Murder Most British (The Secret Detective Agency Book 3), by by Helena Dixon

Publication Nov. 6, 202

Lady Jane Treen probably wasn't expecting an wartime undercover government job of being her mother's piano accompanist at morale boasting radio recording sessions. But, that's where she finds herself this go-round. Of course, Arthur Cilento and Benson, his assistant/medical caretaker are along for the ride. One has to figure Benson didn't expect to be doing undercover jobs as a janitor, either. Their task is to ferret out who and how secret information is being transmitted to the enemy via secret codes worked into the programming. That's where master code breaker Arthur comes into the spotlight. One person has already died because they knew too much, so time and secrecy is of the utmost importance. Then there's another murder.

I won't detail the plot any further other than to say you get an excellent look at life in wartime Britain in London, 1941. You'll also get a glimpse of some of the hardships ordinary citizens endured, from having to maintain the blackout while still getting around wintertime London in the dark. Jane spends lots of time going and coming by bus, which usually means a crowded, uncomfortable trip even under the best of circumstances. It's no wonder she's always happy to get home to her one-eyed cat Marmaduke who shows his devotion to her in this installment. Unfortunately for Arthur, occasionally taxed with feeding him, he's not as friendly to men. Let's just say, ouch, those claws are sharp. 

I've liked this series from the start but am happy to report that Jane has really grown on me. As Arthur notes at one point, she's decisive, brisk, and swift moving, never flinching in the eyes of danger. And, shh, I think she's beginning to grow on him, too. Well, if her smoking and quick pace doesn't kill him first. His asthma hinders his physical involvement although he rarely lets it stop him completely. And, of course, Benson knows just how to deal with it in the aftermath of over exertion. It was interesting to see Jane spending more time with her actress mother, a relationship that is, oh, let's say cautious and tricky at the bet of times. We do get some insight into her mother, albeit limited still. She obviously may have more than a few surprises left for us. The supporting cast this go-round is pretty much tied to the radio station and it remains to be seen if they'll be repeat characters. It was fun to watch Arthur's mind struggle with the code while Benson discovers a few helpful hints in his undercover role, too. As for the villain, I had them on my list but wasn't sure until the end drew closer and closer. Fanaticism knows no bounds, obviously. Bottom line, an intriguing mystery with characters who are showing growth as we get to know them better. Thanks #Bookouture for allowing me this early read of this fascinating bit of time and activity that, while most of us know vaguely existed, we really know little about. I definitely liked Arthur's sneaky way of protecting the documents at one point.