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Abigail Dixon Mysteries #2
Death at Darrington Manor: An Abigail Dixon Mystery, Book 2
When intrepid reporter Abigail Dixon swaps Paris for an English manor to cover the wedding of the year, she expects afternoon tea on the lawn and cocktails in the drawing room, not a man lying dead in a stream and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon arrives in Somerset to report on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon’s son and an English aristocrat’s daughter. But when a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and the quaint village abuzz with gossip of a local woman discovered dead in London, Abigail quickly finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
As she investigates, Abigail unearths some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor and clues linking the two murders. From the lovelorn estate manager to a tight-lipped butler and local mechanic with an axe to grind, everyone is a possible suspect.
Determined to expose the culprit, and with danger lurking at every turn, can Abigail unveil the truth before the ‘wedding of the year’ becomes the obituary column?
Fans of Agatha Christie and Downton Abbey will devour this 1920s whodunit brimming with twists, red herrings, and charming period detail.
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon arrives in Somerset to report on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon’s son and an English aristocrat’s daughter. But when a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and the quaint village abuzz with gossip of a local woman discovered dead in London, Abigail quickly finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
As she investigates, Abigail unearths some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor and clues linking the two murders. From the lovelorn estate manager to a tight-lipped butler and local mechanic with an axe to grind, everyone is a possible suspect.
Determined to expose the culprit, and with danger lurking at every turn, can Abigail unveil the truth before the ‘wedding of the year’ becomes the obituary column?
Fans of Agatha Christie and Downton Abbey will devour this 1920s whodunit brimming with twists, red herrings, and charming period detail.
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Published June 27, 2024
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About the author
Nancy Warren
363 books1,893 followersNancy Warren is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 novels.
She’s known for writing funny, sexy and suspenseful tales. She’s an avid hiker, animal lover, wine drinker and chocolate fiend. Favorite moments in her career include being featured on the front page of the New York Times, being the answer to a crossword puzzle clue in Canada’s National Post newspaper and being a finalist three times in the Rita awards. She has won the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times magazine.
Get a free short story when you sign up for Nancy's newsletter at www.NancyWarrenAuthor.com or join Nancy in her private Facebook group to talk about books, knitting, pets & life.
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She’s known for writing funny, sexy and suspenseful tales. She’s an avid hiker, animal lover, wine drinker and chocolate fiend. Favorite moments in her career include being featured on the front page of the New York Times, being the answer to a crossword puzzle clue in Canada’s National Post newspaper and being a finalist three times in the Rita awards. She has won the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times magazine.
Get a free short story when you sign up for Nancy's newsletter at www.NancyWarrenAuthor.com or join Nancy in her private Facebook group to talk about books, knitting, pets & life.
www.facebook.com/groups/NancyWarrenKn...
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May 15, 2024
Death at Darrington Manor (Abigail Dixon, #2) by Nancy Warren
Synopsis /
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon arrives in Somerset to report on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon’s son and an English aristocrat’s daughter. But when a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and with the quaint village abuzz with gossip of a local woman discovered dead in London, Abigail quickly finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
As she investigates, Abigail unearths some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor and clues linking the two murders. From the lovelorn estate manager to a tight-lipped butler and local mechanic with an axe to grind, everyone is a possible suspect.
Determined to expose the culprit, and with danger lurking at every turn, can Abigail unveil the truth before the ‘wedding of the year’ becomes the obituary column?
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Nancy Warren, for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for June 27, 2024.
The fascination of shooting as a sport depends almost wholly on whether you are at the right or the wrong end of the gun.
— P.G. Wodehouse
In the first book, journalist, Miss Abigail Dixon was despatched to report on the latest in women's fashion from renown couturier, Monsieur Paul Joubert. In book #2, Death at Darrington Manor, Abigail's editor, Walter Strutt, has her travelling to Somerset to report on the high society wedding of the year, between The Honourable Cressida Wimborne, daughter of Viscount and Viscountess Wimborne, to American Industrialist Heir Reginald Mitchell Esquire, the son of an incredibly wealthy automobile manufacturer, Charles Mitchell.
To say that our Miss Dixon is less than happy about this latest assignment is an understatement. She tries to debate her reasoning with Walter Strutt - she more than managed to make headlines with her reporting of the murder at the fashion house; but as her editor points out - you were there when it happened, and the victim happened to be your stepmother. Strutt is old school, and his opinions are not about to be swayed by a woman. Women report on fashion and create stories for the society pages - who's attending which parties and what were they wearing - end of story. Abby, together with her roommate and best friend Vivian head off for Darrington Manor in Somerset for a week of festivities prior to the wedding.
After arriving, Abby soon realises that the Manor needs a serious injection of funds and thoughts begin to form whether this is a marriage of 'convenience', as from her observations the bride-to-be doesn't seem to share her beau's affections. Things then take a darker turn when the groom, in a car gifted by his father to his future in-laws, veers off the road and crashes into a tree. The groom, luckily, walks away with only minor injuries. The luxury car, however, was not so lucky. When the car is brought back to the Manor it becomes clear that this was no 'accident' - the cars brake lines had been cut. Was someone out to murder Reginald Mitchell? The was the first of many red herrings and I must admit to falling for all of them.
But it's not until, during a planned fishing activity for the wedding guests that death got real, and the best man, Oliver Platt is found face down floating in the river, dead. Fortunately for Abigail, Inspector Henri Deschamps (a close friend of the Viscount) was also attending the wedding festivities and stayed with the body while Abigail alerted the local constabulary. Was this intentional or an accident? It turns out that Oliver was wearing Reggie's coat, and at first glance, it looked as though it was Reggie that was face down in the water.
Warren has given us another well-written story, one with lots of family dramas and secrets. There's even an appearance by French fashion designer and businesswoman, Coco Chanel - ooh la la, fancy! I enjoyed the interactions between Miss Dixon and the Inspector in solving this mystery, and Vivian is just a ray of sunshine and brings joy and humour into the story.
I wonder if book #3 will have Miss Dixon finally getting her wish to cover a hard-hitting news story? Can't wait to find out!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Storm Publishing for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
#DeathatDarringtonManor #NetGalley
Synopsis /
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon arrives in Somerset to report on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon’s son and an English aristocrat’s daughter. But when a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and with the quaint village abuzz with gossip of a local woman discovered dead in London, Abigail quickly finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
As she investigates, Abigail unearths some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor and clues linking the two murders. From the lovelorn estate manager to a tight-lipped butler and local mechanic with an axe to grind, everyone is a possible suspect.
Determined to expose the culprit, and with danger lurking at every turn, can Abigail unveil the truth before the ‘wedding of the year’ becomes the obituary column?
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Nancy Warren, for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for June 27, 2024.
The fascination of shooting as a sport depends almost wholly on whether you are at the right or the wrong end of the gun.
— P.G. Wodehouse
In the first book, journalist, Miss Abigail Dixon was despatched to report on the latest in women's fashion from renown couturier, Monsieur Paul Joubert. In book #2, Death at Darrington Manor, Abigail's editor, Walter Strutt, has her travelling to Somerset to report on the high society wedding of the year, between The Honourable Cressida Wimborne, daughter of Viscount and Viscountess Wimborne, to American Industrialist Heir Reginald Mitchell Esquire, the son of an incredibly wealthy automobile manufacturer, Charles Mitchell.
To say that our Miss Dixon is less than happy about this latest assignment is an understatement. She tries to debate her reasoning with Walter Strutt - she more than managed to make headlines with her reporting of the murder at the fashion house; but as her editor points out - you were there when it happened, and the victim happened to be your stepmother. Strutt is old school, and his opinions are not about to be swayed by a woman. Women report on fashion and create stories for the society pages - who's attending which parties and what were they wearing - end of story. Abby, together with her roommate and best friend Vivian head off for Darrington Manor in Somerset for a week of festivities prior to the wedding.
After arriving, Abby soon realises that the Manor needs a serious injection of funds and thoughts begin to form whether this is a marriage of 'convenience', as from her observations the bride-to-be doesn't seem to share her beau's affections. Things then take a darker turn when the groom, in a car gifted by his father to his future in-laws, veers off the road and crashes into a tree. The groom, luckily, walks away with only minor injuries. The luxury car, however, was not so lucky. When the car is brought back to the Manor it becomes clear that this was no 'accident' - the cars brake lines had been cut. Was someone out to murder Reginald Mitchell? The was the first of many red herrings and I must admit to falling for all of them.
But it's not until, during a planned fishing activity for the wedding guests that death got real, and the best man, Oliver Platt is found face down floating in the river, dead. Fortunately for Abigail, Inspector Henri Deschamps (a close friend of the Viscount) was also attending the wedding festivities and stayed with the body while Abigail alerted the local constabulary. Was this intentional or an accident? It turns out that Oliver was wearing Reggie's coat, and at first glance, it looked as though it was Reggie that was face down in the water.
Warren has given us another well-written story, one with lots of family dramas and secrets. There's even an appearance by French fashion designer and businesswoman, Coco Chanel - ooh la la, fancy! I enjoyed the interactions between Miss Dixon and the Inspector in solving this mystery, and Vivian is just a ray of sunshine and brings joy and humour into the story.
I wonder if book #3 will have Miss Dixon finally getting her wish to cover a hard-hitting news story? Can't wait to find out!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Storm Publishing for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
#DeathatDarringtonManor #NetGalley
June 22, 2024
The second book in the Abigail Dixon series and it is every bit as good as the first.
Abigail is a news reporter working in Paris for an American paper. In this book she is sent to England to report on a society wedding which she does under sufferance because what she really wants is to report hard news. This does come to pass but not in the way she probably wished for it happen.
There are only two books so far in this series but I hope there will be more. In the meantime I see that Nancy Warren, although new to me, is an extremely prolific and popular author so I must see about reading some of her other work.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Abigail is a news reporter working in Paris for an American paper. In this book she is sent to England to report on a society wedding which she does under sufferance because what she really wants is to report hard news. This does come to pass but not in the way she probably wished for it happen.
There are only two books so far in this series but I hope there will be more. In the meantime I see that Nancy Warren, although new to me, is an extremely prolific and popular author so I must see about reading some of her other work.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 13, 2024
Paris 1925: Intrepid Reporter Abigail Dixon yearns to be reporting on major news items but seem to be forever relegated to the women's pages. When she is assigned to report on a society wedding in Somerset, England, Abigail sets out for a week of festivities prior to the wedding of a society debutant to an American millionaire at Darrington Manor. On her way to her assignment with her 'maid', best friend Viv, Abby learns of the death of a woman in London strangled by her own silk stockings. While in Somerset, a man is murdered on a trout=fishing expedition. The quaint village of Darrington is very quickly abuzz with gossip about the dead woman and Abby finds herself in the midst of murder and scandal. It also appears that Darrington Manor is not the place of peace and harmony as it seems.
There have been many stories written in the theme of this one and I found this story by Nancy Warren to be a most enjoyable read. Put together Paris and a society wedding in England in 1925 and one would not be surprised to discover the talent of the famous couturier Coco Chanel who designed the bride's dress. Together with French Detective Henri Deschamps, the American family, the estate manager and other interesting characters, Death at Darrington Manor is an interesting and fascinating read.
I loved this story and look forward to reading more of the series. And, I have discovered this is Book #2 in The Abigail Dixon mysteries so now I'm going back to Book #1 Murder at the Paris Fashion House! Thank you Nancy Warren for a delight read and thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy prior to publication.
There have been many stories written in the theme of this one and I found this story by Nancy Warren to be a most enjoyable read. Put together Paris and a society wedding in England in 1925 and one would not be surprised to discover the talent of the famous couturier Coco Chanel who designed the bride's dress. Together with French Detective Henri Deschamps, the American family, the estate manager and other interesting characters, Death at Darrington Manor is an interesting and fascinating read.
I loved this story and look forward to reading more of the series. And, I have discovered this is Book #2 in The Abigail Dixon mysteries so now I'm going back to Book #1 Murder at the Paris Fashion House! Thank you Nancy Warren for a delight read and thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy prior to publication.
June 11, 2024
Excellent cozy mystery perfect beach read or just one to pack for your weekend reading. The characters are all well described and introduced. I too had the feeling of being invited to the Darrington Manor for the week’s activities before the big wedding, of Viscount and Viscountess Wimborne’s daughter Cressida,to Reginald “Reggie” Mitchell son of the rich and famous American automobile maker, Charles A. Mitchell. This takes place in spring 1926. Charles A Mitchell “the Auto King” will spare no expense to see that this wedding is the wedding of the century., knowing the Wimbornes have fallen on hard times. He has employed Coco Chanel to make the brides gown, and wants only Abigail Dixon, the women’s style feature writer for the Chicago Post International, Paris office. Abby has begged her editor, Walter Strutt, for her to be a true journalist not just a women’s page. At any rate she is told to be at Darrington Manor to cover the wedding of the century and to send in glorious daily details. To fit in with the crowd she asks her best friend Vivian to come along as her lady’s maid. She has had a famous Cotour-designer design a weeks wardrobe including evening wear for every dinner meal. The designer comes thru and Viv has learned all the details of cleaning, pressing accessorizing, etc. Mr. Mitchell presents the Lord and Lady Wimborne for Reggie and Cressida’s wedding. One unfortunate event happens after another the final straw was the death of a guest at the manor. I was given an advance unedited e-copy to review and give my own opinions, which I have done and want to thank the following for allowing me to review this book early:
#NetGalley
#StormPublishingCo.
#NancyWarren
Publication Date: June 27, 2024
Pick one up to read this summer. You will love it.
#NetGalley
#StormPublishingCo.
#NancyWarren
Publication Date: June 27, 2024
Pick one up to read this summer. You will love it.
August 4, 2024
This is another enjoyable read in the newish Abigal Dixon historical mystery series. Abby is still working at an American newspaper in Paris and is still assigned to the women's desk. However, Abby quickly learns she's to head to England to cover a major society wedding, and pretty much all the action takes place at the estate.
A maid at the estate was murdered before Abby arrives, and while she hopes to cover it along with the wedding, her boss refuses. However, when one of the wedding party is murdered, and Abby is the only reporter inside the estate, she starts investigating. Oh, and did I mention that the handsome French police inspector from the first book is also there as a friend of the family?
I guessed pretty quickly who our villain was, but it didn't prevent my enjoyment of the book. I will definitely purchase the next in the series when it's published.
A maid at the estate was murdered before Abby arrives, and while she hopes to cover it along with the wedding, her boss refuses. However, when one of the wedding party is murdered, and Abby is the only reporter inside the estate, she starts investigating. Oh, and did I mention that the handsome French police inspector from the first book is also there as a friend of the family?
I guessed pretty quickly who our villain was, but it didn't prevent my enjoyment of the book. I will definitely purchase the next in the series when it's published.
June 25, 2024
This is the second in the Abigail Dixon Mystery series. It works as a standalone but there are a lot of recurring characters and themes, so would recommend reading book 1 before this.
Reporter Abigail is sent to Somerset from Paris to cover the society wedding if an English aristocrats daughter and an American tycoon's son. When a murder occurs on a fishing trip, Abigail is caught up in the mystery. Can she expose the culprit and persuade her editor that she has a story?
I loved revisiting Abigail and flatmate Vivian, and the longer appearance of Coco Chanel in this book was wonderful. This is shaping up into a great cosy mystery series, a new must read for me.
Reporter Abigail is sent to Somerset from Paris to cover the society wedding if an English aristocrats daughter and an American tycoon's son. When a murder occurs on a fishing trip, Abigail is caught up in the mystery. Can she expose the culprit and persuade her editor that she has a story?
I loved revisiting Abigail and flatmate Vivian, and the longer appearance of Coco Chanel in this book was wonderful. This is shaping up into a great cosy mystery series, a new must read for me.
June 24, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the publisher; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Death at Darrington Manor is the second title to feature Abby Dixon, an American reporter working in Paris during the 1920s. Despite breaking a big story several months prior when she found herself falsely accused of murdering her stepmother, Abby's boss insists that she work on women's interest pieces and society events. She is sent to England to cover the wedding of the Honorable Cressida Wimborne and Reginald Mitchell, the son of a wealthy American family that makes cars. Although Abby isn't thrilled at the assignment, she agrees to go and make the best of it hoping she can find a harder hitting story she could cover. A local girl was found strangled in London and the mystery catches Abby's attention so she decides to see if there is a story worth writing about it in addition to providing the wedding details that she knows readers will want to hear. Unfortunately, there is a murder of one of the guests and Abby finds herself in the middle of a big story while racing to discover who the killer is. I did find the mystery to be well done and engaging. I'm enjoying this new series and find Abby to be a fun character; I'm looking forward to seeing if something develops between her and French Inspector Deschamps.
June 8, 2024
It’s spring 1925 and when Abigail Dixon is sent to cover a society wedding between an English aristocrat's daughter and an American act tycoon's son for The Chicago Post she doesn’t expect to end up at the centre of a murder again. As she investigates she begins to discover there is more going on than it first seemed…
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
June 25, 2024
This second book in the Abigail Dixon series is set in an English manor, as Abigail Dixon is assigned to report on a society wedding in Somerset. It's one of those lavish week-long house parties that the English do so well, and it is filled with a murder, a bombastic American car manufacturer, an enormous royal blue car, an appearance by Coco Chanel and loads of suspects. Abigail despairs of ever being assigned to something other than the women's pages of the Chicago International News, but once again finds herself in the midst of an intriguing cozy murder mystery.
There's a large cast of characters here and the author does a good job of fleshing them out and giving us tantalizing details and red herrings along the way to the resolution. We get another appearance by the fascinating Inspector Henri Deschamps and a few more steps into what could become a romantic relationship? I felt the book dragged a bit in the middle as Abigail hashed and rehashed the situation, but the ending brought about a satisfying conclusion and I look forward to the next book in the series. 4 stars.
I received an ARC from Storm Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
There's a large cast of characters here and the author does a good job of fleshing them out and giving us tantalizing details and red herrings along the way to the resolution. We get another appearance by the fascinating Inspector Henri Deschamps and a few more steps into what could become a romantic relationship? I felt the book dragged a bit in the middle as Abigail hashed and rehashed the situation, but the ending brought about a satisfying conclusion and I look forward to the next book in the series. 4 stars.
I received an ARC from Storm Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2024
American Abigail Dixon is a girl reporter who has been starting her career in Paris but finding that all her editor will let her do in the 1920s is "puff pieces" and "society stuff". Her roommate Vivian talks Abby into letting her go along with her to an English country house (as her personal maid) where Abby is supposed to cover a society wedding and nothing else (thank you very much). There's lots of family drama, attempted murder, and then a full murder which they sleuth with both British and French detectives but STILL CAN'T WRITE ABOUT! Very enjoyable addition to this new series.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Storm Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Storm Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
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August 26, 2024Wonderfully evocative of English aristocracy in the 1920's and an unexpected twist in the resolution of the murder mystery. A nice read.
June 20, 2024
This is my first experience with Nancy Warren’s books and now that I have entered Abigail Dixon’s world, I am dying to visit it again! In fact, I want to head back into this reporter’s past to book one and see how it all started. Even though it would have been a bonus to have read the first one of the series, the author gives us plenty of background info to get us up to speed. There are a number of snapshot references of the main character’s past experiences and of persons with whom she interacted. I warmed very quickly to reporter Abby and delighted in this cosy mystery that drew me in quickly and held me firm to the last page. There were lots of great puzzles to solve that kept me interested and mentally active.
In Death at Darrington Manor, Abby is a compelling protagonist determined to solve more than one crime that may or may not have been connected. There are lots of clues, red-herrings, and an intriguing cast of characters that kept me engaged from start to finish! Guessing the killer was not easy so Ms Warren has delivered well and provided lots of maze pathways, some which lead to dead ends while others unveil valuable information that help solve the crime(s).
Abby, who lives in Paris, is a reporter for a Chicago newspaper. Much to her annoyance she is called to cover a high society wedding at Darrington Manor in England. She is frustrated at being assigned articles for women’s pages when she is chomping at the bit to do more. And although she tries to make the best of her situation, and longs to cast her net farther, her dream to cover hard news stories seems to remain dampened by her boss who won’t give her the opportunities. She knows she is more than capable in accomplishing such a task but this the 1920’s when men were given those challenging assignments. Will fate intervene and deal her a main player’s hand in crime reporting? It seems so, because once she gets to the Manor and meets some fascinating characters, a murder occurs and she is in the thick of it with the advantage of first-hand accounts.
There are some famous persons like Coco Chanel present at the Manor so fashion is part of this story’s fabric—especially for the wedding. Vivien, Abby’s best friend is a great side-kick and comes as her maid in charge of her Cotour-designed clothes (we are provided information of her past connection to a designer from the first book of the series). French Det Henri Deschamps, her past arch-rival, from the previous novel is there to support the bride’s father—an old war comrade. Abby tip toes around him for a while until they put their heads together to analyse the crimes. Potential bride and groom Reggie (son of American car design-producer) and Cressida (daughter of high society parents) are an interesting pair. Money and society come together to offer each other support but do they mix well or are they more like water and oil?
It was a pleasure to watch Abby move through the mine fields, investigate and report. She is someone you’d love to meet and listen to while she questions the suspects. The full cast played their parts well, including Lord and Lady Wimborne, their family, staff and acquaintances. It has a satisfying ending with lots of surprises. Fans of Agatha Christie and Downton Abbey will truly enjoy this cosy mystery that is fun, smoothly written and deliciously rich in its approach. Ms Warren’s books are now on my list as must reads—with instalment two of this series shining as a worthy winner! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Death at Darrington Manor, Abby is a compelling protagonist determined to solve more than one crime that may or may not have been connected. There are lots of clues, red-herrings, and an intriguing cast of characters that kept me engaged from start to finish! Guessing the killer was not easy so Ms Warren has delivered well and provided lots of maze pathways, some which lead to dead ends while others unveil valuable information that help solve the crime(s).
Abby, who lives in Paris, is a reporter for a Chicago newspaper. Much to her annoyance she is called to cover a high society wedding at Darrington Manor in England. She is frustrated at being assigned articles for women’s pages when she is chomping at the bit to do more. And although she tries to make the best of her situation, and longs to cast her net farther, her dream to cover hard news stories seems to remain dampened by her boss who won’t give her the opportunities. She knows she is more than capable in accomplishing such a task but this the 1920’s when men were given those challenging assignments. Will fate intervene and deal her a main player’s hand in crime reporting? It seems so, because once she gets to the Manor and meets some fascinating characters, a murder occurs and she is in the thick of it with the advantage of first-hand accounts.
There are some famous persons like Coco Chanel present at the Manor so fashion is part of this story’s fabric—especially for the wedding. Vivien, Abby’s best friend is a great side-kick and comes as her maid in charge of her Cotour-designed clothes (we are provided information of her past connection to a designer from the first book of the series). French Det Henri Deschamps, her past arch-rival, from the previous novel is there to support the bride’s father—an old war comrade. Abby tip toes around him for a while until they put their heads together to analyse the crimes. Potential bride and groom Reggie (son of American car design-producer) and Cressida (daughter of high society parents) are an interesting pair. Money and society come together to offer each other support but do they mix well or are they more like water and oil?
It was a pleasure to watch Abby move through the mine fields, investigate and report. She is someone you’d love to meet and listen to while she questions the suspects. The full cast played their parts well, including Lord and Lady Wimborne, their family, staff and acquaintances. It has a satisfying ending with lots of surprises. Fans of Agatha Christie and Downton Abbey will truly enjoy this cosy mystery that is fun, smoothly written and deliciously rich in its approach. Ms Warren’s books are now on my list as must reads—with instalment two of this series shining as a worthy winner! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 29, 2024
Nancy Warren’s Death at Darrington Manor, the second book in the Abigail Dixon Mystery series, is a delightful blend of cozy mystery and historical intrigue that promises to captivate readers from the first page. Set against the elegant backdrop of a 1925 English manor, this novel masterfully combines high society drama with the sharp investigative skills of its intrepid heroine.
The story follows Abigail Dixon, a reporter who trades the bustling streets of Paris for the picturesque, yet secretive, Darrington Manor in Somerset. Abigail’s assignment to cover the high-society wedding of an American tycoon’s son to an English aristocrat’s daughter takes an unexpected turn when a man is found murdered during a trout-fishing expedition. The situation becomes even more complex with the discovery of a local woman strangled in London, creating a web of intrigue that Abigail is determined to unravel.
Warren excels in crafting a plot that is both engaging and meticulously paced. The narrative is rich with twists and turns as Abigail delves into the secrets of Darrington Manor, uncovering connections between the two murders. The suspense builds steadily, keeping readers guessing and thoroughly entertained. The author’s attention to historical detail vividly brings the era to life, from the social customs of the time to the atmospheric setting of the manor and its surroundings.
Character development is a standout feature of Death at Darrington Manor. Abigail Dixon is a formidable protagonist, characterized by her keen intellect, journalistic tenacity, and independent spirit. Her interactions with the manor’s eclectic inhabitants, from the lovelorn estate manager to the tight-lipped butler and the local mechanic with a grudge, are skillfully depicted, adding depth and complexity to the story. Each character is well-drawn, with their own secrets and motives, enhancing the mystery and adding layers to the investigation.
Fans of cozy mysteries will find much to love in this novel. Warren’s writing is charming and accessible, capturing the essence of the genre with its blend of light-hearted moments and darker undertones. The historical setting adds a unique flavor, transporting readers to a time of elegance and societal expectations while weaving in the thrill of a whodunit. The interplay between Abigail’s modern sensibilities and the traditional backdrop of Darrington Manor creates a dynamic and engaging narrative.
Moreover, Death at Darrington Manor explores themes of class, ambition, and the hidden lives behind society’s polished façade. Abigail’s role as an outsider allows her to navigate these themes with a critical eye, uncovering the discrepancies between appearance and reality. Her determination to seek justice and uncover the truth, despite the dangers, adds a compelling layer to her character and the story.
Death at Darrington Manor is a captivating addition to the Abigail Dixon Mystery series. Nancy Warren has crafted a cozy historical mystery that is both intellectually stimulating and thoroughly entertaining. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and evocative setting, this novel is sure to delight fans of the genre and leave them eagerly awaiting Abigail Dixon’s next adventure. Warren’s ability to blend historical detail with a gripping mystery makes this book a standout read, perfect for those who enjoy a good puzzle set against a charmingly old-fashioned backdrop.
The story follows Abigail Dixon, a reporter who trades the bustling streets of Paris for the picturesque, yet secretive, Darrington Manor in Somerset. Abigail’s assignment to cover the high-society wedding of an American tycoon’s son to an English aristocrat’s daughter takes an unexpected turn when a man is found murdered during a trout-fishing expedition. The situation becomes even more complex with the discovery of a local woman strangled in London, creating a web of intrigue that Abigail is determined to unravel.
Warren excels in crafting a plot that is both engaging and meticulously paced. The narrative is rich with twists and turns as Abigail delves into the secrets of Darrington Manor, uncovering connections between the two murders. The suspense builds steadily, keeping readers guessing and thoroughly entertained. The author’s attention to historical detail vividly brings the era to life, from the social customs of the time to the atmospheric setting of the manor and its surroundings.
Character development is a standout feature of Death at Darrington Manor. Abigail Dixon is a formidable protagonist, characterized by her keen intellect, journalistic tenacity, and independent spirit. Her interactions with the manor’s eclectic inhabitants, from the lovelorn estate manager to the tight-lipped butler and the local mechanic with a grudge, are skillfully depicted, adding depth and complexity to the story. Each character is well-drawn, with their own secrets and motives, enhancing the mystery and adding layers to the investigation.
Fans of cozy mysteries will find much to love in this novel. Warren’s writing is charming and accessible, capturing the essence of the genre with its blend of light-hearted moments and darker undertones. The historical setting adds a unique flavor, transporting readers to a time of elegance and societal expectations while weaving in the thrill of a whodunit. The interplay between Abigail’s modern sensibilities and the traditional backdrop of Darrington Manor creates a dynamic and engaging narrative.
Moreover, Death at Darrington Manor explores themes of class, ambition, and the hidden lives behind society’s polished façade. Abigail’s role as an outsider allows her to navigate these themes with a critical eye, uncovering the discrepancies between appearance and reality. Her determination to seek justice and uncover the truth, despite the dangers, adds a compelling layer to her character and the story.
Death at Darrington Manor is a captivating addition to the Abigail Dixon Mystery series. Nancy Warren has crafted a cozy historical mystery that is both intellectually stimulating and thoroughly entertaining. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and evocative setting, this novel is sure to delight fans of the genre and leave them eagerly awaiting Abigail Dixon’s next adventure. Warren’s ability to blend historical detail with a gripping mystery makes this book a standout read, perfect for those who enjoy a good puzzle set against a charmingly old-fashioned backdrop.
June 26, 2024
Abby, an American reporter living in Paris is invited to report on a high profile wedding in the English countryside. Unfortunately, there’s already been a murder and another one is on the itinerary. It is up to Abby to solve it with a little help from some familiar faces, including flatmate Vivian acting as her maid and Inspector Deschamps conveniently invited to the wedding. Did I mention that legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel is there to design the wedding dress? Yes, really, she makes another appearance, although she only has a small part to play in this entertaining sequel.
The plot uses a country house trope, with some of the other characters portraying the personalities of stock characters you’d expect. This was combined with a Downtown Abbey style view of aristocratic England during the nineteen twenties. A highlight of the book was seeing the tensions between old and new money, between English aristocrats with a fading family fortune and American new wealth.
It is best to read the first book in the series to get to know the journey Abby has already been on. However, even if you haven’t read the first one, she is a very likeable character with a Marple style ability to talk to others and find out information. We could have got deeper into her mindset and reasoning for coming up with the killer. Abby didn’t really put herself in any real danger and so suspense was lacking for me. I was glad to see that the story maintained a more realistic approach to her career development. This brought in some historical and social context for the time of what was considered a woman’s role and place.
The murder and incidents during the narrative were guessable and the killer was someone I had suspected all along. I also thought that the killer’s motives for murder came across as rather shallow and I wanted more of an insight into his state of mind.
The first murder and the plot behind it had an element of The Body in The Library (by Agatha Christie). This murder could had been covered in more depth. A background about the victim, a working class young woman would have added another layer and an extra emotive element to the novel.
Overall, the novel held my interest and it was a light, enjoyable read. I am awaiting the next adventure and am looking forward to reading more of Abby’s journey. I think there is a lot more to her character and story than we have discovered so far.
The plot uses a country house trope, with some of the other characters portraying the personalities of stock characters you’d expect. This was combined with a Downtown Abbey style view of aristocratic England during the nineteen twenties. A highlight of the book was seeing the tensions between old and new money, between English aristocrats with a fading family fortune and American new wealth.
