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A Below Stairs Mystery #7
Speculations in Sin
To save an innocent man’s life, amateur sleuth and cook Kat Holloway must expose a financial scam that could ruin the most powerful aristocrats in Victorian-era London, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Secret of Bow Lane.
Kat Holloway is distressed to learn that Samuel Millburn, husband of the woman who looks after her daughter, has been accused of embezzling funds from the bank where he works as a clerk. The accusation is absurd, and Samuel’s wife fears that her husband will not only lose his post but be imprisoned. Kat vows to uncover the truth.
When she discovers the bank is involved in shockingly murky business dealings, Kat realizes she’s treading in dangerous waters. She turns to her confidante and handsome suitor, Daniel McAdam, for help. To exonerate Samuel, Kat and Daniel may have to expose the unseemly financial dealings of prominent aristocrats and government officials, and even those working to bring down the royal family. Kat will risk everything to protect the man who has sacrificed so much for her daughter, even if it means endangering herself and the friends she has come to love.
Kat Holloway is distressed to learn that Samuel Millburn, husband of the woman who looks after her daughter, has been accused of embezzling funds from the bank where he works as a clerk. The accusation is absurd, and Samuel’s wife fears that her husband will not only lose his post but be imprisoned. Kat vows to uncover the truth.
When she discovers the bank is involved in shockingly murky business dealings, Kat realizes she’s treading in dangerous waters. She turns to her confidante and handsome suitor, Daniel McAdam, for help. To exonerate Samuel, Kat and Daniel may have to expose the unseemly financial dealings of prominent aristocrats and government officials, and even those working to bring down the royal family. Kat will risk everything to protect the man who has sacrificed so much for her daughter, even if it means endangering herself and the friends she has come to love.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2024
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
179 books7,184 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
May 27, 2024
I have read all the books in the series as they were published. This one just missed the mark for me. It is hard to write a series with a working woman and be able to do detective work. So much of the plot involved discussion and short periods of interviews. I found that the lack of action till the end makes for a slow-moving plot. There was a small cast of characters to choose from for the evil doer, so I guessed part of it early on. Many of the reviewers have enjoyed this one, I found it just ok. The romance is moving along at the still glacial pace. But this is a mystery series not a romance.
April 30, 2024
Kat Holloway’s cooking prowess affords her the best spots in wealthy houses, but she stays in the London area because of her daughter, Grace. There’s a whole backstory there that I won’t elaborate on. In this installment there’s trouble with the family Grace stays with while Kat is working. Sam Millburn, the father has been accused of embezzlement and it’s up to Kat to help the Millburn’s, who’ve been a godsend to her and Grace.
As they investigate, someone is murdered, upping the stakes even higher.
There was a lot of danger and action in this installment! Of course, Kat has Daniel, Cynthia, Mr. Thanos, Tess, and her other gang of friends she’s accumulated along the way. Kat inspires loyalty with her kindness and cleverness in tackling problems for those she loves. As usual, I wanted to thump Mrs. Bywater more than a few times! Kat is too good for that awful woman’s house!
I’ve been devouring the Below Stairs mysteries centered on Kat Holloway, a cook in the 1800s solving crimes while wowing people with her food. Speculations in Sin is the seventh book in the series, and so now Kat has made a name for herself in sleuthing. Each book has a separate mystery to solve, but the continuing story arc is her relationship with Daniel McAdam and the friends she’s acquired along the way. I’ve loved every book! The series is best started from the beginning. I’d start with the novella: A Soupçon of Poison, which introduces Kat and Daniel.
I read an e-copy of Speculations in Sin, but I’ve been listening to the audios of the previous books. Anne-Marie Piazza’s performance is fantastic!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
As they investigate, someone is murdered, upping the stakes even higher.
There was a lot of danger and action in this installment! Of course, Kat has Daniel, Cynthia, Mr. Thanos, Tess, and her other gang of friends she’s accumulated along the way. Kat inspires loyalty with her kindness and cleverness in tackling problems for those she loves. As usual, I wanted to thump Mrs. Bywater more than a few times! Kat is too good for that awful woman’s house!
I’ve been devouring the Below Stairs mysteries centered on Kat Holloway, a cook in the 1800s solving crimes while wowing people with her food. Speculations in Sin is the seventh book in the series, and so now Kat has made a name for herself in sleuthing. Each book has a separate mystery to solve, but the continuing story arc is her relationship with Daniel McAdam and the friends she’s acquired along the way. I’ve loved every book! The series is best started from the beginning. I’d start with the novella: A Soupçon of Poison, which introduces Kat and Daniel.
I read an e-copy of Speculations in Sin, but I’ve been listening to the audios of the previous books. Anne-Marie Piazza’s performance is fantastic!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2024
I loved being back in the world of Victorian cook Kate Holloway who solves mysteries with her delightful friends. But I need some more character and/or romance development here.
April 23, 2024
4.5 stars for the 7th book featuring Victorian cook Kat Holloway.
This story hits really close to home for Kat. Sam Millburn, a low-level bank clerk and husband of Kat's dearest friend Grace, is rumored to be embezzling funds from his work place. We all know, and Kat knows, that Sam is innocent. Should Sam be arrested, he will lose his job, his family will likely become destitute, and Kat's daughter(who lives with the Millburns) will lose her home.
What develops is a very tricky case, as Sam is arrested for murder as well as embezzlement and Kat calls on her friends for help.
The author gives the reader a concise explanation of the workings of a merchant bank, as well as a lesson in shady bookkeeping. We also get a glimpse of life in Newgate Prison--not a pretty sight, to be sure! The mystery is a clever one, with several twists and turns. And the resolutions is very satisfactory.
It was so lovely to see all of Kat's friends rally to the cause of helping Sam. It was especially heart-warming to see Kat's romance with Daniel McAdam take a big leap forward as he joined in the hunt for the real killer.
I hope the author is hard at work on the next book--I am eager to see what's next in store for Kat.
This story hits really close to home for Kat. Sam Millburn, a low-level bank clerk and husband of Kat's dearest friend Grace, is rumored to be embezzling funds from his work place. We all know, and Kat knows, that Sam is innocent. Should Sam be arrested, he will lose his job, his family will likely become destitute, and Kat's daughter(who lives with the Millburns) will lose her home.
What develops is a very tricky case, as Sam is arrested for murder as well as embezzlement and Kat calls on her friends for help.
The author gives the reader a concise explanation of the workings of a merchant bank, as well as a lesson in shady bookkeeping. We also get a glimpse of life in Newgate Prison--not a pretty sight, to be sure! The mystery is a clever one, with several twists and turns. And the resolutions is very satisfactory.
It was so lovely to see all of Kat's friends rally to the cause of helping Sam. It was especially heart-warming to see Kat's romance with Daniel McAdam take a big leap forward as he joined in the hunt for the real killer.
I hope the author is hard at work on the next book--I am eager to see what's next in store for Kat.
May 19, 2024
I absolutely love this series and this new book was no exception. A new Mrs. Holloway adventure is always work waiting for!
The characters in this series are what makes it for me. All of them feel real and are so likable and relatable and I'm attached to all of them.
A fun feature of this series are the descriptions of the meals Mrs. Holloway makes during the course of each book. All of them sound delicious and I'm always sorry I don't get to sample any of them.
The plot of this book was very personal for Mrs. Holloway and she was a "mama-bear" for real in her determination to find out who the real killer was to free her friend's husband and as always, the story was well-written and well-plotted and I enjoyed every moment of it!!
The characters in this series are what makes it for me. All of them feel real and are so likable and relatable and I'm attached to all of them.
A fun feature of this series are the descriptions of the meals Mrs. Holloway makes during the course of each book. All of them sound delicious and I'm always sorry I don't get to sample any of them.
The plot of this book was very personal for Mrs. Holloway and she was a "mama-bear" for real in her determination to find out who the real killer was to free her friend's husband and as always, the story was well-written and well-plotted and I enjoyed every moment of it!!
August 11, 2024
Well this was a heart stopping mystery that Kat’s involved in. Particularly as it involves her dear friend Joanna’s husband Sam. Sam’s been accused of embezzling and murder. Kat must bring all her thoughts and wits to bear. Daniel’s here of course. All the usual,suspects made this a pleasing read.
March 7, 2024
Kat Holloway is a cook below stairs in a Mayfair home. She has a daughter who lives with her best friend, a married woman with children. Kat’s story is complicated and just one of the many reasons I recommend reading the series in order. Each book contains a single mystery, so while you can jump in, the overall, slow-burning romance, alliances, friends and more will be enhanced by starting from the beginning.
When Kat visits her daughter on her day out, her friend reveals that her husband Samuel is suspected of embezzling funds from the bank he works for. Kat vows to investigate. She enlists the help of Lady Cynthia. The two visit the bank and while there a murder is discovered. Sam is arrested and accused of the crime.
The tale that unfolds has Kat relying on the aid of Daniel, the clergy, a beat cop and Lady Cynthia’s friends. It was a clever case with a twist that kept me engaged. Along the way we learned about sorbet, and enjoyed food talk that will set your mouth to watering.
I love Kat’s determination even in the face of villains. Slowly, the group piece things together as the tension built. The case has Kat equally stressed with worry over her daughter. If Sam isn’t cleared, where and how will she support Grace, her daughter? Kat longs for a life where she can tuck her in each night.
We see a little development in the romance as promises, but I enjoyed moments with her friends, Grace, and, of course, Daniel. Kat is a strong character and while the mystery was intense, the ending proved satisfactory and left me feeling uplifted.
Fans of mystery, historical fiction, friendship and a slow-burning sweet romance will want to grab a slice of pie and dive into Speculations in Sin and the entire Below the Stairs Mysteries. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
When Kat visits her daughter on her day out, her friend reveals that her husband Samuel is suspected of embezzling funds from the bank he works for. Kat vows to investigate. She enlists the help of Lady Cynthia. The two visit the bank and while there a murder is discovered. Sam is arrested and accused of the crime.
The tale that unfolds has Kat relying on the aid of Daniel, the clergy, a beat cop and Lady Cynthia’s friends. It was a clever case with a twist that kept me engaged. Along the way we learned about sorbet, and enjoyed food talk that will set your mouth to watering.
I love Kat’s determination even in the face of villains. Slowly, the group piece things together as the tension built. The case has Kat equally stressed with worry over her daughter. If Sam isn’t cleared, where and how will she support Grace, her daughter? Kat longs for a life where she can tuck her in each night.
We see a little development in the romance as promises, but I enjoyed moments with her friends, Grace, and, of course, Daniel. Kat is a strong character and while the mystery was intense, the ending proved satisfactory and left me feeling uplifted.
Fans of mystery, historical fiction, friendship and a slow-burning sweet romance will want to grab a slice of pie and dive into Speculations in Sin and the entire Below the Stairs Mysteries. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 12, 2024
I'm always glad to spend time with the characters from one of my favorite series.
March 15, 2024
I love Kat and Daniel, so the relationship developments in this story made me incredibly happy. The mystery was interesting, but I wish it didn’t wrap up so quickly at the end.
March 9, 2024
Stop it! Stop it NOW! - I mean the series. I can bear one more instalment of similar (non)quality, but that better had be the final one. If not, I'll not read it, so as not to spoil good memories of the loveable cast and satisfactory mysteries.
The bank & finance setting of Speculations in Sin lends itself to a nice, complex mystery. Instead, it is rather simplistic and obvious. ... which does not prevent our sleuths from being even more simplistic and obvious.
Kat needs evidence of fraud? - Here you are:
The book needs a little action and suspense toward the end? - Here you are:
You need a murder weapon? - Here you are:
You have the basic questions about the murder such as access, alibis, weapon etc.? - Sorry.
And so forth ... the romance, which is the slowest-burning romance among all the hist.myst.series and already proverbial for it, is, of course, stalled on a near-finish level. Nonetheless, the author can't spare us a few one-step-forward-two-steps-back manoeuvres like the (usual) female anxieties about loss of independence. Although that has long been settled ...
Unfortunately, there are some hints in the book that prepare us for another instalment around Mr. Davies. If that is yet another element of retardation, I won't read it.
The book would get 3 stars, but I have to subtract another star for the author's failure to read the signs and to end the series before it loses its appeal - and its readers.
The bank & finance setting of Speculations in Sin lends itself to a nice, complex mystery. Instead, it is rather simplistic and obvious. ... which does not prevent our sleuths from being even more simplistic and obvious.
Kat needs evidence of fraud? - Here you are:
The book needs a little action and suspense toward the end? - Here you are:
You need a murder weapon? - Here you are:
You have the basic questions about the murder such as access, alibis, weapon etc.? - Sorry.
And so forth ... the romance, which is the slowest-burning romance among all the hist.myst.series and already proverbial for it, is, of course, stalled on a near-finish level. Nonetheless, the author can't spare us a few one-step-forward-two-steps-back manoeuvres like the (usual) female anxieties about loss of independence. Although that has long been settled ...
Unfortunately, there are some hints in the book that prepare us for another instalment around Mr. Davies. If that is yet another element of retardation, I won't read it.
The book would get 3 stars, but I have to subtract another star for the author's failure to read the signs and to end the series before it loses its appeal - and its readers.
March 22, 2024
I can't not rate these books 5 stars because I'm in my feelings about it. It's been so long and I was just happy to be reunited with one my favorite sets of characters. this isn't my favorite of the bunch (corporate mysteries are never as fun) but I've been in a slump for a month and Kat and Daniel dragged it right out. We got some progression in their relationship (!!!) and no cliffhanger ending and I'm already dying for another one. A series reread may be in order
April 29, 2024
Who designed the cover? As pretty as it is, that's not Kat! Is is Miss Swann? Or someone else?
January 1883, Kat Holloway is still busy cooking for the Bywaters in Mayfair, dealing with Mrs. Bywater's social climbing ambitions on a shoestring budget. After Kat returns from her day off, the entire household is in a tizzy because Mr. Davis hasn't returned from his day out. How shocking! Kat tries to investigate the whereabouts of the butler but only makes their already tense relationship more tense. To make matters worse, Kat is preoccupied because her dear friend Joanna's husband, Sam Millburn, has been accused of embezzling funds from the bank where he works. Kat knows he's done no such thing but fears for the family's future if he loses his position. Her own daughter will be affected as well. With the help of Lady Cynthia, Kat begins an investigation into Daalman's bank but before they make headway, Kat observes Sam being arrested for murder! Kat knows Sam is neither am embezzler nor a murderer and someone must have set him up. She's well aware the wheels of justice don't normally turn for people like her, especially not when it comes out that Sam had an unsavory past. However, Kat has friends in high places and she'll leave no resource untapped and no stone unturned to save Sam and his family. With the help of Daniel McAdam, Lady Cynthia and her friends, Kat sets out to solve the mystery. Can she save Sam before its too late?
This is an excellent mystery. I couldn't put it down. The reveal was a bit of a let down though. While it was a surprise, I was expecting something a little bigger from the description of the novel.
I especially enjoyed the romance as usual. It's progressing along nicely, finally. At least the Kat and Daniel relationship is! Cynthia and Thanos need more of a push and there's no more follow-up to the Judith and Bobby situation but I think they're already a devoted couple. I also love the period details in this book. The description of making sorbet by hand without an ice cream maker was so interesting. Kat actually made more of a granita than sorbet. I loved walking the streets of London with Kat and seeing the sights of Victorian London. I could feel the smog and the cold in the air and see hear the people chattering away in their lower class London accents. I also appreciate the awareness of the class system and how it worked against those without money or education. Not a lot has changed, really, but it was worse back then. The descriptions of the gangs that ran London and the street toughs are chilling and it's a miracle anyone survived that life.
Kat is a wonderful and refreshing heroine. I like that she's not a grand lady. It gives her more freedom of movement. Her difficult past makes her sympathetic to those in need of her compassion but also makes her wary and mistrustful at times. She's firm in her convictions and a truer, more loyal friend could not be found for love or money. Kat is fierce, she is strong and no villain stands a chance against her. Kat is also a loving and devoted mother. Grace is turning into a wonderful young lady. She is wise and tough like her mother. I think she's going to be a handful when she's older and a mother-daughter investigative team is in the making!
Kat is finally realizing that it's the content of a man's character and his present behavior that matters more than his past. A man can overcome a difficult past just as she has overcome hers. She can't hold Sam up as a good man with a bad past and then condemn Daniel. I was pleased she finally realized this and that she and Daniel discussed their feelings. Daniel is still roguish and charming but this time it's Kat's turn to be the swoony, supportive partner when he needs a shoulder to lean on. We finally learn his backstory and it's a doozy. My heart went out to him. I think his impressions of his first few years have made him the man he is today. He may have done things he wasn't proud of and would never want his son to do, but he's a good man.
Mr. Davis is a complicated character. He's finally appearing three-dimensional after books of being such a flat character. He sounded like he was going to be a villain and out to ruin Kat or he wanted to get with her but he's not a bad person. There were rumors he had a relationship with another man which he laughed off, but I'm thinking there's some truth to that story. He keeps his past close to his vest in the same way Kat does. Everyone has a past and some stories are personal. Kat shows compassion for not prying even though she really wants to know. He shares enough to get a glimpse of his true character and in return for Kat's compassion and silence, he shows compassion for her as well. I hope he doesn't get mad and use what he knows as ammunition to ruin her. I think they've come to a truce though and understand one another.
Mrs. Bywater is a two-dimensional character. She's cheap but wants to act like she's very grand and blames Kat when Kat can't do both simultaneously. When Kat does do something right, she takes credit for it. UGH. If Kat quits, I know Judith would find her a new position and Cynthia would provide a reference too. Daniel and Thanos would help. Staying is just an excuse to help Cynthia deal with her awful aunt and training Tess to be head cook. Tess has matured and grown a lot. She's confident but not overly confident. She's still learning and appreciates all Mrs. Holloway has to teach her.
I love Judith! She's an Amazon warrior queen! Born into privilege, Judith hasn't lost her entitlement but uses it only when she needs to. She uses her connections for good rather than ill. When Judith is roused to act like a Lady, men better watch out because she doesn't take no for an answer. I didn't understand why Cynthia didn't send Bobby to investigate the bank. Possibly they were afraid Bobby would be recognized or because Bobby isn't as sharp as Cynthia? Or just because Cynthia was bored and wanted something to do? She's better at acting than Bobby anyway. Bobby presents as a man but is for all intents and purposes a gentleman and not a woman pretending to be a man as Cynthia sometimes does. Thanos is suspicious of Daalman's to begin with and itching to get a look at their books. He doesn't have time for more work. I think he needs to teach Cynthia because she could understand his complicated mathematics or at least figure out what to look for. Judith's barrister, Sir Rupert, is pushy and determined. He may be excellent at his job but he doesn't care about Sam as a person. He doesn't care to see justice done, just get Sam free. His angle may be the best approach for this time period, sadly, but Kat's approach is more noble.
Mr. Zachary, the bank manager who deals with clients, is obsequious and sexist. He treats Cynthia like the empty-headed young miss she is pretending to be and assumes her father would be the person to handle her financial affairs just because of his gender. Her uncle is second best even though he's a stockbroker and the one who recommended the bank. That kind of thinking infuriates Kat and Cynthia, not to mention this reader. Mr. Zachary may be the face of the business but he is not a Daalman and therefore, he is not the one running the bank. Neither is Miss Swann, for all her Daalman blood. She's a mere female. I think she's a fierce female who maybe doesn't like all the patronizing and may be working on a hostile takeover of her family's bank! She's a cousin and raised in the bank, she's clearly a strong and powerful woman and yet they put men in charge just because. I think Mr. Z wants to marry Miss Swann to become one of the family and take over the bank. Perhaps they're having an affair but I think she's smarter than him and would never hand over the reins of her bank to an outsider. Whatever is going on, I think they both know all about it and are in the thick of it.
Mr. Kearney, Sam's only friend at the bank, believes in Sam's innocence. He recommended Sam for the position in the first place. I'm surprised he stood up for Sam because I expect he'll get the sack for recommending a supposed embezzler and murderer. I thought Mr. Stockley, the clerk, was up to no good but he seemed like he was not such a bad fellow. A little obtuse and stubborn, perhaps the type who always needed to have something be his idea or have his own way. Mr. Kearney seems like a decent man but only barely. He stuck up for Sam but now he seems to want Joanna for himself.
Joanna is wonderful. She's kind, caring and a supportive wife. She loves Sam very much and believes in him. There are no secrets between them and she knows he is innocent. Sam and Joanna are a devoted couple, so sweet and loving. They're excellent parents to their four, sometimes unruly, children. As they begin to enter the middle class, they seem to be raising their children more innocently and ignorant than Grace. Grace is more aware of the way the world works. She's perceptive enough to pick up on her Mum's cares and listens to her mum's wise council. She helps with the younger children and teaches them how to behave better. I think Kat made the right decision NOT to allow the Millburns to adopt Grace. Grace is better off knowing where she comes from and what her future opportunities are. The young Millburns have more money and more opportunities but are less aware of the outside world.
Mr. Monaghan has forbidden Daniel from investigating the bank. I fear he may have orchestrated the whole plot to punish Kat and force Daniel to choose between his employer/his life or Kat. I do not think Mr. M will let Daniel go so easily and like Kat, I fear he will purposefully send Daniel on a mission from which Daniel will not return. Mr. Jarrett, a London street tough, is a dangerous individual. He's scary and threatening but Kat is plucky and senses he's a big bully. She knows how to deal with bullies. I fear he's more than a bully and her life may be in danger. If he can get Kat out of the way, that clears a path to Joanna and her daughters and I fear I know what they would be useful for. On the other hand, Mr. Grimes is also a London street tough but he's friendly and charming. He's a good man, sweet to young Grace and thinks the world of Daniel. It says a lot about Daniel as a leader.
I love this series and the quirky cast. I can't wait to see what they get up to next. As much as I am happy to read more of Kat and Daniel's adventures, I kind of want his big plot to wrap up and Kat to get her happily ever after.
January 1883, Kat Holloway is still busy cooking for the Bywaters in Mayfair, dealing with Mrs. Bywater's social climbing ambitions on a shoestring budget. After Kat returns from her day off, the entire household is in a tizzy because Mr. Davis hasn't returned from his day out. How shocking! Kat tries to investigate the whereabouts of the butler but only makes their already tense relationship more tense. To make matters worse, Kat is preoccupied because her dear friend Joanna's husband, Sam Millburn, has been accused of embezzling funds from the bank where he works. Kat knows he's done no such thing but fears for the family's future if he loses his position. Her own daughter will be affected as well. With the help of Lady Cynthia, Kat begins an investigation into Daalman's bank but before they make headway, Kat observes Sam being arrested for murder! Kat knows Sam is neither am embezzler nor a murderer and someone must have set him up. She's well aware the wheels of justice don't normally turn for people like her, especially not when it comes out that Sam had an unsavory past. However, Kat has friends in high places and she'll leave no resource untapped and no stone unturned to save Sam and his family. With the help of Daniel McAdam, Lady Cynthia and her friends, Kat sets out to solve the mystery. Can she save Sam before its too late?
This is an excellent mystery. I couldn't put it down. The reveal was a bit of a let down though. While it was a surprise, I was expecting something a little bigger from the description of the novel.
I especially enjoyed the romance as usual. It's progressing along nicely, finally. At least the Kat and Daniel relationship is! Cynthia and Thanos need more of a push and there's no more follow-up to the Judith and Bobby situation but I think they're already a devoted couple. I also love the period details in this book. The description of making sorbet by hand without an ice cream maker was so interesting. Kat actually made more of a granita than sorbet. I loved walking the streets of London with Kat and seeing the sights of Victorian London. I could feel the smog and the cold in the air and see hear the people chattering away in their lower class London accents. I also appreciate the awareness of the class system and how it worked against those without money or education. Not a lot has changed, really, but it was worse back then. The descriptions of the gangs that ran London and the street toughs are chilling and it's a miracle anyone survived that life.
Kat is a wonderful and refreshing heroine. I like that she's not a grand lady. It gives her more freedom of movement. Her difficult past makes her sympathetic to those in need of her compassion but also makes her wary and mistrustful at times. She's firm in her convictions and a truer, more loyal friend could not be found for love or money. Kat is fierce, she is strong and no villain stands a chance against her. Kat is also a loving and devoted mother. Grace is turning into a wonderful young lady. She is wise and tough like her mother. I think she's going to be a handful when she's older and a mother-daughter investigative team is in the making!
Kat is finally realizing that it's the content of a man's character and his present behavior that matters more than his past. A man can overcome a difficult past just as she has overcome hers. She can't hold Sam up as a good man with a bad past and then condemn Daniel. I was pleased she finally realized this and that she and Daniel discussed their feelings. Daniel is still roguish and charming but this time it's Kat's turn to be the swoony, supportive partner when he needs a shoulder to lean on. We finally learn his backstory and it's a doozy. My heart went out to him. I think his impressions of his first few years have made him the man he is today. He may have done things he wasn't proud of and would never want his son to do, but he's a good man.
Mr. Davis is a complicated character. He's finally appearing three-dimensional after books of being such a flat character. He sounded like he was going to be a villain and out to ruin Kat or he wanted to get with her but he's not a bad person. There were rumors he had a relationship with another man which he laughed off, but I'm thinking there's some truth to that story. He keeps his past close to his vest in the same way Kat does. Everyone has a past and some stories are personal. Kat shows compassion for not prying even though she really wants to know. He shares enough to get a glimpse of his true character and in return for Kat's compassion and silence, he shows compassion for her as well. I hope he doesn't get mad and use what he knows as ammunition to ruin her. I think they've come to a truce though and understand one another.
Mrs. Bywater is a two-dimensional character. She's cheap but wants to act like she's very grand and blames Kat when Kat can't do both simultaneously. When Kat does do something right, she takes credit for it. UGH. If Kat quits, I know Judith would find her a new position and Cynthia would provide a reference too. Daniel and Thanos would help. Staying is just an excuse to help Cynthia deal with her awful aunt and training Tess to be head cook. Tess has matured and grown a lot. She's confident but not overly confident. She's still learning and appreciates all Mrs. Holloway has to teach her.
I love Judith! She's an Amazon warrior queen! Born into privilege, Judith hasn't lost her entitlement but uses it only when she needs to. She uses her connections for good rather than ill. When Judith is roused to act like a Lady, men better watch out because she doesn't take no for an answer. I didn't understand why Cynthia didn't send Bobby to investigate the bank. Possibly they were afraid Bobby would be recognized or because Bobby isn't as sharp as Cynthia? Or just because Cynthia was bored and wanted something to do? She's better at acting than Bobby anyway. Bobby presents as a man but is for all intents and purposes a gentleman and not a woman pretending to be a man as Cynthia sometimes does. Thanos is suspicious of Daalman's to begin with and itching to get a look at their books. He doesn't have time for more work. I think he needs to teach Cynthia because she could understand his complicated mathematics or at least figure out what to look for. Judith's barrister, Sir Rupert, is pushy and determined. He may be excellent at his job but he doesn't care about Sam as a person. He doesn't care to see justice done, just get Sam free. His angle may be the best approach for this time period, sadly, but Kat's approach is more noble.
Mr. Zachary, the bank manager who deals with clients, is obsequious and sexist. He treats Cynthia like the empty-headed young miss she is pretending to be and assumes her father would be the person to handle her financial affairs just because of his gender. Her uncle is second best even though he's a stockbroker and the one who recommended the bank. That kind of thinking infuriates Kat and Cynthia, not to mention this reader. Mr. Zachary may be the face of the business but he is not a Daalman and therefore, he is not the one running the bank. Neither is Miss Swann, for all her Daalman blood. She's a mere female. I think she's a fierce female who maybe doesn't like all the patronizing and may be working on a hostile takeover of her family's bank! She's a cousin and raised in the bank, she's clearly a strong and powerful woman and yet they put men in charge just because. I think Mr. Z wants to marry Miss Swann to become one of the family and take over the bank. Perhaps they're having an affair but I think she's smarter than him and would never hand over the reins of her bank to an outsider. Whatever is going on, I think they both know all about it and are in the thick of it.
Mr. Kearney, Sam's only friend at the bank, believes in Sam's innocence. He recommended Sam for the position in the first place. I'm surprised he stood up for Sam because I expect he'll get the sack for recommending a supposed embezzler and murderer. I thought Mr. Stockley, the clerk, was up to no good but he seemed like he was not such a bad fellow. A little obtuse and stubborn, perhaps the type who always needed to have something be his idea or have his own way. Mr. Kearney seems like a decent man but only barely. He stuck up for Sam but now he seems to want Joanna for himself.
Joanna is wonderful. She's kind, caring and a supportive wife. She loves Sam very much and believes in him. There are no secrets between them and she knows he is innocent. Sam and Joanna are a devoted couple, so sweet and loving. They're excellent parents to their four, sometimes unruly, children. As they begin to enter the middle class, they seem to be raising their children more innocently and ignorant than Grace. Grace is more aware of the way the world works. She's perceptive enough to pick up on her Mum's cares and listens to her mum's wise council. She helps with the younger children and teaches them how to behave better. I think Kat made the right decision NOT to allow the Millburns to adopt Grace. Grace is better off knowing where she comes from and what her future opportunities are. The young Millburns have more money and more opportunities but are less aware of the outside world.
Mr. Monaghan has forbidden Daniel from investigating the bank. I fear he may have orchestrated the whole plot to punish Kat and force Daniel to choose between his employer/his life or Kat. I do not think Mr. M will let Daniel go so easily and like Kat, I fear he will purposefully send Daniel on a mission from which Daniel will not return. Mr. Jarrett, a London street tough, is a dangerous individual. He's scary and threatening but Kat is plucky and senses he's a big bully. She knows how to deal with bullies. I fear he's more than a bully and her life may be in danger. If he can get Kat out of the way, that clears a path to Joanna and her daughters and I fear I know what they would be useful for. On the other hand, Mr. Grimes is also a London street tough but he's friendly and charming. He's a good man, sweet to young Grace and thinks the world of Daniel. It says a lot about Daniel as a leader.
I love this series and the quirky cast. I can't wait to see what they get up to next. As much as I am happy to read more of Kat and Daniel's adventures, I kind of want his big plot to wrap up and Kat to get her happily ever after.
March 11, 2024
I’m always content to see another Below Stairs Victorian mystery from Ashley: the main character, master-cook Kat Holloway, and her band of merry assistant cooks and butler, Mr. Davis, along with friends in high and low places, and protector and love-interest, police-agent Daniel McAdam, are a wonderful group to spend reading time with.
Speculations In Sin sees Kat and company solving a murder that hits too close to home not to have their emotions in turmoil. Grace, Kat’s daughter from a former abusive marriage, is now happily, comfortably, and safely living with her best friend Joanna and husband Sam Millburn and their happy brood. Sam makes a modest living as a bank clerk…but not all is well in the Millburns’ and Kat’s frugal paradise. Daalman’s Bank is seeing funds siphoned, a murder in one of their storerooms, and Sam arrested on both counts, an innocent man, Grace’s and Kat’s rock, as well as his family’s. With Ashley’s well-researched awareness of the precariousness of modest people’s lives in 1883 Victorian London, this spells disaster.
How long, as Sam lies at Newgate awaiting trial, before Joanna and her children are destitute and homeless? And what will Kat do about Grace? Where can Grace be safe and happy while Kat works her way out of the kitchen and into a little café of her own? Moreover, Sam is an innocent, good man, but not of the higher social echelons. He can easily be tried and found guilty, too poor for a barrister to plead his case and equally too poor for an investigation to prove his innocence. Kat, Daniel, and friends high and low work to discover the actual culprit behind the embezzling and Mr. Stockley’s murderer. Mr Stockley was found bludgeoned in one of Daalman’s storerooms and whose whereabouts are connected, by coincidence, that murderous morning to Sam, Sam, who wanted to share suspicious financial findings with Stockley and had been suggesting as much for weeks. Conveniently, one honest man is murdered and another is jailed on suspicion of his murder…whoever done the deeds now safe from suspicion and prosecution? Not with Kat and Daniel, Lady Cynthia and absent-minded mathematical genius Elgin Thanos and their friends on the case.
Ashley’s mystery is thin: I guessed the who and why early on in the narrative. Still, I don’t read for whodunnit, but for character, mood, and setting. In Victorian England, class divisions and life’s fragility for the poor, the dubious security of domestic service, were part and parcel of the city’s ethos. Ashley’s awareness of this context is one of her series’ strengths. Certainly, heroine Kat is constantly reminded of this and Sam and Joanna’s helplessness easily bring it home in this seventh volume. But I also like how a domestic servant and her band of friends can bring justice to this world: can free an innocent man. I especially found the inclusion of good-hearted people from those upper echelons, like Lady Cynthia, Miss Townsend, et al., a nicely nuanced addition to the sleuthing working-class characters, though Ashley doesn’t stray far from class-based realities, ever-present in working-class characters’ fears of losing their employment, the only protection between themselves and the street.
Aside from the story of Sam’s arrest and struggle to free him, Ashley advances certain enjoyable narrative threads (at least to those who’ve followed the series from the start). Kat’s love-interest, Daniel, is a mystery within a mystery: ever-charming, protective, affectionate, and likeable, we learn more about his past. Ashley leaves questions in this wake, tantalizing us towards the next volume, but not in a bait-y way, just dropping nuggets along. Even more welcome is a furthering of Daniel and Kat’s relationship, with Kat finally relenting on her mistrust, given her scoundrel “husband”, whose only redeeming quality was to have fathered Grace, it’s understandable, but I was glad to see Kat giving way to her feelings for Daniel, who is heart-on-sleeve from book one. All in all, an excellent addition to the series, emotionally satisfying and leaving things open to further emotional developments in our characters’ lives. With Miss Austen, we agree, Speculations In Sin offers “real comfort,” Emma.
Jennifer Ashley’s Speculations In Sin is published by Berkley (Prime Crime) and was released on March 5th of this year. I received an e-galley from Berkley, via Netgalley, which didn’t impeded the free and AI-free expression of my opinion.
Speculations In Sin sees Kat and company solving a murder that hits too close to home not to have their emotions in turmoil. Grace, Kat’s daughter from a former abusive marriage, is now happily, comfortably, and safely living with her best friend Joanna and husband Sam Millburn and their happy brood. Sam makes a modest living as a bank clerk…but not all is well in the Millburns’ and Kat’s frugal paradise. Daalman’s Bank is seeing funds siphoned, a murder in one of their storerooms, and Sam arrested on both counts, an innocent man, Grace’s and Kat’s rock, as well as his family’s. With Ashley’s well-researched awareness of the precariousness of modest people’s lives in 1883 Victorian London, this spells disaster.
How long, as Sam lies at Newgate awaiting trial, before Joanna and her children are destitute and homeless? And what will Kat do about Grace? Where can Grace be safe and happy while Kat works her way out of the kitchen and into a little café of her own? Moreover, Sam is an innocent, good man, but not of the higher social echelons. He can easily be tried and found guilty, too poor for a barrister to plead his case and equally too poor for an investigation to prove his innocence. Kat, Daniel, and friends high and low work to discover the actual culprit behind the embezzling and Mr. Stockley’s murderer. Mr Stockley was found bludgeoned in one of Daalman’s storerooms and whose whereabouts are connected, by coincidence, that murderous morning to Sam, Sam, who wanted to share suspicious financial findings with Stockley and had been suggesting as much for weeks. Conveniently, one honest man is murdered and another is jailed on suspicion of his murder…whoever done the deeds now safe from suspicion and prosecution? Not with Kat and Daniel, Lady Cynthia and absent-minded mathematical genius Elgin Thanos and their friends on the case.
Ashley’s mystery is thin: I guessed the who and why early on in the narrative. Still, I don’t read for whodunnit, but for character, mood, and setting. In Victorian England, class divisions and life’s fragility for the poor, the dubious security of domestic service, were part and parcel of the city’s ethos. Ashley’s awareness of this context is one of her series’ strengths. Certainly, heroine Kat is constantly reminded of this and Sam and Joanna’s helplessness easily bring it home in this seventh volume. But I also like how a domestic servant and her band of friends can bring justice to this world: can free an innocent man. I especially found the inclusion of good-hearted people from those upper echelons, like Lady Cynthia, Miss Townsend, et al., a nicely nuanced addition to the sleuthing working-class characters, though Ashley doesn’t stray far from class-based realities, ever-present in working-class characters’ fears of losing their employment, the only protection between themselves and the street.
Aside from the story of Sam’s arrest and struggle to free him, Ashley advances certain enjoyable narrative threads (at least to those who’ve followed the series from the start). Kat’s love-interest, Daniel, is a mystery within a mystery: ever-charming, protective, affectionate, and likeable, we learn more about his past. Ashley leaves questions in this wake, tantalizing us towards the next volume, but not in a bait-y way, just dropping nuggets along. Even more welcome is a furthering of Daniel and Kat’s relationship, with Kat finally relenting on her mistrust, given her scoundrel “husband”, whose only redeeming quality was to have fathered Grace, it’s understandable, but I was glad to see Kat giving way to her feelings for Daniel, who is heart-on-sleeve from book one. All in all, an excellent addition to the series, emotionally satisfying and leaving things open to further emotional developments in our characters’ lives. With Miss Austen, we agree, Speculations In Sin offers “real comfort,” Emma.
Jennifer Ashley’s Speculations In Sin is published by Berkley (Prime Crime) and was released on March 5th of this year. I received an e-galley from Berkley, via Netgalley, which didn’t impeded the free and AI-free expression of my opinion.
March 7, 2024
No. 7 in the series was a disappointment for me.
The setting of the mystery in the bank/finance world was promising: there is so much potential for nice, complex crimes. Instead, we get a blunt-istrument-murder. Even the best police officer around never seems to ask the usual questions about alibis, keys, murder weapons ... very gentlemanlike, they leave it all to Kat to find out.
The mystery is not that complex, so it's clear that for Kat to make the main discoveries, all other characters have to remain in the background. Daniel is protective, but suffers heavily from the stupid-sleuth-syndrome (SSS), so much so that he only nods when Kat wanders into the lion's den, alone. ... so that we get the few pages of suspense and action required for the end of the book. The price to pay in terms of character consistency and believability is high.
This is a favourite series of mine, and I object to the author dragging beloved characters into the mud of the stupid and the boring. If the next instalment of the series is the final one, I will read it. If the author insists on adding bad books, I will drop the series.
The setting of the mystery in the bank/finance world was promising: there is so much potential for nice, complex crimes. Instead, we get a blunt-istrument-murder. Even the best police officer around never seems to ask the usual questions about alibis, keys, murder weapons ... very gentlemanlike, they leave it all to Kat to find out.
The mystery is not that complex, so it's clear that for Kat to make the main discoveries, all other characters have to remain in the background. Daniel is protective, but suffers heavily from the stupid-sleuth-syndrome (SSS), so much so that he only nods when Kat wanders into the lion's den, alone. ... so that we get the few pages of suspense and action required for the end of the book. The price to pay in terms of character consistency and believability is high.
This is a favourite series of mine, and I object to the author dragging beloved characters into the mud of the stupid and the boring. If the next instalment of the series is the final one, I will read it. If the author insists on adding bad books, I will drop the series.
March 17, 2024
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Cook Kat Holloway is back sleuthing again when her best friend’s husband is accused of embezzlement. Speculations in Sin takes Kat into the unfamiliar world of finance, a place where reputation is worth its weight in gold and where a man like Sam Millburn can be tossed to the wolves for an institution to save face. Sam is not only Kat’s friend – he and his wife opened their home to Kat’s daughter, so this case is deeply personal.
Kat is walking a tightrope as ever, balancing her position and duties with amateur sleuthing, her relationship with her daughter, and her slowly developing romance with Daniel McAdam. Daniel is by Kat’s side every step of the way, as are her friends. I loved watching Kat among the friends she has made, from Lady Cynthia to Tess and beyond. These connections are integral to the story and the worldbuilding. They are also what interested me the most about the story. As much as I enjoy Jennifer Ashley’s writing, I will say that the mystery didn’t grab my attention this time around. It wasn’t complex enough to carry the story and seemed to drag, taking the book down with it. The resolution, while somewhat satisfying, didn’t wow me like I had hoped. All in all, this was just an OK entry into the Below Stairs series. Any time spent with Kat and company is enjoyable, but Speculations in Sin had a lackluster mystery that didn’t live up to the previous installments.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Cook Kat Holloway is back sleuthing again when her best friend’s husband is accused of embezzlement. Speculations in Sin takes Kat into the unfamiliar world of finance, a place where reputation is worth its weight in gold and where a man like Sam Millburn can be tossed to the wolves for an institution to save face. Sam is not only Kat’s friend – he and his wife opened their home to Kat’s daughter, so this case is deeply personal.
Kat is walking a tightrope as ever, balancing her position and duties with amateur sleuthing, her relationship with her daughter, and her slowly developing romance with Daniel McAdam. Daniel is by Kat’s side every step of the way, as are her friends. I loved watching Kat among the friends she has made, from Lady Cynthia to Tess and beyond. These connections are integral to the story and the worldbuilding. They are also what interested me the most about the story. As much as I enjoy Jennifer Ashley’s writing, I will say that the mystery didn’t grab my attention this time around. It wasn’t complex enough to carry the story and seemed to drag, taking the book down with it. The resolution, while somewhat satisfying, didn’t wow me like I had hoped. All in all, this was just an OK entry into the Below Stairs series. Any time spent with Kat and company is enjoyable, but Speculations in Sin had a lackluster mystery that didn’t live up to the previous installments.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
April 30, 2024
(REVISED REVIEW)
This really is the best book of the series so far, I think because the author dedicated it to her mother, whom she says passed away as she was writing it. How sad! But how dear her mother must have been to her. RIP to your mother, Ms. Ashley. I think her dedication to her mother also shows in the paragraphs where Kat talks about her memories of her mother, and about her love for her daughter Grace. That love has shone throughout the series, but in this book in particular, because Kat opens up more to Daniel, daring to be vulnerable. During the long hours of a late night in Kat’s quiet kitchen, . Kat admits she has erected a wall around her heart because she is afraid of losing him, afraid that something terrible might happen to him and she doesn’t know if she would be able to recover; she has already lost at love once before. For all his public bravado, in this quiet place and time, Daniel says he feels the very same fear—that he might lose her, and worries about her all the time…just as she worries about him. He professes that he would be devastated without her in his life. This valiant man who was stripped of his childhood, his family, his very identity, dares open his heart to love. She holds him as she says she cannot imagine the pain, terror, loneliness and desperation he must have felt as a child, and how much she admires and cares for him. How brave he was to survive such a traumatic childhood and what courage he had to escape the monster who held him captive. Her words are balm for his soul, her arms around him are bonds of love protecting his heart. In another moment, she confesses that she wishes more than anything for her own family, in her own home, with him and daughter Grace. And he says that he wishes the same.
As alluded to above, this book reveals a bit more about Daniel’s early childhood—including a crucial bit of information that I HOPE will reveal in the next book who his real parents are, and thus his real name and family history. Can you imagine not knowing who you really are? He says that, years later, he hunted down his previous captor to asks who the family was, but the monster said he didn’t remember. Truly? Or was that just a ruse? Tragically a moot point, as the villain is long dead.
Kat Holloway is a remarkably strong yet vulnerable female character—in other words, REAL—whose public, no-nonsense demeanor masks a heart of gold. She expresses her love in deeds and actions as we all should. Her deeds just happen to be delicious meals and baked goods! ;) But not exclusively. She always goes the extra mile for her loved ones and friends, especially best friend Joanna. Kat also shows love in action by distributing leftover food to the needy. With no reference to religion, her character is a living portrayal of love in action. Love for one’s fellow human being. Charity and courage, conviction, and bravery. Kat goes to battle
like a warrior queen, brimming with righteous fury at the injustice done to her friends, bruised and beaten, she rallies to help capture the murderer—who almost killed her, too. Epic ending!
This really is the best book of the series so far, I think because the author dedicated it to her mother, whom she says passed away as she was writing it. How sad! But how dear her mother must have been to her. RIP to your mother, Ms. Ashley. I think her dedication to her mother also shows in the paragraphs where Kat talks about her memories of her mother, and about her love for her daughter Grace. That love has shone throughout the series, but in this book in particular, because Kat opens up more to Daniel, daring to be vulnerable. During the long hours of a late night in Kat’s quiet kitchen, . Kat admits she has erected a wall around her heart because she is afraid of losing him, afraid that something terrible might happen to him and she doesn’t know if she would be able to recover; she has already lost at love once before. For all his public bravado, in this quiet place and time, Daniel says he feels the very same fear—that he might lose her, and worries about her all the time…just as she worries about him. He professes that he would be devastated without her in his life. This valiant man who was stripped of his childhood, his family, his very identity, dares open his heart to love. She holds him as she says she cannot imagine the pain, terror, loneliness and desperation he must have felt as a child, and how much she admires and cares for him. How brave he was to survive such a traumatic childhood and what courage he had to escape the monster who held him captive. Her words are balm for his soul, her arms around him are bonds of love protecting his heart. In another moment, she confesses that she wishes more than anything for her own family, in her own home, with him and daughter Grace. And he says that he wishes the same.
As alluded to above, this book reveals a bit more about Daniel’s early childhood—including a crucial bit of information that I HOPE will reveal in the next book who his real parents are, and thus his real name and family history. Can you imagine not knowing who you really are? He says that, years later, he hunted down his previous captor to asks who the family was, but the monster said he didn’t remember. Truly? Or was that just a ruse? Tragically a moot point, as the villain is long dead.
Kat Holloway is a remarkably strong yet vulnerable female character—in other words, REAL—whose public, no-nonsense demeanor masks a heart of gold. She expresses her love in deeds and actions as we all should. Her deeds just happen to be delicious meals and baked goods! ;) But not exclusively. She always goes the extra mile for her loved ones and friends, especially best friend Joanna. Kat also shows love in action by distributing leftover food to the needy. With no reference to religion, her character is a living portrayal of love in action. Love for one’s fellow human being. Charity and courage, conviction, and bravery. Kat goes to battle
like a warrior queen, brimming with righteous fury at the injustice done to her friends, bruised and beaten, she rallies to help capture the murderer—who almost killed her, too. Epic ending!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
I love this series! ❤️
July 11, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed visiting this world again! Well narrated by Anne-Marie Piazza.
October 30, 2023
The Below Stairs Mystery series book seven, Speculations in Sin, Mrs. Holloway, Kat, is out with her daughter Grace for her half day off. When she returns Grace to The Millburn’s home, Kat realizes there is an unusual tension in her friend Joanna Milburn. Joanna and her husband Sam took over the care of Grace when Kat had to become a live in cook to earn money to support Grace. Their kindness has keep Grace safe and well provided for; Kat would do anything for them.
Sam is being pressured at the bank he works at. Sam discovered someone is altering the bank registers and creating accounts to embezzle money. When he brought it to his superiors he was accused of being the thief.. Kat who has looked into other crimes promises Joanna she will look into the bank and its employees. As Kat begins her investigation, she recruits Lady Cynthia who has the means to set up an investment appointment with the bank and can take Kat as her chaperone. While at the appointment Sam is arrested for murder of a co-worker who was helping him investigate the embezzlement.
Can Kat save Sam and find the culprit? With the help of her friends Kat proves what a strong resourceful woman she is and for those of us rooting for her and Daniel there are heartwarming exchanges and hope for the future.
Sam is being pressured at the bank he works at. Sam discovered someone is altering the bank registers and creating accounts to embezzle money. When he brought it to his superiors he was accused of being the thief.. Kat who has looked into other crimes promises Joanna she will look into the bank and its employees. As Kat begins her investigation, she recruits Lady Cynthia who has the means to set up an investment appointment with the bank and can take Kat as her chaperone. While at the appointment Sam is arrested for murder of a co-worker who was helping him investigate the embezzlement.
Can Kat save Sam and find the culprit? With the help of her friends Kat proves what a strong resourceful woman she is and for those of us rooting for her and Daniel there are heartwarming exchanges and hope for the future.
September 24, 2023
What I liked: the below-stairs, Downton Abbey style view of life for the commoners, especially of course Kat Holloway. What I didn't like: I jumped into this series with this book, and Daniel felt pretty one-dimensional to me, which I assume is mostly because I haven't read the previous novels. Still, his character wasn't super interesting to me.
Three stars.
*I received a review copy from the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
Three stars.
*I received a review copy from the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
March 8, 2024
My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre: Mystery, Historical Mystery, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Victorian Fiction
Sub-Genre: Romance (slow-burn & nothing on the page)
Readability: Part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Representation: One side character is gay
SPECULATIONS IN SIN is #7 in *A Below Stairs Mystery* series. I don't know how, but I've missed some of the novels in this series—and that's such a shame because it's so much fun. The title made me wonder if this one was spicy. It isn't.
Things I love:
- Diving into a different time period with different expectations
- Descriptions of food Kat plans and prepares
- Navigating regular life and trying to solve a mystery
- Daniel McAdam (he's complex and worth your time)
- The clues
I love how this story is a slice within the broader context of the story. There are loose ends that will probably get resolved at a later date. Dropping me into people's lives, when done well, is so intriguing—this one is done well.
I'm rooting for Kat. She's had a tough go of it with a formerly abusive bigamist husband and child who she can't live with. I understand why she doesn't trust others and especially men. And when Daniel has a checkered background, I can see why she might be leery. But I really came to appreciate him even more in this installment.
This is a fun Victorian mystery, and I highly recommend it!
Happy reading!
Genre: Mystery, Historical Mystery, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Victorian Fiction
Sub-Genre: Romance (slow-burn & nothing on the page)
Readability: Part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Representation: One side character is gay
SPECULATIONS IN SIN is #7 in *A Below Stairs Mystery* series. I don't know how, but I've missed some of the novels in this series—and that's such a shame because it's so much fun. The title made me wonder if this one was spicy. It isn't.
Things I love:
- Diving into a different time period with different expectations
- Descriptions of food Kat plans and prepares
- Navigating regular life and trying to solve a mystery
- Daniel McAdam (he's complex and worth your time)
- The clues
I love how this story is a slice within the broader context of the story. There are loose ends that will probably get resolved at a later date. Dropping me into people's lives, when done well, is so intriguing—this one is done well.
I'm rooting for Kat. She's had a tough go of it with a formerly abusive bigamist husband and child who she can't live with. I understand why she doesn't trust others and especially men. And when Daniel has a checkered background, I can see why she might be leery. But I really came to appreciate him even more in this installment.
This is a fun Victorian mystery, and I highly recommend it!
Happy reading!
May 20, 2024
In this latest entry in the Below Stairs Mystery series, Kat Holloway is determined to find the culprit behind embezzlement and murder at a bank when Sam Millburn, husband of her oldest friend Joanna who takes care of her daughter Grace, is arrested for the crimes. She turns for help in this to her suitor with the mysterious past, Daniel McAdam, as well as Lady Cynthia, Thanos, and the usual cast of characters.
Speculations in Sin is a picture-perfect historical mystery: great settings, obviously well-researched history, characters with depth whose dialogue never sounds out of time, and a solid mystery that keeps you interested. The only very minor complaint I have is that our main character spends a little too much time reflecting on what will happen to her carefully constructed life if she isn't successful and then promising herself not to let that happen. It gets a bit repetitive. Other than that, a great read.
Speculations in Sin is a picture-perfect historical mystery: great settings, obviously well-researched history, characters with depth whose dialogue never sounds out of time, and a solid mystery that keeps you interested. The only very minor complaint I have is that our main character spends a little too much time reflecting on what will happen to her carefully constructed life if she isn't successful and then promising herself not to let that happen. It gets a bit repetitive. Other than that, a great read.
May 15, 2024
*Read for The Bar prompt of Romanceopoly(a book where the main character has a group of friends).*
What a perfect prompt to read this book for! I love this series so much, and watching Kat with all her friends trying to solve a case in which her best friend's husband was implicated(well, two cases), was a journey I couldn't help but be immersed in. The financial stuff went over my head as I'm horrible at math, but I was surprised about the ending. I had ideas, but the twists were unexpected. I love all her friendships, her bond with her daughter, and the seriously slow burn romance between Kat and Daniel. As always, I was deeply immersed in the setting of Victorian London, which gave this an authentic feel. I can't wait for more of Kat's adventures, and I want her and Daniel happy already!
What a perfect prompt to read this book for! I love this series so much, and watching Kat with all her friends trying to solve a case in which her best friend's husband was implicated(well, two cases), was a journey I couldn't help but be immersed in. The financial stuff went over my head as I'm horrible at math, but I was surprised about the ending. I had ideas, but the twists were unexpected. I love all her friendships, her bond with her daughter, and the seriously slow burn romance between Kat and Daniel. As always, I was deeply immersed in the setting of Victorian London, which gave this an authentic feel. I can't wait for more of Kat's adventures, and I want her and Daniel happy already!
August 14, 2024
Speculations in Sin is the seventh full length title in the Kat Holloway (Below Stairs) Mysteries, following the adventures of Mayfair cook and local sleuth, Kat Holloway. While each story is an independent mystery, the books are tightly linked together through the development of Kat’s personal growth and development of several relationships. This time around, the foster father of her daughter (and husband of her best friend) is arrested for murder. Once again, Kat is fighting to protect those she loves and the safety and well-being of her daughter.
Overall, Speculations in Sin is an entertaining story with an exciting mystery. One of the things I love about the Kat Holloway mysteries is the balance between the standalone mystery and Kat’s personal life. As the series progresses, those lines blur more and more since her entire group of friends and found family tend to be involved in the sleuthing, which makes the books that much better. I love that Kat has learned to trust others with her burden and continues to widen her circle.
As Kat’s character develops and she solves more cases, she has learn to trust her instincts, of which I approve. She’s able to gain more insight into how the “bad guys” think and can provide excellent hypotheses. She’s also grown bolder, even though she attempts to be mindful of her station. But I feel like she’s spending an uncomfortable amount of time with those from the “upstairs” because of her unconventional friendships. I’m surprised her employer hasn’t said more about it.
My favorite parts are those surrounding her personal life. I love getting to see more of her daughter as she matures. Best of all is her budding relationship with Daniel. I adore how she opens up to him, and he to her, in this one. They have frank conversations about their dreams and fears.
Narration: Kat’s story is shared via her first person POV. The narrator provides a strong, working class female British accent, well suited to Kat’s role. Piazza changes up her performance for dialogue, adjusting for social class, gender, and age. She is most successful with the other females and the working class characters. Her males are slightly deeper, and generally, each character is unique. While overall I enjoy her performance tremendously, I don’t love her portrayal of Daniel, which has a whispery quality, making it difficult to follow and a bit too soft at times.
I continue to enjoy the Kat Holloway series, and I loved seeing her personal life continue to develop and flourish.
My Ratings:
Story: B+
Narration: B+
Overall, Speculations in Sin is an entertaining story with an exciting mystery. One of the things I love about the Kat Holloway mysteries is the balance between the standalone mystery and Kat’s personal life. As the series progresses, those lines blur more and more since her entire group of friends and found family tend to be involved in the sleuthing, which makes the books that much better. I love that Kat has learned to trust others with her burden and continues to widen her circle.
As Kat’s character develops and she solves more cases, she has learn to trust her instincts, of which I approve. She’s able to gain more insight into how the “bad guys” think and can provide excellent hypotheses. She’s also grown bolder, even though she attempts to be mindful of her station. But I feel like she’s spending an uncomfortable amount of time with those from the “upstairs” because of her unconventional friendships. I’m surprised her employer hasn’t said more about it.
My favorite parts are those surrounding her personal life. I love getting to see more of her daughter as she matures. Best of all is her budding relationship with Daniel. I adore how she opens up to him, and he to her, in this one. They have frank conversations about their dreams and fears.
Narration: Kat’s story is shared via her first person POV. The narrator provides a strong, working class female British accent, well suited to Kat’s role. Piazza changes up her performance for dialogue, adjusting for social class, gender, and age. She is most successful with the other females and the working class characters. Her males are slightly deeper, and generally, each character is unique. While overall I enjoy her performance tremendously, I don’t love her portrayal of Daniel, which has a whispery quality, making it difficult to follow and a bit too soft at times.
I continue to enjoy the Kat Holloway series, and I loved seeing her personal life continue to develop and flourish.
My Ratings:
Story: B+
Narration: B+
April 21, 2024
Five star, for sure! This is Kat Holloway. Need I say more? As usual, the process of collecting evidence is far from boring. Though mixed with emotion because the case Kat was dealing with is threatening the lives of people dearest to her, including Grace, we can always count on her to keep cool in dire times. It adds to my joy that Kat's relationship with Daniel is closer than ever, no longer pretending to be something they're not, no longer denying the obvious. The climax were intense. The ending was sweet and warmed my heart. As usual, I can't get enough of Kat and Daniel. Jennifer Ashley keep making me want more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2024
MY RATING GUIDE: 5 Stars. Except for recent novella, the Kat Hollway Below Stairs titles have become favorite titles. I look forward to new releases and enjoy revisiting the characters like old friends. I would enjoy reading this again, at some point.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I liked this a lot; 5= I LOVED THIS; it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
London, January 1883 ~
Mrs. Kat Holloway’s dear childhood friend, Joanna, & her husband, Sam Millburn, board and care for Kat’s daughter, Grace, as Kat works long hours as a cook in a fine Mayfair household. Sam is employed as a clerk in a private international investment bank in London. Sam has just been accused of embezzlement and is being threatened by his supervisors for the crime. Kat has known Sam for 15yrs and believes he is innocent and is being set up as someone’s scapegoat. Kat has no power of her own but she knows clever people and others with either power or influence or both. Kat decides she will do what she must to clear Sam’s name, and get him out of Newgate prison.
Daniel McAdam is a man-of-all-jobs and an occasional investigator for a mercurial Scotland Yard man connected to government business. Daniel is a dear friend of Kat, raised on the streets, and will use all his skills to assist Kat and her friends. But danger is already brewing.
Quotes ~
> “ Sometimes we have to plow through the bad things to find the good things once more.” Kat
“Such a wise woman you are, Mrs Holloway. Wisdom and beauty in one wonderful lady.” Daniel
> “The world isn’t an easy place is it?” “The life one wants doesn’t come from wishing. One has to work hard and plan, and be clever and brave. All those things I do not feel at the moment.” Kat
Comments ~
1) SPECULATIONS IN SIN is bk 7 in the Kat Holloway Below Stairs Mysteries. I prefer reading the books in order as the characters and their relationships continue to develop from book to book. Each book contains its own conflict and resolution, however, and could be read (although not ideally) out of order.
2) SPECULATIONS points out the injustices of the criminal system toward people without wealth, power or influence in the late 1800’s. At times this is depressing because some things never change.
3) We finally learn more about Daniel’s past. A considerable amount of Daniel’s background comes forth during SPECULATIONS. It’s like finding the missing pieces to a puzzle which have been stalling us for a long time.
4) Goodness. These characters need to remember a stealthy plan is wiser than rushing ahead in anger. Although the latter may work, again it may not.
5) I was relieved that the evil villains received their just desserts (which seldom occurs irl, it seems).
READER CAUTION ~
This book contains minimal or no profanity, minimal on scene violence and no intimacy scenes. Suitable for most Mystery readers.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I liked this a lot; 5= I LOVED THIS; it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
London, January 1883 ~
Mrs. Kat Holloway’s dear childhood friend, Joanna, & her husband, Sam Millburn, board and care for Kat’s daughter, Grace, as Kat works long hours as a cook in a fine Mayfair household. Sam is employed as a clerk in a private international investment bank in London. Sam has just been accused of embezzlement and is being threatened by his supervisors for the crime. Kat has known Sam for 15yrs and believes he is innocent and is being set up as someone’s scapegoat. Kat has no power of her own but she knows clever people and others with either power or influence or both. Kat decides she will do what she must to clear Sam’s name, and get him out of Newgate prison.
Daniel McAdam is a man-of-all-jobs and an occasional investigator for a mercurial Scotland Yard man connected to government business. Daniel is a dear friend of Kat, raised on the streets, and will use all his skills to assist Kat and her friends. But danger is already brewing.
Quotes ~
> “ Sometimes we have to plow through the bad things to find the good things once more.” Kat
“Such a wise woman you are, Mrs Holloway. Wisdom and beauty in one wonderful lady.” Daniel
> “The world isn’t an easy place is it?” “The life one wants doesn’t come from wishing. One has to work hard and plan, and be clever and brave. All those things I do not feel at the moment.” Kat
Comments ~
1) SPECULATIONS IN SIN is bk 7 in the Kat Holloway Below Stairs Mysteries. I prefer reading the books in order as the characters and their relationships continue to develop from book to book. Each book contains its own conflict and resolution, however, and could be read (although not ideally) out of order.
2) SPECULATIONS points out the injustices of the criminal system toward people without wealth, power or influence in the late 1800’s. At times this is depressing because some things never change.
3) We finally learn more about Daniel’s past. A considerable amount of Daniel’s background comes forth during SPECULATIONS. It’s like finding the missing pieces to a puzzle which have been stalling us for a long time.
4) Goodness. These characters need to remember a stealthy plan is wiser than rushing ahead in anger. Although the latter may work, again it may not.
5) I was relieved that the evil villains received their just desserts (which seldom occurs irl, it seems).
READER CAUTION ~
This book contains minimal or no profanity, minimal on scene violence and no intimacy scenes. Suitable for most Mystery readers.
October 2, 2023
The mystery - embezzlement and murder at a prestigious investment firm - while engaging with many plausible suspects, becomes an aside when you care about the development of the wonderful characters in this series. It is always enjoyable to meet up again with Mrs. Holloway and her coworkers, friends, family, and love interest.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2024
As much as I enjoy this series and its characters, it’s getting a little tedious. There was nothing in this book that moved any of the overarching plots forward.
March 28, 2024
Kit Holloway is a force to be reckoned with in Speculations in Sin. After a dear friend's husband is arrested for murder, Kit uses her skills and connections to prove their
innocence. Another winner for Ms. Ashley!
innocence. Another winner for Ms. Ashley!
April 2, 2024
5 Stars
Great read. More cookery and sleuthing... we are learning more about Daniel
Great read. More cookery and sleuthing... we are learning more about Daniel
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