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Countess of Harleigh Mystery #1
A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder
In this exciting historical mystery debut set in Victorian England, a wealthy young widow encounters the pleasures—and scandalous pitfalls—of a London social season . . .
Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, enjoys more freedom as a widow than she did as a wife. After an obligatory year spent mourning her philandering husband, Reggie, she puts aside her drab black gowns, leaving the countryside and her money-grubbing in-laws behind. With her young daughter in tow, Frances rents a home in Belgravia and prepares to welcome her sister, Lily, arriving from New York—for her first London season.
No sooner has Frances begun her new life than the ghosts of her old one make an unwelcome appearance. The Metropolitan police receive an anonymous letter implicating Frances in her husband’s death. Frances assures Inspector Delaney of her innocence, but she’s also keen to keep him from learning the scandalous circumstances of Reggie’s demise. As fate would have it, her dashing new neighbor, George Hazelton, is one of only two other people aware of the full story.
While busy with social engagements on Lily’s behalf, and worrying if Reggie really was murdered, Frances learns of mysterious burglaries plaguing London’s elite. The investigation brings death to her doorstep, and Frances rallies her wits, a circle of gossips, and the ever-chivalrous Mr. Hazelton to uncover the truth. A killer is in their midst, perhaps even among her sister’s suitors. And Frances must unmask the villain before Lily’s season—and their lives—come to a most unseemly end . . .
Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, enjoys more freedom as a widow than she did as a wife. After an obligatory year spent mourning her philandering husband, Reggie, she puts aside her drab black gowns, leaving the countryside and her money-grubbing in-laws behind. With her young daughter in tow, Frances rents a home in Belgravia and prepares to welcome her sister, Lily, arriving from New York—for her first London season.
No sooner has Frances begun her new life than the ghosts of her old one make an unwelcome appearance. The Metropolitan police receive an anonymous letter implicating Frances in her husband’s death. Frances assures Inspector Delaney of her innocence, but she’s also keen to keep him from learning the scandalous circumstances of Reggie’s demise. As fate would have it, her dashing new neighbor, George Hazelton, is one of only two other people aware of the full story.
While busy with social engagements on Lily’s behalf, and worrying if Reggie really was murdered, Frances learns of mysterious burglaries plaguing London’s elite. The investigation brings death to her doorstep, and Frances rallies her wits, a circle of gossips, and the ever-chivalrous Mr. Hazelton to uncover the truth. A killer is in their midst, perhaps even among her sister’s suitors. And Frances must unmask the villain before Lily’s season—and their lives—come to a most unseemly end . . .
272 pages, Hardcover
First published June 26, 2018
About the author
Dianne Freeman
9 books1,244 followersDianne Freeman is the acclaimed author of the Countess of Harleigh Mystery series. She is an Agatha Award and Lefty Award winner, as well as a finalist for the prestigious Mary Higgins Clark Award from Mystery Writers of America. After thirty years of working in corporate accounting and finance, she now writes full-time. Born and raised in Michigan, she and her husband split their time between Michigan and Arizona. Visit her at www.DiFreeman.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,826 reviews
September 15, 2019
Sometimes I'm in the mood for something light and fun, and A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder fits the bill perfectly. It combines Victorian decorum with the intrigue of a murder mystery and adds in a dash of romance. What results is something altogether charming and enjoyable.
One of my favorite things about this story is that Frances, Countess of Harleigh, is strong, independent, and audacious at a time when women are expected to be meek and dependent on a man. She has just become widowed, and is now forced to live on her own and seek her place in the world. She does so with good humor, even as her circumstances become less fortunate.
The mystery in here is its one weak point. Instead of having lots of clues so the reader can join in and figure out whodunnit, we more or less follow along as Frances pokes around, discovers things, and eventually is led to the guilty party. It's all very straightforward without any cleverness or eureka moments involved.
Even with that one weakness, I still greatly enjoyed this story. The characters in here are all extremely endearing and adorably witty, and Frances is the perfect focal point. I'll read pretty much any story with a strong female lead, so this has me hooked. Good thing it's the start of a series, and I can't wait to read more.
One of my favorite things about this story is that Frances, Countess of Harleigh, is strong, independent, and audacious at a time when women are expected to be meek and dependent on a man. She has just become widowed, and is now forced to live on her own and seek her place in the world. She does so with good humor, even as her circumstances become less fortunate.
The mystery in here is its one weak point. Instead of having lots of clues so the reader can join in and figure out whodunnit, we more or less follow along as Frances pokes around, discovers things, and eventually is led to the guilty party. It's all very straightforward without any cleverness or eureka moments involved.
Even with that one weakness, I still greatly enjoyed this story. The characters in here are all extremely endearing and adorably witty, and Frances is the perfect focal point. I'll read pretty much any story with a strong female lead, so this has me hooked. Good thing it's the start of a series, and I can't wait to read more.
May 31, 2018
A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder by Dianne Freeman is the first book in the A Countess of Harleigh Mystery series. This series is a bit of a different take on the average cozy mystery in that it has a historical setting mixing both genres wonderfully.
Frances Wynn is an American that was born to a wealthy family that found herself in an arranged marriage to her husband, Reggie, that brought Frances the title of the Countess of Harleigh and her husband access to her family funds. In the beginning Frances thought she could learn to love her husband but as time went on she began to see the man he truly was.
One night Frances was awakened by a house guest who seemed to be extremely upset, it seems that Frances’ husband Reggie had been in the lady’s bed and passed from a heart attack. To save them all scandal Reggie’s body had been moved back to his own room, the doctor called to pronounce his departure and Reggie buried putting Frances into a season of mourning.
Now that Frances’ mourning season is coming to an end a year later she finds that she finally feels free of her philandering husband and his money hungry family. Frances purchases her own home where she’s invited her younger sister Lily to prepare for her first London season. However, before Frances really gets settled she gets a visit from the law claiming they have reason to look into Reggie’s death as a possible homicide leaving Frances to set about finding out what really happened before she’s accused of a crime.
Taking a cozy mystery into the past giving it a historical setting had A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder a fun read right from the start. I wasn’t sure how the historical side would mix with the leading lady going about investigating on her own but the author worked it all into the mix quite nicely keeping the feel of those times. With this being the first of a new series I’m really excited to see what happened next for Frances and the rest of the characters.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more review please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Frances Wynn is an American that was born to a wealthy family that found herself in an arranged marriage to her husband, Reggie, that brought Frances the title of the Countess of Harleigh and her husband access to her family funds. In the beginning Frances thought she could learn to love her husband but as time went on she began to see the man he truly was.
One night Frances was awakened by a house guest who seemed to be extremely upset, it seems that Frances’ husband Reggie had been in the lady’s bed and passed from a heart attack. To save them all scandal Reggie’s body had been moved back to his own room, the doctor called to pronounce his departure and Reggie buried putting Frances into a season of mourning.
Now that Frances’ mourning season is coming to an end a year later she finds that she finally feels free of her philandering husband and his money hungry family. Frances purchases her own home where she’s invited her younger sister Lily to prepare for her first London season. However, before Frances really gets settled she gets a visit from the law claiming they have reason to look into Reggie’s death as a possible homicide leaving Frances to set about finding out what really happened before she’s accused of a crime.
Taking a cozy mystery into the past giving it a historical setting had A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder a fun read right from the start. I wasn’t sure how the historical side would mix with the leading lady going about investigating on her own but the author worked it all into the mix quite nicely keeping the feel of those times. With this being the first of a new series I’m really excited to see what happened next for Frances and the rest of the characters.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more review please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 14, 2023
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My mom actually recommended this series to me and I have the first five books in the series loaded up on my Kindle (thanks, KU!), but I haven't really been in the mood for "cozy mystery." Until now.
This series is so cute. It's narrated in first person from the point of view of the Countess of Harleigh, Frances Wynn. Frances, newly widowed, is now a single mother, and the prey of her greedy relations. They've looked down on her for being American and a woman, but they're not too good to take her American money to restore the house.
When Frances puts an end to that by getting a house of her own, to live in with her daughter, Rose, that seems like it will be the end of it. But then her sister, Lily, and Aunt Hetty come, and Lily (who is younger) starts courting some men of potentially dubious intentions and provenance, it falls to Frances to vet her sister's dates.
Which is a daunting enough task without the prospect of murder.
I don't want to say too much because less is more, but I thought the mystery element was really well done. I didn't guess who it was. Maybe I could have if I'd tried harder, but I was mostly just happy to go along with the ride. I loved Frances's voice, and even though she could be PAINFULLY obtuse at times, she had a quick mind and it was fun to read a book about a single mom character with a kid who wasn't bratty (I'm reading another right now where the kid IS bratty and that's okay but still, yikes).
Oh, AND the love interest for Frances is one of those human golden retriever type guys AND he wears glasses. Usually my favorite pairing with the no-nonsense female type in hist-rom is the duke of slut, but apparently I also ship no-nonsenses and golden retrievers, too. AND I've been assured that he's a continued presence in the future books too, HUZZAH.
So my mom was right about this book. It's light and fun and perfect for those days where you want to know "who did the bad thing and with what instrument?" but not worry about the kids or the dog.
3.5 to 4 stars
February 11, 2023
I had so much fun reading this book. Some because the book is awesome and some because I was buddy reading it with Deema ♡ and she is even more awesome 💜
Frances lost her husband a year ago and after a year of customary mourning she is ready to regain her freedom. Despite her in-laws’ objections, she buys a house and moves to London.
However, the city proves to be way more exciting than she had expected; first a visit from the police claiming that her husband had not died of natural causes, then the polite society is shaken by a series of thefts…. Frances is determined to solve all mysteries, especially since the culprit may be among her sister’s suitors! Luckily her charming and handsome neighbor George is more than happy to help 😍
I adored this book, it was exactly what I needed; a light, cozy mystery with a touch of romance and lovable characters. The story was entertaining and the writing easy to follow.
Trying to solve the mystery and chatting about it made the reading experience even more enjoyable, so I highly recommended this book for buddy reads!
Can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
Frances lost her husband a year ago and after a year of customary mourning she is ready to regain her freedom. Despite her in-laws’ objections, she buys a house and moves to London.
However, the city proves to be way more exciting than she had expected; first a visit from the police claiming that her husband had not died of natural causes, then the polite society is shaken by a series of thefts…. Frances is determined to solve all mysteries, especially since the culprit may be among her sister’s suitors! Luckily her charming and handsome neighbor George is more than happy to help 😍
I adored this book, it was exactly what I needed; a light, cozy mystery with a touch of romance and lovable characters. The story was entertaining and the writing easy to follow.
Trying to solve the mystery and chatting about it made the reading experience even more enjoyable, so I highly recommended this book for buddy reads!
Can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
September 29, 2020
I read book three first by mistake and had to read this one to discover how the main characters actually met. I was not surprised to discover it was over a dead body. Well they already knew each other but it was the dead body incident which sparked their relationship!
This was a very entertaining romp around Victorian England with crumbling ancestral piles, American heiresses, gentlemen and cads. Men control the world, women are second rate citizens, the poor are very poor and the rich are (not always) rich.
I enjoyed the mystery and was surprised when the murderer was revealed. Now on to book two to fill in all the gaps.
This was a very entertaining romp around Victorian England with crumbling ancestral piles, American heiresses, gentlemen and cads. Men control the world, women are second rate citizens, the poor are very poor and the rich are (not always) rich.
I enjoyed the mystery and was surprised when the murderer was revealed. Now on to book two to fill in all the gaps.
September 15, 2022
I enjoyed it and loved most of the characters!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
March 19, 2022
3.5 STARS
Light, easy historical/cozy/ mystery.
I was looking for a new historical, cozy type read that was a series, and this one had a cute cover, but was a bit of a mixed bag for me. It delivered on the Victorian setting and the "Downton Abbey" type of household, but not so much on the mystery and suspense aspect.
It has a little humor, intelligent characters and some female sleuths. I would have enjoyed it more if had been a bit shorter, it moved a little too slowing after 60% mark. The dreaded yawning.
This was a library and loan and I may give book two a try and see if the story line picks up the pace!
Light, easy historical/cozy/ mystery.
I was looking for a new historical, cozy type read that was a series, and this one had a cute cover, but was a bit of a mixed bag for me. It delivered on the Victorian setting and the "Downton Abbey" type of household, but not so much on the mystery and suspense aspect.
It has a little humor, intelligent characters and some female sleuths. I would have enjoyed it more if had been a bit shorter, it moved a little too slowing after 60% mark. The dreaded yawning.
This was a library and loan and I may give book two a try and see if the story line picks up the pace!
May 2, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up due to adorableness.
I enjoyed this cute little Victorian mystery. It wasn’t groundbreaking by any means but I liked Frances, the main character, and found her growth towards independence as she solved two murders, to be very engaging. A great cast of side characters and interesting setting, made for a cozy and diverting read. As this was the first book in a series, it did bear the weight of a set up book, introducing many characters and developing the background for further capers, so it dragged a bit in the middle. I would have liked the plot to have been tighter and a little more focus on the procedural part of investigating. This also would have given more page time to George, the love interest, who had a background in law and potentially did some spying for the home office . I didn’t feel like we spent enough time with him or got to know him well enough, and I really wanted to. There were some very fun scenes of them investigating together, and I guess that makes me look forward to reading more.
Overall a nice intro to a potentially interesting series.
I enjoyed this cute little Victorian mystery. It wasn’t groundbreaking by any means but I liked Frances, the main character, and found her growth towards independence as she solved two murders, to be very engaging. A great cast of side characters and interesting setting, made for a cozy and diverting read. As this was the first book in a series, it did bear the weight of a set up book, introducing many characters and developing the background for further capers, so it dragged a bit in the middle. I would have liked the plot to have been tighter and a little more focus on the procedural part of investigating. This also would have given more page time to George, the love interest, who had a background in law and potentially did some spying for the home office . I didn’t feel like we spent enough time with him or got to know him well enough, and I really wanted to. There were some very fun scenes of them investigating together, and I guess that makes me look forward to reading more.
Overall a nice intro to a potentially interesting series.
May 8, 2021
A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder by Dianne Freeman
1st book in A Countess of Harleigh Mystery series. Historical cozy mystery.
Countess Frances Wynn moved to Belgravia (town) after the societal year of mourning her husband’s death. Since he was a cheat, and her in-laws just want money, Frances is pleased to be back in society with more freedom as a widow. Francis and her maid Bridget take on an amateur sleuthing role with support from neighbor George Hazelton and an Inspector from the Metropolitan police. Someone is stealing jewelry and Frances thinks she can help find the thief.
Cozy mystery style adventure as Frances learns to ask the right questions. It’s amusing as she gets involved and she realizes her servants know things and can help her investigate. Being accused of her late husband’s death adds to the confusion. Strength and fortitude in her corner, Frances is determined to find answers.
Enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the growth in her skills and the just blooming romance in future books.
I received a paperback copy from Kensington a few years back at a convention. I alternated reading with an audio version which brought the starch to this fun read.
1st book in A Countess of Harleigh Mystery series. Historical cozy mystery.
Countess Frances Wynn moved to Belgravia (town) after the societal year of mourning her husband’s death. Since he was a cheat, and her in-laws just want money, Frances is pleased to be back in society with more freedom as a widow. Francis and her maid Bridget take on an amateur sleuthing role with support from neighbor George Hazelton and an Inspector from the Metropolitan police. Someone is stealing jewelry and Frances thinks she can help find the thief.
Cozy mystery style adventure as Frances learns to ask the right questions. It’s amusing as she gets involved and she realizes her servants know things and can help her investigate. Being accused of her late husband’s death adds to the confusion. Strength and fortitude in her corner, Frances is determined to find answers.
Enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the growth in her skills and the just blooming romance in future books.
I received a paperback copy from Kensington a few years back at a convention. I alternated reading with an audio version which brought the starch to this fun read.
May 31, 2024
3.5⭐️ Rounded up for the feels and the promise of things to come. Thank you, Kristina for your review of “A Newlywed’s Guide to Fortune and Murder,” and your recommendation to start at the beginning of the series. After sampling a few historical mysteries, here’s one I wanted to cuddle up with.
It was a bit anachronistic and the heroine, Frances, could have been brighter, but she was relatable and not full of herself. The rest of the ensemble, Lily, Rose, Aunt Hetty, Fiona, the black and white kitten, were likable. I’m looking forward to learning more about them. I’m guessing Delaney will be back, and hoping Alicia will return. Last but not least was George. When he was near Frances his restrained ardor compelled my romantic heart to go pitty-pat.
The characters, mild humor, setting, pacing, and unexpected events, made for a page turning beach or lolling-outside-on-the-patio-under-a-shady-tree read.
The third act drama resembled a shell game rather than an impeccable puzzle clicking into place. However, what came before was so charming, I was okay with it.
It was a bit anachronistic and the heroine, Frances, could have been brighter, but she was relatable and not full of herself. The rest of the ensemble, Lily, Rose, Aunt Hetty, Fiona, the black and white kitten, were likable. I’m looking forward to learning more about them. I’m guessing Delaney will be back, and hoping Alicia will return. Last but not least was George. When he was near Frances his restrained ardor compelled my romantic heart to go pitty-pat.
The characters, mild humor, setting, pacing, and unexpected events, made for a page turning beach or lolling-outside-on-the-patio-under-a-shady-tree read.
The third act drama resembled a shell game rather than an impeccable puzzle clicking into place. However, what came before was so charming, I was okay with it.
July 13, 2023
2.5 Sleuthing Stars
Thoughts:
Short-ish and sweet read, so I’m going to leave this review the same.
Overall a little underwhelmed. I wanted to love this more than I did. Sadly, I couldn’t find myself as attached to the characters. It was a little dull and dragged at points. The plot line was hard to find at times too, which made using our detective skills a little difficult. I know this was the set-up to the series being book one, so I am hoping that these get better as we go.
What I did love was the slight touches of romance! This isn’t a romance series, but the chemistry between George and Frances is mild but still so adorable. I also enjoyed some of the side character storylines. The only thing I didn’t like about the side character storylines is when they started taking over the main plot. The main focus of the story got lost at several moments because of it.
As a whole this was light-hearted and cute! I will still continue this series for now as I am intrigued, and am craving the cozy mystery vibes!
The Sherlock to my Watson, Lyra was such a skilled detective! Had fun reading this together, and I am excited for the next one!
P.S. Lyra shipping the detective and our MC is my favorite thing ever!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes-ish: Those who love historical fiction with a dash of mystery!
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-Book!
How did I discover this:
Deema’s and Dab’s reviews brought me here!
Pace:
Slowish to Medium
POV:
Frances
Quotes:
”One can’t help but admire an independent woman.”
“You have a beautiful heart, Frances.”
“We must find a gentleman in this house who is so chivalrous, he would move a dead body for a lady, and has so much integrity, he would never use that favor against her. Is there such a paragon on this earth?”
Triggers:
Death, Violence, Sexism, Grief, Infidelity, Classism. etc.
🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜
Buddy read with my lil detective, Lyra! Let's see if we can figure this mystery out together, love! 🕵️♀️💜
Thoughts:
Short-ish and sweet read, so I’m going to leave this review the same.
Overall a little underwhelmed. I wanted to love this more than I did. Sadly, I couldn’t find myself as attached to the characters. It was a little dull and dragged at points. The plot line was hard to find at times too, which made using our detective skills a little difficult. I know this was the set-up to the series being book one, so I am hoping that these get better as we go.
What I did love was the slight touches of romance! This isn’t a romance series, but the chemistry between George and Frances is mild but still so adorable. I also enjoyed some of the side character storylines. The only thing I didn’t like about the side character storylines is when they started taking over the main plot. The main focus of the story got lost at several moments because of it.
As a whole this was light-hearted and cute! I will still continue this series for now as I am intrigued, and am craving the cozy mystery vibes!
The Sherlock to my Watson, Lyra was such a skilled detective! Had fun reading this together, and I am excited for the next one!
P.S. Lyra shipping the detective and our MC is my favorite thing ever!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes-ish: Those who love historical fiction with a dash of mystery!
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-Book!
How did I discover this:
Deema’s and Dab’s reviews brought me here!
Pace:
Slowish to Medium
POV:
Frances
Quotes:
”One can’t help but admire an independent woman.”
“You have a beautiful heart, Frances.”
“We must find a gentleman in this house who is so chivalrous, he would move a dead body for a lady, and has so much integrity, he would never use that favor against her. Is there such a paragon on this earth?”
Triggers:
Death, Violence, Sexism, Grief, Infidelity, Classism. etc.
🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜🕵️♀️💜
Buddy read with my lil detective, Lyra! Let's see if we can figure this mystery out together, love! 🕵️♀️💜
September 25, 2020
Reseña completa: https://masromance.blogspot.com/2020/...
3.5 ★ y le hubiera puesto las 4 si el final hubiera sido de otra forma
Muy entretenido.
Bien escrito.
Bien ambientado, me ha recordado a las novelas de George Hayer y sí.
Ese toque de ironía que mantiene todas las conversaciones y más de una escena me ha gustado mucho, la verdad es que es difícil de conseguir y, si me apuráis y, a mucha distancia, creo que es la misma ironía que podemos encontrar en algunas frases de Elizabeth Bennet
He disfrutado mucho, en serio, mucho más de lo que me esperaba. Mi problema ha sido que después de todo el suspense, la resulución me ha parecido demasiado previsible y desarrollada de forma algo precipitada.
No sé si mi edición está inclompleta porque mi edición en papel son solo 366 páginas
Hay un tema inconcluso y me da a mí que es posible que sea el primero de una serie, las puertas quedan muy abiertas
3.5 ★ y le hubiera puesto las 4 si el final hubiera sido de otra forma
Muy entretenido.
Bien escrito.
Bien ambientado, me ha recordado a las novelas de George Hayer y sí.
Ese toque de ironía que mantiene todas las conversaciones y más de una escena me ha gustado mucho, la verdad es que es difícil de conseguir y, si me apuráis y, a mucha distancia, creo que es la misma ironía que podemos encontrar en algunas frases de Elizabeth Bennet
He disfrutado mucho, en serio, mucho más de lo que me esperaba. Mi problema ha sido que después de todo el suspense, la resulución me ha parecido demasiado previsible y desarrollada de forma algo precipitada.
No sé si mi edición está inclompleta porque mi edición en papel son solo 366 páginas
Hay un tema inconcluso y me da a mí que es posible que sea el primero de una serie, las puertas quedan muy abiertas
July 15, 2018
I can describe this book very shortly, it's like Downton Abbey in a book :) I'm a fan of Downton Abbey and it certainly reminded me of the setting, characters and life style I was watching there. Even some details were the same, so I'm wondering if the writer took 'inspiration' from there.
It was a really cute, cozy mystery set in London. Our protagonist is the Countess of Harleigh. She's an American, who married into British aristocracy bringing her father's money into the family. Suddenly one night her husband dies of heart attack while he was with another woman, and our story unfolds from there. Lady Harleigh moves to London to her own house, after a year's mourning. Her sister comes from America to be introduced in the London season. But, weird things start to happen like stolen jewellery, etc. our characters try to unlock the mystery behind these all, while we continue to enjoy the cute, easy and enchanting writing of Freeman.
It's a perfect summer cozy mystery book that I enjoyed a lot. The mystery also tied up very well in the end. I thought it was very well thought of. I'm pleasantly surprised with this book. Definitely recommended.
I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 , because I thought Freeman took a bit of time from the beginning to the point she started to put clues and tension into the mystery. I wish that time was shorter.
But, all in all, I enjoyed it and would read from her again.
Thanks a lot to NetGalley and the publisher for granting a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
It was a really cute, cozy mystery set in London. Our protagonist is the Countess of Harleigh. She's an American, who married into British aristocracy bringing her father's money into the family. Suddenly one night her husband dies of heart attack while he was with another woman, and our story unfolds from there. Lady Harleigh moves to London to her own house, after a year's mourning. Her sister comes from America to be introduced in the London season. But, weird things start to happen like stolen jewellery, etc. our characters try to unlock the mystery behind these all, while we continue to enjoy the cute, easy and enchanting writing of Freeman.
It's a perfect summer cozy mystery book that I enjoyed a lot. The mystery also tied up very well in the end. I thought it was very well thought of. I'm pleasantly surprised with this book. Definitely recommended.
I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 , because I thought Freeman took a bit of time from the beginning to the point she started to put clues and tension into the mystery. I wish that time was shorter.
But, all in all, I enjoyed it and would read from her again.
Thanks a lot to NetGalley and the publisher for granting a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2019
This is a bit of a weak mystery coupled with a weak romance that has some strong characters and a vivid setting and interesting background. So it mostly worked for me as long as I was content to just read along (as opposed to figuring out the mystery or engaging in the romance).
I liked Frances right from the start when she makes her bid for independence. I liked that she just kept rolling with all the setbacks and doing her best taking them in stride one at a time. And I liked the friends and employees she gathers to herself now that she's free to make choices and how they fit together in their household.
And I enjoyed her growing partnership with George once she started letting it happen. He's got hidden depths and I loved seeing how intrigued he became when he realized that her hidden depths were so appealing to him. It frustrated me for a good half of the novel how hard she worked at avoiding him, though. I mean, we learn very early that he is protecting her deepest secret and doing so completely unremunerated and with respect. He's literally the last person she needs to worry about trusting and yet she spends no small amount of effort ditching and bobbing and weaving to avoid him. It just made no sense. That lifts in the latter half of the story, but it left too little time to resolve a romance by that time. So it's just as well that Freeman didn't try stuffing one in and it looks like the plan is for a slow-burn over multiple volumes. Which can be lovely, but we'll see how it goes in the next before I'll know if I like it or not.
Anyway, the mystery is weaksauce with the eventual villain having a personality change in the "let me explain my plot to you" scene so it was pretty much impossible to deduce the truth in advance. Also, the first quarter of the story or so features Frances being kind of stupid about "oh, no, they couldn't possibly" for way too many people (particularly badly with her in-laws who totally didn't deserve her forbearance). I enjoyed the setup for future stories involving the police detective and whatever the heck George turns out to be, but this initial mystery really should have been better since it's meant to establish the series.
So this is a 3½ish story that I'll round up because I enjoyed Frances so much. She had me laughing out loud enough that rounding down just isn't going to work for me.
A note about Chaste: Like I said, there's no real progress on a romance in this one so it's absolutely chaste. There's enough hint of that slow-burn, though, that I'll still tag it as both romance and chaste, anyway.
I liked Frances right from the start when she makes her bid for independence. I liked that she just kept rolling with all the setbacks and doing her best taking them in stride one at a time. And I liked the friends and employees she gathers to herself now that she's free to make choices and how they fit together in their household.
And I enjoyed her growing partnership with George once she started letting it happen. He's got hidden depths and I loved seeing how intrigued he became when he realized that her hidden depths were so appealing to him. It frustrated me for a good half of the novel how hard she worked at avoiding him, though. I mean, we learn very early that he is protecting her deepest secret and doing so completely unremunerated and with respect. He's literally the last person she needs to worry about trusting and yet she spends no small amount of effort ditching and bobbing and weaving to avoid him. It just made no sense. That lifts in the latter half of the story, but it left too little time to resolve a romance by that time. So it's just as well that Freeman didn't try stuffing one in and it looks like the plan is for a slow-burn over multiple volumes. Which can be lovely, but we'll see how it goes in the next before I'll know if I like it or not.
Anyway, the mystery is weaksauce with the eventual villain having a personality change in the "let me explain my plot to you" scene so it was pretty much impossible to deduce the truth in advance. Also, the first quarter of the story or so features Frances being kind of stupid about "oh, no, they couldn't possibly" for way too many people (particularly badly with her in-laws who totally didn't deserve her forbearance). I enjoyed the setup for future stories involving the police detective and whatever the heck George turns out to be, but this initial mystery really should have been better since it's meant to establish the series.
So this is a 3½ish story that I'll round up because I enjoyed Frances so much. She had me laughing out loud enough that rounding down just isn't going to work for me.
A note about Chaste: Like I said, there's no real progress on a romance in this one so it's absolutely chaste. There's enough hint of that slow-burn, though, that I'll still tag it as both romance and chaste, anyway.
May 9, 2023
Totalnie mój klimat! Nie daję 5 ⭐️ tylko dlatego, że to nie będzie książka mojego życia. Świetnie się przy niej bawiłam, OGROMNIE podoba mi się to, że główna bohaterka się nie kitra ze swoją wiedzą, nie chachmęci, że autorka nie stara się za wszelką cenę namieszać między bohaterami przez niedopowiedzenia i kręcenie. Jeśli lubicie Downton Abbey z nutką kryminału, to bardzo polecam.
Edit minutę później: nie, zmieniam zdanie. Ta książka jest tak przyjemna, że zasługuje na moje 5 gwiazdek.
Edit minutę później: nie, zmieniam zdanie. Ta książka jest tak przyjemna, że zasługuje na moje 5 gwiazdek.
February 8, 2018
I loved this book on so many levels. I have not been a huge historical mystery reader, but this book has changed my view. I fell in love with the Victorian time period, and with Frances--who is a woman with a mind of her own. Her personality and wit shines throughout. There were moments I was laughing out loud and others where the writer had me concerned about the welfare of the characters I had come to love. The mystery was so well-plotted, I didn't know until the final reveal who was guilty, and was pleased at the outcome. This is a must read for any mystery lover and I'm anxiously awaiting Frances' next adventure.
January 26, 2023
Taki mix kryminału, komedii i romansu. Chętnie sięgnę po następne części.
May 20, 2018
A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder by Dianne Freeman was an excellent start to what I hope will be a long running historical cozy mystery series.
Ms. Freeman introduces us to the recently widowed Countess of Harleigh, Frances Wynn. She is a surprisingly strong young woman for Victorian times who has come into her own now that she is a widow and intends to enjoy her life with her daughter. The descriptive writing of London and the characters made me feel like I was there with Frances as she introduces her sister, Lily, into London society during her first season. She also begins her amateur sleuthing as there has been a rash of thefts at homes nearby, a man is found killed in her back garden, and there is an attempt on her life right on the streets of London. Suspense, subtle humor, only a few suspects, twists that had me confused and a startling reveal kept me turning the pages. I am already looking forward to the next one in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Ms. Freeman introduces us to the recently widowed Countess of Harleigh, Frances Wynn. She is a surprisingly strong young woman for Victorian times who has come into her own now that she is a widow and intends to enjoy her life with her daughter. The descriptive writing of London and the characters made me feel like I was there with Frances as she introduces her sister, Lily, into London society during her first season. She also begins her amateur sleuthing as there has been a rash of thefts at homes nearby, a man is found killed in her back garden, and there is an attempt on her life right on the streets of London. Suspense, subtle humor, only a few suspects, twists that had me confused and a startling reveal kept me turning the pages. I am already looking forward to the next one in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
March 8, 2018
Dianne Freeman’s debut novel, A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder, is a witty romp of a Victorial mystery. The heroine, Frances, is a recently widowed and coming out of mourning for her dead rake-of-husband. She is surprisingly perspicacious and her struggles with propriety and her journey to independence is delightful. There is an understated chemistry between her and the hero, that is smoldering before bursting into flame. The mystery is well-plotted and full of twists. Freeman does an excellent job of capturing London in the heyday of the late nineteenth century with its culturally ingrained social mores.
June 27, 2018
I've missed Downton Abbey so very much. Thankfully, the witty and fast-paced "A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder" has helped fill the aching void. When American heiress Frances Wynn becomes a widow in 1899 after the death of her philandering Earl of a husband, she decides to risk British society gossip by living independent of her dead husband's money-grubbing family. Deception, romance, and scandal ensue, keeping this reader enthralled until the very end. This smart, tightly-written mystery kicks off what is sure to be a winning series.
February 13, 2018
As soon as I started "A Lady's Guide," I knew it was right up my alley. If you're a fan of Tasha Alexander's Lady Emily series or Anna Lee Huber's Lady Darby mysteries, you will love this as much as I did. Personally, I'm always looking for more series in this vein, and many of the others I've read tend to fall short. But Dianne Freeman brings Victorian London to life with her delightful prose. I also loved that her clever heroine happens to be an American who married into the aristocracy, which felt like a nice twist on the genre while still being completely historically accurate. I can't wait for book two!
February 7, 2018
This book is the mysterious historical romp of your dreams! Frances is just starting to come into her own as an independent woman, so her push/pull of propriety v. independence is a joy to behold. The mystery is well plotted and paced and the descriptions of Victorian fashion in this novel are to die for. (Pun intended.) This is the start of an incredible series!
February 11, 2018
I read a pre-published copy.
If you like the Victorian era, laughing, and headstrong heroines, this book is for you.
It’s a tightly plotted romp of a mystery that will keep you guessing to the end!
Can’t wait for a second book from Dianne Freeman.
If you like the Victorian era, laughing, and headstrong heroines, this book is for you.
It’s a tightly plotted romp of a mystery that will keep you guessing to the end!
Can’t wait for a second book from Dianne Freeman.
April 16, 2018
I love historical mysteries and especially when they are humorous and well-written! Freeman does a great job of making you feel like you've stepped back in time and the turn of the century was a fascinating era where life was changing incredibly fast.
Francis is an American heiress who married a deadbeat (emphasis on the dead part) English earl. But she's a widow who is ready to embrace life (and what is left of her money).
I think it takes deft writing to craft an historical mystery that avoids anachronisms and Freeman does a fantastic job.
I'm ready for the next one and looking forward to more about Francis's relationship with George (and hoping it heats up...)
Francis is an American heiress who married a deadbeat (emphasis on the dead part) English earl. But she's a widow who is ready to embrace life (and what is left of her money).
I think it takes deft writing to craft an historical mystery that avoids anachronisms and Freeman does a fantastic job.
I'm ready for the next one and looking forward to more about Francis's relationship with George (and hoping it heats up...)
April 28, 2018
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
After enduring a year-long mourning period with her gold-digging in-laws, Frances Wynn is eager to make her way to London with her seven-year-old daughter and settle down. Within a week she faces an accusatory inspector, the unexpected arrival of her sister's first Season, and the news of a series of home break-ins. To top it off, she finds out her new neighbor is the handsome George Hazelton, someone with whom she shares a complicated, dark secret. . .
As a new fan to historical mysteries, especially novels set in Victorian England, I was thrilled to be approved by Kensington and NetGalley to read this intriguing new novel. The cover is super cute, and the concept was innovative and fun. I'm happy to say the result was an exciting read, with compelling characters, and a surprise at every turn. I love that the author didn't make the romance the focal point of the story, and am excited to read book two to see where she takes us.
A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder is a hilarious and absorbing cozy mystery, and I'd highly recommend it to fans of anything from engrossing historical mysteries to light, sweet romances. A great read!
5/5
After enduring a year-long mourning period with her gold-digging in-laws, Frances Wynn is eager to make her way to London with her seven-year-old daughter and settle down. Within a week she faces an accusatory inspector, the unexpected arrival of her sister's first Season, and the news of a series of home break-ins. To top it off, she finds out her new neighbor is the handsome George Hazelton, someone with whom she shares a complicated, dark secret. . .
As a new fan to historical mysteries, especially novels set in Victorian England, I was thrilled to be approved by Kensington and NetGalley to read this intriguing new novel. The cover is super cute, and the concept was innovative and fun. I'm happy to say the result was an exciting read, with compelling characters, and a surprise at every turn. I love that the author didn't make the romance the focal point of the story, and am excited to read book two to see where she takes us.
A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder is a hilarious and absorbing cozy mystery, and I'd highly recommend it to fans of anything from engrossing historical mysteries to light, sweet romances. A great read!
5/5
May 17, 2018
Frances, Countess of Harleigh, moves her small household to London to escape the demands of her in-laws. Almost immediately, her life gets turned upside down when police approach her with questions about how her husband died, her younger sister arrives to be launched into society, her bank account is frozen from her brother-in-law attempting to claim her money, and a string of jewelry thefts happening all over society.
I absolutely adored Frances. Her practical attitude in spite of whatever she faced won me over from the start. She took action for what she thought was right but accepted the advice of those closest to her.
The plot moved at a good pace, and the supporting characters were excellent at just that: supporting. I learned just enough of each one that I look forward to seeing each of them in future adventures of Frances...and a handsome, charming neighbor.
This is an exceptional historical mystery, and I would recommend it to any reader.
I received a free copy through NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
I absolutely adored Frances. Her practical attitude in spite of whatever she faced won me over from the start. She took action for what she thought was right but accepted the advice of those closest to her.
The plot moved at a good pace, and the supporting characters were excellent at just that: supporting. I learned just enough of each one that I look forward to seeing each of them in future adventures of Frances...and a handsome, charming neighbor.
This is an exceptional historical mystery, and I would recommend it to any reader.
I received a free copy through NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
May 26, 2018
I knew this story would be the perfect fun read as soon as I saw the books cover. What an eye catcher :) From the minute I started this book, Dianne Freemans storyline left me wanting the book to never end!
I loved Francis...she is the perfect heroine; funny, witty, independent. Her adventures when she reaches London (and in the time of her cheating husbands death) are written with wit and made me laugh more than once.
The characters are well developed, and the story has everything you could want to curl up with; mystery, glamour, the 'evil' brother in law, romance. What's not to love :)
I liked the mystery as the main story with a slice of romance for flavor. I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for approving my request to read this book. Thank you to Dianne Freeman for an enjoyable escape into historical fun!! I am a dedicated fan :)
I loved Francis...she is the perfect heroine; funny, witty, independent. Her adventures when she reaches London (and in the time of her cheating husbands death) are written with wit and made me laugh more than once.
The characters are well developed, and the story has everything you could want to curl up with; mystery, glamour, the 'evil' brother in law, romance. What's not to love :)
I liked the mystery as the main story with a slice of romance for flavor. I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for approving my request to read this book. Thank you to Dianne Freeman for an enjoyable escape into historical fun!! I am a dedicated fan :)
May 7, 2018
What a wonderfully fun read! I love historical mysteries and this one was just great. The protagonist, a recently widowed member of the aristocracy (an American, at that!), who lives in the very late 19th century, in England, finds herself embroiled in not one, but several mysteries. The author does an excellent job of character and plot development. I had no problem getting into the story. I love that you don't necessarily know the culprits. You're discovering things right along with Frances. The secondary characters of her aunt and sister show promise - I can't wait to read their further adventures as well.
*I would like to thank the author/publisher/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fait and honest review*
*I would like to thank the author/publisher/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fait and honest review*
July 20, 2018
This book was amazing. A rule-following, yet feisty heroine who discovers her own strength and sense of purpose as shocking events unfold all around her. Plus an excessively charming next door neighbor leaves plenty of opportunity in the future. I was thoroughly engaged in this one, and sincerely hope there is indeed a 2nd Lady Harleigh mystery!
I received a copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from Kensington through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 26, 2024
Three and a half stars.
Countess of Harleigh, American born Frances Wynn, has more independence and freedom once she is a widow, that she ever had in her marriage. But there are some things about her philandering husband’s death that only a few select people know.
After a year of required mourning, Frances strikes out on her own. She leaves her money hungry brother-in-law Graham and his wide Delia., and with young daughter Rose, Frances rents a house in Belgravia. She is all ready to welcome her younger sister Lily who is arriving from New York for the London season.
However, the past is not so easy to leave behind, when Frances is implicated in her husband’s death. While Frances assures Inspector Delaney of her innocence, she still needs to keep him from finding out the details of her husband’s demise. And who is responsible for the series of burglaries happening with the elite of society? Can Frances solve this mystery as well as that of Reggie’s death? Or will she end up putting her life in danger? \and what part does George Hazelton play in all this?
I had read books 2 and 3 in this series and enjoyed them both very much which is why I went to back and picked up book 1. While I enjoyed this one, it didn’t grab me quite as easily as the later two. It just seemed a tad slow at times. I wondered if maybe if I had read it first I might not have read the others. Not sure. However, I am sure a lot of people who love cosies will love this one. An engaging read for those who like gentle, cosy mysteries with largely likeable characters and interesting historical setting,as well as the murder mystery. Such a cute cover too.
Countess of Harleigh, American born Frances Wynn, has more independence and freedom once she is a widow, that she ever had in her marriage. But there are some things about her philandering husband’s death that only a few select people know.
After a year of required mourning, Frances strikes out on her own. She leaves her money hungry brother-in-law Graham and his wide Delia., and with young daughter Rose, Frances rents a house in Belgravia. She is all ready to welcome her younger sister Lily who is arriving from New York for the London season.
However, the past is not so easy to leave behind, when Frances is implicated in her husband’s death. While Frances assures Inspector Delaney of her innocence, she still needs to keep him from finding out the details of her husband’s demise. And who is responsible for the series of burglaries happening with the elite of society? Can Frances solve this mystery as well as that of Reggie’s death? Or will she end up putting her life in danger? \and what part does George Hazelton play in all this?
I had read books 2 and 3 in this series and enjoyed them both very much which is why I went to back and picked up book 1. While I enjoyed this one, it didn’t grab me quite as easily as the later two. It just seemed a tad slow at times. I wondered if maybe if I had read it first I might not have read the others. Not sure. However, I am sure a lot of people who love cosies will love this one. An engaging read for those who like gentle, cosy mysteries with largely likeable characters and interesting historical setting,as well as the murder mystery. Such a cute cover too.
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