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Miss Underhay #4
Murder on the Dance Floor
Kitty Underhay’s dance card is full… of death.
November 1933. Amateur sleuth-cum-dutiful granddaughter Kitty Underhay stifles a sigh of boredom as she attends the annual Hotelier’s Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She hopes the company of ex-army captain Matthew Bryant will enliven the otherwise dull evening. That is, until bullish and overbearing local councillor Harold Everton drops dead into his bowl of consommé.
While the local police are still scrambling for their whistles, Kitty and Matt waste no time leaping into action. Soon they find themselves caught up a dangerous search to uncover who amongst the distinguished guests used cyanide for seasoning?
When their digging throws light on a corruption scandal brewing in the local council involving Everton’s assistant Thomas King, they are sure they’ve cracked the case. But before he can be questioned further, King’s body is found in a smouldering car wreck. Meanwhile, the murderer has made a sinister plan to avoid detection or punishment, and it will lead Kitty and Matt into a dangerous dance with death…
A fast, fun and utterly unputdownable Golden Age cozy murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss.
November 1933. Amateur sleuth-cum-dutiful granddaughter Kitty Underhay stifles a sigh of boredom as she attends the annual Hotelier’s Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She hopes the company of ex-army captain Matthew Bryant will enliven the otherwise dull evening. That is, until bullish and overbearing local councillor Harold Everton drops dead into his bowl of consommé.
While the local police are still scrambling for their whistles, Kitty and Matt waste no time leaping into action. Soon they find themselves caught up a dangerous search to uncover who amongst the distinguished guests used cyanide for seasoning?
When their digging throws light on a corruption scandal brewing in the local council involving Everton’s assistant Thomas King, they are sure they’ve cracked the case. But before he can be questioned further, King’s body is found in a smouldering car wreck. Meanwhile, the murderer has made a sinister plan to avoid detection or punishment, and it will lead Kitty and Matt into a dangerous dance with death…
A fast, fun and utterly unputdownable Golden Age cozy murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2020
1652 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Helena Dixon
31 books299 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 15, 2020
Another delightful episode in the lives of Kitty Underhay and her partner in crime solving, Matt. I am enjoying this whole series very much.
There are the usual murders, heaps of suspects and always a hint of danger for Matt and Kitty. I like that the police are not idiots and also that they are happy to accept information from our clever pair of sleuths. There are some great historical facts in there with the fiction, especially the food. Imagine a restaurant meal of cottage pie followed by jam roll and custard and a pot of tea. The delights of an old fashioned English cuisine.
This was a quick, fun read with characters I want to know more about. I am already looking forward to book 5.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
There are the usual murders, heaps of suspects and always a hint of danger for Matt and Kitty. I like that the police are not idiots and also that they are happy to accept information from our clever pair of sleuths. There are some great historical facts in there with the fiction, especially the food. Imagine a restaurant meal of cottage pie followed by jam roll and custard and a pot of tea. The delights of an old fashioned English cuisine.
This was a quick, fun read with characters I want to know more about. I am already looking forward to book 5.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 21, 2020
With her grandmother unwell, proprietor of the Dolphin Hotel, Kitty Underhay was obliged to attend the annual Hoteliers’ Association dinner in her stead. Accompanied by Captain Matthew Bryant, her partner in crime on previous occasions, Kitty was looking forward to dancing with Matt after dinner. The eight members of Kitty and Matt’s table were a diverse bunch, but local councillor Harold Everton was a well-known boor. When he suddenly died in front of horrified onlookers, little did Kitty and Matt realise that it was the beginning of another case for them to solve.
As Kitty and Matt attempted to help Inspector Greville to find the murderer, another shocking death occurred. Was it an accident – or was it another murder? The race to find answers, along with another mystery Kitty was trying to solve meant the two friends and sleuths were busy indeed.
Murder on the Dance Floor is the 4th in A Miss Underhay Mystery series by Helena Dixon and I loved it once again! Kitty and Matt get themselves into terrible messes, but the entertainment along the way for the reader is excellent. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
As Kitty and Matt attempted to help Inspector Greville to find the murderer, another shocking death occurred. Was it an accident – or was it another murder? The race to find answers, along with another mystery Kitty was trying to solve meant the two friends and sleuths were busy indeed.
Murder on the Dance Floor is the 4th in A Miss Underhay Mystery series by Helena Dixon and I loved it once again! Kitty and Matt get themselves into terrible messes, but the entertainment along the way for the reader is excellent. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2022
This is another engaging episode in this delightful cosy mystery series. Kitty Underhay and her private investigator friend Matthew Bryant are attending a Hotelier's Association annual dinner dance when one of their table, the pompous and obnoxious local councillor, Harold Everton drops dead. Poisoned by cyanide, leaving the police to investigate all at his table including his wife, daughter, nephew and the council lawyer and his wife. Matt and Kitty get caught in investigating why he was murdered and wonder if it had anything to do with his role at the council.
Kitty also has some fresh leads to follow up about her mother's disappearance when she was a child and finally starts to get some answers. Her relationship with Matthew also seems to be improving again after their previous disagreement so hopefully we can look forward to many more co-sleuthing adventures in the future!
Kitty also has some fresh leads to follow up about her mother's disappearance when she was a child and finally starts to get some answers. Her relationship with Matthew also seems to be improving again after their previous disagreement so hopefully we can look forward to many more co-sleuthing adventures in the future!
September 25, 2020
“It’s murder on the dance floor
You’d better not kill the groove
DJ gonna burn this god damn house
right now” 🎶🎶🎶
Am I the only one that upon reading the title of the new Kitty Underhay mystery can’t help humming Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s song?
As the lyrics say, Ms. Dixon did not kill the groove in this new instalment of a series that it’s fast becoming a beloved one for me. Love me some historical cozy mystery!
It’s always such a pleasure to meet back Kitty, Matthew, Alice, Grandma and even Mrs. Craven! It’s like meeting with old friends.
Although this could be read as a stand-alone I seriously recommend starting with book 1, because the serialized plot throughout these novels has some serious development here. And also to learn about Kitty and Matthew’s relationship from the beginning to see how it has evolved. They are so cute together! I love how theirs is an equal partnership and how Matthew encourages Kitty on her investigations, not expecting her to be a wallflower as some people expected women to be at that time.
Although the murder mystery wasn’t my favorite one of the series, I think it was well resolved. It’s always nice to see them work together as a team.
You can call me a visionary, but I think that their Christmas is gonna be everything but uneventful, and I can’t wait to read about it!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
You’d better not kill the groove
DJ gonna burn this god damn house
right now” 🎶🎶🎶
Am I the only one that upon reading the title of the new Kitty Underhay mystery can’t help humming Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s song?
As the lyrics say, Ms. Dixon did not kill the groove in this new instalment of a series that it’s fast becoming a beloved one for me. Love me some historical cozy mystery!
It’s always such a pleasure to meet back Kitty, Matthew, Alice, Grandma and even Mrs. Craven! It’s like meeting with old friends.
Although this could be read as a stand-alone I seriously recommend starting with book 1, because the serialized plot throughout these novels has some serious development here. And also to learn about Kitty and Matthew’s relationship from the beginning to see how it has evolved. They are so cute together! I love how theirs is an equal partnership and how Matthew encourages Kitty on her investigations, not expecting her to be a wallflower as some people expected women to be at that time.
Although the murder mystery wasn’t my favorite one of the series, I think it was well resolved. It’s always nice to see them work together as a team.
You can call me a visionary, but I think that their Christmas is gonna be everything but uneventful, and I can’t wait to read about it!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
‘I believe I’ve met her cousin, Betty, on a few occasions.’ Alice’s mother sniffed. ‘My sister Aggie’s girl. A fast article she is and so sharp she’ll cut herself one of these times.’
You know you cannot do anything around here without the world knowing your business. You were seen, my dear, by one of the staff and now their tongues are wagging at both ends spreading gossip.
The remains of the snow lingered only in a few shady corners, piled up like spilled icing sugar that someone had swept up and forgotten to disperse.
My Review:
While this may be book number four in the series, it was my introduction to Miss Underhay as well as my first sojourn into the wry wit and smooth writing of Helena Dixon. It seems I’m slow on the uptake lately. Each scene flowed like a well-cast episode of Masterpiece Theater. It was an easy, engaging, and light read that kept me interested as well as entertained throughout perusal. The storylines and writing were well contrived, shrewdly paced, and laced with amusing observations and humorous descriptions of the cast of idiosyncratic and oddly intriguing characters.
And it has been a good while since I scored an addition to my Brit Words and Phrases list and I found two new ones tucked into their dialogues with walking out – an old fashioned term for courting or dating; and nine days’ wonder – a hot topic for a short duration, what we currently would say is trending on social media. Although what might have held an enduring interest for nine days then, might last all of nine minutes now due to our vastly diminished attention spans.
‘I believe I’ve met her cousin, Betty, on a few occasions.’ Alice’s mother sniffed. ‘My sister Aggie’s girl. A fast article she is and so sharp she’ll cut herself one of these times.’
You know you cannot do anything around here without the world knowing your business. You were seen, my dear, by one of the staff and now their tongues are wagging at both ends spreading gossip.
The remains of the snow lingered only in a few shady corners, piled up like spilled icing sugar that someone had swept up and forgotten to disperse.
My Review:
While this may be book number four in the series, it was my introduction to Miss Underhay as well as my first sojourn into the wry wit and smooth writing of Helena Dixon. It seems I’m slow on the uptake lately. Each scene flowed like a well-cast episode of Masterpiece Theater. It was an easy, engaging, and light read that kept me interested as well as entertained throughout perusal. The storylines and writing were well contrived, shrewdly paced, and laced with amusing observations and humorous descriptions of the cast of idiosyncratic and oddly intriguing characters.
And it has been a good while since I scored an addition to my Brit Words and Phrases list and I found two new ones tucked into their dialogues with walking out – an old fashioned term for courting or dating; and nine days’ wonder – a hot topic for a short duration, what we currently would say is trending on social media. Although what might have held an enduring interest for nine days then, might last all of nine minutes now due to our vastly diminished attention spans.
Read
June 18, 2024This is book 4 in the Miss Underhay series and finally gives some answers regarding Kitty's missing mother Elowed, which has been a thread in the prior books.
The main subject of the story is an unlikeable councillor that dies suddenly at a function that Kitty and her 'friend' Matt are attending. They are seated at the same table as the councillor and it soon becomes apparent that many people have an axe to grind with the councillor.
An intriguing and well told story without the graphic forensics that many murder mysteries seem to have these days.
The main subject of the story is an unlikeable councillor that dies suddenly at a function that Kitty and her 'friend' Matt are attending. They are seated at the same table as the councillor and it soon becomes apparent that many people have an axe to grind with the councillor.
An intriguing and well told story without the graphic forensics that many murder mysteries seem to have these days.
October 24, 2020
Murder on the Dance Floor is the fourth instalment in the Miss Kitty Underhay Mystery series, set in 1930s Torbay, Devon. It's preferable, but certainly not a necessity, to have read the preceding books before diving into this as the main thread of the plot and investigation is self-contained and enough background is given on the characters to bring new readers up to speed. As autumn turns to winter in the coastal town of Torbay, Kitty Underhay is heading out in the increasingly damp and foggy conditions in order to attend the annual Hoteliers Association Dinner Dance at the Imperial Hotel. Her grandmother Mrs Treadwell has requested her to represent both herself and The Dolphin Hotel at the ball. Accompanying her is her friend, and on/off lover, Captain Matthew Bryant and they just happen to have been seated at the same table as one of the most obnoxious and disliked diners, Councillor Harold Everton, and his wife, Marigold. After ingesting a packet of indigestion relief Everton suddenly slumps over onto the table dead. Matt is under the impression that it could be related to some underhand tactics concerning council planning applications, which Everton had just become aware of.
Meanwhile, Kitty continues to dig into the disappearance of her mother, Elowed, in June 1916, when she was just a child. Father Lamb delivers a box replete with photographs and newspapers clippings allowing Kitty to eventually learn the circumstances around the vanishing act. This is a compelling, captivating and thoroughly entertaining cosy with a large pool of suspects due to Everton being universally hated in the local area; this is clever as it makes it almost impossible to guess who the actual culprit is as there are many people with both motive and opportunity to tamper with the sachets as they were accessible to anyone. The 1930s period in which it is set became known as the Golden Age of Detective Fiction and the atmosphere Dixon creates feels very much like being transported back in time; the era was so adeptly portrayed. With a superb plot, engaging characters and enough twists, turns and intrigue to satisfy even the most demanding crime reader, this is another excellent addition to the series. Recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Meanwhile, Kitty continues to dig into the disappearance of her mother, Elowed, in June 1916, when she was just a child. Father Lamb delivers a box replete with photographs and newspapers clippings allowing Kitty to eventually learn the circumstances around the vanishing act. This is a compelling, captivating and thoroughly entertaining cosy with a large pool of suspects due to Everton being universally hated in the local area; this is clever as it makes it almost impossible to guess who the actual culprit is as there are many people with both motive and opportunity to tamper with the sachets as they were accessible to anyone. The 1930s period in which it is set became known as the Golden Age of Detective Fiction and the atmosphere Dixon creates feels very much like being transported back in time; the era was so adeptly portrayed. With a superb plot, engaging characters and enough twists, turns and intrigue to satisfy even the most demanding crime reader, this is another excellent addition to the series. Recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
October 29, 2020
Kitty Underhay has proved herself to be quite the amateur detective. Time and again, murder and other serious crimes prove to follow her wherever she goes. When Kitty is attending a dinner in place of her grandmother, someone drops dead after consuming a bowl of soup. There is no way Kitty could ignore what is going on. Along with dear friend and love interest Matthew Bryant, Kitty begins looking for answers.
It doesn't take Kitty and Matt long to recognize the cause of death and who they think could be the murderer, but a wrench is definitely thrown into the plans when another murder soon takes place. Will the pair be able to find out who is committing these murders, all the while keeping free from danger themselves? Political corruption seems to be behind these murders so Kitty and Matt leave no stone unturned. Along the way, Kitty continues her search for answers about the disappearance of her mother from years ago.
Having read the three previous books in the series, I am well acquainted with Kitty and Matt. However, each book has its own story so these could serve as standalone novels. However, as someone who truly enjoys continuity, I think other readers would enjoy this book more by reading this series in order. The 1930s time period, along with it being a cozy mystery, makes this book and the previous books delightful reads. The mix of historical fiction along with the mystery contained makes for a very good book that is rich with atmosphere and relatable characters. As Kitty and Matt become even closer, I am eager for the next book in this engaging series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
It doesn't take Kitty and Matt long to recognize the cause of death and who they think could be the murderer, but a wrench is definitely thrown into the plans when another murder soon takes place. Will the pair be able to find out who is committing these murders, all the while keeping free from danger themselves? Political corruption seems to be behind these murders so Kitty and Matt leave no stone unturned. Along the way, Kitty continues her search for answers about the disappearance of her mother from years ago.
Having read the three previous books in the series, I am well acquainted with Kitty and Matt. However, each book has its own story so these could serve as standalone novels. However, as someone who truly enjoys continuity, I think other readers would enjoy this book more by reading this series in order. The 1930s time period, along with it being a cozy mystery, makes this book and the previous books delightful reads. The mix of historical fiction along with the mystery contained makes for a very good book that is rich with atmosphere and relatable characters. As Kitty and Matt become even closer, I am eager for the next book in this engaging series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
January 6, 2023
This is the fourth entry in the Miss Underhay mysteries, set in 1933. Kitty Underhay is still running her grandmother’s hotel, the Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth. As the story opens, Kitty, her grandmother, and Kitty’s friend/beau Matt are having tea with a priest they met in the last book. They hope he may have information about Kitty’s mother, who disappeared when Kitty was a young girl, 17 years previously.
After the priest leaves, Kitty’s grandmother falls ill, and charges Kitty with taking her place at a large ball in a neighboring city, with Matt as her escort. The ball seems like a good place for Matt and Kitty to get closer, but as luck would have it, someone dies under mysterious circumstances before the two ever get the chance to dance!
The victim was a thoroughly disagreeable person (my favorite type of victim in a murder mystery), and there are a host of potential suspects. Matt and Kitty quickly begin to investigate the murder and discover most of the potential suspects have secrets of their own. They also continue to pursue leads regarding the disappearance of Kitty’s mother.
I like both Kitty and Matt, and how they’ve developed over the series. The two are still feeling out their personal relationship after some difficulties a few books back. Each time they seem to get closer, something interrupts their chance to talk about their feelings.
The author is slowly building up an interesting secondary cast of characters surrounding Kitty and Matt, from Alice the hotel maid (and sometimes lady’s maid to Kitty) to police Inspector Greville to Mr. Potter the taxi driver to Mrs. Craven, the annoying friend of Kitty’s grandmother. They never take over the story, but across the books come to have additional characteristics, and sometimes grow.
I enjoyed the mysteries presented in this story, as well as the character development, and would rate it a B/B+, so four stars here. I definitely look forward to reading more in the series.
After the priest leaves, Kitty’s grandmother falls ill, and charges Kitty with taking her place at a large ball in a neighboring city, with Matt as her escort. The ball seems like a good place for Matt and Kitty to get closer, but as luck would have it, someone dies under mysterious circumstances before the two ever get the chance to dance!
The victim was a thoroughly disagreeable person (my favorite type of victim in a murder mystery), and there are a host of potential suspects. Matt and Kitty quickly begin to investigate the murder and discover most of the potential suspects have secrets of their own. They also continue to pursue leads regarding the disappearance of Kitty’s mother.
I like both Kitty and Matt, and how they’ve developed over the series. The two are still feeling out their personal relationship after some difficulties a few books back. Each time they seem to get closer, something interrupts their chance to talk about their feelings.
The author is slowly building up an interesting secondary cast of characters surrounding Kitty and Matt, from Alice the hotel maid (and sometimes lady’s maid to Kitty) to police Inspector Greville to Mr. Potter the taxi driver to Mrs. Craven, the annoying friend of Kitty’s grandmother. They never take over the story, but across the books come to have additional characteristics, and sometimes grow.
I enjoyed the mysteries presented in this story, as well as the character development, and would rate it a B/B+, so four stars here. I definitely look forward to reading more in the series.
February 11, 2025
Приятно неангажиращо продължение на поредицата след доста по-добрата във всяко отношение "Убийство в театъра". Кити Ъндърхей не само участва в разследването на отравянето на градски съветник по време на бал, но и прави решаващи разкрития по случая, който много повече я интересува - изчезването на майка ѝ. Имаме лек напредък и на любовния фронт с Мат, така че човек затваря последната страница сравнително удовлетворен.
Дотук цялата поредица е приятна и много подходяща за плажно четиво - държи те достатъчно заинтересуван, за да се напечеш добре на слънцето, но недостатъчно увлечен, че да изгориш.
Дотук цялата поредица е приятна и много подходяща за плажно четиво - държи те достатъчно заинтересуван, за да се напечеш добре на слънцето, но недостатъчно увлечен, че да изгориш.
February 7, 2024
Murder on the Dance Floor by Helena Dixon is the 4th book in the Miss Underhay Mystery series. Kitty Underhay is attending the annual Hotelier's Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her ill grandmother, when local councillor Harold Everton is poisoned at their table.. An excellent light cozy mystery where we see Kitty and Captain Bryant take the next step in their relationship. This book also holds more answers for Kitty to her mother's disappearance. Delightful and entertaining and I'm looking forward to their next adventures.
June 17, 2021
These books are 10% murder, 20% flirting between lead characters, 20% eating scones and cakes, and 50% drinking tea and in this one the tea was poisoned...so uncivilized.
October 28, 2020
Another delightful installment in this cozy mystery series set in Devon, England. This 4th features Miss Kitty Underhay, whose grandmother owns the Dolphin Hotel, in her latest adventure.
It's autumn, 1933, and Kitty is attending the annual Hotelier's Association Dinner and Dance with her love interest, Captain Matthew Bryant, when one of the guests at their table collapses and dies. Poisoned. Councillor Harold Everton was known as an honest businessman, but soon there are hints of fraud and bribery in the local council. Who wanted him dead and why? As Kitty and Bryant dig around trying to find clues to solve the case, other trouble is brewing. In addition, Kitty continues her quest to find out what happened to her mother who went missing 17 years ago.
Fast and fun, I really enjoy this period in history and love all the details the author interjects to make the era come alive on the page. I've followed this series from the beginning and it's one of my favorites in this genre. I look forward to seeing what's next for Kitty and Matthew.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
It's autumn, 1933, and Kitty is attending the annual Hotelier's Association Dinner and Dance with her love interest, Captain Matthew Bryant, when one of the guests at their table collapses and dies. Poisoned. Councillor Harold Everton was known as an honest businessman, but soon there are hints of fraud and bribery in the local council. Who wanted him dead and why? As Kitty and Bryant dig around trying to find clues to solve the case, other trouble is brewing. In addition, Kitty continues her quest to find out what happened to her mother who went missing 17 years ago.
Fast and fun, I really enjoy this period in history and love all the details the author interjects to make the era come alive on the page. I've followed this series from the beginning and it's one of my favorites in this genre. I look forward to seeing what's next for Kitty and Matthew.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
January 4, 2024
This series by Helena Dixon is a favorite of mine and I happen to be a big fan of this type of cozy mysteries. The books follow the life of Kitty Underhay as she becomes involved in murders and with the help of the handsome Captain Bryant tries to solve them. In this book, the two attend the hoteliers' association's annual dinner. Before they can dance together, however, disaster strikes. A man from their table dies before their eyes and all the clues point to it being murder. The formidable tandem will try to find the killer, while Kitty herself will find herself closer to finding answers to her mother's disappearance.
And here, as in the previous two books (I say two, because I'm about to read the third, it's on my Christmas list), the author has once again successfully recreated the retro atmosphere of 1933. This time the murder happens with a bang in front of many witnesses, which I quite liked. I had two guesses as to who the perpetrator might be, and one of them turned out to be true, but I was left wondering about the motives. I liked that in the background of this mystery, the two main characters are also struggling with their past, each trying to deal with it as best they can. We now have more clarity about Kitty's mother's disappearance here, but I have a feeling there will be some sort of plot twist in one of the next installments.
Against the background of the atmosphere and the wonderfully subtle British sense of humor, we also enjoy the closeness of Matthew and Kitty. It is obvious that they are not indifferent to each other, and here we already have more personal moments of them. Admittedly, I wished there was some kind of love thread in the books, but it wasn't intrusive, and I wasn't disappointed. I definitely recommend the author's books and I know that I personally always read them with great pleasure.
And here, as in the previous two books (I say two, because I'm about to read the third, it's on my Christmas list), the author has once again successfully recreated the retro atmosphere of 1933. This time the murder happens with a bang in front of many witnesses, which I quite liked. I had two guesses as to who the perpetrator might be, and one of them turned out to be true, but I was left wondering about the motives. I liked that in the background of this mystery, the two main characters are also struggling with their past, each trying to deal with it as best they can. We now have more clarity about Kitty's mother's disappearance here, but I have a feeling there will be some sort of plot twist in one of the next installments.
Against the background of the atmosphere and the wonderfully subtle British sense of humor, we also enjoy the closeness of Matthew and Kitty. It is obvious that they are not indifferent to each other, and here we already have more personal moments of them. Admittedly, I wished there was some kind of love thread in the books, but it wasn't intrusive, and I wasn't disappointed. I definitely recommend the author's books and I know that I personally always read them with great pleasure.
October 31, 2020
I have read three of the four Kitty Underhay novels and enjoyed them all. It was really great to see Kitty's personal story move along. This is a fascinating thread involving her relationships with her grandmother (who owns the hotel they both live in) and Matt ( PI, her friend and love interest)..
When it comes to the murder mystery it is evident that things are just not what they seem. And the more Kitty and Matt dig, the more complicated it gets.The motivation behind the murder was intriguing indeed.
Once again the characters are thoughtfully written. Some are highly likeable while others are quite the opposite, I really struggled to have sympathy for the victims and yet, in the end.... Well done Helena!
I will be keeping and eye out for the next in this very engaging #cozymurdermystery series. Quite wait to see just what Kitty and Matt get up to next time.
With thanks to #NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for my free advanced reader copy to review in exchange for an honest opinion
When it comes to the murder mystery it is evident that things are just not what they seem. And the more Kitty and Matt dig, the more complicated it gets.The motivation behind the murder was intriguing indeed.
Once again the characters are thoughtfully written. Some are highly likeable while others are quite the opposite, I really struggled to have sympathy for the victims and yet, in the end.... Well done Helena!
I will be keeping and eye out for the next in this very engaging #cozymurdermystery series. Quite wait to see just what Kitty and Matt get up to next time.
With thanks to #NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for my free advanced reader copy to review in exchange for an honest opinion
January 16, 2024
За мен това е най-добрата книга от поредицата досега! Изключително много ми хареса!
Освен, че криминалната загадка беше добре заплетена, накрая имаше разкритие на не един, а два случая. Една конкретна ситуация определено ме изненада доста - не очаквах такова развитие. (Няма да разкривам коя, за да не издам нещо.)
Кити ми става все по-любима героиня - олицетворение на младата модерна жена, която иска да разпери криле, да бъде свободна и самостоятелна. Взаимоотношенията им с Мат се задълбочиха сериозно и тук ще вметна, че ни се разкри малко повече за миналото на Мат - обстоятелство, което досега не беше известно. Поздравявам авторката за начина, по който е успяла да пресъздаде любовната динамика между мъжа и жената от началото на 20 век в Англия. Обожавам това бавно джентълменско ухажване от едни отминали, но толкова романтични времена.
Като заключение ще кажа, че ако "Убийство в театъра" леко ме разочарова, то "Убийство на дансинга" категорично ме "запали" отново по поредицата. Тръпна да разбера какво очаква героите и се надявам от СофтПрес да побързат с издаването на следващите книги!
Освен, че криминалната загадка беше добре заплетена, накрая имаше разкритие на не един, а два случая. Една конкретна ситуация определено ме изненада доста - не очаквах такова развитие. (Няма да разкривам коя, за да не издам нещо.)
Кити ми става все по-любима героиня - олицетворение на младата модерна жена, която иска да разпери криле, да бъде свободна и самостоятелна. Взаимоотношенията им с Мат се задълбочиха сериозно и тук ще вметна, че ни се разкри малко повече за миналото на Мат - обстоятелство, което досега не беше известно. Поздравявам авторката за начина, по който е успяла да пресъздаде любовната динамика между мъжа и жената от началото на 20 век в Англия. Обожавам това бавно джентълменско ухажване от едни отминали, но толкова романтични времена.
Като заключение ще кажа, че ако "Убийство в театъра" леко ме разочарова, то "Убийство на дансинга" категорично ме "запали" отново по поредицата. Тръпна да разбера какво очаква героите и се надявам от СофтПрес да побързат с издаването на следващите книги!
October 29, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the fourth book in the A Miss Underhay mystery series by Helena Dixon.
This book reads like it is set in the twentieth century. My meaning by that is that it is a very easy book to navigate and get through. Sometimes historicals set in this century are hard to muddle through. There are the normal 30’s aspects of the text that bring you into the setting that surprise you and make you read on.
Kitty Underhay and Captain Matt Bryant are drawn into a mystery while at a dinner party when the host is poisoned with cyanide. They leap to action and discover a controversy at the local level of government.
This is definitely a fun historical mystery to follow. I always enjoy seeing what Miss Underhay is up to today.
If you love a good historical cozy mystery, definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fourth book in the A Miss Underhay mystery series by Helena Dixon.
This book reads like it is set in the twentieth century. My meaning by that is that it is a very easy book to navigate and get through. Sometimes historicals set in this century are hard to muddle through. There are the normal 30’s aspects of the text that bring you into the setting that surprise you and make you read on.
Kitty Underhay and Captain Matt Bryant are drawn into a mystery while at a dinner party when the host is poisoned with cyanide. They leap to action and discover a controversy at the local level of government.
This is definitely a fun historical mystery to follow. I always enjoy seeing what Miss Underhay is up to today.
If you love a good historical cozy mystery, definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
June 10, 2022
Kitty attends a dinner on behalf of her grandmother, accompanied by Matt, and is seated at a table of people neither of them know. It isn't long before one of the other guests collapses and so begins another investigation for the couple. As the police carry out their investigation inevitably the most obvious culprits turn out to be almost, if not completely, innocent.
Meantime Kitty's search for answers into her mother's disappearance moves on apace.
Meantime Kitty's search for answers into her mother's disappearance moves on apace.
November 8, 2020
Title: Murder on the Dance Floor
Author: Helena Dixon
Publication Day: Oct 28th 2020
Description:
Kitty Underhay’s dance card is full… of death.
November 1933. Amateur sleuth-cum-dutiful granddaughter Kitty Underhay stifles a sigh of boredom as she attends the annual Hoteliers' Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She hopes the company of ex-army captain Matthew Bryant will enliven the otherwise dull evening. That is, until bullish and overbearing local councillor Harold Everton drops dead into his bowl of consommé.
While the local police are still scrambling for their whistles, Kitty and Matt waste no time leaping into action. Soon they find themselves caught up a dangerous search to uncover who amongst the distinguished guests used cyanide for seasoning?
When their digging throws light on a corruption scandal brewing in the local council involving Everton’s assistant Thomas King, they are sure they’ve cracked the case. But before he can be questioned further, King’s body is found in a smouldering car wreck. Meanwhile, the murderer has made a sinister plan to avoid detection or punishment, and it will lead Kitty and Matt into a dangerous dance with death…
A fast, fun and utterly unputdownable Golden Age cozy murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Murder On The Dance Floor' by Helena Dixon.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'A Miss Underhay Mystery' series. Although this book is the fourth in a series it can easily be read as a standalone and any references to events in previous books are explained in just the right amount of detail.
I was originally drawn to this book by its colourful cover and intriguing sounding blurb. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 23 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Devon, UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited Devon on many occasions including this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and one of the main protagonists is Kitty Underhay. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book was very well written and I do believe some research went into it as everything linked correctly in with the era it was set in. It is a real bug bear for me when I read a historical novel and the author hasn't done their research and gets basic information mixed up so well done Helena!! It was very well written and I found the synopsis and the cover fitted the storyline perfectly, The descriptions were great and it really felt as if I was in the story.
The storyline was very interesting and quite fast paced. There was the main storyline based on the murder of the Councillor Harold but you also had the side storyline of the search for Kitty's mother which is revealed closer to the end. I really enjoyed that it was set in the past and the storyline really suited that. It really is a nice cozy mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. At no point did I suspect the person who turned out to be the murderer so a huge well done there Helena!!! I have read many a mystery and find that I am working out the killer quicker every time and there's nothing worse than working out who did what when your need even half way through a book. Not only is this quite a suspense and action filled mystery but there was just the right amount of quirkiness, laughter and romance to give it a nice mix!!!
I became really invested in the characters and really enjoyed Kitty and her fantastic and quirky personality!!! In fact all of the characters had their own individual personalities which worked really well with each other. The only fault I did find is that sometimes the characters first names were used and at other times their surnames, as there are quite a few characters this did cause me some confusion at times. However, I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next 'episode' of Miss Underhay's adventures which I'm sure will be just as exciting as this one!!
Overall a perfect mix of mystery, crime, romance, laughter and quirkiness which kept me turning the pages late at night!!
Genres covered in this novel include Historical, Cozy Mystery, Murder Mystery and Crime among others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a nice easy mystery to read while curled up in front of the fire.
260 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MurderOnTheDanceFloor #Bookouture #HelenaDixon #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@HelenaDixon @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Nell Dixon was born and continues to live in the Black Country. Married to the same man for over thirty-five years she has three daughters, a cactus called Spike, a crazy cockapoo and a tank of tropical fish. She is allergic to adhesives, apples, tinsel and housework. Her addictions of choice are coffee and reality TV. She was winner of The Romance Prize in 2007 with her book Marrying Max, and winner of Love Story of the Year 2010 with her book, Animal Instincts. She also writes historical 1930's set cozy crime as Helena Dixon.
Author Social Media Links:
Website: http://www.nelldixon.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nell.dixon
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NellDixon
Buy Links: https://geni.us/B08BV2V69QSocial
Author: Helena Dixon
Publication Day: Oct 28th 2020
Description:
Kitty Underhay’s dance card is full… of death.
November 1933. Amateur sleuth-cum-dutiful granddaughter Kitty Underhay stifles a sigh of boredom as she attends the annual Hoteliers' Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She hopes the company of ex-army captain Matthew Bryant will enliven the otherwise dull evening. That is, until bullish and overbearing local councillor Harold Everton drops dead into his bowl of consommé.
While the local police are still scrambling for their whistles, Kitty and Matt waste no time leaping into action. Soon they find themselves caught up a dangerous search to uncover who amongst the distinguished guests used cyanide for seasoning?
When their digging throws light on a corruption scandal brewing in the local council involving Everton’s assistant Thomas King, they are sure they’ve cracked the case. But before he can be questioned further, King’s body is found in a smouldering car wreck. Meanwhile, the murderer has made a sinister plan to avoid detection or punishment, and it will lead Kitty and Matt into a dangerous dance with death…
A fast, fun and utterly unputdownable Golden Age cozy murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Murder On The Dance Floor' by Helena Dixon.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'A Miss Underhay Mystery' series. Although this book is the fourth in a series it can easily be read as a standalone and any references to events in previous books are explained in just the right amount of detail.
I was originally drawn to this book by its colourful cover and intriguing sounding blurb. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 23 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Devon, UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited Devon on many occasions including this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and one of the main protagonists is Kitty Underhay. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book was very well written and I do believe some research went into it as everything linked correctly in with the era it was set in. It is a real bug bear for me when I read a historical novel and the author hasn't done their research and gets basic information mixed up so well done Helena!! It was very well written and I found the synopsis and the cover fitted the storyline perfectly, The descriptions were great and it really felt as if I was in the story.
The storyline was very interesting and quite fast paced. There was the main storyline based on the murder of the Councillor Harold but you also had the side storyline of the search for Kitty's mother which is revealed closer to the end. I really enjoyed that it was set in the past and the storyline really suited that. It really is a nice cozy mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. At no point did I suspect the person who turned out to be the murderer so a huge well done there Helena!!! I have read many a mystery and find that I am working out the killer quicker every time and there's nothing worse than working out who did what when your need even half way through a book. Not only is this quite a suspense and action filled mystery but there was just the right amount of quirkiness, laughter and romance to give it a nice mix!!!
I became really invested in the characters and really enjoyed Kitty and her fantastic and quirky personality!!! In fact all of the characters had their own individual personalities which worked really well with each other. The only fault I did find is that sometimes the characters first names were used and at other times their surnames, as there are quite a few characters this did cause me some confusion at times. However, I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next 'episode' of Miss Underhay's adventures which I'm sure will be just as exciting as this one!!
Overall a perfect mix of mystery, crime, romance, laughter and quirkiness which kept me turning the pages late at night!!
Genres covered in this novel include Historical, Cozy Mystery, Murder Mystery and Crime among others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a nice easy mystery to read while curled up in front of the fire.
260 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MurderOnTheDanceFloor #Bookouture #HelenaDixon #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@HelenaDixon @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Nell Dixon was born and continues to live in the Black Country. Married to the same man for over thirty-five years she has three daughters, a cactus called Spike, a crazy cockapoo and a tank of tropical fish. She is allergic to adhesives, apples, tinsel and housework. Her addictions of choice are coffee and reality TV. She was winner of The Romance Prize in 2007 with her book Marrying Max, and winner of Love Story of the Year 2010 with her book, Animal Instincts. She also writes historical 1930's set cozy crime as Helena Dixon.
Author Social Media Links:
Website: http://www.nelldixon.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nell.dixon
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NellDixon
Buy Links: https://geni.us/B08BV2V69QSocial
October 25, 2020
4.5 Stars
November 1933. Amateur sleuth-cum-dutiful granddaughter Kitty Underhay stifles a sigh of boredom as she attends the annual Hoteliers' Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She hopes the company of ex-army captain Matthew Bryant will enliven the otherwise dull evening. That is, until bullish and overbearing local councillor Harold Everton drops dead into his bowl of consommé. Kitty and Matt waste no time leaping into action.
When their digging throws light on a corruption scandal brewing in the local council involving Everton’s assistant Thomas King, they are sure they’ve cracked the case. But before he can be questioned further, King’s body is found in a smouldering car wreck. Meanwhile, the ongoing mystery about Kitty’s mother throws up some more clues.
Another delightful cosy mystery, this is the fourth book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own there are a couple of ongoing threads which move forward in this book. The mysterious disappearance of Elowed is nearer to being solved when Kitty receives a box of paper cuttings. also the budding romance between Kitty & Mat reaches a pivotal point . A well written story with strong characters. There are plenty of red herrings & twists and turns before the murderer is found. I'm loving the series & eagerly await the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 1933. Amateur sleuth-cum-dutiful granddaughter Kitty Underhay stifles a sigh of boredom as she attends the annual Hoteliers' Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She hopes the company of ex-army captain Matthew Bryant will enliven the otherwise dull evening. That is, until bullish and overbearing local councillor Harold Everton drops dead into his bowl of consommé. Kitty and Matt waste no time leaping into action.
When their digging throws light on a corruption scandal brewing in the local council involving Everton’s assistant Thomas King, they are sure they’ve cracked the case. But before he can be questioned further, King’s body is found in a smouldering car wreck. Meanwhile, the ongoing mystery about Kitty’s mother throws up some more clues.
Another delightful cosy mystery, this is the fourth book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own there are a couple of ongoing threads which move forward in this book. The mysterious disappearance of Elowed is nearer to being solved when Kitty receives a box of paper cuttings. also the budding romance between Kitty & Mat reaches a pivotal point . A well written story with strong characters. There are plenty of red herrings & twists and turns before the murderer is found. I'm loving the series & eagerly await the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 3, 2021
Gripping...Loved every minute of it
It's my first time reading this author, and I'm glad I discovered her! I fell in love with Kitty and Matt, as well as the other cast of characters. I've already downloaded the rest of the books in the series.
Excellently paced and with just the right tension. Fans of Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries would love this book. Highly recommended!
It's my first time reading this author, and I'm glad I discovered her! I fell in love with Kitty and Matt, as well as the other cast of characters. I've already downloaded the rest of the books in the series.
Excellently paced and with just the right tension. Fans of Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries would love this book. Highly recommended!
February 18, 2025
When hotelier and amateur detective Kitty Underhay is invited to a boring dinner and dance for the local hoteliers’ association, you know it will be anything but quiet. In ‘Murder on the Dance Floor,’ fourth in this 1930s-set sleuthing series by Helena Dixon, there are two mysteries to solve.
The head of Exeter Chamber of Commerce, Councillor Harold Everton, is a martyr to indigestion so when – after the three-course dinner, coffee and petits fours – discomfort strikes, his wife does what she always does. Marigold takes a sachet of powders from her handbag. Harold mixes the contents with water and swallows it in one gulp. He drops dead at the dinner table as diners around them are dancing to the music of the Imperial Hotel’s dance band.
Immediate suspects are the councillor’s fellow guests at the table including Kitty and Captain Matthew Bryant, her friend and owner of Torbay Private Investigative Services. Also present are the Everton’s daughter, Mr Everton’s nephew, his solicitor and his wife, and a pair of local hoteliers. Matt is troubled that the councillor may have been about to employ his services. When meeting Mr Everton days earlier, he had requested Matt’s business card. ‘It must have been a delicate or personal matter, or he would have involved the police.’ Matt and Kitty spring into action, asking questions, gathering information and, as usual, making a nuisance of themselves. Unfortunately, the murderer notices their investigations and they find themselves in danger again.
Meanwhile Kitty has new clues to follow up regarding the disappearance of her mother in June 1916. Could a map of medieval underground passages beneath Exeter’s streets prove helpful. Is a disreputable pub called The Glass Bottle at the heart of the secret? And why would her mother Elowed have gone to such a dangerous part of the city?
The detection progresses at a brisk pace along with the underlying question of whether Matt and Kitty will ever get around to discussing the possibility of ‘walking out together.’ This theme works well because Dixon tells the story from Kitty and Matt’s alternating viewpoints, neatly showing up the misunderstandings, minor grudges, jealousies and secrets.
Reasons to keep reading the series? First, Kitty is an independent heroine whose unpredictable and determined behaviour adds charm and tension to the storyline. Two, Kitty and Matt’s relationship is like some sort of romantic two-step, one step forwards, one step back. Third, the cast of local characters whose personalities become clearer as the series progresses. These include irritating gossip Mrs Carver, whose annoying stories are always outrageous sometimes accurate. The cake-loving detective inspector Greville. The car-mad Doctor Carter who drives too fast. And Alice Miller, housemaid at the Dolphin who has already proven herself a worthy accomplice in Kitty’s detections. It’s a great ensemble cast.
There are to date 18 books in the series and I’ve only read four. Next is ‘Murder in the Bell Tower.’
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
The head of Exeter Chamber of Commerce, Councillor Harold Everton, is a martyr to indigestion so when – after the three-course dinner, coffee and petits fours – discomfort strikes, his wife does what she always does. Marigold takes a sachet of powders from her handbag. Harold mixes the contents with water and swallows it in one gulp. He drops dead at the dinner table as diners around them are dancing to the music of the Imperial Hotel’s dance band.
Immediate suspects are the councillor’s fellow guests at the table including Kitty and Captain Matthew Bryant, her friend and owner of Torbay Private Investigative Services. Also present are the Everton’s daughter, Mr Everton’s nephew, his solicitor and his wife, and a pair of local hoteliers. Matt is troubled that the councillor may have been about to employ his services. When meeting Mr Everton days earlier, he had requested Matt’s business card. ‘It must have been a delicate or personal matter, or he would have involved the police.’ Matt and Kitty spring into action, asking questions, gathering information and, as usual, making a nuisance of themselves. Unfortunately, the murderer notices their investigations and they find themselves in danger again.
Meanwhile Kitty has new clues to follow up regarding the disappearance of her mother in June 1916. Could a map of medieval underground passages beneath Exeter’s streets prove helpful. Is a disreputable pub called The Glass Bottle at the heart of the secret? And why would her mother Elowed have gone to such a dangerous part of the city?
The detection progresses at a brisk pace along with the underlying question of whether Matt and Kitty will ever get around to discussing the possibility of ‘walking out together.’ This theme works well because Dixon tells the story from Kitty and Matt’s alternating viewpoints, neatly showing up the misunderstandings, minor grudges, jealousies and secrets.
Reasons to keep reading the series? First, Kitty is an independent heroine whose unpredictable and determined behaviour adds charm and tension to the storyline. Two, Kitty and Matt’s relationship is like some sort of romantic two-step, one step forwards, one step back. Third, the cast of local characters whose personalities become clearer as the series progresses. These include irritating gossip Mrs Carver, whose annoying stories are always outrageous sometimes accurate. The cake-loving detective inspector Greville. The car-mad Doctor Carter who drives too fast. And Alice Miller, housemaid at the Dolphin who has already proven herself a worthy accomplice in Kitty’s detections. It’s a great ensemble cast.
There are to date 18 books in the series and I’ve only read four. Next is ‘Murder in the Bell Tower.’
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
October 9, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "Murder On The Dance Floor", the 4th book in the Miss Kitty Underhay series. Once more Ms. Dixon has written a brilliant addition to this series.
The story is set in November 1933, Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell asks her to represent her and the Dolphin Hotel at the Hoteliers Dinner Dance being held at The Imperial Hotel. Kitty and Alice Miller (who has acted as her lady's maid and chaperone during several cases) are staying over at the hotel, while Captain Matthew Bryant will be Kitty's escort for the event.
Seated at their table are Councillor Harold Everton and his wife Marigold, and her daughter Daphne, his nephew Thomas King, Ivor Stilitoe and his wife Gladys. The owners of The Conway County House Hotel Mrs. Lavinia Braddock and her brother Clive Hendricks while not originally seated at their table are somehow switched to be there.
Councillor Everton had wanted to speak to Matt about something but he never had the chance. After taking a sachet for his indigestion, he slumps over dead on the table. Since it seems everyone had access to his sachets, it could have been anyone at the table.
Matt believes the murder of Councillor Everton is related to planning council applications. Someone was making money on promises regarding applications going through and then they're refused. Inspector Greville and Doctor Carter are also on the case.
As in previous books Kitty continues on the trail of what happened to her mother Slowed when she disappeared in June 1916. Father Lamb brings her a box that just before Jack Dawkins insisted be delivered to Kitty. Inside are some photos and newspaper clippings. These lead Kitty to the Glass Bottle Public House - a rather seedy place in a questionable part of Exeter. The owner is missing and Kitty wonders how she could get into the tunnels that start under the Glass Bottle. She's quite certain that her answers will be found there.
After another dead all the pieces fall into the puzzle of what happened to Councillor Everton. Matt gives Kitty some insight into his life and offers her some choices. A shocking discovery answers some questions while bringing more to be answered.
I highly recommend this series and am eagerly awaiting the next book to see what new adventures Kitty embarks on. She did say she wanted to learn how to drive a motor car!
The story is set in November 1933, Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell asks her to represent her and the Dolphin Hotel at the Hoteliers Dinner Dance being held at The Imperial Hotel. Kitty and Alice Miller (who has acted as her lady's maid and chaperone during several cases) are staying over at the hotel, while Captain Matthew Bryant will be Kitty's escort for the event.
Seated at their table are Councillor Harold Everton and his wife Marigold, and her daughter Daphne, his nephew Thomas King, Ivor Stilitoe and his wife Gladys. The owners of The Conway County House Hotel Mrs. Lavinia Braddock and her brother Clive Hendricks while not originally seated at their table are somehow switched to be there.
Councillor Everton had wanted to speak to Matt about something but he never had the chance. After taking a sachet for his indigestion, he slumps over dead on the table. Since it seems everyone had access to his sachets, it could have been anyone at the table.
Matt believes the murder of Councillor Everton is related to planning council applications. Someone was making money on promises regarding applications going through and then they're refused. Inspector Greville and Doctor Carter are also on the case.
As in previous books Kitty continues on the trail of what happened to her mother Slowed when she disappeared in June 1916. Father Lamb brings her a box that just before Jack Dawkins insisted be delivered to Kitty. Inside are some photos and newspaper clippings. These lead Kitty to the Glass Bottle Public House - a rather seedy place in a questionable part of Exeter. The owner is missing and Kitty wonders how she could get into the tunnels that start under the Glass Bottle. She's quite certain that her answers will be found there.
After another dead all the pieces fall into the puzzle of what happened to Councillor Everton. Matt gives Kitty some insight into his life and offers her some choices. A shocking discovery answers some questions while bringing more to be answered.
I highly recommend this series and am eagerly awaiting the next book to see what new adventures Kitty embarks on. She did say she wanted to learn how to drive a motor car!
November 6, 2020
This is another fabulously cosy crime story, featuring the intrepid Kitty and dashing, but conflicted Matt. Kitty is the heroine you expect in a story like this, taking advantage of the opportunities she has in this time period and wanting to do as much as she can as an independent woman. However, Matthew has issues with this and this has caused some disagreements with them previously.
In this story, however, we learn a bit more about Matthew and also see the green eyes of jealousy appear which gives us a bit more insight into him and his feelings towards Kitty, being a man he’s not the most comfortable at speaking about his feelings.
Leaving this aside for a moment, the story has barely started when we have a murder and the victim unfortunately ending up face down in his food, something which I expect he would have been most displeased with were he able to comment on it. The victim is not well liked by many so it gives plenty of people reason to wish rid of him but few have the opportunity, or so it seems. We also get more investigation into the disappearance of Kitty’s mother many years ago, which reveals new information that may shed some light on where she went.
This story has a mixed bag of characters, which brought out a variety of reactions from me when I was reading. The settings were, as always, brilliantly described, I could easily imagine myself there. I liked that Alice was back in the story again, assisting Kitty. She’s a fabulous character and one that perhaps should have a short side story of her own. It would be interesting to see her perspective on what she’s experienced and what it’s like when she goes home to her family.
If you want a cosy, historical crime story with a strong female lead then this is an excellent choice. While there is character development through the series this could equally be read as a stand alone. It will be interesting to see where her adventures take Kitty next.
In this story, however, we learn a bit more about Matthew and also see the green eyes of jealousy appear which gives us a bit more insight into him and his feelings towards Kitty, being a man he’s not the most comfortable at speaking about his feelings.
Leaving this aside for a moment, the story has barely started when we have a murder and the victim unfortunately ending up face down in his food, something which I expect he would have been most displeased with were he able to comment on it. The victim is not well liked by many so it gives plenty of people reason to wish rid of him but few have the opportunity, or so it seems. We also get more investigation into the disappearance of Kitty’s mother many years ago, which reveals new information that may shed some light on where she went.
This story has a mixed bag of characters, which brought out a variety of reactions from me when I was reading. The settings were, as always, brilliantly described, I could easily imagine myself there. I liked that Alice was back in the story again, assisting Kitty. She’s a fabulous character and one that perhaps should have a short side story of her own. It would be interesting to see her perspective on what she’s experienced and what it’s like when she goes home to her family.
If you want a cosy, historical crime story with a strong female lead then this is an excellent choice. While there is character development through the series this could equally be read as a stand alone. It will be interesting to see where her adventures take Kitty next.
October 16, 2020
Kitty Underhay is back and as winter envelops Torbay in the foggy, sleety weather no one likes she is representing her aunt, proprietress of their establishment, The Dolphin, at the Hoteliers' annual dinner. With her friend Captain Matt Bryant as her partner for the evening and dismayed by their dining companions she is hopeful a late evening of dancing will relieve the tension surrounding their table.
All that is forgotten however, when the most objectionable of their fellow diners, a prospective client of Matt’s, collapses and dies before their eyes and, once again, they find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation.
While private detective Matt is looking for the reasons the dead man had wanted to hire him Kitty tries to distract herself from the horrors of the evening by delving deeper into her own search for information relating to the disappearance of her mother many years earlier.
As the death toll rises they find new clues which could lead them straight to the killer. Danger begins to stalk them and they must save themselves if the families are ever to find out who killed their loved ones.
This is such a good series and this instalment moved the under stories along very nicely thank you as well as providing a cracking murder to solve. All the antagonists were richly and realistically drawn and the protagonists were familiarly delightful as usual.
Without spoilers there is plenty to consider as Kitty and Matt’s personal lives move on apace and I can confidently suggest the changes hinted at will mean the next book will be one to definitely look out for as well.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review. What can I say? I loved it.
All that is forgotten however, when the most objectionable of their fellow diners, a prospective client of Matt’s, collapses and dies before their eyes and, once again, they find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation.
While private detective Matt is looking for the reasons the dead man had wanted to hire him Kitty tries to distract herself from the horrors of the evening by delving deeper into her own search for information relating to the disappearance of her mother many years earlier.
As the death toll rises they find new clues which could lead them straight to the killer. Danger begins to stalk them and they must save themselves if the families are ever to find out who killed their loved ones.
This is such a good series and this instalment moved the under stories along very nicely thank you as well as providing a cracking murder to solve. All the antagonists were richly and realistically drawn and the protagonists were familiarly delightful as usual.
Without spoilers there is plenty to consider as Kitty and Matt’s personal lives move on apace and I can confidently suggest the changes hinted at will mean the next book will be one to definitely look out for as well.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review. What can I say? I loved it.
October 25, 2020
My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of Helena Dixon’s ‘Murder on the Dance Floor’ in exchange for an honest review.
“Kitty Underhay’s dance card is full… of death.”
This is the fourth in Dixon’s series of historical cosy mysteries featuring amateur sleuth Miss Kitty Underhay.
November 1933, Kitty is attending the annual Hoteliers' Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She is escorted by ex-army captain Matthew Bryant and Kitty is hoping that they will have some quality time together.
However, after the sumptuous meal local councillor Harold Everton feels ill and drops dead shortly after taking his medication. The police quickly discover that his death wasn’t from natural causes. Given Everton’s overbearing nature there are plenty of suspects. No more plot details to avoid spoilers.
In addition, throughout the series Kitty has been seeking answers about her mother’s disappearance in 1916. In each book this quest has moved on some. Both this and the restrained ‘will they?, won’t they?’ dynamic between Kitty and Matt have been quite compelling aspects of the series alongside the particular case under investigation.
I feel that Helena Dixon is respectful of the traditions of the Golden Age of Detectives yet confident enough to be playful with its tropes. She also excels in capturing the period setting with a fine attention to detail; including the formal etiquette that was observed with respect to relationships.
Overall, a very enjoyable cosy mystery that kept me guessing as to whodunnit. I enjoy this series very much and look forward to reading more of Kitty’s cases.
“Kitty Underhay’s dance card is full… of death.”
This is the fourth in Dixon’s series of historical cosy mysteries featuring amateur sleuth Miss Kitty Underhay.
November 1933, Kitty is attending the annual Hoteliers' Association Dinner and Dance on behalf of her grandmother, the proprietress of the Dolphin Hotel. She is escorted by ex-army captain Matthew Bryant and Kitty is hoping that they will have some quality time together.
However, after the sumptuous meal local councillor Harold Everton feels ill and drops dead shortly after taking his medication. The police quickly discover that his death wasn’t from natural causes. Given Everton’s overbearing nature there are plenty of suspects. No more plot details to avoid spoilers.
In addition, throughout the series Kitty has been seeking answers about her mother’s disappearance in 1916. In each book this quest has moved on some. Both this and the restrained ‘will they?, won’t they?’ dynamic between Kitty and Matt have been quite compelling aspects of the series alongside the particular case under investigation.
I feel that Helena Dixon is respectful of the traditions of the Golden Age of Detectives yet confident enough to be playful with its tropes. She also excels in capturing the period setting with a fine attention to detail; including the formal etiquette that was observed with respect to relationships.
Overall, a very enjoyable cosy mystery that kept me guessing as to whodunnit. I enjoy this series very much and look forward to reading more of Kitty’s cases.
June 14, 2025
Kitty Underhay’s dance card is full… of death! I love this tagline and this story, which is another great addition to the Kitty Underlay series. This is such a super fun series to read and just keeps getting better as each book is released. Murder on the Dance Floor is the 4th instalment and whilst it can be read as a standalone, I do recommend you reading them in order.
Once again it was so great to catch up with Kitty and co and be transported back to 1933 for a few hours. This time around we see Kitty become embroiled in another murder investigation when the local councillor drops dead while attending the annual Hoteliers’ Association Dinner and Dance. The murder weapon…cyanide…
The plot has been well researched and put together and Helena Dixon gives the reader another great mystery to solve and a host of suspects to second guess. The story also continues to focus on the disappearance of Kitty’s mother and we are given more information in this book as new information comes to hand.
I just adore Kitty and she just makes this series come to life so vividly. Helena Dixon has done a superb job with her and she is just a delight to read. The chemistry between her and Matt continues to grow and they work so well together. I look forward to seeing more developments in their burgeoning relationship in the next instalment.
If you are looking for a new cozy mystery series, then look no further. With great storylines, a cast of fun characters, mysteries to solve, that all are told through beautifully written words, you just can’t go wrong with this one. It was a pleasure to read and review Murder on the Dance Floor which I highly recommend.
Once again it was so great to catch up with Kitty and co and be transported back to 1933 for a few hours. This time around we see Kitty become embroiled in another murder investigation when the local councillor drops dead while attending the annual Hoteliers’ Association Dinner and Dance. The murder weapon…cyanide…
The plot has been well researched and put together and Helena Dixon gives the reader another great mystery to solve and a host of suspects to second guess. The story also continues to focus on the disappearance of Kitty’s mother and we are given more information in this book as new information comes to hand.
I just adore Kitty and she just makes this series come to life so vividly. Helena Dixon has done a superb job with her and she is just a delight to read. The chemistry between her and Matt continues to grow and they work so well together. I look forward to seeing more developments in their burgeoning relationship in the next instalment.
If you are looking for a new cozy mystery series, then look no further. With great storylines, a cast of fun characters, mysteries to solve, that all are told through beautifully written words, you just can’t go wrong with this one. It was a pleasure to read and review Murder on the Dance Floor which I highly recommend.
November 21, 2020
Kitty Underhay is embroiled in another murder investigation when a local councillor is poisoned at a dinner event at a hotel. Local politics and scandal are uncovered over the course of the investigation. Meanwhile, Kitty and Matthew Bryant try to move forward with their relationship...
Murder on the Dance Floor see the Kitty and Matthew seize the chance to spend some time together socially. But their enthusiasm is quickly diminished by Councillor Everton's death from cyanide. They join forces once again to investigate possible motives and suspects as well as supporting the police with their enquiries.
Kitty remains a strong female lead, negotiating attitudes towards women and class in the 1930s. She is a likeable character as is Matthew so I am glad they seem ready to embark on 'walking out'.
There are two subplots which have significance for the main characters. Firstly the romance between Kitty and Matt which has been simering slowly over the previous books. He is still haunted by the deaths of his wife and child but this book reveals secrets and allows the couple to consider a future.
The second subplot is the disappearance of Kitty's mother almost twenty years before. This has also threaded through the previous books and there are significant developments to the mystery in this book.
Although it is a murder mystery, there is no violence or graphic detail about the death. I have said previously that the books remind me of Agatha Christie books and the Gosford Park film in terms of setting and tone.
Murder on the Dance Floor see the Kitty and Matthew seize the chance to spend some time together socially. But their enthusiasm is quickly diminished by Councillor Everton's death from cyanide. They join forces once again to investigate possible motives and suspects as well as supporting the police with their enquiries.
Kitty remains a strong female lead, negotiating attitudes towards women and class in the 1930s. She is a likeable character as is Matthew so I am glad they seem ready to embark on 'walking out'.
There are two subplots which have significance for the main characters. Firstly the romance between Kitty and Matt which has been simering slowly over the previous books. He is still haunted by the deaths of his wife and child but this book reveals secrets and allows the couple to consider a future.
The second subplot is the disappearance of Kitty's mother almost twenty years before. This has also threaded through the previous books and there are significant developments to the mystery in this book.
Although it is a murder mystery, there is no violence or graphic detail about the death. I have said previously that the books remind me of Agatha Christie books and the Gosford Park film in terms of setting and tone.
October 28, 2020
I'm so sorry to have missed the first three of this series because this one is right up my street!
With her grandmother ill, Kitty Underhay has been given the task of representing the Dolphin Hotel at the annual Hotelier's Association Dinner and Dance. Accompanied by Captain Matthew Bryant, Kitty is hoping he will brighten what otherwise promises to be a dull evening. As they enjoy their meal, exchanging pleasantries with others seated at their table they are shocked when one of them, a rather obnoxious local councillor no less, keels over dead. With their sleuthing history, neither Kitty nor Matt can let this one go and are soon up to their eyes in investigating, desperate to aid the police in their probing for the murderer. However, the guilty party will go to any lengths to avoid being found out, and Matt and Kitty are in their sights.
Now, I love a good murder mystery, particularly one set in times gone by which skips past all the 'in your face' blood and gore so this one is just perfect for me. I wallowed in all the period details - especially the fashions! The characters are many and varied - all beautifully drawn - with a wide range of traits but what shines through is Kitty's kindness. There are plenty of suspects and a bunch of clues which could point to any of them and it all adds up to a lovely, entertaining read which made me smile every now and then. A fine mystery, beautifully written and worth 4.5 stars and a hearty recommendation.
With her grandmother ill, Kitty Underhay has been given the task of representing the Dolphin Hotel at the annual Hotelier's Association Dinner and Dance. Accompanied by Captain Matthew Bryant, Kitty is hoping he will brighten what otherwise promises to be a dull evening. As they enjoy their meal, exchanging pleasantries with others seated at their table they are shocked when one of them, a rather obnoxious local councillor no less, keels over dead. With their sleuthing history, neither Kitty nor Matt can let this one go and are soon up to their eyes in investigating, desperate to aid the police in their probing for the murderer. However, the guilty party will go to any lengths to avoid being found out, and Matt and Kitty are in their sights.
Now, I love a good murder mystery, particularly one set in times gone by which skips past all the 'in your face' blood and gore so this one is just perfect for me. I wallowed in all the period details - especially the fashions! The characters are many and varied - all beautifully drawn - with a wide range of traits but what shines through is Kitty's kindness. There are plenty of suspects and a bunch of clues which could point to any of them and it all adds up to a lovely, entertaining read which made me smile every now and then. A fine mystery, beautifully written and worth 4.5 stars and a hearty recommendation.
October 26, 2020
This series is becoming a favorite and I think it improves with each instalment.
This was excellent and I read it in one setting, a page turner I couldn't put down.
It was great to catch up with the characters and I was happy to read about the developments in the Kitty/Matt relationship.
The cast of characters are well thought and likeable as usual and it is interesting how Kitty changed and grew. She's now a strong and independent woman who is facing some hard realities but also some sweet news.
There are two POVs in the story and this makes the plot more interesting as Matt becomes a MCs on his own.
The historical background is vivid and well researched. It’s a light story but it deals with the aftermath of WWI and I love how the author deals with issues like PTSD and the changes in the women’s role.
The mystery is solid, full of red herrings and twists, and the solution came as a surprise.
This is a book that can be read as a standalone but it would be better to read the rest of the series before as part of the plot is developed through the different books.
I can't wait to read the next instalment because I want to travel back to the Dolphin hotel.
This was a highly enjoyable read that i strongly recommend.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This was excellent and I read it in one setting, a page turner I couldn't put down.
It was great to catch up with the characters and I was happy to read about the developments in the Kitty/Matt relationship.
The cast of characters are well thought and likeable as usual and it is interesting how Kitty changed and grew. She's now a strong and independent woman who is facing some hard realities but also some sweet news.
There are two POVs in the story and this makes the plot more interesting as Matt becomes a MCs on his own.
The historical background is vivid and well researched. It’s a light story but it deals with the aftermath of WWI and I love how the author deals with issues like PTSD and the changes in the women’s role.
The mystery is solid, full of red herrings and twists, and the solution came as a surprise.
This is a book that can be read as a standalone but it would be better to read the rest of the series before as part of the plot is developed through the different books.
I can't wait to read the next instalment because I want to travel back to the Dolphin hotel.
This was a highly enjoyable read that i strongly recommend.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
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