A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Murder
Cover via GoodreadsA lady’s Guide to Mischief and Murder
by Dianne Freeman
Edition: ARC, 2020
Synopsis: London is known for its bustle and intrigues, but the sedate English countryside can host–or hide–any number of secrets. Frances, the widowed Countess of Harleigh, needs a venue for her sister Lily’s imminent wedding, away from prying eyes. Risings, George Hazleton’s family estate in Hampshire, is a perfect choice, and soon Frances, her beloved George, and other guests have gathered to enjoy the usual country pursuits–shooting, horse riding, and romantic interludes in secluded gardens.
But the bucolic setting harbors a menace, and it’s not simply the arrival of Frances’s socially ambitious mother. Above and below stairs, mysterious accidents befall guests and staff alike. Before long, Frances suspects these “accidents” are deliberate, and fears that the intended victim is Lily’s fiance, Leo. Frances’s mother is unimpressed by Lily’s groom-to-be and would much prefer that Lily find an aristocratic husband, just as Frances did. But now that Frances has found happiness with George–a man who loves her for much more than her dowry–she heartily approves of Lily’s choice. If she can just keep the couple safe from villains and meddling mamas.
As Frances and George search for the culprit among the assembled family, friends, and servants, more victims fall prey to the mayhem. Mishaps become full-blooded murder, and it seems that no one is safe. And unless Frances can quickly flush out the culprit, the peal of wedding bells may give way to another funeral toll. . . .
Countess of Harleigh, Frances Win, is eager to see her sister married so she can focus on her own plans to marry George Hazelton. To avoid scandal, the wedding of Lily and Leo must happen in the country, but as soon as they arrive accident after accident occurs. Coincidence, Frances thinks not!
It was delightful to return to the fun of Frances and George. They are both eager to plan their own wedding, though Frances still has some reservations because of her disastrous first marriage. ALl they need is time to talk things over, but they keep getting interrupted. Accidents begin as soon as they step off the train and luggage nearly falls on Leo and George and escalate from there. Frances’ suspicions are raised, but George is less eager to think there is danger.
The plot moves at a good pace. It was enjoyable to see characters we have met and be introduced to new ones. While the mystery was a bit predictable, it was enjoyable nonetheless. (Maybe I’ve just read too many mystery novels at this point?)
For readers looking for a light historical mystery with humor sprinkled in, I would recommend this. I received a free ARC from NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.
