What do you think?
Rate this book
See No Evil My Pretty Lady
This is now available as ebook, print, and audio at Audible and iTunes.
New maid Dorcy Edwards flees the scene of where her employer’s body is found. His murder sparks a chain of macabre events. Cloistered on a remote island with five strangers, including Gareth Davenport, her late employer’s brooding, but darkly handsome heir, Dorcy encounters baffling questions with what she fears may be terrifying answers. Who cut the telegraph lines? Who left a mutilated animal carcass outside her bedroom door? What is the reason for Gareth’s black gloves and eye patch? Can he be “Jack the Ripper”, the madman suspected to be Mr. Davenport’s killer? Dorcy must solve the mystery, and soon, or her growing attraction for Gareth could be her very death sentence.
New maid Dorcy Edwards flees the scene of where her employer’s body is found. His murder sparks a chain of macabre events. Cloistered on a remote island with five strangers, including Gareth Davenport, her late employer’s brooding, but darkly handsome heir, Dorcy encounters baffling questions with what she fears may be terrifying answers. Who cut the telegraph lines? Who left a mutilated animal carcass outside her bedroom door? What is the reason for Gareth’s black gloves and eye patch? Can he be “Jack the Ripper”, the madman suspected to be Mr. Davenport’s killer? Dorcy must solve the mystery, and soon, or her growing attraction for Gareth could be her very death sentence.
164 pages, ebook
First published April 26, 2010
18 people want to read
About the author
Miss Mae
36 books51 followersAll of Miss Mae’s romantic mysteries, “Said the Spider to the Fly”, “When the Bough Breaks”, “Dove Island”, “It’s Extraordinary, My Dear Winifred” and “See No Evil, My Pretty Lady” are award winning best sellers. Her latest, “Catch Me If You Can” has already received top rated five-star reviews. Tantalizing trailers, and more information, is readily available at her website: http://www.themissmaesite.com
Miss Mae also enjoys writing humor and non-fiction articles. Some of her publications can be found in The Front Porch Magazine, Good Old Days, and WritersWeekly.
Autographed print books can be purchased via PM here at GR.
Miss Mae also enjoys writing humor and non-fiction articles. Some of her publications can be found in The Front Porch Magazine, Good Old Days, and WritersWeekly.
Autographed print books can be purchased via PM here at GR.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 14, 2015
An absorbing and entertaining murder mystery set in Victorian London at the time of the Whitechapel murders. The writer's twist on an old story is both well written and clever. The story is full of interesting characters with a good few red herrings and likely suspects to keep you guessing right to the end. Dorcy and Gareth were two very likeable characters and I enjoyed the nod to the gothic romance genre in the way their relationship unfolded.
The story starts off with Dorcy's discovery of Mr. Davenport's dead body and her subsequent attack by an unknown assailant. It is not long before we are introduced to the other main characters. To fulfil a request from the dead man's will all the suspects and the police inspector take up temporary residence on an isolated island, in the hopes of discovering the identity of the murderer, who is also believed to be Jack the Ripper. Soon there is a series of sinister events, tricks and attacks. Tensions are rife and it isn't long before suspicions and accusations abound.
The police inspector is another interesting character and I'm hoping that Miss Mae has plans to write more mysteries for him to solve, along with help, of course, from Gareth and Dorcy.
The narrator Marcus Hyde did a wonderful job of bringing all the characters to life and his telling of the story added to the wonderfully gothic atmosphere of the novel. I loved it.
The story starts off with Dorcy's discovery of Mr. Davenport's dead body and her subsequent attack by an unknown assailant. It is not long before we are introduced to the other main characters. To fulfil a request from the dead man's will all the suspects and the police inspector take up temporary residence on an isolated island, in the hopes of discovering the identity of the murderer, who is also believed to be Jack the Ripper. Soon there is a series of sinister events, tricks and attacks. Tensions are rife and it isn't long before suspicions and accusations abound.
The police inspector is another interesting character and I'm hoping that Miss Mae has plans to write more mysteries for him to solve, along with help, of course, from Gareth and Dorcy.
The narrator Marcus Hyde did a wonderful job of bringing all the characters to life and his telling of the story added to the wonderfully gothic atmosphere of the novel. I loved it.
March 25, 2008
Dorcy, a pretty young woman is plunged into a nightmare of mystery, suspicion and murder. The story gripped me from the first sentence, when Dorcy flees into the fogbound streets of Victorian London. The adventure has only just begun. From London we are transported to an isolated house where everyone is under suspicion of the murder of her employer, including his son, the mysterious, but strangely attractive Gareth Davenport.
The twists and turns of this plot, cleverly entwined with the historical legend of 'Jack the Ripper' had me guessing right to the end.
Dorcy is a courageous and sensitive character and deserves the happiness she eventually finds, although this does not come easily. If you are looking for an intriguing historical murder/mystery, with a strong and satisfying thread of romance, I heartily recommend 'See No Evil My Pretty Lady' by Miss Mae.
The twists and turns of this plot, cleverly entwined with the historical legend of 'Jack the Ripper' had me guessing right to the end.
Dorcy is a courageous and sensitive character and deserves the happiness she eventually finds, although this does not come easily. If you are looking for an intriguing historical murder/mystery, with a strong and satisfying thread of romance, I heartily recommend 'See No Evil My Pretty Lady' by Miss Mae.
January 14, 2015
Depicting a Victorian setting in Old England was the perfect backdrop for Miss Mae’s Murder Mystery Romance of “See No Evil, My Pretty Lady”. Set in the early 20th century around the time of Jack the Ripper murders. Even though reference is made about him the story only generalizes on the possibility he is the culprit. I was not sure how a romance would enter this story line. Only recently listening to another authors work and it worked into her story. Miss Mae made it work for her as well. The story had me from the start right to the end in a single listen to! No breaks! Kept me right into the story like I was watching a movie.
Plot: Starting with the basic plot of the story as it opens up in that foggy night scene we are all too familiar with these types of English mysteries. The first main character that the story surrounds is Dorcy Edwards, kitchen maid. A reluctantly shy girl that comes running through the streets from her new employer Mr. Davenport, to whom she has found dead. While running to get away, someone reaches out and tries to strangle her. Maybe the murderer to silence what she has just discovered? Or could it be Jack the Ripper? Scratching her way from his grip she ends up at her patron’s home that help her acquire the job as kitchen maid for Mr. Davenport. When one of them was coming home finding her on the doorstep. Bringing her in from the fog. What good timing for Dorcy. Or is it? As she is wrapped and seated by the fire comes a knock at the door. Entering the second main character, Gareth Davenport, heir to the estate of the recently murdered man. Was he the murderer or was he just here visiting old friends as he so leads to make all believe? Dorcy does not let her guard down while telling her account of her events. Why did he have a patch over his eye and wearing gloves? Is he the one she scratched to get away? You will find this out as you listen/read. Have to keep some of the suspense going!
Moving into the next scene. As the case proceeds into the death of Mr. Davenport. Inspector Sosby from Scotland Yard enters the home and starts his interrogation. With the Who? What? Where? And Whys? The next day the solicitor comes to collect Dorcy to have her attend the reading of the will. Why? She was only in Mr. Davenports service for 3 days. Upon arrival with her patrons she among 5 others. As the will is read they are told that they will be spending a weekend to learn which among them is the murderer and very possibly maybe behind the Jack the Ripper murders. Along with them is included Gareth Davenport and the Inspector where they all would be going to a private island owned by the Davenport family. To discover out who murdered Mr. Davenport.
This is where you will find out as many twist and turns in the events played out keep you guessing until the end. What secrets lie within the walls of this house? Why was Mr. Davenport’s brother on the island and suddenly shows up after all the years he did not come around? So what about this being a murder romance.
Well from the moment Gareth laid his eyes on Dorcy he was smitten. Dorcy shy’s from him. Still believing that he is the murder. Through moments of saving her throughout the story she keeps her guard up finding herself thinking about him in other ways. Where will this all lead to between them? That you will have to find out for I will not give up the good parts of them, just them alone.
Now my thoughts on these parts. I did enjoy it but when you get to the end of the book I felt that more could have been played into their relationship. Maybe longer story to showing the outwardly affection. Maybe Dorcy showing the affection back at one point to Gareth before the abrupt ending. Who was the murderer and the relationship with Dorcy and Gareth? I don’t want to give away the ending.
Author: Miss Mae certainly has done her research to the time period and has made this an enjoyable listen/read. I look forward to her next book. She will be around a long time with stories like these. I really enjoy mysteries with a twist.
Now moving onto the narrator, Marcus Hyde. He did play out each character with each having a voice to match their personalities. Now this book was provided by the author for me to review and she was concerned about the female voices in the book. I feel Marcus did as well as any male narrator does with the female voices. So I was not disappointed in the least. However, I think I would have chosen a bit different voice for Gareth. Reminded me of Boris Karloff in a way and it stuck in my head. Though he did make his voice seem sexy. The inspector was dead on. The transition from one character to another was well played. You can tell the one guest sound of heavy weight. The women were well played. Not every woman has a high pitch or mousy voice, they are deeper tone as it seems to be for a lot of European women in movies. He made me better visualize Dorcy from the cover art.
Art Cover: I did like the artwork. However, was not keen on the font chosen. Thought to heavy over the artwork. Not sure what I would have chosen but, this was not a favorite. Maybe in a thinner look.
Thanks all for reading!
Note: This book was provided by the author Miss Mae. She and no one else had any influence on my review that I have provided. All thoughts and ratings are my own and any comments about my review are always welcome.
Plot: Starting with the basic plot of the story as it opens up in that foggy night scene we are all too familiar with these types of English mysteries. The first main character that the story surrounds is Dorcy Edwards, kitchen maid. A reluctantly shy girl that comes running through the streets from her new employer Mr. Davenport, to whom she has found dead. While running to get away, someone reaches out and tries to strangle her. Maybe the murderer to silence what she has just discovered? Or could it be Jack the Ripper? Scratching her way from his grip she ends up at her patron’s home that help her acquire the job as kitchen maid for Mr. Davenport. When one of them was coming home finding her on the doorstep. Bringing her in from the fog. What good timing for Dorcy. Or is it? As she is wrapped and seated by the fire comes a knock at the door. Entering the second main character, Gareth Davenport, heir to the estate of the recently murdered man. Was he the murderer or was he just here visiting old friends as he so leads to make all believe? Dorcy does not let her guard down while telling her account of her events. Why did he have a patch over his eye and wearing gloves? Is he the one she scratched to get away? You will find this out as you listen/read. Have to keep some of the suspense going!
Moving into the next scene. As the case proceeds into the death of Mr. Davenport. Inspector Sosby from Scotland Yard enters the home and starts his interrogation. With the Who? What? Where? And Whys? The next day the solicitor comes to collect Dorcy to have her attend the reading of the will. Why? She was only in Mr. Davenports service for 3 days. Upon arrival with her patrons she among 5 others. As the will is read they are told that they will be spending a weekend to learn which among them is the murderer and very possibly maybe behind the Jack the Ripper murders. Along with them is included Gareth Davenport and the Inspector where they all would be going to a private island owned by the Davenport family. To discover out who murdered Mr. Davenport.
This is where you will find out as many twist and turns in the events played out keep you guessing until the end. What secrets lie within the walls of this house? Why was Mr. Davenport’s brother on the island and suddenly shows up after all the years he did not come around? So what about this being a murder romance.
Well from the moment Gareth laid his eyes on Dorcy he was smitten. Dorcy shy’s from him. Still believing that he is the murder. Through moments of saving her throughout the story she keeps her guard up finding herself thinking about him in other ways. Where will this all lead to between them? That you will have to find out for I will not give up the good parts of them, just them alone.
Now my thoughts on these parts. I did enjoy it but when you get to the end of the book I felt that more could have been played into their relationship. Maybe longer story to showing the outwardly affection. Maybe Dorcy showing the affection back at one point to Gareth before the abrupt ending. Who was the murderer and the relationship with Dorcy and Gareth? I don’t want to give away the ending.
Author: Miss Mae certainly has done her research to the time period and has made this an enjoyable listen/read. I look forward to her next book. She will be around a long time with stories like these. I really enjoy mysteries with a twist.
Now moving onto the narrator, Marcus Hyde. He did play out each character with each having a voice to match their personalities. Now this book was provided by the author for me to review and she was concerned about the female voices in the book. I feel Marcus did as well as any male narrator does with the female voices. So I was not disappointed in the least. However, I think I would have chosen a bit different voice for Gareth. Reminded me of Boris Karloff in a way and it stuck in my head. Though he did make his voice seem sexy. The inspector was dead on. The transition from one character to another was well played. You can tell the one guest sound of heavy weight. The women were well played. Not every woman has a high pitch or mousy voice, they are deeper tone as it seems to be for a lot of European women in movies. He made me better visualize Dorcy from the cover art.
Art Cover: I did like the artwork. However, was not keen on the font chosen. Thought to heavy over the artwork. Not sure what I would have chosen but, this was not a favorite. Maybe in a thinner look.
Thanks all for reading!
Note: This book was provided by the author Miss Mae. She and no one else had any influence on my review that I have provided. All thoughts and ratings are my own and any comments about my review are always welcome.
January 18, 2018
This was an awesome murder mystery of a who dun it during the Victorian era. I couldn't stop listening (audiobook) and had to know what happens, who and why. It kept me guessing and wondering and in the end I'm very surprised! I really enjoyed the sluething involved for that era, the evidence, and the deductions especially having no modern technology to work with. Love the writing and the story line.
May 20, 2015
This is for the AUDIOBOOK ...............
I'm going to take this review in sections since it's an audiobook. The first part will be the actual story itself and the second will be the audiobook.
See No Evil, My Pretty Lady is set in London, England during the late 1800's, which is at the same time that Jack the Ripper was roaming the streets of London. Usually books build up to the mystery and drama, which can sometimes be frustrating. I am impatient when reading because I want to jump right to the mysterious part of the book. I believe what draws me to Miss Mae's work is her ability to open the book at the height of mystery and it works, every single time. I don't want to give away any of the plot line or the characters, but Dorcy finds herself in the middle of a predicament in the first chapter. The reader is left questioning who is the mystery person and what will happen next?
The characters throughout this book are very well developed. Although this audiobook might be a little on the shorter side, I am amazed at all that was covered from the beginning of the book to the very last page. I loved Dorcy, but I believe my favorite character was Gareth. His character was difficult to figure out. Is he the good guy? Maybe the bad guy? Of course you find out soon enough but in the beginning I couldn't see him being a main character that stood out, but then, before you know it, you're rooting for Gareth. He seemed rather dark and intense at first. When you find out how he really is, you realize that he couldn't have possibly been any other way. The dark and brooding works for Gareth.
At one point during the book, they are all sent to an island to stay the night. It had a very "Clue" sort of feel to it which I could relate to since I love Clue. I could play that game all day. As in Clue, See No Evil, My Pretty Lady has an ending you don't see coming. Just when you think you have it figured out, think again! There were so many things throughout the book that had me falling in love with it. The character development was outstanding. The trials and tribulations had me chuckling at some and saying "oh no" at others.
Now on to the audiobook portion of it. The narrator had a distinctive voice that worked well as he changed the tone of his voice to speak as other characters. Not one voice sounded like the others which led to a first-rate performance throughout the entire book. See No Evil, My Pretty Lady was a book that I could both lose myself in as well as lose track of time. I enjoy a book that can do that. I felt invested in this book and look forward to the next audiobook that will be released by Miss Mae. Speaking of, I will be doing a blog post when her next book is about to be released.
I love the range of writing Miss Mae possesses. Every book is a different kind of mystery or romance or even a book that is geared toward kids of all ages. Each story is also descriptive and vivid. I feel as though I am actually a part of the story which is what I love at the end of a hard day. I wanted to escape and thanks to Miss Mae, I've now visited London. Whatever book I choose to read, it will be an outstanding and fun read. If you're on the fence about buying this book or not, I would highly suggest that you do purchase it. You won't be sorry. You will find a new to you author that knows her craft and knows it well.
I'm going to take this review in sections since it's an audiobook. The first part will be the actual story itself and the second will be the audiobook.
See No Evil, My Pretty Lady is set in London, England during the late 1800's, which is at the same time that Jack the Ripper was roaming the streets of London. Usually books build up to the mystery and drama, which can sometimes be frustrating. I am impatient when reading because I want to jump right to the mysterious part of the book. I believe what draws me to Miss Mae's work is her ability to open the book at the height of mystery and it works, every single time. I don't want to give away any of the plot line or the characters, but Dorcy finds herself in the middle of a predicament in the first chapter. The reader is left questioning who is the mystery person and what will happen next?
The characters throughout this book are very well developed. Although this audiobook might be a little on the shorter side, I am amazed at all that was covered from the beginning of the book to the very last page. I loved Dorcy, but I believe my favorite character was Gareth. His character was difficult to figure out. Is he the good guy? Maybe the bad guy? Of course you find out soon enough but in the beginning I couldn't see him being a main character that stood out, but then, before you know it, you're rooting for Gareth. He seemed rather dark and intense at first. When you find out how he really is, you realize that he couldn't have possibly been any other way. The dark and brooding works for Gareth.
At one point during the book, they are all sent to an island to stay the night. It had a very "Clue" sort of feel to it which I could relate to since I love Clue. I could play that game all day. As in Clue, See No Evil, My Pretty Lady has an ending you don't see coming. Just when you think you have it figured out, think again! There were so many things throughout the book that had me falling in love with it. The character development was outstanding. The trials and tribulations had me chuckling at some and saying "oh no" at others.
Now on to the audiobook portion of it. The narrator had a distinctive voice that worked well as he changed the tone of his voice to speak as other characters. Not one voice sounded like the others which led to a first-rate performance throughout the entire book. See No Evil, My Pretty Lady was a book that I could both lose myself in as well as lose track of time. I enjoy a book that can do that. I felt invested in this book and look forward to the next audiobook that will be released by Miss Mae. Speaking of, I will be doing a blog post when her next book is about to be released.
I love the range of writing Miss Mae possesses. Every book is a different kind of mystery or romance or even a book that is geared toward kids of all ages. Each story is also descriptive and vivid. I feel as though I am actually a part of the story which is what I love at the end of a hard day. I wanted to escape and thanks to Miss Mae, I've now visited London. Whatever book I choose to read, it will be an outstanding and fun read. If you're on the fence about buying this book or not, I would highly suggest that you do purchase it. You won't be sorry. You will find a new to you author that knows her craft and knows it well.
February 1, 2015
I am a fan of Miss Mae's work after listening to Ahoy Gum Drop on audio book. When I found out that she had a who-dun-it also on audio, I was intrigued and downloaded a copy. I am glad I did, because I LOVED it!
The story is narrated by Marcus Hyde. He did an impressive job in bringing this story and characters to life. His speaking voice was clear and concise and his interpretation of the characters mannerisms and affectations came across strongly. His villain's voice sent shiver's down my spine! I don't think I would like to meet that character in a dark alley!
Dorcy Edwards is a wonderful character. I liked her very much She is a young lady who has only recently been employed as a kitchen maid to Mr. Davenport. After finding him murdered, she flees the house and finds herself thrown into a maelstrom of mystery, suspense and danger. Oh, and a hint of romance!
This is a relatively short story, lasting only four hours and thirty-four minutes, but there is a lot happening in that time! It is packed with suspense, mystery and danger, with the glimmer of a chance at romance for the main character. This story is set in London, during the time of Jack The Ripper in 1888. The story is told from the point of view of Dorcy Edwards. There are several interesting characters in this intriguing tale. Mr. & Mrs. Butterfield, the couple who sponsored Dorcy when she first arrived in London. Mr. Garath Davenport - the son of the murdered man - who makes Dorcy's heart flutter, but he has secrets of his own. Can she trust him? And Alice, another maid from Mr. Davenport's house.
This is an excellent who-dun-it. The plot is wonderfully described in such detail. I could picture the scenes with clarity. I loved the way the story unfolded. The story is full of twists and turns, with red herrings aplenty. Suspicion and fear makes Dorcy unsure who to trust, which makes the reader feel the same way. I had no clue as who attacked Dorcy for quite a while, but I took an educated guess before the culprit was finally identified. I am glad that my deductive reasoning proved correct; I would have been completely shocked if I had guessed wrongly. But, the author certainly knows how to keep the suspense and mystery going! I reached the end of the book and felt sad that it wasn't just a little bit longer. However, it only made me want to read more of this author's books in future.
Miss Mae has written a wonderful mystery. I love her writing style, which is fast paced and exciting, and the flow is wonderful. I am a huge fan of mystery novels, and one of my favourite authors in this genre is Agatha Christie. However, Miss Mae is an author that I will be keeping an eye on in the future.
I highly recommend this book to young readers who love mystery and suspense, and to adults who love a classic who-dun-it and are looking for a quick, but highly entertaining read. - Lynn Worton
The story is narrated by Marcus Hyde. He did an impressive job in bringing this story and characters to life. His speaking voice was clear and concise and his interpretation of the characters mannerisms and affectations came across strongly. His villain's voice sent shiver's down my spine! I don't think I would like to meet that character in a dark alley!
Dorcy Edwards is a wonderful character. I liked her very much She is a young lady who has only recently been employed as a kitchen maid to Mr. Davenport. After finding him murdered, she flees the house and finds herself thrown into a maelstrom of mystery, suspense and danger. Oh, and a hint of romance!
This is a relatively short story, lasting only four hours and thirty-four minutes, but there is a lot happening in that time! It is packed with suspense, mystery and danger, with the glimmer of a chance at romance for the main character. This story is set in London, during the time of Jack The Ripper in 1888. The story is told from the point of view of Dorcy Edwards. There are several interesting characters in this intriguing tale. Mr. & Mrs. Butterfield, the couple who sponsored Dorcy when she first arrived in London. Mr. Garath Davenport - the son of the murdered man - who makes Dorcy's heart flutter, but he has secrets of his own. Can she trust him? And Alice, another maid from Mr. Davenport's house.
This is an excellent who-dun-it. The plot is wonderfully described in such detail. I could picture the scenes with clarity. I loved the way the story unfolded. The story is full of twists and turns, with red herrings aplenty. Suspicion and fear makes Dorcy unsure who to trust, which makes the reader feel the same way. I had no clue as who attacked Dorcy for quite a while, but I took an educated guess before the culprit was finally identified. I am glad that my deductive reasoning proved correct; I would have been completely shocked if I had guessed wrongly. But, the author certainly knows how to keep the suspense and mystery going! I reached the end of the book and felt sad that it wasn't just a little bit longer. However, it only made me want to read more of this author's books in future.
Miss Mae has written a wonderful mystery. I love her writing style, which is fast paced and exciting, and the flow is wonderful. I am a huge fan of mystery novels, and one of my favourite authors in this genre is Agatha Christie. However, Miss Mae is an author that I will be keeping an eye on in the future.
I highly recommend this book to young readers who love mystery and suspense, and to adults who love a classic who-dun-it and are looking for a quick, but highly entertaining read. - Lynn Worton
May 27, 2015
See No Evil My Pretty Lady written by Miss Mae is a story of intrigue and mystery akin to an old Agatha Christie novel set in Victorian London. The story centers around Dorcy, a sophisticated lady who finds herself as a new maid in the household of a pompous womanizer. The story begins with Dorcy fleeing her employer's home after his murder, whereupon she is attacked by "Jack the Ripper." Luckily she escapes to the home of a family friend where she soon meets her employer's son Gareth, whom she believes is her attacker because of an eye patch and bandaged hand.
Soon we find out Gareth's father predicted his murder and named six individuals in his will as suspects and requested that they spend a fortnight on a family estate on a remote island. Similar to all Agatha Christie novels, there are plenty of suspects, including the police officer staying with them on the island, with more than one person caught in a lie.
I listened to the Audible version of this book narrated by Marcus Hyde who did a fantastic job. He had different voices for each character, both male and female, including a way of portraying Gareth such that he sounded tall, brooding, and handsome. Great job! I received a copy of this audio in exchange for an honest review.
Soon we find out Gareth's father predicted his murder and named six individuals in his will as suspects and requested that they spend a fortnight on a family estate on a remote island. Similar to all Agatha Christie novels, there are plenty of suspects, including the police officer staying with them on the island, with more than one person caught in a lie.
I listened to the Audible version of this book narrated by Marcus Hyde who did a fantastic job. He had different voices for each character, both male and female, including a way of portraying Gareth such that he sounded tall, brooding, and handsome. Great job! I received a copy of this audio in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2010
All the good things I've heard about Miss Mae's writing and her ability to create a suspenseful mystery were proven true by this book. Dorcy caught my attention and had my sympathy right from the beginning of the story. As Gareth showed a gradual softening toward her, I kept hoping Dorcy would look past her fear to find her hero. Every time it looked like she would, something happened to reinforce her fears.
The mystery is just as well-crafted. For much of the story, I couldn't figure out who might have killed Mr. Davenport. Then, just when I thought I had it all figured out, the story took another twist and I was left wondering again. When the identity of the murderer was finally revealed, I was just as stunned as Dorcy.
Miss Mae has written an amazing story in See No Evil, My Pretty Lady. An interesting cast of characters and vivid descriptions bring this story to life, and the many twists and turns keep the reader guessing until the very end and wondering if there will be a happily-ever-after for Dorcy and Gareth. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a good romantic whodunit.
The mystery is just as well-crafted. For much of the story, I couldn't figure out who might have killed Mr. Davenport. Then, just when I thought I had it all figured out, the story took another twist and I was left wondering again. When the identity of the murderer was finally revealed, I was just as stunned as Dorcy.
Miss Mae has written an amazing story in See No Evil, My Pretty Lady. An interesting cast of characters and vivid descriptions bring this story to life, and the many twists and turns keep the reader guessing until the very end and wondering if there will be a happily-ever-after for Dorcy and Gareth. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a good romantic whodunit.
June 24, 2010
This is a review of the paperback edition of "See No Evil, My Pretty Lady". Yes, there is a paperback edition, even though as of the time of this review, Goodreads is only showing it as an e-book.
I was so excited when I learned that "See No Evil, My Pretty Lady" was finally available in paperback! I don't have an e-reader and don't really have a craving for one. I prefer the feel of an old-fashioned book in my hands when I read "for fun". So the moment I heard that "See No Evil, My Pretty Lady" by Miss Mae was available in hard copy, I snapped one up! The book did not disappoint. Miss Mae grabbed my attention from the very first sentence, and held it right through to the end. Miss Mae's writing is filled with visual and sensory images that makes the reader feel as if they are living and breathing along with the heroine as she confronts the dangers that surround her in this wonderful Victorian mystery. This is a book to lose oneself in, and I happily surrendered myself to living Dorcy's story. Alas, I can't tell you how it ends. But I can tell you that I was surprised. And in a mystery, that's a good thing!
I was so excited when I learned that "See No Evil, My Pretty Lady" was finally available in paperback! I don't have an e-reader and don't really have a craving for one. I prefer the feel of an old-fashioned book in my hands when I read "for fun". So the moment I heard that "See No Evil, My Pretty Lady" by Miss Mae was available in hard copy, I snapped one up! The book did not disappoint. Miss Mae grabbed my attention from the very first sentence, and held it right through to the end. Miss Mae's writing is filled with visual and sensory images that makes the reader feel as if they are living and breathing along with the heroine as she confronts the dangers that surround her in this wonderful Victorian mystery. This is a book to lose oneself in, and I happily surrendered myself to living Dorcy's story. Alas, I can't tell you how it ends. But I can tell you that I was surprised. And in a mystery, that's a good thing!
June 14, 2015
This is a very short but entertaining listen. It doesn’t feel as if the length of it affected it in any negative way. Everything is here…mystery, murder, romance, family issues, skeletons in the closet.
It is a blend of romance and mystery. Neither overshadows the other. You just aren’t sure about Gareth. While Dorcy wears her personality on her sleeve from the very first pages, Gareth comes across as the mysterious stranger, mainly because, that’s who he is at the beginning. Part of the mystery is unraveling all that is Gareth.
Solid characterization, smooth narration, and a spooky house on a tiny island make for a pleasant afternoon. The storyline didn’t blow me away. This is more of a cozy mystery than I usually go for. But I’m glad I didn’t pass this up. I enjoyed getting stuck on the island with the snobby family characters and the soft spoken lower class characters. (Even though, from the reading of the will, you totally know it’s going to happen.)
It is a blend of romance and mystery. Neither overshadows the other. You just aren’t sure about Gareth. While Dorcy wears her personality on her sleeve from the very first pages, Gareth comes across as the mysterious stranger, mainly because, that’s who he is at the beginning. Part of the mystery is unraveling all that is Gareth.
Solid characterization, smooth narration, and a spooky house on a tiny island make for a pleasant afternoon. The storyline didn’t blow me away. This is more of a cozy mystery than I usually go for. But I’m glad I didn’t pass this up. I enjoyed getting stuck on the island with the snobby family characters and the soft spoken lower class characters. (Even though, from the reading of the will, you totally know it’s going to happen.)
May 23, 2016
I don't usually read Victorian mysteries, however, I was intrigued by the description of this one. The story takes place in 1888 and it reminds me of the game Clue.
When kitchen maid Dorcy discovers the body of her employer, she runs into the night only to be attacked. She is able to run from her attacker and what happens next is quite intense. As family, friends and staff are brought together, only being told that one of them is the murderer, they all suspect each other and it appears that no one is safe.
I was quite surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. The story was well told and I could picture the characters in my mind. I was left guessing until the end and even then I was stunned when I found out who the murderer was.
If you enjoy this style of cozy mystery then I suggest reading this book. It is filled with secrets and of course, romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
When kitchen maid Dorcy discovers the body of her employer, she runs into the night only to be attacked. She is able to run from her attacker and what happens next is quite intense. As family, friends and staff are brought together, only being told that one of them is the murderer, they all suspect each other and it appears that no one is safe.
I was quite surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. The story was well told and I could picture the characters in my mind. I was left guessing until the end and even then I was stunned when I found out who the murderer was.
If you enjoy this style of cozy mystery then I suggest reading this book. It is filled with secrets and of course, romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
April 30, 2018
An enjoyable Gothic romance set in the time of Jack the Ripper. Dorsey Edwards finds her employer murdered, then narrowly escapes being killed herself. She runs to her friends' house and meets the son of her employer, Gareth Davenport.
Carlisle Davenport, the deceased, is an amateur detective and his will directs several suspects to his island retreat in order to reveal the murderer that is killing young women in Whitechapel.
Dorsey does not understand why she is included in this summons, but soon fears that Gareth might be the murderer, in spite of her growing feelings for him.
Part "Clue", part Jack the Ripper, all Gothic.....I enjoyed this book a lot. The narrator did a good job with various voices for the different characters. I did find that the recording was a little noisy and the noise was distracting at times.
If you enjoy a good Gothic mystery, you will enjoy this book. Of course, there are lots of misunderstandings between the characters as they each suspect the other. And, romance? Naturally!
I was given the chance to listen to this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
Carlisle Davenport, the deceased, is an amateur detective and his will directs several suspects to his island retreat in order to reveal the murderer that is killing young women in Whitechapel.
Dorsey does not understand why she is included in this summons, but soon fears that Gareth might be the murderer, in spite of her growing feelings for him.
Part "Clue", part Jack the Ripper, all Gothic.....I enjoyed this book a lot. The narrator did a good job with various voices for the different characters. I did find that the recording was a little noisy and the noise was distracting at times.
If you enjoy a good Gothic mystery, you will enjoy this book. Of course, there are lots of misunderstandings between the characters as they each suspect the other. And, romance? Naturally!
I was given the chance to listen to this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
March 4, 2020
The story centers around Dorcy, a sophisticated lady who finds herself as a new maid in the household of a pompous womanizer. The story begins with Dorcy fleeing her employer's home after his murder, whereupon she is attacked by "Jack the Ripper." Luckily she escapes to the home of a family friend where she soon meets her employer's son Gareth, whom she believes is her attacker because of an eye patch and bandaged hand.
You find out Gareth's father predicted his murder and named six individuals in his will as suspects and requested that they spend a fortnight on a family estate on a remote island. This is similar to all Agatha Christie novels, there are plenty of suspects, including the police officer staying with them on the island, with more than one person caught in a lie.
See No Evil, My Pretty Lady is set in London, England during the late 1800's, which is at the same time that Jack the Ripper was roaming the streets of London.
This was a very good book. I will be reading more from this author.
You find out Gareth's father predicted his murder and named six individuals in his will as suspects and requested that they spend a fortnight on a family estate on a remote island. This is similar to all Agatha Christie novels, there are plenty of suspects, including the police officer staying with them on the island, with more than one person caught in a lie.
See No Evil, My Pretty Lady is set in London, England during the late 1800's, which is at the same time that Jack the Ripper was roaming the streets of London.
This was a very good book. I will be reading more from this author.
July 25, 2010
…felt like, "See no answers, my gullible reader!" Miss Mae packs a wonderful mystery punch reminiscent of Agatha Christie's classic writing style with her desolate island full of would be killers. Join the skittish but thoughtful Dorcy as she tries to stay alive and fight strange feelings of attraction for Gareth, a likely Jack the Ripper suspect. Miss Mae takes you from the foggy streets of London to the drawing rooms of the upper class as a dead man's will gathers his enemies for an after-death hunt of the White Chapel murderer. Having read several of Miss Mae's novels, I find her historical voice and her ability write a unique who-dun-it as appealing and as captivating as ever. A very entertaining read that will fool you completely!
August 3, 2019
Meh. It wasn't great but wasn't too bad either. I admit, I was surprised by the villain.
Story/Narration: 3
Story/Narration: 3
December 6, 2023
This is an okay book. Not great but not too bad either. It is short so it starts off fast and doesn’t really let up until the end. This book tried to be a weird version of Agatha Christie meets Jack the Ripper.
There won’t be much to this review as it is just an easy read/listen and there isn’t anything terrible but there also isn’t anything great about it either. The villain was easily guessed, but the author did a good job of hiding it. The best part of the book was the interaction between Gareth and Sothesby, the detective. I liked how they were both very intelligent and observant and their mental sparring with each other was the highlight of the book.
The downsides are two main things. The first thing is how Dorcy was the main character. Her timidity and naivete just made her almost non-existent. I get for the time-period this seemed like it fit but with the personalities of the other female characters being so big her little self just got lost in the book. Which leads me to the second thing, the romance between Dorcy and Gareth seemed so out of place it took away from the story. I just don’t see how he was attracted, nor do I see how they could have managed it with Dorcy running from everything.
There won’t be much to this review as it is just an easy read/listen and there isn’t anything terrible but there also isn’t anything great about it either. The villain was easily guessed, but the author did a good job of hiding it. The best part of the book was the interaction between Gareth and Sothesby, the detective. I liked how they were both very intelligent and observant and their mental sparring with each other was the highlight of the book.
The downsides are two main things. The first thing is how Dorcy was the main character. Her timidity and naivete just made her almost non-existent. I get for the time-period this seemed like it fit but with the personalities of the other female characters being so big her little self just got lost in the book. Which leads me to the second thing, the romance between Dorcy and Gareth seemed so out of place it took away from the story. I just don’t see how he was attracted, nor do I see how they could have managed it with Dorcy running from everything.
November 2, 2018
I really liked the narrator right off the bat. The story is creepy without delving into horror. I think it would make a great Halloween listen. It has the feel of the ghost stories told around the campfire (but there are no ghost or anything paranormal). Read my full review at Girl Who Reads
May 9, 2016
Who Killed Mr. Davenport? Not Me! (Audiobook)
I was dragged full body and mind into this tale by Miss Mae. Wow! It is full of suspense, some action, intriguing characters, a little budding romance, and lots of fog. This story has so many twists and turns that at one point I think I cast every character as the villain. It definitely kept me guessing until the end.
Miss Mae, so far I have listened to three samples of your writing, a children's book with enough sub-humor to keep the adult entertained, a space bound science fiction, and now a mystery. Wow again! All of these are more than worth the read.
Marcus Hyde does more than justice narrating this story. I could feel the emotions of each character and felt like I was right there with them.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
I was dragged full body and mind into this tale by Miss Mae. Wow! It is full of suspense, some action, intriguing characters, a little budding romance, and lots of fog. This story has so many twists and turns that at one point I think I cast every character as the villain. It definitely kept me guessing until the end.
Miss Mae, so far I have listened to three samples of your writing, a children's book with enough sub-humor to keep the adult entertained, a space bound science fiction, and now a mystery. Wow again! All of these are more than worth the read.
Marcus Hyde does more than justice narrating this story. I could feel the emotions of each character and felt like I was right there with them.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 5, 2015
I Listened to the Audible version of this.I thought it was a really good book.Dorsey is hired by an old man who is dead within a few days.Did she do it?Maybe it was his so,or brother?Give a listen and find out!
Narrated brilliantly by Marcus Hyde.
"I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast or MalarHouse dot com"
Narrated brilliantly by Marcus Hyde.
"I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast or MalarHouse dot com"
September 6, 2015
I Listened to the Audible version of this.I thought it was a really good book.Dorsey is hired by an old man who is dead within a few days.Did she do it?Maybe it was his so,or brother?Give a listen and find out!
Narrated brilliantly by Marcus Hyde.
"I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast or MalarHouse dot com"
Narrated brilliantly by Marcus Hyde.
"I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast or MalarHouse dot com"
April 21, 2016
I guess I'll start by saying this story wasn't for me. I wish I had known it was set in the 1800s, I could be wrong but it was a historical romance and I'm not into those. I've listened to quite a few that I've enjoyed but this was not one. I'll be honest, I didn't want to rate it at all. I wasn't because I would've given it 1 star but the author kept messaging me and I didn't want her to feel bad but this is my opinion. I'm only giving it 3 stars because of the narrator.
May 29, 2015
I hadn't realized prior to reading that this is a romance, masquerading as a mystery. I'm not a fan of the romance genre. However if you are, I think you will enjoy this. The story line and characters are a bit cliché, but still fun.
May 17, 2016
Miss Mae continues to proved a gripping tale with her great scene setting abilities, hooks and endings. Her characters are carved out with a deft hand and one finds oneself rooting for the heroine. I loved the surprising twist at the end...it made this story stand out in its class.
May 12, 2015
A winner!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews