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A Lady & Lady's Maid Mystery #3
A Devious Death
In the sobering yet hopeful years following the First World War, Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her lady’s maid, Eva Huntford, find their summer plans marred by an instance of murder . . .
Phoebe and her sister Julia are eager for a summer getaway at High Head Lodge, the newly purchased estate of their cousin Regina. But they are not the only houseguests. Regina's odd friend, Olive, is far from friendly, and Regina's mother and brother—bitter over the unequal distribution of her father's inheritance—have descended on the house to confront Regina.
In addition to the family tension, Eva is increasingly suspicious of Lady Julia's new maid. She questions Miss Stanley's loyalty and integrity, wondering why she left her former employer so suddenly. And why does Regina seem ill at ease around the maid, as if they were previously acquainted? Everyone, it appears, is on edge.
But things go from tense to tragic when their hostess meets an untimely end—mysteriously murdered in her bed with no signs of struggle. Now, with suspects in every room, Lady Phoebe and Eva must uncover secrets hidden behind closed doors—before a killer ensures they never leave High Head Lodge . . . alive.
Phoebe and her sister Julia are eager for a summer getaway at High Head Lodge, the newly purchased estate of their cousin Regina. But they are not the only houseguests. Regina's odd friend, Olive, is far from friendly, and Regina's mother and brother—bitter over the unequal distribution of her father's inheritance—have descended on the house to confront Regina.
In addition to the family tension, Eva is increasingly suspicious of Lady Julia's new maid. She questions Miss Stanley's loyalty and integrity, wondering why she left her former employer so suddenly. And why does Regina seem ill at ease around the maid, as if they were previously acquainted? Everyone, it appears, is on edge.
But things go from tense to tragic when their hostess meets an untimely end—mysteriously murdered in her bed with no signs of struggle. Now, with suspects in every room, Lady Phoebe and Eva must uncover secrets hidden behind closed doors—before a killer ensures they never leave High Head Lodge . . . alive.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2017
237 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Maxwell
32 books1,090 followersAlyssa Maxwell is the author of The Gilded Newport Mysteries, inspired by her husband’s family whose Newport origins date back numerous generations. The series features the glamour of the Gilded Age and a sleuth who is a Newporter born and raised, and also a less "well-heeled" cousin of the Vanderbilt family. Alyssa also writes A Lady & Lady’s Maid Mysteries, an English-set series that begins as WWI is ending. She and her husband live in South Florida, where she is a member of the Florida chapter of the Mystery Writers of America and the South Florida Fiction Writers. You can visit her at http://alyssamaxwell.com, and find her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
December 19, 2017
A Devious Death is the third book in the Lady And Lady’s Maid series.
I love to step back in time to before cell phone, computers, and the medical advancements we now have. The Lady and Lady’s Maid series is one my of very favorites for just that.
It’s August of 1919 and Lady Julia, her sister Lady Phoebe with their maids are on their way to visit Cousin Regina, who has recently inherited a large amount of money from her deceased father. Regina, who has purchased a manor house, wants Lady Julia to help her completely redecorate the interior. Also in residence, is Olive Asquith a friend of Regina’s. After conversing with Olive for a while, Lady Phoebe wonders whether her cousin embraces the socialistic sounding feelings of Olive.
As everyone is returning from a day of shopping, Regina’s family arrives in a major huff. It seems that with Regina inheriting all money, the only thing that went to her mother, brother, sister-in-law and the family lawyer was the family home and have come to convince Regina to part with family’s fair share of the money.
The next day a scream is heard and everyone exits their rooms to see Olive standing outside of Regina’s room. Inside the room is the lifeless body of Regina who just appears to be asleep. A brooch, belonging to Regina’s mother is found at the base of her skull.
Constable Miles Brannock is sent to investigate the death and asks Lady Phoebe and her Lady’s Maid Eva to be his eyes and ears as they are more likely to uncover some useful clues, as they have in the past for him. It’s going to be a tough investigation as the whole family certainly had it in for Regina. The lawyer, Ralph Cameron needs to come under scrutiny, too. To start the investigation, Phoebe tells Brannock that she had seen Olive coming out of Regina’s room in the middle of the night that she was killed. Also, that she was awakened by a loud argument between Regina’s brother and his wife. In addition, there is a Russian couple, who speak little English, claim to had been hired to clean at the house, but when Brannock says he is going to arrest, they take off running.
Once again, Ms. Maxwell provides the reader with a well-plotted and told story. The characters are all very interesting and believable. I do believe that Lady Julia character is more in line with how it was back in the period the book was set, but I also believe that interaction of Lady Phoebe and Eva also probably happened, just not the norm.
I can wait for the next exciting book in the series to see what adventures Lady Phoebe and Eva will be involved in. Also anxious to see if there might be a romantic interest for Eva developing.
I love to step back in time to before cell phone, computers, and the medical advancements we now have. The Lady and Lady’s Maid series is one my of very favorites for just that.
It’s August of 1919 and Lady Julia, her sister Lady Phoebe with their maids are on their way to visit Cousin Regina, who has recently inherited a large amount of money from her deceased father. Regina, who has purchased a manor house, wants Lady Julia to help her completely redecorate the interior. Also in residence, is Olive Asquith a friend of Regina’s. After conversing with Olive for a while, Lady Phoebe wonders whether her cousin embraces the socialistic sounding feelings of Olive.
As everyone is returning from a day of shopping, Regina’s family arrives in a major huff. It seems that with Regina inheriting all money, the only thing that went to her mother, brother, sister-in-law and the family lawyer was the family home and have come to convince Regina to part with family’s fair share of the money.
The next day a scream is heard and everyone exits their rooms to see Olive standing outside of Regina’s room. Inside the room is the lifeless body of Regina who just appears to be asleep. A brooch, belonging to Regina’s mother is found at the base of her skull.
Constable Miles Brannock is sent to investigate the death and asks Lady Phoebe and her Lady’s Maid Eva to be his eyes and ears as they are more likely to uncover some useful clues, as they have in the past for him. It’s going to be a tough investigation as the whole family certainly had it in for Regina. The lawyer, Ralph Cameron needs to come under scrutiny, too. To start the investigation, Phoebe tells Brannock that she had seen Olive coming out of Regina’s room in the middle of the night that she was killed. Also, that she was awakened by a loud argument between Regina’s brother and his wife. In addition, there is a Russian couple, who speak little English, claim to had been hired to clean at the house, but when Brannock says he is going to arrest, they take off running.
Once again, Ms. Maxwell provides the reader with a well-plotted and told story. The characters are all very interesting and believable. I do believe that Lady Julia character is more in line with how it was back in the period the book was set, but I also believe that interaction of Lady Phoebe and Eva also probably happened, just not the norm.
I can wait for the next exciting book in the series to see what adventures Lady Phoebe and Eva will be involved in. Also anxious to see if there might be a romantic interest for Eva developing.
February 14, 2018
Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her sister Julia have been invited to visit their second cousin Lady Regina Brockhurst at her newly purchased home High Head Lodge. Julia is eager to get away from her grandmother's constant attempts at marrying her off to an eligible gentleman and is eager for the visit, despite the gloomy appearance of the Lodge. Phoebe isn't sure why she has been invited but is hoping to become closer to her sister and older cousin. Regina's friend Olive Asquith (certainly no relation to the former prime minister) is also living at the Lodge. Olive is very odd with her tweed suits, clean, minimalist lines and snooty attitude towards tradition. When Regina's family descends angrily upon her demanding their share of the inheritance Lord Mandeville left his daughter, Phoebe and her maid Eva wish to leave with or without Julia who desires to stay to witness the drama. When Regina is discovered dead the next morning, Phoebe's plans change. The Chief Inspector, still incompetent, demands everyone stay at the Lodge until the mystery is solved. Constable Miles Brannock knows there's more to the death than meets the eye. He enlists the help of Eva, Phoebe's maid, to help him solve the crime. With an angry family on the loose, it could have been any of them! Would the aristocracy stoop to murdering their own kin or is is Lady Julia's new maid who acts suspicious at every turn?
This mystery is so good! I really enjoy this series almost as much as the Lady Frances Ffolks mysteries. They're very similar. This series is kinder and more gentle than the Lady Frances mysteries and Lady Frances usually deals with wider issues of the day while Phoebe and Eva stick to mysteries that directly affect them and their worlds. I had a very hard time putting this book down. There are so many suspects and so many motives it was impossible to guess. I was very surprised by who and why! I did not like how Phoebe once again stumbles into danger, this time alone.
There's also some relationship subplots. Most of the mystery is from Eva's point-of-view so the reader gets more of her romance with Miles. They are very sweet together. I liked learning more about him and getting to know his personality better. Then there is the relationship between Phoebe and her beautiful older sister Julia. I kind of figured out what Julia's problem was but Julia is a tough nut, much like Lady Mary Crawley, so it's hard to know what she's thinking and feeling. Phoebe is so very sweet and still a bit naive. I really like her ideas for reform. They make the most sense given the society they live in. I love the relationship between Phoebe and Eva. They're more like sisters than maid/employer or even friends. I love how protective and devoted Eva is to her ladies. Phoebe and Eva are great role models for young women.
None of the new characters are at all enjoyable. I didn't want Regina to die. I think she had a good heart but was a bit of a dilettante when it comes to projects. Her family members are all awful. Her mother and sister-in-law care more for social position and wealth while her brother is a greedy alcoholic. None of them care about Regina as a person. All they care about is materialistic things. Ralph isn't much help either. At first he seems kind but then he tries his seductive look on Regina to get his own way. There's more to him than meets the eye. However, family couldn't possibly murder family right? That leaves Olive, Regina's friend. At first I suspected something about her and then I realized I was wrong and figured out quickly what she was about. It's easy to see from the hindsight of 100 years just how wrong she really is. I think she doesn't fully understand the implications of what she's gotten into. Her abrasive personality doesn't help matters much. The downstairs crew could also be suspects. There's two live-in servants a cook and a maid. Neither are in the story much. The cook seems kind and the maid is silent but I suspect she may know more than she lets on. Then there's a couple who comes to clean- or do they? I figured out their secret right away.
The history of the post-WWI era is seamlessly woven into this story. It's not as dark as in previous books but it's there just behind the facade of pretty clothes and a fancy house. I don't know much about this time period in Britain but I felt enormously sad for the characters clinging to a past that is done or will be. Will young Fox survive WWII and/or any sons he may have? I find the between-the-wars time period difficult to read about for this reason.
This is the perfect cure for missing Downton Abbey blues. Fans of the series will love the upstairs/downstairs characters and the same world of nobility the show brought to life. Another great mystery from Alyssa Maxwell!
Content: Mild violence/history of war crimes/mention of revolution
Mild romance (kisses)
This mystery is so good! I really enjoy this series almost as much as the Lady Frances Ffolks mysteries. They're very similar. This series is kinder and more gentle than the Lady Frances mysteries and Lady Frances usually deals with wider issues of the day while Phoebe and Eva stick to mysteries that directly affect them and their worlds. I had a very hard time putting this book down. There are so many suspects and so many motives it was impossible to guess. I was very surprised by who and why! I did not like how Phoebe once again stumbles into danger, this time alone.
There's also some relationship subplots. Most of the mystery is from Eva's point-of-view so the reader gets more of her romance with Miles. They are very sweet together. I liked learning more about him and getting to know his personality better. Then there is the relationship between Phoebe and her beautiful older sister Julia. I kind of figured out what Julia's problem was but Julia is a tough nut, much like Lady Mary Crawley, so it's hard to know what she's thinking and feeling. Phoebe is so very sweet and still a bit naive. I really like her ideas for reform. They make the most sense given the society they live in. I love the relationship between Phoebe and Eva. They're more like sisters than maid/employer or even friends. I love how protective and devoted Eva is to her ladies. Phoebe and Eva are great role models for young women.
None of the new characters are at all enjoyable. I didn't want Regina to die. I think she had a good heart but was a bit of a dilettante when it comes to projects. Her family members are all awful. Her mother and sister-in-law care more for social position and wealth while her brother is a greedy alcoholic. None of them care about Regina as a person. All they care about is materialistic things. Ralph isn't much help either. At first he seems kind but then he tries his seductive look on Regina to get his own way. There's more to him than meets the eye. However, family couldn't possibly murder family right? That leaves Olive, Regina's friend. At first I suspected something about her and then I realized I was wrong and figured out quickly what she was about. It's easy to see from the hindsight of 100 years just how wrong she really is. I think she doesn't fully understand the implications of what she's gotten into. Her abrasive personality doesn't help matters much. The downstairs crew could also be suspects. There's two live-in servants a cook and a maid. Neither are in the story much. The cook seems kind and the maid is silent but I suspect she may know more than she lets on. Then there's a couple who comes to clean- or do they? I figured out their secret right away.
The history of the post-WWI era is seamlessly woven into this story. It's not as dark as in previous books but it's there just behind the facade of pretty clothes and a fancy house. I don't know much about this time period in Britain but I felt enormously sad for the characters clinging to a past that is done or will be. Will young Fox survive WWII and/or any sons he may have? I find the between-the-wars time period difficult to read about for this reason.
This is the perfect cure for missing Downton Abbey blues. Fans of the series will love the upstairs/downstairs characters and the same world of nobility the show brought to life. Another great mystery from Alyssa Maxwell!
Content: Mild violence/history of war crimes/mention of revolution
Mild romance (kisses)
February 18, 2023
This was cute
December 28, 2017
“A Devious Death” earns 5/5 Murderous Motives…Delightful Fun, M’ Lady!
Ladies Phoebe and Julia Renshaw are eager to spend some of their summer at High Head Lodge, the estate recently purchased by cousin Regina with her ‘more than the lion’s share’ of the inheritance from her late father’s estate. Family drama, of course, ensues when Regina’s mother, brother and sister-in-law, and family lawyer make a disagreeable appearance with the purpose of convincing Regina to share her windfall more equitably with the family. Later a piercing scream tragically alerts everyone that conflicts over money and disgruntled family can often lead to murder. Once again Lady Phoebe, partnered with her lady’s maid Eva Huntford, is given a green light by Constable Brannock who recognizes her unique talents in investigating murder. Off they go despite the constraints on class and women to be met with more than one murderous motive, suspicious employees, and family too eager to enjoy their new windfall.
Alyssa Maxwell has once again provided me with a very entertaining and long awaited “Downton Abbey” fix with this third book in her Lady and Lady’s Maid Mystery series. A very well-written mystery with clues that slowly revealed and delightfully challenged my inner detective, it wasn’t slow in tempo or wasteful of events unrelated to the mystery or character development. The story had a very addicting depth that kept me turning the pages and hoping it would never end. Although the relationship between Lady Phoebe and Eva is likely not typical for the era, the interactions and friendly banter and their growth together as a team and apart as women through the series is very enjoyable, and I am fascinated by the upstairs/downstairs nuances, post WWI issues facilitating changes, and women’s place in society. Although the times change slightly starting in December of 1918 to late summer of 1919 and many of the relationships have been set, newbies can dive right in without issues, but if you enjoy experiencing the changes around the characters and their connections and growth, you might wish to start with the first book, “Murder Most Malicious” (December 2015) and then “A Pinch of Poison” (January 2017). I highly recommend this series!
“Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, however these are my honest opinions.”
Ladies Phoebe and Julia Renshaw are eager to spend some of their summer at High Head Lodge, the estate recently purchased by cousin Regina with her ‘more than the lion’s share’ of the inheritance from her late father’s estate. Family drama, of course, ensues when Regina’s mother, brother and sister-in-law, and family lawyer make a disagreeable appearance with the purpose of convincing Regina to share her windfall more equitably with the family. Later a piercing scream tragically alerts everyone that conflicts over money and disgruntled family can often lead to murder. Once again Lady Phoebe, partnered with her lady’s maid Eva Huntford, is given a green light by Constable Brannock who recognizes her unique talents in investigating murder. Off they go despite the constraints on class and women to be met with more than one murderous motive, suspicious employees, and family too eager to enjoy their new windfall.
Alyssa Maxwell has once again provided me with a very entertaining and long awaited “Downton Abbey” fix with this third book in her Lady and Lady’s Maid Mystery series. A very well-written mystery with clues that slowly revealed and delightfully challenged my inner detective, it wasn’t slow in tempo or wasteful of events unrelated to the mystery or character development. The story had a very addicting depth that kept me turning the pages and hoping it would never end. Although the relationship between Lady Phoebe and Eva is likely not typical for the era, the interactions and friendly banter and their growth together as a team and apart as women through the series is very enjoyable, and I am fascinated by the upstairs/downstairs nuances, post WWI issues facilitating changes, and women’s place in society. Although the times change slightly starting in December of 1918 to late summer of 1919 and many of the relationships have been set, newbies can dive right in without issues, but if you enjoy experiencing the changes around the characters and their connections and growth, you might wish to start with the first book, “Murder Most Malicious” (December 2015) and then “A Pinch of Poison” (January 2017). I highly recommend this series!
“Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, however these are my honest opinions.”
February 17, 2018
An entertaining light mystery. I guess who the murderer was before the end easily but it's not a book for heavy thinking. Just breezy enjoyment. I have enjoyed this series but I won't be continuing with it after an interaction with the author where she was pretty rude. I don't support or recommend authors who are rude to their readers.
January 6, 2018
It always amazes me how much research goes into a fictional story. I use to just read a book, enjoy the story and leave it at that. But now when I read a book, I not only enjoy the story but appreciate the hard work that the author put into the story to ensure that it captures the reader's attention. After all an author's goal is to tell an interesting story, one that will mesmerize the reader and if the author is lucky the story will stay with the reader even after the last word is read and the book is closed.
And Alyssa Maxwell had mastered that !!! A Devious Death is the third book in her Lady and Lady's Maid Mystery series and with each book, I grow to love Lady Phoebe and her Lady's Maid Eva more and more !!
There is so much to love with these stories....the relationships among the main characters Lady Phoebe, her Lady's Maid Eva, Miles who is the Constable always on the job, and Lady Phoebe's older sister Julia. Of course other people are always introduced in the books as with A Devious Death.....Lady Phoebe and Lady Julia go to their cousin Regina's new home to help her with ideas for redecorating the huge estate. Only to have the rest of Regina's family show up unannounced claiming that Regina owes them money because she was named the only heir to her father's estate.
There ends up more questions than answers when Regina is found murdered and her "friend" Olive is the one to find her. Everyone is under suspicion, even Regina's mother and brother, and then when another person is murdered and a couple show up who aren't who they claim to be no one is safe....but no one can leave either.....per the Constable's orders.
Every time I read an Alyssa Maxwell novel I end up reading a remarkable story as well as learning a thing or two..... There within again I must applaud Maxwell and all other authors for all the work that they put into a story just so that I, a reader, can get lost for a while.....
And Alyssa Maxwell had mastered that !!! A Devious Death is the third book in her Lady and Lady's Maid Mystery series and with each book, I grow to love Lady Phoebe and her Lady's Maid Eva more and more !!
There is so much to love with these stories....the relationships among the main characters Lady Phoebe, her Lady's Maid Eva, Miles who is the Constable always on the job, and Lady Phoebe's older sister Julia. Of course other people are always introduced in the books as with A Devious Death.....Lady Phoebe and Lady Julia go to their cousin Regina's new home to help her with ideas for redecorating the huge estate. Only to have the rest of Regina's family show up unannounced claiming that Regina owes them money because she was named the only heir to her father's estate.
There ends up more questions than answers when Regina is found murdered and her "friend" Olive is the one to find her. Everyone is under suspicion, even Regina's mother and brother, and then when another person is murdered and a couple show up who aren't who they claim to be no one is safe....but no one can leave either.....per the Constable's orders.
Every time I read an Alyssa Maxwell novel I end up reading a remarkable story as well as learning a thing or two..... There within again I must applaud Maxwell and all other authors for all the work that they put into a story just so that I, a reader, can get lost for a while.....
May 6, 2019
As always, an enjoyable and engaging read as we discover scandalous secrets! Maxwell interests readers with tidbits on our beloved characters as we watch their relationships develop, whether it be positively or tragically. I found myself struggling to piece together who our murderer was this time around, as it seemed all suspects has their own goals and secrets to hide. Even though this book series is set to a more classic time period, I found myself loving how strong our female characters were and at times warmed by their budding relationships. A great third book to the series, I can only hope that Maxewell continues her Lady and Ladys Maid series!!
February 1, 2023
I really enjoy spending time with Lady Phoebe and her lady's maid Ava as they solve yet another murder. I enjoy hearing what it was like in England just after World War I and the surge of communism and the civil war in Russia. I love the characters including Ava's love interest Miles and wished we had seen a little more about Phoebe's maybe love interest.
A really good story that is fast paced and well written
A really good story that is fast paced and well written
February 1, 2018
An entertaining read. I am not one for British cozies but I really like this series. Even in a house full of suspects with multiple motives, the story kept me guessing the killer's identity until the very end.
December 13, 2017
I really liked this book - much more than the other two books in the series. With this one, I never guessed "whodunit" or expected the deaths of 2 of the characters! Such a shocker to me. And when we learn about the house and its usage is also a huge surprise; I wasn't expecting what happened to happen.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable read and I look forward to the author's next book in this series.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable read and I look forward to the author's next book in this series.
December 7, 2017
Lady Julia and Lady Phoebe have been invited to visit their cousin Regina at her newly purchased estate. Of course each of them have taken their maids. Julia has a new maid, Myra. Phoebe has her long time maid, Eva.
When they arrive at the estate, they not only find Regina, but they also meet her new friend Olivia. Suddenly, Regina's mother, brother, sister-in-law and family attorney all arrive. They are there to convince Regina to share her new inheritance. She refuses and that leaves her family with little or no income on which to survive.
No matter how angry her family becomes nor how soothing the attorney may be, Regina sees no reason to share her newly found wealth.
Within a short period of time, there are two murders.
Lady Phoebe and Eva act as a team of investigators. Eva has a close friendship with Miles who is the local constable. He is a bright policeman who is able to solve mysteries. And he is not above using Phoebe and Eva and their skills of observation and deduction.
This story is set shortly after World War I. The English world is changing. Things will never be the same for the gentry. The working class has a new sense of self worth. Some women now have the vote, but there are still inequalities among the classes and the sexes. All in all, the changes are coming quickly and altering lives.
This is the third in a series but it works perfectly well as a stand alone read. Ms Maxwell introduces us to each character and situation in such a way that a new reader will never be lost.
Phoebe and Eva are a wonderful team. They are very human. They are intelligent, and quick to see people and situations clearly. They are wonderful problem solvers.
Each of the characters, whether primary or secondary, are completely developed. Within a few sentences, we get to know the personality of each person.
The mystery is well done. It keeps the reader guessing and that is what it is all about.
I enjoyed this book very much.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
When they arrive at the estate, they not only find Regina, but they also meet her new friend Olivia. Suddenly, Regina's mother, brother, sister-in-law and family attorney all arrive. They are there to convince Regina to share her new inheritance. She refuses and that leaves her family with little or no income on which to survive.
No matter how angry her family becomes nor how soothing the attorney may be, Regina sees no reason to share her newly found wealth.
Within a short period of time, there are two murders.
Lady Phoebe and Eva act as a team of investigators. Eva has a close friendship with Miles who is the local constable. He is a bright policeman who is able to solve mysteries. And he is not above using Phoebe and Eva and their skills of observation and deduction.
This story is set shortly after World War I. The English world is changing. Things will never be the same for the gentry. The working class has a new sense of self worth. Some women now have the vote, but there are still inequalities among the classes and the sexes. All in all, the changes are coming quickly and altering lives.
This is the third in a series but it works perfectly well as a stand alone read. Ms Maxwell introduces us to each character and situation in such a way that a new reader will never be lost.
Phoebe and Eva are a wonderful team. They are very human. They are intelligent, and quick to see people and situations clearly. They are wonderful problem solvers.
Each of the characters, whether primary or secondary, are completely developed. Within a few sentences, we get to know the personality of each person.
The mystery is well done. It keeps the reader guessing and that is what it is all about.
I enjoyed this book very much.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
December 27, 2017
A DEVIOUS DEATH, the third book in the Lady and Lady’s Maid Mystery series, is a delightful study in changing England immediately following the end of World War I. Lady Phoebe, her sister Julia, and their ladies maids are invited to Cousin Regina’s new home. Regina has recently inherited her father’s estate, and the way she chooses to use her newfound wealth, which remains somewhat of a mystery throughout the book, is reflective of the changing times. The lines between the classes are deteriorating, and the political and social attitudes are changing, too. Phoebe is sure that Regina is up to something other than simply redecorating her home. When not one, but two, murders take place, Phoebe and her loyal maid Eva are on the hunt to uncover the killer.
This series is among my favorites in the historical cozy mystery genre. Phoebe’s relationship with her lady’s maid Eva is unconventional, but it is what keeps me coming back for more. Phoebe is an independent woman for her era, intelligent and thoughtful in all that she does. She makes a competent investigator, but it is Eva, the level-headed sleuth, who is able to think outside of the box and move things along. They make a great upstairs/downstairs investigative team, and they work very well with the local police constable Miles, who is also Eva’s potential love interest.
Like any great closed-room mystery, there are several likely suspects with loads of motive. Regina’s friend Olive and her family are each unpleasant and would benefit from Regina’s death. Does it all boil down to the money? Even after another untimely death occurs, the motive seems clear. I did not guess whodunit until right before the big reveal. Kudos to Maxwell for keeping me guessing throughout and for using an unusual murder weapon.
I enjoyed every twisty turn of this well plotted whodunit. The pacing is good, the subplots equally as interesting as the central story. I look forward to many more adventures with Phoebe and Eva. I highly recommend A DEVIOUS DEATH to any fan of quality, historical tales.
I received and ARC of this title from the author and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.
This series is among my favorites in the historical cozy mystery genre. Phoebe’s relationship with her lady’s maid Eva is unconventional, but it is what keeps me coming back for more. Phoebe is an independent woman for her era, intelligent and thoughtful in all that she does. She makes a competent investigator, but it is Eva, the level-headed sleuth, who is able to think outside of the box and move things along. They make a great upstairs/downstairs investigative team, and they work very well with the local police constable Miles, who is also Eva’s potential love interest.
Like any great closed-room mystery, there are several likely suspects with loads of motive. Regina’s friend Olive and her family are each unpleasant and would benefit from Regina’s death. Does it all boil down to the money? Even after another untimely death occurs, the motive seems clear. I did not guess whodunit until right before the big reveal. Kudos to Maxwell for keeping me guessing throughout and for using an unusual murder weapon.
I enjoyed every twisty turn of this well plotted whodunit. The pacing is good, the subplots equally as interesting as the central story. I look forward to many more adventures with Phoebe and Eva. I highly recommend A DEVIOUS DEATH to any fan of quality, historical tales.
I received and ARC of this title from the author and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.
February 5, 2019
Lady Phoebe and her older sister July are off to visit their cousin Regina, who has recently purchased High Head Lodge after inheriting all of her father's estate. The inheritance is a bit controversial because it would have been expected that Regina's brother would have inherited the bulk of the estate. Regina is a bit of a rogue in the family, though. She, like Phoebe, is more independent than many other landed ladies.
In fact, Regina has plans to redecorate High Head Lodge so that it is no longer the staid manor home, but a modern home where she will be able to invite her friends and colleagues to come and live. The first of these is her friend Olive.
Phoebe and Julia are joined by their ladies maid. Phoebe has Eva, who is a dedicated, long-time servant, and Julia is accompanied by Miss Stanley, a new addition to their staff. Eva has serious questions about Stanley's dedication or willingness to work ... nevermind, Stanley's views of their mistresses.
After a day of shopping in the city group of ladies, friends, and servants return back to High Head Lodge to find Regina's brother, mother, and sister-in-law arriving to discuss the inheritance. In fact, they have brought the family solicitor. As you can imagine, things don't go particularly well and a fight ensues. No one could have imagined how bad thing were going to get. When everyone arises the following morning, they learn that Regina has been murdered in her suite with a hat pick. Everyone is a suspect, and there is a good chance the murderer will be willing to kill again to keep his or her identity a secret.
I have really enjoyed diving into this series. The partnership with Phoebe and Eva as they work with the local constable on each case is interesting and works well in allowing them to interact with characters/suspects of all stations and have access to all locations in a period when not everyone would due to the strict caste system.
I am certainly looking forward to the next book in the series.
In fact, Regina has plans to redecorate High Head Lodge so that it is no longer the staid manor home, but a modern home where she will be able to invite her friends and colleagues to come and live. The first of these is her friend Olive.
Phoebe and Julia are joined by their ladies maid. Phoebe has Eva, who is a dedicated, long-time servant, and Julia is accompanied by Miss Stanley, a new addition to their staff. Eva has serious questions about Stanley's dedication or willingness to work ... nevermind, Stanley's views of their mistresses.
After a day of shopping in the city group of ladies, friends, and servants return back to High Head Lodge to find Regina's brother, mother, and sister-in-law arriving to discuss the inheritance. In fact, they have brought the family solicitor. As you can imagine, things don't go particularly well and a fight ensues. No one could have imagined how bad thing were going to get. When everyone arises the following morning, they learn that Regina has been murdered in her suite with a hat pick. Everyone is a suspect, and there is a good chance the murderer will be willing to kill again to keep his or her identity a secret.
I have really enjoyed diving into this series. The partnership with Phoebe and Eva as they work with the local constable on each case is interesting and works well in allowing them to interact with characters/suspects of all stations and have access to all locations in a period when not everyone would due to the strict caste system.
I am certainly looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 8, 2018
Princess Fuzzypants here:
Phoebe and Julia question why they have been invited to visit their cousin, Regina. From the beginning, nothing seems straightforward and when Regina’s mother, brother and sister in law arrive, the tensions go into high gear. Regina’s father has bestowed his fortune upon her leaving the other three impoverished. Needless to say, accusations fly. It is anything but a happy family. Regina’s strange friend and the family lawyer make up the group staying in Regina’s home.
When Regina is murdered in her bed, there is a long list of people who might have wanted to do her harm, including Julia’s lady’s maid who seems to have a “history” with the dead woman. The lawyer appears to have stumbled upon important information which he wants to share with Phoebe. He is murdered before he can do so.
Who is responsible for the murders and why? With a plot laced with avarice, deceit and a dose of ether, nothing becomes clear until Phoebe herself is put in mortal danger.
This is an entertaining series where the reader feels they have been transported back to post WWI England, a nation much changed from before the War. The characters are fascinating= those clutching the old ways and those who acknowledge the upheavals. I do enjoy historical novels that can make you feel as if you are truly there. This does it most effectively.
I give it five purrs and two paws up as a good read for a snowy winter’s day.
Phoebe and Julia question why they have been invited to visit their cousin, Regina. From the beginning, nothing seems straightforward and when Regina’s mother, brother and sister in law arrive, the tensions go into high gear. Regina’s father has bestowed his fortune upon her leaving the other three impoverished. Needless to say, accusations fly. It is anything but a happy family. Regina’s strange friend and the family lawyer make up the group staying in Regina’s home.
When Regina is murdered in her bed, there is a long list of people who might have wanted to do her harm, including Julia’s lady’s maid who seems to have a “history” with the dead woman. The lawyer appears to have stumbled upon important information which he wants to share with Phoebe. He is murdered before he can do so.
Who is responsible for the murders and why? With a plot laced with avarice, deceit and a dose of ether, nothing becomes clear until Phoebe herself is put in mortal danger.
This is an entertaining series where the reader feels they have been transported back to post WWI England, a nation much changed from before the War. The characters are fascinating= those clutching the old ways and those who acknowledge the upheavals. I do enjoy historical novels that can make you feel as if you are truly there. This does it most effectively.
I give it five purrs and two paws up as a good read for a snowy winter’s day.
December 28, 2017
Julia and Phoebe are visiting their cousin, a newly minted heiress who is clearly up to something. Eva and Julia's new maid, who is also up to something, also come along. The new maid has serious airs about her and left the service of Lady DIana Manners somewhat strangely to Eva's mind. Cousin Regina is living with her friend Olive in a newly purchased home after inheriting everything from her recently dead father - at the expense of her brother and mother. She has big plans for the house but wont say quite what they are. Her estranged family shows up with the family lawyer in tow. But alas the next morning she is dead in her bed with a hat pin to the back of her neck. The family tries to blame Olive for being the killer, the one to lead her astray, and every other ill. This brings Miles to the house to investigate. Owen and grandparents are only the rare phone call. Eva and Phoebe of course help to investigate putting themselves in serious danger repeatedly. I had most figured but not the big part of the who. Less fun than others because missing some side characters and their usual charm, but interesting developments on the Julia and PHoebe relationship.
June 11, 2018
I have not read the previous 2 books in the series. I don't feel I was missing much info as far as the actual mystery went but I was lacking some knowledge of the sisters' history which was driving some of their interactions. Didn't stop me from solving who did it but left me wondering about the sisters themselves.
Lady Phoebe and her sister have been invited to visit the home their cousin Regina just purchased. Regina has a friend living with her as well. Regina has plans to get rid of all the Victorian decorations & furniture & completely redo the place though she is cagey about why. A day after Phoebe & Julia arrive Regina's mom, brother, sister in law and the family lawyer all arrive in a huff and create a huge scene. Notwithstanding this, they are invited to stay the night - or is it for months? Arguments happen about her father's death & her inheritance (brother only got what was entailed, Regina got all the money). Regina is found dead the next morning. The lawyer is killed next. Police are called but the inspector is bad at his job and Phoebe & her maid help the constable solve the case.
Interesting murder. Lots of red herrings. Plenty of period detail. A few interesting twists. Overall a good story well told
Lady Phoebe and her sister have been invited to visit the home their cousin Regina just purchased. Regina has a friend living with her as well. Regina has plans to get rid of all the Victorian decorations & furniture & completely redo the place though she is cagey about why. A day after Phoebe & Julia arrive Regina's mom, brother, sister in law and the family lawyer all arrive in a huff and create a huge scene. Notwithstanding this, they are invited to stay the night - or is it for months? Arguments happen about her father's death & her inheritance (brother only got what was entailed, Regina got all the money). Regina is found dead the next morning. The lawyer is killed next. Police are called but the inspector is bad at his job and Phoebe & her maid help the constable solve the case.
Interesting murder. Lots of red herrings. Plenty of period detail. A few interesting twists. Overall a good story well told
December 4, 2017
This was the first book I had read in the series and I didn't feel like I needed to have read the previous books. Even knowing that Phoebe Renshaw and her maid Eva Huntford have solved two previous mysteries, it still felt like I was able to get to know the characters without a lot of info dumping.
This time Phoebe and her sister Julia have been invited to their cousin's. She's just bought a new house and wants Phoebe and Julia to visit. But it is a very odd sort of meeting. The cousin has now servants, just an odd friend, Olive. And they're both being very secretive about their plans for the building. To add to the oddity, Regina (the cousin's) family shows up. Her mother, brother, and sister-in-law, all of whom are upset that Regina's father left all the family money to her. It should not be a surprise to mystery readers that Regina ends up dead and there are no shortage of people who would like to see her dead.
Yes, it's a little over the top but still fun.
This time Phoebe and her sister Julia have been invited to their cousin's. She's just bought a new house and wants Phoebe and Julia to visit. But it is a very odd sort of meeting. The cousin has now servants, just an odd friend, Olive. And they're both being very secretive about their plans for the building. To add to the oddity, Regina (the cousin's) family shows up. Her mother, brother, and sister-in-law, all of whom are upset that Regina's father left all the family money to her. It should not be a surprise to mystery readers that Regina ends up dead and there are no shortage of people who would like to see her dead.
Yes, it's a little over the top but still fun.
December 9, 2017
3.75 stars
This historical cozy series, featuring an upstairs-downstairs amateur sleuthing team of a Lady and her maid, has much to recommend it. The characters are quite nicely drawn, and the plotting and pacing is well done. The whole notion of this fraternization between classes seems very unlikely, but it doesn't stop this from being a rollicking good read if you are willing to set the plausibility of it all aside.
Lady Phoebe, her sister Julia, and her lady's maid Eva are visiting their cousins after a death in the family when a gruesome murder occurs. Since the family branch they were visiting is in disarray after ramifications of an inheritance are revealed, there are lots of suspects. But before the first murder can be solved, there is yet another death. It isn't long before Lady Phoebe and Eva are both imperiled during their investigation.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This historical cozy series, featuring an upstairs-downstairs amateur sleuthing team of a Lady and her maid, has much to recommend it. The characters are quite nicely drawn, and the plotting and pacing is well done. The whole notion of this fraternization between classes seems very unlikely, but it doesn't stop this from being a rollicking good read if you are willing to set the plausibility of it all aside.
Lady Phoebe, her sister Julia, and her lady's maid Eva are visiting their cousins after a death in the family when a gruesome murder occurs. Since the family branch they were visiting is in disarray after ramifications of an inheritance are revealed, there are lots of suspects. But before the first murder can be solved, there is yet another death. It isn't long before Lady Phoebe and Eva are both imperiled during their investigation.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 30, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my opinion of the book or my review itself.
In this cozy mystery, Lady Phoebe and her lady's maid, Eva, work to solve a murder that directly impacts Phoebe and her family. Inheritance disputes have brought Phoebe's warring relations to descend on the home Phoebe and her sister are visiting, and the arguments soon lead to murder.
Lady Phoebe and Eva are compelling and strong characters, and their relationship is a delight, as are the romances they find themselves in. The supporting cast are unique and interesting, and as a reader I found myself genuinely caring about the solution to the crime and who it would impact.
I'm not a huge fan of the book cover (I think it makes the book look more amateurish than it is), and the story did start out a little slow for my tastes, but this was a fun cozy in a series I could see myself revisiting.
In this cozy mystery, Lady Phoebe and her lady's maid, Eva, work to solve a murder that directly impacts Phoebe and her family. Inheritance disputes have brought Phoebe's warring relations to descend on the home Phoebe and her sister are visiting, and the arguments soon lead to murder.
Lady Phoebe and Eva are compelling and strong characters, and their relationship is a delight, as are the romances they find themselves in. The supporting cast are unique and interesting, and as a reader I found myself genuinely caring about the solution to the crime and who it would impact.
I'm not a huge fan of the book cover (I think it makes the book look more amateurish than it is), and the story did start out a little slow for my tastes, but this was a fun cozy in a series I could see myself revisiting.
February 20, 2018
Lady Phoebe, her sister Lady Julia, their maids Eva and Myra have been invited by Phoebe & Julia's cousin Regina, to her new house. Also there is increasingly obnoxious friend Olive. Taking place in England in 1919, the Great War is only just over, and there are rumblings about the revolution in Russia, the assassination of the Tsar and his family, and changes in society. Regina's family comes to see her, acrimoniously, since she inherited her father's fortune, leaving the entail with very little money to his son. To everyone's horror, Regina is found killed the next morning, and later that day, the family's solicitor. A classic whodunit.
If you like Rhys Bowen's Royal Spyness series, Jacqueline WInspear's Maisie Dobbs, this is a good series. Not funny like Lady Georgie, or as in depth as Maisie Dobbs, but still, a nice English cozy. I'll have to read the first 2. This is only the third book in the series, so not a lot to catch up on!
If you like Rhys Bowen's Royal Spyness series, Jacqueline WInspear's Maisie Dobbs, this is a good series. Not funny like Lady Georgie, or as in depth as Maisie Dobbs, but still, a nice English cozy. I'll have to read the first 2. This is only the third book in the series, so not a lot to catch up on!
May 26, 2018
I liked this one better than #2 in the series as the setting was more interesting as were the characters, both the likable and unlikeable ones. As is usual for Maxwell, the plotting was well done and complicated enough and the clues well hidden and yet out in the open. The two main characters. Lady Phoebe and Eva are well-drawn and we learn a little bit more about Phoebe's elder sister Julia, who heretofore has been rather unlikeable. Now we learn some reasons why. As much as the mystery the details of life in the upper classes it is the interplay of mores and politesse vs. the changing viewpoints of the younger characters due to the war that is interesting. A way of life has passed, though some think it is now only changing and others think that it can still be maintained. But "the moving finger has written and moves on...." Looking forward to #4.
December 12, 2018
I appreciated the fact that where and where this cozy mystery takes place is stated at the beginning of the book, so I didn’t have to wonder and find out after three hundred pages. Although the story, that takes place in an English county estate in 1919, resembles English murder mysteries written eighty to hundred years ago, being slow-paced with a linear story line, it doesn’t describe the physical and the political environment or the culture of that certain era in detail. Being a cozy mystery, the book doesn’t have graphic violence, sexual content or any swear words, which I appreciated, but unlike a cozy, there is a lot of bickering among the family members of the victim and an emotional and bitter rollercoaster ride of a relationship between the main character and her sister which really takes the enjoyment out of reading this well-written mystery. Three and a half stars.
August 3, 2018
We are in England and World War I is over. Two ladies along with their ladies maids go for a visit at their cousins new acquired estate. They aren’t there long before the first of two murders take place. Lady Phoebe and her ladies maid start the snooping as the book centers around their investigation and ultimate solving of the crime.
Good character development – you like or dislike the characters and have a familiar feeling as you read. Good uncomplicated and not overly detailed writing.
I was personally disappointed in the ending. Do not like a twist that involves factors that you as a reader could never have known. Good book and then a pulled together made up ending that didn’t blend with what you read - again solving of murder included information never introduced in storyline. Disappointing and cost my rating a star.
Good character development – you like or dislike the characters and have a familiar feeling as you read. Good uncomplicated and not overly detailed writing.
I was personally disappointed in the ending. Do not like a twist that involves factors that you as a reader could never have known. Good book and then a pulled together made up ending that didn’t blend with what you read - again solving of murder included information never introduced in storyline. Disappointing and cost my rating a star.
September 22, 2017
England after World War I was a place of upheaval and rapid social change. The peerage was losing its hold on the rest of the country and often falling into hard times, even bankruptcy. A Devious Death follows one such family as they squabble over inheritances, even driving someone to murder. The Brockhurst family, headed by Lord Mandeville, are Lady Phoebe Renshaw's cousins, and Phoebe, her sister Julia, and their lady's maids have travelled to visit Regina Brockhurst, who has just inherited the whole kit and caboodle. Unfortunately, that is enough of a reason for someone to murder her.
Filled with red herrings galore, A Devious Death is deliciously convoluted. A thoroughly delightful read.
Filled with red herrings galore, A Devious Death is deliciously convoluted. A thoroughly delightful read.
December 21, 2017
I got an ARC copy of this book from the author for an honest review. Phoebe and Julia Renshaw go to visit their cousin, Regina Brockhurst at her new home High Head Lodge. While they are there two murders happen. Phoebe and her maid, Eva Huntford help the police discover what happened. This was a fascinating book with a surprising ending and an exploration of communism coming to England after World War I. I was really surprised by who the killer turned out to be. I also enjoyed the interactions between Eva Huntford and Constable Miles Brannock and hope they end up getting together more in future books in the series. A Delightful cozy mystery. Highly recommend this book and the whole series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2017
A wonderful historical cozy - and don't worry if you haven't read the first two as this works just fine as a standalone (although you'll find yourself wanting to spend more time with Maxwell's characters.). Phoebe and Eva are one dynamic duo. A lady's maid is such an archaic convention for us but she was critical in 1919 Britain. That the lady and her maid team up to solve murders, well, that's just a terrific idea. This time around you'll learn a bit about inheritance, which is at the core of this mystery. Maxwell's tale reminds of how different it was before computers, phones, CSI, and so on. It's atmospheric, well plotted, and quite entertaining (there's even a chuckle or two.). Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This one will keep you guessing.
January 21, 2018
I was really entertained by Alyssa Maxwell's book, A Devious Death. It is the third book in her Lady & Maid Mystery series. Lady Phoebe Renshaw and her sister, Julia go to visit their cousin, Regina, at her new estate--High Head Lodge. Not long into their stay, Regina is found dead with a dragonfly pin sticking in the base of her skull! There is no shortage of suspects: Regina's friend--Olive, her brother, her mother, her sister-in-law, and various servants. I thought I had figured out the mystery of "who done it", only to be proven wrong in the end when some secrets were revealed! This book had interesting characters and a well paced plot. What a fun series!
February 8, 2018
I have read one of the previous Lady/Lady's Maid mysteries -- don't remember which one, but I remember that I liked it. Also liked this one quite a lot -- actually like Eva better than Phoebe, but both are delightful. Julia seems like a bitch, but I don't know all of her story. This book had some awful people in it; both Lady Mandevilles, Olive (who got better), Hastings, Stanley (the bad maid), and so on and so on. Lots of head bashing in this one, plus a murder-by-hatpin, of all things. Whatever went on, and some of it was strange, it held my interest the entire time. Good for you, Alyssa Maxwell!!
May 21, 2018
I love the relationship between Eva and the Renshaw sisters. In this installment, we get to learn more about Constable Miles and, though Owen Seabright was present only via phone, odds are good he will appear in the next adventure. Sadly, it was difficult to muster much sympathy for any of Phoebe's cousin's family--they were singularly disagreeable people, with the possible exception of Regina. In some ways, this story reminded me of many if the elements in the Miss Fisher mystery series--of course, it is set in the same time period after all and the same class (and political) issues. Looking forward to seeing what's next.
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