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The Crown Jewels Regency Mysteries #1
The Missing Diamond
In Regency London's glittering ballrooms, a well-made match can mean the difference between power and ruin.
London, 1813: With his reputation and inheritance on the line, Lord Percy is determined to win the heart of the coveted diamond of the season. When that beautiful woman vanishes, his failure seems all but certain.
Unless, that is, he can find her.
Lady Grace is devastated when her best friend disappears. Society may be willing to believe the worst, but Grace knows her friend would never run off without leaving her a clue.
Someone kidnapped her - but who?
With the clock ticking, Lord Percy and Lady Grace find their best hope lies in working together. But strong wills, brash decisions, and pesky sparks aren't the only things standing in their way.
Can they trust each other in a society where people will do anything to rise to the top?
Find out in The Missing Diamond.
London, 1813: With his reputation and inheritance on the line, Lord Percy is determined to win the heart of the coveted diamond of the season. When that beautiful woman vanishes, his failure seems all but certain.
Unless, that is, he can find her.
Lady Grace is devastated when her best friend disappears. Society may be willing to believe the worst, but Grace knows her friend would never run off without leaving her a clue.
Someone kidnapped her - but who?
With the clock ticking, Lord Percy and Lady Grace find their best hope lies in working together. But strong wills, brash decisions, and pesky sparks aren't the only things standing in their way.
Can they trust each other in a society where people will do anything to rise to the top?
Find out in The Missing Diamond.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2024
705 people are currently reading
2472 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Morrison
74 books231 followersLynn Morrison lives in Oxford, England along with her husband, two daughters and two cats. Originally from the US, she has also lived in Italy, France and the Netherlands. It’s no surprise then that she loves to travel, with a never-ending wishlist of destinations to visit. She is as passionate about reading as she is writing, and can almost always be found with a book in hand. You can find out more about her on her website LynnMorrisonWriter.com.
You can chat with her directly in her Facebook group - Lynn Morrison’s Not a Book Club - where she talks about books, life and anything else that crosses her mind.
You can chat with her directly in her Facebook group - Lynn Morrison’s Not a Book Club - where she talks about books, life and anything else that crosses her mind.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
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April 27, 2024As soon as I heard a new season of Bridgerton is coming out this summer, I knew it was time for me to try my hand at writing a regency mystery. I absolutely love the regency period, short as it was, and had no trouble coming up with the start of an idea. I roped my longtime friend and developmental editor Anne into cowriting this series with me. I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed writing it together.
December 21, 2024
Disappointing. I don’t mind if the mystery plot in my romance novels is a bit basic but it turns out the mystery is supposed to be the star of the show here. The romance is the slow burn kind that is going to develop over a few (yet unpublished when I was reading this one) books.
It’s such an obvious rip-off the Bridgerton, with its Diamond of the season and a meddling queen.
I don’t have high expectations of Kindle Unlimited regency romance novels, but at the very minimum I’d like to have a proper happy ending and not whatever that was. I thought I was watching a movie, but it turned out it was a just a pilot episode of a TV show (that probably isn’t going to get picked up anyway).
It’s such an obvious rip-off the Bridgerton, with its Diamond of the season and a meddling queen.
I don’t have high expectations of Kindle Unlimited regency romance novels, but at the very minimum I’d like to have a proper happy ending and not whatever that was. I thought I was watching a movie, but it turned out it was a just a pilot episode of a TV show (that probably isn’t going to get picked up anyway).
May 8, 2024
We're in the middle of the Regency period in England. Early on we're introduced to Roland, Lord Percy, who has returned from military service after becoming the heir to his grandfather the Duke of Northumberland, and to debutantes and best friends Lady Grace Tilbury and Lady Charity Cresswell who are being received by Queen Charlotte at the beginning of the London season.
Queen Charlotte chooses Charity as her favorite, the "diamond of the first water." Roland, pressured by his grandfather to marry and produce an heir, makes a bet at White's that he can marry the "diamond" by the end of the season.
Then Charity disappears, her father seeks help from Queen Charlotte, and she calls in Roland and Grace and orders them to work together secretly to find Charity before she is ruined.
Along the way we are introduced to supporting characters, including non-typical servants and street urchin siblings, who will likely figure in the promised sequel.
First in a new series and time period by author Lynn Morrison and her editor and new collaborator Anne Radcliffe. Well written, enjoyable, keeps the reader guessing, although somewhat improbable in places. My thanks to the authors, publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance review copy.
Queen Charlotte chooses Charity as her favorite, the "diamond of the first water." Roland, pressured by his grandfather to marry and produce an heir, makes a bet at White's that he can marry the "diamond" by the end of the season.
Then Charity disappears, her father seeks help from Queen Charlotte, and she calls in Roland and Grace and orders them to work together secretly to find Charity before she is ruined.
Along the way we are introduced to supporting characters, including non-typical servants and street urchin siblings, who will likely figure in the promised sequel.
First in a new series and time period by author Lynn Morrison and her editor and new collaborator Anne Radcliffe. Well written, enjoyable, keeps the reader guessing, although somewhat improbable in places. My thanks to the authors, publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance review copy.
May 31, 2024
I have a secret. Sometimes... I read something that's not urban fantasy. It's rare, but it happens. And on my off-genre read... I've found a true gem to share with you all. 😍
I'm hip deep in Bridgerton (season 1, so no spoilers please!) and I was in the mood for a regency mystery. And boy, did I find one!
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑫𝒊𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒅 was exactly the book I didn't know I needed. The writing is sublime, the mystery is clever and the romance is swoonworthy. Mark my words, this is going to be a huge hit!
If you love Bridgerton and historical mysteries, then grab your copy! It is even in Kindle Unlimited!
I'm hip deep in Bridgerton (season 1, so no spoilers please!) and I was in the mood for a regency mystery. And boy, did I find one!
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑫𝒊𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒅 was exactly the book I didn't know I needed. The writing is sublime, the mystery is clever and the romance is swoonworthy. Mark my words, this is going to be a huge hit!
If you love Bridgerton and historical mysteries, then grab your copy! It is even in Kindle Unlimited!
February 9, 2025
If you love Bridgerton, especially the Queen Charlotte character of Bridgerton, this might be for you.
Grace’s best friend, Charity, is named “The Diamond” of the season by the Queen and has many suitors. When Charity disappears from a ball, the Queen charges Grace and one of Charity’s suitors, Lord Percy, with finding her.
Grace and Percy have a few moments, but the Queen wants him and Charity together. There’s no resolution on that front after Charity is found. You must read on to see what happens next.
This is the alternate regency England of Bridgerton, so you must embrace that setting.
Grace’s best friend, Charity, is named “The Diamond” of the season by the Queen and has many suitors. When Charity disappears from a ball, the Queen charges Grace and one of Charity’s suitors, Lord Percy, with finding her.
Grace and Percy have a few moments, but the Queen wants him and Charity together. There’s no resolution on that front after Charity is found. You must read on to see what happens next.
This is the alternate regency England of Bridgerton, so you must embrace that setting.
June 21, 2024
OK, we all know what we are going to get when we read read romance novels. No matter what happens, the lady and love interest end up together. This entire novel we see Grace and Roland working together to save lady charity from kidnappers. They have burgeoning feelings for each other, and yet at the end, they do not end up together. The possibility is still there I think? It's not really clear at the end if Roland is marrying charity in church or not however, it's entirely and wholly unsatisfying to have such an intelligent lady and decent love interest not wind up together. What the heck?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
3 stars
Cute
Cute
May 29, 2024
If, like me you have a weakness for period fiction à la Georgette Heyer and mysteries, this book is sheer delight. Lynn Morrison and Ann Ratcliffe have recreated the Regency era for the modern reader without losing themselves in the details. The Missing Diamond is a gem!
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April 28, 2024As an editor, my favourite work is helping authors invent fictional people that are relatable and have dimension. Well, this was my chance to do my favourite thing. I've worked with Lynn on the bones of her mysteries for years, and she's been after me to work on writing my own for the entire pandemic. So I didn't fight her too hard when she told me we were writing a regency story and I had better watch Bridgerton!
September 30, 2024
This was a two star read by the ABSOLUTE skin of its teeth. The characters were trite, boring and tropey beyond belief. The mystery wasn't mysterious and the plot stretched believability well beyond where it should. I'm thankful this was a series from Kindle Unlimited as I will not be returning to it.
June 30, 2024
I received a copy from Marketing Chair Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Roland Percy’s father dies in a drunken accident, he’s forced to leave the military and return home. Under his grandfather’s threats, he must marry and produce an heir as soon as possible. Roland is set on courting the diamond of the season, Charity Cresswell, but things go awry when she goes missing. Everyone thinks she’s run away to elope with a secret lover, but Grace Tilbury knows her best friend must have been abducted. Now it’s up to Grace and Roland to find Charity before her virtue is destroyed in the eyes of society. As Grace and Roland grow closer, their romantic candle has been lit, leaving a whole new set of problems on their hands.
When I saw this book, I knew I had to read it. A regency era romance turned cozy mystery? Sign me up! If you’re looking for a book that’s heavy in the romance department, this may not be the book for you because it’s a very slow burn. However, it really works for the story. I think that when the romance gets kicked into full gear in book two, all the work put into the romance’s beginning is going to pay off in a huge way. What a scandal that will be, though! Phew. I’m already ready for book two.
That said, this was a super fun read. I really enjoyed all of the characters. Even the evil characters were interesting and well-written! We are introduced to many characters, but it’s done slowly and never feels overwhelming. One of the things I really like is that no matter how briefly we see a character, they are really well planned out and it feels almost like we’re meeting and talking to them ourselves. It was also fun to see Roland learn that not only are women just as capable as men, but also see how much society holds women back as he gets to know Grace.
The mystery itself was fun to follow. Who abducted Charity, or did she really sneak away with a secret lover to elope? We see all the angles and see a lot of fun interactions as Grace and Roland investigate things. There are Bridgerton vibes mainly because Queen Charlotte gets involved thanks to Charity being her carefully selected diamond of the season, which does add to the story. I did figure out who did what because it made the most sense given the circumstances, but it was still really fun to see how it played out.
All in all, this was such a great read. My only real issue with the story is how it ends. It was so abrupt that I actually thought the advanced copy I received had accidentally cut off the ending! I actually said, that’s it?! It does leave off on a small cliffhanger of sorts, so I’m sitting on the edge of my seat while waiting for the next installment. It’ll be interesting to see how the next book plays out and what mystery will be thrown into the mix since this is listed as a regency mystery series. I just hope that the ending of the next book will be less abrupt.
When Roland Percy’s father dies in a drunken accident, he’s forced to leave the military and return home. Under his grandfather’s threats, he must marry and produce an heir as soon as possible. Roland is set on courting the diamond of the season, Charity Cresswell, but things go awry when she goes missing. Everyone thinks she’s run away to elope with a secret lover, but Grace Tilbury knows her best friend must have been abducted. Now it’s up to Grace and Roland to find Charity before her virtue is destroyed in the eyes of society. As Grace and Roland grow closer, their romantic candle has been lit, leaving a whole new set of problems on their hands.
When I saw this book, I knew I had to read it. A regency era romance turned cozy mystery? Sign me up! If you’re looking for a book that’s heavy in the romance department, this may not be the book for you because it’s a very slow burn. However, it really works for the story. I think that when the romance gets kicked into full gear in book two, all the work put into the romance’s beginning is going to pay off in a huge way. What a scandal that will be, though! Phew. I’m already ready for book two.
That said, this was a super fun read. I really enjoyed all of the characters. Even the evil characters were interesting and well-written! We are introduced to many characters, but it’s done slowly and never feels overwhelming. One of the things I really like is that no matter how briefly we see a character, they are really well planned out and it feels almost like we’re meeting and talking to them ourselves. It was also fun to see Roland learn that not only are women just as capable as men, but also see how much society holds women back as he gets to know Grace.
The mystery itself was fun to follow. Who abducted Charity, or did she really sneak away with a secret lover to elope? We see all the angles and see a lot of fun interactions as Grace and Roland investigate things. There are Bridgerton vibes mainly because Queen Charlotte gets involved thanks to Charity being her carefully selected diamond of the season, which does add to the story. I did figure out who did what because it made the most sense given the circumstances, but it was still really fun to see how it played out.
All in all, this was such a great read. My only real issue with the story is how it ends. It was so abrupt that I actually thought the advanced copy I received had accidentally cut off the ending! I actually said, that’s it?! It does leave off on a small cliffhanger of sorts, so I’m sitting on the edge of my seat while waiting for the next installment. It’ll be interesting to see how the next book plays out and what mystery will be thrown into the mix since this is listed as a regency mystery series. I just hope that the ending of the next book will be less abrupt.
May 22, 2024
The Missing Diamond,
by Lynn Morrison & Anne Radcliffe
Book 1, The Crown Jewels Regency Mysteries
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Fake courtships, a mysterious abduction to solve under sworn secrecy for fear of a reputation’s total ruin and an unlikely pair of amateur sleuths joining forces all marry together a captivating regency-era novel.
I was swept up immediately, twirling upon the dance floors of regency London’s high society ballrooms and tonish withdrawing parlours, held firm in a thrilling chokehold from start to completion. Intent on finding the missing Lady Charity Cresswell - the Season’s declared Diamond beyond compare - to prevent her scandalous ruination, FMC Lady Grace and Lord Percy, the missing Charity’s suitor, are sent to investigate by none other than Queen Charlotte herself.
Although there are elements of romance in this book, it’s most definitely not a fluffy flowery read. Jam-packed with intrigue and an unrequited yearning betwixt the MCs, there’s more focus on loyalty and the importance of fulfilling one’s societal obligations versus love. Powerfully built characters with engaging rapport and a rag-tag collection of supporting cast kept me invested and swiping those pages. With a “who done it” and why conundrum the suspense was strong in this beauty! I was left guessing until the very end.
I await with bated breath, the second instalment from A Crown Jewels Regency Mystery series; The Ruby Dagger, released this June.
✨Pre-order✨
The Missing Diamond ahead of the May 30th release:
https://mybook.to/MissingDiamond
Available for purchase on Kindle and Audible, Free on KU.
Many thanks to authors Lynn Morrison & Anne Radcliffe, Marketing Chair Press and NetGalley for the complimentary ARC.
My review is given freely and without incentive.
by Lynn Morrison & Anne Radcliffe
Book 1, The Crown Jewels Regency Mysteries
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Fake courtships, a mysterious abduction to solve under sworn secrecy for fear of a reputation’s total ruin and an unlikely pair of amateur sleuths joining forces all marry together a captivating regency-era novel.
I was swept up immediately, twirling upon the dance floors of regency London’s high society ballrooms and tonish withdrawing parlours, held firm in a thrilling chokehold from start to completion. Intent on finding the missing Lady Charity Cresswell - the Season’s declared Diamond beyond compare - to prevent her scandalous ruination, FMC Lady Grace and Lord Percy, the missing Charity’s suitor, are sent to investigate by none other than Queen Charlotte herself.
Although there are elements of romance in this book, it’s most definitely not a fluffy flowery read. Jam-packed with intrigue and an unrequited yearning betwixt the MCs, there’s more focus on loyalty and the importance of fulfilling one’s societal obligations versus love. Powerfully built characters with engaging rapport and a rag-tag collection of supporting cast kept me invested and swiping those pages. With a “who done it” and why conundrum the suspense was strong in this beauty! I was left guessing until the very end.
I await with bated breath, the second instalment from A Crown Jewels Regency Mystery series; The Ruby Dagger, released this June.
✨Pre-order✨
The Missing Diamond ahead of the May 30th release:
https://mybook.to/MissingDiamond
Available for purchase on Kindle and Audible, Free on KU.
Many thanks to authors Lynn Morrison & Anne Radcliffe, Marketing Chair Press and NetGalley for the complimentary ARC.
My review is given freely and without incentive.
October 21, 2024
3.5–a promising start. Some weird logical leaps in plotting. I would have liked a bit more chemistry with our leads but I think it will come in time. The queen seemed to be more of a player than I expect in novels set in the time period. I haven’t decided yet if it is working. Going to stick with the series.
June 5, 2024
In Regency London's glittering ballrooms, a well-made match can mean the difference between power and ruin. When Lord Percy’s pursuit of the season's most beautiful debutante is jeopardized by the lady’s mysterious disappearance, he must join forces with Lady Grace, who is equally determined to find her missing friend. As they navigate society's intrigues and face strong wills and brash decisions, they must decide if they can trust each other to uncover the truth and save their reputations.
I am always excited when a new Regency mystery appears. However, this one didn’t feel as though it was actually set in the Regency period. It felt like a glamorized version of the Regency. At the end, there are historical notes where the authors say they feigned ignorance about how a waltz was really performed, but movie and tv shows do the same thing so they’re in “good company”. This really rubbed me the wrong way.
The premise itself had potential, but I didn’t feel like anyone treated Charity’s disappearance with any kind of seriousness. As far as the romance, I was not rooting for Grace and Lord Percy to get together.
Overall, this was just not the book for me and I doubt I’ll continue the series. I would recommend it to readers who are not looking for historical accuracy in their Regency mysteries.
I received an advance copy via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.
I am always excited when a new Regency mystery appears. However, this one didn’t feel as though it was actually set in the Regency period. It felt like a glamorized version of the Regency. At the end, there are historical notes where the authors say they feigned ignorance about how a waltz was really performed, but movie and tv shows do the same thing so they’re in “good company”. This really rubbed me the wrong way.
The premise itself had potential, but I didn’t feel like anyone treated Charity’s disappearance with any kind of seriousness. As far as the romance, I was not rooting for Grace and Lord Percy to get together.
Overall, this was just not the book for me and I doubt I’ll continue the series. I would recommend it to readers who are not looking for historical accuracy in their Regency mysteries.
I received an advance copy via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 4, 2024
I was looking forward to this one as it's my favourite trope mystery and romance combined. However it just didn't live up to my expectations. The idea was fine and it was well written but it just didn't quite work. The mystery was a bit lame and the romance never felt like it really happened. It also ended abruptly in what might be called a bit of a cliff hanger. I realise that things will progress more as the series develops but it still didn't work quite as well as others have and the Queen Charlotte business wasn't historically accurate for 1813 which put me off a bit. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily..
May 16, 2024
I’m a great fan of Ms Morrison’s prior series, the Dora and Rex 1920’s Mysteries - check it out if you’ve not read any of those books! - so I was interested to read more about Grace, who was mentioned briefly in the latest Dora adventure, The Cold Cryptic Case. I was tentatively expecting this book to be similar to Dora and Rex’s books and it kind of is, but also kind of isn’t 😆
Well, it didn’t take me long to get caught up in the intrigue of the missing diamond and invested in Grace and Lord Percy’s characters! This series is written in the regency period, roughly 100 years prior to Dora and Rex’s stories, where women have even less freedom or choice than in Dora’s time. Great writing by the authors depicted this and (most of) the men’s attitude towards women in this period. Despite the restrictions, Grace manages to walk the line between what’s expected of her and what she wants/needs to do to find her missing friend. I love the friendship Grace and Charity have and Grace’s loyalty and dedication to her friend - but at the same time I’d love to see Grace be able to further a relationship with Roland (Lord Percy)! As things are left at the end of this book, it’s not looking likely, but we shall see how everything pans out in future books in this series! Very much looking forward to finding out 😁 I also love that both Grace and Roland have strong, more friendship than mistress/master relationships with their respective servants, Elsie and Thorne. This says a lot for their depth of character and endeared me even more to them both.
So, to the plot! Queen Charlotte tasks Roland and Grace with finding her diamond of the season, the missing Charity, before all of their reputations are tarnished, in differing ways. Neither Grace nor Roland are particularly happy to have to work together towards this end, especially with the caveat of what the queen has decreed will happen if they don’t find her diamond, but as their investigation progresses they both learn a little more about each other and become aware that they need each other in order to succeed. The intrigue is well written and builds up, along with the mystery and tension as the story progresses. I had no clue who was behind it all for most of the story and only cottoned on when Grace did! A really entertaining read, which has set up the background and scene for future books in this series. This particular plot line is wrapped up nicely at the end, but with other threads left hanging as to how things will progress regarding Grace, Roland and Charity. I’m intrigued to read more 😁
Well, it didn’t take me long to get caught up in the intrigue of the missing diamond and invested in Grace and Lord Percy’s characters! This series is written in the regency period, roughly 100 years prior to Dora and Rex’s stories, where women have even less freedom or choice than in Dora’s time. Great writing by the authors depicted this and (most of) the men’s attitude towards women in this period. Despite the restrictions, Grace manages to walk the line between what’s expected of her and what she wants/needs to do to find her missing friend. I love the friendship Grace and Charity have and Grace’s loyalty and dedication to her friend - but at the same time I’d love to see Grace be able to further a relationship with Roland (Lord Percy)! As things are left at the end of this book, it’s not looking likely, but we shall see how everything pans out in future books in this series! Very much looking forward to finding out 😁 I also love that both Grace and Roland have strong, more friendship than mistress/master relationships with their respective servants, Elsie and Thorne. This says a lot for their depth of character and endeared me even more to them both.
So, to the plot! Queen Charlotte tasks Roland and Grace with finding her diamond of the season, the missing Charity, before all of their reputations are tarnished, in differing ways. Neither Grace nor Roland are particularly happy to have to work together towards this end, especially with the caveat of what the queen has decreed will happen if they don’t find her diamond, but as their investigation progresses they both learn a little more about each other and become aware that they need each other in order to succeed. The intrigue is well written and builds up, along with the mystery and tension as the story progresses. I had no clue who was behind it all for most of the story and only cottoned on when Grace did! A really entertaining read, which has set up the background and scene for future books in this series. This particular plot line is wrapped up nicely at the end, but with other threads left hanging as to how things will progress regarding Grace, Roland and Charity. I’m intrigued to read more 😁
December 19, 2024
Worth the time
Character development was nicely established, though I do believe the plot line could’ve been tighter. I thought the authors presented a good mystery, well researched: the title is reflection of their research. The characters are believable to a point, though Roland seems gentler than one would expect a member of the aristocracy to be. The presence of the “Sprouts“ seems to be misplaced for most of the story, however, the end indicates that their role will be more central to the story as time goes on. I appreciated that there was not too much description… I would rather be swept away by the story than bogged down with extensive details about architecture andball gowns. I thought the story might’ve benefited with more possible suspects to add to the suspense. At a decisive point in the story it is obvious who has committed the crime. However, it is the ability to look forward to the second book in the series that intrigues the reader, beckoning us to stay on board for the next book to discover out how Grace will adjust and find the personal freedom that she is searching for, and witness promised punishment/justice as Queen Charlotte suggests.
This is a relatively quick read. The pace keeps the plot moving forward at a generally brisk pace. I did not feel the need to skim. I did not feel that the authors included any filler, but instead got right to the point… And the explanations provided by secondary characters offered new insights into the challenges facing Grace and Roland.
If I were able, I would give this 3.5 stars. The novel is not one of great depth, but it is entertaining. There is no questionable language,gore, or sexual content… Which I greatly appreciate. I enjoyed the story enough that I will start the second one right away. As the first book in the series, I felt the authors made a good showing, and would recommend this story.
Character development was nicely established, though I do believe the plot line could’ve been tighter. I thought the authors presented a good mystery, well researched: the title is reflection of their research. The characters are believable to a point, though Roland seems gentler than one would expect a member of the aristocracy to be. The presence of the “Sprouts“ seems to be misplaced for most of the story, however, the end indicates that their role will be more central to the story as time goes on. I appreciated that there was not too much description… I would rather be swept away by the story than bogged down with extensive details about architecture andball gowns. I thought the story might’ve benefited with more possible suspects to add to the suspense. At a decisive point in the story it is obvious who has committed the crime. However, it is the ability to look forward to the second book in the series that intrigues the reader, beckoning us to stay on board for the next book to discover out how Grace will adjust and find the personal freedom that she is searching for, and witness promised punishment/justice as Queen Charlotte suggests.
This is a relatively quick read. The pace keeps the plot moving forward at a generally brisk pace. I did not feel the need to skim. I did not feel that the authors included any filler, but instead got right to the point… And the explanations provided by secondary characters offered new insights into the challenges facing Grace and Roland.
If I were able, I would give this 3.5 stars. The novel is not one of great depth, but it is entertaining. There is no questionable language,gore, or sexual content… Which I greatly appreciate. I enjoyed the story enough that I will start the second one right away. As the first book in the series, I felt the authors made a good showing, and would recommend this story.
November 21, 2024
I loved this book. It is the perfect blend of regency' ball room and a cozy mystery.
What can be done when a crime is committed and the Ton has decided to look the other way? Because why save a debutante when the crime committed against her render her ruined in the eyes of society?
Charity was proclaimed the diamond of the season by Queen Charlotte. All the eligible batchelor are vying for her and in their rank is the heir of a Dukedom, earl Roland. Sadly, Charity thunder is short lived when she end up kidnaped in the middle of a ball.
Grace, Charity's best friend, is set to find out what happened to her friend. She has always lived in her friend's shadows and she was happy for it, being a bluestocking.
Earl Roland's father just past away and he became the heir to a dukedom. His grand-father called him back from the war and order him to find a wife to produce a heir to assure the survival of their family name. Roland isn't very please and decide to marry for duty and set his sight of the diamond of the season.
Queen Charlotte doesn't appreciate that someone has messed with her authority. Her dignity compel her to go to the bottom of this crime. She give lord Roland and Grace the mission to find her diamond of the first water or suffer the consequence.
It is the beginning of this story. The characters are presented and set into the story. We get glimpses of how the plot will develop in future installments. Even if it is juste the introduction of Grace, Roland and Charity's story, it is enjoyable and entertaining! It succeeded in setting the table and open my appetite for the rest of it!
What can be done when a crime is committed and the Ton has decided to look the other way? Because why save a debutante when the crime committed against her render her ruined in the eyes of society?
Charity was proclaimed the diamond of the season by Queen Charlotte. All the eligible batchelor are vying for her and in their rank is the heir of a Dukedom, earl Roland. Sadly, Charity thunder is short lived when she end up kidnaped in the middle of a ball.
Grace, Charity's best friend, is set to find out what happened to her friend. She has always lived in her friend's shadows and she was happy for it, being a bluestocking.
Earl Roland's father just past away and he became the heir to a dukedom. His grand-father called him back from the war and order him to find a wife to produce a heir to assure the survival of their family name. Roland isn't very please and decide to marry for duty and set his sight of the diamond of the season.
Queen Charlotte doesn't appreciate that someone has messed with her authority. Her dignity compel her to go to the bottom of this crime. She give lord Roland and Grace the mission to find her diamond of the first water or suffer the consequence.
It is the beginning of this story. The characters are presented and set into the story. We get glimpses of how the plot will develop in future installments. Even if it is juste the introduction of Grace, Roland and Charity's story, it is enjoyable and entertaining! It succeeded in setting the table and open my appetite for the rest of it!
May 11, 2024
The Regency period, where the ton are the elite and a highborn young woman’s reputation was everything, as debutantes set out to capture a husband, who could give their families status, rather than a love match, is the setting for this first book in a new series.
This is no light, frothy regency romance, but rather a book packed with strong characters (who you will want to learn more about) and plenty of intrigue. When Queen Charlotte’s “diamond” goes missing, most are happy to believe that she has eloped. However, Charity’s friend Grace is certain there is much more to her disappearance and is determined to discover what has happened to her.
Lord Percy, who had set his sights on marrying the “diamond” finds himself working with Grace to solve the mystery of how Charity could have vanished and to rescue her with her reputation intact.
Grace and Lord Percy are ably aided in their endeavours by her maid and his manservant. These characters are interesting in themselves and you feel you would like to know more about them and to set their roles developed, as the series continues.
Over the course of the book you gradually become aware of how Charity may have gone missing, but the reasons for this and the culprit, do not become clear until the end, keeping you guessing and invested.
I definitely recommend that you read the bonus scenes at the end of the book look forward to seeing how these feed into further books in the series.
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed this book, having been drawn into it quickly and very much look forward to the next.
This is no light, frothy regency romance, but rather a book packed with strong characters (who you will want to learn more about) and plenty of intrigue. When Queen Charlotte’s “diamond” goes missing, most are happy to believe that she has eloped. However, Charity’s friend Grace is certain there is much more to her disappearance and is determined to discover what has happened to her.
Lord Percy, who had set his sights on marrying the “diamond” finds himself working with Grace to solve the mystery of how Charity could have vanished and to rescue her with her reputation intact.
Grace and Lord Percy are ably aided in their endeavours by her maid and his manservant. These characters are interesting in themselves and you feel you would like to know more about them and to set their roles developed, as the series continues.
Over the course of the book you gradually become aware of how Charity may have gone missing, but the reasons for this and the culprit, do not become clear until the end, keeping you guessing and invested.
I definitely recommend that you read the bonus scenes at the end of the book look forward to seeing how these feed into further books in the series.
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed this book, having been drawn into it quickly and very much look forward to the next.
June 2, 2024
Wow, just wow!
I'm a mostly a sci-fi fantasy reader, but I truly love the Regency period and I'm a ginormous Jane Austen fan. I'm also a big fan of the Bridgerton series on Netflix (I haven't read them). So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it.
I could almost hear Lady Whistledown of Bridgerton fame reading this to me. It has all the fun aspects that series brings to a new season in the 'Ton. We have the reluctant Duke to be, handsome, debonair, ex-military Lord Roland Percy, and of course, the Queen's diamond of the season, the lovely Lady Charity Cressida, and more importantly our FMC, Lady Grace.
After a foolish drunken bet—after his grandfather, the Duke, has threatened him to marry this season or else—Roland says he'll marry the diamond by the end of May, not the end of the season, but early on! And the 'Ton is ablaze with bets and the tiniest hint of scandal.
Then a tragedy occurs at a ball, and in the confusion the diamond disappears! What to do? Well find her of course before she is ruined! This sets Roland and Lady Grace (Charity's best friend) on a mysterious ramble through the 'Ton together, which brings its own set of problems, and when the queen gets involved, the stakes are even higher!
Don't miss this delightful romp. It has all the social mores and idiosyncrasies of the rich and idle that Jane Austen made us love, and the fun and hi-jinx of Bridgerton—with a lot more historical accuracies then that series.
Trust me, you don't want to miss this! I know I want more Lord Percy and Lady Grace!
I'm a mostly a sci-fi fantasy reader, but I truly love the Regency period and I'm a ginormous Jane Austen fan. I'm also a big fan of the Bridgerton series on Netflix (I haven't read them). So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it.
I could almost hear Lady Whistledown of Bridgerton fame reading this to me. It has all the fun aspects that series brings to a new season in the 'Ton. We have the reluctant Duke to be, handsome, debonair, ex-military Lord Roland Percy, and of course, the Queen's diamond of the season, the lovely Lady Charity Cressida, and more importantly our FMC, Lady Grace.
After a foolish drunken bet—after his grandfather, the Duke, has threatened him to marry this season or else—Roland says he'll marry the diamond by the end of May, not the end of the season, but early on! And the 'Ton is ablaze with bets and the tiniest hint of scandal.
Then a tragedy occurs at a ball, and in the confusion the diamond disappears! What to do? Well find her of course before she is ruined! This sets Roland and Lady Grace (Charity's best friend) on a mysterious ramble through the 'Ton together, which brings its own set of problems, and when the queen gets involved, the stakes are even higher!
Don't miss this delightful romp. It has all the social mores and idiosyncrasies of the rich and idle that Jane Austen made us love, and the fun and hi-jinx of Bridgerton—with a lot more historical accuracies then that series.
Trust me, you don't want to miss this! I know I want more Lord Percy and Lady Grace!
May 31, 2024
In 1813 London, "The Season" has begun, and as is her habit, Queen Charlotte chooses her "Diamond of the first waters" from among the Season's debutantes. That accolade goes to Lady Charity. At the same time, Lord Percy, called from the battlefield after the death of his father, finds himself the heir apparent to his grandfather's title as the Duke of Northumberland, provided he satisfies his grandfather's demand that he marry "suitably" before the end of the Season, with promises of dire consequences if he fails to do so. The scene is now set for the Diamond and the future Duke until the young woman disappears and the ensuing search sends ripples through the Ton, and particularly the lives of Lord Percy, Lady Charity, and Charity's best friend, Lady Grace.
The Missing Diamond is a welcome addition to the cozy historical mystery genre as it captures Regency England in all of its grandeur, complexity, and hypocrisy. The characters are rich, and the story sufficiently complex to keep readers guessing. I read a lot of historical mysteries, but I was not familiar with the selection of the "Diamond" from among the debutantes and found this and other glimpses into Queen Charlotte both intriguing and unique. This book also has the added quality of intelligent and compelling characters on all levels of the societal spectrum from Royalty to Aristocracy to their various servants making for a more enjoyable read.
As often happens with a first in series, this book is heavier on the narrative than dialogue. I hope that the next book leans the other way with strong intelligent dialogue and a dose of witty banter.
That said, I have already pre-ordered the second book in this series and look forward to diving into it as soon as it releases. I highly recommend that you treat yourself to this well written and enjoyable read
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
The Missing Diamond is a welcome addition to the cozy historical mystery genre as it captures Regency England in all of its grandeur, complexity, and hypocrisy. The characters are rich, and the story sufficiently complex to keep readers guessing. I read a lot of historical mysteries, but I was not familiar with the selection of the "Diamond" from among the debutantes and found this and other glimpses into Queen Charlotte both intriguing and unique. This book also has the added quality of intelligent and compelling characters on all levels of the societal spectrum from Royalty to Aristocracy to their various servants making for a more enjoyable read.
As often happens with a first in series, this book is heavier on the narrative than dialogue. I hope that the next book leans the other way with strong intelligent dialogue and a dose of witty banter.
That said, I have already pre-ordered the second book in this series and look forward to diving into it as soon as it releases. I highly recommend that you treat yourself to this well written and enjoyable read
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
June 19, 2024
One of the nicest things about Goodreads giveaways is winning a book that might not be on your TBR list. I do read many mysteries and thrillers, but the Regency period has never been high on my list. However, The Missing Diamond was quite different from what I expected. Lady Grace is not your typical simpering debutante and while she must outwardly adapt to the restrictions society places upon women, she manages to participate fully in solving the mystery of her missing best friend. Lord Percy is far from the usual dandy, having spent time in the military, but he is being compelled by his grandfather to find a suitable wife in order to receive his inheritance. Both Grace and Percy have closely guarded friendships with their servants and they play prominent roles inn the story. The Queen’s top choice, the diamond, (Lady Charity) is first on Lord Percy’s list. When she goes missing, Queen Charlotte presents these two with an ultimatum. They must find Lady Charity or Lady Grace will take her place, a very unpleasant thought for Grace in multiple ways. Will Lady Charity be found, her reputation ruined and her family disgraced? Will Grace and Percy be able to solve the mystery? Fair warning, there is a cliffhanger, but since I had already decided to purchase the next two books, I was not disappointed.
May 31, 2024
I liked this story line; it had all the ingredients to keep me engaged. Lord Roland Percy, recently returned from the wars with his trusty sidekick, Thorne by his side. His grandfather, the duke, insists that Lord Percy meet and marry this season or else.
The Diamond of the season named is Lady Charity Cresswell who is sharing the season with her best friend, Lady Grace. During a ball, Charity disappears and a day or so later, a ransom note arrives revealing she has been kidnapped. Queen Charlotte tasks Lord Percy and Lady Grace to investigate the case and find her missing diamond or risk her selecting another debutante to hold this coveted title.
Lord Percy, being a former military man, is unsure Lady Grace will be able to assist in this assignment. However, Grace proves herself worthy for the task, noticing things that have slipped others' notice.
The final reveal was from an unexpected source that provided the missing information that helped in the rescue of Charity. All in a beautifully written, well thought out story line. I wait impatiently for book two to see how this story progresses! An enjoyable read.
I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley with thanks and am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
The Diamond of the season named is Lady Charity Cresswell who is sharing the season with her best friend, Lady Grace. During a ball, Charity disappears and a day or so later, a ransom note arrives revealing she has been kidnapped. Queen Charlotte tasks Lord Percy and Lady Grace to investigate the case and find her missing diamond or risk her selecting another debutante to hold this coveted title.
Lord Percy, being a former military man, is unsure Lady Grace will be able to assist in this assignment. However, Grace proves herself worthy for the task, noticing things that have slipped others' notice.
The final reveal was from an unexpected source that provided the missing information that helped in the rescue of Charity. All in a beautifully written, well thought out story line. I wait impatiently for book two to see how this story progresses! An enjoyable read.
I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley with thanks and am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
June 18, 2024
Enjoyable.
This book is not really "historical" on the same level as most of Georgette Heyer's historical romances, but it was fun. Grace is a feisty heroine and Roland is a very manly hero. They're forced to work together in order to find "the diamond", Grace's beautiful best friend after she seems to have been kidnapped. Grace is without the beauty of a diamond and she doesn't have the social graces necessary to be at ease at the parties and balls she has to attend. But she does have the brains to help Roland figure out what happened to her friend. Sadly, if they do succeed in finding her friend, chances are excellent that Grace will have to watch her best friend marry the man she herself has come to care about. I did enjoy the book. Not really historically accurate but that's okay. The characters were fun and well drawn. The mystery was a head scratcher, although I had a hint of an idea who the " bad guy" was. That didn't spoil the story for me. I did appreciate that the author didn't resort to smarmy dialogue and heaving bosoms to get the romance across to her readers. What I didn't especially care for was how the story concluded...it didn't. I'll have to read the next story to maybe find out an ending. I'll probably do that anyhow.
This book is not really "historical" on the same level as most of Georgette Heyer's historical romances, but it was fun. Grace is a feisty heroine and Roland is a very manly hero. They're forced to work together in order to find "the diamond", Grace's beautiful best friend after she seems to have been kidnapped. Grace is without the beauty of a diamond and she doesn't have the social graces necessary to be at ease at the parties and balls she has to attend. But she does have the brains to help Roland figure out what happened to her friend. Sadly, if they do succeed in finding her friend, chances are excellent that Grace will have to watch her best friend marry the man she herself has come to care about. I did enjoy the book. Not really historically accurate but that's okay. The characters were fun and well drawn. The mystery was a head scratcher, although I had a hint of an idea who the " bad guy" was. That didn't spoil the story for me. I did appreciate that the author didn't resort to smarmy dialogue and heaving bosoms to get the romance across to her readers. What I didn't especially care for was how the story concluded...it didn't. I'll have to read the next story to maybe find out an ending. I'll probably do that anyhow.
October 4, 2024
Mystery of the Diamond
Lord Percy was made to give up his commission and return home after the death of his father. His Grandfather the Duke wanted him to marry to continue the line. While in his cups at Whites he is goaded into making a stupid bet that he will marry the Diamond of the season.
The Queen names Lady Charity the Diamond and the dancing begins. Lady Grace is Charity’s best friend and she helps her make a list of eligible bachelors, Lord Percy is at the top.
During Lady Fitzroys ball, Grace is asked to dance with Lord Percy and Charity is Dancing with Lord Fitzroy. Grace notices Charity seems out of sorts and after the dance Grace says she’s going to get some fresh air while Grace goes to the retiring room. In the retiring room Grace notices a Fitzroy Maid is acting odd. She stumbles, crashes into a bust and then proceeds to crash through the upstairs banister to her death. Lord Percy is the first to get to her and notices Lady Graces looking down into Percy’s eyes.
When Grace get downstairs and finds her mother they then look for Charity but can’t find her anywhere.
With many speculating that she ran away to elope, Grace knows something is wrong. With the help of Lord Percy they will find the truth.
Lord Percy was made to give up his commission and return home after the death of his father. His Grandfather the Duke wanted him to marry to continue the line. While in his cups at Whites he is goaded into making a stupid bet that he will marry the Diamond of the season.
The Queen names Lady Charity the Diamond and the dancing begins. Lady Grace is Charity’s best friend and she helps her make a list of eligible bachelors, Lord Percy is at the top.
During Lady Fitzroys ball, Grace is asked to dance with Lord Percy and Charity is Dancing with Lord Fitzroy. Grace notices Charity seems out of sorts and after the dance Grace says she’s going to get some fresh air while Grace goes to the retiring room. In the retiring room Grace notices a Fitzroy Maid is acting odd. She stumbles, crashes into a bust and then proceeds to crash through the upstairs banister to her death. Lord Percy is the first to get to her and notices Lady Graces looking down into Percy’s eyes.
When Grace get downstairs and finds her mother they then look for Charity but can’t find her anywhere.
With many speculating that she ran away to elope, Grace knows something is wrong. With the help of Lord Percy they will find the truth.
April 29, 2024
London, 1813: The marriage season is in full swing. Debutantes have been presented at Court. The Queen has chosen this year's diamond of the first water. Lord Percy, newly back from the war and now first in line to inherit a dukedom, wagers his future on winning the hand of the Queen's favourite, Lady Charity. Until, that is, she disappears. Along with her best friend, Lady Grace, Lord Percy must do everything in his power to foil her abductors, before they are all brought to ruin.
Read if you enjoy...
Fake courtships
Amateur sleuths
A hint of scandal
This was a delightful Regency romp. It has exactly the right mix of intrigue and yearning and unwavering loyalty. Charity was a refreshingly pragmatic heroine. The mystery unfurled seamlessly between ballrooms and morning calls, and kept me guessing for quite a long time! I'm looking forward to the next books in this series as I'm eager to see where all these complicated relationships lead.
Perfect for fans of Bridgerton and Georgette Heyer.
Read if you enjoy...
Fake courtships
Amateur sleuths
A hint of scandal
This was a delightful Regency romp. It has exactly the right mix of intrigue and yearning and unwavering loyalty. Charity was a refreshingly pragmatic heroine. The mystery unfurled seamlessly between ballrooms and morning calls, and kept me guessing for quite a long time! I'm looking forward to the next books in this series as I'm eager to see where all these complicated relationships lead.
Perfect for fans of Bridgerton and Georgette Heyer.
May 30, 2024
The year is 1813, location London. The queen has a favourite , her ‘ diamond of the season’ Lady Charity Cresswell. Lord Percy is determined to covet and win her heart. Then when the lady vanishes … Lady Grace is determined to discover her friend’s whereabouts, she knows that her friend wouldn’t run away without leaving a clue to where she’s gone . Someone has kidnapped her but to what end?So without further ado Lord Percy and Lady Grace know what they must do. Work together to best find out what happened and find the Queen’s ‘ Diamond’ At the very anxious Queen’s behest. They’ll certainly try their best! The plot is hooking from the start , these authors have done an amazing job of capturing our imagination and running amok with it in perfectly timed scenes and characters that are so well written that we can’t wait to turn the page and engage in the story. Brilliant writing and storytelling sublime. I’m leaving my review voluntarily in my own words.
June 17, 2024
Written by cozy mystery author Lynn Morrison and her co-author Anne Radcliffe, The Missing Diamond is a new regency mystery billed as a cross between the TV show Bridgerton and an Agatha Christie novel.
When the 'diamond' of the season disappears, her best friend, Lady Grace Tilbury, and the man who had hoped to win her hand, Lord Roland Percy, are tasked by Queen Charlotte to find her before her absence ruins not only her own reputation but that of her family, her friends, and even the Queen herself.
Firstly, for you those of you who like clean mysteries don't be put off by the comparison to Bridgerton. This isn't steamy. It's more Pride and Prejudice. It's well-written and moves at a good pace. The era seems authentic and the main characters develop nicely as the book goes on. I would say it's as much a romance as a mystery. I really enjoyed it and have already pre-ordered the next one in the series, The Ruby Dagger, which comes out on 30th June.
When the 'diamond' of the season disappears, her best friend, Lady Grace Tilbury, and the man who had hoped to win her hand, Lord Roland Percy, are tasked by Queen Charlotte to find her before her absence ruins not only her own reputation but that of her family, her friends, and even the Queen herself.
Firstly, for you those of you who like clean mysteries don't be put off by the comparison to Bridgerton. This isn't steamy. It's more Pride and Prejudice. It's well-written and moves at a good pace. The era seems authentic and the main characters develop nicely as the book goes on. I would say it's as much a romance as a mystery. I really enjoyed it and have already pre-ordered the next one in the series, The Ruby Dagger, which comes out on 30th June.
January 9, 2025
We have Lord Roland Percy an ex military man rough around the edges and a man goaded into making a foolish wager!
When he wagers to wed the Diamond of the season he has set a chain of events into place that are unfathomable!
Lady Grace is best friends with Lady Charity who had been dubbed by Queen Charlotte as the Incomparable Diamond of the season!
When Lady Charity goes missing there are several suspects! A maid plunges to her death at the same time so the ball was rather chaotic!
When Grace and Roland are deputized to solve the mystery of Lady Charity disappearance a bond is firmed whether they like it or not!
When the clues lead to a 20 year old rivalry it seems fantastic and evil to attempt to destroy someone’s reputation for so flimsy a reason!
Can the Diamond be found? If so how will this affect Roland and Grace…. Read on
When he wagers to wed the Diamond of the season he has set a chain of events into place that are unfathomable!
Lady Grace is best friends with Lady Charity who had been dubbed by Queen Charlotte as the Incomparable Diamond of the season!
When Lady Charity goes missing there are several suspects! A maid plunges to her death at the same time so the ball was rather chaotic!
When Grace and Roland are deputized to solve the mystery of Lady Charity disappearance a bond is firmed whether they like it or not!
When the clues lead to a 20 year old rivalry it seems fantastic and evil to attempt to destroy someone’s reputation for so flimsy a reason!
Can the Diamond be found? If so how will this affect Roland and Grace…. Read on
April 28, 2024
"The missing Diamond" is the first book in the new regency mystery series "The crown jewels".
I found the characters well written and the story well thought out. Roland is back from war to face his duties as the heir to a Duke, whereas Grace is navigating her first season with the help of her friend Charity.
The servants Thorne and Elsie were a really nice addition to the plot and so were the sprouts, which will for sure bloom in future adventures.
The mystery was so well plotted I did not guess who the culprit was until the very end.
The ending left me curious to see what the future has store for the main characters and I cannot wait to read the next chapter!
Thanks to the author and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
I found the characters well written and the story well thought out. Roland is back from war to face his duties as the heir to a Duke, whereas Grace is navigating her first season with the help of her friend Charity.
The servants Thorne and Elsie were a really nice addition to the plot and so were the sprouts, which will for sure bloom in future adventures.
The mystery was so well plotted I did not guess who the culprit was until the very end.
The ending left me curious to see what the future has store for the main characters and I cannot wait to read the next chapter!
Thanks to the author and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
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