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A Very Vexing Murder: Harriet Smith Investigates
Not yet published
Expected 12 May 26A witty debut whodunit that reimagines Harriet Smith, the gullible sidekick of Jane Austen’s
Emma
, as a spitfire con woman, hired to break off an engagement and uncover a murderer in the genteel village of Highbury.
“Seldom, very seldom, does complete truth belong to any human disclosure.” —Jane Austen, Emma
Is a killer lurking in the idyllic country domain of Emma Woodhouse?
No longer Emma’s naïve companion, Harriet Smith is a feisty con-woman-turned-detective tasked with breaking off Frank Churchill’s engagement and uncovering his aunt’s would-be murderer. The shrewd Mrs. Churchill suspects Frank’s unsuitable fiancée, Jane Fairfax, is out to kill her, while Harriet suspects little more than a society scandal. But what begins as a routine investigation among Highbury’s elite quickly spirals into a web of deception, deadly secrets, and a game of survival.
As Harriet interrogates a growing list of suspects with the help of her long-suffering best friend, Robert Martin, not only does she have to contend with a potential homicidal maniac and striking out as a single woman in Regency society but is also afraid her father (and former partner-in-crime) is out for revenge.
With a cast of unforgettable characters—including a charming scoundrel, a lovesick farmer, a ghoulish butler, and a ruthless heiress determined to hide her skeletons at any cost— this brilliantly reimagined mystery featuring the characters from Jane Austen’s Emma is as deliciously dark as it is delightfully clever.
“Seldom, very seldom, does complete truth belong to any human disclosure.” —Jane Austen, Emma
Is a killer lurking in the idyllic country domain of Emma Woodhouse?
No longer Emma’s naïve companion, Harriet Smith is a feisty con-woman-turned-detective tasked with breaking off Frank Churchill’s engagement and uncovering his aunt’s would-be murderer. The shrewd Mrs. Churchill suspects Frank’s unsuitable fiancée, Jane Fairfax, is out to kill her, while Harriet suspects little more than a society scandal. But what begins as a routine investigation among Highbury’s elite quickly spirals into a web of deception, deadly secrets, and a game of survival.
As Harriet interrogates a growing list of suspects with the help of her long-suffering best friend, Robert Martin, not only does she have to contend with a potential homicidal maniac and striking out as a single woman in Regency society but is also afraid her father (and former partner-in-crime) is out for revenge.
With a cast of unforgettable characters—including a charming scoundrel, a lovesick farmer, a ghoulish butler, and a ruthless heiress determined to hide her skeletons at any cost— this brilliantly reimagined mystery featuring the characters from Jane Austen’s Emma is as deliciously dark as it is delightfully clever.
432 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and Corvus for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I met Lucy at the Harrogate Crime Festival 2025 whilst we were in the queue to meet Leodora Darlington (author of The Exes - which is brilliant). Lucy was a beautiful person, so warm and friendly, and I instantly put her book on my list and was thrilled to be sent a digital ARC. And it's set in the world of Jane Austen so what could be better?
Jane Fairfax is from Emma, which, whilst I own a copy, it is not an Austen book I've actually read, and so I came into this not really knowing what to expect.
You can practically see Lucy's love for Jane Austen oozing off the page. You can do research, sure, but passion can improve a story far more than research alone can.
It's a 2026 book but it could pass as much older. She's got the pacing of the sentences right, the form of chapters. She's gone into so much detail - as classic novels tend to do - that you can practically step into this world.
I admit, there's a lot going on. I did wonder if it was too much but overall I think it's okay. You've got the "vexing murder" storyline, but there's also romance, revenge, and scandals to keep you on your toes.
I think she's got the tone right. To try and write a story based in the world of one of the most loved authors was always going to be a tall order, but she's smashed it. It feels familiar, like we've gone to meet an old friend, but Lucy hasn't tried to be Jane Austen, you can clearly still hear her own voice.
I liked reading about Harriet. She's a strong, independent woman during a time where women were not encouraged to be so. She's so well written. And I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes where someone underestimates her, just to be proven otherwise. She is the star of the book, so natural and familiar and likeable.
Did I want more of the "vexing murder"? Yes I did. Well, no. It's not that I wanted more, it's that I wanted it earlier. What there is brilliant, don't get me wrong, I'd just have liked a bit more focus on that part earlier in the story, but that's a personal thing.
I did find it a little difficult to keep up with all the characters, but that's definitely a me thin rather than something wrong with the book, as I am terrible with names and faces and people.
I read it in a day, I just couldn't put it down. It got more exciting as it went along and I didn't see the ending coming at all. Overall the story, characters, themes, pacing, writing style, language, historical elements...everything is so enjoyable.
I am hoping this is the beginning of a series. It finishes well if it is just a standalone, but I do want more.
For a debut it was very promising indeed, and Lucy will definitely be a name I look out for, and when she's this rich and famous novelist I can say "I know her".
Thanks to NetGalley and Corvus for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I met Lucy at the Harrogate Crime Festival 2025 whilst we were in the queue to meet Leodora Darlington (author of The Exes - which is brilliant). Lucy was a beautiful person, so warm and friendly, and I instantly put her book on my list and was thrilled to be sent a digital ARC. And it's set in the world of Jane Austen so what could be better?
Jane Fairfax is from Emma, which, whilst I own a copy, it is not an Austen book I've actually read, and so I came into this not really knowing what to expect.
You can practically see Lucy's love for Jane Austen oozing off the page. You can do research, sure, but passion can improve a story far more than research alone can.
It's a 2026 book but it could pass as much older. She's got the pacing of the sentences right, the form of chapters. She's gone into so much detail - as classic novels tend to do - that you can practically step into this world.
I admit, there's a lot going on. I did wonder if it was too much but overall I think it's okay. You've got the "vexing murder" storyline, but there's also romance, revenge, and scandals to keep you on your toes.
I think she's got the tone right. To try and write a story based in the world of one of the most loved authors was always going to be a tall order, but she's smashed it. It feels familiar, like we've gone to meet an old friend, but Lucy hasn't tried to be Jane Austen, you can clearly still hear her own voice.
I liked reading about Harriet. She's a strong, independent woman during a time where women were not encouraged to be so. She's so well written. And I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes where someone underestimates her, just to be proven otherwise. She is the star of the book, so natural and familiar and likeable.
Did I want more of the "vexing murder"? Yes I did. Well, no. It's not that I wanted more, it's that I wanted it earlier. What there is brilliant, don't get me wrong, I'd just have liked a bit more focus on that part earlier in the story, but that's a personal thing.
I did find it a little difficult to keep up with all the characters, but that's definitely a me thin rather than something wrong with the book, as I am terrible with names and faces and people.
I read it in a day, I just couldn't put it down. It got more exciting as it went along and I didn't see the ending coming at all. Overall the story, characters, themes, pacing, writing style, language, historical elements...everything is so enjoyable.
I am hoping this is the beginning of a series. It finishes well if it is just a standalone, but I do want more.
For a debut it was very promising indeed, and Lucy will definitely be a name I look out for, and when she's this rich and famous novelist I can say "I know her".
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I went back and forth between three stars and four so let's put this at a 3.5. There was a lot I liked about this book, but also some things that I did not. I loved the re-imagining of the characters and how the author kept to some of the events from the original story. Considering so many characters were getting new facets to their personalities I wish the author had done something new with Miss Bates. Like Harriet there is so much room for development and chances to show a different aspect of her personality. I think my favorite re-write for a character was Mrs. Elton - that was a nice twist and offered a pretty unlikeable character (from the original) a chance to be something more. Some people might not like the altered ending here for Jane and Frank, but I did. The author put more of a Henry Crawford spin on Frank Churchill's character with him seeking out the kindest character hoping it would make him a better person rather than maybe truly being in love with her. My primary problem with the book was the pacing, it felt like it dragged a little in parts and time was spent on things that ultimately did not really matter. And then the big reveal at the end pretty much came out of nowhere. I also wasn't always a big fan of Robert. He's made to be an important character but he ends up being more of a bumbling sidekick to Harriet. And I did not like the side plot with him and Denny - it made Robert seem selfish and careless with the feelings of others. The final aspect of the book that I did not enjoy was the relationship between Harriet and Frank - I just get tired of the strong, independent woman who cannot resist the charms of the handsome (but selfish and fickle) man. But it did make it clear that Jane ultimately made the right decision at the end. If this is a series, I would happily read the next book as I would like to see more of what happens with Harriet and the other characters in the future. Perhaps another team-up with Mrs. Elton?
I went back and forth between three stars and four so let's put this at a 3.5. There was a lot I liked about this book, but also some things that I did not. I loved the re-imagining of the characters and how the author kept to some of the events from the original story. Considering so many characters were getting new facets to their personalities I wish the author had done something new with Miss Bates. Like Harriet there is so much room for development and chances to show a different aspect of her personality. I think my favorite re-write for a character was Mrs. Elton - that was a nice twist and offered a pretty unlikeable character (from the original) a chance to be something more. Some people might not like the altered ending here for Jane and Frank, but I did. The author put more of a Henry Crawford spin on Frank Churchill's character with him seeking out the kindest character hoping it would make him a better person rather than maybe truly being in love with her. My primary problem with the book was the pacing, it felt like it dragged a little in parts and time was spent on things that ultimately did not really matter. And then the big reveal at the end pretty much came out of nowhere. I also wasn't always a big fan of Robert. He's made to be an important character but he ends up being more of a bumbling sidekick to Harriet. And I did not like the side plot with him and Denny - it made Robert seem selfish and careless with the feelings of others. The final aspect of the book that I did not enjoy was the relationship between Harriet and Frank - I just get tired of the strong, independent woman who cannot resist the charms of the handsome (but selfish and fickle) man. But it did make it clear that Jane ultimately made the right decision at the end. If this is a series, I would happily read the next book as I would like to see more of what happens with Harriet and the other characters in the future. Perhaps another team-up with Mrs. Elton?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What an absolute delight! A Very Vexing Murder is a clever, witty blend of Austen-esque charm and classic whodunnit intrigue. Harriet Smith as an amateur sleuth is such a fun twist—her sharp observations and unexpected cunning make her the perfect (and most unlikely) detective.
The story sparkles with humour and period detail, yet the mystery at its heart is genuinely gripping. I loved the tangled web of motives and secrets surrounding Frank Churchill, Jane Fairfax, and the ever-suspicious Mrs Elton. Harriet’s investigation kept me guessing right to the end, and the romantic tension added just the right amount of spice.
As a fan of Austen, I adored the way Lucy Andrews captured the tone and manners of the era while weaving in a murder plot that feels fresh and exciting. It’s smart, playful, and thoroughly entertaining—a treat for anyone who loves historical mysteries with a literary twist.
I couldn’t stop smiling while reading this one. If you enjoy Austen-inspired fiction with a dash of danger and a heroine who’s far more resourceful than anyone gives her credit for, this is a must-read!
With thanks to Lucy Andrew, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The story sparkles with humour and period detail, yet the mystery at its heart is genuinely gripping. I loved the tangled web of motives and secrets surrounding Frank Churchill, Jane Fairfax, and the ever-suspicious Mrs Elton. Harriet’s investigation kept me guessing right to the end, and the romantic tension added just the right amount of spice.
As a fan of Austen, I adored the way Lucy Andrews captured the tone and manners of the era while weaving in a murder plot that feels fresh and exciting. It’s smart, playful, and thoroughly entertaining—a treat for anyone who loves historical mysteries with a literary twist.
I couldn’t stop smiling while reading this one. If you enjoy Austen-inspired fiction with a dash of danger and a heroine who’s far more resourceful than anyone gives her credit for, this is a must-read!
With thanks to Lucy Andrew, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A very vexing murder
By Lucy Andrew
Published by Atlantic Books
A beautifully written murder mystery filled to the brim with all the features of Austen!Expect romance, social standing, sharp irony and witty dialogue to keep you turning each page with anticipation.
Step back in time with Lucy Andrew’s twist on the classic Austen’s Emma, as utterly charming characters plunge you into the twists and turns of love, gossip and murder!
When Mrs Churchill is convinced someone is trying to kill her, she employs Harriet Smith, companion and con woman!
Then knowing that Jane Fairfax has won the heart of her nephew, Frank, she has nothing but devious plans to break off their engagement to uncover her villain.
But as Harriet's list of suspects grows, more deadly deals get in her way.
Will she uncover the truth that history is trying to conceal?
Will she battle her own demons to save the next victim?
And will she avoid falling for the charming Frank Churchill herself?
What’s not to love if you are a classic lover of times gone by?
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
By Lucy Andrew
Published by Atlantic Books
A beautifully written murder mystery filled to the brim with all the features of Austen!Expect romance, social standing, sharp irony and witty dialogue to keep you turning each page with anticipation.
Step back in time with Lucy Andrew’s twist on the classic Austen’s Emma, as utterly charming characters plunge you into the twists and turns of love, gossip and murder!
When Mrs Churchill is convinced someone is trying to kill her, she employs Harriet Smith, companion and con woman!
Then knowing that Jane Fairfax has won the heart of her nephew, Frank, she has nothing but devious plans to break off their engagement to uncover her villain.
But as Harriet's list of suspects grows, more deadly deals get in her way.
Will she uncover the truth that history is trying to conceal?
Will she battle her own demons to save the next victim?
And will she avoid falling for the charming Frank Churchill herself?
What’s not to love if you are a classic lover of times gone by?
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
November 30, 2025
Lucy Andrew’s A Very Vexing Murder is a clever twist on Austen’s Emma, transforming Harriet Smith into a sharp witted con woman turned detective. This bold reimagining is the novel’s greatest strength: Harriet’s voice is lively, her independence refreshing, and her investigation into Highbury’s secrets adds a thrilling layer of suspense to the genteel Regency setting. The murder mystery itself is engaging, with plenty of scandal and deception to keep readers hooked, and the ending leaves the door open for future books in a series.
That said, the book occasionally tries to juggle too much at once. Between family revenge, romantic entanglements, and society scandals, the central mystery sometimes gets lost in the shuffle, making the plot feel crowded and uneven. Still, even when the threads tangle, the ride remains enjoyable thanks to Harriet’s spirited narration and the inventive blend of Austenian manners with crime fiction. Readers who appreciate strong female leads and a fresh spin on classic literature will find this a rewarding, if occasionally chaotic, read.
That said, the book occasionally tries to juggle too much at once. Between family revenge, romantic entanglements, and society scandals, the central mystery sometimes gets lost in the shuffle, making the plot feel crowded and uneven. Still, even when the threads tangle, the ride remains enjoyable thanks to Harriet’s spirited narration and the inventive blend of Austenian manners with crime fiction. Readers who appreciate strong female leads and a fresh spin on classic literature will find this a rewarding, if occasionally chaotic, read.
Review of advance copy
I have read the UK version of this novel, purchased at Waterstones online in advance of publication date.
This is an absolute treat both for Jane Austen fans and for those who enjoy historical crime, even if unfamiliar with Austen. In this novel, Harriet Smith from 'Emma' is a con artiste/ private investigator employed to prevent a marriage, but ends up solving a murder and attempted murder. There are twists and turns all through, as the reader along with Miss Smith suspects first one character and then another. The reader meets many familiar characters from 'Emma' and sees them all in a new light.
The conventions of early 18th century etiquette are closely observed, even though Miss Smith attempts to thwart them at every opportunity. This is the story of what Harriet Smith was really thinking and feeling, but Jane Austen never told us, as we were all looking at Emma instead. It is very cleverly done, whilst remaining a fast-paced, rattling good yarn in itself.
This is an absolute treat both for Jane Austen fans and for those who enjoy historical crime, even if unfamiliar with Austen. In this novel, Harriet Smith from 'Emma' is a con artiste/ private investigator employed to prevent a marriage, but ends up solving a murder and attempted murder. There are twists and turns all through, as the reader along with Miss Smith suspects first one character and then another. The reader meets many familiar characters from 'Emma' and sees them all in a new light.
The conventions of early 18th century etiquette are closely observed, even though Miss Smith attempts to thwart them at every opportunity. This is the story of what Harriet Smith was really thinking and feeling, but Jane Austen never told us, as we were all looking at Emma instead. It is very cleverly done, whilst remaining a fast-paced, rattling good yarn in itself.
January 27, 2026
thank you to netgalley for the arc. i’d give this 4 and a half stars if i could ☕️
‘a very vexing murder’ is a creative and murderous twist on the beloved classic ‘emma’ by jane austen. it’s witty and funny, with enough twists to keep you hooked for entire time. being such a fan of the 2020 movie adaptation of ‘emma’ did help me keep to keep track of all the characters, seeing as i could just picture the cast clearly in mind, and there is a lot of characters which i suspect may get confusing to some at times. but it’s worth it, for this fun and unique cozy murder mystery that i highly recommend.
‘a very vexing murder’ is a creative and murderous twist on the beloved classic ‘emma’ by jane austen. it’s witty and funny, with enough twists to keep you hooked for entire time. being such a fan of the 2020 movie adaptation of ‘emma’ did help me keep to keep track of all the characters, seeing as i could just picture the cast clearly in mind, and there is a lot of characters which i suspect may get confusing to some at times. but it’s worth it, for this fun and unique cozy murder mystery that i highly recommend.
November 13, 2025
Lucy Andrew's love of Austen and mystery shines through on every page, making A Very Vexing Murder a fantastically entertaining read for crime fiction aficionados and Janeites alike. Enormous fun, I'll never look at Harriet Smith in the same way again!
Review of advance copy
Absolutely loved this witty and modern re-telling of classic favourite Emma. No one is who we thought they were!
Hoping for a sequel now!
Hoping for a sequel now!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews