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Cressida Fawcett #2
Death by a Cornish Cove
A seaside party at a Cornish mansion with plenty of fizz, what could be more perfect? But something fishy is afoot… a killer lurks among the guests, and only Cressida Fawcett can stop them.
When Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, she is looking forward to sipping rum cocktails clad as a pirate, watching the red-sailed boats go by and relaxing in the sea air with her good friend Dotty. But before they can raise their glasses to toast Cressida’s former flame Lord Canterbury’s engagement, he drops dead in front of the horrified guests.
The local doctor determines that Lord Canterbury was poisoned, and soon Detective Chief Inspector Andrews is on his way from Scotland Yard. But Cressida is dismayed by the murder of the intrepid explorer who once asked for her hand in marriage, and she cannot simply leave the case to the police. Together with Dotty and her little pug Ruby, Cressida searches for clues only to discover that many of the guests have a motive for murder. Did an irate journalist or a bitter fellow explorer send Lord Canterbury on his untimely final journey?
And when a young maid is found dead, floating in the shimmering waters of the cove, Cressida knows time is running out to catch the killer. Could a clue hidden among some rather pungent crab sandwiches help her solve the case before there is another murder?
A witty and totally addictive cozy mystery packed with intrigue and glamour. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.
When Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, she is looking forward to sipping rum cocktails clad as a pirate, watching the red-sailed boats go by and relaxing in the sea air with her good friend Dotty. But before they can raise their glasses to toast Cressida’s former flame Lord Canterbury’s engagement, he drops dead in front of the horrified guests.
The local doctor determines that Lord Canterbury was poisoned, and soon Detective Chief Inspector Andrews is on his way from Scotland Yard. But Cressida is dismayed by the murder of the intrepid explorer who once asked for her hand in marriage, and she cannot simply leave the case to the police. Together with Dotty and her little pug Ruby, Cressida searches for clues only to discover that many of the guests have a motive for murder. Did an irate journalist or a bitter fellow explorer send Lord Canterbury on his untimely final journey?
And when a young maid is found dead, floating in the shimmering waters of the cove, Cressida knows time is running out to catch the killer. Could a clue hidden among some rather pungent crab sandwiches help her solve the case before there is another murder?
A witty and totally addictive cozy mystery packed with intrigue and glamour. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2023
538 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 3, 2023
This book opens enticingly with a fancy dress party where a principle guest is murdered by poison. Cressy has her work cut out to discover what is going on, even with the help of her trusty pug, Ruby. This is the second book in the series and it is every bit as much fun as the first one was.
The detective who we met in the first book turns up to investigate and he seems more inclined to call upon Cressy's help than before. The mystery is good, the characters well portrayed, and the whole book is a fun read. I also enjoyed the Cornish setting and the beautiful cover. Definitely well worth reading!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The detective who we met in the first book turns up to investigate and he seems more inclined to call upon Cressy's help than before. The mystery is good, the characters well portrayed, and the whole book is a fun read. I also enjoyed the Cornish setting and the beautiful cover. Definitely well worth reading!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 7, 2023
Cressida and her good friend Dotty, along with Ruby the pug, arrived at Penbeagle House, Cornwall, for a week of entertainment and fun. Leading was a fancy dress ball, so they were suitably donned on arrival. Cocktails were flowing when suddenly Lord Randolph Canterbury dropped to the floor, dead from poisoning. Cressy was shocked but his fiance, Selina, fainted from the sight. It wasn't long before Scotland Yard's Inspector Andrews arrived to take charge, along with his side-kick Kirby.
With Cressy searching for clues, Dotty telling her to be careful and Andrews trying to stop her while running his own investigation, it was still a dreadful sight to see one of the maids also dead. Would they find the killer before they struck again?
Death by a Cornish Cove is the 2nd in the Cressida Fawcett Mysteries by Fliss Chester, and I didn't enjoy it as much as the first in the series unfortunately. But the setting of Cornwall was delightful, the authenticity of the rich and famous of the era was good, and Ruby was always up to mischief. Recommended for fans of historical cosy mysteries.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With Cressy searching for clues, Dotty telling her to be careful and Andrews trying to stop her while running his own investigation, it was still a dreadful sight to see one of the maids also dead. Would they find the killer before they struck again?
