But it is her in tandem with Acton that gets the job done. Even with an infant and a toddler to work around!
I'm left thinking Doyle is indeed fae with the way she works things out. But it is her in tandem with Acton that gets the job done. Even with an infant and a toddler to work around!
December 31, 2022
This series continues to develop better insights into the central characters and their moral dilemmas. The mysteries can be counted on as a great bit of fantasy where good and evil are sometimes hard to discern. As this series has expanded, the editing has greatly improved. While the Ci derelict story of poor Irish lass turned Countess tugs hard at the “believability button,” it a good diversion. New baby,major corruption, and dark horses abound.
October 4, 2022
Another good entry with Acton and Doyle.
SPOIELR SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Savoie finally had sex with Mary (Doyle's former nanny). They plan to get married. He loves her desperately.
The bad guys accidentally killed Mary's husband (not Savoie). They were Russians trying to kill Gemma, the little girl.
SPOIELR SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Savoie finally had sex with Mary (Doyle's former nanny). They plan to get married. He loves her desperately.
The bad guys accidentally killed Mary's husband (not Savoie). They were Russians trying to kill Gemma, the little girl.
November 21, 2022
good fun
Never ending trouble for Doyle, but she has a good heart and thankfully excellent ghosts that save the day. I will always wish I could hear the lies and discover the truth, but her life is way too full of discord. But many happy endings in this story. The books have all tied together.
Never ending trouble for Doyle, but she has a good heart and thankfully excellent ghosts that save the day. I will always wish I could hear the lies and discover the truth, but her life is way too full of discord. But many happy endings in this story. The books have all tied together.
October 12, 2024
Wow!
What a mystery! I have read all the books in the series before and rereading the entire series again! This book is new but this situation was completely unexpected! What a fantastic ending! I love all the regular characters , their interaction, and the friendships that have evolved over these 16 books!
What a mystery! I have read all the books in the series before and rereading the entire series again! This book is new but this situation was completely unexpected! What a fantastic ending! I love all the regular characters , their interaction, and the friendships that have evolved over these 16 books!
October 1, 2022
I love this series!!! It's more like a series of really long chapters or a season of your favorite detective show...in this one the Met is ready to go to trial when the 'ghosts' ask for help in finding the REAL criminals...fun. Bring on the NEXT one!
December 2, 2022
Intrigue and Vengeance
This book continues the excellent series of Acton and Doyle. With all the plots and sub- plots, I'm constantly analyzing the clues to figure out the villains versus the innocent. I highly recommend this series.
This book continues the excellent series of Acton and Doyle. With all the plots and sub- plots, I'm constantly analyzing the clues to figure out the villains versus the innocent. I highly recommend this series.
April 1, 2023
More Follow-up on Police Corruption
This book is a continuation of the Doyle & Acton Mysteries as Acton works to mop up the aftermath of all the police corruption that he and his team have unearthed. It was no quite as smooth as the previous mysteries but keep me wondering what was going to happen next. I strongly recommend reading all the previous mysteries before starting on this on as otherwise you're unlikely to enjoy this one.
This book is a continuation of the Doyle & Acton Mysteries as Acton works to mop up the aftermath of all the police corruption that he and his team have unearthed. It was no quite as smooth as the previous mysteries but keep me wondering what was going to happen next. I strongly recommend reading all the previous mysteries before starting on this on as otherwise you're unlikely to enjoy this one.
June 1, 2023
I love this series and was glad to find the Audio version. Not a fan of the reader. she needs to work on her accents. The narrator from the first 4 books was so much better. doesn't detract from the great characters though.
September 15, 2025
The relief and vindication I felt when our Frenchman was cleared 😮💨
The whole thing gave me the willies, I tell you! He's the Saint Bernard!
I was kinda looking forward to Kathleen shooting him dead though, maybe next book :p
The whole thing gave me the willies, I tell you! He's the Saint Bernard!
I was kinda looking forward to Kathleen shooting him dead though, maybe next book :p
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2022
Love this series. Loved this book. Hence.
Read
October 2, 20229/29/2022
October 4, 2022
#16 already? what an amazing series, I'm going to have to go back and read them all again...
October 8, 2022
a good story
I liked this one better than some of the other recent ones. It was more about sleuthing and less violent than others.
I liked this one better than some of the other recent ones. It was more about sleuthing and less violent than others.
October 29, 2022
Good Read
I have read every book in this series and find them completely delightful. The characters are so interesting and complex. Of course the ghost are always dead on!
I have read every book in this series and find them completely delightful. The characters are so interesting and complex. Of course the ghost are always dead on!
November 21, 2022
Always an Excellent Read
I’ve read ALL of these books and have loved every single one!!! Never been disappointed!!!! Can’t wait for the next one!!!!
I’ve read ALL of these books and have loved every single one!!! Never been disappointed!!!! Can’t wait for the next one!!!!
March 9, 2023
4.5 stars I enjoy this series. It never disappoints.
December 2, 2023
I love these books!
I hope this was not the end…🥲. I still believe a good proofreading is needed but still a really good read.
I hope this was not the end…🥲. I still believe a good proofreading is needed but still a really good read.
June 2, 2025
The newest addition to the Doyle & Acton series. Although the stories are standalone, I advise that you read them in order as the story lines link.
The family is vacationing at the seaside, post-delivery of their latest son, Tommy. Doyle's latest ghost is Nigel Howard and he's asking for his death to be avenged. Doyle's confused because she understood the perpetrators were on trial.
The family is vacationing at the seaside, post-delivery of their latest son, Tommy. Doyle's latest ghost is Nigel Howard and he's asking for his death to be avenged. Doyle's confused because she understood the perpetrators were on trial.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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