Murder On Boston Common by Andrea Kress (Massachusetts Cozy Mystery Book One)

 

Publication Date:

January 21, 2023 

Genre: Cozy Historical Mystery

Length:   194 pages 

Series: Massachusetts Cozy Mysteries

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

She's rich and bored. This homicide has no motive. Determined to get to the truth, can a socialite solve the murder before she's next?

Boston, 1933. Amanda Burnside yearns for more. Dutifully hitting the social scene and volunteering for charity, the young former debutante is delighted to be dating a doctor yet wishes for excitement. But she wasn't expecting a stroll on Boston Common with her beau to end with the discovery of a dead body.

Shocked by the experience, Amanda ignores her parents' wishes and resolves to follow the clues to uncover the perpetrator. But with shady characters, ruthless bootleggers and wily politicians all fighting to keep the details buried, the plucky amateur sleuth fears the answers may land her in the morgue.
Can Amanda unmask a murderer without becoming the next victim?

My Thoughts

The story was pretty simple and the characters not super fleshed out yet but I have to confess I really enjoyed it. I will likely continue with this series. Sometimes when I read cozy mysteries I can't figure out why I like certain characters better than others. The book had a sense of YA to it in that it was simple but I came away wanting to know more about the next book and see how they develop. Amanda is working hard on her project and volunteering and is more caught up in the mystery drama without trying to be. She and the detective in the story are slightly romantic but definitely nothing serious yet. And the doctor who is proposing marriage is interesting too. 

It didn't have a great big intricate plot of whoodunit and one could have guessed the outcome fairly easitly. But that wasn't all there was to the story. I enjoyed how the author portrayed her family and the doctor's family. Amanda comes from a more aristocratic background (as is so often true in the 1920's cozies) and her parents disapprove of her involvement in "a real job" and of course in the mystery solving. Sounds like a been there done that but the author made these characters authentic and I liked them. 

In addition, there is a whole separate story developing involving Louisa, Amanda's sister and her shady club owner boyfriend, this being the prohibition era. I think it will be fun to see where all of that goes too. 

Some reviews online complained that the story is way too short and the author is just trying to get you to pay for the next one without resolving the first. I totally disagree. After finishing it I came away with feeling things were wrapped up and moving on to another case. So I'm not quite sure why they thought that. Yes, the subsequent mysteries all take place in Boston and might be a bit similiar but as I looked at book two it is a completely different story. 

If you like cozies and need some simple but fun reading you can't go wrong with the Massachusetts Cozy Mystery series, one of the few not set in England either!

The Thistle and the Rose by Jean Plaidy (The Tudor Princesses) Tudor Saga Book Eight

 

Publication Date:

January 1, 1963

Genre: Historical Fiction

Length:   320 pages 

Series: The Tudor Princesses; Tudor Saga Book Eight

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

From the pen of the legendary historical novelist Jean Plaidy comes the story of Princess Margaret Tudor, whose life of tragedy, bloodshed, and scandal would rival even that of her younger brother, Henry VIII.

Princess Margaret Tudor is the greatest prize when her father, Henry VII, negotiates the Treaty of Perpetual Peace with neighboring Scotland. The betrothal is meant to end decades of bloody border wars, but it becomes a love match: To Margaret’s surprise, she finds joy in her marriage to the dashing James IV of Scotland, a man sixteen years her senior. But the marriage, and the peace it brings to both nations, does not last. When King James is struck down by the armies of Henry VIII, Margaret—Princess of England, but Queen of Scotland—finds herself torn between loyalty to the land and family of her birth and to that of her baby son, now King of the Scots. She decides to remain in Scotland and carve out her own destiny, surviving a scandalous second marriage and battling with both her son and her brother to the very end. Like all the Tudors, Margaret’s life would be one of turmoil and controversy, but through her descendants, England and Scotland would unite as one nation, under one rule, and find peace.

My Thoughts:

Having read this years ago it isn't a new read for me but a re-read. I would like to read and review all of Jean Plaidy's books someday but that is quite a lofty goal. She was a prolific writer and greatly influenced my love of historical fiction. I was resistant to that genre until I discovered her books in my early 20's. This one about Margaret Tudor was one of my all time favorites. Although fairly short and straight forward it is nevertheless packed with history, depth of character, and accuracy. We get such great insight into Scottish politics and Margaret's transformation from young, naive girl to warrior queen, fighting for her family.

The summary above pretty much tells the jist of the story. I felt sorry for her in the beginning. She is so young, just thirteen when she marries James IV of Scotland and wants to please her parents, Henry VII and Elizabeth of York. She is overshadowed by the men in the family of course as they are the heirs to the English throne but as women always were, she is used to shore up an alliance with Scotland. She braves a new home, scheming in laws and fights to stay in the lives of her children. When James is killed in 1513 at the Battle of Flodden, she becomes regent for her son.  As she matures and comes into her own she becomes more hardened and disillusioned but resolute in her will to pave her own way as best she can as a woman in the 16th century. 

I really enjoyed this book and want to continue with the Stuart series by Plaidy. The book about Margaret's sister Mary is also excellent, telling her story as Queen of France and then the wife of Charles Brandon. 

I might add that it is really hard to find good books on both Margaret and Mary because they are so overlooked being the siblings of Henry VIII. So if you want to get a good grasp on what was going on at court during the time of all the Henry drama these are a good "side" to add to more knowledge of the time. Plaidy does a great job of showing the relationship between the girls and their domineering brother who clearly adored them but had to also contend with his place as heir to England. 

A Leaf On the Wind of All Hallows by Diana Gabaldon (Outlander Book 8.5)

 

Publication Date:

December 3, 2012

Genre: Historical Fiction

Length:  67 pages 

Series: Outlander

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

Orphaned during World War II, Roger believed that his mother died during the London Blitz, and that his father, an RAF pilot, was killed in combat. But in An Echo in the Bone, Roger discovers that this may not be the whole story. Now, in “A Leaf on the Wind of All Hallows,” readers finally learn the truth.

My Thoughts: (Mild spoiler alerts! I try not to do this but it's hard to review this one without that a bit).

I originally planned to re-read all of the Outlander series in order (again, lol) a few years ago and posted that on my blog. Sadly, I am way behind. I discovered other authors with amazing long epics like Sharon Kay Penman and got sucked into another era! But that's okay because I'd already read all the Outlander books twice and am keeping up with the amazing STARZ series of course. The new prequel spin off about Jamie and Claire's parents, Outlander: Blood of My Blood,  is coming out this summer and even though it isn't based off of a particular book, Gabaldon is heavily involved in writing and production and it should be amazing.

Since I'm working my way through other books right now I decided to post a  review of this novella and skimmed it (I've already read it twice before). It's been awhile so I truly ended up reading a lot of it again. So fun to remember these details. 

Stormbird by Conn Iggulden (The Wars of the Roses Book One)

 

Publication Date:

October 10, 2013

Genre:

Historical Fiction/Medieval Fiction

Length:  482 pages 

Series: The Wars of the Roses

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

King Henry V - the great lion of England - is long dead.

In 1437, after years of regency, the pious and gentle Henry VI, the Lamb, comes of age and accedes to the English throne. His poor health and frailty of mind render him a weakling king -Henry depends on his closest men, Spymaster Derry Brewer and William de la Pole, Duke of Suffolk, to run his kingdom.

Yet there are those, such as the Plantagenet Richard, Duke of York, who believe England must be led by a strong king if she is to survive. With England's territories in France under threat, and rumours of revolt at home, fears grow that Henry and his advisers will see the country slide into ruin. With a secret deal struck for Henry to marry a young French noblewoman, Margaret of Anjou, those fears become all too real.

As storm clouds gather over England, King Henry and his supporters find themselves besieged abroad and at home. Who, or what can save the kingdom before it is too late?

My Thoughts:

I have to confess.....this was my second attempt at this book. Years ago I tried the series and at the time was not as immersed in knowledge of the time period or the Wars of the Roses and found it kind of boring. This second time it was really good and I plan to continue with the other three books. Having said that, I did find the first half much better than the second. I know the author is generating a slow build because the series is four books long covering the wars in detail. And I know I should care about Jack Cade's rebellion but it was so detailed and became almost monotonous the last part of the book. I ended up skimming chapters. Probably this stems from two things: 1. I do not like historical fiction that is heavy on the military/battle angle (I am interested in the real people and their stories) and 2. I am not a huge fan of historical fiction about real events that make a fictional person the main focus. Both things happen in this book.

The first part leaned more heavily on Margaret of Anjou and William de la Pole, the French King, etc. and that was riveting. It gave me a great feel for Margaret and what she must have gone through marrying Henry. And I was very invested in de la Pole's story and Richard of York and how he came to be protector when Henry's mental state collapsed. So the book was a great way to learn history which is what I most want out of historical fiction. 

Murder at the Spring Ball by Benedict Brown (Lord Edgington Investigates Book One)

 

Publication Date:

March 1, 2021

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Length:  231 pages

Series: Lord Edgington Investigates

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

A little music, a little dancing, a little murder at the spring ball.
England, 1925. After years shut away from the world, former detective Lord Edgington of Cranley Hall plans a grand ball to celebrate his seventy-fifth birthday.

But when someone starts bumping off members of his scheming family, the old man enlists his teenage grandson to help find the killer, before one of them is next.

The mismatched duo must pick the culprit from a gaggle of preening playboys, scatter-brained spinsters and irate inspectors in this Agatha-Christie-style whodunnit that will have you racing to spot the killer.

My Thoughts

I had already read the first Christmas book in the series and wanted to go back and start the first book. It sets the stage for Lord Edgington and his grandson Christopher's relationship and how it begins. Lord Edgington has been a recluse and missing his deceased wife and when he finally decides to live again he wants to celebrate with a ball, putting his grandson in charge of things. Flattered but unsure of himself, Christopher tackles it to the best of his ability and learns to become more independent. He also discovers his talent for sleuthing when two family members are murdered and he and his grandfather work to find out who wants them dead before it happens to all of the family.

I enjoyed the story between the two men as I did in the Christmas book. I also like the author and his back story. So I will continue with the series and plan to read his spinoff, Lord Edgington Investigates Abroad....where they go to exotic locations and murders occur! I also want to start his other series, Marius Quinn Mysteries. Having said that though....this story was a little far fetched for me. I enjoyed it and I like the characters but the plot was kind of over the top to be believable and the murderer's story a little out there too. I can't say a lot because of spoilers but let's just say I wasn't completely sold. So I'm glad I'd read the other one first or I might not have been attached enough to continue. 

I'll just chalk this up to a debut novel and that maybe it just won't be my favorite of the series. I always like to continue and see if I'm still hooked. The covers are gorgeous, the historical cozy vibe is done well, and Lord Edgington clearly has a back story all his own that is slowly being revealed. His children and their offspring are a hot mess and will be great for more stories going forward. Descriptions of the mansion and Christopher's awkwardness are charming and you can't help but love the way Brown depicts him....sweet, innocent, but smart, and hard working. 

This is a great series if you love strong male leads, family loyalty, and the 1920's cozy mystery feel along with the formality of nobility and manners. 

Danger On the Atlantic by Erica Ruth Neubauer (A Jane Wunderly Mystery Book 3)

 

Publication Date:

March 29, 2022

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Length: 304 pages

Series: Jane Wunderly Mysteries

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

For young American widow Jane Wunderly, there are worse fates than adventuring aboard a transatlantic liner with the only man who could change her mind about romance. Unfortunately, her first-class itinerary has an unexpected, and deadly, addition waiting just below deck.

Atlantic Ocean, 1926: Voyaging from Southampton to New York, self-reliant Jane is determined to prove herself a worthy investigator on the stately ship--even awkwardly going undercover as the fashionable wife of her magnetic partner, Mr. Redvers. Few details are known about the rumored German spy the duo have been tasked with identifying among fellow passengers, but new troubles unfold once wealthy newlywed Vanessa Fitz Simmons announces the sudden disappearance of her husband at sea.

Miles Van de Meter, the man Vanessa rushed to marry in Monte Carlo, has allegedly vanished into thin air along with his luggage. Redvers guesses the shifty heiress may be weaving tall tales for fun between flutes of champagne, yet Jane isn't convinced, not after the stunning murder of a trusted acquaintance sends them into uncharted waters. Facing two dangerous mysteries and a boat load of suspects, Jane must navigate a claustrophobic quest for answers before the culprits can slip from her grasp on land, or, worse, ensure she and Redvers never reach their destination.

My Thoughts:

I had been reading this series out of order (not something I like to do anymore) so going back to books 2 and 3 was very helpful and I'm glad I did. Although this definitely wasn't my favorite of the series so far, it does tie up loose ends that book 4 (the one I read first because of the cover and location!) had in it. Jane and Redvers relationship is clearer for me now and I can just go straight to book 5 and pick up from there. This book was a nice addition, just not terribly exciting.

When it opens they are taking the ship to America, where Jane lives, and are posing as husband and wife to find a spy Redvers is looking for. Jane is happy to be sharing time and a room with Redvers although still conflicted about her feelings for him. This being the 1920's and all, it is highly unusual and she is careful about opening up to him, modesty especially important, even though she is a widow. 

The Last Camel Died at Noon by Elizabeth Peters (Amelia Peabody Book 6)

 

Publication Date:

September 1, 1991

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Length:

 448 pages

Series:

Amelia Peabody Mysteries

Book description courtesy of Amazon books:

If Indiana Jones were female, a wife and mother who lived in Victorian times, he would be Amelia Peabody Emerson, an archaeologist whose extraordinary adventures are guaranteed entertainment. This time Amelia, her handsome, fearless husband, Radcliffe, and their precocious 11-year-old son, Ramses, are in the Sudan, searching for archaeologist Willoughby Forth, who disappeared 14 years earlier with his new wife. Rescued in the desert after every camel in their caravan dies, the Emersons are taken to a lost city where ancient Egyptian customs have been carried into modern times. 

There, entangled in two half-brothers' battle for the throne, Amelia and family fight for the freedom of the slave class while ferreting out the fate of Forth and his bride, and arranging to escape with their lives. 

Peters ( The Deeds of the Disturber ), who also writes as Barbara Michaels, laces her usual intricate plotting with Amelia's commonsense approach to hygiene and manners, and coyly delicate references to vigorously enjoyed connubial pleasures. Combining a fierce affection for her family with indefatigable independence, stalwart Amelia proves once again an immensely likable heroine.

My Thoughts:

Having finished the previous book in the series in which the family is in England, I was anxious to get back to their usual pyramid digs in exotic places. This time the Peabodys go to Sudan on an epic adventure. They are looking for a man and his wife who have disappeared into the desert 14 years ago and only have a map and their wits to guide them. Facing heat, lack of water and supplies and dying camels the odds are really against them. When they stumble upon an ancient society that has maintained Egyptian customs they are intrigued but soon realize they are also prisoners. The civilization does not want to be discovered and the Peabodys, along with their son Ramses are now coming to understand this is not just a fun history re-enactment but a kidnapping. 

This was truly a wild ride! I honestly enjoyed the first half of the book more, the part where they are asked to search for the Willoughbys, the clues, and just the amazing authentic details that Peters includes as they prepare for the journey and make their way through the desert. I was so excited to know where the map would lead them and was really invested in what they would find. Add to that Amelia and Radcliffe and Ramses banter and it was very entertaining. 

The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie (Superintendent Battle Book Two) Read Christie Selection April

 

Publication Date:

January 24, 1929

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Length:

 282 pages

Series: Superintendent Battle Mysteries

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

A practical joke goes chillingly, murderously wrong in Queen of Mystery Agatha Christie’s classic detective story, The Seven Dials Mystery.

Gerry Wade had proved himself to be a champion sleeper, so the other houseguests decided to play a practical joke on him. Eight alarm clocks were set to go off, one after the other, starting at 6:30 a.m. But when morning arrived, one clock was missing and the prank then backfired, with tragic consequences.

For Jimmy Thesiger in particular, the words "Seven Dials" were to take on a new and chilling significance.

My Thoughts:

I try to be as honest as I can with my blog and reviews but without being harsh or finding nothing positive to add. I admit this wasn't my favorite Christie story, not even close and I gave up on it twice! But then I decided to stick with it as I'd already invested time in over half the book at that point. I'm glad I did (always glad to finish books!) but it was definitely a strange one. I read that it didn't receive positive reviews when it was released and that is lacked her usual efforts. I guess when you are as prolific a writer as Christie you are bound to have some misses sometimes. 

The "prank" pulled at the very beginning seemed very silly and juvenile to me. But I'm not a practical joker type person and especially noting they do this while someone is sleeping which I find very creepy. Gerry Wade, the victim of the joke is subjected to eight alarm clocks ringing at different intervals and ends up dead (not giving away particulars) so the joke goes horribly wrong. 

There were a lot of characters to keep up with and I just didn't connect with them much so I struggled to pay attention. As the story progressed it got more interesting though and by the time I was ready to quit I was getting intrigued. It changed from just the joke, deaths, and odd secret club mystery to more in depth of a plot involving  scientists and secret formulas. I had to know more. 

"Bundle" the nickname for one of the main characters is actually Lady Eileen Brent and she figures prominently throughout along with her Father and love interest as trying to solve the mystery of the Seven Dials Club, who the members are, and especially who "number 7" is. This is the shady character who might be the key to it all. At this point the story was intriguing and started to have that espionage feel to it that is fun in these types of stories. This occurs about halfway through as does the heavier involvement of Superintendent Battle. The behind it all unfolds very slowly but is a fun reveal and I enjoyed the justice that happens to the murderer. 

While not my favorite, I am glad I stuck with it. Read Christie each month is a reading challenge goal of mine and I try to complete it. I don't always get it done but I give it my best shot! 

The Deeds of the Disturber by Elizabeth Peters (Amelia Peabody Book 5)

 

Publication Date:

January 1, 1988

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Length:

389 pages

Series:

Amelia Peabody Mysteries

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

Can fear kill? There are those who believe so but Amelia Peabody is skeptical. A respected Egyptologist and amateur sleuth, Amelia has foiled felonious schemes from Victoria's England to the Middle East. And she doubts that it was a Nineteenth-Dynasty mummy's curse that caused the death of a night watchman in the British Museum. The corpse was found sprawled in the mummy's shadow, a look of terror frozen on the guard's face. 

What or who killed the unfortunate man is a mystery that seems too intriguingly delicious for Amelia to pass up, especially now that she, her dashing archaeologist husband, Emerson, and their precocious son, Ramses, are back on Britain's shores. 

But a contemporary curse can be as lethal as one centuries old and the foggy London thoroughfares can be as treacherous as the narrow, twisting alleyways of Cairo after dark when a perpetrator of evil deeds sets his murderous sights on his relentless pursuer... Amelia Peabody!

My Thoughts:

I seem to be on an Egypt kick this year! I wanted something to listen to besides Agatha Christie books and thought I'd finish this Amelia Peabody I'd started last winter. I prefer reading her books and am reading the next book in the series alongside listening to this one. It's strange because when I finished book 4 I thought I'd take a break from this series but something drew me back in. I am enjoying catching up with Amelia, Emerson, and Ramses again.

I've read this is the only book in the series that takes place in England. I confess that was disappointing because part of the draw is the exotic locations and the explorations of the Peabodys in the pyramids. But I just know that these books can be complex at times and I needed to make sure I read this one to fill in any gaps Also, I like the characters of Walter and Evelyn (Emerson's brother and his wife) and since they are in England with their brood of children, I knew this might be one of the few that included them going forward.

In addition to the mystery of the guard's death, the Peabody's have been saddled with Amelia's brother James' very odd children. They seem to act innocent but get into all kinds of weird situations with Ramses. I began to actually feel sorry for him early in the book. It's a good peek into Amelia's family and her strange upbringing.

S.S. Murder by Q.Patrick

 

Publication Date:

January 1, 1933

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Length:

223 pages

Series: No

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

It’s homicide on the high seas in this mystery by the Edgar Award winning author who wrote the Peter Duluth Mysteries as Patrick Quentin.

Cub reporter Mary Llewellyn is on a soothing sea cruise to help her recover after a minor operation. Her fellow passengers are pleasant enough, gathering to play a friendly game of bridge to pass the time. But the game turns considerably less so when a wealthy businessman samples a cocktail—and ends up dead at the table.  

The news that someone on board dumped a fatal dose of strychnine into the man’s drink sends a ripple of panic through the voyagers. All too soon, it becomes clear that the murder was not an isolated incident when another passenger is shoved overboard during a storm. 

Determined to stop a murderer, Mary decides to do some snooping above and below deck to get to the truth. If she doesn’t figure out the mystery of the seagoing slayer, she might not make it back to land alive.  

My Thoughts

I had heard of the Peter Duluth mysteries but this book was entirely unknown to me when I saw it. It's a stand alone mystery and so you won't miss anything if you read this one only.  The setting drew me in and the cover. I love all things set on the ocean. When I did a little research this is a combination of several people writing these different books. It was a bit confusing so I consulted with Fantastic Fiction's website to get the authors names all correct with the different books. Anyway, this one written by "Q Patrick" seems to be one of just a handful under this pseudonym. 

It started off strong and interesting. The main character, Mary Llewellyn is writing to her fiance in a journal about the events on the ship. She is recovering from surgery and headed home to be married to Davy, and as two murders unfold and the investigation begins she recounts all that involves her and the passengers she has come to know. I liked the style of writing in the diary format and it made her personality come to life. Throughout the book I didn't tire of that. 

Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen (A Royal Spyness Mystery Book Three )

 

Publication Date: 

July 7, 2009

Genre:

Cozy Mystery

Series: 

A Royal Spyness Mystery

Length:    

306 pages

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

With its posh clientele in the country for the summer, Georgie's housecleaning business has fizzled. So she tries hiring herself out as a dinner-and-theatre companion. But her first client has quite the wrong idea. To avoid further scandal, Georgie's shipped home to Castle Rannoch, where her summer plans include honoring a promise to Her Majesty to keep Castle Rannoch's divorcée houseguest from seducing the Prince of Wales. She's also been coerced into helping Scotland Yard with a top-secret mission - namely keeping an eye on the shooting party at Balmoral and preventing someone from shooting the Prince. And Georgie must manage all this without strangling her odious sister-in-law Fig or spineless brother Binky.

My Thoughts:

I have actually been reading this series in order and I'm pretty proud of myself as I've been known to skip around way too much! This is book three and I'm getting to know the characters better now. Lady Georgie is disheartened by her lack of steady employment. She naively decides to start an "escort" service thinking she will be a dinner companion for men in need of a date. When she is approached by the authorities she agrees it might be best for everyone if she takes a small hiatus and heads to her ancestral castle home in Scotland until things blow over. They also are aware of her knack for solving cases and ask her to keep an eye on who might be trying to target the royal family. Set on hanging at neaby Balmoral, spying, and relaxing with royalty she is instead caught up in murder and mayhem again.

I always enjoy Bowen's wit and this one had plenty. Her two unruly Scottish cousins are entertaining and her Grandfather who is not royal in any way is endearing and simple compared to the stuffy royals and Georgie's brother and sister in law. Her brother, "Binky" who is the current Lord of the manor is laid up in bed with an injury that seems suspicious. Was he deliberately targeted? Is someone trying to pick off the royals at Balmoral? And Wallis Simpson, the American and the young Elizabeth II even make an appearance.

It was a fun read although I honestly found the ending to be a bit much. Too far fetched and the actual reason behind the murders was interesting but not too convincing. I thought the action scenes in the last couple of chapters were over the top and very coincidental too but it all worked out in the end. Bowen did draw on historical rumors for the outcome which was fascinating. I also didn't guess the total "why" behind it all so it was well hidden. It's a fun series and I'll keep reading it going forward. I'm pretty loyal to series books, I just wish I had more time!

Three Act Tragedy by Agatha Christie (Hercule Poirot Book 11) Read Christie Selection March 2025

 

Publication Date: 

1934

Genre:

Mystery

Series: Hercule Poirot Book 11

Length:   279 pages

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

Who wouldn't be pleased to attend a small dinner party being held by Sir Charles Cartwright, once the leading star of the London stage? At his "Crow's Nest" home in Loomouth, Cornwall.

Unfortunately, thirteen guests arrived at the actor's house, most unlucky. One of them was a vicar. It was to be a particularly unlucky evening for the mild-mannered Reverend Stephen Babbington, who choked on his cocktail, went into convulsions and died. But when his martini glass was sent for chemical analysis, there was no trace of poison -- just as Hercule Poirot, also in attendance, had predicted. Even more troubling for the great detective, there was absolutely no motive!

My Thoughts:

This book was the Read Christie March Selection and I listened to it on audiobook.  It was called Murder in Three Acts originally when first published. I and read that this is the only novel where the two characters of Poirot and Satterthwaite work together to solve a murder. 

Sir Charles Cartwright, a famous London actor and friend of Poirot,hosts a dinner party with thirteen guests. During the party, Reverend Stephen Babbington dies after ingesting his cocktail. Although everyone attending suspects foul play, it can't be proven. There is no poison to be found in the drink. Poirot and Satterthwaite, who were attending the party, find this frustratingly odd of course. They cannot work out a motive either. Who would want the Reverend dead? When they hear about another, similar death not long after they are extremely suspicious given that most of the exact same guests attended the second party. Coincidence? Poirot thinks that highly unlikely. 

It was fun to see the challenge presented here. No real motive or means, and most of the guests seemingly harmless bystanders. Poirot eventually interviews the relevant ones and seems to take a liking to one in particular, "Egg" the nickname for Miss Lytton Gore. We see a softer side of him and he also eventually tells us some things about himself personally that are interesting, towards the end, one in particular relating to the way he speaks. I found it all kind of endearing.

I didn't guess the relationship between the two crimes so the mystery was well done. It wasn't the strongest of her books in terms of character development and I wouldn't say I walked away really excited about the plot, but it is still a good read, or listen. Her books usually are a great escape!

 

Death Down the Aisle by Verity Bright (A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery Book 11)

 

Publication Date: August 31, 2022

Genre: Cozy Historical Mystery

Series: Lady Eleanor Swift

Length: 319 pages

Book description courtesy of Goodreads

The society wedding of the decade has the blushing bride, beautiful flowers… and the groom arrested before he can walk down the aisle? Thank goodness Lady Swift is on the guest list!

Lady Eleanor Swift isn’t normally one for grand social occasions, but who can resist a wedding? Especially when it’s her old friend, Constance Grainger, marrying the most eligible bachelor in town, Lord Peregrine Davencourt. Eleanor is taking Gladstone the bulldog as her plus one, with a smart new bowtie to match her bridesmaid’s dress.

But the big day is ruined when the groom is arrested for murder before he makes it to the altar. In a baffling twist, it turns out he was already engaged to the lovely Daisy Balforth, who has been found dead at the local inn with Lord Davencourt kneeling over her. The gossip pages will have a field day!

The distraught bride-to-be asks Eleanor to clear her fiancé’s name, as she’s certain he wouldn’t hurt a fly. With help from handsome Detective Seldon, Eleanor examines the evidence. But she’s barely had time to write down her suspect list before Constance’s father is set upon by a bearded stranger on the golf course. Clearly there is more to this story than Eleanor first thought, but can she catch the real killer before the wedding turns into her wake?

My Thoughts:

I wasn't really looking forward to this particular book as much as the others in the series because it takes place in England and I love the books that have Eleanor visiting other locations. So I kind of stalled getting on with reading it. I'm glad I finally did though because it turned out to be really cute and also moved Eleanor and Hugh's relationship a little further. I'd probably be a bit lost if I'd skipped it! So I'm pleasantly surprised and had fun reading it.

In this story, Eleanor is preparing to be a bridesmaid in her dear friend Constance's wedding. But before she can walk down the aisle her fiance, Lord Peregrine Davencourt is accused of murdering his former love interest, Daisy. It's a race against time to clear his name, if he is even innocent, and save the wedding. Peregrine insists he's not guilty and Constance believes him. Eleanor sets out with her butler Clifford and Detective Hugh Seldon to try to help. 

It didn't sound all that exciting when I started but this book held my interest well. I just need cozies to be authentic to the times, have some red herrings to navigate, and wrap things up neatly. This one did just that and included a cast of characters wtih colorful and shady backgrounds. There was the ladies society also of which Eleanor is a part of promoting women police officers (an interesting topic for the time) and the attempt to throw us off with the backstory of a town decimated by the war. I enjoyed the addition of a little boy, Bertie, who is clearly autistic but since at that time people were less aware of it, is presented as an intense, loveable child who ultimately helps with solving the murders in his own unique way.

The person responsible for the murders and mayhem was hidden well until the end and I enjoyed how they were revealed. It was exciting and throughout the book I kept changing my mind as each new clue was revealed. All in all an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to the next adventure in the series.

Murder at Wedgefield Manor by Erica Ruth Neubauer (Book Two: A Jane Wunderly Mystery)

 

Publication Date:  March 31, 2021

Genre: Cozy Historical Mystery

Series: Jane Wunderly

Length: 304 pages

Book Description (GoodReads):

In the wake of World War I, Jane Wunderly- a thoroughly modern young American widow-is traveling abroad, enjoying the hospitality of an English lord and a perfectly proper manor house, until murder makes an unwelcome appearance . . . 

England, 1926: Wedgefield Manor, deep in the tranquil Essex countryside, provides a welcome rest stop for Jane and her matchmaking Aunt Millie before their return to America. While Millie spends time with her long-lost daughter, Lillian, and their host, Lord Hughes, Jane fills the hours devouring mystery novels and taking flying lessons-much to Millie's disapproval. 

But any danger in the air is eclipsed by tragedy on the ground when one of the estate's mechanics, Air Force veteran Simon Marshall, is killed in a motorcar collision. The sliced brake cables prove this was no accident, yet was the intended victim someone other than Simon? The house is full of suspects-visiting relations, secretive servants, strangers prowling the grounds at night-and also full of targets. 

The enigmatic Mr. Redvers, who helped Jane solve a murder in Egypt, arrives on the scene to once more offer his assistance. It seems that everyone at Wedgefield wants Jane to help protect the Hughes family. But while she searches for answers, is she overlooking a killer hiding in plain sight?

My Thoughts:

I have read books one and four in this series and went back to see how book two unfolds. It was good that I did because the relationship between Jane and her love interest, Redvers, really blossoms in this book. The plot wasn't terribly involved and I felt the narration was a little forced in that there weren't enough red herrings and suspects as well as crimes to warrant some of the lengthy musings of Jane. It also didn't take place in an exotic location like the other books, which is the appeal of this series. But I still enjoyed the story.

Lord Hughes, their host at Wedgefield Manor, is suspected of cutting the brakes on his handyman's car, which results in his death.  Jane just doesn't buy it. She smells a rat elsewhere but has a hard time convincing the local inspector. She and her fiance set out to find another alternative, and in the midst of investigating consider his daughter, niece, and the other few guests and staff of the mansion. Most of the book is your typical cozy mystery, them searching for clues, wondering who could be guilty, and in the end wrapping things up neatly. 

I consider this book a transition to the next book three more than an extra exciting sequel. But I wouldn't skip it if you want to continue with this series as I do. It fills in gaps about the characters and I think Neubauer has done a good job making me care about them. I am really looking forward to book three, Danger On the Atlantic, in which Jane and Redvers travel back to her home in America. Then the other books take place in different countries again. It should be a fun time!

A Body in the Villa by Isabella Bassett (Lady Caroline Murder Mysteries Book 3)

 

Publication Date: November 16, 2022

Genre: Historical Cozy Mystery

Series: Lady Caroline Murder Mysteries

Length: 190 pages

Book Description (GoodReads):

Switzerland, 1925

A rare bird is nesting in the lush summer meadows of the Swiss Alps, and the grizzled members of Uncle Albert’s Royal Society for Natural History Appreciation travel en masse to get a closer look.

The fact that they will be encamped at an opulent villa, coupled with the promise of a midsummer party, persuades his niece, and unenthusiastic secretary, Lady Caroline, to follow suit.

As the champagne flows, and tales of rare birds grow taller, a killer makes a bold move. One of the more risque guests is strangled with her own elaborate dress. When a rakish rogue, a charm-the-birds-out-of-the-trees kind of man, is picked off next, the police speculate that someone is stalking the more exotic specimens of this country house party.

Dismissing this bird-brain idea, Lady Caroline suspects instead that a cunning killer is using the party to feather their nest. Ready as ever for a good scavenger hunt, she follows the clues to the bad egg spoiling all the fun.

My Thoughts:

This is book three in the series. I have read books one, two and five already. I know I'm strange the way I skip around and I'm honestly trying not to do that anymore but it's hard. Sometimes a series book down the line looks good and I just don't want to wait! But it creates spoilers and unanswered questions too. So that bugs me. I can't win, lol.

Lady Caroline and her Uncle Albert have come to the Swiss Alps and the Royal Society for Natural History Appreciation, to search for a special bird. She is his secretary, unusual for the time as the others are male, but determined to do her job well while also looking out for her elderly beloved Uncle. While staying at a beautiful villa, Caroline becomes involved in three deaths, all of which seem unrelated until she starts to dig into the past of the victims. 

The story centers around the local hippie commune which seems to house a strange, eclectic group of people who all have their own secrets. Caroline is sure some of the answers to the deaths lie within but she also is suspicious of one of the members of the royal society. Along with her wacky friend, Poppy, who arrives and offers to help, they investigate and have some shenanigans along the way. 

I enjoyed the book but not as much as the one set in Cairo. I love how Bassett picks exotic locations and the commune made the story even more interesting. I wish Caroline and James, her love interest had had more interaction but overall the story was cute and I'm happy to move on to the next one in the series soon.