Death by a Cornish Cove is the 2nd in the Cressida Fawcett Mysteries by Fliss Chester, and I didn't enjoy it as much as the first in the series unfortunately. But the setting of Cornwall was delightful, the authenticity of the rich and famous of the era was good, and Ruby was always up to mischief. Recommended for fans of historical cosy mysteries.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2023
Cressida Fawcett is looking forward to enjoying what promises to be a lovely ball. In this second book in the Cressida Fawcett Mystery series, our intrepid young woman dons her amateur sleuth hat for the second time in this entertaining cozy mystery series. The party is barely underway when her former beau Lord Canterbury suddenly drops dead right in front of everyone attending.
As a doctor is also present at the party, it is quickly determined that Lord Canterbury’s death was caused by poison. No doubt foul play is responsible and Cressida is determined to find the killer. It doesn’t take Cressida long to discover that more than one guest at the ball could have wanted him dead. Although the suspect pool is limited, the killer could be any number of people. Then, a second murder occurs and Cressida, along with Detective Chief Inspector Andrews, knows that they must act quickly before yet another person is killed.
Along with conferring with Andrews, Cressida also bounces ideas off of her good friend Dotty, who is also a guest at the party. Her adorable little pug Ruby is there as well, as cute little furbabies are pretty much a signature in these enjoyable cozy mystery stories. The 1920s setting adds extra flair to this delightful series, as rules of etiquette come into play as Cressida proceeds when it comes to searching for answers. I really loved both this and the first book in the series, Death Among the Diamonds. I very much look forward to seeing what Cressida gets into next.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/o6yZi-os7Qo
As a doctor is also present at the party, it is quickly determined that Lord Canterbury’s death was caused by poison. No doubt foul play is responsible and Cressida is determined to find the killer. It doesn’t take Cressida long to discover that more than one guest at the ball could have wanted him dead. Although the suspect pool is limited, the killer could be any number of people. Then, a second murder occurs and Cressida, along with Detective Chief Inspector Andrews, knows that they must act quickly before yet another person is killed.
Along with conferring with Andrews, Cressida also bounces ideas off of her good friend Dotty, who is also a guest at the party. Her adorable little pug Ruby is there as well, as cute little furbabies are pretty much a signature in these enjoyable cozy mystery stories. The 1920s setting adds extra flair to this delightful series, as rules of etiquette come into play as Cressida proceeds when it comes to searching for answers. I really loved both this and the first book in the series, Death Among the Diamonds. I very much look forward to seeing what Cressida gets into next.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/o6yZi-os7Qo
March 24, 2023
3.5 stars.
Cressida, her friend Dotty, and Cressida's beloved pug Ruby head to a costume party at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast. It's owned by the Trevelyans, whose wealth is from a business importing items from the Far East and Egypt. The Trevelyan's daughter is soon to be married by one of Cressida's former beaux Lord Canterbury. But, before the engagement can be announced, Lord Canterbury dies of poisoning.
Cressida has just recently solved a mystery(in book one), and she quickly notes the nasty whisperings around her. Cressida decides that she will suggest DCI Andrews from Scotland Yard to investigate, and she'll poke her nose in also, as she'll have much easier access to the Lords and Ladies involved than Andrews will.
Soon, a new body is found, and with the location's history of piracy and rumours of illegitimate Trevelyans, Cressida has more than enough motives to confuse the whole situation.
So, Cressida is more interesting than I expected. She's a good observer, has a way with people, and though she tends to be more adventurous at times when caution would serve her better, she does root out who is actually responsible.
What kept taking me out of the novel was the fact that the Trevelyans' wealth is dependent on in some cases literal grave robbery in Egypt, as well as who knows what practices they use to find and import items from Hong Kong. The cultural impact is never considered in the book, which is no doubt true to the sentiments of the people of the time, but I could not stop thinking about it.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Cressida, her friend Dotty, and Cressida's beloved pug Ruby head to a costume party at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast. It's owned by the Trevelyans, whose wealth is from a business importing items from the Far East and Egypt. The Trevelyan's daughter is soon to be married by one of Cressida's former beaux Lord Canterbury. But, before the engagement can be announced, Lord Canterbury dies of poisoning.
Cressida has just recently solved a mystery(in book one), and she quickly notes the nasty whisperings around her. Cressida decides that she will suggest DCI Andrews from Scotland Yard to investigate, and she'll poke her nose in also, as she'll have much easier access to the Lords and Ladies involved than Andrews will.
Soon, a new body is found, and with the location's history of piracy and rumours of illegitimate Trevelyans, Cressida has more than enough motives to confuse the whole situation.
So, Cressida is more interesting than I expected. She's a good observer, has a way with people, and though she tends to be more adventurous at times when caution would serve her better, she does root out who is actually responsible.
What kept taking me out of the novel was the fact that the Trevelyans' wealth is dependent on in some cases literal grave robbery in Egypt, as well as who knows what practices they use to find and import items from Hong Kong. The cultural impact is never considered in the book, which is no doubt true to the sentiments of the people of the time, but I could not stop thinking about it.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my review.
January 9, 2023
Another fine episode in the "lives of the 1920s rich and aristocratic." Cressida is fun to read about and it's nice to catch up with her pals as people drop like flies around her. That said, as I read I found myself noticing how "cookie cutter" the plot and characters were in this series. Moreover, the mystery is paper-thin and not particularly hard to solve. To be fair, these faults didn't stop me from enjoying the story, but don't expect anything new or fresh. However, if you're the kind of person, like me, who can watch Poirot movies over and over, you'll probably like this book.
January 10, 2023
This is a light and very entertaining series. Cressida and her dog are likeable characters and I had fun in reading this story.
The historical background is vivid, there's plenty of twists and I liked the solution even if it wasn't hard to guess the culprit
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
The historical background is vivid, there's plenty of twists and I liked the solution even if it wasn't hard to guess the culprit
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
February 20, 2023
Cressida, her friends and siblings Dorothy (Dotty) and Alfred and her little pug Ruby are enjoying the fancy dress party (masquerade ball) at Penbeagle House, Cornwall, home of family friends. As her hosts are announcing the engagement of their daughter, Selina, to Egyptologist Lord Canterbury, Randolph Canterbury dropped to the floor, dead from poisoning. Cressy recommended the family call Scotland yard and ask for Inspector Andews, so it isn't long before he and his side-kick Kirby arrive to take over the investigation.
Cressy began investigating on her own and soon learns everyone there has a motive. She shares what she knows with the police, but even being warned to let them do the investigating, she can't stop herself. When there is another murder, Cressy and the police step up their questioning. Are there two murders or are these cases connected? Would they find the killer before they struck again?
Death by a Cornish Cove is the 2nd in the Cressida Fawcett Mysteries by Fliss Chester, and I enjoyed the mystery and the setting a lot. The secondary characters were not very likable and the motives varied. Protagonist, Dress I'd a is very smart and great at puzzling things out. She works well with Andrews, solving the case, but not taking the credit. I wasn't sure who the killer was, but was not surprised at the reveal, as the Culprit was on my radar. There are more than one crime involved and I liked how it all comes together. Ruby is always getting into something, making me smile, and stumbling onto clues along the way. I enjoyed the descriptions of the rich and famous of the era, their attitudes and activities and thought it was quite accurate. If you enjoy a good historical mystery, or a good cozy, then I recommend you pick up Death by a Cornish Cove.
Cressy began investigating on her own and soon learns everyone there has a motive. She shares what she knows with the police, but even being warned to let them do the investigating, she can't stop herself. When there is another murder, Cressy and the police step up their questioning. Are there two murders or are these cases connected? Would they find the killer before they struck again?
Death by a Cornish Cove is the 2nd in the Cressida Fawcett Mysteries by Fliss Chester, and I enjoyed the mystery and the setting a lot. The secondary characters were not very likable and the motives varied. Protagonist, Dress I'd a is very smart and great at puzzling things out. She works well with Andrews, solving the case, but not taking the credit. I wasn't sure who the killer was, but was not surprised at the reveal, as the Culprit was on my radar. There are more than one crime involved and I liked how it all comes together. Ruby is always getting into something, making me smile, and stumbling onto clues along the way. I enjoyed the descriptions of the rich and famous of the era, their attitudes and activities and thought it was quite accurate. If you enjoy a good historical mystery, or a good cozy, then I recommend you pick up Death by a Cornish Cove.
February 12, 2023
“There’s no reason at all to think that this party will end in murder, Cressida thought to herself sternly. But a few hairs prickled at the back of her neck, and she shivered the feeling off. Why, that’s just the sea breeze, surely?”
My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Death by a Cornish Cove’ by Fliss Chester. I was also invited to take part in their publication week blog tour. This is my stop.
This is Book 2 in this series of historical cosy mysteries set in Britain during the mid-1920s. It features the Hon. Cressida Fawcett, an independently minded young woman. While she enjoys a privileged life she has a keen interest in interior design and recently undertook a touch of amateur sleuthing at a country house party.
Now she and her best friend, Dotty (Lady Dorothy Chatterton) are motoring down to Cornwall in her red Bugatti for a grand fancy dress ball hosted by Lord and Lady Trevelyan at Penbeagle House. Cressida and Dotty are staying on for a week’s holiday.
They arrive at the party dressed as pirates, accompanied by Cressida’s pug, Ruby, in a feathered parrot costume. But Cressida gets a shock when Randolph, Lord Canterbury, is at the ball. He is her former beau - a lauded Egyptologist, who had gifted Cressida with the pug puppy, Duchess Incarnadine Rose, now thankfully renamed Ruby.
Cressida had rejected his marriage proposal though now learns that he and Selina Trevelyan are engaged. Her pride is a little pinched as “a tiny part of her would have been gratified if he’d waited just a little longer and not already found his way into the affections of one of her friends.”
There’s a great deal of partying until oh dear it ends as Cressida had feared in a murder…. She begins to investigate while everyone waits for Scotland Yard Detective Inspector Andrews to arrive from London. She hopes that he will be more amenable to her help following their encounter in ‘Death Among the Diamonds’ or will he instruct her to not poke “her aristocratic nose” into matters? Yet has any police detective ever restrained a determined amateur sleuth in a historical cosy? I think not.
As expected I warmed more to Cressida in this second outing. I especially appreciated her concern for her dear friend, Dotty, who herself is a wonderful character.
Overall, this delightful historical cosy mystery confirmed that this is a series that I will be following. I especially enjoy its Jazz Age setting and the sophistication and independence of Cressida. I shall certainly be on the look out for Book 3.
My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Death by a Cornish Cove’ by Fliss Chester. I was also invited to take part in their publication week blog tour. This is my stop.
This is Book 2 in this series of historical cosy mysteries set in Britain during the mid-1920s. It features the Hon. Cressida Fawcett, an independently minded young woman. While she enjoys a privileged life she has a keen interest in interior design and recently undertook a touch of amateur sleuthing at a country house party.
Now she and her best friend, Dotty (Lady Dorothy Chatterton) are motoring down to Cornwall in her red Bugatti for a grand fancy dress ball hosted by Lord and Lady Trevelyan at Penbeagle House. Cressida and Dotty are staying on for a week’s holiday.
They arrive at the party dressed as pirates, accompanied by Cressida’s pug, Ruby, in a feathered parrot costume. But Cressida gets a shock when Randolph, Lord Canterbury, is at the ball. He is her former beau - a lauded Egyptologist, who had gifted Cressida with the pug puppy, Duchess Incarnadine Rose, now thankfully renamed Ruby.
Cressida had rejected his marriage proposal though now learns that he and Selina Trevelyan are engaged. Her pride is a little pinched as “a tiny part of her would have been gratified if he’d waited just a little longer and not already found his way into the affections of one of her friends.”
There’s a great deal of partying until oh dear it ends as Cressida had feared in a murder…. She begins to investigate while everyone waits for Scotland Yard Detective Inspector Andrews to arrive from London. She hopes that he will be more amenable to her help following their encounter in ‘Death Among the Diamonds’ or will he instruct her to not poke “her aristocratic nose” into matters? Yet has any police detective ever restrained a determined amateur sleuth in a historical cosy? I think not.
As expected I warmed more to Cressida in this second outing. I especially appreciated her concern for her dear friend, Dotty, who herself is a wonderful character.
Overall, this delightful historical cosy mystery confirmed that this is a series that I will be following. I especially enjoy its Jazz Age setting and the sophistication and independence of Cressida. I shall certainly be on the look out for Book 3.
February 10, 2023
Welcome to a world of 1920s glamour and style
Skilfully portrayed to engage you for a while.
Add in Cressida Fawcett, a feisty heroine,
Your onto a story that's sure to win!
Cressida stays at Penbeagle House in Cornwall
Travelling there to attend a fancy dress ball.
She takes her good friend Dotty along, too,
Anticipating a fun week with decorating plans to do.
However, there's a murder and a killer to be found
And Cressida is determined to run them to ground.
With DCI Andrews brought in to investigate
Cressida searches for clues, she just can't wait!
Get ready for a victim with many possible killers
And other potential victims, its a real chiller.
Cressida's dog, Ruby, has serious roles to play
In helping Cressida solve the crime her own way.
There are great characters in this cosy crime book
And it is a fun read, definitely worth more than just a look.
I really enjoyed reading it and now look forward to
Reading more in this series - I hope you'll enjoy it too!
Skilfully portrayed to engage you for a while.
Add in Cressida Fawcett, a feisty heroine,
Your onto a story that's sure to win!
Cressida stays at Penbeagle House in Cornwall
Travelling there to attend a fancy dress ball.
She takes her good friend Dotty along, too,
Anticipating a fun week with decorating plans to do.
However, there's a murder and a killer to be found
And Cressida is determined to run them to ground.
With DCI Andrews brought in to investigate
Cressida searches for clues, she just can't wait!
Get ready for a victim with many possible killers
And other potential victims, its a real chiller.
Cressida's dog, Ruby, has serious roles to play
In helping Cressida solve the crime her own way.
There are great characters in this cosy crime book
And it is a fun read, definitely worth more than just a look.
I really enjoyed reading it and now look forward to
Reading more in this series - I hope you'll enjoy it too!
February 2, 2023
Lots of mysterious things going on has main character, Cressida, trying to figure out what exactly happened.
Why was there a murder at the seaside party she is attending? Its up to amateur sleuth Cressida to solve the mystery.
A delightful cozy mystery that will keep you engaged with lots of drama, humor and quirky moments. Throw in the pug, Ruby, to add another layer of fun to the story.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
Why was there a murder at the seaside party she is attending? Its up to amateur sleuth Cressida to solve the mystery.
A delightful cozy mystery that will keep you engaged with lots of drama, humor and quirky moments. Throw in the pug, Ruby, to add another layer of fun to the story.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
January 20, 2023
I love historical mysteries especially those set in this period of time. The fact that it was in beautiful Cornwall was an added bonus. The characters and conversation felt authentic to the setting and it was an enjoyable read. I liked how different characters were responsible for the many illegal activities going on.
The only problem for me was that the identity of the killer itself wasn't that mysterious.
The only problem for me was that the identity of the killer itself wasn't that mysterious.
June 21, 2023
An engaging read set in the flamboyant 1920’s. Full of twists and turns! I admit I had my suspicions who the murderer was but hadn’t fully guessed. Fun characters, beautiful setting and great storyline. Very enjoyable.
Thanks you Netgalley
Thanks you Netgalley
October 2, 2025
this is an enjoyable series - and if you can avoid the eye rolls caused by an inept DCI from Scotland Yard (but such a nice character) and Cressie, who is a natural born detective and solves the crimes for the DCI, you will find yourself caught in the story and swept away to the gilded age of London.
Read
January 12, 20242 1/2⭐️
February 24, 2025
Rather like the interactions between the two siblings and Cressida. I was aware of the murderer before I realized it and "Poppy's" appearance. I came for the murder and stayed for the relationship interactions with Dottie, (and George), Alfred, and Cressida. Quite entertaining. Started Book 3 though I will say I DO very much like the narrator for books one and two.
February 10, 2023
I'm a big reader of cosy historical mysteries, and from the cover design and description, I hoped that this would be my kind of book.
I really liked this. I warmed to Cressida quickly, and some of the other characters made me chuckle. I was reminded of T.E. Kinsey's books, but also Wodehouse, partly because of the dialogue. This book was charming and filled the craving for a cosy mystery that I often experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
I really liked this. I warmed to Cressida quickly, and some of the other characters made me chuckle. I was reminded of T.E. Kinsey's books, but also Wodehouse, partly because of the dialogue. This book was charming and filled the craving for a cosy mystery that I often experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
February 10, 2023
There’s just something about a cozy mystery set in the 1920s that I find delightfully appealing. Verity Bright, Ann Sutton, Fliss Chester, I love them all. This, the second in Chester’s Cressida Fawcett series, carries on in fine fashion.
Here we find Cressida off to a country house on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, along with her friend Dotty and her pug Ruby. The lady of the house, Lady Trevelyan, has asked Cressida to lend some decorating expertise while she’s there, so Cressy is expecting nothing more than drinks and dancing, and maybe some time spent discussing design ideas and color schemes. What she doesn’t expect is that Randolph, who once proposed marriage to Cressy and whose engagement to Selina Trevelyan is cause for celebration, won’t survive the weekend.
Fliss Chester does a wonderful job of creating a setting I’d love to just step into! I’ve never been to Cornwall, but her descriptions of it certainly make me want to visit. And I do love her characters. Cressida may be an independent young woman, but she’s got a good heart. She cares more for her friends and doing the right thing than abiding by what social niceties might expect of her.
Ruby the pug is a treat. I love stories with animal sidekicks, and Ruby snuffles around in adorable pug fashion. Here she has a couple of run-ins with the Trevelyans’ Siamese cat, and she literally pokes her nose into things that give Cressida some insights into the crime she’s investigating.
DCI Andrews and his sergeant from Scotland Yard are on the scene, so Cressy isn’t fending for herself against an unknown killer. I appreciate that Andrews is conducting a proper police investigation, while acknowledging that Cressida may have access to conversations that people wouldn’t have with the police. He doesn’t just hand the investigation over to a civilian, but he does allow for some assistance to come from someone outside the force.
And there’s no shortage of suspects for Cressida to investigate. From Trevelyan cousin Jago Trengrouse, to Roscoe the gardener, to maid (and another Trevelyan cousin) Morwenna, to someone else looking to make a name in the antiquities trade, to Selina Trevelyan herself, everyone seems to have had a spat with Randolph on the day he died. Cressida is kept busy chasing down one lead after another.
There’s a bit of romance here, too. In the first book, Dotty’s relationship with Basil ended badly, and her heart was broken. Here there’s a glimmer that perhaps all hope on the romance front is not lost. And Dotty’s brother Alfred knows that Cressida values her independence, but he may carry a bit of a torch for her anyway. Will a romance blossom for Cressida and Alfred in later books? We’ll see!
So we’ve got Bright Young Things, a fancy-dress ball, an unexpected death involving the upper crust of society. Is it maybe a tiny bit formulaic? Sure. Does that matter? Not at all. Cressida Fawcett is a charming heroine, her friendship with Dotty is true, and the mystery is engaging. It’s a lovely, light, escapist read that transports me to a time and place outside of my daily life, and that’s what a good story does! Five stars for pure, unadulterated fun.
Here we find Cressida off to a country house on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, along with her friend Dotty and her pug Ruby. The lady of the house, Lady Trevelyan, has asked Cressida to lend some decorating expertise while she’s there, so Cressy is expecting nothing more than drinks and dancing, and maybe some time spent discussing design ideas and color schemes. What she doesn’t expect is that Randolph, who once proposed marriage to Cressy and whose engagement to Selina Trevelyan is cause for celebration, won’t survive the weekend.
Fliss Chester does a wonderful job of creating a setting I’d love to just step into! I’ve never been to Cornwall, but her descriptions of it certainly make me want to visit. And I do love her characters. Cressida may be an independent young woman, but she’s got a good heart. She cares more for her friends and doing the right thing than abiding by what social niceties might expect of her.
Ruby the pug is a treat. I love stories with animal sidekicks, and Ruby snuffles around in adorable pug fashion. Here she has a couple of run-ins with the Trevelyans’ Siamese cat, and she literally pokes her nose into things that give Cressida some insights into the crime she’s investigating.
DCI Andrews and his sergeant from Scotland Yard are on the scene, so Cressy isn’t fending for herself against an unknown killer. I appreciate that Andrews is conducting a proper police investigation, while acknowledging that Cressida may have access to conversations that people wouldn’t have with the police. He doesn’t just hand the investigation over to a civilian, but he does allow for some assistance to come from someone outside the force.
And there’s no shortage of suspects for Cressida to investigate. From Trevelyan cousin Jago Trengrouse, to Roscoe the gardener, to maid (and another Trevelyan cousin) Morwenna, to someone else looking to make a name in the antiquities trade, to Selina Trevelyan herself, everyone seems to have had a spat with Randolph on the day he died. Cressida is kept busy chasing down one lead after another.
There’s a bit of romance here, too. In the first book, Dotty’s relationship with Basil ended badly, and her heart was broken. Here there’s a glimmer that perhaps all hope on the romance front is not lost. And Dotty’s brother Alfred knows that Cressida values her independence, but he may carry a bit of a torch for her anyway. Will a romance blossom for Cressida and Alfred in later books? We’ll see!
So we’ve got Bright Young Things, a fancy-dress ball, an unexpected death involving the upper crust of society. Is it maybe a tiny bit formulaic? Sure. Does that matter? Not at all. Cressida Fawcett is a charming heroine, her friendship with Dotty is true, and the mystery is engaging. It’s a lovely, light, escapist read that transports me to a time and place outside of my daily life, and that’s what a good story does! Five stars for pure, unadulterated fun.
March 7, 2023
Try to avoid the rather chatty blurb, which gives away a major plot twist too many and would definitely spoil your enjoyment. Once again, I was swept away by Cressida’s gung-ho attitude to life – the kind of assurance that comes from being born into a rich, titled family. I also like the fact that she has determined to hang onto her independence and is reluctant to get married. After all, she has an income of her own, a lovely little car that takes her everywhere and the companionship of her adored pug, Ruby – why would she want to throw that all up for a husband?
The beginning of the book sees her zooming around the small, twisting Cornish roads far too fast in the company of her dear little dog and her best friend, Dotty, who is terrified by her very erratic driving. They are off to one of the social events of the year – the annual fancy dress ball at Penbeagle House. However the fun and frolics soon come to an abrupt stop when Cressida’s former suitor, Lord Canterbury, drops dead in the midst of the crowded party. Cressida fears the fit young man has been poisoned and the local doctor in attendance agrees with her.
Cressida summons DCI Andrews from Scotland Yard to come and investigate, but in the meantime, she is determined to do a bit of sleuthing before he arrives. Andrews isn’t as hostile to her interference as you’d think, because there is family history – Andrews went through the war with Cressida’s father. While Lord Canterbury seems an amiable young man, it appears that he had managed to run up a long list of people who have a grudge against him. I liked the list of suspects, which meant there were plenty of red herrings in play. I also like that Chester knows her history of the time – and that while women of a certain class with a drug addiction might not be regarded as ideal, it wasn’t the disgrace you might think. After all, within living memory opiates had been freely available over the counter as medicines for the kinds of nervous complaints common among upper class women, often as a consequence of being very confined within rigid societal expectations. I appreciated Chester’s nod to the darker consequences of those expectations within the story – and liked how she resolved the issue.
All in all, this is an engaging, enjoyable read, full of incident and some humour. Ruby, the little dog, also features constantly. I love how it never crosses Cressida’s mind that her rather spoilt little pug might not be welcomed by everyone. Recommended for fans of cosy whodunits in a 1920s setting, featuring a feisty heroine who could certainly be labelled a flapper. While I obtained an audiobook arc of Death by a Cornish Cove from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
9/10
The beginning of the book sees her zooming around the small, twisting Cornish roads far too fast in the company of her dear little dog and her best friend, Dotty, who is terrified by her very erratic driving. They are off to one of the social events of the year – the annual fancy dress ball at Penbeagle House. However the fun and frolics soon come to an abrupt stop when Cressida’s former suitor, Lord Canterbury, drops dead in the midst of the crowded party. Cressida fears the fit young man has been poisoned and the local doctor in attendance agrees with her.
Cressida summons DCI Andrews from Scotland Yard to come and investigate, but in the meantime, she is determined to do a bit of sleuthing before he arrives. Andrews isn’t as hostile to her interference as you’d think, because there is family history – Andrews went through the war with Cressida’s father. While Lord Canterbury seems an amiable young man, it appears that he had managed to run up a long list of people who have a grudge against him. I liked the list of suspects, which meant there were plenty of red herrings in play. I also like that Chester knows her history of the time – and that while women of a certain class with a drug addiction might not be regarded as ideal, it wasn’t the disgrace you might think. After all, within living memory opiates had been freely available over the counter as medicines for the kinds of nervous complaints common among upper class women, often as a consequence of being very confined within rigid societal expectations. I appreciated Chester’s nod to the darker consequences of those expectations within the story – and liked how she resolved the issue.
