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Victorian Bookshop Mystery #3
The Royal Assassin: A Victorian era clean cozy mystery
When the Duke of Blackford enters her bookstore, Georgia knows the Archivist Society is in need of her services. The Tsar of Russia and his family are visiting Queen Victoria on the auspices of the engagement of the Russian princess Kira to the son of the Queen’s cousin. When Kira’s bodyguard is found dead on a train returning from Scotland, the Queen calls on Blackford to discreetly protect the princess and prevent an international incident.
The Russian royalty refuses help in finding the murderer, suspecting anarchists and demanding every extremist in London be hanged. But that is far from the English way. To get the job done, Georgia must go undercover as Kira’s English secretary. She soon discovers that anarchy isn’t the only motive in the case-and that someone is determined to turn royal wedding bells into a funeral dirge.
The Russian royalty refuses help in finding the murderer, suspecting anarchists and demanding every extremist in London be hanged. But that is far from the English way. To get the job done, Georgia must go undercover as Kira’s English secretary. She soon discovers that anarchy isn’t the only motive in the case-and that someone is determined to turn royal wedding bells into a funeral dirge.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2015
274 people are currently reading
827 people want to read
About the author
Kate Parker
29 books749 followersKate began reading Agatha Christie mysteries and the Nancy Drew books while her classmates were reading Dick and Jane. She particularly likes historical mysteries and the feeling of time travel a good historical book can give the reader. Combined with her love of late Victorian to World War II architecture and fashions, she found an outlet for the stories and characters that fill her head by writing The Victorian Bookshop Mysteries, The Milliner Mysteries, and The Deadly series, as well as taking part in the Christmas Revels anthologies.
So far, Kate has put out four free short stories, The Missing Brooch (Victorian Bookshop Mystery), Emily's First Case (Milliner Mysteries), and The Missing Maps and A Christmas Mystery (Deadly Series), to her newsletter list. The Mystery at Chadwick House is a novella that is free for newsletter subscribers or can be purchased at retailers. Sign up at www.KateParkerbooks.com to get free copies.
So far, Kate has put out four free short stories, The Missing Brooch (Victorian Bookshop Mystery), Emily's First Case (Milliner Mysteries), and The Missing Maps and A Christmas Mystery (Deadly Series), to her newsletter list. The Mystery at Chadwick House is a novella that is free for newsletter subscribers or can be purchased at retailers. Sign up at www.KateParkerbooks.com to get free copies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 14, 2017
The more I read of this. the more I want to spend time with these people! <3
Even better than the last two (and those were dang good), the mystery is more complex this time and we see Emma/Sumner Georgia/Blackford grow closer.
Some developments that had me squealing
I was glad to see Georgia and Blackford get more intimate moments in this (emotional, get your mind out of the gutters:-P), they are suited for each other and I want to say screw the class system, idiots *glares at the time period* We get to see more sides of Blackford too, and this made me fall in love with him even more as a character.
Princess Kira... boy am I glad I wasn't working in that household when she was there, I would have had headaches all day long. Not a bad girl, just... spoiled.
The humor is still present here, one passage especially hehe:
When we walked back into the parlor, conversation stopped.
Perhaps because I was showing a great deal of bosom. Or possibly the amount of leg visible, well above my ankle. Whatever the reason, most of the men were looking at the ceiling or the floor.
Blackford was gaping at me like a schoolboy.
Hopefully in the next installment those two tell each other how they feel, crossing my fingers :)
No criticisms here, highly recommend this series!
Happy reading!
Still Georgia and Blackford for me:
Emma and Sumner:
(tentative)
Even better than the last two (and those were dang good), the mystery is more complex this time and we see Emma/Sumner Georgia/Blackford grow closer.
Some developments that had me squealing
I was glad to see Georgia and Blackford get more intimate moments in this (emotional, get your mind out of the gutters:-P), they are suited for each other and I want to say screw the class system, idiots *glares at the time period* We get to see more sides of Blackford too, and this made me fall in love with him even more as a character.
Princess Kira... boy am I glad I wasn't working in that household when she was there, I would have had headaches all day long. Not a bad girl, just... spoiled.
The humor is still present here, one passage especially hehe:
When we walked back into the parlor, conversation stopped.
Perhaps because I was showing a great deal of bosom. Or possibly the amount of leg visible, well above my ankle. Whatever the reason, most of the men were looking at the ceiling or the floor.
Blackford was gaping at me like a schoolboy.
Hopefully in the next installment those two tell each other how they feel, crossing my fingers :)
No criticisms here, highly recommend this series!
Happy reading!
Still Georgia and Blackford for me:
Emma and Sumner:
(tentative)
July 30, 2016
Its nice when you take a break from a book series, then find there's a new book and still like said series. This is one of those series.
Anyway, another good sequel in the mystery bookshop series thus far. The mystery was good, although Georgia had her moments where I was like, would those two just tell each other how they feel already? The adorable tension between them is off the charts.
The reveal a little predictable though I did have some guesses as to who done it which makes these mysteries fun reads. Writing style and pace also good. And yay for more Sumner and Emma.
And that ending. Looking forward to the next bookshop mystery with Georgia and co.
Anyway, another good sequel in the mystery bookshop series thus far. The mystery was good, although Georgia had her moments where I was like, would those two just tell each other how they feel already? The adorable tension between them is off the charts.
The reveal a little predictable though I did have some guesses as to who done it which makes these mysteries fun reads. Writing style and pace also good. And yay for more Sumner and Emma.
And that ending. Looking forward to the next bookshop mystery with Georgia and co.
July 25, 2015
I was worried when I read that Georgia had to watch out for the Russian princess Kira and there was talk about anarchists--the story sounded so much NOT what I like to read. I only purchased the book because I enjoyed the first two books so much. And I am GLAD! Kate Parker once again brought the characters alive and put them in a slightly different type of historical mystery. The mystery was fast paced and unrelenting, and although I figured part of the story out it didn't matter, I was still eager to find out what would happen next!
July 26, 2017
The Archivist Society is busy working on a case where a group of thieves has robbed a peer's home by using dynamite to blow up the safe -- and part of the house. They never take on more than one case at a time -- well -- almost never. Here comes the Duke of Blackford requesting their help in solving the murder of a Russian bodyguard to a Russian Princess who is in England to meet her betrothed. The Duke explains that they need to find the murderer and protect the Princess in order to prevent an international incident that would greatly harm the country.
There isn't one likable Russian in the lot!!! I think maybe we are supposed to like the princess because she is a victim, but I didn't like her any better than the villains!
There are kidnappings, murders, blackmail, undercover assignments all sorts of exciting things before BOTH cases are solved. The heroes are truly heroic and the villains are truly villainous!!!
Emma's romance with Sumner blossoms and grows to their HEA. We also learn something very interesting about Sumner -- interesting and funny.
Georgia's daydreams of the Duke continue -- and -- she finally finds and meets the man who killed her parents. Too bad the man is in an embassy and cannot be touched while he's there. It will be interesting to see -- in future books -- how and if she finally gets justice for her parents' murder.
Great addition to the series!
There isn't one likable Russian in the lot!!! I think maybe we are supposed to like the princess because she is a victim, but I didn't like her any better than the villains!
There are kidnappings, murders, blackmail, undercover assignments all sorts of exciting things before BOTH cases are solved. The heroes are truly heroic and the villains are truly villainous!!!
Emma's romance with Sumner blossoms and grows to their HEA. We also learn something very interesting about Sumner -- interesting and funny.
Georgia's daydreams of the Duke continue -- and -- she finally finds and meets the man who killed her parents. Too bad the man is in an embassy and cannot be touched while he's there. It will be interesting to see -- in future books -- how and if she finally gets justice for her parents' murder.
Great addition to the series!
October 19, 2017
I like this series, and I especially like the character of Georgia, but this particular book wasn't the best of the series for me.
I'm not very interested in Russia or Russian history, and that's what this story focused on. I prefer England and its own local historical dramas, so while I enjoyed this, as I said it wasn't my favourite of the series.
We did get more of the romantic tension between Georgia and the Duke of Blackford in this one, and we also got to see the two of them working together as equals to solve the mystery, find the killers and save the day. I like that Blackford treats Georgia with respect as well as admiration and doesn't continually try to make her stay behind and out of danger. She wouldn't accept it if he did try, but it's a big mark in his favour that he doesn't. He understands who she is and he obviously respects that, even if the societal rules of the day *seem* to mean he and Georgia can't ever really be together. I'm betting at some point the author will figure a way around that . . . at least I'm hoping she does!
Overall this was good - not great, but an entertaining fun, cozy mystery read. I will continue with this series.
I'm not very interested in Russia or Russian history, and that's what this story focused on. I prefer England and its own local historical dramas, so while I enjoyed this, as I said it wasn't my favourite of the series.
We did get more of the romantic tension between Georgia and the Duke of Blackford in this one, and we also got to see the two of them working together as equals to solve the mystery, find the killers and save the day. I like that Blackford treats Georgia with respect as well as admiration and doesn't continually try to make her stay behind and out of danger. She wouldn't accept it if he did try, but it's a big mark in his favour that he doesn't. He understands who she is and he obviously respects that, even if the societal rules of the day *seem* to mean he and Georgia can't ever really be together. I'm betting at some point the author will figure a way around that . . . at least I'm hoping she does!
Overall this was good - not great, but an entertaining fun, cozy mystery read. I will continue with this series.
December 19, 2015
I didn't guess who the culprit was but I wasn't surprised either; I'm not sure it could have realistically been anyone else. An entertaining read with a quite an ending and I enjoy the characters.
More wordy review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/120329...
More wordy review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/120329...
January 22, 2025
three stars because it kept me entertained and wanting more but the story was just ok. I’ll be tuning in for the rest though #teamSumner
July 26, 2018
A decently diverting installment in the series. I cared for neither Kira nor Nadia, and the Russian intrigue left me cold, but I liked the Duchess of Hereford a lot, and the governess and maid's subplots were well done. I would have liked Sumner's secret to be better foreshadowed than just dumped at the end as a deus ex machina, but ah well.
I did think at first that the mysterious young lady Kira was clandestinely meeting might be her secret lover, which would have been a cool twist, but so far everyone in this series is straight.
I'm starting to find Georgia and the Duke's relationship frustrating. I know the "will they or won't they" tension is a fundamental part of romance novels, which Parker has obviously brought into these romantic mysteries, but it starts getting tedious when it's drawn out too long. Especially when Georgia is always pining on about how she's middle-class and Blackford will never marry her - it gets repetitive and thus boring.
Still, overall the books in this series are a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, and I'll be keeping an eye out for further installments.
I did think at first that the mysterious young lady Kira was clandestinely meeting might be her secret lover, which would have been a cool twist, but so far everyone in this series is straight.
I'm starting to find Georgia and the Duke's relationship frustrating. I know the "will they or won't they" tension is a fundamental part of romance novels, which Parker has obviously brought into these romantic mysteries, but it starts getting tedious when it's drawn out too long. Especially when Georgia is always pining on about how she's middle-class and Blackford will never marry her - it gets repetitive and thus boring.
Still, overall the books in this series are a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, and I'll be keeping an eye out for further installments.
June 23, 2015
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN is an enjoyable mix of mystery, drama, fun, and romance.
I’ve recently started reading more historical cozy mysteries and this trip to Victorian England was simply delightful. Author Kate Parker has obviously done her research and it shows.
Georgia Fenchurch is a wonderfully written heroine for the time period. While she has a lot of the traits of a true Victorian woman, she is also independent and doesn’t like being told what to do.
Lord Blackford enlists Georgia to help solve the murder of the bodyguard of a Russian Princess. What follows next is a story full of excitement and intrigue with twists and turns that kept my head spinning and my brain working overtime right up to a reveal that I never saw coming.
This book has a little something for fans of many genres. You just can’t go wrong with it!
Take a trip back to the Victorian era the summer and pick up a copy of THE ROYAL ASSASSIN.
April 30, 2023
It took me a while to get into this story but I think it was because I had no time to just sit down and read.
When Duke Blackford visits Georgia Fenchurch's bookshop she knows the Archivist Society has some work to do. It seems a Russian Princess, visiting to meet her intended husband, may be under a death threat and the Archivist Society has been asked to look into it. Georgia must go undercover in the home where Princess Kira is staying and try to discover any secrets that might help them solve the mystery. The princess does not help much as she sneaks out every chance she gets to see a half sister she used to be close to.
As they seek to find out the truth Blackford and Georgia are drawn together more and more. Finding that they care a great deal for each other but they need to find out how to make it work as he is royalty and she is not.
I really liked Georgia and Blackford. They make a great couple. I hope it all works out for them.
When Duke Blackford visits Georgia Fenchurch's bookshop she knows the Archivist Society has some work to do. It seems a Russian Princess, visiting to meet her intended husband, may be under a death threat and the Archivist Society has been asked to look into it. Georgia must go undercover in the home where Princess Kira is staying and try to discover any secrets that might help them solve the mystery. The princess does not help much as she sneaks out every chance she gets to see a half sister she used to be close to.
As they seek to find out the truth Blackford and Georgia are drawn together more and more. Finding that they care a great deal for each other but they need to find out how to make it work as he is royalty and she is not.
I really liked Georgia and Blackford. They make a great couple. I hope it all works out for them.
May 5, 2020
This is the third of four books in the Victorian Bookstore series, and each book adds new characters but also a deepening and development of the characters previously presented.
The book is set in London in the end of the 1800s. The author has researched the era well, and I've enjoyed the historical presentation of the time.
The Two plots that the Archivist society is investigating turn out to be closely linked. There is a lot going on, with quite a bit of intrigue but the author develops it well. There are three romances, all chaste, but fascinating to watch develop. I've learned more about social conditions of the times, the royalty of Russia, anarchists and immigrants to England, and life in London at the time.
I highly recommend this series.
The book is set in London in the end of the 1800s. The author has researched the era well, and I've enjoyed the historical presentation of the time.
The Two plots that the Archivist society is investigating turn out to be closely linked. There is a lot going on, with quite a bit of intrigue but the author develops it well. There are three romances, all chaste, but fascinating to watch develop. I've learned more about social conditions of the times, the royalty of Russia, anarchists and immigrants to England, and life in London at the time.
I highly recommend this series.
July 19, 2025
This is the third book in the series. The Archivist Society has been called into action when the bodyguard of the Russian Princess Kira is found dead on the train returning from Scotland The Duke enlists Georgia to act as the English secretary to the princess as they search for clues for the murderer and work to protect the princess before her wedding. The feelings between the Duke and Georgia continue to grow, and they are not the only potential couple as Emma and Sumner develop a full blown romance. The mystery was intriguing and well played out.
February 27, 2018
I have not read #1 or 2 in the series, but I found this a light and fun cozy mystery. The main characters, Georgia Fenchurch, is a fun and independent woman who runs a bookshop and solves mysteries on the side. She appears to have overcome several obstacles and cares for others. This is a cozy mystery, so there is a few murders and a little romance and a few stretches, but an overall good read. Will read the others in the series.
December 28, 2022
While I guessed who was really behind all the accidents and threats halfway through the book, the fast-paced adventure provided much delight in growing relationships between four of the characters and the surprise at the end.
Blackford and Georgia draw just a little closer in the midst of her protecting a Russian princess, figuring out what is really going on backstairs at the Duchess of Hereford's home and who is trying to kill whom.
Blackford and Georgia draw just a little closer in the midst of her protecting a Russian princess, figuring out what is really going on backstairs at the Duchess of Hereford's home and who is trying to kill whom.
April 24, 2019
It has been arranged that the Russian Princess Kira is to marry the son of the Queen’s cousin, the Duke of Sussex. But the Archivist Society are brought in when Kira's bodyguard is murdered. As she is staying at the home of the Duchess of Hereford, Georgia is recruited to work undercover as an English secretary.
An enjoyable mystery but still with unwanted Americanisms.
An enjoyable mystery but still with unwanted Americanisms.
February 18, 2025
Very enjoyable
A very fun book. Intriguing story regarding a house guess from hell with mysterious comings and goings of foreign princesses, Grand Dukes and a robber or two. Not to mention a few murders thrown in. How our intrepid heroes solve all this is what makes this a enjoyable story.
A very fun book. Intriguing story regarding a house guess from hell with mysterious comings and goings of foreign princesses, Grand Dukes and a robber or two. Not to mention a few murders thrown in. How our intrepid heroes solve all this is what makes this a enjoyable story.
June 26, 2017
foolish princesses
the russian princess was all sorts of annoying. though i don't think far from typical. georgia did blackford's interactions are really the best part. the whole society crime fighters makes it all the more possible.
the russian princess was all sorts of annoying. though i don't think far from typical. georgia did blackford's interactions are really the best part. the whole society crime fighters makes it all the more possible.
September 5, 2018
So much better than the 1st 2 books. Really held my interest. Georgia was much smarter and didn't whine nearly as much, although she had a few moments (can't marry the Duke, Emma might leave her, etc. ) Overall, quick paced good mystery.
July 15, 2018
I enjoyed the first book in this series, but found the second to be not quite as good. This one was fun again. I enjoyed the story. As with many historical detective novels, a little suspension of reality is needed, but altogether a fun book.
August 11, 2018
I liked this book much more then the second one. :)the plot was more believable & I’ve grown to love all the characters. It kept me guessing till the very end. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
April 14, 2023
As a big fan of the Victorian era, I was pretty much always going to love this series. Georgia is a great heroine, and I can't wait to find out what happens in the ongoing storyline in later books.
I recommend this book.
I recommend this book.
July 4, 2017
Best one yet
Great mystery, fun characters. Can't wait till the next one. Will the duke and Georgia get together, I have to keep reading to find out
Great mystery, fun characters. Can't wait till the next one. Will the duke and Georgia get together, I have to keep reading to find out
August 15, 2017
I would read more in this series. A fast-moving story. Believable characters.
May 10, 2018
Enjoyed it immensely
Victorian England, a foreign Princess, Dukes and Duchesses, Lords and Ladies, among what other group could a mystery be so Devine?
Victorian England, a foreign Princess, Dukes and Duchesses, Lords and Ladies, among what other group could a mystery be so Devine?
May 28, 2018
I really liked this one. Royalty at its worst. And many characters moving forward in life.
November 18, 2018
Loved this book ESPECIALLY since it was set in Victorian Era England!!
December 8, 2019
An exciting fast read with Georgia and the Archivist Society helping to discover who murdered the Russian princess Kira's bodyguard while here for her engagement to The Duke of Sussex.
May 28, 2020
Okay, I'm clearly buzzing through these as fast as I can, they're that good! I'm really enjoying Parker's writing and begrudge the time it takes to write a review because I want to be reading!
March 12, 2021
I liked the story by the end, but I found all of the characters, including the leads rather annoying. I may read the last two just to finish off the series, but I'm in no hurry.
March 23, 2021
This is another installment of a great series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews