In Dianne Freeman’s charming Victorian-era mystery series, Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, finds her sister’s wedding threatened by a vow of vengeance. London is known for its bustle and intrigues, but the sedate English countryside can host—or hide—any number of secrets. Frances, the widowed Countess of Harleigh, needs a venue for her sister Lily’s imminent wedding, away … from prying eyes. Risings, George Hazleton’s family estate in Hampshire, is a perfect choice, and soon Frances, her beloved George, and other guests have gathered to enjoy the usual country pursuits—shooting, horse riding, and romantic interludes in secluded gardens. But the bucolic setting harbors a menace, and it’s not simply the arrival of Frances’s socially ambitious mother. Above and below stairs, mysterious accidents befall guests and staff alike. Before long, Frances suspects these “accidents” are deliberate, and fears that the intended victim is Lily’s fiancé, Leo. Frances’s mother is unimpressed by Lily’s groom-to-be and would much prefer that Lily find an aristocratic husband, just as Frances did. But now that Frances has found happiness with George—a man who loves her for much more than her dowry—she heartily approves of Lily’s choice. If she can just keep the couple safe from villains and meddling mamas. “The action builds to a strong denouement.” —Publishers Weekly
more
This is the first book by this author that I have read. I found it a little slow in the beginning as she set the scene for the mystery but once the scene was set I found it very hard to put down. It was a lovely change from the usual historical romances I read. It is the third book in the series and although there wasn’t a lot of romance in this book, there was enough to keep it light-hearted. The romance of the main characters has happened in the previous books but not reading the past books doesn’t affect the storyline in this book. I felt the characters were well developed and the storyline had you guessing until the end although there are a few hints along the way. The storyline was not confusing as some mysteries are. There was no sex in this book, which for reviewer was great. It was a very enjoyable read and I know I will be reading more. I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and freely give my review.
A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Murder by Dianne Freeman was another engaging and entertaining book in this historical cozy series.
Frances Wynn and George Hazelton are such a perfect couple as they work together again to find answers regarding mysterious accidents that seem to be happening repeatedly. The plot is filled with excellent twists, turns, deceptive red herrings but only a few viable suspects. It was almost a delight to meet Frances and Lily’s mother, Daisy. She seems to be more concerned with title and prestige than her daughters’ happiness; but she did finally show her support of Frances. However, I missed not seeing Aunt Hetty more in this book as she is a favorite character of mine.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Murder by Dianne Freeman is the third book I this wonderful series that is part historical fiction part cozy mystery. I have now read all three books in this series and I have to say that this truly just keeps getting better and better.
I love Frances Wynn and also George Hazelton. Their chemistry, banter, and couple-dom is just perfect. I also have always liked France’s younger sister Lily and her aunt Hetty.
I enjoyed the plot, the intricate murder/mysteries, and the dialogue is witty, humorous, inventive, and just perfect in every way. The characters are written in such a way that they easily play off of each other, however not in a forced way. The result is an excellent novel with a great female protagonist (she is smart, sassy, independent, and likeable… what is not to like!), great cast of characters, and an excellent installment into what I hope is a long-standing series.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
cosy-mystery, turn-of-20th-century, England, landed-gentry, amateur-sleuth
What a charming and complex delight! Frances’ first marriage was awful except for her now eight year old daughter, but she now has a man she shares love with and hopes to marry as soon as her younger sister’s hurried wedding is accomplished. For which reason they are out in the country, both to have Lily’s wedding away from the gossips and to minimize their mother’s histrionics. All would have been well, but then arranged mishaps began happening and escalating. Time for Frances and George to get sleuthing in earnest. Great characters well drawn and plenty of misdirections and red herrings to keep me reading straight through to the end. Loved it!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!