It is best to read the first book in the series to get to know the journey Abby has already been on. However, even if you haven’t read the first one, she is a very likeable character with a Marple style ability to talk to others and find out information. We could have got deeper into her mindset and reasoning for coming up with the killer. Abby didn’t really put herself in any real danger and so suspense was lacking for me. I was glad to see that the story maintained a more realistic approach to her career development. This brought in some historical and social context for the time of what was considered a woman’s role and place.
The murder and incidents during the narrative were guessable and the killer was someone I had suspected all along. I also thought that the killer’s motives for murder came across as rather shallow and I wanted more of an insight into his state of mind.
The first murder and the plot behind it had an element of The Body in The Library (by Agatha Christie). This murder could had been covered in more depth. A background about the victim, a working class young woman would have added another layer and an extra emotive element to the novel.
Overall, the novel held my interest and it was a light, enjoyable read. I am awaiting the next adventure and am looking forward to reading more of Abby’s journey. I think there is a lot more to her character and story than we have discovered so far.
June 27, 2024
Readers, let's just declare June as "Nancy Warren Month" as I have a second release from Nancy Warren up today and this is series is coming close to be as wonderful as the Vampire knitters!
In the second book in the Abigail Dixon Mysteries, the reader is taken to Darrington Manor in England, where a dynasty-style wedding is about to take place. Abigail's next assignment is at the wedding of Cressida Wimborne and Reginald Mitchell. However, Abigail's investigative journalist's senses pick up that there is more in play at Darrington, when a local girl is found strangled and accidents seem to start happening indicating that someone wants one of the wedding party dead.
I'm a bit of a Nancy Warren fangirl. Her Vampire Knitting Mysteries got me out of a major reading slump last year, and I then proceeded to read her backlist of mysteries. However, I'm not one to say a mystery is great when it isn't. So when I say this mystery is wonderful you have to believe me!!
Death at Darrington Manor builds on the events that happen in the first book, Death of a Flapper. Abigail, our "plucky" young heroine is off to England, with her friend and roommate, Vivian, and is set to uncover a new mystery. However, in true cozy mystery fashion this book doesn't spoil the events of the first book, so you could definitely read this one before the first book.
I adore Abigail. She's trying to be taken as a serious investigative journalist, but is stuck reporting on "women's pages", but that doesn't stop her from using all her integrity and skills and uncover the real story. This time she has her friend, Vivian, who is looking for a new adventure, and Inspector Henri, who is a friend of the Wimbornes, by her side. I'm really loving the slow build of friendship between Abby and Henri. Do I hope there is something more? Of course. However, with Abby being a "plucky" heroine and a serious reporter, it's anyone's guess what her romantic future holds.
The mystery itself was quite thrilling. High speed cars, a fishing accident and a strangled girl made for an edge-of-the-seat mystery. Nancy Warren threw a couple of literal red herrings my way, but I did manage to solve it before Abby did!
If you love Agatha Christie mysteries, I strongly recommend this series. It's got historical appeal, especially with real life characters making an entrance, a thrilling mystery and memorable characters that you are going to want to visit with again.
In the second book in the Abigail Dixon Mysteries, the reader is taken to Darrington Manor in England, where a dynasty-style wedding is about to take place. Abigail's next assignment is at the wedding of Cressida Wimborne and Reginald Mitchell. However, Abigail's investigative journalist's senses pick up that there is more in play at Darrington, when a local girl is found strangled and accidents seem to start happening indicating that someone wants one of the wedding party dead.
I'm a bit of a Nancy Warren fangirl. Her Vampire Knitting Mysteries got me out of a major reading slump last year, and I then proceeded to read her backlist of mysteries. However, I'm not one to say a mystery is great when it isn't. So when I say this mystery is wonderful you have to believe me!!
Death at Darrington Manor builds on the events that happen in the first book, Death of a Flapper. Abigail, our "plucky" young heroine is off to England, with her friend and roommate, Vivian, and is set to uncover a new mystery. However, in true cozy mystery fashion this book doesn't spoil the events of the first book, so you could definitely read this one before the first book.
I adore Abigail. She's trying to be taken as a serious investigative journalist, but is stuck reporting on "women's pages", but that doesn't stop her from using all her integrity and skills and uncover the real story. This time she has her friend, Vivian, who is looking for a new adventure, and Inspector Henri, who is a friend of the Wimbornes, by her side. I'm really loving the slow build of friendship between Abby and Henri. Do I hope there is something more? Of course. However, with Abby being a "plucky" heroine and a serious reporter, it's anyone's guess what her romantic future holds.
The mystery itself was quite thrilling. High speed cars, a fishing accident and a strangled girl made for an edge-of-the-seat mystery. Nancy Warren threw a couple of literal red herrings my way, but I did manage to solve it before Abby did!
If you love Agatha Christie mysteries, I strongly recommend this series. It's got historical appeal, especially with real life characters making an entrance, a thrilling mystery and memorable characters that you are going to want to visit with again.
June 3, 2024
Note: Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Nancy Warren for the advanced reader copy of the book. This review will also be posted on NetGalley. What follows is my unbiased review of the book.
In the first book in the series, Murder at the Paris Fashion House, readers were introduced to Abigail Dixon, an American who moves to Paris in an attempt to escape her past. However, that past followed her to Paris. Although I don’t think it’s necessary to have read Murder at the Paris Fashion House prior to reading Death at Darrington Manor, I do think it helps for some of the background as to why Abigail has dresses designed for her by a Paris designer as well as relationships with several people who appear in this book.
Abigail works at the Paris office of a Chicago newspaper. She’s a journalist, but her editor sees her as only capable of covering women’s issues such as fashion and society. He sends her off to cover the wedding of Reginald Mitchell, the son of a wealthy American automobile manufacturer, to Cressida Wimborne, the daughter of Viscount and Viscountess Wimborne. It’s to be the wedding of the year, and Abigail is tasked with reporting on it.
Enlisting the help of her roommate and friend, Vivian, to act as her ladies maid, Abigail travels to England for the wedding. Upon arrival at Darrington Manor, she is tepidly welcomed by the Wimbornes. The economy has been hard on them, with death duties eating away at the family fortune over the years and the land becoming less and less profitable. Cressida’s marriage to a wealthy American will not solve problems for them, either.
To read my full review, please go to Death at Darrington Manor by Nancy Warren
In the first book in the series, Murder at the Paris Fashion House, readers were introduced to Abigail Dixon, an American who moves to Paris in an attempt to escape her past. However, that past followed her to Paris. Although I don’t think it’s necessary to have read Murder at the Paris Fashion House prior to reading Death at Darrington Manor, I do think it helps for some of the background as to why Abigail has dresses designed for her by a Paris designer as well as relationships with several people who appear in this book.
Abigail works at the Paris office of a Chicago newspaper. She’s a journalist, but her editor sees her as only capable of covering women’s issues such as fashion and society. He sends her off to cover the wedding of Reginald Mitchell, the son of a wealthy American automobile manufacturer, to Cressida Wimborne, the daughter of Viscount and Viscountess Wimborne. It’s to be the wedding of the year, and Abigail is tasked with reporting on it.
Enlisting the help of her roommate and friend, Vivian, to act as her ladies maid, Abigail travels to England for the wedding. Upon arrival at Darrington Manor, she is tepidly welcomed by the Wimbornes. The economy has been hard on them, with death duties eating away at the family fortune over the years and the land becoming less and less profitable. Cressida’s marriage to a wealthy American will not solve problems for them, either.
To read my full review, please go to Death at Darrington Manor by Nancy Warren
June 19, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Nancy Warren for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Death at Darrington Manor coming out June 27, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
When intrepid reporter Abigail Dixon swaps Paris for an English manor to cover the wedding of the year, she expects afternoon tea on the lawn and cocktails in the drawing room, not a man lying dead in a stream and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon arrives in Somerset to report on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon’s son and an English aristocrat’s daughter. But when a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and with the quaint village abuzz with gossip of a local woman discovered dead in London, Abigail quickly finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
As she investigates, Abigail unearths some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor and clues linking the two murders. From the lovelorn estate manager to a tight-lipped butler and local mechanic with an axe to grind, everyone is a possible suspect.
Determined to expose the culprit, and with danger lurking at every turn, can Abigail unveil the truth before the ‘wedding of the year’ becomes the obituary column?
I loved the first book and was excited to receive this book as well. Historical cozies are one of my favorite genres. Abigail is a strong and smart character. I loved that this book was set in a different place. I love the old English Manor stories. I thought the plot was really fun. Who doesn’t love an infamous, elegant wedding? I think having Chanel as a character brings something different to the story. I think Abigail had some good character development. I’m excited to check out the next book in the series!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys glamorous cozy mysteries!
When intrepid reporter Abigail Dixon swaps Paris for an English manor to cover the wedding of the year, she expects afternoon tea on the lawn and cocktails in the drawing room, not a man lying dead in a stream and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon arrives in Somerset to report on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon’s son and an English aristocrat’s daughter. But when a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and with the quaint village abuzz with gossip of a local woman discovered dead in London, Abigail quickly finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
As she investigates, Abigail unearths some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor and clues linking the two murders. From the lovelorn estate manager to a tight-lipped butler and local mechanic with an axe to grind, everyone is a possible suspect.
Determined to expose the culprit, and with danger lurking at every turn, can Abigail unveil the truth before the ‘wedding of the year’ becomes the obituary column?
I loved the first book and was excited to receive this book as well. Historical cozies are one of my favorite genres. Abigail is a strong and smart character. I loved that this book was set in a different place. I love the old English Manor stories. I thought the plot was really fun. Who doesn’t love an infamous, elegant wedding? I think having Chanel as a character brings something different to the story. I think Abigail had some good character development. I’m excited to check out the next book in the series!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys glamorous cozy mysteries!
June 23, 2024
I thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advance reader copy of Death at Darrington Manor. All opinions and comments are my own.
Viscount Winborne’s daughter is getting married at Darrington Manor, and as much as she would like to be covering “real” stories, reporter Abigail Dixon is sent by her editor at the Chicago International Post to cover this high society wedding. She hates it, but since the groom’s father is a big advertiser and has requested her attendance (she’s “famous” since she was involved in a murder investigation – see book #1, Murder at the Paris Fashion Show), off she goes to the ancestral pile.
Abby might get her wish, though. While everyone’s getting ready for the big event (including Coco Chanel doing fittings for the wedding gown – our time frame is 1920s England), the best man is shot to death. And because she has a nose for news -- and a propensity for solving crimes -- Abby realizes the “complicated emotions” that are at play form the basis for a backdrop of hate and jealousy and calculation that can only lead to one thing -- murder.
Abby is a “good” character, not overly in your face or flighty, which can happen in many a cozy mystery heroine. Author Nancy Warren has given us someone very real and down to earth, a definite plus. And for mystery-lovers, there’s plenty of suspects to decide about, and since this is a historical mystery, a history lesson or two -- ask farmer George Smith what he thinks about Americans, for instance.
Our girl Abby may have been “in the know” with what’s happened at Darrington Manor, including the solving of two killings, but Editor Walter Strutt reminds her that the society pages are still her beat. So, it’s back to Paris and more “what’s new on the hemline front,” presumably. But that’s a tale for the next book, no doubt.
Viscount Winborne’s daughter is getting married at Darrington Manor, and as much as she would like to be covering “real” stories, reporter Abigail Dixon is sent by her editor at the Chicago International Post to cover this high society wedding. She hates it, but since the groom’s father is a big advertiser and has requested her attendance (she’s “famous” since she was involved in a murder investigation – see book #1, Murder at the Paris Fashion Show), off she goes to the ancestral pile.
Abby might get her wish, though. While everyone’s getting ready for the big event (including Coco Chanel doing fittings for the wedding gown – our time frame is 1920s England), the best man is shot to death. And because she has a nose for news -- and a propensity for solving crimes -- Abby realizes the “complicated emotions” that are at play form the basis for a backdrop of hate and jealousy and calculation that can only lead to one thing -- murder.
Abby is a “good” character, not overly in your face or flighty, which can happen in many a cozy mystery heroine. Author Nancy Warren has given us someone very real and down to earth, a definite plus. And for mystery-lovers, there’s plenty of suspects to decide about, and since this is a historical mystery, a history lesson or two -- ask farmer George Smith what he thinks about Americans, for instance.
Our girl Abby may have been “in the know” with what’s happened at Darrington Manor, including the solving of two killings, but Editor Walter Strutt reminds her that the society pages are still her beat. So, it’s back to Paris and more “what’s new on the hemline front,” presumably. But that’s a tale for the next book, no doubt.
May 30, 2024
An intrepid reporter, an idyllic setting, and an eclectic cast of characters; prime ingredients for a fun cozy mystery. Abigail Dixon is a reporter in Paris in the mid 1920's, and she's trying to find her footing in a male-dominated profession. So she's not very happy when her editor sends her off to Somerset England to cover a society wedding rather than reporting on the more "important" stories she'd like to be on. However, things get a lot more interesting when she arrives to find out that a local woman has recently been murdered and then one of the wedding guest dies during a fishing trip. Abigail will have to use all her investigative skills to figure out what's going on in this quaint village before anyone else gets hurt.
This is the second installment in the Abigail Dixon series, and one thing I like about it is that there is a lot of room for growth. Abigail's career is at the edge of taking off, and her reporting has the potential to take her off to many different adventures. Even in this book, we start to see the international aspects this series could take, and I think that could take a fun little cozy into something even better. The characters are likable and interesting, and the addition of some real-life, famous historical figures is a plus. I *was* able to guess the ending in this one, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's nice to get one right every once in a while. Over all, I found this to be a quick, fun read with lots of potential for future books in the series.
This is the second installment in the Abigail Dixon series, and one thing I like about it is that there is a lot of room for growth. Abigail's career is at the edge of taking off, and her reporting has the potential to take her off to many different adventures. Even in this book, we start to see the international aspects this series could take, and I think that could take a fun little cozy into something even better. The characters are likable and interesting, and the addition of some real-life, famous historical figures is a plus. I *was* able to guess the ending in this one, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's nice to get one right every once in a while. Over all, I found this to be a quick, fun read with lots of potential for future books in the series.
May 19, 2024
Book Title: Death at Darrington Manor
Series: Abigail Dixon Mystery #2
Author: Nancy Warren
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Historical Fiction
Pub Date: June 27, 2024
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages 285
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon is a reporter and assigned a wedding to cover. She considers this another fluff assignment for the women’s page. But she is willing to cover it hopeful her work will merit something more In the future.
She leaves the glamor of Paris and goes to London to what is regarded by high society as the ‘wedding of the year”. Reginald Mitchell the son of American car tycoon and Cressida Wimborne the daughter of an English aristocrat!
Abigail is expects posh afternoon having tea and later cocktails Certainly not reporting on the two deaths one of a man on a fishing trip and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
As she investigates, Abigail is able to find some very interesting as well as dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor.
I love a good cozy and Nancy Warren didn’t disappoint. She has written more than 100 novels – how is this only my first???
Well it certainly won’t be my last!
Want to thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 27, 2024.
Series: Abigail Dixon Mystery #2
Author: Nancy Warren
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Historical Fiction
Pub Date: June 27, 2024
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages 285
Spring 1925. Abigail Dixon is a reporter and assigned a wedding to cover. She considers this another fluff assignment for the women’s page. But she is willing to cover it hopeful her work will merit something more In the future.
She leaves the glamor of Paris and goes to London to what is regarded by high society as the ‘wedding of the year”. Reginald Mitchell the son of American car tycoon and Cressida Wimborne the daughter of an English aristocrat!
Abigail is expects posh afternoon having tea and later cocktails Certainly not reporting on the two deaths one of a man on a fishing trip and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
As she investigates, Abigail is able to find some very interesting as well as dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor.
I love a good cozy and Nancy Warren didn’t disappoint. She has written more than 100 novels – how is this only my first???
Well it certainly won’t be my last!
Want to thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 27, 2024.
June 13, 2024
Its 1925 and Abigail Dixon is living in Paris working for a Chicago Newspaper's Paris office. She longs to be taken serious as a journalist but only get assignments for society and women's page news. She is sent to Darrington Manor in England to cover the pre-wedding festivities and wedding of the daughter of an English aristocrat and a very wealthy and powerful American businessman. She was specifically requested by the groom's father who is an admirer of her "spunk."
This story grabbed my attention and didn't let go until the end. The mystery was well crafted and kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed all the characters. I liked how they were developed to show that people have different sides to their personalities. People that are likeable can also do bad things. Abigail (Abby) and her best friend Vivien complimented each other and kept each other from getting too far out in left field as they try to get to answers. I also enjoyed the character of French Det Henri Deschamps, her nemeses from the previous book, who is there to support his old friend, the bride's father. I look forward to seeing Abby and Det Deschamps match wits again.
A great read and I highly recommend. I do give warning that you will not want to put this one down!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this story.
This story grabbed my attention and didn't let go until the end. The mystery was well crafted and kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed all the characters. I liked how they were developed to show that people have different sides to their personalities. People that are likeable can also do bad things. Abigail (Abby) and her best friend Vivien complimented each other and kept each other from getting too far out in left field as they try to get to answers. I also enjoyed the character of French Det Henri Deschamps, her nemeses from the previous book, who is there to support his old friend, the bride's father. I look forward to seeing Abby and Det Deschamps match wits again.
A great read and I highly recommend. I do give warning that you will not want to put this one down!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this story.
June 30, 2024
I seem to be reading so many books set in the 1920s. The subjects are murder and mystery and deviousness nothing of what is supposed to be genteel and respectable so that ultimately it seems a facade, especially the more aristocratic the family is.
Abigail is a journalist working in Paris. Her heart is set on “meaty” topics but her editor has kept her firmly on the women’s pages. Now sent to Somerset to cover a society wedding - impoverished, county bride and brash millionaire from America, she and her friend Vivian masquerading as her maid faces many surprises as soon as they land at the estate.
Firstly the headlines are about the ex maid Gladys found strangled in London and the attempted murder of the bridegroom when a brand new car is found with the brake liners cut. This is followed by the murder of a protege of the American family who was almost a second son in the family.
Abigail knows the three incidents are connected but no one including the detectives on the case are taking any clues she offers seriously. Abigail uses her ideas skillfully coming out with the suspect who was far removed from the original list.
Descriptive in both the detective genre, the description of social life in the 1920s and the divide that existed amongst the classes added depth to the story.
Abigail is a journalist working in Paris. Her heart is set on “meaty” topics but her editor has kept her firmly on the women’s pages. Now sent to Somerset to cover a society wedding - impoverished, county bride and brash millionaire from America, she and her friend Vivian masquerading as her maid faces many surprises as soon as they land at the estate.
Firstly the headlines are about the ex maid Gladys found strangled in London and the attempted murder of the bridegroom when a brand new car is found with the brake liners cut. This is followed by the murder of a protege of the American family who was almost a second son in the family.
Abigail knows the three incidents are connected but no one including the detectives on the case are taking any clues she offers seriously. Abigail uses her ideas skillfully coming out with the suspect who was far removed from the original list.
Descriptive in both the detective genre, the description of social life in the 1920s and the divide that existed amongst the classes added depth to the story.
July 8, 2024
Death at Darrington Manor
A totally gripping 1920s cozy mystery (An Abigail Dixon Mystery Book 2)
by Nancy Warren
Pub DateJun 27 2024
Storm Publishing
General Fiction \(Adult\)| Historical Fiction| Mystery & Thrillers
Storm Publishing and Netgalley provided me with a copy of Death at Darrington Manner for review:
Abigail Dixon expects afternoon tea on the lawn and cocktails in the drawing room when she swaps Paris for an English manor for the wedding of the year, not to find a man dead in a stream and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
It was spring 1925. In Somerset, Abigail Dixon reports on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon's son and an English aristocrat's daughter. After a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and with the quaint village abuzz with gossip about a woman discovered dead in London, Abigail finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
During her investigation, Abigail uncovers some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor, along with clues linking the two murders. The lovelorn estate manager, the tight-lipped butler, and the local mechanic with an axe to grind are all possible suspects.
Will Abigail be able to uncover the truth before the 'wedding of the year' becomes an obituary?
I give Death at Darrington Manner five out of fivestars!
Happy Reading!
A totally gripping 1920s cozy mystery (An Abigail Dixon Mystery Book 2)
by Nancy Warren
Pub DateJun 27 2024
Storm Publishing
General Fiction \(Adult\)| Historical Fiction| Mystery & Thrillers
Storm Publishing and Netgalley provided me with a copy of Death at Darrington Manner for review:
Abigail Dixon expects afternoon tea on the lawn and cocktails in the drawing room when she swaps Paris for an English manor for the wedding of the year, not to find a man dead in a stream and a woman strangled by her own silk stockings.
It was spring 1925. In Somerset, Abigail Dixon reports on the high-society wedding of an American car tycoon's son and an English aristocrat's daughter. After a man is murdered on a trout-fishing expedition, and with the quaint village abuzz with gossip about a woman discovered dead in London, Abigail finds herself entangled in a web of murder and scandal.
During her investigation, Abigail uncovers some dark secrets lurking within Darrington Manor, along with clues linking the two murders. The lovelorn estate manager, the tight-lipped butler, and the local mechanic with an axe to grind are all possible suspects.
Will Abigail be able to uncover the truth before the 'wedding of the year' becomes an obituary?
I give Death at Darrington Manner five out of fivestars!
Happy Reading!
July 16, 2024
In the second Abigail Dixon mystery, readers join her at a high-society wedding in Somerset, where English aristocrat Cecilia is marrying the son of an American car tycoon. However, a girl from the village who had worked at Darrington Manor dies in London shortly before the wedding, and dark secrets, a second murder, and another murder attempt in the leadup to the wedding draws Abby into the investigation. Once again running into the same French police officer who had investigated her stepmother’s murder, Abigail must expose the murderer in a town where everyone has a motive. Abigail is once again a fantastic protagonist and fascinating heroine with the eye for detail and the intelligence and stubbornness necessary to make her mark in the newspaper industry of 1925. This new murder and the new cast of characters are complex and unique, and the location is reminiscent of both Downton Abbey and Agatha Christie. The setting and the different plot elements once again encourage readers to solve the case with Abigail and take note of the relevant details. Once again creating another fantastic case and bringing new and familiar characters to life, Warren once again proves that Abigail Dixon is a wonderful detective character with a bright future ahead of her.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy.
June 14, 2024
Journalist Abigail Dixon was assigned to cover the high society wedding of Cressida Wimborne, daughter of Lord and Lady Wimborne, to Reginald Mitchell, son of the fabulously wealthy Charles Mitchell, innovative Detroit automaker, and his wife Mildred. Abby lived in Paris and had been consigned to cover “women’s news,” much to her chagrin. But this assignment called for her to spend a week at the Wimbornes’ home, Darrington Manor in England.
Abby, along with her best friend Vivian, pretending to be Abby’s lady’s maid, arrived in England prepared to enjoy a week of parties and, of course, the wedding. Strange events began to take place—a automobile accident that injured Reggie, the death in London of a poor girl who had worked at Darrington Manor, and the death of one of the guests at the Manor. The evidence seemed pretty clear, implicating an employee at the Manor, but Abby’s journalism instincts told her that more investigation was needed. She longed to report hard news, not just society events.
It seemed to me that the plot unfolded rather slowly, and I was at least halfway through the book before I was truly engaged with the story. However, the story gained momentum, and ended with a satisfying twist. A fun read. I recommend it to lovers of cozy mysteries.
Abby, along with her best friend Vivian, pretending to be Abby’s lady’s maid, arrived in England prepared to enjoy a week of parties and, of course, the wedding. Strange events began to take place—a automobile accident that injured Reggie, the death in London of a poor girl who had worked at Darrington Manor, and the death of one of the guests at the Manor. The evidence seemed pretty clear, implicating an employee at the Manor, but Abby’s journalism instincts told her that more investigation was needed. She longed to report hard news, not just society events.
It seemed to me that the plot unfolded rather slowly, and I was at least halfway through the book before I was truly engaged with the story. However, the story gained momentum, and ended with a satisfying twist. A fun read. I recommend it to lovers of cozy mysteries.
June 27, 2024
Abigail is probably what they would call plucky in the 1920s though she would hate the word. She is determined to be a hard news reporter but her editor just wants to confine her to the woman's page filled with gossip and fashion. Luckily for her murder seems to follow her. On her latest assignment at a high society wedding between an American millionaire and a titled British family but very cash poor, the best man is found murdered. Well, Abigail, with the help of her roommate and pretend maid, is determined to report the real facts and uncover a murderer before the wrong person goes to the gallows!
I like Abigail's ambition and work ethic. She might not like being confined to the woman's page but she will do her best job anyway and if another opportunity comes along she will grab it. There are some funny moments and I really liked her partnership with her roommate, even if that woman falls in love way too easily.
There are lots of suspects, secrets and twists to make this a satisfying mystery. I would read more about Abigail and her adventures. I especially would like to read more about her life in Paris.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I like Abigail's ambition and work ethic. She might not like being confined to the woman's page but she will do her best job anyway and if another opportunity comes along she will grab it. There are some funny moments and I really liked her partnership with her roommate, even if that woman falls in love way too easily.
There are lots of suspects, secrets and twists to make this a satisfying mystery. I would read more about Abigail and her adventures. I especially would like to read more about her life in Paris.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 15, 2025
The 2nd in this newer series finds budding "plucky" journalist Abigail Dixon sent on an assignment to England to report on a wedding. Having just moved to Paris to work for a paper focused on American expats (The Chicago Post International), she is asked to spend a week with the family of the bride. Luckily, Abby still has her place as the muse of a famous designer who creates her a new wardrobe, and her best friend/flatmate agrees to pretend to be her maid. Word of the first murder crosses their paths before they even arrive at the English manor. Abby balances getting information to write the stories her editor wants from her while also trying to build up her journalistic skills around tougher news areas to prove what she can do. The houseguests from the 2 families are an assortment of characters who soon find themselves injured in accidents, viewed in clandestine meetings, suspected of crimes, and victims of new crimes. Add to this that one of the guests is the former Police Inspector from Paris that Abby worried would arrest her along with Coco Chanel, and it makes for a confusing situation. Abby jumps in to help solve the crimes and protect innocent people from going to jail.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read this book.
June 1, 2024
"Death at Darrington Manor" was a cozy mystery set in 1920's England. "Plucky" journalist Abigail Dixon is sent to cover an aristocrat wedding between British nobility and American industrial royalty when all of a sudden she finds herself in the midst of another suspected murder. Abigail's simply assignment suddenly turns into a much more nefarious story as she finds herself surrounded by possible murderers.
Overall, I thought that this was a fun, quick read. The mystery itself was interesting and I thought that the author did a nice job of creating a plot that was potentially solvable, yet not obvious. As a character, Abigail is quite charming and I am interested in reading the first book in the series as well. However, I did find certain scenes or pieces of dialogue to become quite repetitive and I found that there were a few too many side characters that distracted from the plot. For example, I found the inclusion of Coco Chanel's character to be quite unnecessary.
Nevertheless, Nancy Warren knows how to craft an enjoyable cozy mystery and if you are a fan of the genre, then it is highly likely that you will enjoy being whisked away to rural England with Abigail Dixon and her crew.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advanced copy of this book.
Overall, I thought that this was a fun, quick read. The mystery itself was interesting and I thought that the author did a nice job of creating a plot that was potentially solvable, yet not obvious. As a character, Abigail is quite charming and I am interested in reading the first book in the series as well. However, I did find certain scenes or pieces of dialogue to become quite repetitive and I found that there were a few too many side characters that distracted from the plot. For example, I found the inclusion of Coco Chanel's character to be quite unnecessary.
Nevertheless, Nancy Warren knows how to craft an enjoyable cozy mystery and if you are a fan of the genre, then it is highly likely that you will enjoy being whisked away to rural England with Abigail Dixon and her crew.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advanced copy of this book.
June 27, 2024
Abby in spite of her past success in still relegated to covering social news. Her latest assignment is to go to Darrington Manor to cover a wedding between a young woman from Darrington Manor to the son of a US automobile tycoon. Fortunately, her designer is thrilled to design her gowns for the trip and her best friend is going as her lady’s maid. This will be an adventure, just not the one Abby wanted. When arriving in London, she sees a story about a young woman from the Darrington Manor area who was found dead in London. Maybe she’ll make a real story besides the social fluff.
Abby is surprised to find that Coco Chanel will also be staying as a guest for the wedding, as well as Inspector Henri Deschamps. Inspector Deschamps was on the previous case where Abby was charged with the murder of her step-mother. Henri is a war buddy of the Lord. Join Abby as she tries to solve the young woman’s murder as well as one more close to home.
This is a great second in the series. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Abby is surprised to find that Coco Chanel will also be staying as a guest for the wedding, as well as Inspector Henri Deschamps. Inspector Deschamps was on the previous case where Abby was charged with the murder of her step-mother. Henri is a war buddy of the Lord. Join Abby as she tries to solve the young woman’s murder as well as one more close to home.
This is a great second in the series. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
June 27, 2024
Abigal Dixon, a reporter for the Chicago International Post in Paris, travels to Darrington Manor in Somerset to cover a high-society wedding. The groom is the son of an American tycoon, and the bride is the daughter of the English aristocrat owner of Darrington Manor.
The joy surrounding the pre-wedding celebrations – afternoon teas and drinks in the drawing room is soon dampened by tragedy. During a trout-fishing trip, a young man is found dead. A young woman employee of the Manor was recently found murdered in London, setting everyone on edge.
Anxious for a story, Abigail begins her investigation and soon finds that deep, dark secrets surround the Manor. Her suspects include the Manor estate manager, secretly in love with the bride-to-be, a butler, and a local mechanic with several grievances against the manor's owner.
Abigal throws herself into her investigation, knowing that the stakes are high. Will she be able to uncover the killer and avert a potential disaster at the wedding?
The joy surrounding the pre-wedding celebrations – afternoon teas and drinks in the drawing room is soon dampened by tragedy. During a trout-fishing trip, a young man is found dead. A young woman employee of the Manor was recently found murdered in London, setting everyone on edge.
Anxious for a story, Abigail begins her investigation and soon finds that deep, dark secrets surround the Manor. Her suspects include the Manor estate manager, secretly in love with the bride-to-be, a butler, and a local mechanic with several grievances against the manor's owner.
Abigal throws herself into her investigation, knowing that the stakes are high. Will she be able to uncover the killer and avert a potential disaster at the wedding?
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