The Sisterhood (Lady Emily, #19), by Tasha Alexander

 

Publication Sept. 23, 2025

This was my first read of this apparently long running series. That said, while it ultimately worked as a stand-alone, I felt like I would have known the two leading characters far better had I read earlier books.  Bad me. I enjoyed the main characters, well, most of them, and always love my virtual visits to Edwardian England, even if the status conscious nobility frequently annoys me. All that aside, I don't think this was the book for me as the alternating timelines kept throwing off my focus. Honestly, being new to the series, I had no clue why we were suddenly back in AD 60 when a murder had just taken place in 1907, England. Although it ultimately made sense, I obviously need to shy away from books with this trait as it really broke my concentration and, quite frankly, frustrated my "I wanna know who did it!" fixation. Some readers won't be bothered by this at all, of course, making the book a 4/5 star for them, though for me it kept it at a 3.5 rounded to a 4 star.

As noted, I did wind up quite enjoying meeting Lady Emily and her husband Colin Hargreaves. While the book didn't focus much on their relationship, it appears an excellent one, with lots of understanding, patience, and support. There's even some humor. I applaud Colin for not simply strangling her snobby, very annoying mother. Let's just say, even while understanding Edwardian society pressures and its expectations, she got on my last nerve. I do wish I knew more about Colin's ties to the king, however, so I'm going to have to do some catch up reading. My other favorite character was Sebastian, ironically a thief, albeit a charming, devilishly one. He seems to go way, way back with Emily, claiming an undying love, a relationship that, again, I need to sort out. He may be a thief, but he's charming and I have to admit, I sort of enjoyed his tweaking of the system and readily being willing to share the weak points he utilized in his thefts with Emily and Colin.

As for the murder, it happens early on. I was actually rather taken with the victim, so a bit disappointed to see them killed off so soon. The final reveal was actually rather shocking but made sense based on all we see and learn. And, no, I didn't guess it early though the clues were certainly there. The 60 AD story threw my sleuthing game off. Yeah, that's my excuse. Oddly enough, I think I'd have found that story line intriguing on its own given my own history buff tendencies and the role of horses in Vatta's life. I did know the gist of the story of the ancient warrior woman, Boudica, so it was interesting to read more about that era, confused as it left me initially about its connections to the 1907 mystery. And, the title will make sense to you as being symbolic as the story progresses. You'll also be reminded that being popular isn't the same as being liked. 

Bottom line, while not quite the book for me, it intrigued me enough to have put a couple of the author's past books on hold at the library. I liked the relationship between Emily and Colin, especially in comparison to some of those surrounding them, and want to know more. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for sharing this with me and letting me know what I've been missing.  

Tea with Jam & Dread (Tea by the Sea Mysteries Book 6), by Vicki Delany

 

Publication July 29,2025

We're off to jolly ol' England in this installment of the series. Well, not so jolly. Not only is Elizabeth, a countess nearing 100 years-old, who has opened up the Thornecroft Castle estate as a luxury hotel, dealing with family drama, but there's a murder. Needless to say, long time readers won't be surprised to discover Lily Roberts in the middle of it. There with her grandmother Rose, a former kitchen maid at the estate who'd become Elizabeth's friend, and best friend Bernie/Bernadette, she offers to help out in the kitchen. While a kind offer, it puts her on the suspect list. To complicate matters, priceless family jewelry goes missing. Are the crimes connected? 

I won't detail the plot but will note that I very much appreciated the cast of characters included at the front (and British recipes at the end). This one has a large cast and, quite frankly, even after finishing I'm not quite sure I have the family connections quite straight. As a result, the pace seemed leisurely at times as the various characters were introduced, many basically just passing through while others played a more active role. It was interesting that one character was part of a movement to do away with the nobility and status ranking, so to speak, as we heard others talk of the role such things had played in their lives and, yes, the personality of the victim. The usual cast, Rose, Bernie, and Lily were joined by Matt Goodwell, Bernie's boyfriend, a writer doing research in England, and master gardener Simon McCracken, Lily's romantic partner. . 

Bottom line, I like these characters and it seemed like Lily was taking a bit more of the lead in the investigation this go-usual this round rather than following and being prodded by Rose and Bernie. For long time readers, enjoy getting a glimpse of the England Rose so fondly remembers, not to mention enjoy Lily's panic over not just roundabouts but driving on the, to her American mind, the wrong side of the road. Fortunately Simon eventually takes on the driver role or we might have gotten some insight into British hospital care. Lots of family drama and angst, spurned romances, and lively children running about. While the final reveal seemed to just happen, it was satisfactory and wrapped up the case nicely. Thanks #KensingtonPublishing- #KensingtonCozies for allowing me this early peek at the goings-on in Lily's life. How delightful to get this glimpse of Rose's past, in particular, and the aristocratic life of some in England, not to mention their police procedures. The quick glimpse of the barn activity was a bonus. Long nail file, indeed. Grin.

Murder on the Cornish Coast (A Miss Underhay Mystery Book 19), by Helena Dixon

 

Publication Feb. 20, 2025

First, they need to sign Bertie, Kitty's spaniel, up for the police. Kitty and Matt, who operate the Torbay Private Investigative Services, are no slouches but Bertie's super sniffer nose has proven helpful when it comes to sniffing out clues. Kitty and Matt are at Highcliffe Manor at the behest of Lady Cordelia Hedges. Injured during her father's murder, she lost her memory of it but is beginning to have flashback memories. As a result, some incidents have happened that make her believe her life may now be in danger. It's Kitty and Matt's job to sort it all out and keep her safe.

I won't give away much more because I don't want to ruin even one moment of this read for you. Let's just say there are several viable suspects and more twists and turns than I could keep track of. Many are even members of Cordelia's own family. Fortunately for my own frustration level as I couldn't sort it all out before the big reveal, the plot moves along quickly despite Matt being distract4ed by minute clues concerning an older case of personal interest. what happened to Redvers and is he still alive? This seems to be a long standing mystery, however, with tantalizing clues popping up in every book. The fact it is connected to Matt's past experiences, painful ones when he was in a military hospital, makes it all the more personal to both Matt and Kitty as well as readers. So, lots of secrets to ferret out, both new and old. 

Kitty and Matt and a likable couple, Part of the fun is that they always seem to manage to wind up going to amazing places to investigate, usually with Bertie. Hey, as a dog person I like that. Neither is perfect and, in fact, we are reminded of how his war experiences left invisible wounds on Matt. I'm sure his condition would fall under PTSD today. Kitty's calm understanding, love and patience reveal much about her, too, as we learn ways she's come to cope. Neither let it slow down their investigating, of course. While some of the regulars are missing this go-round, the characters we do meet are interesting as we ponder which of them might be guilty of murder and plotting another. So, interesting characters from an array of backgrounds, a fun dog, loving couple with investigative smarts, and ina lovely setting with a puzzling mystery to solve. Fun! Thanks #Bookouture for introducing me to Kitty and Matt and the early virtual invite to catch up on what's going on with them....and Bertie. Give that dog a virtual treat!

Murder in Season (A Lady of Letters Mystery, 3), by Mary Winters

 Publication December 3, 2024

In public, Amelia Amesbury is the proper English Lady of 1860 England. She has a secret, however. Well, perhaps more than one. The biggest secret is her identity as columnist Lady Agony. As such, she offers some frequently not-so-discreet advice to those who write in for advice. You know, hardly the thing a Lady of that time would think, let alone vocalize. She could use some advice herself this go-round, however. First, advice on how to handle her beautiful, unpredictable sister who arrives unannounced to be sponsored for the season. Seems Madge has run into a few problems back home, one of which involved leaving a not-so gentlemanly wannabe suitor with a broken arm. I'd say Madge is not to be trifled with. For that matter, Amelia could use some sage advice on her own romantic yearnings. Seems she just can't quite budge Simon from the friend zone into suitor material. Then there's the little matter of a male guest that becomes ill at the ball given for Madge and later dies.  Toss in a jewel thief absconding with some valuable family jewels from various residences and Amelia's amateur sleuth persona is about to be very busy. And, oh, did I mention that the man that died had words with Madge just before coming ill? That only adds to the problems Amelia is trying to juggle.

I won't detail the plot further other than to say there are other, actually far more viable suspects than Madge. But, well, seems to Detective in charge has it in for the Amesbury family. Toss in what we'd consider quaint standards of behavior, what society members find proper and improper, and family pressures and Amelia can't seem to catch a break. Those used to somethings happening every second plot speed may find this one quite slow but it's actually quite nice to relax into the pace of the 1860s. I liked the characters, even stern, rigid Aunt Tabitha, who is a force to be reckoned with when she assumes her mantle as Lady Tabitha, that's for sure. Simon is solid, albeit could be the poster boy for slow burn romances. Madge, oh, boy, she is personality plus. Outgoing, far more physically able than the typical female of that era, and can't always seem to rein in her impetuous mouth. There are more, actually lots more, which does always seem to take me a bit to sort through them given the use of both titles and names. What can I say, I felt like I needed a cast of characters at times. 

Bottom line, an enjoyable if slow read. The setting was well done and I felt like I was strolling the park with characters more than once, and the descriptions of both the clothing and physical appearances were well done. And, oh, some of the clothing. I'm the sort that doesn't much like dressing up but it'd sure be fun to see, wouldn't it? As to whodunit, I didn't really sort it out until the reveal for sure, so it kept me guessing. And, oh, do be sure to read the epilogue. Thanks #SevernHouse for letting me take an early time-travel trip back to 1860 London. It was fun and I found myself enjoying the characters and their lives/adventures, both of which gave me an idea of the difference between the haves and have not groups. The traces of humanity from all were well done and heartwarming at times.

Murder on the Nile (A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery #19), by Verity Bright

 

Publication Sept. 28, 2024

Egypt has always fascinated me. Having read a few non-fiction books focused on Egypt, I jumped at the opportunity to read this fictionalized account set in 1924. It'd also been quite some time since I  checked up on the events in Lady Eleanor Swift's life. How long? Actually, I'm not sure, but obviously awhile since she was still relatively new to her title when I last tuned in. As much as I enjoy her growing friendship with Clifford, who seems to be the perfect lady's butler, I did miss getting to catch up with Hugh and the ladies of the manor until late in the story. That said, Egypt itself makes for a fascinating character in a way, particularly with the detailed descriptions we get from the author. I'm glad she made Lady Eleanor such an observant character, opening the way for those details. 

Eleanor is quite likable and seems able to talk to everyone, probably due to her past history of world travel. As it was, however, I had to chuckle at her almost bubbly efforts to make conversation with the other passengers, none of whom seemed particularly interested in being social. That Eleanor persists, tells you about her personality, one not easily detoured or put off by someone. I could relate somewhat to the others this time as I'm one of those who frequently prefers to simply sit and read or gaze at the world about me, hard to do when someone as chatty as Eleanor is about. Her trust and admiration for Clifford, the butler-friend who accompanies on this voyage, is definitely fun to watch. Clifford is a fascinating character in his own right and I fear I may have missed some character reveals of him while on hiatus from this series. He seems unflappable and to almost know what Eleanor is thinking or needs before she even does at times. He's also protective and, even better, seems to be good at it. I mean, there are crocodiles.

As for the supporting cast this go-round, I never felt I got to know them well, though I'll blame the road work outside my window for that. There were interesting stories behind the characters but all seemed tied to the mystery. Ah, the mystery? Who killed Lieutenant Baxter. Even more delicious for mystery buffs, the body is found in a locked room of the (not so luxurious) SS Cleopatra. Shades of Agatha Christie. We do get to visit some pyramids, however, and actually spend time inside a tomb. Let's just say, that isn't for those with claustrophobia. There are also references to the discovery of King Tut's tomb and the demand for Egyptian artifacts, legal or otherwise. But, how is this all tied to the death of Baxter? Well, I'm not telling but will admit to not quite figuring it out myself prior to the reveal. The clues were tricky, let's just say, and I obviously need to up my sleuthing game. The killer is diabolical and there are reasons behind their actions that do help it all make sense in the end. Thanks #Bookouture for letting me catch up with Lady Eleanor again with this early peek at her adventurous life. I will be making an effort to catch up again, that's for sure.

A Most Intriguing Lady, by Sarah Ferguson

 

Like many, I'm sure, I opted to read this book out of curiosity. It was highly publicized given Ferguson's title as Duchess of York, but I'd somehow never gotten around to it until now. Honestly, my expectations weren't high. I was pleased to discover, however, that I was wrong. It was an interesting, well-written read. 

I won't belabor the plot as I'm sure it's been retold countless times by now. Instead, just a quick look at the characters that kept me reading, Lady Mary Montague Douglas Scott and Colonel Walter Trefusis. Tre, as Mary winds up calling him, seems an unlikely hero. He's obviously suffering from some sort of PTSD and has a splitting headache and is feeling woozy. Unfortunately, he's seated at a crowded table while leaving the table is seen as, at best, rude. Yet, he manages to leave the crowded space and go outside from some much needed air. Much to his surprise, he notices the young woman who was seated across from him is outside, too. Lady Mary. Even more surprising, she isn't just taking in some fresh air, she's doing a sort of tight-rope walk across a narrow, raised area. Mary hadn't planned on doing it but, well, she just couldn't resist. It thus becomes obvious that though she's spent her life in the background, rarely garnering attention, there's another side to her. A more daring side. 

Inevitably, the two connect and find kindred spirits in each other. While there's an underlying current of romance, the story focuses on how they're able to combine their strengths to solve crimes. Already intrigued by their characters, I thoroughly enjoyed the story of how they worked together, which was far more the focus than any budding romance. I have to admit, I found that refreshing. You'll certainly learn a bit about expectations based on rank and sex during this time period, as well as what motivates Tre and Mary. Glad I finally got around to reading this #Avon book that blends in some real events, I might note.

Murder at a Scottish Castle (Scottish Shire Mystery #5 ), by Traci Hall

 

Publication Jan. 23, 2024

How does one cheat in a bagpipe contest?

Actually, the answer turned out to be fairly fascinating. Who knew? Definitely not me. Heck, even most of those gathered at the contest or even involved didn't really know. That question, of course, is important to find the answer to when the man accused of cheating die during said contest. Was it accidental? Did someone kill him? If so, how? He was in plain view of spectators on the castle grounds and, in fact, the focus of attention when he collapsed. 

Like the rest, Paislee is curious but only allows herself to be fully pulled into investigating when the Dowager Countess asks her to find answers. True, that gives Paislee a minor thrill being able to tell someone honestly that she's having lunch at "the castle" but it's a puzzle. Even worse, she has her own worries to deal with. After an unexpected personal catastrophe, Paislee is feeling overwhelmed but, thank goodness, best friend Lydia steps in to help. Grandpa is there for her, too, and son Brody is proving to be fairly reliable but, well, though he walks their feisty Scottish terrier William, he's still at the age when fun rules over brains occasionally. In other words, normal almost-teen.

You'll like the characters, who seem like genuine people. We all need friends like Lydia, always there when needed. Even better, she knows things and people and is there with a plan. The aristocratic Grant family is, well, born to the title, but tend to come off well, revealing both strengths and weaknesses, not to mention grievances. Well, if Robert could only tone down his aristocratic manner. And, oh, yes, there's even some romance in the air, though all does not flow smoothly. Paislee still feels uneasy about dealing with DI Zeffer. He does seem to be taking her more seriously this go-round, however. They do seem to work well together despite the...friction? Is that friction or attraction? We shall see, we shall see. Change is in the air. 

Bottom line, a fun, relatively quick read that'll teach you a great deal about the art of bagpipes in the process. Both playing and constructing them. You'll meet some interesting characters and be left wondering how much family pride guides many. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me to tag along to lunch at the castle and the bagpipe contest, not to mention check out Paislee's latest knit fashions. Cashmere! Love cashmere.

AUDIO Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord, by Celeste Connally

 

 AUDIO  11h 15m 17s   Narrator Eilidh Beaton

Available Nov. 14, 2023    Macmillan Audio - Minotaur Books

There are a flood of characters who pop in and out and while I can't say I could differentiate them much better via audio than I did with the print version, I cannot blame the narrator. There were just so many characters that my brain wasn't taking them in initially. I had the same issue with the print version, so it was definitely more just the crowd of characters than any weakness of the narration. Having finished the Kindle version a couple days before, I had the benefit of knowing this time which I didn't need to focus on, however. As I note in my print review, which will follow here, I didn't totally disregard the characters as they may be important as the series evolves, and it's definitely being presented as the start of a series given the ending. 

Narrator Beaton does an admirable job, although for me, Lady Petra initially came off as a bit tojo soft sounding. I did note a strengthening as voice as the story went along, however, so I ultimately found it a satisfying. Probably even intentional. I should note that this very British story is done with a British accent, so be prepared to take a few moments to adjust if you are not used to hearing that. Chapters were simply announced via the chapter number. I definitely appreciated the audio version of the latter part of the book as it captured the tension well. 

Original review below:

Being a history buff and fan of cozy mysteries, this one intrigued me. I've gotten somewhat away from my reading of Regency romances but the blurb sounded like it might fit into that former favorite genre. We initially meet the free-thinking Lady Petra and Annie, her maid, in the stable. Seems Petra is fond of riding astride, a practice sure to horrify nobility, and she's rushing to change clothing into a respectable riding outfit (think sidesaddle) with Annie's help after the unexpected arrival of her staid uncle. Unfortunately, all their efforts go for naught as he saw her astride and is taking her father, the Earl, to task for it, pretty much demanding Petra marry. Her father, lucky Petra, is also rather forward thinking and supportive of her independence, but her uncle persists. Can one angry relative be enough to force her to marry? Her late mother left her an inheritance free from any one else's management, hence her ability to go her own way, but life in that era isn't easy for females. Actually, as Petra discovers, she only knows the half of it.

The premise was interesting, the idea of women being sent to an asylum simply because they'd become a burden to their husband. True, some have legitimate health/mental issues but, as Petra discovers, it's become a tool of some wealthy men to rid themselves of a difficult, rebellious wife who can't be cowed. Petra, independently wealthy, had announced that she never planned to wed after the death of her first love, begins to investigate. She's fortunate enough not only to have the security of money and her father behind her, but good friends. That includes Annie. And, then there's Duncan. He's a childhood friend, the one who introduced her to the love of her life, in fact, but they'd gradually become distant and even hostile. But, he's back and soon to be part of Petra's life and plans. They're dangerous plans, too, with a bad guy you'll love to hate, but, well, it took the book a long time to get to that point.

