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Doyle & Acton #8
Murder in Spite
This holiday trip to Dublin had been very hard on Doyle’s husband—although he was making a monumental effort to disguise this fact—and unless she very much missed her guess, it was all somehow connected to the grisly murder on the station-house steps. That, and an African cab-driver who wore a jaunty tam o’shanter.
242 pages, Paperback
First published September 16, 2018
About the author
Anne Cleeland
39 books477 followersAnne Cleeland writes a contemporary Scotland Yard mystery series that is featured in the Amazon top 100 best sellers. She also writes a historical series of stand-alone books set in the Regency period. A member of International Thriller Writers, The Historical Novel Society, and Mystery Writers of America, she lives in California and has four children. www.annecleeland.com; @annecleeland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 27, 2019
I find this series amusing, especially after the astounding Murder in Thrall. But I don't mean to imply it is a comedy. Lord Acton, a ranking officer at Scotland Yard, tries to protect his wife from everything, including his many misdeeds. His wife, the young, fey Kathleen, a detective sergeant who often works with her husband, tries to protect him from his many misdeeds. Neither has an easy time of it, and it is usually Kathleen who figures out what is going on. Acton never seems to learn.
Both of the Actons are are maternity leave and decide to travel to Dublin to visit Kathleen's hometown. They take off with their retinue and they immediately encounter unexpected trouble, leaving Acton to figure out a solution on the fly. Multiples troubles actually.
I adore this series, not too many books make my jaw drop so I have continued along for the ride. Quirky doesn't even begin to describe this series. Kathleen has gained some confidence, Acton has tempered his actions. The stories are still somewhat convoluted, but who cares? It's the ride baby, the ride.
Both of the Actons are are maternity leave and decide to travel to Dublin to visit Kathleen's hometown. They take off with their retinue and they immediately encounter unexpected trouble, leaving Acton to figure out a solution on the fly. Multiples troubles actually.
I adore this series, not too many books make my jaw drop so I have continued along for the ride. Quirky doesn't even begin to describe this series. Kathleen has gained some confidence, Acton has tempered his actions. The stories are still somewhat convoluted, but who cares? It's the ride baby, the ride.
September 20, 2021
There were quite a few times as I read this book that I found myself impatient and/or irritated. Looks like there are many more books left for me to tackle in this series, but I had better take a break so I can come back and return to the original enchantment I felt over the creative characters that live in these pages.
The family heads for Dublin. From the start there is apparent danger even though Acton nails down security in all ways possible. Are they able to have some moments of fun? Yes, but there is continuing undercurrent of danger with even the Garda antagonistic.
The couple does visit the orphanage they have sponsored and other Dublin sites but there is a very real threat looming.
The family heads for Dublin. From the start there is apparent danger even though Acton nails down security in all ways possible. Are they able to have some moments of fun? Yes, but there is continuing undercurrent of danger with even the Garda antagonistic.
The couple does visit the orphanage they have sponsored and other Dublin sites but there is a very real threat looming.
September 21, 2018
Exquisite! Murder in Spite, the eight novel in the outstanding Acton and Doyle Scotland Yard series, was an exciting read. Lots of action and intrigue that kept me spellbound. I tried to read slowly to savor this gem and now have another 12-month wait for the next adventure with Lord and Lady Acton. Well-done!
May 3, 2019
Review to come.
April 29, 2020
I just cannot understand why Acton doesn't just give up keeping secrets from Doyle?
It's really useless and harmful because she always knows that he's keeping secrets and just puts herself in danger because she MUST discover what they are!
It's really useless and harmful because she always knows that he's keeping secrets and just puts herself in danger because she MUST discover what they are!
October 26, 2018
Series: New Scotland Yard/Doyle and Acton #8
Publication Date: 9/16/18
Anne Cleeland writes marvelously quirky characters in very intelligent and well-crafted books. Acton and Doyle’s relationship is highly improbable while also being delightfully entertaining and intriguing. Acton is absolutely obsessed with the fey Doyle and the ensuing story is always delightful. Lessons learned from reading this series: (1) Ghosts immediately lose their ability to speak in straightforward, linear language as soon as they cross over. They speak in hints, riddles, and ambiguity. (2) Acton will always be up to something he shouldn’t be and will always try to keep it hidden from Doyle. (3) Doyle will always find out what Acton is up to and will get herself into trouble trying to stop it.
Just as an FYI, this series is best read in order from the beginning because each story builds upon the last. You can certainly read this book as a stand-alone and still enjoy the mystery, but you’ll miss out on who the people are and their relationships.
In the last book, Murder in Misdirection, Acton, Doyle, and crew brought down a huge sex-trafficking ring that reached into some of the highest levels of London’s Metropolitan Police Force. The aftermath has left the Met very shorthanded and the remaining crooks trying to cover their tracks. Also, at the end of the last book, Doyle gave birth to Edward.
This book begins with Acton taking Doyle and Edward (and their entourage) to Dublin to visit Doyle’s childhood haunts. He wants her away from London and all that is going on there. He wants her to rest and enjoy being a mother after her narrow escape from a rooftop. Doyle is sure that Acton has an ulterior motive for getting her out of London, but if it gets him away too, then that is good with her. Then, Edward and his nanny are almost pushed from the train. Doyle takes it as an accident, but Acton is on high alert from that point on. He immediately changes all of their pre-booked travel plans and assures that Doyle and Edward are always accompanied wherever they go.
As soon as they arrive, Acton is summoned to the local Garda (police) station. They had a dead body turn up right on the Garda’s entry steps and the victim had come to the station the day before wanting to get in contact with Acton. The Irish Garda is immediately suspicious of Acton. Acton is immediately up to something – covering up what has happened, but Doyle doesn’t have a clue why. Then, they learn of a bishop’s murder in London. Are the two murders related?
Poor Doyle has to figure out what is going on with the murders, figure out what Acton is up to and deal with two ghosts who are haunting her dreams and leaving her with very ambiguous clues to what is going on.
Cleeland’s stories always have a lot going on and this one is no exception. The personal lives of their entourage also keep Doyle and Acton busy, so that relaxing and happy vacation just never quite materializes. We also meet someone new that I think will be a continuing character. She is a young Pakistani intern, Nazy, at the local garda station. I liked her and it will be interesting to see how she fits into future stories.
I certainly recommend this entire series and I can't wait for the next adventure.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 9/16/18
Anne Cleeland writes marvelously quirky characters in very intelligent and well-crafted books. Acton and Doyle’s relationship is highly improbable while also being delightfully entertaining and intriguing. Acton is absolutely obsessed with the fey Doyle and the ensuing story is always delightful. Lessons learned from reading this series: (1) Ghosts immediately lose their ability to speak in straightforward, linear language as soon as they cross over. They speak in hints, riddles, and ambiguity. (2) Acton will always be up to something he shouldn’t be and will always try to keep it hidden from Doyle. (3) Doyle will always find out what Acton is up to and will get herself into trouble trying to stop it.
Just as an FYI, this series is best read in order from the beginning because each story builds upon the last. You can certainly read this book as a stand-alone and still enjoy the mystery, but you’ll miss out on who the people are and their relationships.
In the last book, Murder in Misdirection, Acton, Doyle, and crew brought down a huge sex-trafficking ring that reached into some of the highest levels of London’s Metropolitan Police Force. The aftermath has left the Met very shorthanded and the remaining crooks trying to cover their tracks. Also, at the end of the last book, Doyle gave birth to Edward.
This book begins with Acton taking Doyle and Edward (and their entourage) to Dublin to visit Doyle’s childhood haunts. He wants her away from London and all that is going on there. He wants her to rest and enjoy being a mother after her narrow escape from a rooftop. Doyle is sure that Acton has an ulterior motive for getting her out of London, but if it gets him away too, then that is good with her. Then, Edward and his nanny are almost pushed from the train. Doyle takes it as an accident, but Acton is on high alert from that point on. He immediately changes all of their pre-booked travel plans and assures that Doyle and Edward are always accompanied wherever they go.
As soon as they arrive, Acton is summoned to the local Garda (police) station. They had a dead body turn up right on the Garda’s entry steps and the victim had come to the station the day before wanting to get in contact with Acton. The Irish Garda is immediately suspicious of Acton. Acton is immediately up to something – covering up what has happened, but Doyle doesn’t have a clue why. Then, they learn of a bishop’s murder in London. Are the two murders related?
Poor Doyle has to figure out what is going on with the murders, figure out what Acton is up to and deal with two ghosts who are haunting her dreams and leaving her with very ambiguous clues to what is going on.
Cleeland’s stories always have a lot going on and this one is no exception. The personal lives of their entourage also keep Doyle and Acton busy, so that relaxing and happy vacation just never quite materializes. We also meet someone new that I think will be a continuing character. She is a young Pakistani intern, Nazy, at the local garda station. I liked her and it will be interesting to see how she fits into future stories.
I certainly recommend this entire series and I can't wait for the next adventure.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
October 12, 2018
First, I feel the need to advise readers who are just starting this series to avoid this review. It’s impossible to hold back certain details of the story at this point in the series that might spoil it for readers who enjoy the building upon one story to the next in series reading. Plus, there are characters from past books whose prior stories will be helpful. And, the Doyle and Acton series is just too wonderful of a series to not start at the beginning.
Oh my, it’s a holiday at last for Scotland Yard detectives Kathleen Doyle and Michael Sinclair/Lord Acton, a visit to Kathleen’s homeland of Ireland. And, with baby Edward in tow, there is a “retinue” of others along, including the nanny Mary and her daughter Gemma, the butler Reynolds, and a security detail named Trenton. It seems an awful fuss to Doyle, but as usual, there is more afoot than meets the eye, as she soon discovers, and the retinue will grow in numbers. Acton continues to try to protect Doyle from the knowledge of what’s going on behind the scenes, but Doyle is a dogged investigator into her husband’s scheming. Maternity leave from her job as Detective Sergeant at Scotland Yard hasn’t dimmed her fey abilities one wit, and although Acton is a Chief Inspector with many resources at hand, Doyle always sees through his subterfuge.
No sooner do they arrive off the boat when a murder takes place on the very steps of the Dublin Garda station. It is a person of infamous familiarity to Acton and Doyle, a priest who was involved in a sex slave ring back in London. As often happens when Acton is involved, this murder is just the first event in a connect-the-dots catastrophe he must try to fix, while hiding it from Doyle. A trip to the St. Brigid’s orphanage, established by funds from Acton at the convent where Doyle attended school as a child brings, little comfort to Doyle, as one of the nuns dies and begins to haunt her with cryptic messages in her sleep. Soon a dead Bishop from London joins in the nightly haranguing, and Doyle tries to put the pieces together from her dreams and Acton’s evasive actions to make sense of it all. Throw into the mix a baby who is constantly hungry and a cab driver from Africa and a jilted fiancé and someone who is a surprise enemy of Doyle’s, and the complete picture arrived at is a “crackin” web of far-reaching threads. Anne Cleeland is a master at having lots of lines tossed out in a story and cleverly bringing it all together. One of my favorite devices that Cleeland uses is the short sentence or two that is at the beginning of each chapter. In the past, it has been Acton’s thoughts we are privy to, but in Murder in Spite, it is the thoughts of someone who means harm to Kathleen Doyle and son Edward. These thoughts ramp up the suspense for the reader with an urgency not known to the characters working their way through the maze of clues.
Doyle is an absolute delight, as usual with her sense of humor and ability to deal with Acton as no one else dare. This couple is one of my all-time favorites in my reading, and I can’t wait to see what they get up to next. I suspect that Acton will continue to over-estimate his ability to keep his misdeeds secret from Doyle. And, there are so many fascinating minor characters, such as DI Thomas Williams and DS Isabel Munoz, who have gained readers interest and investment. Anne Cleeland is one of the best authors I read at character development, and the plots, are, as I mentioned earlier, complex but masterfully resolved in an exciting trip through deceptions. Add witty and engaging dialogue to the mix, and you can be assured that Murder in Spite is another hit in this successful series.
Oh my, it’s a holiday at last for Scotland Yard detectives Kathleen Doyle and Michael Sinclair/Lord Acton, a visit to Kathleen’s homeland of Ireland. And, with baby Edward in tow, there is a “retinue” of others along, including the nanny Mary and her daughter Gemma, the butler Reynolds, and a security detail named Trenton. It seems an awful fuss to Doyle, but as usual, there is more afoot than meets the eye, as she soon discovers, and the retinue will grow in numbers. Acton continues to try to protect Doyle from the knowledge of what’s going on behind the scenes, but Doyle is a dogged investigator into her husband’s scheming. Maternity leave from her job as Detective Sergeant at Scotland Yard hasn’t dimmed her fey abilities one wit, and although Acton is a Chief Inspector with many resources at hand, Doyle always sees through his subterfuge.
No sooner do they arrive off the boat when a murder takes place on the very steps of the Dublin Garda station. It is a person of infamous familiarity to Acton and Doyle, a priest who was involved in a sex slave ring back in London. As often happens when Acton is involved, this murder is just the first event in a connect-the-dots catastrophe he must try to fix, while hiding it from Doyle. A trip to the St. Brigid’s orphanage, established by funds from Acton at the convent where Doyle attended school as a child brings, little comfort to Doyle, as one of the nuns dies and begins to haunt her with cryptic messages in her sleep. Soon a dead Bishop from London joins in the nightly haranguing, and Doyle tries to put the pieces together from her dreams and Acton’s evasive actions to make sense of it all. Throw into the mix a baby who is constantly hungry and a cab driver from Africa and a jilted fiancé and someone who is a surprise enemy of Doyle’s, and the complete picture arrived at is a “crackin” web of far-reaching threads. Anne Cleeland is a master at having lots of lines tossed out in a story and cleverly bringing it all together. One of my favorite devices that Cleeland uses is the short sentence or two that is at the beginning of each chapter. In the past, it has been Acton’s thoughts we are privy to, but in Murder in Spite, it is the thoughts of someone who means harm to Kathleen Doyle and son Edward. These thoughts ramp up the suspense for the reader with an urgency not known to the characters working their way through the maze of clues.
Doyle is an absolute delight, as usual with her sense of humor and ability to deal with Acton as no one else dare. This couple is one of my all-time favorites in my reading, and I can’t wait to see what they get up to next. I suspect that Acton will continue to over-estimate his ability to keep his misdeeds secret from Doyle. And, there are so many fascinating minor characters, such as DI Thomas Williams and DS Isabel Munoz, who have gained readers interest and investment. Anne Cleeland is one of the best authors I read at character development, and the plots, are, as I mentioned earlier, complex but masterfully resolved in an exciting trip through deceptions. Add witty and engaging dialogue to the mix, and you can be assured that Murder in Spite is another hit in this successful series.
February 18, 2024
Well that was disappointing.
The audio reader was awful. Dick Van Dyke does a better British accent than she does Irish. Doyle sounded like a drunk Angela Lansbury.
Also the story was kinda lame. Each chapter was prefaced with a line or two from the mind of one of the villains. But the villain isn't the brightest bulb so it was like reading the machinations of the mean girl on Little House on the Prairie. Or if Dora the Explorer decided to turn to a life of crime.
Just when Acton and Doyle finally get to take a vacation, a variety of grisly murders seem to follow them to Ireland. Some romances flourish and others fail. But of course Acton and Doyle are firmly in each others corners.
I did like how the ghosts are not always harbingers but sometimes just whiners.
But I didn't like that the whole schtick about Doyle's lack of vocabulary was pushed too far in this one. It got kinda silly and made me wonder if she's ever read a book in her life.
The weirdest thing though, was that the last villain never did have a name...
The audio reader was awful. Dick Van Dyke does a better British accent than she does Irish. Doyle sounded like a drunk Angela Lansbury.
Also the story was kinda lame. Each chapter was prefaced with a line or two from the mind of one of the villains. But the villain isn't the brightest bulb so it was like reading the machinations of the mean girl on Little House on the Prairie. Or if Dora the Explorer decided to turn to a life of crime.
Just when Acton and Doyle finally get to take a vacation, a variety of grisly murders seem to follow them to Ireland. Some romances flourish and others fail. But of course Acton and Doyle are firmly in each others corners.
I did like how the ghosts are not always harbingers but sometimes just whiners.
But I didn't like that the whole schtick about Doyle's lack of vocabulary was pushed too far in this one. It got kinda silly and made me wonder if she's ever read a book in her life.
The weirdest thing though, was that the last villain never did have a name...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2018
I was disappointed in this story. It seemed contrived, with little substance and a confusing plot. Acton's assistant never has a name, and there are multiple blondes intending to do harm. Doyle's convoluted thinking and slang further confuses the issue, and it is only in the end that it is somewhat explained...this person killed that priest and that person killed another priest and the reasons changed over time, and it was all covered up. Not so satisfying as the previous books. Perhaps the author needs to slow down in her writing and come up with a more creative and clear plot.
September 26, 2018
3.5 - 3.75 ***
I though this book was just OK, not great. The effects from the corruption scandal are still being felt. Acton takes Doyle to Dublin to get away from London. Unfortunately instead of Doyle going down memory lane a priest is murdered. I did like the mystery. It was intriguing and kept me guessing until the end.
There wasn't as much scalp tingling for Doyle to ignore, for which I'm grateful. Instead there were so many Irish sayings and idioms that made no sense the story line became confusing. Portraying Doyle as the next thing to an idiot savant who sees ghost nearly ruined the story for me. She's not very motherly either, complaining in her own way about breast feeding every 45 minutes. Totally unrealistic. Doyle is still too impulsive and there's still too little real communication between her and Acton.
I enjoyed the earlier books in the series more.
I though this book was just OK, not great. The effects from the corruption scandal are still being felt. Acton takes Doyle to Dublin to get away from London. Unfortunately instead of Doyle going down memory lane a priest is murdered. I did like the mystery. It was intriguing and kept me guessing until the end.
There wasn't as much scalp tingling for Doyle to ignore, for which I'm grateful. Instead there were so many Irish sayings and idioms that made no sense the story line became confusing. Portraying Doyle as the next thing to an idiot savant who sees ghost nearly ruined the story for me. She's not very motherly either, complaining in her own way about breast feeding every 45 minutes. Totally unrealistic. Doyle is still too impulsive and there's still too little real communication between her and Acton.
I enjoyed the earlier books in the series more.
October 11, 2018
You often fall in love with M. C.’s who are in love with each other. At least I do. And Doyle and Acton fall into that category for me. These two have had an unconventional relationship from the beginning. But they do love to be together trying to do the right thing, they just have different notions of how to do it. Kathleen is deeply R. C., and while Acton has converted he likes taking matters into his own judgement and hands. Something Kathleen is aware of and continues to try to change her husbands ways.
This time their on a vacation to Ireland to Kathleen’s home town where they’ve started an orphanage for destitute children and visiting with the nuns there things start coming to a head with African nun, and an young female constable who really knows her way around a computer keyboard. She is at times a hinderance and a help.
They have a vast amount of people traveling with them. And all get entangled in this story of spite murders, either to help or hinder.
I read it in a day because I just want to be with them. But only to help.
This time their on a vacation to Ireland to Kathleen’s home town where they’ve started an orphanage for destitute children and visiting with the nuns there things start coming to a head with African nun, and an young female constable who really knows her way around a computer keyboard. She is at times a hinderance and a help.
They have a vast amount of people traveling with them. And all get entangled in this story of spite murders, either to help or hinder.
I read it in a day because I just want to be with them. But only to help.
October 8, 2018
ANOTHER GREAT TREAT OF A BOOK!!!!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
I absolutely love the Doyle & Acton series!!! These books are so unique and unusual.... They are a delight to read!! There is such a beautiful love story woven in with the most intriguing mysteries and plots.... The twists and turns are non-stop.... The red herrings also.... But the "clues" are all there for the reader to work with.... I really enjoy Doyle and Acton's relationship and how much they love each other and how protective Michael is of Kathleen.. it is so endearing....... And now we have the pleasure of Edward's presence which was so sweet to read about after reading all the other books in the series and awaiting his prospective arrival. As I am reading these books I always marvel at how clever, unusual, and unique Anne Cleeland's writing is. Her books continue to fascinate me and I think this one was the best of all!!! Hurry up Anne and write the next one 😁
I absolutely love the Doyle & Acton series!!! These books are so unique and unusual.... They are a delight to read!! There is such a beautiful love story woven in with the most intriguing mysteries and plots.... The twists and turns are non-stop.... The red herrings also.... But the "clues" are all there for the reader to work with.... I really enjoy Doyle and Acton's relationship and how much they love each other and how protective Michael is of Kathleen.. it is so endearing....... And now we have the pleasure of Edward's presence which was so sweet to read about after reading all the other books in the series and awaiting his prospective arrival. As I am reading these books I always marvel at how clever, unusual, and unique Anne Cleeland's writing is. Her books continue to fascinate me and I think this one was the best of all!!! Hurry up Anne and write the next one 😁
December 2, 2018
Another solid addition to the series. Doyle and Acton are wonderful characters. Each new story is like a visit to delightful old friends. (The books should be read in order; the first, Murder in Thrall, is stunning.)
October 2, 2018
Doyle & Acton - Adventures in Parenthood
I eagerly awaited this new adventure for Doyle & Acton and, even though I rated it four stars, was a little troubled by the sudden appearances of some of the minor characters. This was definitely not a stand alone novel. Nanda, Habib and Jean Luc suddenly appeared without any background or even a small detail to link them to past events. No context was given and I ended up going back to previous novels to refresh my memory, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, just a time consuming one. These characters were integral to the plot and I found if very difficult to sympathize with Nanda as very little background was given. To me, all these characters ended up very one-dimensional, existing only to provide plausibility for Acton’s actions.
There were three very complex spite murders to be untangled and explained and I think less spite and more Doyle & Acton interaction would have been better. That said, there is no way I would not enjoy this novel. Doyle & Acton are so original and fresh, I always love every new chapter in their life, especially now as parenthood and all its challenges are part of those lives.
I eagerly awaited this new adventure for Doyle & Acton and, even though I rated it four stars, was a little troubled by the sudden appearances of some of the minor characters. This was definitely not a stand alone novel. Nanda, Habib and Jean Luc suddenly appeared without any background or even a small detail to link them to past events. No context was given and I ended up going back to previous novels to refresh my memory, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, just a time consuming one. These characters were integral to the plot and I found if very difficult to sympathize with Nanda as very little background was given. To me, all these characters ended up very one-dimensional, existing only to provide plausibility for Acton’s actions.
There were three very complex spite murders to be untangled and explained and I think less spite and more Doyle & Acton interaction would have been better. That said, there is no way I would not enjoy this novel. Doyle & Acton are so original and fresh, I always love every new chapter in their life, especially now as parenthood and all its challenges are part of those lives.
January 25, 2024
*review copy courtesy of the author*
Acton and Doyle stroke again!
No rest for the wicked as even on holiday in Dublin, despite the lovely change of scenery, they still had to solve/cover up for some very questionable murders. On the side note, aren't all murders questionable by definition?
Luckily, Acton, away from his domain, was very restrained, although Doyle still added more grey hair to his collection.
It was interesting to get a glimpse into Doyle's childhood and her decision to travel to London.
We got introduced to a sweet new character, whom I am hoping to see in many more new books. I am speaking of course about lovely Nazy.
A short and sweet book with some nicely wrapped up plot threads. Very much recommended as usual.
Acton and Doyle stroke again!
No rest for the wicked as even on holiday in Dublin, despite the lovely change of scenery, they still had to solve/cover up for some very questionable murders. On the side note, aren't all murders questionable by definition?
Luckily, Acton, away from his domain, was very restrained, although Doyle still added more grey hair to his collection.
It was interesting to get a glimpse into Doyle's childhood and her decision to travel to London.
We got introduced to a sweet new character, whom I am hoping to see in many more new books. I am speaking of course about lovely Nazy.
A short and sweet book with some nicely wrapped up plot threads. Very much recommended as usual.
September 26, 2018
Just no.
I have read all of the books in the series and have disliked all the ghost activity. It seems to be used to solve the crimes. What really upset me here was what happened to the baby near the end. No mother would put her child in that kind of danger. Not sure I'll continue with the series. So much better in the beginning of the series.
I have read all of the books in the series and have disliked all the ghost activity. It seems to be used to solve the crimes. What really upset me here was what happened to the baby near the end. No mother would put her child in that kind of danger. Not sure I'll continue with the series. So much better in the beginning of the series.
May 29, 2019
Murder in Spite (New Scotland Yard/Doyle and Acton, #8) by Anne Cleeland is the most recent in this series. I read this as a Kindle book. (246 pages)
Despite a number of four and five star reviews for this book, and others in the series, this is a “two” for me, which equals “just OK.” As I say, many people review with wild enthusiasm, so don’t let me dissuade you from starting with book #1, if you are interested.
Although each book in the series contains what appears to be a “stand alone” crime that is solved by the New Scotland Yard team, details and characters carry through the series, and a reader would be lost without having read all books, beginning with book one. The reader definitely needs to employ “the willful suspension of disbelief” from their reading skills toolkit. However, past unfinished business from prior installments appears to be cleaned up as this book comes to a close.
High born English Detective Inspector Michael (Lord) Acton and working class Irish born Detective Sergeant Kathleen Doyle married early in the first novel. He is literally obsessed with her, and she has some ESP powers that help with crime solving. The two characters are quirky, with other traits and proclivities that carry through all of the books in the series. I rather like the characters, especially in the earliest books. A supporting cast is featured throughout the series, as well.
In this book, the couple, their newborn son, and their retinue are allegedly on vacation in Doyle's home town of Dublin, but spite murders seem to have followed them from London to Dublin. At times, I think the story line in this particular book is a bit unclear. Perhaps this is because you have to try to remember what went on in the prior books and because those crimes appeared to be closed, you no longer have all of that reference material in your memory banks. I think the critical plot elements could do with a bit of “cutting the wheat from the chaff” to make following along simpler.
My biggest disappointment with this entire series – and yet I keep reading (!) – is very poor copy editing. There are so many typos and punctuation errors throughout the series; I think it is unconscionable that the publisher releases books containing such glaring errors when they are selling this many copies, i.e. they can afford to spend a little more money on proof reading! Either the author isn’t squawking about it, or has not asked that something be done about it! Examples from 19 errors I noted include: “reposrted” (typical typo,) “Once in they were walking along the hotel corridor” (once in what?) “They’re arrested Williams,” (that should be They’ve,) and finally “as to why he’d been turned him around at the door” (just a real jumble there.)
If quality production is not a concern for you, and you like a quirky crime series, this one should be three or more stars for you.
Despite a number of four and five star reviews for this book, and others in the series, this is a “two” for me, which equals “just OK.” As I say, many people review with wild enthusiasm, so don’t let me dissuade you from starting with book #1, if you are interested.
Although each book in the series contains what appears to be a “stand alone” crime that is solved by the New Scotland Yard team, details and characters carry through the series, and a reader would be lost without having read all books, beginning with book one. The reader definitely needs to employ “the willful suspension of disbelief” from their reading skills toolkit. However, past unfinished business from prior installments appears to be cleaned up as this book comes to a close.
High born English Detective Inspector Michael (Lord) Acton and working class Irish born Detective Sergeant Kathleen Doyle married early in the first novel. He is literally obsessed with her, and she has some ESP powers that help with crime solving. The two characters are quirky, with other traits and proclivities that carry through all of the books in the series. I rather like the characters, especially in the earliest books. A supporting cast is featured throughout the series, as well.
In this book, the couple, their newborn son, and their retinue are allegedly on vacation in Doyle's home town of Dublin, but spite murders seem to have followed them from London to Dublin. At times, I think the story line in this particular book is a bit unclear. Perhaps this is because you have to try to remember what went on in the prior books and because those crimes appeared to be closed, you no longer have all of that reference material in your memory banks. I think the critical plot elements could do with a bit of “cutting the wheat from the chaff” to make following along simpler.
My biggest disappointment with this entire series – and yet I keep reading (!) – is very poor copy editing. There are so many typos and punctuation errors throughout the series; I think it is unconscionable that the publisher releases books containing such glaring errors when they are selling this many copies, i.e. they can afford to spend a little more money on proof reading! Either the author isn’t squawking about it, or has not asked that something be done about it! Examples from 19 errors I noted include: “reposrted” (typical typo,) “Once in they were walking along the hotel corridor” (once in what?) “They’re arrested Williams,” (that should be They’ve,) and finally “as to why he’d been turned him around at the door” (just a real jumble there.)
If quality production is not a concern for you, and you like a quirky crime series, this one should be three or more stars for you.
September 24, 2018
When Acton and Doyle decided to take a vacation in Dublin they thought it would be a quiet time to bond as a family with infant Edward... what could go wrong? Doyle is feeling overwhelmed by the needs of her every hungry baby and then a body lands on the steps of the Garda station just as they arrive in town. This eighth book in the Acton/Doyle series has everything readers love about the characters: witty exchanges, mysterious visitations during Doyle's dreams and bodies dropping unexpectedly hither and yond. Doyle is hard-pressed to keep up with all the goings on but with a dead nun and a dead Bishop berating her at night and her husband obviously up to something he doesn't want her to know about, she is once again struggling to save the day and keep her husband on the straight and narrow. This is a page turner from the first line and I can't wait to see what this unusual and delightful couple gets up to next.
October 22, 2018
How to Feel Happy
Every time I read one of Anne Cleveland’s Doyle and Acton stories, I can’t help but feel happy. The interaction of the characters, the charming mangling of vocabulary and sayings, the delightful innocence, tinged with straight wisdom of both characters—it just makes me happy to read it.
Her plots are clever and a good challenge for second-guessers. Her dialogue is so well crafted that one can truly hear the characters speaking.
I love these books and can not wait to devour the next one.
Every time I read one of Anne Cleveland’s Doyle and Acton stories, I can’t help but feel happy. The interaction of the characters, the charming mangling of vocabulary and sayings, the delightful innocence, tinged with straight wisdom of both characters—it just makes me happy to read it.
Her plots are clever and a good challenge for second-guessers. Her dialogue is so well crafted that one can truly hear the characters speaking.
I love these books and can not wait to devour the next one.
November 2, 2018
Another Doyle & Acton mystery that you can't put down.
This is the 8th book in this series & they just keep getting better. This book is set in Ireland so it is a bit of a change from the usual scenes in London, but all the usual characters are there & the mysteries (there is always more than one) are just as intricately interwoven as always. I have been obsessed with with this series from the first book & hope they go on for years to come.
This is the 8th book in this series & they just keep getting better. This book is set in Ireland so it is a bit of a change from the usual scenes in London, but all the usual characters are there & the mysteries (there is always more than one) are just as intricately interwoven as always. I have been obsessed with with this series from the first book & hope they go on for years to come.
November 21, 2018
Love, love this series.
Now I'm going to be wearing a black armband until book 9 comes out! Write quickly Ms Cleeland because after book 9, I'm going to expect book 10, 11 and so on.
The characters ring true with a great ear for language. The author has as especially good ear for the Irish. The plot of Doyle going home was an especially pleasing one with old devils laid to rest that provided good background to the main plot.
Now I'm going to be wearing a black armband until book 9 comes out! Write quickly Ms Cleeland because after book 9, I'm going to expect book 10, 11 and so on.
The characters ring true with a great ear for language. The author has as especially good ear for the Irish. The plot of Doyle going home was an especially pleasing one with old devils laid to rest that provided good background to the main plot.
March 8, 2021
This was another solid read in this series and continued along with a lot of the quirks that I really enjoy concerning the main characters. Acton takes Doyle and their new baby, Edward, to Ireland for both a holiday and to give his wife the chance to reconnect with her past. Of course, with Acton being Acton, nothing is as it seems and Doyle quickly surmises that she's been whisked away from London for reasons not yet clear to her. As per usual, Acton is neck deep in the reason why and she spends the majority of the book getting cryptic messages from supernatural beings (there are two ghosts this time around) and stumbling around trying to find out what Acton's all about while he tries his hardest to keep her oblivious and unintentionally putting her in danger.
I liked the change of scenery from London to Ireland. Since Doyle is the main character and story teller in this series, it was great to see snippets from her past. The only negative with this, however, is that some of the usual characters, such as Williams, don't feature as much (or at all). As is common with this series, there are several plot threads intertwining and leaving the fair Doyle grasping for most of the book. When a known priest turns up dead on the steps of a Dublin police station with a dagger through his eye, the possibility of a revenge killing presents itself. When other murders follow, the aforementioned spite murders, covered by Munoz in the previous book, take centre stage with things not being as they seem. I mean, of course they're not because these books are pretty formulaic and there's always more to the story.
A lot of the literary elements of the series are present in this book: Doyle not knowing what Acton's up to and being concerned over his soul and future redemption, her being left clues by ghosts, her not having a clue what the information she's being given means which causes her to stumble around and try to fall face-first into the solution, Acton's secrecy, etc. If you've read any other books in this series (which you need to, by the way, as they all flow on from each other), you'll definitely get what I mean. The snippets at the start of each chapter are present, but this time they're from an unknown antagonist that wishes harm to both Doyle and baby Edward. There are volatile females from the past causing havoc, the death of clergy, Acton's paying back of debts owed and unknown aspects of Doyle's past up for dissection. The ramifications of the corruption case continue to be felt (which made me want to stab something - just when I think this has been tied off, here it is again). A couple of perpetrators in this book are made abundantly obvious that even I could put it together pretty quickly so the element of surprise was lacking in this book, even though it was still entertaining. I'll be continuing with the next book in the series.
I liked the change of scenery from London to Ireland. Since Doyle is the main character and story teller in this series, it was great to see snippets from her past. The only negative with this, however, is that some of the usual characters, such as Williams, don't feature as much (or at all). As is common with this series, there are several plot threads intertwining and leaving the fair Doyle grasping for most of the book. When a known priest turns up dead on the steps of a Dublin police station with a dagger through his eye, the possibility of a revenge killing presents itself. When other murders follow, the aforementioned spite murders, covered by Munoz in the previous book, take centre stage with things not being as they seem. I mean, of course they're not because these books are pretty formulaic and there's always more to the story.
A lot of the literary elements of the series are present in this book: Doyle not knowing what Acton's up to and being concerned over his soul and future redemption, her being left clues by ghosts, her not having a clue what the information she's being given means which causes her to stumble around and try to fall face-first into the solution, Acton's secrecy, etc. If you've read any other books in this series (which you need to, by the way, as they all flow on from each other), you'll definitely get what I mean. The snippets at the start of each chapter are present, but this time they're from an unknown antagonist that wishes harm to both Doyle and baby Edward. There are volatile females from the past causing havoc, the death of clergy, Acton's paying back of debts owed and unknown aspects of Doyle's past up for dissection. The ramifications of the corruption case continue to be felt (which made me want to stab something - just when I think this has been tied off, here it is again). A couple of perpetrators in this book are made abundantly obvious that even I could put it together pretty quickly so the element of surprise was lacking in this book, even though it was still entertaining. I'll be continuing with the next book in the series.
October 2, 2018
Ebook
Grade: B+
Not a review, just some thoughts for personal reference. Spoilers.
I feel kind of bad enjoying this series as much as I do given how problematic Acton (and others) are with their murderous tendencies. LOL.
In this outing, Acton and Doyle go on vacation in Ireland as a sort of memory tour for Doyle. Naturally, it turns into a busman's holiday right off the bat with their entourage encountering danger and murder
--Someone tries to push Mary and baby Edward off the train. (A)
--Father Gregory from London is murdered on the steps of the Garda. (B)
--Someone has murdered the bishop back in London. (C)
--A woman shows up at Acton's hotel saying she's his GF and demanding to get into his room. (D)
--Someone attacks Gemma when Mary takes the children to feed the ducks. (E)
--Someone tries to kill Doyle and Edward. (F)
I'm probably missing some things, too. All this with Doyle facing memories of her childhood, good and bad. And the cast in Ireland grows when Williams, Tim, and Howard all join the group for reasons mostly only known to Acton.
So,
(A) This was someone acting at the behest of Acton's jealous assistant who wants Doyle (and Edward) out of the way.
(B) This was Nanda who was hiding out in the convent. She and another nun were refugees from the genocide in her homeland, recognized Father Gregory as a member of the enemy tribe, was set on revenge and stabbed him in they eye. Acton covers for her and arranges for her and her young son to return to their country. She'll be joined by the other nun. Tim will not accompany her and ends his relationship with her.
(C) The bishop was part of the sex-slave ring and was killed by Habib (who married Munoz's sister who was a victim of the ring). To cover Habib's involvement, it was put out that the bishop was in a sexual relationship with Father Gregory and was a pedophile to boot.
(D) This was Lady Abby, Howard's ex-fiancee, trying to cause problems.
(E) Also Lady Abby (iirc).
(F) Acton's assistant, who he set up as being an accomplice in the sex-slave ring and she was sent to prison. (And probably needs to be in an asylum.) Acton hired Nazy, an intern with the Garda who had been helping Doyle, as his new assistant.
Whew, these books can be convoluted and they need to be read in order to make any sense out of things. And also to grasp just how cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs everyone is. But in a (mostly) good way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2023
I will start with a disclaimer: if you have not read the earlier books in this series, do not start here! This is a very enjoyable series, but one where each book very much builds upon the ones before it, so you will miss much if you read them out of order. It includes some of the best traits of police procedurals, mixed with some otherworldly aspects and a charming, funny dynamic between the two main characters.
That said, this was another delightful entry in a much enjoyed series. As always, it is written primarily in the first person, and everything, first person or third, is from Doyle's perspective. She and her husband, Acton, are vacationing in Dublin, Ireland, largely out of his desire to take her back to see the city in which she grew up while she is still on maternity leave. There are many sweet scenes with the two of them and their interactions with their new son, Edward.
But of course, murder and mayhem follows them, with Acton trying to shield Doyle from it all and Doyle learning just enough to be suspicious and concerned about how deeply her husband might be involved. And of course, she gets visits in her dreams from ghosts who urge her to help but in such vague ways that they only cause her alarm. The actual plot is surprisingly complex, with the biggest twist not revealed until the final chapters. I really enjoyed it and only wish I could keep myself from reading these so quickly once I pick one up!
That said, this was another delightful entry in a much enjoyed series. As always, it is written primarily in the first person, and everything, first person or third, is from Doyle's perspective. She and her husband, Acton, are vacationing in Dublin, Ireland, largely out of his desire to take her back to see the city in which she grew up while she is still on maternity leave. There are many sweet scenes with the two of them and their interactions with their new son, Edward.
But of course, murder and mayhem follows them, with Acton trying to shield Doyle from it all and Doyle learning just enough to be suspicious and concerned about how deeply her husband might be involved. And of course, she gets visits in her dreams from ghosts who urge her to help but in such vague ways that they only cause her alarm. The actual plot is surprisingly complex, with the biggest twist not revealed until the final chapters. I really enjoyed it and only wish I could keep myself from reading these so quickly once I pick one up!
November 11, 2018
A trip to Dublin with the new baby, Edward, begins one of Cleeland’s most cleverly written plots. It is nice to view Doyle’s former home through her eyes, and equally fine to know that her penchant for speaking to the dead and intuiting the truth in 5e land of 5he living have remained unchanged. Clearly, Acton is never far from a complicated knot of diversions and murder. There were a couple of surprises, even for this reader who tries hard to anticipate new twists. The best surprise of entire tale? The epilogue!!! Well, done, Ms. Cleeland. My habit of counting avoidable errors in the text provided 7 places where an attentive editor should have caught simple ones. I volunteer my services before book 9 is printed.
April 4, 2020
Doyle and Acton are always an enjoyable pair. I love the series but this book wasn't one of my favorites. Kathleen has had her baby, and she, Acton, and baby Edward travel to
Dublin (Kathleen's former home) on vacation. Of course there's a murder or two, and the usual subterfuge supplied by Acton, which keeps Doyle's scalp twitching until she gets at the truth. Doyle's grammatical errors continue to be cute, but it's hard to believe that being raised in Dublin, she did not know that Trinity College had the famous "Book of Kells,", which she calls "Kelts, or whatever that is." Nevertheless I'll go on to the next book because the series is worth reading, even when one book falters a bit, as I believe this one did.
Dublin (Kathleen's former home) on vacation. Of course there's a murder or two, and the usual subterfuge supplied by Acton, which keeps Doyle's scalp twitching until she gets at the truth. Doyle's grammatical errors continue to be cute, but it's hard to believe that being raised in Dublin, she did not know that Trinity College had the famous "Book of Kells,", which she calls "Kelts, or whatever that is." Nevertheless I'll go on to the next book because the series is worth reading, even when one book falters a bit, as I believe this one did.
September 30, 2018
5 stars! Doyle and Acton embark on a visit to Dublin to see where Kathleen grew up and to visit the newly established orphanage within the convent Acton has made substantial donations to...but as is always at the back of her mind Kathleen wonders if something else is afoot. Secretive the man is and on top of trying to winkle out what Acton is hiding this time, acting on instinct alone isn't working nor is her mobile, frustrating man that he is; he's cut Doyle off from the outside world. A murder on the Garda steps of a London priest notwithstanding is certainly not the homecoming Doyle expected. All signs point to the fact she may be called into action to save her husband from the nick!
October 23, 2019
You can never go home
Doyle and Acton have become my newest ‘must read’ series. I enjoy the character interactions as well as the cases. Watching Doyle stumble onto Acton’s very carefully thought out and executed plans is amusing, and seeing her trying to navigated the upper echelons - well, that’s what you get for marrying a peer! - not only in her personal life, but what that has meant for her professional life often has me in complete sympathy with Doyle.
Love how this story went back to Doyles childhood, and also touched a little more on her mother.
Can’t wait to pick up book 9. A real guilty pleasure series.
4 stars ⭐️
Doyle and Acton have become my newest ‘must read’ series. I enjoy the character interactions as well as the cases. Watching Doyle stumble onto Acton’s very carefully thought out and executed plans is amusing, and seeing her trying to navigated the upper echelons - well, that’s what you get for marrying a peer! - not only in her personal life, but what that has meant for her professional life often has me in complete sympathy with Doyle.
Love how this story went back to Doyles childhood, and also touched a little more on her mother.
Can’t wait to pick up book 9. A real guilty pleasure series.
4 stars ⭐️
September 29, 2018
Anne Cleeland writes well crafted books.
This series is so marvelous quirky that it defies easy description. But it works well.
We, once again, have Kathleen trying to figure out what questionable activity her husband is planning so she can stop him, while he is trying to do what he feels he must and wants her clear of it for her safety.
Throw in their new baby, potential murder attempts, actual murders, being in Ireland rather than London, and more, and you have a bit of the mayhem.
It is wonderful. Kathleen is the essence of well done black Irish humor.
This series is so marvelous quirky that it defies easy description. But it works well.
We, once again, have Kathleen trying to figure out what questionable activity her husband is planning so she can stop him, while he is trying to do what he feels he must and wants her clear of it for her safety.
Throw in their new baby, potential murder attempts, actual murders, being in Ireland rather than London, and more, and you have a bit of the mayhem.
It is wonderful. Kathleen is the essence of well done black Irish humor.
July 15, 2019
This series reveals to me that figuring out who did what really is second to my love for the characters--cause Kathleen uses her dreams and her fey abilities to figure out what her husband is up too and I am often out in left field trying to understand what she is talking about--I did however remember the lesson that you do the stuff in the brackets first--Algebra was never my strong suit. I do fear though now that Edward is actually here, he will be used as a pawn in more horrible situations than necessary.
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