What do you think?
Rate this book
The Lady Violet Mysteries #1
Lady Violet Investigates
Lady Violet Belmaine emerges from two years of mourning less than enthusiastic about resuming her place in Polite Society. She’s talked into attending a country house party by her French physician friend, Hugh St. Sevier, only to find that the house party guests are preyed upon by a mysterious thief.
Among the guests is Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld. Violet once considered Sebastian her closest confidant, but war and the passing years have changed him. Nonetheless, when Sebastian’s valet, another veteran, comes under suspicion, Violet, St. Sevier, and Sebastian must work together to discover the true culprit, lest an innocent man be sent to the gallows for crimes he did not commit.
Among the guests is Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld. Violet once considered Sebastian her closest confidant, but war and the passing years have changed him. Nonetheless, when Sebastian’s valet, another veteran, comes under suspicion, Violet, St. Sevier, and Sebastian must work together to discover the true culprit, lest an innocent man be sent to the gallows for crimes he did not commit.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2021
259 people are currently reading
596 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
192 books2,915 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
May 7, 2022
Wonderful widowed heroine with two swains, the French emigre doctor and the gorgeous childhood sweetheart and highlander. Solving a mystery at a very strange house party.
March 31, 2023
Fond as I am of the Mischief in Mayfair series (very), these have the potential to delight me more.
Having guessed the solution early on I get to feel clever and I feel an economically sound for getting two good things togeth in one purchase. This is also a Regency period novel, albeit one much lighter on the romance, although I suspect a series-spanning romantic arc. This way I only get one point of view, but I get a mystery that I enjoy, with a deeply satisfying resolution. I also get to enjoy the banter with a primary cast through the arc.
Burrowes writes a tidy mystery. There isn't a trail of corpses, and although motive is mentioned, there's a deeper understanding of how this mess reached this point.
Because these are in high demand, and aren't available in all my libraries (one search in Libby covers all my accounts automatically!) I was forced to purchase the second in the series to carry on with no delay.
Despite a plethera of streaming services vying for my viewing budget, it surprises me how few series there are in my demographic. The success of every Austen adaptation along with the draw of Bridgerton makes me think every series with more than 3 readers would be thrown into production. And the authors do often choose to write an interlinked set. Borrowes is canny enough to publish a series of interlinked novels set at Christmas, so I put the probability that this series is specifically aimed at being adapted. And I am fine with that if I get the usually qualities AND attractive actors in appealing costumes and appropriate sets. Hmm, no time wasted on driving around in carriages and an ex use to show the leading man in skin-tight pants dripping wet. Who isn't thinking Colin Firth right now?
Anyway, fingers crossed for the option, and a quality series, and that I enjoy the remaining books at least half as much as this one.
Got me wondering: if the worst happens and my Beloved husband and I both die, do the Offspring inherit the Kindle account? How would that work?
Library copy
Having guessed the solution early on I get to feel clever and I feel an economically sound for getting two good things togeth in one purchase. This is also a Regency period novel, albeit one much lighter on the romance, although I suspect a series-spanning romantic arc. This way I only get one point of view, but I get a mystery that I enjoy, with a deeply satisfying resolution. I also get to enjoy the banter with a primary cast through the arc.
Burrowes writes a tidy mystery. There isn't a trail of corpses, and although motive is mentioned, there's a deeper understanding of how this mess reached this point.
Because these are in high demand, and aren't available in all my libraries (one search in Libby covers all my accounts automatically!) I was forced to purchase the second in the series to carry on with no delay.
Despite a plethera of streaming services vying for my viewing budget, it surprises me how few series there are in my demographic. The success of every Austen adaptation along with the draw of Bridgerton makes me think every series with more than 3 readers would be thrown into production. And the authors do often choose to write an interlinked set. Borrowes is canny enough to publish a series of interlinked novels set at Christmas, so I put the probability that this series is specifically aimed at being adapted. And I am fine with that if I get the usually qualities AND attractive actors in appealing costumes and appropriate sets. Hmm, no time wasted on driving around in carriages and an ex use to show the leading man in skin-tight pants dripping wet. Who isn't thinking Colin Firth right now?
Anyway, fingers crossed for the option, and a quality series, and that I enjoy the remaining books at least half as much as this one.
Got me wondering: if the worst happens and my Beloved husband and I both die, do the Offspring inherit the Kindle account? How would that work?
Library copy
January 10, 2022
I didn't think anything could stop me from pouncing on the next book in the Mischief in Mayfair series .... except for this book. I literally could not put it down, and the ending was a complete surprise.
Lady Violet attends her first public outing after two years of mourning for her husband - a house party. Her mourning was mixed with anger as their marriage wasn't exactly perfect. After reading about the shenanigans that go on during those parties, and how careful the women have to be when there are men who are less than gentlemen present, I personally would have chosen an occasion where everyone went home afterward. Yikes.
She had a friend there, her personal physician who had persuaded her to attend, as he thought she needed to get out once more. A man she had once been very close to was also there, so there were two potential love interests in the book. Part of what I anticipate in the rest of the series - which is already published! - is in seeing where the romance goes.
From the first day, various small items - some expensive, some not - start disappearing. This is the mystery that Lady Violet sets out to solve ... until it becomes more serious. This book and the mystery are beautifully plotted. Usually, I can guess 'who done it' halfway well before the end, but I never saw this one coming.
I highly recommend this book and the series, and really, anything else by Grace Burrowes. I received a copy of this book from the author without any requirement to write a review, and also bought my own copy.
