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The Simon Sampson Mysteries #3
A Death at His Majesty's
The stage is set for murder
It's the summer of 1929 and there's a serial killer on the streets of London.
Bodies of young women are dumped at the stage doors of London’s theatres.
Noël Coward's assistant Florence Miles, known to her close friends as Bill, is dragged into the investigation when the body of her former secret lover is found outside His Majesty’s Theatre.
Bill forms an unlikely alliance with the Chronicle newspaper’s senior crime reporter Simon Sampson. Together they discover that the killer has friends in high places…
This is the prequel to the LAMBDA finalist A Death in Berlin. It explores the secret world of the 1920s, a time when your sexuality could make you a lawbreaker. When gay men and women were constantly on their guard, careful about how they presented themselves in a hostile society.
A Death At His Majesty's is the first of a series that brings together Bill and Simon and follows them as they embark on a series of sleuthing adventures.
It's the summer of 1929 and there's a serial killer on the streets of London.
Bodies of young women are dumped at the stage doors of London’s theatres.
Noël Coward's assistant Florence Miles, known to her close friends as Bill, is dragged into the investigation when the body of her former secret lover is found outside His Majesty’s Theatre.
Bill forms an unlikely alliance with the Chronicle newspaper’s senior crime reporter Simon Sampson. Together they discover that the killer has friends in high places…
This is the prequel to the LAMBDA finalist A Death in Berlin. It explores the secret world of the 1920s, a time when your sexuality could make you a lawbreaker. When gay men and women were constantly on their guard, careful about how they presented themselves in a hostile society.
A Death At His Majesty's is the first of a series that brings together Bill and Simon and follows them as they embark on a series of sleuthing adventures.
- GenresMysteryHistorical
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2024
7 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
David C. Dawson
9 books71 followersMen in love, men in jeopardy.
David C. Dawson is an award-winning writer of page-turner thrillers with a gay theme and the occasional romance.
His latest novel A Death At His Majesty's was published inb April 2024. It's the third in the Simon Sampson Mysteries series. The second in the series, A Death in Berlin, was shortlisted for a Mystery and Thriller LAMMY.
His debut novel, The Necessary Deaths, won bronze for Best Mystery & Suspense in the FAPA chairman's award. It became the first in the Dominic Delingpole series. The other two books are The Deadly Lies and A Foreign Affair.
His first mystery romance For the Love of Luke was published in October 2018 followed by Heroes in Love.
David lives in London with his boyfriend and ageing motorbike.
You can read his blog here: http://bit.ly/DavidCDawsonblog
In his spare time, David tours Europe on his ageing Triumph motorbike and sings with the London Gay Men’s Chorus.
David C. Dawson is an award-winning writer of page-turner thrillers with a gay theme and the occasional romance.
His latest novel A Death At His Majesty's was published inb April 2024. It's the third in the Simon Sampson Mysteries series. The second in the series, A Death in Berlin, was shortlisted for a Mystery and Thriller LAMMY.
His debut novel, The Necessary Deaths, won bronze for Best Mystery & Suspense in the FAPA chairman's award. It became the first in the Dominic Delingpole series. The other two books are The Deadly Lies and A Foreign Affair.
His first mystery romance For the Love of Luke was published in October 2018 followed by Heroes in Love.
David lives in London with his boyfriend and ageing motorbike.
You can read his blog here: http://bit.ly/DavidCDawsonblog
In his spare time, David tours Europe on his ageing Triumph motorbike and sings with the London Gay Men’s Chorus.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 19, 2024
The first two book in the Simon Sampson Mysteries series are set in late 1932 and 1933 in London and Berlin, respectively, featuring political conspiracies and high intrigue. The main character, Simon Sampson works for BBC news and his close friend Bill (Florence Mills) manages the BBC library, although they are each equally comfortable in the arena of spies and espionage.
A Death at His Majesty's serves as a prequel to the series, set in 1929 London when Bill was Noel Coward's beleaguered assistant and Simon worked as a journalist for the Chronicle. They meet when the prop girl, Maureen Lyon, Bill's former lover, is founded murdered by the stage door of the Majesty, when Noel Coward's operetta Bitter Sweet is set to open. A second death leaves Bill and Simon searching for a common thread to the death and uncovering a killer that may have connections to those in powerful places.
As always, Dawson does an exception job of setting the scene with historic details about the era, and the gay men and women who lived in an other version of London. Ironically, "it's not even illegal in this country for women to be ... Sapphic ... as far as I know. The law's just obsessed with buggery, you know. Between chaps. The ladies are left alone." Yet this did not prevent women who frequented bars such as Paradise Regained, the Cherry Tree or the Honey Pot from pressure from the police.
We also get Bill's POV throughout the book and get more of a glimpse into her background, and her acerbic personality. But we also see all the societal pressures that Bill fought against; Simon's Aunt Cynny, who has an important job in the Home Office, serves as an example of the few women who managed to overcome these assumptions and pressures.
Personally, I didn't think the mystery and conclusion as gripping as the end of A Death in Berlin (but then, it is hard to top that ending!) and some characters like Darling were sort of shoe-horned in without a lot of depth, However, learning how Bill and Simon became friends and getting more pieces of the history of pre-WWII, I did like this installment in the series. I think the author has definitely found his niche, and as always, I'm looking forward to the next book! 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A Death at His Majesty's serves as a prequel to the series, set in 1929 London when Bill was Noel Coward's beleaguered assistant and Simon worked as a journalist for the Chronicle. They meet when the prop girl, Maureen Lyon, Bill's former lover, is founded murdered by the stage door of the Majesty, when Noel Coward's operetta Bitter Sweet is set to open. A second death leaves Bill and Simon searching for a common thread to the death and uncovering a killer that may have connections to those in powerful places.
As always, Dawson does an exception job of setting the scene with historic details about the era, and the gay men and women who lived in an other version of London. Ironically, "it's not even illegal in this country for women to be ... Sapphic ... as far as I know. The law's just obsessed with buggery, you know. Between chaps. The ladies are left alone." Yet this did not prevent women who frequented bars such as Paradise Regained, the Cherry Tree or the Honey Pot from pressure from the police.
We also get Bill's POV throughout the book and get more of a glimpse into her background, and her acerbic personality. But we also see all the societal pressures that Bill fought against; Simon's Aunt Cynny, who has an important job in the Home Office, serves as an example of the few women who managed to overcome these assumptions and pressures.
Personally, I didn't think the mystery and conclusion as gripping as the end of A Death in Berlin (but then, it is hard to top that ending!) and some characters like Darling were sort of shoe-horned in without a lot of depth, However, learning how Bill and Simon became friends and getting more pieces of the history of pre-WWII, I did like this installment in the series. I think the author has definitely found his niche, and as always, I'm looking forward to the next book! 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2024
This murder mystery takes place in London 1929 (the Roaring 20s) which is the same time period in which Agatha Christie began writing her first murder-mysteries. Although the writing is not the same, the atmosphere in this book reminded me of Agatha Christie's early novels.
There's a serial killer of young girls around London, whose bodies are left at theater doors, beginning with Maureen Lyons, who was left at the doors of "His Majesty's Theater", where a new operetta by Noel Coward was about to open. His assistant, Florence Miles (who goes by the nickname of "Bill") was drawn into the investigation because she and the murdered woman had been secret lovers. Enter Simon Sampson, an investigative crime reporter for "The Chronicle" and together, he and Bill work hard to figure out who killed those women. During this same era, a host of other things were occurring, such as improving women's status in society, since at that time, women's rights did not exist and they had only recently acquired the right to vote. It's a good reminder of how far we women have come but how long it's taken us to get here.
This is the third book written in this series ("The Simon Sampson Mysteries") but it is a prequel to books 1 and 2 so it should be read first. In the first two books, Bill and Simon are already very good friends, but in this book you learn how their friendship began.
I love murder mysteries, and I look forward to reading the other books of this series.
There's a serial killer of young girls around London, whose bodies are left at theater doors, beginning with Maureen Lyons, who was left at the doors of "His Majesty's Theater", where a new operetta by Noel Coward was about to open. His assistant, Florence Miles (who goes by the nickname of "Bill") was drawn into the investigation because she and the murdered woman had been secret lovers. Enter Simon Sampson, an investigative crime reporter for "The Chronicle" and together, he and Bill work hard to figure out who killed those women. During this same era, a host of other things were occurring, such as improving women's status in society, since at that time, women's rights did not exist and they had only recently acquired the right to vote. It's a good reminder of how far we women have come but how long it's taken us to get here.
This is the third book written in this series ("The Simon Sampson Mysteries") but it is a prequel to books 1 and 2 so it should be read first. In the first two books, Bill and Simon are already very good friends, but in this book you learn how their friendship began.
I love murder mysteries, and I look forward to reading the other books of this series.
August 8, 2024
If you have already read "A Death in Bloomsbury" and "A Death in Berlin" and wondered how Simon Sampson and Florence (a.k.a. Bill) Miles became friends, here is your answer. If you haven't read either of those books yet, feel free to start with this one. It is a prequel to the two previously published titles in the series. If you like a good mystery, I'm confident you'll want to read the other two books in the series when you finish this one.
It's tricky to go backwards in time to write a prequel. The author has to 'forget' the characters' established relationship and return to a time when they first meet, when the level of mutual trust evident later is not yet warranted. Dawson has managed to do that, showing how the friendship between the main characters develops and why Bill, who tends to be prickly around men, comes to trust that Simon is someone worth having in her life. Trust is especially important for them since they both have to keep their true natures hidden from society at large to avoid condemnation. At the same time, they each have that sixth sense that allows them to recognize someone else who identifies as 'other'.
The story opens in July 1929, in His Majesty's Theatre, London, with Bill working as personal assistant to Noel Coward during the tech rehearsal of his operetta "Bitter Sweet". She's contemplating murder, though only as a fantasy, since Noel can at times be an unreasonably demanding task master. Unfortunately, the murder theme becomes all too real by the second chapter. Simon is drawn to the story because of his job as senior crime reporter for The Chronicle newspaper. Bill has a more personal reason to want the killer behind bars.
As in the previous books in this series, Dawson provided sufficient descriptive detail to give me a feel for the historical settings and social attitudes of the period without overwhelming me with unnecessary trivia. The story drew me in quickly, leaving me wondering who the killer was, if/when he or she would strike again and whether the police would take seriously the threat against people who lived outside society's norms. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of trying to solve the mystery with the clues provided.
I received an advance copy of the book and read it eagerly. Dawson is a must-read author for me. My review is left voluntarily.
It's tricky to go backwards in time to write a prequel. The author has to 'forget' the characters' established relationship and return to a time when they first meet, when the level of mutual trust evident later is not yet warranted. Dawson has managed to do that, showing how the friendship between the main characters develops and why Bill, who tends to be prickly around men, comes to trust that Simon is someone worth having in her life. Trust is especially important for them since they both have to keep their true natures hidden from society at large to avoid condemnation. At the same time, they each have that sixth sense that allows them to recognize someone else who identifies as 'other'.
The story opens in July 1929, in His Majesty's Theatre, London, with Bill working as personal assistant to Noel Coward during the tech rehearsal of his operetta "Bitter Sweet". She's contemplating murder, though only as a fantasy, since Noel can at times be an unreasonably demanding task master. Unfortunately, the murder theme becomes all too real by the second chapter. Simon is drawn to the story because of his job as senior crime reporter for The Chronicle newspaper. Bill has a more personal reason to want the killer behind bars.
As in the previous books in this series, Dawson provided sufficient descriptive detail to give me a feel for the historical settings and social attitudes of the period without overwhelming me with unnecessary trivia. The story drew me in quickly, leaving me wondering who the killer was, if/when he or she would strike again and whether the police would take seriously the threat against people who lived outside society's norms. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of trying to solve the mystery with the clues provided.
I received an advance copy of the book and read it eagerly. Dawson is a must-read author for me. My review is left voluntarily.
April 18, 2024
Florence Miles aka Bill is out spoken and opinionated. She has no problem expressing to others exactly how she feels and thinks. She lives in London and at one time worked for the BBC. Bill is now personal assistant to her friend Noel Coward. He’s brought a new operetta to His Majesty’s Theatre, “Bitter Sweet”. Noel is quite arrogant and helpless at times and is driving Bill crazy. She’s about ready to just be done with him and find a new job. Maybe even go back to the BBC.
Trouble has come to Bill and the women of London with the murder of Maureen Lyons. Maureen and Bill had an affair at one time but they had broken apart. Maureen’s body was found outside His Majesty’s Theatre. With the commotion of the upcoming operetta and upsetting news Bill has gone upstairs to the Circle Bar. Reporter for The Chronicle, Simon Sampson has been waiting at the bar to try and meet Bill. At first, Bill is very cautious of Simon but he take her to the Salisbury. A place mainly occupied by the “other”. As she’d been here before, she was the only woman in the pub.
The more familiar Bill and Simon become, she’s a little irate when she finds out he’s a senior crime reported for “The Chronicle”. He want’s to find out more about the murder. As more women are in danger Bill takes Simon to “Paradise Regained” a women’s club owned by Sylvia. The club named for John Milton’s writings.
As Bill herself is attacked and there’s another murder, Simon and Bill will team up to discover there are those that believe they are above the law and women are an abomination.
David C. Dawson really did outstanding with bringing Florence “Bill” Miles stories to the page. “A Death at His Majesty’s” opens up to a world women had to fight to gain any type of freedom. I have to commend David C. Dawson as he takes a step into the sapphic world with this novel. Just to be clear it is not a sexually explicit story. He brings out the struggles of women in 1929 England. Women’s fight for equal rights. The Flapper Election as women under thirty had just been given the right to vote. Three years prior Parliament had given women the right to own and sell property. The Marriage Bar had prevented married women from working in Civil Service. There is a variety of history that’s very extensive throughout the novel.
I have to give credit to some of the most brave and interesting characters: Cynthia Buckingham aka Aunt Cynny; Sylvia, Grace Lucas, Maureen Lyons, and Jenny Casewell.
“The Simon Sampson Mysteries” have been mainly about Simon and Bill who always has a roll to play. This story will tell how Bill got the nickname of “old thing”. This time, it’s not all Simon’s story but we learn of his expertise as a reporter for The Chronicle. His hopes to be hired by the BBC. His expert investigative skills. His lover Calvin Schatz is always there to help Simon. Calvin has always encouraged Simon to move to Berlin where gay men have more freedom. The novel also reflects the homophobia not only against men but women too and how far and wide it spread through society and the world. How religious cults looked at women as wicked, sinners and an abomination. Also the issues and dangers against women. How even those of law enforcement reacted to women in a negative way because of their predilection.
The author never fails to bring historical facts and people to the fiction. Besides Noel Coward, John Sankey, the Lord Chancellor, Irving Berlin, Christina Rossetti’s poetry, John Robert Clynes, Home Secretary; and even Oscar Wilde get’s a mention.
“A Death in Bloomsbury” and “A Death in Berlin” are the first two books of the “Simon Sampson Mysteries”. They bring readers more about Simon Sampson and Bill during their friendship. I have never been disappointed in David C. Dawson’s novels. It’s amazing the extent of history he brings to his stories. I highly suggest “A Death at His Majesty’s”, the mystery is twisted, suspenseful, filled with surprises and heartbreaking. Another excellent novel from David C. Dawson.
Trouble has come to Bill and the women of London with the murder of Maureen Lyons. Maureen and Bill had an affair at one time but they had broken apart. Maureen’s body was found outside His Majesty’s Theatre. With the commotion of the upcoming operetta and upsetting news Bill has gone upstairs to the Circle Bar. Reporter for The Chronicle, Simon Sampson has been waiting at the bar to try and meet Bill. At first, Bill is very cautious of Simon but he take her to the Salisbury. A place mainly occupied by the “other”. As she’d been here before, she was the only woman in the pub.
The more familiar Bill and Simon become, she’s a little irate when she finds out he’s a senior crime reported for “The Chronicle”. He want’s to find out more about the murder. As more women are in danger Bill takes Simon to “Paradise Regained” a women’s club owned by Sylvia. The club named for John Milton’s writings.
As Bill herself is attacked and there’s another murder, Simon and Bill will team up to discover there are those that believe they are above the law and women are an abomination.
David C. Dawson really did outstanding with bringing Florence “Bill” Miles stories to the page. “A Death at His Majesty’s” opens up to a world women had to fight to gain any type of freedom. I have to commend David C. Dawson as he takes a step into the sapphic world with this novel. Just to be clear it is not a sexually explicit story. He brings out the struggles of women in 1929 England. Women’s fight for equal rights. The Flapper Election as women under thirty had just been given the right to vote. Three years prior Parliament had given women the right to own and sell property. The Marriage Bar had prevented married women from working in Civil Service. There is a variety of history that’s very extensive throughout the novel.
I have to give credit to some of the most brave and interesting characters: Cynthia Buckingham aka Aunt Cynny; Sylvia, Grace Lucas, Maureen Lyons, and Jenny Casewell.
“The Simon Sampson Mysteries” have been mainly about Simon and Bill who always has a roll to play. This story will tell how Bill got the nickname of “old thing”. This time, it’s not all Simon’s story but we learn of his expertise as a reporter for The Chronicle. His hopes to be hired by the BBC. His expert investigative skills. His lover Calvin Schatz is always there to help Simon. Calvin has always encouraged Simon to move to Berlin where gay men have more freedom. The novel also reflects the homophobia not only against men but women too and how far and wide it spread through society and the world. How religious cults looked at women as wicked, sinners and an abomination. Also the issues and dangers against women. How even those of law enforcement reacted to women in a negative way because of their predilection.
The author never fails to bring historical facts and people to the fiction. Besides Noel Coward, John Sankey, the Lord Chancellor, Irving Berlin, Christina Rossetti’s poetry, John Robert Clynes, Home Secretary; and even Oscar Wilde get’s a mention.
“A Death in Bloomsbury” and “A Death in Berlin” are the first two books of the “Simon Sampson Mysteries”. They bring readers more about Simon Sampson and Bill during their friendship. I have never been disappointed in David C. Dawson’s novels. It’s amazing the extent of history he brings to his stories. I highly suggest “A Death at His Majesty’s”, the mystery is twisted, suspenseful, filled with surprises and heartbreaking. Another excellent novel from David C. Dawson.
April 19, 2024
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
A Death at His Majesty's, by David C. Dawson
A Simon Sampson Mystery, Book 3
★★★★★
280 Pages
3rd person, dual character POV
Themes: murder mystery, theatre, friendship, found family, religion
Genre: LGBT, Murder Mystery, Cosy Mystery, Historical
Triggers: mentions of 1920's homophobic laws and attitudes, murder, religious views
~
I've loved the Simon Sampson Mysteries, so far, so when I knew that there would be a prequel story – showing us how Bill and Simon came together – I couldn't have been more excited. Somehow, David C. Dawson manages to outdo himself with every book in this series. I remember being impressed when Book 2 was just as good, if not better, than Book 1. Well, he's done it again. This book could very well be the best in the series, yet. And I sincerely hope there's more to come. I could read about Bill and Simon's adventures forever. I hope they'll still be a crime-solving duo well into their nineties, because even then I'd still want to read about their escapades.
First off, I want to commend Dawson on making this an extremely female-centric novel. Not only do we get heavy amounts of Bill's POV, which was awesome, but the entire book is littered with timeline and well-written, well-researched honesty about the things women experience on a daily basis. These issues aren't just relevant to the historical timeline but also to modern women, because nothing has changed. I won't go on about all the scenes that made my heart race with anticipation or how I knew how Bill felt, whenever she thought there was danger, because that's something every woman knows. The thought process and reactions that Bill went through were phenomenally honest, heartbreaking, endearing and real.
Simon was adorable in this book. I loved the perfect meet-cute of how he first met Bill, then the little slivers of journalistic snark, how the shark inside came out when he realised he had a good source, but that he also knew how and when to draw the line between journalistic endeavour and friendship.
Bill was – as always – incredible. She's such a strong, feisty woman but it was lovely to see a softer side of her, in this book. To see her experiencing love, having a tender heart, and still ball-busting was so much fun.
While I can't say much about the plot itself, because anything I say would probably be a spoiler, I will mention that we get the unusual – but brilliantly executed – journal entries of the killer! This was so much fun, because there were tiny little snippets in those entries that gave us hints and clues towards the killer without ever pointing out just one person. So, we were able to follow the clues that Bill and Simon found, but add on the ones that only we knew about, to try to figure out who the killer was.
As always, the cast of secondary characters was full of life, colour and vibrancy. The story was immensely clever, well executed, and kept me guessing from the start. I was always on the edge of my seat, trying to work out who was liked to who and how. I adored Calvin and sincerely hope we get to see him again, and Aunt Cynny was wonderful! Bill's acerbic wit was like the cherry on top of a clever mystery and an adorable budding friendship.
All in all, a standing ovation for A Death at His Majesty's. It's been the highlight of my week, and I look forward to more from Bill and Simon.
~
Favourite Quote
“Noël insisted on bringing you in for this London run. God knows why. The only thing he knows about you is that you've been at the opera house. What did you do there? Make the tea?”
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
A Death at His Majesty's, by David C. Dawson
A Simon Sampson Mystery, Book 3
★★★★★
280 Pages
3rd person, dual character POV
Themes: murder mystery, theatre, friendship, found family, religion
Genre: LGBT, Murder Mystery, Cosy Mystery, Historical
Triggers: mentions of 1920's homophobic laws and attitudes, murder, religious views
~
I've loved the Simon Sampson Mysteries, so far, so when I knew that there would be a prequel story – showing us how Bill and Simon came together – I couldn't have been more excited. Somehow, David C. Dawson manages to outdo himself with every book in this series. I remember being impressed when Book 2 was just as good, if not better, than Book 1. Well, he's done it again. This book could very well be the best in the series, yet. And I sincerely hope there's more to come. I could read about Bill and Simon's adventures forever. I hope they'll still be a crime-solving duo well into their nineties, because even then I'd still want to read about their escapades.
First off, I want to commend Dawson on making this an extremely female-centric novel. Not only do we get heavy amounts of Bill's POV, which was awesome, but the entire book is littered with timeline and well-written, well-researched honesty about the things women experience on a daily basis. These issues aren't just relevant to the historical timeline but also to modern women, because nothing has changed. I won't go on about all the scenes that made my heart race with anticipation or how I knew how Bill felt, whenever she thought there was danger, because that's something every woman knows. The thought process and reactions that Bill went through were phenomenally honest, heartbreaking, endearing and real.
Simon was adorable in this book. I loved the perfect meet-cute of how he first met Bill, then the little slivers of journalistic snark, how the shark inside came out when he realised he had a good source, but that he also knew how and when to draw the line between journalistic endeavour and friendship.
Bill was – as always – incredible. She's such a strong, feisty woman but it was lovely to see a softer side of her, in this book. To see her experiencing love, having a tender heart, and still ball-busting was so much fun.
While I can't say much about the plot itself, because anything I say would probably be a spoiler, I will mention that we get the unusual – but brilliantly executed – journal entries of the killer! This was so much fun, because there were tiny little snippets in those entries that gave us hints and clues towards the killer without ever pointing out just one person. So, we were able to follow the clues that Bill and Simon found, but add on the ones that only we knew about, to try to figure out who the killer was.
As always, the cast of secondary characters was full of life, colour and vibrancy. The story was immensely clever, well executed, and kept me guessing from the start. I was always on the edge of my seat, trying to work out who was liked to who and how. I adored Calvin and sincerely hope we get to see him again, and Aunt Cynny was wonderful! Bill's acerbic wit was like the cherry on top of a clever mystery and an adorable budding friendship.
All in all, a standing ovation for A Death at His Majesty's. It's been the highlight of my week, and I look forward to more from Bill and Simon.
~
Favourite Quote
“Noël insisted on bringing you in for this London run. God knows why. The only thing he knows about you is that you've been at the opera house. What did you do there? Make the tea?”
April 1, 2024
Loose yourself in this unforgettable trip back in time...
Writing a review for David Dawson’s mysteries always make me want to grab a thesaurus because I can never think of enough superlatives to describe what I have just read. This book once again demonstrates the point. This fast-paced thriller set in 1929 is a prequel to the series that explores a mystery and the circumstances which brought Simon and Bill together. The characters I loved so much in the other two books get another layer of depth.
Bill and Simon investigate the untimely death of a young woman at the stage door of the theater staging a new Noel Coward production. Both Bill and Simon initially have their own reasons to pursue the investigation; Simon is a senior Crime Reporter for the Chronicle newspaper searching to make a difference, and Bill as Noel’s assistant and a secret lover of the young woman. With the police stifling any type of investigation, Bill and Simon embark upon their own sleuthing, uncovering a source which runs deep and leads to a cult like organization that definitely has friends in high places. As they continue to investigate Bill is branded as the “ring leader” of the depraved and the stakes are elevated and the plot thickens. During the course of their investigation Simon and Bill are helped along by a wonderful cast of unforgettable characters. (I especially liked Aunt Cynny and would love to see more of her!!)
The writing style presented in the series is extremely unique. Dawson paints a picture with his words that tingles the senses of the reader to make them feel as if they are present in the situation being described in the book… be it the smoke-filled room with no ventilation, a cockney accent that reverberates in your head, or simply the visual of cigarette ashes falling to the lapel and dropping to a pile on the floor. This style, joined with unmatched character development, an engaging plot, sprinkle in a compelling mystery and you a have another fast-paced thriller that will literally capture the reader and hold them hostage until the book is finished. The research completed to pull this book together is without compare. The descriptions truly capture the times and shines a light on those individuals described as “other” both male and female. This was very much a captivating and thought-provoking read. The author’s utilization of mystery and historical fiction was splendid, showcasing a clear understanding and attention to detail that went into the character development and into the narrative itself. (All of this and a winning story too!)
This is an engaging story that completely draws you in and immerses you in to 1929 London. I couldn't put it down! Very well done and a book I would highly recommend to anyone. Over and over!
Writing a review for David Dawson’s mysteries always make me want to grab a thesaurus because I can never think of enough superlatives to describe what I have just read. This book once again demonstrates the point. This fast-paced thriller set in 1929 is a prequel to the series that explores a mystery and the circumstances which brought Simon and Bill together. The characters I loved so much in the other two books get another layer of depth.
Bill and Simon investigate the untimely death of a young woman at the stage door of the theater staging a new Noel Coward production. Both Bill and Simon initially have their own reasons to pursue the investigation; Simon is a senior Crime Reporter for the Chronicle newspaper searching to make a difference, and Bill as Noel’s assistant and a secret lover of the young woman. With the police stifling any type of investigation, Bill and Simon embark upon their own sleuthing, uncovering a source which runs deep and leads to a cult like organization that definitely has friends in high places. As they continue to investigate Bill is branded as the “ring leader” of the depraved and the stakes are elevated and the plot thickens. During the course of their investigation Simon and Bill are helped along by a wonderful cast of unforgettable characters. (I especially liked Aunt Cynny and would love to see more of her!!)
The writing style presented in the series is extremely unique. Dawson paints a picture with his words that tingles the senses of the reader to make them feel as if they are present in the situation being described in the book… be it the smoke-filled room with no ventilation, a cockney accent that reverberates in your head, or simply the visual of cigarette ashes falling to the lapel and dropping to a pile on the floor. This style, joined with unmatched character development, an engaging plot, sprinkle in a compelling mystery and you a have another fast-paced thriller that will literally capture the reader and hold them hostage until the book is finished. The research completed to pull this book together is without compare. The descriptions truly capture the times and shines a light on those individuals described as “other” both male and female. This was very much a captivating and thought-provoking read. The author’s utilization of mystery and historical fiction was splendid, showcasing a clear understanding and attention to detail that went into the character development and into the narrative itself. (All of this and a winning story too!)
This is an engaging story that completely draws you in and immerses you in to 1929 London. I couldn't put it down! Very well done and a book I would highly recommend to anyone. Over and over!
April 14, 2024
Is this the best book yet in the Simon Sampson series from David C. Dawson? I certainly think so!
Death at his Majesty’s is the third Simon Sampson book, but is set before the other two and explores how Simon and Bill meet and become friends.
I’m a huge fan of all of David’s work, and feel very privileged to be given an ARC of this book and this is my honest (and spoiler free) review.
As with all of David’s books, the characters all feel very real and come to life off the page. The interactions between Bill and Noel really made me laugh. You really could picture the scenes and imagine Noel saying these things.
I loved seeing the friendship of Simon and Bill blossom. I’ve always enjoyed the witty, acerbic and sometimes sharp interactions between the two of them in all of these books, but in this book you really get to understand their relationship much more, and what makes them the people they are.
As always, as David does such an amazing job of creating real characters, you cannot help but feel drawn in and care about them.
It’s a fast paced, gripping, and at times, sad story. However, this is always balanced with the witty dialogue between the characters.
This book retains all of the trademark twists and turns that I’ve come to love and expect in David’s books and strikes a perfect balance of keeping true to the era and times, but also with a positive and hopeful outlook.
This series keeps on getting better and better, and in my opinion, I think this is the best yet in the Simon Sampson series. I really hope there will be a fourth instalment very soon.
This series is so different to a lot of books out there at the moment and I absolutely love it for that.
Thank you David for another brilliant read.
Highly recommended. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Death at his Majesty’s is the third Simon Sampson book, but is set before the other two and explores how Simon and Bill meet and become friends.
I’m a huge fan of all of David’s work, and feel very privileged to be given an ARC of this book and this is my honest (and spoiler free) review.
As with all of David’s books, the characters all feel very real and come to life off the page. The interactions between Bill and Noel really made me laugh. You really could picture the scenes and imagine Noel saying these things.
I loved seeing the friendship of Simon and Bill blossom. I’ve always enjoyed the witty, acerbic and sometimes sharp interactions between the two of them in all of these books, but in this book you really get to understand their relationship much more, and what makes them the people they are.
As always, as David does such an amazing job of creating real characters, you cannot help but feel drawn in and care about them.
It’s a fast paced, gripping, and at times, sad story. However, this is always balanced with the witty dialogue between the characters.
This book retains all of the trademark twists and turns that I’ve come to love and expect in David’s books and strikes a perfect balance of keeping true to the era and times, but also with a positive and hopeful outlook.
This series keeps on getting better and better, and in my opinion, I think this is the best yet in the Simon Sampson series. I really hope there will be a fourth instalment very soon.
This series is so different to a lot of books out there at the moment and I absolutely love it for that.
Thank you David for another brilliant read.
Highly recommended. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 15, 2024
A Death at His Majestys is a step back in time for ‘The Simon Sampson Mysteries’ series as it is set in 1929 and documents Simon and Bill’s first meeting and how the trust builds between them as they work on solving the worrying case of murdered young women. Bill is working as Noel Coward’s personal assistant and plotting his murder in her imagination when one of the theatre staff is found strangled and dumped at the stage door of His Majestys, the theatre where they are staging one of Coward’s productions. This is where Simon steps into the story as the crime reporter for the Chronicle newspaper.
The cigarette smoke filled atmosphere gives the reader a real feel for the times, the cigarette smoke courtesy of Bill. There is poverty to counterpoint the extravagance of the well to do as well as the ‘other’ side of society in terms of the gay men and women hiding in plain sight. Bill and Simon find they have to investigate the killings due to this atmosphere of fear and potential criminality. Added to this is the lack of interest the police are showing. What they discover is more worrying than either of them imagined.
With Bill and Noel Coward working and sparring together I was expecting an abundance of arch comments and witty repartee. I was well rewarded. Simon often finds himself a victim of Bill’s sharp tongue as she educates him about a woman’s lot in life and, let’s be honest, life in general.
There are great characters and an exciting storyline to follow. Lovely stuff.
The cigarette smoke filled atmosphere gives the reader a real feel for the times, the cigarette smoke courtesy of Bill. There is poverty to counterpoint the extravagance of the well to do as well as the ‘other’ side of society in terms of the gay men and women hiding in plain sight. Bill and Simon find they have to investigate the killings due to this atmosphere of fear and potential criminality. Added to this is the lack of interest the police are showing. What they discover is more worrying than either of them imagined.
With Bill and Noel Coward working and sparring together I was expecting an abundance of arch comments and witty repartee. I was well rewarded. Simon often finds himself a victim of Bill’s sharp tongue as she educates him about a woman’s lot in life and, let’s be honest, life in general.
There are great characters and an exciting storyline to follow. Lovely stuff.
April 11, 2024
I was captured, enraptured, and transported back in time reading David C. Dawson’s latest novel, A Death at His Majesty’s. In the fall of 2022, I discovered David’s storytelling. I became so enthralled with his writing talent that I read his entire catalog over a short period. I have waited too long to enjoy the world David creates.
A prequel to The Simon Sampson Mysteries (SSM), this latest installment entertained, informed, and cultivated an introspective analysis of my biases and perceptions of a strong man and a strong woman. That is a lot to accomplish for a well-paced, page-turner mystery. Passion, death, and secrets lie at the heart of this work.
In this latest adventure, the reader can learn more about Bill and Simon. Each character is given depth and nuisance that build the foundation underpinning for the other SSM. Mr. Dawson can pull the reader into the story. He creates each scene with such descriptive force. This force evokes the visual sensation and human emotions of being in the story. I know this is possible because he is a talented writer, but I suspect some kind of voodoo at work. As Cole Porter wrote in 1929, “.. that voodoo that [he] do so well.”
Should you read this novel?
Absolutely.
But I warn you, set aside time. for once you start this, reality falls away, and you are left with only the need to finish this adventure. I have but one other request. More, please.
Soon.
A prequel to The Simon Sampson Mysteries (SSM), this latest installment entertained, informed, and cultivated an introspective analysis of my biases and perceptions of a strong man and a strong woman. That is a lot to accomplish for a well-paced, page-turner mystery. Passion, death, and secrets lie at the heart of this work.
In this latest adventure, the reader can learn more about Bill and Simon. Each character is given depth and nuisance that build the foundation underpinning for the other SSM. Mr. Dawson can pull the reader into the story. He creates each scene with such descriptive force. This force evokes the visual sensation and human emotions of being in the story. I know this is possible because he is a talented writer, but I suspect some kind of voodoo at work. As Cole Porter wrote in 1929, “.. that voodoo that [he] do so well.”
Should you read this novel?
Absolutely.
But I warn you, set aside time. for once you start this, reality falls away, and you are left with only the need to finish this adventure. I have but one other request. More, please.
Soon.
October 7, 2024
David C. Dawson writes an intriguing cozy mystery with A Death at his Majesty's
In A Death at his Majesty's, the reader is brought to the prequel of A Death in Berlin, something I definitely now have to read. A Death at his Majesty's is part of the Simon Sampson Series, and this is volume three. I am a fan of David C. Dawson and want to read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. It's 1929 London, and what else is new, but there is a serial killer, and the bodies are dropping on the doorsteps of various Theaters. Florence "Bill" Miles gets thrusted into the mysterious killer's investigation, when a friend of hers is one of the victims. She teams up with Simon and hopes to find the killer before he or she strikes again. Somehow, they have to get into the mind of the killer and see what the victims may or may not have in common and catch the killer before someone else is killed. It's a cozy mystery at it's best, intrigue, killers, and the amateur sleuths are not amateur at all. This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. This book is both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. What a gripping and incredible storyline. A Death at his Majesty's is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
In A Death at his Majesty's, the reader is brought to the prequel of A Death in Berlin, something I definitely now have to read. A Death at his Majesty's is part of the Simon Sampson Series, and this is volume three. I am a fan of David C. Dawson and want to read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. It's 1929 London, and what else is new, but there is a serial killer, and the bodies are dropping on the doorsteps of various Theaters. Florence "Bill" Miles gets thrusted into the mysterious killer's investigation, when a friend of hers is one of the victims. She teams up with Simon and hopes to find the killer before he or she strikes again. Somehow, they have to get into the mind of the killer and see what the victims may or may not have in common and catch the killer before someone else is killed. It's a cozy mystery at it's best, intrigue, killers, and the amateur sleuths are not amateur at all. This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. This book is both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. What a gripping and incredible storyline. A Death at his Majesty's is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
April 16, 2024
This captivating prequel to the Simon Sampson Myseries series was brilliantly done! It is engaging and full of intrigue, mystery, murder, and more. A fast paced and truly thought provoking look into the struggles and secrecy of the LGBTQ+ community in London during 1929. Cleverly using journal entries as a way for readers to understand the depravity of the killer, yet not give away who they are.
There is a surprising twist or two to the storyline that I won't mention, simply because I don't want to give it away.
The journey Bill and Simon embark on to become friends amidst the fear of a killer, and their own personal, daily struggles is fascinating to follow. Bill is a strong, independant, in your face character, while Simon is more laid back and quietly determined. Both are intelligent, they are unique, engaging, and entertaining - just like this story. I liked following their progress as friends as well as working through the mystery of who the killer is - highly entertaining.
I am awed at the way David C. Dawson's writing captures your attention and keeps hold until the very end.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I would absolutely recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book, this is my honest opinion.
There is a surprising twist or two to the storyline that I won't mention, simply because I don't want to give it away.
The journey Bill and Simon embark on to become friends amidst the fear of a killer, and their own personal, daily struggles is fascinating to follow. Bill is a strong, independant, in your face character, while Simon is more laid back and quietly determined. Both are intelligent, they are unique, engaging, and entertaining - just like this story. I liked following their progress as friends as well as working through the mystery of who the killer is - highly entertaining.
I am awed at the way David C. Dawson's writing captures your attention and keeps hold until the very end.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I would absolutely recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book, this is my honest opinion.
April 23, 2024
This was an awesome book by David C Dawson. I had not heard of the author before but had the pleasure of reading this book. I was very glad I did so! I was engrossed with the story that I couldn’t stop turning the pages until I got to the end! It was well written and I loved the characters!!!! I absolutely think the story should be made into a movie!!! From what I understand there were 2 books prior to this which I plan to remedy soon! I’d definitely give this one more than 5 stars!!!
The story focuses on Florence Miles known as Billy who happens to be Noel Coward’s assistant as he’s directing a play at His Majesty’s theater in London in the 1920’s. There happened to be a murder by the theater and the victim was part of the crew. The victim was found strangled with a curtain cord.
Simon Sampson, one of the writer for the London newspaper innocuously was asking Billy questions when he was “outed” by his aunt. Think Carol Channing in the 1920’s attire being a “loud” person. However another murder occurred with the same motive. Not long after, Billy nearly became a victim.
I’ll just stop right there and have you pick up the book and read to find out what happened! A wonderful reading!
The story focuses on Florence Miles known as Billy who happens to be Noel Coward’s assistant as he’s directing a play at His Majesty’s theater in London in the 1920’s. There happened to be a murder by the theater and the victim was part of the crew. The victim was found strangled with a curtain cord.
Simon Sampson, one of the writer for the London newspaper innocuously was asking Billy questions when he was “outed” by his aunt. Think Carol Channing in the 1920’s attire being a “loud” person. However another murder occurred with the same motive. Not long after, Billy nearly became a victim.
I’ll just stop right there and have you pick up the book and read to find out what happened! A wonderful reading!
May 16, 2024
This is book 3 in the series, but in fact acts as the prequel, introducing the main two characters and shows how they first met and became friends.
The story is told by journalist Simon Sampson, and his female companion, Florence Miles, a.k.a. Bill, plus there are a few excerpts from the murderer's journal.
It is set in England in 1929 and the author portrays life in the twenties for people who were then classified as ‘other’. Together, they investigate the murder of two women who appear to have been targeted because of their ‘lifestyle’, and because the police don’t appear to be interested in finding the killer.
I enjoyed the banter between Simon and Bill and liked the author’s writing style. The mystery is clearly portrayed and moves at a swift pace without getting bogged down in too many confusing or unnecessary details.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I will definitely read the first two books now.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told by journalist Simon Sampson, and his female companion, Florence Miles, a.k.a. Bill, plus there are a few excerpts from the murderer's journal.
It is set in England in 1929 and the author portrays life in the twenties for people who were then classified as ‘other’. Together, they investigate the murder of two women who appear to have been targeted because of their ‘lifestyle’, and because the police don’t appear to be interested in finding the killer.
I enjoyed the banter between Simon and Bill and liked the author’s writing style. The mystery is clearly portrayed and moves at a swift pace without getting bogged down in too many confusing or unnecessary details.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I will definitely read the first two books now.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2024
A Death at His Majesty's - David C. Dawson
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. We learn much about Bill, her friends, lifestyle, chain-smoking habit and strength of character. The storyline moves at a very good pace and we get to meet others in Bills life, including Noel Coward. The descriptions of private members clubs brought back memories of visiting similar clubs many years ago, very authentic and true to life.
I found myself liking Simon very much, his discreet friendships and his determination to be a good reporter even if at a personal cost, qualities very evident in the previous book.
The combination of murders, relationships, legal observations, social expectations and behaviours produces a fascinating view of life and death in the late 1920's.
I enjoyed 'A Death in Berlin' and this novel even more, so I'll be looking out for new books by Mr Dawson whilst checking out his published works.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. We learn much about Bill, her friends, lifestyle, chain-smoking habit and strength of character. The storyline moves at a very good pace and we get to meet others in Bills life, including Noel Coward. The descriptions of private members clubs brought back memories of visiting similar clubs many years ago, very authentic and true to life.
I found myself liking Simon very much, his discreet friendships and his determination to be a good reporter even if at a personal cost, qualities very evident in the previous book.
The combination of murders, relationships, legal observations, social expectations and behaviours produces a fascinating view of life and death in the late 1920's.
I enjoyed 'A Death in Berlin' and this novel even more, so I'll be looking out for new books by Mr Dawson whilst checking out his published works.
July 10, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. I have not read the previous two entries in this series, but this is fine as this is a stand alone novel, but since I enjoyed it I will probably read the first two. The book has an interesting premise in that the protagonists are both "Others" in the parlance of the period, meaning LGBTQ today. Since this is a period piece the characters have to remain closeted to their general society. The novel provides insight into the problems (& joys) of their orientation. Anyway, this mystery is well written and while I usually can figure out "who done it" before the end of a book, this one had a twisty resolution. All in all a good read. (PS - I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader program, having said that, I will purchase the first two books in the series)
April 2, 2024
I've been waiting for this book for quite a while now, ever since I was enthralled by Dawson's A Death in Berlin.
It was worth the wait!
This is a really clever prequel to the Simon Sampson Mysteries. And intriguingly it's written from the point of view of Simon's female companion Bill. I learned an awful lot about the way women were pushed into the shadows in the early part of the 20th century in Britain.
The plot is twisted - as ever! - and there was one particular twist near the end that I really didn't see coming.
Dawson's characters are very subtly nuanced, entirely believable in their actions and reactions and they're never 2 dimensional.
Highly recommended.
It was worth the wait!
This is a really clever prequel to the Simon Sampson Mysteries. And intriguingly it's written from the point of view of Simon's female companion Bill. I learned an awful lot about the way women were pushed into the shadows in the early part of the 20th century in Britain.
The plot is twisted - as ever! - and there was one particular twist near the end that I really didn't see coming.
Dawson's characters are very subtly nuanced, entirely believable in their actions and reactions and they're never 2 dimensional.
Highly recommended.
July 20, 2024
I absolutely loved getting to know more about Simon and Bill in this prequel that explains the circumstances that brought them together. This is a very well written story that will draw you in, as you follow where the investigation is going. The plot is emotional, as you read, you are drawn to what the characters are feeling. As with the other books, it is very apparent the research that the author put into creating the plot. This is an interesting read you won’t want to put down. I highly recommend you read it. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2024
This book is a murder mystery with mm & ff relationships happening in the background.
With a murderer targeting females who are 'other' Simon is struggling to get the police to take his claim seriously. So as a reporter he writes a story that forces them to act. Unfortunately they do as little as possible. So Simon and his friend Bill decide they can do a better job.
This is a gripping story that has a few unexpected twists and I really enjoyed it.
With a murderer targeting females who are 'other' Simon is struggling to get the police to take his claim seriously. So as a reporter he writes a story that forces them to act. Unfortunately they do as little as possible. So Simon and his friend Bill decide they can do a better job.
This is a gripping story that has a few unexpected twists and I really enjoyed it.
May 29, 2024
3.5/5 stars. I enjoyed seeing how Bill and Simon met and am glad Bill is back to working with Simon rather than being a suspect, because their relationship is the most interesting part of this series. I wish they’d played off each other a little more in this book, though, because the thing I like best about their relationship is that they see things differently and aren’t afraid to argue with each other. The mystery was pretty predictable, but well-developed and entertaining.
April 18, 2024
Loved this book just as much as I did the first two in the series. Going back a few years, we finally find out how Bill and Simon met, became friends, and started solving mysteries together. Fantastic characters (even Noel Coward), great historical detail and nuance, and a great twist at the end. Fingers crossed there will be more of these two - they are fast becoming my favorite duo.
July 8, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I wasn't expecting it to end the way it did. I feel this book was well written.
August 21, 2024
A decent investigative procedural featuring non-police Bill and Simon duo (more of the former than the latter actually) with some great scenes from Simon's Aunt Cynny. I'm not sure if the author is going to give Bill some romantic interest in future volumes but I sure do hope love-interest Calvin gets to stick around for a while. I did manage to guess the identity of the killer a little past midway point of the read but that did not impact my reading enjoyment - 3.5 stars.
April 14, 2024
I knew I'd love this one because I've read the other 'Death in...' books from the series. David C. Dawson always manages to nail the settings and historical period details, and I felt fully immersed in the world. This time we are taken on a rip-roaring adventure with Bill, and I enjoyed every minute. The subtle hints to the queer issues of the day are, as always, artfully done - the criminalisation of homosexuality, the underground Sapphic clubs, and the tensions around gender roles in society. Everything I expected and more, and I'll be back for every new book from this author.
July 8, 2024
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader. I have not read the prior 2 books in this series but enjoyed this crime story. I would have liked more NOEL as that was the teaser that made me want to read this -- the inclusion of Noel Coward but he was really very ancillary to the story so I was left a bit disappointed. That being said this book was suspenseful and a bit fun to read considering the era it took place and the LGBTQ plot focus. I was quite surprised by the resolution of the crimes which is always fun for me. I now look forward to going back to read the prior to books in this series.
July 17, 2024
I love a good mystery, and this book has a great one! A body is found at the stage door where Noel Coward’s new play will open in a matter of days.
The victim? A wardrobe assistant who is “other” (aka lesbian) in a time where being “other” is still very much illegal. For this reason, the police doesn’t seem to make much of an effort to resolve the crime.
Journalist Simon enlists the help of Noel’s female assistant Bill to get to the bottom of it. When a second girl is murdered, they realise there may be more to it than they initially thought. But it isn’t till Bill herself narrowly escapes the killer, that they discover the real truth behind the murders. And it’s way darker and more twisted than they possibly could have imagined.
Even though I am generally not a fan of LGBTQ fiction, I liked this book as it’s a good mystery in itself and the characters are complex, interesting and well-written.
It also doesn’t give away the murderer too quickly (one of my pet peeves with crime is that halfway through a book I’ve usually guessed it, but that didn’t happen in this book).
Solid 4 out of 5
The victim? A wardrobe assistant who is “other” (aka lesbian) in a time where being “other” is still very much illegal. For this reason, the police doesn’t seem to make much of an effort to resolve the crime.
Journalist Simon enlists the help of Noel’s female assistant Bill to get to the bottom of it. When a second girl is murdered, they realise there may be more to it than they initially thought. But it isn’t till Bill herself narrowly escapes the killer, that they discover the real truth behind the murders. And it’s way darker and more twisted than they possibly could have imagined.
Even though I am generally not a fan of LGBTQ fiction, I liked this book as it’s a good mystery in itself and the characters are complex, interesting and well-written.
It also doesn’t give away the murderer too quickly (one of my pet peeves with crime is that halfway through a book I’ve usually guessed it, but that didn’t happen in this book).
Solid 4 out of 5
July 8, 2024
I found this to be an entertaining read. It is set in 1929 and the main characters are Simon Sampson, a crime reporter but with connections in high places and Florence Miles ( known as Bill ) who is P.A. to Noel Coward. There is a murder mystery to solve which had me guessing until the end. It also illustrates how people referred to as ‘other’ in the story ( but would now be classed as the LGBT+ community) were treated at this time. I was surprised to read that the law only applied to gay men. There are other factions involved and some glimpses of life in the theatre. I received a copy via Niche Reader and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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