Although I grew to like Petra despite her almost too perfect to be true self, only seeming to show her temper to Duncan, I found myself boggled down in what seemed an endless stream of petty details, names and titles and relationships early on. Heck, we even learned a bit about her horses. Back story is important, especially when a new series debuts, but this one nearly lost me when, sigh, not much was going on until around the halfway point of the book. Many of those names and titles I spent some time trying to sort out and make sense of what role they played in the grand scheme of things turned out to play little or no role. The use of names and titles can always be bewildering to those of us not raised where such are common, alas, but perhaps these characters will play a role in future books as this seems designed to be a series. 

Despite the slow beginning and build, the ending was quite exciting and showed how determined people can work together to create a better world for others. Was it easy? Of course not. Nor were Petra and her supporters willing to just resolve the big danger. In fact, they seemed to be willing to dole out a bit of revenge, making the ending all the more tasty. Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for introducing me to Petra and the world she lives in. The characters and story hooked me enough that I'll be looking forward to seeing what develops...or doesn't develop...between Petra and Duncan.

Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord, by Celeste Connally

 

Publication Nov. 14, 2023

Being a history buff and fan of cozy mysteries, this one intrigued me. I've gotten somewhat away from my reading of Regency romances but the blurb sounded like it might fit into that former favorite genre. We initially meet the free-thinking Lady Petra and Annie, her maid, in the stable. Seems Petra is fond of riding astride, a practice sure to horrify nobility, and she's rushing to change clothing into a respectable riding outfit (think sidesaddle) with Annie's help after the unexpected arrival of her staid uncle. Unfortunately, all their efforts go for naught as he saw her astride and is taking her father, the Earl, to task for it, pretty much demanding Petra marry. Her father, lucky Petra, is also rather forward thinking and supportive of her independence, but her uncle persists. Can one angry relative be enough to force her to marry? Her late mother left her an inheritance free from any one else's management, hence her ability to go her own way, but life in that era isn't easy for females. Actually, as Petra discovers, she only knows the half of it.

The premise was interesting, the idea of women being sent to an asylum simply because they'd become a burden to their husband. True, some have legitimate health/mental issues but, as Petra discovers, it's become a tool of some wealthy men to rid themselves of a difficult, rebellious wife who can't be cowed. Petra, independently wealthy, had announced that she never planned to wed after the death of her first love, begins to investigate. She's fortunate enough not only to have the security of money and her father behind her, but good friends. That includes Annie. And, then there's Duncan. He's a childhood friend, the one who introduced her to the love of her life, in fact, but they'd gradually become distant and even hostile. But, he's back and soon to be part of Petra's life and plans. They're dangerous plans, too, with a bad guy you'll love to hate, but, well, it took the book a long time to get to that point.

Although I grew to like Petra despite her almost too perfect to be true self, only seeming to show her temper to Duncan, I found myself boggled down in what seemed an endless stream of petty details, names and titles and relationships early on. Heck, we even learned a bit about her horses. Back story is important, especially when a new series debuts, but this one nearly lost me when, sigh, not much was going on until around the halfway point of the book. Many of those names and titles I spent some time trying to sort out and make sense of what role they played in the grand scheme of things turned out to play little or no role. The use of names and titles can always be bewildering to those of us not raised where such are common, alas, but perhaps these characters will play a role in future books as this seems designed to be a series. 

Despite the slow beginning and build, the ending was quite exciting and showed how determined people can work together to create a better world for others. Was it easy? Of course not. Nor were Petra and her supporters willing to just resolve the big danger. In fact, they seemed to be willing to dole out a bit of revenge, making the ending all the more tasty. Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for introducing me to Petra and the world she lives in. The characters and story hooked me enough that I'll be looking forward to seeing what develops...or doesn't develop...between Petra and Duncan.

 

A Newlywed’s Guide to Fortune and Murder, by Dianne Freeman

 

Publication June 27, 2023

First, I love the cover. Lots of things going on that aren't immediately obvious to a quickglance, so enlarge it and give it a good look. Bet it'll make you smile.

As for the book, it was a delightful read. One with a slower build to climax than we're often accustomed to but, hey, it takes place in 1900. Things moved much slower then. As you'll see, you couldn't just pick up a phone and call someone. You had to find someone to deliver a message to them. Then wait for them to get it, read, and respond and do the same on their end. Police investigations of necessity then, moved much slower, too, even when the head detective was a friend. 

To be honest, I enjoyed the slower pace, the sense that major events weren't going to slam into my brain every second. That gave me time to relax and even indulge in my history major self. For instance, Frances' husband George is a golf lover. Unsure how popular it was with the masses in 1900, I was curious enough to do a quick search of British golf history. Did you know golf was put on the Olympic calendar for the then upcoming games in Paris? Pretty cool. I also learned what a partner desk was, even taking note of the fact the White House's Wilson Desk, used by Gerald Ford, is an example of one. Okay, history lesson over.

The story begins with a focus on what has made the dowager Viscountess Winstead take ill so suddenly. She literally faints in front of Frances when she visits to sort out the details for the presentation of the Viscountess' niece Kate to Queen Victoria. As it turns out, George, who does "something" for the government, meaning the Home Office, has an interest in the family, too, given his latest case. Then, her nurse is murdered. Frances has George's support as she tries to gather clues, although the one they discover while viewing a play is a surprise. The Viscountess' family seems relatively uninterested in her true situation. Only the niece seems concerned but, well, is it all an act? 

Where did the diary/record of Egyptian excavations and finds by the late husband of the Viscountess that George has been tasked with finding go? The British Museum received artifacts but not the written records. Found once, then, poof, gone again? Odd. 

Will Kate be a social success? Who knew all the quirky rules and regulations necessary for being presented to the Queen? Do you know how to back away regally while wearing a nine foot train? Me, either. Attending a society ball isn't much less stressful although you do get to dance and socialize more. In other words, while puzzling out the mystery, you get to attend some swank royal and society events as viewed through 1900 eyes. Relax and enjoy your read. I did.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for allowing me to time travel back in time to 1900 Britain. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit while also learning something new, always a plus for me.

Anne Boleyn & Elizabeth I: The Mother and Daughter Who Changed History, by Tracy Borman

 

Publication June 20, 2023

To be honest, I picked this book to review mostly because of Mary Boleyn, who showed up in my family tree. I thought I pretty well knew the story of Anne Boleyn and her daughter, Elizabeth I. Boy, was I wrong. The author obviously did painstaking research and it shows. Just the emotional and psychological impact of their times and all the political and religious fervor that surrounded them is thought provoking. 

Anne Boleyn was more than a pretty face who caught Henry VIII's eye. Who knew Anne was such a strong proponent of reform that it shook the British Empire to its roots by the time the full story had played out.  It's hard to imagine a time when translating the Bible/scriptures into English was a crime, potentially punishable by death. Anne, who was largely educated and grew up in the French court, flew in the face of that. Her daughter, not even three years old when Anne was tried and beheaded, would bear the imprint of both her mother's love and reformist beliefs all her life. That and the horror of her mother's death and the reasons behind it shaped Elizabeth's actions, including her determination never to marry. 

I won't even attempt to summarize further, the details just kept coming, and I couldn't even come close to encapsulating it in a mere review. The background info provided tells why events may have unfolded as they did, changing history forever. If you're a history buff, particularly a fan of Tudor history, this one is a must. While heavy on the names, it's a relatively fascinating read that  goes a long way toward giving you a better understanding of the humans behind the often frightening, tragic events that surrounded both Anne and Elizabeth, not to mention Elizabeth's step-sister, Mary. Reading about Elizabeth's enforced stay in the very place her mother spent her last days, ordered by then Queen Mary, and Elizabeth's physical and emotional turmoil fearing every day would be her last was heartbreaking.

Thanks #NetGalley and #GroveAtlantic- #AtlanticMonthlyPress for this enlightening read. I even added some lore to my own family tree, obviously, and was delighted to see the name Knollys pop-up, too, another connection I'd forgotten about.

The Tudors in Love: Passion and Politics in the Age of England's Most Famous Dynasty, by Sarah Gristwood

 

Publication Dec. 13, 2022

This one is not a casual read. I was alternately fascinated and intrigued, then I'd realize a bit later that my mind was wandering. Knowing quite a bit about not just the Tudor era but the players, so to speak, from Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn back to Eleanor of Aquitaine, not to mention the mythical legends of Sir Lancelot and Guinevere did give me a head start. In other words, having some concept of the history involved would benefit readers. 

I can't even begin to summarize the contents. It's very well researched and presented as what I'll call more of a historical work than one you'd pick up as a fun read. There are 24 chapters, each rather long, notes at the end of each, a postscript, appendix, and notes for further reading at the end which is where I found the photos in a digital copy. The intro to the book sets forth the idea that courtly love was more a literary fantasy than a reality. It was useful to those in power and hoping to retain or gain power. The author takes us from its earlier literary emergence, noting that the Lancelot and Queen Guinevere image of romance had its beginnings in a work by Chretien de Troyes in the late 12th century. A knight that would show his love by crawling over a bridge made of sharpened blades....only to have his lady love disappointed that he hesitated? Uh, okay. 

The image, spread by troubadours, including trobairitz, the female version, grew and spread. Let's fact it, there's nothing like a good story to catch the imagination, especially at a time when females had little or not power and were often bartered as marriage objects to smooth the way of their family to power and prestige. Trust me, the author details how this works and gives examples from history. 

My ears figuratively perked up when Eleanor Neville, mother to two kings entered the story. According to this author, Sir Lancelot may have been modeled on Henry, the son of Eleanor Neville, mother to two kings, and Henry II of England. Unfortunately for young Henry, who one biographer called "Lancelot come to life," he died before he could take the throne. That didn't stop the Plantagenet dynasty, as one king claimed to discover Arthur and Guinevere's graves in Glastonbury. Even Excaliber gets a mention....and this is really just the very beginning of the book. Eleanor died in 1260 but the image of Guinevere she helped make popular spread and lives on today. 

Yes, I know you're waiting for me to explain what courtly love had to do with Tudor King Henry VIII chopping off Anne Boleyn's head. Nope, not telling, not that I could come even close to explaining it all without writing a much, much longer review. I mean, there are more than a few wars involved, you know, like the legendary War of the Roses. It was a deadly game, given a romantic tint by troubadours and the tapestries and artwork of the era. And, think of the imagery of "The Virgin Queen" Elizabeth. Flows right into the myths of courtly love. And, hmm, what was that supposed requirement a bride had to have to wed now King Charles? Wonder where that idea came from, hmm?

Oh, come on. Courtly love still grabs our imagination. How many stayed up into the wee hours even here in the decided non-royal United States to watch the "fairy tale" wedding? Ever read or seen a Shakespeare play? Oh, Romeo.... And, think of the movies that use it as the focus, whether the obvious, such as "Camelot" or even "Pretty Woman" and "Dirty Dancing". Courtly love, with its rigid rules and romantic obsessions, still has a hold on our imagination. This book, long though it may be, simply explains why and where that obsession came from. While not for the faint of heart given its length and depth of information, if you are interested in the period, and it spans over a thousand years now that I think about it, you'll find this a fascinating, thought provoking read. Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for allowing me to wallow in the romance, blood thirsty though much of it was, and power struggles with the idea of where the heart came into play. Now, if I could just quit humming the tune of "Camelot"...

A Bride’s Guide to Marriage and Murder (Countess of Harleigh Mystery #5), by Dianne Freeman

Two feuding families. Both invited to the same wedding. What could go wrong?

Although the wedding goes off without a hitch, before American-born bride Frances Wyn can even throw the bouquet, a dead body is discovered nearby. Even worse, the bride's brother is found with the knife in his hand. The wedding trip to Cannes is off. The groom, George, finds himself defending his new brother-in-law from murder. This is book five of the series, new to me, but worked well as a standalone. I felt like we got to know not just Frances and George well as we watched them navigate through the complications of family -- you've got to love them even when they drive you crazy -- and the social norms and expectations of 1900 London. Will they ever get off to that wedding trip to Cannes?

I thoroughly enjoyed "The Bride's Guide to Marriage and Murder". Told via the view point of Frances, we meet the movers and shakers of the plot, even the less than stellar ones. I also enjoyed that the author, rather than relegate the servants to the shadows, did an excellent job of introducing us to many as real people, not just token bodies to cater to the wealthy. The importance of communication, real communication, is highlighted throughout. It was also fascinating to learn a bit about photography of the era. I had no idea how photos of that era were processed. It was also lovely to see how well the author conveyed the love between Frances and George without going overboard with it. Nice touch. The mystery was intriguing, with lots of red herrings and potential suspects and it was fun to watch Frances and George sift through the clues.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to the wedding and letting me hang around to watch it being solved. I'm looking forward to following Frances and George's future adventures, well, once they finally get their honeymoon behind them. 

After the Romanovs: Russian Exiles in Paris from the Belle Époque Through Revolution and War, by Helen Rappaport

"After the Romanovs" opens in a relatively light fashion as wealthy Russians, among them Romanovs, enjoy vacations and visits to France. Paris is a playground for them. Artists of all kinds flock there to rub shoulders with the elite of the world. Stars like Nijinsky shine. Intellectuals sought both rest and creativity, some even rubbing shoulders with a Russian visitor named Lenin. Yes, that Lenin.

Needless to say, the tone of the book switches gears quickly after the Russian Revolution and assassination of the Tsar and his family. The Romanovs were now targets for the new regime. Many of those who once sought amusement or simply enjoyed the thriving creativity to be found in Paris found themselves fleeing to Paris once again, this time as refugees. Now largely penniless and unable to find work, this is their story. Even the mysterious Anastasia makes an appearance in the book.

Watching this history unfold was at once both saddening and fascinating. The emotions of those in exile swung wildly from optimistic and hopeful for a return to Russia to lost and simply desperate to survive. Few had any practical skills and they were cut off from the past fortunes. The manner in which the French accepted them, of course, also varied. The Jazz Age occurred post revolution but the emigres, many of whom had never worked a day in their lives, were usually too busy trying just to stay alive with a roof over their heads and something to eat and wear, to be caught up in it. Interestingly enough, it was some of the female emigres who perhaps came closest, particularly those who found employment with Chanel or in the garment industry. Former duchesses found themselves doing piecework and embroidering to support their families. You might find yourself being seated at a ritzy restaurant by a former duke or driven about town by a taxi driver with royal connections. Rappaport writes at one point that the unifying thread between them all seemed to be a "solidarity in poverty". Starvation and suicide were common.

Even though I found it a bit difficult to keep the names straight in my head -- I found myself scrolling back-and-forth frequently -- I found the book fascinating. The author has done extensive research and the amount of information she shares is almost staggering. You'll also see the birth of the current communist society which, even then, especially after Stalin's ascent, used spies and kidnapping to its benefit both against its own countrymen and the Russian emigres. There's much to take in here and kudos to author Rappaport for sharing her research with us in such a readable fashion.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for the ARC. Even as a former history major and teacher, I came away with not just a more thorough knowledge of the post Russian Revolution emigres but history in general.

A Fatal Overture, by Kathleen Marple Kalb

I found myself deliberately slowing down my reading pace as I wanted the story to last awhile longer for my enjoyment. Although this was a new series to me, I will definitely be following the adventures of opera singer Ella Shane in the future, not to mention going back and reading the previous entries. While the story unfolded at a perhaps slower pace than many others of the same ilk, perhaps appropriately since it unfolds in the early 1900's, it was a delight to meet not just Ella and her beau Gil, a duke/barrister/lawyer, but his family and Ella's extended family and friends. And let's not forget Montezuma, an Amazon parrot, who is thoroughly entertaining with his renditions of not just opera but raucous drinking songs with attitude.

I loved that Gil's mother, a countess, no less, and aunts weren't put off at all by Ella's humble roots or mixed religious influences, even if it was a bit surprising to read they'd discovered a body in the bathtub of their hotel suite. True, he sounds like someone soundly deserving of his fate but, well, this death sets off a series of events and actions that draw you further into Ella's surroundings and reveal past events to those like me who are just discovering Ella Shane.

It's a fascinating world, too, peopled by characters that author Kalb brings to life well. I was particularly intrigued that one of the characters had been a drummer boy at Gettysburg as I, too, have an ancestor who fought in that battle. True, Ella is only a figment of Kalb's imagination but it shows how well she ties the characters, good or not-so-good, alive and part of their world, not just tossed in as distractions. Not only is there the bathtub murder to solve but the question of who is threatening GiI and what role does Ella's reporter friend have in the murder. And, oh, yeah, that ominous message from an aunt with second sight that Ella should be careful where fire is involved. The laudanum dreams Ella has at one point are both wonderful and reveal much background in a way that works, too. Finally, toss in the negotiation going on between Gil and Ella, both of them with many responsibilities, and every chapter was intriguing and informative on who these people were.

Bottom line, I'm looking forward to the next entrant to their lives. Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Press for introducing me to these fascinating people.

 

Heiresses, by Laura Thompson

Money can't buy happiness, cliche that it is, seems to all too often stand true for most of these lives. The author has definitely done meticulous research, interweaving stories and fortunes and titles and family ties smoothly. I do have to admit to thinking I should have been keeping a score card to keep it all ordered in my mind, however. Some familiarity with royal titles, history (mostly focus is on 18-19th centuries), and intertwining relationships might help, too. Mine was fuzzy, long lost in ol' college class notes, but the frequency certain names pops up helps. It only shows how much of the past is intertwined and how forces of history impact lives.

I alternately felt sadness for those involved, anger at how things were in the times, and heartened at the success stories of these women caught up in extraordinary times and surviving when so much was pitted against them. Interestingly enough, some of the successes involved same sex relationships or marriage with a like minded husband. No matter what the relationship, however, good, bad, or indifferent, their stories are absorbing ones.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for the ARC and this fascinating look at a part of history that is unfamiliar to most.