Lady Violet attends her first public outing after two years of mourning for her husband - a house party. Her mourning was mixed with anger as their marriage wasn't exactly perfect. After reading about the shenanigans that go on during those parties, and how careful the women have to be when there are men who are less than gentlemen present, I personally would have chosen an occasion where everyone went home afterward. Yikes.
She had a friend there, her personal physician who had persuaded her to attend, as he thought she needed to get out once more. A man she had once been very close to was also there, so there were two potential love interests in the book. Part of what I anticipate in the rest of the series - which is already published! - is in seeing where the romance goes.
From the first day, various small items - some expensive, some not - start disappearing. This is the mystery that Lady Violet sets out to solve ... until it becomes more serious. This book and the mystery are beautifully plotted. Usually, I can guess 'who done it' halfway well before the end, but I never saw this one coming.
I highly recommend this book and the series, and really, anything else by Grace Burrowes. I received a copy of this book from the author without any requirement to write a review, and also bought my own copy.
August 29, 2022
Oh this was so much fun! Lady Violet is a hoot and I loved her immediately!!
This was a short, fun easy-to-read British house-party mystery so if that's your jam you may enjoy this.
I personally absolutely love widowed British ladies who decide they don't have to follow the ridiculous rules of the time and do whatever the hell they please! In this case, Violet decides to investigate some thefts to exonerate a poor servant who's positioned to take the fall for someone else and probably to to the gallows if Violet can't prove his innocence.
Violet has two charming, attractive male assistants in her investigations and makes it her business to stick her nose in anywhere necessary to figure out who the real guilty party is.
This was just super good fun. My library had this in audio format and the narrator was excellent. I definitely plan to continue with this series. I really enjoyed this first book and can't wait to go on future adventures with Lady Violet!!
This was a short, fun easy-to-read British house-party mystery so if that's your jam you may enjoy this.
I personally absolutely love widowed British ladies who decide they don't have to follow the ridiculous rules of the time and do whatever the hell they please! In this case, Violet decides to investigate some thefts to exonerate a poor servant who's positioned to take the fall for someone else and probably to to the gallows if Violet can't prove his innocence.
Violet has two charming, attractive male assistants in her investigations and makes it her business to stick her nose in anywhere necessary to figure out who the real guilty party is.
This was just super good fun. My library had this in audio format and the narrator was excellent. I definitely plan to continue with this series. I really enjoyed this first book and can't wait to go on future adventures with Lady Violet!!
January 29, 2023
2.5 stars. This was fine 🤷♀️.
October 23, 2025
TAGS: Single POV, no sex scene, steamy moments, house party, gothic, mysteries, forced proximity, theft, second chances, Scottish Marquess, promiscuity, widows, spinsters
After the death of her husband, lady Violet is trying to get back on her feet. Following the advise of her doctor and friend, she accept an invitation to a house party. There she will meet old friends and the one who got away years ago. Sadly, soon after the start of the party, some items are starting to go missing in the guests rooms. There is also some strange behaviour among the staff and suddenly everyone seems to be hiding something. Are the thefts only the tip of the iceberg? Lady Violet is determined to uncover all the sordid details of the mysteries.
It was a good read. It is a bit more of a mature read than a cozy mystery. Lady Violet is a widow who saw enough of the world to understand how horrible people can be. Still, she is in her mind twenty and has to figure out what it means, for her, to be a widow and a noble lady.
For the romance, we have two candidates. Her friend and doctor who helped her get better after a depression. The other one is the one who got away, he went to war years ago and after the death of his uncle, he received the title of marquess (of the Scottish variety). The doctor give the ''boy next door'' vibe and the masques is the grumpy caring type.
I hope you will enjoy this book.
After the death of her husband, lady Violet is trying to get back on her feet. Following the advise of her doctor and friend, she accept an invitation to a house party. There she will meet old friends and the one who got away years ago. Sadly, soon after the start of the party, some items are starting to go missing in the guests rooms. There is also some strange behaviour among the staff and suddenly everyone seems to be hiding something. Are the thefts only the tip of the iceberg? Lady Violet is determined to uncover all the sordid details of the mysteries.
It was a good read. It is a bit more of a mature read than a cozy mystery. Lady Violet is a widow who saw enough of the world to understand how horrible people can be. Still, she is in her mind twenty and has to figure out what it means, for her, to be a widow and a noble lady.
For the romance, we have two candidates. Her friend and doctor who helped her get better after a depression. The other one is the one who got away, he went to war years ago and after the death of his uncle, he received the title of marquess (of the Scottish variety). The doctor give the ''boy next door'' vibe and the masques is the grumpy caring type.
I hope you will enjoy this book.
April 2, 2022
Looks like the start of a Lovely Series 💜💜💜💜💜
Thoroughly enjoyed this delight of a story. Awesome characters! Can’t wait to see Violet joined by St. Sevier and Sebastian in future books. Lots of mystery, twists and turns, and a whisper of underlying romance. Written in her unique style, this series pulls the reader in and weaves a captivating tale you can’t put down. Up next… Book 2!
Thoroughly enjoyed this delight of a story. Awesome characters! Can’t wait to see Violet joined by St. Sevier and Sebastian in future books. Lots of mystery, twists and turns, and a whisper of underlying romance. Written in her unique style, this series pulls the reader in and weaves a captivating tale you can’t put down. Up next… Book 2!
May 15, 2022
A light, well-written mystery set in Regency England. The author, Grace Burrowes, is mostly known as a Regency romance writer (one of my favorites because of her writing, character development, historical research, and penchant for spinning stories about entire extended families, one character at a time). Apparently she wrote the first six books in this series (during the height of the pandemic, I believe)before releasing them all at once. This is the first in the series.
October 19, 2022
I really like Lady Violet
February 24, 2022
Great mystery set in the Regency Era, I believe. It's more of a cozy mystery because there are no bodies dropping right and left, and no physical danger the heroine is thrust into. This one is mostly the threat of hanging and thefts of small but precious things, many of them of more sentimental value than intrinsic. Lady Violet is a widow who has severe migraines and has more or less been forced out of mourning and a retreat from the world. She is at a house party of an old school friend because her friend, a French emigre doctor, dared her to go. A friend from her childhood who has recently inherited a Scottish title is also present, and they help her investigate the multiple thefts of cravat pins and suchlike so that her Scottish friend's valet isn't charged with the crime. The resolution is as unusual as the overall problem. I found it fascinating. It's a good read.
Burrowes has published the first six books of the series all on the same date, so I can get more as it suits me. She is a prolific author to have so many of these books written, as well as all the zillion others she's done. And done well! Good going, Ms. Burrowes!
Burrowes has published the first six books of the series all on the same date, so I can get more as it suits me. She is a prolific author to have so many of these books written, as well as all the zillion others she's done. And done well! Good going, Ms. Burrowes!
August 25, 2024
2.5 stars
Meh. I have a strange relationship with this author's writing. I disliked her romances (the ones that I've read), but I enjoyed her Lord Julian historical mystery series. I especially liked the protagonist. That's why I decided to try this series - also historical mysteries, but with a different protagonist. Unfortunately, the lead of this book - Lady Violet - left me cold. Her travails didn't touch me, didn't invoke any sympathy or any emotions at all. The entire story felt cold and distant. I won't be continuing with this series.
Meh. I have a strange relationship with this author's writing. I disliked her romances (the ones that I've read), but I enjoyed her Lord Julian historical mystery series. I especially liked the protagonist. That's why I decided to try this series - also historical mysteries, but with a different protagonist. Unfortunately, the lead of this book - Lady Violet - left me cold. Her travails didn't touch me, didn't invoke any sympathy or any emotions at all. The entire story felt cold and distant. I won't be continuing with this series.
August 3, 2022
Really enjoyed this one
October 9, 2022
This is a great first book to a cozy mystery series and an added bonus is it's a regency type of story and I love Jane Austen so this is right up my alley. I am looking forward to the next book.
Read
November 21, 2024Just a lovely regency manor mystery/romance.
July 4, 2025
4 stars for the independent and intelligent Lady Violet. The UST was a bit annoying initially and then became funny as it lumbered on.
November 21, 2023
clean regency mystery
So first of all, this is the 2nd series of Ms Burrows I've started reading. The first one I started isn't done yet, the Lord Julian mysteries. I liked it so much I looked for more of Ms Burrows books. The unfortunate thing is, by reading thru many reviews of her other books, it appears she writes stories with explicit love scenes included. That is not something I like to read, I wish books could have ratings like movies. Then I wouldn't have too waste time reading all these reviews that stupidly rehash the story. Why do reviewers summarize the story, the summary is already in the description!!!? Review the writing quality and type of content!!!!!
That being said, the reason i bought this series was because one of the reviewers finally actually mentioned that when the h and H finally connect in the final book, it is not a steamy love scene. So yay for me. But it took me sooo long to find a review that gave useful information.
I'm hoping the Lord Julian series keeps to a PG rating as I'm hoping for this series. I will review it at the end.
So far this book is great, Ms Burrows is good with her descriptions and writes very smooth. The words flow beautifully. I can see where maybe it has too much description if you read her books one after the other. It could get tedious. But so far it seemed to be enjoyable to read. I haven't been bored.
However,I felt the investigation was a little weak. At first it didn't seem like Violet was really investigating at all. Also, I didn't feel like the reader was given any clues to try and figure out who was the thief, I had absolutely no idea. I prefer the author to give a few clues, without giving enough to figure it out necessarily, but clues thrown in that you can look back and think it makes sense. But there was really nothing for the reader to build on to make an educated guess. Near the end, I came up with maybe it was Owen because it didn't make sense. Otherwise nothing really pointed to anyone.
But I did enjoy the book. And wish I didn't have to scour a gazillion reviews that are uselessly long to figure out which books are clean and well written.
So first of all, this is the 2nd series of Ms Burrows I've started reading. The first one I started isn't done yet, the Lord Julian mysteries. I liked it so much I looked for more of Ms Burrows books. The unfortunate thing is, by reading thru many reviews of her other books, it appears she writes stories with explicit love scenes included. That is not something I like to read, I wish books could have ratings like movies. Then I wouldn't have too waste time reading all these reviews that stupidly rehash the story. Why do reviewers summarize the story, the summary is already in the description!!!? Review the writing quality and type of content!!!!!
That being said, the reason i bought this series was because one of the reviewers finally actually mentioned that when the h and H finally connect in the final book, it is not a steamy love scene. So yay for me. But it took me sooo long to find a review that gave useful information.
I'm hoping the Lord Julian series keeps to a PG rating as I'm hoping for this series. I will review it at the end.
So far this book is great, Ms Burrows is good with her descriptions and writes very smooth. The words flow beautifully. I can see where maybe it has too much description if you read her books one after the other. It could get tedious. But so far it seemed to be enjoyable to read. I haven't been bored.
However,I felt the investigation was a little weak. At first it didn't seem like Violet was really investigating at all. Also, I didn't feel like the reader was given any clues to try and figure out who was the thief, I had absolutely no idea. I prefer the author to give a few clues, without giving enough to figure it out necessarily, but clues thrown in that you can look back and think it makes sense. But there was really nothing for the reader to build on to make an educated guess. Near the end, I came up with maybe it was Owen because it didn't make sense. Otherwise nothing really pointed to anyone.
But I did enjoy the book. And wish I didn't have to scour a gazillion reviews that are uselessly long to figure out which books are clean and well written.
June 12, 2024
The book covers of this series of Lady Violets mysteries are beautiful and far more interesting than the book itself!
Very slow-burners and not for the easily distracted. Very easy to put down. You don’t actually gain a bond with ANY of the characters - not even with the lead character, Lady Violet. That’s not good.
To my mind, a reader should be pulled into a book, by mind and heart, within the first couple of chapters. You should be so reluctant to put that book down that food is burnt, baths overflow and weather changes without your notice!
I’ve read books that have had me enthralled at every page and only when I’ve closed the book at the end have I realised it was 4am!
Unfortunately, this isn’t one of those books…..
It’s a frustratingly slow, gentle read that I very nearly put on the Did Not Finish pile but, as I had bought the full series, I felt obliged to get my moneys worth a plough bravely onward.
There’s no murders in this tale of Lady Violet at a house party with her saviours left and right in the names of Sebastian & Hugh. Thefts of silly little items and a capsizing punt but no murders (which, admit it, is what we all want!)
Very slow, very gentle, very genteel but unfortunately LITTERED with terrible American spellings (something that turns my stomach almost as much as the American sayings such as “sidewalk” instead of pavement and “pocketbook” instead of purse or wallet and “purse” instead of handbag or reticule!) AUTHORS BEWARE!!!
Very slow-burners and not for the easily distracted. Very easy to put down. You don’t actually gain a bond with ANY of the characters - not even with the lead character, Lady Violet. That’s not good.
To my mind, a reader should be pulled into a book, by mind and heart, within the first couple of chapters. You should be so reluctant to put that book down that food is burnt, baths overflow and weather changes without your notice!
I’ve read books that have had me enthralled at every page and only when I’ve closed the book at the end have I realised it was 4am!
Unfortunately, this isn’t one of those books…..
It’s a frustratingly slow, gentle read that I very nearly put on the Did Not Finish pile but, as I had bought the full series, I felt obliged to get my moneys worth a plough bravely onward.
There’s no murders in this tale of Lady Violet at a house party with her saviours left and right in the names of Sebastian & Hugh. Thefts of silly little items and a capsizing punt but no murders (which, admit it, is what we all want!)
Very slow, very gentle, very genteel but unfortunately LITTERED with terrible American spellings (something that turns my stomach almost as much as the American sayings such as “sidewalk” instead of pavement and “pocketbook” instead of purse or wallet and “purse” instead of handbag or reticule!) AUTHORS BEWARE!!!
September 3, 2022
Excellent narration. I enjoyed the three main characters very much and would be happy to spend more time with them going forward. The plot—investigating a series of petty thefts at a house party—felt light but the stakes were raised when an innocent man was set to be hung for the crimes unless the real perpetrator could be discovered. While I figured out parts of the scheme on my own there were additional pieces I didn’t manage to put into place until the reveal. I have unanswered questions about the backstories and interactions between the main characters that I presume will be revealed in future books. Chapter 12 of the audiobook suddenly cut off in the middle of a word. While it’s possible that only that one word was affected, the sudden scene shift at the opening of Chapter 13 and the fact that one plot point wasn’t tied up (who was the dark haired maid calling herself Haines?) makes me think that more was clipped.
December 15, 2021
🔍 Lady Violet Investigates 🔎
The Lady Violet Mysteries, Book One
✒️ Grace Burrowes
https://www.facebook.com/Grace-Burrow...
Release Date 02/22/2022 retailers, 12/14/2021 author’s shop
Publisher Grace Burrowes Publishing
➪ https://graceburrowes.com/bookshelf/l...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Lady Violet Belmaine emerges from two years of mourning less than enthusiastic about resuming her place in Polite Society. She’s talked into attending a country house party by her French physician friend, Hugh St. Sevier, only to find that the house party guests are preyed upon by a mysterious thief.
Among the guests is Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld. Violet once considered Sebastian her closest confidant, but war and the passing years have changed him. Nonetheless, when Sebastian’s valet, another veteran, comes under suspicion, Violet, St. Sevier, and Sebastian must work together to discover the true culprit, lest an innocent man be sent to the gallows for crimes he did not commit.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Can she sort out who is the real culprit before someone else is pinpointed as guilty…
I renewed my love with the author’s work when she released her last series, as my reading time is mostly devoted to the arcs I receive, I have to make choices, so I sadly had to leave aside many authors I enjoy as there is only 24hours a day and I’m only me.
But with my broken foot, I got some unexpected free time, so while on the mend, I spotted her new series and this one, I immediately marked them on my schedule.
Well seven books on the same day is an impossible task but I wagered with myself to read at least the last in the Mischief in Mayfair series and the first in Lady Violet’s with hope to find time for the five remaining books during the holidays.
And I will definitely read them.
I love historical romance and in between historical mysteries, so with a widowed heroine, two potential suitors and unexpected robbery, this book had all the premises of a promising read, and it did deliver.
Lady Violet is no demure ton’s woman, she is witty, clever and bored. And in need to find her marks as a woman free to do as she wants, as long as she takes care to not be seen or caught.
I loved her bickering and banters with Dunkeld and St. Sevier, she leads them on a merry chase they are happy to indulge with her.
This book has the author’s mark, quips, witticism and as she often adds to her romance, complex schemes with hidden clues and cloaked insights.
And while I grasped parts of the truth, I did not saw the whole plot, nor its unexpected resolution.
Now I am going pick Miss Dignified and clear some spaces for the second book in this series.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CXguwPyI...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalfiction #suspense #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #historicalmystery #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
The Lady Violet Mysteries, Book One
✒️ Grace Burrowes
https://www.facebook.com/Grace-Burrow...
Release Date 02/22/2022 retailers, 12/14/2021 author’s shop
Publisher Grace Burrowes Publishing
➪ https://graceburrowes.com/bookshelf/l...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Lady Violet Belmaine emerges from two years of mourning less than enthusiastic about resuming her place in Polite Society. She’s talked into attending a country house party by her French physician friend, Hugh St. Sevier, only to find that the house party guests are preyed upon by a mysterious thief.
Among the guests is Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld. Violet once considered Sebastian her closest confidant, but war and the passing years have changed him. Nonetheless, when Sebastian’s valet, another veteran, comes under suspicion, Violet, St. Sevier, and Sebastian must work together to discover the true culprit, lest an innocent man be sent to the gallows for crimes he did not commit.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Can she sort out who is the real culprit before someone else is pinpointed as guilty…
I renewed my love with the author’s work when she released her last series, as my reading time is mostly devoted to the arcs I receive, I have to make choices, so I sadly had to leave aside many authors I enjoy as there is only 24hours a day and I’m only me.
But with my broken foot, I got some unexpected free time, so while on the mend, I spotted her new series and this one, I immediately marked them on my schedule.
Well seven books on the same day is an impossible task but I wagered with myself to read at least the last in the Mischief in Mayfair series and the first in Lady Violet’s with hope to find time for the five remaining books during the holidays.
And I will definitely read them.
I love historical romance and in between historical mysteries, so with a widowed heroine, two potential suitors and unexpected robbery, this book had all the premises of a promising read, and it did deliver.
Lady Violet is no demure ton’s woman, she is witty, clever and bored. And in need to find her marks as a woman free to do as she wants, as long as she takes care to not be seen or caught.
I loved her bickering and banters with Dunkeld and St. Sevier, she leads them on a merry chase they are happy to indulge with her.
This book has the author’s mark, quips, witticism and as she often adds to her romance, complex schemes with hidden clues and cloaked insights.
And while I grasped parts of the truth, I did not saw the whole plot, nor its unexpected resolution.
Now I am going pick Miss Dignified and clear some spaces for the second book in this series.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CXguwPyI...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalfiction #suspense #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #historicalmystery #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
August 10, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 4 of 5 Stars
Series: The Lady Violet Mysteries #1
Publication Date: 2/22/22 (First Published 11/25/21)
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 222
I was intrigued to see Grace Burrowes had written a mystery series, and couldn’t wait to begin. As always, the writing is excellent and the characters are well developed and very relatable. Being a Grace Burrowes series, I was sure there would be a romance – which is a good thing because that is one of my requirements for any book I read. There is – or I guess will be – a romance I’m sure, but it didn’t happen in this book. At the moment, it appears to be a triangle, and that just won’t get it for me. So, if it takes very long for the resolution to the triangle to happen, I’ll just forego the series. Just as an FYI, I have read the book blurbs through book seven, and it doesn’t look like the triangle is resolved at that point. Since I have already purchased book two, I’ll read it, but won’t purchase more until at least book seven or eight. If the triangle is resolved by then, I’ll continue. If not, I’ll stop with the series. That, however, is just one of MY personal things – you may not need a settled romance and if you don’t then this will be a very enjoyable series for you.
Lady Violet Belmaine did not have a happy marriage. It was one arranged by her father and she wasn’t given a choice. With her husband deceased, she is now a very wealthy widow who is free to do as she pleases. However, she’s had a hard time dealing with that and had become a near recluse until Dr. Hugh St. Sevier begins to coax her to come out of her shell. He advises tiny steps – a short walk, then a long walk, then a carriage ride, accept one invitation a week, etc. – until he finally convinces her to attend a house party at Bathvale Abbey. Violet loves her newly found freedom and independence – at least there is one thing she can appreciate about her husband.
Dr. Hugh St. Sevier is a French émigré who served with the English in the wars against Napoleon. It hurt him beyond belief to serve on the side against his countrymen, but he couldn’t support Napoleon. As a physician in the wars, he did his best to heal soldiers from both sides.
Sebastian, Marquess of Dunkeld was a Colonel in the English army – a war hero. He also had a history with Violet. Sebastian was totally besotted with Violet and asked her father if he could court her. Her father refused – and did even worse – he belittled Sebastian and told him Violet did as well.
At the house party, things begin to disappear. At first, it is small inconsequential things, but it quickly escalates. When the finger is pointed at Sebastian’s new valet, Upjohn, who has just gone through a severe trauma with severe head injuries, Violet knows they have to solve the mystery themselves.
The mystery and solution are convoluted with a perpetrator who has a Machiavellian bent and it begins to seem as if it won’t be solved. That is especially the case when the magistrate is bent on taking things at face value and carting Upjohn off to the Assizes. Luckily for Upjohn, Violet isn’t one to take things at face value and she has a very well-functioning curiosity.
I will say, I wasn’t a fan of the resolution, but at least Upjohn wasn’t hanged for the thefts.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the second one in the series. Then, I’ll wait for the seventh to release to see if the triangle is resolved. That resolution, or not, will determine whether I continue. Again – that may not be important to you – and if it isn’t, you’ll love the entire series.
Series: The Lady Violet Mysteries #1
Publication Date: 2/22/22 (First Published 11/25/21)
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 222
I was intrigued to see Grace Burrowes had written a mystery series, and couldn’t wait to begin. As always, the writing is excellent and the characters are well developed and very relatable. Being a Grace Burrowes series, I was sure there would be a romance – which is a good thing because that is one of my requirements for any book I read. There is – or I guess will be – a romance I’m sure, but it didn’t happen in this book. At the moment, it appears to be a triangle, and that just won’t get it for me. So, if it takes very long for the resolution to the triangle to happen, I’ll just forego the series. Just as an FYI, I have read the book blurbs through book seven, and it doesn’t look like the triangle is resolved at that point. Since I have already purchased book two, I’ll read it, but won’t purchase more until at least book seven or eight. If the triangle is resolved by then, I’ll continue. If not, I’ll stop with the series. That, however, is just one of MY personal things – you may not need a settled romance and if you don’t then this will be a very enjoyable series for you.
Lady Violet Belmaine did not have a happy marriage. It was one arranged by her father and she wasn’t given a choice. With her husband deceased, she is now a very wealthy widow who is free to do as she pleases. However, she’s had a hard time dealing with that and had become a near recluse until Dr. Hugh St. Sevier begins to coax her to come out of her shell. He advises tiny steps – a short walk, then a long walk, then a carriage ride, accept one invitation a week, etc. – until he finally convinces her to attend a house party at Bathvale Abbey. Violet loves her newly found freedom and independence – at least there is one thing she can appreciate about her husband.
Dr. Hugh St. Sevier is a French émigré who served with the English in the wars against Napoleon. It hurt him beyond belief to serve on the side against his countrymen, but he couldn’t support Napoleon. As a physician in the wars, he did his best to heal soldiers from both sides.
Sebastian, Marquess of Dunkeld was a Colonel in the English army – a war hero. He also had a history with Violet. Sebastian was totally besotted with Violet and asked her father if he could court her. Her father refused – and did even worse – he belittled Sebastian and told him Violet did as well.
At the house party, things begin to disappear. At first, it is small inconsequential things, but it quickly escalates. When the finger is pointed at Sebastian’s new valet, Upjohn, who has just gone through a severe trauma with severe head injuries, Violet knows they have to solve the mystery themselves.
The mystery and solution are convoluted with a perpetrator who has a Machiavellian bent and it begins to seem as if it won’t be solved. That is especially the case when the magistrate is bent on taking things at face value and carting Upjohn off to the Assizes. Luckily for Upjohn, Violet isn’t one to take things at face value and she has a very well-functioning curiosity.
I will say, I wasn’t a fan of the resolution, but at least Upjohn wasn’t hanged for the thefts.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the second one in the series. Then, I’ll wait for the seventh to release to see if the triangle is resolved. That resolution, or not, will determine whether I continue. Again – that may not be important to you – and if it isn’t, you’ll love the entire series.
August 18, 2025
very enjoyable
I have been reading the author’s “Lord Julian“ series of books, and while waiting for the next book to be released, I stumbled upon the Lady Violet series.
The author is gifted in writing that employees excellent character development, entertaining repartee, and mysteries that are truly clever, not just to conceptualize, but then to put to paper—well done!
As much as I have enjoyed the other series (which is artfully told from a man’s point of view), I find myself so much more comfortable reading about a woman (from her point of view) who has a strong sense of self, and the ability to hold her own among the many men in the story who try to control her or put her in her “place.“ in this series, Lady Violet is a widow, trying desperately to come to terms with her altered place in Society and its expectations, while also holding fast to who she was as a single woman. I very much like Sebastian‘s gruff and growling personality and also very much enjoy Violet’s friend St. Sevier. this book was so much fun!
The author’s pace in delivering the story is excellent. For example, while I may not pay much attention to a room’s decor, I find it easy enough to skim over those descriptions (which are not overwhelming at all) and still keep up with the story as it flies along. I can’t quite put my finger on how the author accomplishes this, but because I am an avid reader, I feel that Burrowes has ruined me for a lot of the mediocre writing available, especially in e-books. When I try to pick up another title, I find that the pace is laborious, dragging on and on until something exciting finally takes place and the mystery begins. Not so with this author!
And so now I am invested in another of Burrowes’ series, and happily so.
I’ll look forward to the next book in the series.
I have been reading the author’s “Lord Julian“ series of books, and while waiting for the next book to be released, I stumbled upon the Lady Violet series.
The author is gifted in writing that employees excellent character development, entertaining repartee, and mysteries that are truly clever, not just to conceptualize, but then to put to paper—well done!
As much as I have enjoyed the other series (which is artfully told from a man’s point of view), I find myself so much more comfortable reading about a woman (from her point of view) who has a strong sense of self, and the ability to hold her own among the many men in the story who try to control her or put her in her “place.“ in this series, Lady Violet is a widow, trying desperately to come to terms with her altered place in Society and its expectations, while also holding fast to who she was as a single woman. I very much like Sebastian‘s gruff and growling personality and also very much enjoy Violet’s friend St. Sevier. this book was so much fun!
The author’s pace in delivering the story is excellent. For example, while I may not pay much attention to a room’s decor, I find it easy enough to skim over those descriptions (which are not overwhelming at all) and still keep up with the story as it flies along. I can’t quite put my finger on how the author accomplishes this, but because I am an avid reader, I feel that Burrowes has ruined me for a lot of the mediocre writing available, especially in e-books. When I try to pick up another title, I find that the pace is laborious, dragging on and on until something exciting finally takes place and the mystery begins. Not so with this author!
And so now I am invested in another of Burrowes’ series, and happily so.
I’ll look forward to the next book in the series.
August 29, 2022
It's been two years since the death of her promiscuous husband, and young widow Lady Violet allows her physician friend Hugh St. Sevier to convince her to attend a house party. It's...definitely not boring, but the excitement is not necessarily the good kind. First, one of the attendees is a childhood friend, Sebastian, now a Scottish marquis; a war veteran, he seems much changed for the cynical and peremptory, if still unfortunately attractive. Then, there's an unmitigated boor who seems to assume widows' intimate attentions are freely available to any man who asks--or insists. In addition, small items are going missing, and the blame falls on Sebastian's new valet, a veteran with recent head wounds that gave him partial amnesia. Lady Violet is not about to let the man be charged with something that could mean hanging, so she and her two (obviously) would-be swains take up the investigation.
I quite enjoyed this non-murder mystery, set in the Regency era. The details are well-done, and it's interesting to know that widows were apparently free to indulge in discreet affairs--I don't know how accurate that is, but I did wonder that no mention was made of birth control; it seemed to be assumed that once you're a widow, you're necessarily infertile? If not, I think it should have been mentioned, since illegitimacy played a role in the mystery. I thought the two love interests were both viable candidates; it will be interesting to see if Violet takes up with either of them (unlikely both, but you never know...).
I quite enjoyed this non-murder mystery, set in the Regency era. The details are well-done, and it's interesting to know that widows were apparently free to indulge in discreet affairs--I don't know how accurate that is, but I did wonder that no mention was made of birth control; it seemed to be assumed that once you're a widow, you're necessarily infertile? If not, I think it should have been mentioned, since illegitimacy played a role in the mystery. I thought the two love interests were both viable candidates; it will be interesting to see if Violet takes up with either of them (unlikely both, but you never know...).
September 9, 2023
This book was a fun read; it was a mystery and historical romance at the same time.
Lady Violet Belmaine lost her husband two years ago and is now emerging from the mourning period. She is not thrilled about coming back into society. She is invited to a country house party by her French doctor friend, Hugh St. Sevier. He travels with her to the party. She is a friend of the woman who is holding the party along with her husband.
Among the guests is Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld. Growing up, Violet considered him to be her closest friend. But time and war have changed him.
As the party gets started, it develops that there is a thief among the guests. Then the valet of Sebastian is suspected. You can't help but feel sorry for the valet. We met him at a ball being held in London before the party began. He had been brutally attacked and left naked. Sebastian feels compassion for him and hires him to be his valet. And then brings him to the country party; he has no memory of what happened. So he makes a handy person to put the blame on for the thefts.
Violet, St. Sevier and Sebastian work together to discover who is the real culprit. The valet could end up being hanged for crimes he did not commit.
This was a fun mystery more that romance. And I really liked it.
Lady Violet Belmaine lost her husband two years ago and is now emerging from the mourning period. She is not thrilled about coming back into society. She is invited to a country house party by her French doctor friend, Hugh St. Sevier. He travels with her to the party. She is a friend of the woman who is holding the party along with her husband.
Among the guests is Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld. Growing up, Violet considered him to be her closest friend. But time and war have changed him.
As the party gets started, it develops that there is a thief among the guests. Then the valet of Sebastian is suspected. You can't help but feel sorry for the valet. We met him at a ball being held in London before the party began. He had been brutally attacked and left naked. Sebastian feels compassion for him and hires him to be his valet. And then brings him to the country party; he has no memory of what happened. So he makes a handy person to put the blame on for the thefts.
Violet, St. Sevier and Sebastian work together to discover who is the real culprit. The valet could end up being hanged for crimes he did not commit.
This was a fun mystery more that romance. And I really liked it.
July 23, 2024
Easy but well written mystery. Lady Violet nee Derwent, widow of Frederick Belmaine, is at a house party where Sebastian MacHeath (Lord Dunkeld), a Scottish childhood friend now with the title of Marquess, is supposedly searching for a wife. The hostess and has a staid husband and a twin sister. The family has a suspiciously un-butler-like butler who spends a lot of time with the preschool aged heir. Guests' belongings go missing. Local magistrate arrests Sebastian's new valet, a veteran with brain injuries. Violet, Sebastian and Violet's French/English doctor friend Hugh St Sevier investigate. They learn the heir was begot by the lady of the house's twin sister and the lord's cousin (now butler). The lady of the house didn't provide an heir fast enough. The twin sister (mother) has a propensity for stealing. Violet, revived from maudlin widowhood by the mystery, convinces the lady of the house to leave in the guise of her sister. The sister will become the lady. Violet - whose husband was a player who cared some about - learns Sebastian had wanted to court her and her father said no.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2022
A good start to an historical mystery series from a favorite historical romance author of mine.
Lady Violet emerges from two years of mourning a philandering but otherwise amiable husband unsure and unenthusiastic about a house party that a physician friend has talked her into attending. She becomes drawn into some thefts among the guests and aided by Hugh (a French physician) and Sebastian (a childhood friend who is now a marquess), she begins to investigate.
I must admit that I had guessed part of the denouement, but it’s the writing that makes Burrowes’ books such a pleasure. She imbues her characters with dry wit and charm, and their dialogue/dialect feels like it is authentic to the time…her books are always a joy for me to become immersed in. There’s a possible love triangle here, but it’s not prominent. I think that will be a slow-developing arc. At 220 pages, this had a bit of a “cozy” mystery feel for those who enjoy that genre. I’m definitely in for the long haul.
My thanks to the author for the free arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Lady Violet emerges from two years of mourning a philandering but otherwise amiable husband unsure and unenthusiastic about a house party that a physician friend has talked her into attending. She becomes drawn into some thefts among the guests and aided by Hugh (a French physician) and Sebastian (a childhood friend who is now a marquess), she begins to investigate.
I must admit that I had guessed part of the denouement, but it’s the writing that makes Burrowes’ books such a pleasure. She imbues her characters with dry wit and charm, and their dialogue/dialect feels like it is authentic to the time…her books are always a joy for me to become immersed in. There’s a possible love triangle here, but it’s not prominent. I think that will be a slow-developing arc. At 220 pages, this had a bit of a “cozy” mystery feel for those who enjoy that genre. I’m definitely in for the long haul.
My thanks to the author for the free arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
June 26, 2022
This was just what I needed - a Regency mystery with romance. Lady Violet is a 25 year old widow. Her marriage was arranged and it was basically tolerable, not great. But the experience was crushing to her spirit, though she would not say so. A (gorgeous, French) doctor friend dares her to attend a house party for two weeks given by a former school chum. It turns out to be anything but peaceful as Violet navigates between two very attractive men, mysterious thefts and an act of injustice that threatens an innocent man’s life.
I just love Sebastian (dark, glowering Scot) and Hugh, the sexy French doctor. There is no steam but lots of attraction. And that’s frankly the part I like. Violet, Hugh and Sebastian all have a strong sense of honor and justice. Yes! But also, the repartee! C’est bon.
The intrigue is worthy: many clues but confusing to the end. The resolution is crisp and tidy, if a bit far fetched. (Don’t think about it!). I have signed up for the series. Bliss.
I just love Sebastian (dark, glowering Scot) and Hugh, the sexy French doctor. There is no steam but lots of attraction. And that’s frankly the part I like. Violet, Hugh and Sebastian all have a strong sense of honor and justice. Yes! But also, the repartee! C’est bon.
The intrigue is worthy: many clues but confusing to the end. The resolution is crisp and tidy, if a bit far fetched. (Don’t think about it!). I have signed up for the series. Bliss.
December 4, 2021
When Lady Violet Belmaine is persuaded to attend a country house party by her friend and physician, she anticipates weeks of boredom, but not a mysterious series of thefts. Rising to the challenge and assisted by her former dear friend, Sebastian MacHeath, Marquess of Dunkeld, Lady Violet defends a veteran who is initially accused of the crimes, saving an innocent man from prosecution. As the story unfolds, Lady Violet and Sebastian renew their acquaintance which had become strained over the years due to misunderstandings and life experiences on both their parts. This story was just delightful! Ms. Burrowes writes witty dialog which is perfectly at home in the historical setting. As in many of Ms. Burrowes books, the resolution is totally unexpected and totally perfect. This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.
July 3, 2022
I INHALED this in a day. And have already reserved the next book at the library.
Lady Violet is a widow; her marriage was … not exactly unhappy, but she emerged from it very wounded in spirit. Mourning has left her less than eager to even leave her home, and her physician insists that she attend an estate party to break her out of this funk.
So it’s off to see an old school friend and her troubled twin sister. Almost without meaning to, Lady Violet notices a lot of odd things going on in this home. A footman who is not treated like a servant, the sister who has the ear of the husband, and then the thefts start and it is not just money being stolen; it’s keepsakes that cannot be replaced.
Meanwhile, she juggles her two men; one her past, the other perhaps her future.
888
escapism when I needed it SO badly, and I must say, the biggest twist I’ve seen in a HR mystery title.
4 stars
So far this year, my library saved me A$1,566.15
Lady Violet is a widow; her marriage was … not exactly unhappy, but she emerged from it very wounded in spirit. Mourning has left her less than eager to even leave her home, and her physician insists that she attend an estate party to break her out of this funk.
So it’s off to see an old school friend and her troubled twin sister. Almost without meaning to, Lady Violet notices a lot of odd things going on in this home. A footman who is not treated like a servant, the sister who has the ear of the husband, and then the thefts start and it is not just money being stolen; it’s keepsakes that cannot be replaced.
Meanwhile, she juggles her two men; one her past, the other perhaps her future.
888
escapism when I needed it SO badly, and I must say, the biggest twist I’ve seen in a HR mystery title.
4 stars
So far this year, my library saved me A$1,566.15
March 17, 2024
After enjoying Burrowes' Lord Julian mysteries, I wanted to try out her Lady Violet series. This definitely reads like an earlier version of the Lord Julian series. It's set at the same time, still involves the fall out of the Napoleonic Wars in Britain, and centers around an individual with higher and somewhat unique social standing just coming out of a period of isolation. Lady Violet is a character who knows herself somewhat better than Lord Julian, which makes her voice different enough to not feel that I'm reading the same series.
This is a fairly light mystery, with only a few purloined items and most of the tension stemming from social mores. It was a fun story and I'm excited to read more.
This is a fairly light mystery, with only a few purloined items and most of the tension stemming from social mores. It was a fun story and I'm excited to read more.
Read
October 10, 2024As a first outing after her mourning period, Violet attends a house party in the country at the urging of her friend and doctor Hugh. However, the inclusion of her old friend Sebastian immediately makes the party a bit awkward. Then, small items start disappearing with some turning up in inappropriate places including Violet's shawl in Sebastian's bedroom.
When one of the family members nearly drowns after a small boat is tampered with, tensions begin to run even higher. A stranger who shows up injured is an easy scapegoat, but other anomalies capture Violet's interest as she puzzles through the issue before the local magistrate can hang an innocent man. Family drama ultimately comes out and leads to a creative solution.
When one of the family members nearly drowns after a small boat is tampered with, tensions begin to run even higher. A stranger who shows up injured is an easy scapegoat, but other anomalies capture Violet's interest as she puzzles through the issue before the local magistrate can hang an innocent man. Family drama ultimately comes out and leads to a creative solution.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews