A Christmas Guide to Family and Murder - A Review

 Review

A CHRISTMAS GUIDE TO FAMILY AND MURDER by Dianne Freeman
The Ninth Countess of Harleigh Mystery 

 

It's Christmastime and Frances Hazelton, formerly the Countess of Harleigh, is delighting in the mild London weather. Her daughter and ward, however, have snow on their minds and even her husband, George, is keen to spend Christmas at his sister Fiona's home in the country where there's sure to be snow. While she'd prefer to stay in London enjoying the Christmas concert at Royal Albert Hall, Frances is persuaded and the whole family heads to Hadley Grange. However, instead of snow, they're met with a massive rainstorm on their first night. George and Fiona's husband, Robert, leave the next day to help unblock the roads. Deciding to get some fresh air Frances, Fiona, and the children decide to take a ramble only to discover a dead body in the fields. With no coroner, he's the dead body, no law enforcement or magistrate in town, all dealing with the storm damage, it will be up to Frances to determine if she needs to solve another murder!

 

What makes A CHRISTMAS GUIDE TO FAMILY AND MURDER so different from other books in the series is that Frances is pretty much on her own when it comes to solving a murder. While she has Fiona and Hetty to bounce ideas off of, and even has a little help from the children, they aren't as well versed in investigations as her husband or Inspector Delaney. Although she decries of solving this perplexing murder, she's fully capable. I was laughing when George finally returned and was ready to assist, it was Frances taking the lead.

 

I love how the whole family got involved and how the children turned a holiday writing assignment into writing a murder mystery! As the title implies, family plays a huge role in the ninth Countess of Harleigh Mystery. Parenting, marriage, and dealing with all manner of relatives combine to move the story along, provide motives, and a solution to the crime.

 

A perplexing murder in the country makes A CHRISTMAS GUIDE TO FAMILY AND MURDER an intriguing Christmas who-dun-it. I absolutely love this series and truly enjoyed this latest outing. I look forward to the next one! 

Currently Reading...

I  just started reading A Christmas Guide to Family and Murder by Dianne Freeman. This book is the ninth in the Countess of Harleigh Mystery series and was released yesterday!

It's Christmastime and Frances Hazelton, formerly the Countess of Harleigh, is delighting in the mild London weather. Her daughter and ward, however, have snow on their minds and even her husband, George, is keen to spend Christmas at his sister Fiona's home in the country where there's sure to be snow. While she'd prefer to stay in London enjoying the Christmas concert at Royal Albert Hall, Frances is persuaded and the whole family heads to Hadley Grange. However, instead of snow, they're met with a massive rainstorm on their first night. George and Fiona's husband, Robert, leave the next day to help unblock the roads. Deciding to get some fresh air Frances, Fiona, and the children decide to take a ramble only to discover a dead body in the fields. With no coroner, he's the dead body, no law enforcement or magistrate in town, all dealing with the storm damage, it will be up to Frances to determine if she needs to solve another murder!

Stolen Brilliance - A Review

 Review

STOLEN BRILLIANCE by Michael G. Colburn
The First Lady Black Mystery 

Born is poverty in Victorian England Edie Black's existence was bleak. While being rescued from the streets saved her life it led to the world or organized crime. Traveling from England to South America, Africa, and Australia Edie is in charge of a high stakes con. But before the voyage ends, the con crumbles. With multiple players and deception everywhere Edie knows that Benji is the only person she can trust. When her boss is forced into hiding and Benji is implicated in a diamond heist Edie knows it's up to her to discover who really stole the diamonds to save, not only Benji, but herself!  

I really enjoyed a visit to the underside, albeit somewhat fancy underside, of Victorian England in the first Lady Black Mystery. Lady gangs, daring cons, and unique characters, made all the more intriguing as the story is based on real events and many of the characters truly existed.

The characters are the backbone of the story and make a compelling story even more so. From street urchins like Trunk and many of the boys to Specs, Mrs. Hill, and the despicable Henderson to Jack and Johnny all are fascinating, each with a story to tell. Edie Black is the most compelling of the characters. With determination, fortitude, and a little luck she manages to reinvent herself and succeed in the harsh world of Victorian England. Traveling to the furthest reaches of the British Empire and points in between Edie manages to cultivate a dangerous career and make the most of it.

Adventure, excitement, and so many twists and turns your head may spin STOLEN BRILLIANCE is an exciting tale of loyalty, deception, and love. 

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Stolen Brilliance by Michael G. Colburn. This book is the first in the Lady Black Mystery series.

Born is poverty in Victorian England Edie Black's existence was bleak. While being rescued from the streets saved her life it led to the world or organized crime. Traveling from England to South America, Africa, and Australia Edie is in charge of a high stakes con. But before the voyage ends, the con crumbles. With multiple players and deception everywhere Edie knows that Benji is the only person she can trust. When her boss is forced into hiding and Benji is implicated in a diamond heist Edie knows it's up to her to discover who really stole the diamonds to save, not only Benji, but herself! 

Murder in Matrimony - A Review & Giveaway

 Review

MURDER IN MATRIMONY by Mary Winters
The Fourth Lady of Letters Mystery

Always one to go her own fun loving way Margaret Scott is a bit of a troublemaker and not one for protocol or niceties, as her elder sister Lady Amelia Amesbury can attest. It still comes as a shock when Madge announces that she and Captain Fitz are to be wed and that the wedding is to be that very month! Now Amelia will have to perform miracles, with the help of her none too pleased Aunt Tabitha, to arrange a wedding in time. In addition to arranging everything for the nuptials Amelia has something else to deal with. A reader of her Lady Agony column says they know her true identity and is blackmailing her. At least she has the friendship of her vicar, Mr. Cross. But the following day his curate comes rushes to her home to tell her that Mr. Cross has been killed. While the police declare it's a robbery gone bad, Amelia believes it's murder. But how does the newspaper clipping he sent her fit in? Amelia will have to puzzle the pieces together all while planning a wedding and dealing with a blackmailer. Fortunately, she has her good friends to help her.

I absolutely love this series and MURDER IN MATRIMONY may be my favorite entry thus far. We have humor, romance, and a brilliantly confounding mystery. I love that Amelia and Simon are finally admitting their feelings for each other. And darn Maude's timing, although things happily worked out in the end. It was such fun having Amelia's family come to London. Uncle Henry with his drink and Aunt Gert with her duck had me grinning! I also like Amelia's relationship with Lord Drake and was happy to see more of Isaac Jakeman.

I was distressed when I discovered that Mr. Cross was our murder victim. I found him to be a wise and caring man and a good person to whom Amelia could speak honestly about anything and everything. As to his replacement...ugh. The church will be much poorer. I enjoyed how his murder was just the tip of the iceberg and Amelia had to solve a variety of other mysteries to get to the bottom of his death. I also appreciated Amelia's visits to the East End, witnessing how the poorer people actually lived. It changed her and it was nice to see her grow. I also really like seeing her friendships grow even stronger with one unlikely person coming to the fore.

Love, loyalty, and family combine in a cracking good mystery making MURDER IN MATRIMONY one of my favorite, if not most favorite read of the year. 

********************************************************************* 

 Murder in Matrimony (A Lady of Letters Mystery) by Mary Winters

About Murder in Matrimony

Murder in Matrimony (A Lady of Letters Mystery)
Historical Cozy Mystery 4th in Series
Setting - London, 1860
Publisher: ‎ Severn House
Publication Date: ‎ October 7, 2025
Hardcover Print Length: ‎ 240 pages
Digital Print Length: ‎ 248 pages

Countess-turned-advice columnist Amelia Amesbury has a wedding to plan alongside a new murder in this charmingly deadly historical mystery. Countess Amelia Amesbury has her work cut out. As well as balancing her alter ego—secret advice columnist, Lady Agony—and the blackmailer threatening to reveal her real identity, her sister has also announced she’s getting married. It’s joyous news, but places all the planning for a high society wedding firmly at Amelia’s door. Luckily, her good friend and local vicar Mr. Cross has agreed to the expedited nuptials, so that’s one less thing to worry about. Until Cross is found dead at the church. Now in between bridal arrangements, Amelia must follow the clues Mr. Cross left behind. Clearly, he’d made some enemies during his parishioner work, as strange mishaps begin to occur wherever Amelia goes. But when the danger becomes all too real, Amelia must rely on her friends and the handsome Simon Bainbridge to help solve the murder, save the wedding, and Amelia’s life too . . . Perfect for fans of witty historical mystery and Regency romances with a similar feel to Verity Bright and T.E. Kinsey.

About Mary Winters

 

Mary Winters is the Edgar Award-nominated author of the Lady of Letters historical mystery series. Book one, Murder in Postscript, was a finalist for the Mary Higgins Clark Award. Mary is also the author of two cozy mystery series and writes short fiction. Her stories have appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine and Black Cat Weekly. When she’s not writing, she’s teaching, reading, or spending time with her family. She lives with her husband, daughters, and spoiled pets in the Midwest. Find out more about Mary at MaryWintersAuthor.com.

Author Links: 

Website http://www.Marywintersauthor.com  

Blog http://www.Marywintersauthor.com/blog  

Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/marywintersauthor  

Instagram http://www.Instagram.com/marywintersauthor  

Purchase Links Amaz0n Barnes & Noble Bookshop  

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading Murder in Matrimony by Mary Winters. This is the fourth book in the Lady Of Letters Mystery series and was released last week.

Always one to go her own fun loving way Margaret Scott is a bit of a troublemaker and not one for protocol or niceties, as her elder sister Lady Amelia Amesbury can attest. It still comes as a shock when Madge announces that she and Captain Fitz are to be wed and that the wedding is to be that very month! Now Amelia will have to perform miracles, with the help of her none too pleased Aunt Tabitha, to arrange a wedding in time. In addition to arranging everything for the nuptials Amelia has something else to deal with. A reader of her Lady Agony column says they know her true identity and is blackmailing her. At least she has the friendship of her vicar, Mr. Cross. But the following day his curate comes rushes to her home to tell her that Mr. Cross has been killed. While the police declare it's a robbery gone bad, Amelia believes it's murder. But how does the newspaper clipping he sent her fit in? Amelia will have to puzzle the pieces together all while planning a wedding and dealing with a blackmailer. Fortunately, she has her good friends to help her.

A Death on Corfu - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a book that's been waiting patiently on my TBR pile. A Death on Corfu by Emily Sullivan is the first book in the Minnie Harper Mystery series and was released at the end of April this year.

Blurb: 

Minnie Harper isn’t used to putting herself first. Not after she moved away from England only to be left raising two children alone on the Greek Island of Corfu following her husband’s unexpected death. But with her daughter begging to be sent to school abroad and her son grasping at his own independence, Minnie realizes she must prepare for the next stage of her life.

When famous mystery author Stephen Dorian settles into a neighboring villa to escape writer’s block and hidden scandals, she is intrigued at first by the handsome Londoner—until he proves to be nothing more than a boorish grump. Determined to avoid the man as much as possible, Minnie is shocked when he offers her a well-paid job as his typist. She isn’t in a position to turn down work, even from a man she has sworn to hate.

But before Minnie can fully regret her decision to take the job, she makes a horrifying discovery that changes everything. A young maid has been murdered, and local authorities aren’t moving fast enough to bring justice to the terrible crime. Unwilling to allow the death to fade into obscurity like the stories of so many other women deemed unworthy by society, Minnie launches an investigation of her own—and reluctantly accepts Stephen’s help. As she embarks on a dangerous search for answers that reveals another side of Corfu, unsettling questions take shape about her employer-turned-confidant and the culprit who just might do whatever it takes to strike again . . .

A Daughter's Guide to Mothers and Murder - A Review

Review

 

 

A DAUGHTER'S GUIDE TO MOTHERS AND MURDER 

By Dianne Freeman

The Eighth Countess of Harleigh Mystery

 

Frances Hazelton and her husband, George, are enjoying the tail end of their honeymoon in Paris before heading home to London. Alicia Stoke-Whitney also happens to be in town and asks Frances for help. An American whose previous wife was murdered has set his sights on her daughter. The killer was never caught, is it possible he killed her? Before Frances can even start to look into the matter, new evidence has come to light and the Hazleton's friend, Inspector Cadieux, has asked for their assistance. None other than actress Sarah Bernherdt has become a suspect and none of the French gendarme want to risk being reviled worldwide should she be arrested. Happy to be investigating once more the Hazeltons will use their social contacts and deductive powers to follow the trail, wherever it may lead.

 

I'm always delighted when another Countess of Harleigh Mystery is released as I know I will be in for an entertaining, well plotted, intriguing mystery filled with wonderful characters. This eighth entry in the series deals with relationships, scandals, and the special bond between mothers and daughters. There are several mother daughter duos here and I'm happily surprised in the change in Frances' mother and pleased with her help in the investigation. I truly appreciate how A DAUGHTER'S GUIDE TO MOTHERS AND MURDER dealt with certain domestic issues that are as timely now as they were then. 

 

I love the investigation, how Frances and George work together as well as with the police. I also grin at how Frances throws herself headlong in, no matter the danger. The mystery was complex, especially as the murder occurred some months prior, with a variety of suspects. Adding the incomparable Sarah Bernhardt to the mix was a fun choice.

 

A DAUGHTER'S GUIDE TO MOTHERS AND MURDER shows the strength of a mother's love in a myriad of circumstances while providing an intriguing and thought provoking mystery.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading A Daughter's Guide to Mothers and Murder by Dianne Freeman. This book is the eighth in the Countess of Harleigh Mystery series and was released yesterday.

Frances Hazelton and her husband, George, are enjoying the tail end of their honeymoon in Paris before heading home to London. Alicia Stoke-Whitney also happens to be in town and asks Frances for help. An American whose previous wife was murdered has set his sights on her daughter. The killer was never caught, is it possible he killed her? Before Frances can even start to look into the matter, new evidence has come to light and the Hazleton's friend, Inspector Cadieux, has asked for their assistance. None other than actress Sarah Bernherdt has become a suspect and none of the French gendarme want to risk being reviled worldwide should she be arrested. Happy to be investigating once more the Hazeltons will use their social contacts and deductive powers to follow the trail, wherever it may lead.

Murder in Season - A Review & Giveaway

 Review

MURDER IN SEASON by Mary Winters
The Third Lady of Letters Mystery

Amelia, Lady Amesbury, is thrilled when her mother and younger sister Margaret come to London for an unexpected visit. Unfortunately, this isn't purely a social call. Margaret caused a bit of a scandal in Mells and has come to stay for the Season. While Aunt Tabitha isn't thrilled with the situation, or the rough and tumble Madge, Amelia is happy to spend time with her fun loving sister and decides to host a ball which will be both a debut for Madge and Amesbury Manor's first ball since Amelia has come out of mourning. However, when a guest falls ill after a verbal altercation with Madge and later dies, the detective in charge is certain that Madge is a murderer and will do whatever he can to find her guilty! Amelia will leave no stone unturned as she simultaneously searches for the real killer and the jewel thief who is plaguing Mayfair!

A tomboy sister from the country having her first London Season? You know that's a recipe for disaster...and a lot of laughs. Not only do I love Madge and her carefree attitude I love how Amelia both loosens up, and tries to reign her sister in...at least a little. As always, I really enjoy the letters to Lady Agony and Amelia's replies. They not only correspond to the plot, but give some housekeeping tips of the day. I love the addition of a notorious fence and hope we see more of him in future installments.

There is so much to love about the third Lady of Letters Mystery. A finely crafted mystery with well developed characters provides the backbone, but the subplot of Amelia's relationship with Simon is just as compelling. Men can be so vexing!

Scandals, power struggles, and a vendetta inlaid with charm, humor and romance combine to make MURDER IN SEASON a thoroughly delightful Victorian mystery.

********************************************************************** 

Murder in Season (A Lady of Letters Mystery) by Mary Winters

About Murder in Season

Murder in Season (A Lady of Letters Mystery)
Historical Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series
Setting - London, 1860
Publisher: ‎ Severn House; Main edition (December 3, 2024)
Hardcover: ‎ 240 pages

Join Countess turned advice columnist Amelia Amesbury as she tries to juggle a new Season and a new murder in this charmingly deadly historical mystery.

"A beautiful debutante, a wealthy widow, and a dead would-be baron. What could be more exciting?"

Countess by day, secret advice columnist by night, Amelia Amesbury has life happily balanced on a quill's edge . . . until her sister Margaret shows up in London under a blanket of scandal and Amelia is catapulted out of mourning and into the ton's unforgiving Season.

However Madge's Season debut is marred by a rather inconvenient death at the dining table as the infamous Mr Radcliffe takes ill and is later confirmed dead by poisoning. With Madge being the last person to have cross words with the soon-to-be baron, the ton's gossip mill - and the police - are looking to pin the murder on her.

Adding to the ton's troubles is a jewellery thief targeting the most lavish of Society's houses. Is the murderer and the thief one in the same? It falls to Amelia once again to uncover the secrets buried deep within the pages before her sister goes down for the crimes.

Perfect for fans of witty historical mystery and Regency romances with a similar feel to Verity Bright and T.E. Kinsey.

About Mary Winters

 

Mary Winters is the Edgar Award-nominated author of the Lady of Letters historical mystery series. Book one, Murder in Postscript, was a finalist for the Mary Higgins Clark Award. Mary is also the author of two cozy mystery series and writes short fiction. Three of her short stories have appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine. When she’s not writing, she’s teaching, reading, or spending time with her family. She lives with her husband, daughters, and spoiled pets in the Midwest. Find out more about Mary at MaryWintersAuthor.com.  

Author Links: 

Website http://www.Marywintersauthor.com  

Blog http://www.Marywintersauthor.com/blog  

Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/marywintersauthor  

Instagram http://www.Instagram.com/marywintersauthor  

Purchase Links Amazon Barnes & Noble Bookshop 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Murder at Mistlethwaite Manor - An Interview, Review, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome AJ Skelly to Cozy Up With Kathy today. AJ's latest release, MURDER AT MISTLETHWAITE MANOR was released June 26, 2024.

Kathy: MURDER AT MISTLETHWAITE MANOR finds Lady Emma Grace Hastings at the most auspicious Christmas party of the season. Have you ever been invited to an exclusive event?

AJS: I've definitely been invited to some super cool author events, but definitely nothing as auspicious as The Event of the entire season as Emma Grace is.


Kathy: The party involves a game with a large cash prize, but in order to win secrets much be exposed. If you were involved in such a game, would that give you cause to worry?

AJS: You know, I don't know that I'd be particularly concerned. I'm a fairly boring person, and while I've made plenty of mistakes, my general philosophy is to own up to those mistakes, ask forgiveness for them from those I've wronged, and move on. Therefore, most of my shameful moments are already out in the open. Shame doesn't have nearly such a stranglehold once the shame is exposed.


Kathy: I love Christmastime and enjoy reading books set during this holiday. What makes writing during this season special and why choose this time of your for this mystery?

AJS: I've always wanted to write a Christmas book. Last year at Christmas, we all got sick, and all our plans got cancelled! I was so sad! I think to combat the sadness, I wrote. And then the story really took hold. I wrote the first draft of MURDER AT MISTLETHWAITE MANOR in thirteen days. It was a whirlwind!


Kathy: What first drew you to historical mysteries?

AJS: I have ALWAYS loved history, and so it wasn't a great stretch for me to jump into it. I've also always loved mysteries. I read every Mandy Mystery and Nancy Drew my library had growing up! Although, can I just say that planning, plotting, and writing a mystery is a lot harder than reading one.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

AJS: My first series is actually paranormal romance (The Wolves of Rock Falls). I have a soft spot for werewolves. There are elements of mystery in those, but not quite as full-fledged mystery as Mistlethwaite. I've also written a straight fantasy, OF FLAME & FROST, and have another murder mystery, A LETHAL ENGAGEMENT, coming out next spring.

Kathy: Tell us about your series.

AJS: My first series, The Wolves of Rock Falls, was written in part for my high school students. I could not find appropriate paranormal romance for them beyond the Twilight series, so I wrote a series for them. Writing is an escape for me as well, so it's one way I process stress. It's beautifully cathartic. In the Rock Falls books, each book follows one couple in a larger cast. Each book sees the whole cast. They're interconnected stand alones, but are best enjoyed read in order.

Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

AJS: I think this is like asking to pick a favorite child...

Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

AJS: My high school students inspired the first series, but now, I write the stories that come to me that are the most exciting to my brain.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

AJS: I think I've wanted to be a published author since I was about three. I've been very blessed that my books have been picked up and that I've had the publishing experience.

Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

AJS: Oh my heavens, what a question! I think I'd have to invite C. S. Lewis, Karen Hancock, Shakespeare, and maybe Tolkien.

Kathy: What are you currently reading?
AJS: I just started reading XOXO by Axie Oh.

Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?
AJS: So obviously, I love writing. But I also enjoy reading just as much, and I also make jewelry. I have ferocious scar tissue, to the point that I can't get my ears pierced. Because I couldn't find clip on earrings I liked as a teenager, I just started making my own. And the hobby stuck.

Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

AJS: Sweet cream coffee creamer, basil pesto, pasta, and potatoes. What a combo, right?

Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

AJS: I do! I actually have another murder mystery, A LETHAL ENGAGEMENT, which is another Victorian murder mystery, releasing next spring with Crooked Lane Books! It's a delicious closed loop murder mystery aboard an airship as our American heiress protagonist flies across the Atlantic to meet with her newly affianced family. But things go rather horribly awry...

Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?
AJS: I love it all. Creating the stories, writing the stories, I don't even mind editing over much. The whole process is a beautiful thing.

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Review

MURDER AT MISTLETHWAITE MANOR

By AJ Skelly

 

Lady Emma Grace Hastings is thrilled. She's received a coveted invitation to a Christmas party at Mistlethwaite Manor. The exclusive event also involves a game with the winner receiving a 10,000 pound prize! But delight turns to horror when she discovers the identity of her host, and the fact that the game requires that sordid secrets be revealed. Worried about her own past Emma Grace also has to deal with the secrets of her fellow guests, which include the man she hopes to marry as well as her former fiancé. Before the night ends a dead body is discovered. As a winter storm rages outside Emma Grace will have to keep her wits about her even as the body count increases. Will she be able to survive or will hers be the next body to be found?

 
A dream party turns into a nightmare for our protagonist Lady Emma Grace. She makes an innocent foil to pretty much everybody else at the party. While she is innocent, she also possesses a good mind which helps her work through the murderous events. It’s interesting to follow her mind, and her heart, as she considers the actions of her would be fiancé to that of her former fiancé. As for the other guests…and the host…what a group! For the most part people you’d prefer never to engage with, all making for great suspects. And more than one big surprise awaits as the evening continues.

Depravity and devious machinations make for a complex mystery fraught with tension. I really enjoyed this thrilling mystery. Skillfully blending historical ambiance and romance this suspenseful mystery with periodic horrific events kept me reading well past my bedtime. I commiserated with Emma Grace, hoping she’d come to the same conclusion as I as to her future happiness and appreciated that she didn’t take anything for granted.

 

While MURDER AT MISTLETHWAITE MANOR is described as a historical cozy mystery, I would say that it is a traditional mystery and not a cozy. While the violence does occur offstage its descriptions are quite vivid. The resulting verisimilitude makes for exciting reading and certainly ups the stakes…and danger level. In addition to our amateur sleuths, it is cozy like in that in the end justice is meted out. We also get the happy ending found in romance novels; an ending that certainly made me smile!

Dastardly characters and evil acts committed in a snowbound secluded manor create a powder keg that is MURDER AT MISTLETHWAITE MANOR. 

 

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Murder at Mistlethwaite Manor by AJ Skelly

About Murder at Mistlethwaite Manor

Murder at Mistlethwaite Manor
Historical Cozy Mystery
Setting – Mistlethwaite Manor, Christmastime, in 1895 England
Publisher: ‎ Quill & Flame Publishing House (June 26, 2024)
Hardcover: ‎ 252 pages

Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None meets The Gilded Age in this delicious, suspenseful murder mystery.

When Lady Emma Grace Hastings receives a much-coveted invitation to the most auspicious Christmas party of the season—one that comes with a 10,000 pound prize for the winner of a mysterious game—she cannot believe her good fortune.

But as the guests are assembled at Mistlethwaite Manor, the chilling intent of the game is revealed. Each guest has cause for alarm, because all of them have secrets, and to win the prize money, those secrets must be exposed.

Things take a sinister turn when Emma Grace finds herself caught between her old love and her soon-to-be betrothed. Suspicions abound, and old wounds are opened. The dead body in the study does not help. Nor does the raging winter storm that prevents escape from the manor. Emma Grace must battle her heart, use her wits, and put her sleuthing skills to the test to survive the weekend alive.

Because there is a murderer among them.

And no one with secrets is safe.

About AJ Skelly

 

AJ Skelly is an author, reader, and lover of all things fantasy, mystery, and fairy-tale-romance. And werewolves. She has a serious soft spot for them. As an avid life-long reader and a former high school English teacher, she’s always been fascinated with the written word. She lives with her husband, children, and many imaginary friends who often find their way into her stories. They all drink copious amounts of tea together and stay up reading far later than they should. You can read more of her short stories at www.ajskelly.com.  

Author Links: 

Website www.ajskelly.com  

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/a.j.skelly/  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/aj.skelly.71/  

Purchase Links - Amazon - B&N - Bookshop.org -

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading Murder at Mistlethwaite Manor by A. J. Skelly.  

Lady Emma Grace Hastings is thrilled. She's received a coveted invitation to a Christmas party at Mistlethwaite Manor. The exclusive event also involves a game with the winner receiving a 10,000 pound prize! But delight turns to horror when she discovers the identity of her host, and the fact that the game requires that sordid secrets be revealed. Worried about her own past Emma Grace also has to deal with the secrets of her fellow guests, which include the man she hopes to marry as well as her former fiance. Before the night ends a dead body is discovered. As a winter storm rages outside Emma Grace will have to keep her wits about her even as the body count increases. Will she be able to survive or will hers be the next body to be found?

An Art Lover's Guide to Paris and Murder - A Review

 Review

AN ART LOVER'S GUIDE TO PARIS AND MURDER by Dianne Freeman
The Seventh Countess of Harleigh Mystery

George Hazleton has always had a special fondness for his unconventional Aunt Julia, so when she asks him to visit her in Paris regarding a private matter he can't say no. He also can't say no to his wife Frances, formerly the Countess of Harleigh who insists she accompany him. They decide to make the trip a holiday and include a visit to the Paris Exhibition as well as investigate the suspicious death of the artist Paul Ducasse on behalf of Aunt Julia. But when they meet with her, she's reluctant to talk about the matter and eventually tells them she was mistaken and there's nothing to look into. When an accident turns out to be murder George and Frances will have to uncover the many secrets of Julia's life in order to catch a killer!

The seventh Countess of Harleigh Mystery finds our intrepid heroine in Paris for a honeymoon-cum-family trip to the Paris Exhibition, with a little sleuthing beforehand. If Frances and George thought dealing with an artistic crowd and a smart police detective could be challenging, not to mention solving two murders, they also have to deal with a teenaged girl!

I absolutely love Frances, the Countess of Harleigh, though now she's simply Mrs. Hazleton. I'm glad that marriage has not diminished her spunk, nor her joie de vivre. She's smart and competitive, I relish the times she uncovers things before George, let alone the police. I also enjoyed getting a glimpse of the Paris Exhibition with its moving sidewalks and vast crowds as well as seeing some of the water holes favored by artists of the time. 

A delightful holiday adventure AN ART LOVER'S GUIDE TO PARIS AND MURDER incorporates art and family secrets into an entertaining Parisian murder mystery.

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading An Art Lover's Guide to Paris and Murder by Dianne Freeman. This book is the seventh in the Countess of Harleigh Mystery series and will be released June 25, 2024.

George Hazleton has always had a special fondness for his unconventional Aunt Julia, so when she asks him to visit her in Paris regarding a private matter he can't say no. He also can't say no to his wife Frances, formerly the Countess of Harleigh who insists she accompany him. They can make the trip a holiday and include a visit to the Paris Exhibition as well as investigate the suspicious death of the artist Paul Ducasse on behalf of Aunt Julia. But when they meet with her, she's reluctant to talk about the matter and eventually tells them, she was mistaken and there's nothing to look into. When an accident turns out to be murder George and Frances will have to uncover the many secrets of Julia's life in order to catch a killer!

Murder in Masquerade - A Review & Giveaway

 Review

MURDER IN MASQUERADE by Mary Winters
The Second Lady of Letters Mystery 

 

Concerned that his sister is encouraging the affections of a rogue and scoundrel Simon Bainbridge persuades Amelia, Lady Amesbury, to accompany him to the opera in order to keep an eye on Marielle. Upon meeting the man in question, Amelia finds him charming, although with an apparent eye for the ladies, and not just Marielle. Walking to their carriage after the performance Amelia stumbles upon a body, literally. George Davies has been stabbed to death! Amelia is keen to solve another murder as well as mend the rift between the siblings, but will she be successful?

Amelia is the most delightful protagonist. She's caring, funny, and oh so competitive! She and Lady Tabitha had me chuckling at their competitive nature and skill at various sports. I will never challenge these ladies at croquet! But the laughs, of which there are many, are only a part of this wonderful book and series. 

 

I love how Amelia is coming to grips with her new found status. Now that her mourning period is over, she's able to rejoin society, learn to be a mum to a tween daughter, and perhaps pursue a new love. One of her favorite tasks, and mine, is her secret job as Lady Agony. I particularly love how the letters she receives mirror the action of the mystery and her life. I enjoy how a letter proceeds each chapter.

 

The mystery was exhilarating, as were the scrapes Amelia found herself in. Running into a tree? The twists and turns kept me enthralled and even when Amelia knew killer, I was sure it was someone else! And the romance. The teases and forays into something more. I can't wait to see where things lead!

The Lady of Letters is a historical mystery series and the female characters are bound by the societal rules of Victorian England. That being said, I love how almost all of the female characters push those boundaries of propriety. Even Lady Tabitha, the woman with a strict code to follow the demands of propriety has a willingness to bend at times.

In a series that has it all MURDER IN MASQUERADE brings the best of historical drama with witty repartee, fantastic characterization, and a thrilling mystery. 

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 Murder in Masquerade (A Lady of Letters Mystery) by Mary Winters

About Murder in Masquerade

Murder in Masquerade (A Lady of Letters Mystery)
Historical Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series
Setting - London, 1860
Publisher: ‎ Berkley (February 20, 2024)
Paperback: ‎ 336 pages

Extra, extra, read all about it! Countess turned advice columnist Amelia Amesbury finds herself playing the role of sleuth when a night at the theatre turns deadly.

Victorian Countess Amelia Amesbury’s secret hobby, writing an advice column for a London penny paper, has gotten her into hot water before. After all, Amelia will do whatever it takes to help a reader in need. But now, handsome marquis Simon Bainbridge desperately requires her assistance. His beloved younger sister, Marielle, has written Amelia's Lady Agony column seeking advice on her plans to elope with a man her family does not approve of. Determined to save his sister from a scoundrel and the family from scandal, Simon asks Amelia to dissuade Marielle from the ill-advised gambit.

But when the scoundrel makes an untimely exit after a performance of Verdi’s Rigoletto, Amelia realizes there’s much more at stake than saving a young woman’s reputation from ruin. It’s going to take more than her letter-writing skills to help the dashing marquis, mend the familial bond, and find the murderer. Luckily, solving problems is her specialty!

About Mary Winters

] © Julie Prairie Pho

Mary Winters is the author of the Lady of Letters historical mystery series. She also writes cozy mysteries under the name Mary Angela. A longtime reader and fan of historical fiction, Mary set her latest work in Victorian England after being inspired by a trip to London. Since then, she’s been busily planning her next mystery—and another trip! Find out more about Mary and her writing, reading, and teaching at marywintersauthor.com.

Author Links: 

Website http://www.Marywintersauthor.com  

Blog http://www.Marywintersauthor.com/blog  

Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/marywintersauthor  

Instagram http://www.Instagram.com/marywintersauthor  

GoodReads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/157979415-murder-in-masquerade  

Purchase Links - Amazon - B&N - BAM - Bookshop.org - Powell's Books - Hudson Booksellers

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Murder by Lamplight - A Review

 Review

MURDER BY LAMPLIGHT by Patrice McDonough

The First Dr. Julia Lewis Mystery
 

Though the cholera epidemic has slowed, the East End of London in 1866 remains a miasma of poverty, filth, and murder. When a body is found in a sewer Dr. Julia Lewis is called to the scene. Inspector Tennant would rather wash his hands of her, despite her thorough and professional report, but when another body is discovered with decided similarities, he has no choice but to call for her again. A serial killer is at work and is toying with the inspector. Will the unlikely duo of a posh detective and a female doctor be able to stop the killer or will the taunting continue...with one of them becoming a victim? 

I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping historical mystery. Detailed descriptions transported me to the gritty reality that was London's East End in 1866, thankful I was only imaging the horrific smells. Dr. Julia Lewis is a unique woman with modern day thinking and beliefs, yet she's not anachronistic. I admire her strength, but I love that we also see some weaknesses. What I most appreciate about her is her ability to banter with everyone, no matter their class. I enjoy the camaraderie between Inspector Tennant and his crew and their methodical pursuit of the killer.

The mystery is a suspense filled maze; a pursuit of a killer, but also the pursuit by the killer. Readers are given all of the clues, yet it is still shocking when the killer is unmasked. The first Dr. Julia Lewis Mystery depicts heinous crimes and grisly descriptions. It's a story of retribution, but also one of fortitude, hope, and growth.

 

Shocking murders in an atmospheric setting make MURDER BY LAMPLIGHT a historical mystery that will have you transfixed.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Murder by Lamplight by Patrice McDonough. It appears to be a standalone mystery, though I'm hoping it's the first in a series.

Though the cholera epidemic has slowed, the East End of London in 1866 remains a miasma of poverty, filth, and murder. When a body is found in a sewer Dr. Julia Lewis is called to the scene. Inspector Tennant would rather wash his hands of her, despite her thorough and professional report, but when another body is discovered with decided similarities, he has no choice but to call for her again. A serial killer is at work and is toying with the inspector. Will the unlikely duo of a posh detective and a female doctor be able to stop the killer or will the taunting continue...with one of them becoming a victim?

A Newlywed's Guide to Fortune and Murder - A Review

 Review

A NEWLYWED'S GUIDE TO FORTUNE AND MURDER by Dianne Freeman
The Sixth Countess of Harleigh Mystery

While George Hazelton has a new mission recovering a book for the British Museum, his new wife, Frances, the Countess of Harleigh, has her own assignment, preparing a young woman's presentation to the Queen. Instead of finding the irascible woman who asked for her help while she and her family were in mourning, Frances discovers a woman nearly insensible! How could the Vicountess Lady Winstead become so ill so quickly? The equally irascible Lady Esther is certain that someone is harming her old friend and demands Frances uncover the truth. Could the niece Lady Winstead is sponsoring be poisoning her? Everyone knows there's no love loss between the vicountess and her stepchildren, could they be behind it? As George's mission intersects with Frances's, the newlyweds will have to work together before it's too late!

Class expectations, familial machinations, and greed are at the center of the sixth Countess of Harleigh Mystery. We also get to see diametrically opposed families; Lady Winstead's horrible household versus the Hazelton's caring one. France's aunt and George's sister jump right in to help...even Hetty's beau joins in, whereas the pretentious Lord Jonathon and insouciant Si and Vi are most unpleasant...and possibly worse. While Frances already has reason to dislike the members of Lady Winstead's household, Kate's behavior certainly doesn't engender trust. 

I absolutely love this series, from the bantering love of Frances and Hazelton to the complex mystery provided. There's humor and many twists and turns as almost everyone appears guilty! I love seeing George and Frances work together, at their relationship as well as in their "jobs". I also like that the book shines a light on the use, and misuse, of laudanum, and the lengths some people go to in order to control women...and finances.

With fascinating historical detail A NEWLYWED'S GUIDE TO FORTUNE AND MURDER is a brilliantly crafted mystery that kept me engaged from page one.

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading A Newlywed's Guide to Fortune and Murder by Dianne Freeman. This book is the sixth in the Countess of Harleigh mystery and was released yesterday.

While George Hazelton has a new mission recovering a book for the British Museum, his new wife, Frances, the Countess of Harleigh, has her own assignment, preparing a young woman's presentation to the Queen. Instead of finding the irascible woman who asked for her help while she and her family were in mourning, Frances discovers the woman nearly insensible! How could the Dowager Vicountess become so ill so quickly? The equally irascible Lady Esther, is certain that someone is harming her old friend and demands Frances uncover the truth. Could the niece the vicountess was sponsoring be poisoning her? Everyone knows there's no love loss between her and her stepchildren, could they be behind it? As George's mission intersects with Frances's, the newlyweds will have to work together before it's too late!

Murder in Postscript - A Review & Giveaway

 Review

MURDER IN POSTSCRIPT by Mary Winters
The First Lady of Letters Mystery

Young widow Amelia Amesbury finds great joy in two things, being mother to her late husband's niece and writing an agony column for the newspaper. When she receives a letter from a maid fearing her mistress has been murdered and wanting to meet, Amelia wonders if it's merely a ploy to uncover her identity. Deciding to take a chance she agrees to meet the young woman, only to find her dead. With the help of the Marquis of Bainbridge, a good friend of the Amesburys, she'll undertake to find a killer.

I loved absolutely everything about this series opener. Well developed characters with lots of backstory to explore, a complex mystery, and what I hope to be a burgeoning romance kept me from all household tasks as I was compelled to keep reading this historical mystery.

Amelia Amesbury is a fantastic protagonist. She speaks her mind though her ideas may be more modern than Victorian. The Marquis is a solid foil, and the epitome of still waters run deep. Also not one to bow to convention, he's a perfect match for Amelia. Hopefully, he'll be able to trust as well as see that. The secondary characters are infused with rich detail and are not merely decoration. From maids to admirals they all have a story to tell.

Witty and wonderful, MURDER IN POSTSCRIPT combines fantastic characters, a well devised mystery, and a superb setting to create a spectacular start for the First Lady of Mystery series.

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 Murder in Postscript (A Lady of Letters Mystery) by Mary Winters

About Murder in Postscript

Murder in Postscript (A Lady of Letters Mystery)
Historical Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting - Victorian London, 1860
Berkley (March 28, 2023)
Paperback: ‎ 320 pages

When one of her readers asks for advice following a suspected murder, Victorian countess Amelia Amesbury, who secretly pens the popular Lady Agony column, has no choice but to investigate in this first book in a charming new historical mystery series.

Amelia Amesbury—widow, mother, and countess—has a secret. Amelia writes for a London penny paper, doling out advice on fashion, relationships, and manners under the pen name Lady Agony. But when a lady’s maid writes Amelia to ask for advice when she believes her mistress has been murdered—and then ends up a victim herself—Amelia is determined to solve the case.

With the help of her best friend and a handsome marquis, Amelia begins to piece together the puzzle, but as each new thread of inquiry ends with a different suspect, the investigation grows ever more daunting. From London’s docks and ballrooms to grand country houses, Amelia tracks a killer, putting her reputation—and her life—on the line.

About Mary Winters

 

Mary Winters is the author of Murder in Postscript, the debut novel in A Lady of Letters Mystery series. A longtime reader of historical fiction and an author of two other mystery series, Mary set her latest work in Victorian England after being inspired by a trip to London. Since then, she’s been busily planning her next mystery—and another trip! Find out more about Mary and her writing at marywintersauthor.com.

Author Links: 

Website http://www.Marywintersauthor.com  

Blog http://www.Marywintersauthor.com/blog  

Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/marywintersauthor  

Instagram http://www.Instagram.com/marywintersauthor  

GoodReads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61391814-murder-in-postscript  

Purchase Links Amazon Barnes & Noble Bookshop IndieBound Audible

 

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