All in all, this is an engaging, enjoyable read, full of incident and some humour. Ruby, the little dog, also features constantly. I love how it never crosses Cressida’s mind that her rather spoilt little pug might not be welcomed by everyone. Recommended for fans of cosy whodunits in a 1920s setting, featuring a feisty heroine who could certainly be labelled a flapper. While I obtained an audiobook arc of Death by a Cornish Cove from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
9/10
May 31, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Death by a Cornish Cove is the second Cressida Fawcett historical cozy by Fliss Chester. Released 9th Feb 2023, it's 276 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The first book in the series is also currently available on KU, and a third book is due out in late second quarter 2023 (June .
This is a beautifully rendered historical cozy featuring flapper Cressy Fawcett and her sidekick (a pug) named Ruby. It's set in interwar (1920's) England and protagonist Cressida is a lot more enamored of her independence and her motorcar than in finding a husband and settling down (egads!). She's drawn into mayhem (again) and danger (yet again) when she and Dotty motor to Cornwall for a country house weekend with lots of fizz, sun, sea, and murder. Civilized repartee joins up with a genteel cast of characters, secrets and skullduggery. The author seems to hit her stride in this second installment and the mystery, if a tiny bit predictable, is very well constructed and the prose is easy to read and breezy.
It's sure to appeal to fans of the original Golden Age authors (Christie, Marsh, Sayers, Allingham, and the others sadly departed). It's not an absolute dead ringer for their work (how could it be?), but it's satisfying and diverting nevertheless. With two books currently in the series and another due in June, it would also be a good choice for a buddy/mini-binge read.
Four stars. The language is squeaky clean and the violence is off page. It's civilized and fun (and Ruby the dog is wonderful).
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Death by a Cornish Cove is the second Cressida Fawcett historical cozy by Fliss Chester. Released 9th Feb 2023, it's 276 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The first book in the series is also currently available on KU, and a third book is due out in late second quarter 2023 (June .
This is a beautifully rendered historical cozy featuring flapper Cressy Fawcett and her sidekick (a pug) named Ruby. It's set in interwar (1920's) England and protagonist Cressida is a lot more enamored of her independence and her motorcar than in finding a husband and settling down (egads!). She's drawn into mayhem (again) and danger (yet again) when she and Dotty motor to Cornwall for a country house weekend with lots of fizz, sun, sea, and murder. Civilized repartee joins up with a genteel cast of characters, secrets and skullduggery. The author seems to hit her stride in this second installment and the mystery, if a tiny bit predictable, is very well constructed and the prose is easy to read and breezy.
It's sure to appeal to fans of the original Golden Age authors (Christie, Marsh, Sayers, Allingham, and the others sadly departed). It's not an absolute dead ringer for their work (how could it be?), but it's satisfying and diverting nevertheless. With two books currently in the series and another due in June, it would also be a good choice for a buddy/mini-binge read.
Four stars. The language is squeaky clean and the violence is off page. It's civilized and fun (and Ruby the dog is wonderful).
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
January 11, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Death by a Cornish Cove, the second novel to feature the Hon. Cressida Fawcett, set in 1925.
Cressy and her friend Dot have traveled to Penbeagle House in Cornwall for house stay and fancy dress party, but the festivities are halted when one of the guests drops dead. Lord Canterbury, an old flame of Cressy’s, was about to get formally engaged to the daughter of the house, Selina Trevelyan when he died, and the doctor thinks he was poisoned. Once again Cressy is working with DCI Andrews to solve the case.
I thoroughly enjoyed Death by a Cornish Cove, which is a fun read with a good mystery attached. Who knew there could be so much crime in a Cornish country house? Because it’s not just murder to be uncovered.
The novel is told entirely from Cressy’s point of view and as she has a rather hedonistic approach to life there is much drink consumed and even more socialising. This, however, is her public face and how she gets much of her information and gossip, underneath this bright young thing facade is a sharp mind and a desire for justice. She works well with DCI Andrews, he supplies the facts, she supplies the background and her fertile mind pulls them together. It’s all fun.
The plot is lighthearted with Cressy asking all sorts of questions and building her store of knowledge, like a rich, young, glamorous Miss Marple. I guessed one of the perpetrators, but for the wrong crime so I won’t be showing off my crime fighting badge any time soon. Never mind, I was glued to the pages as I followed her investigation and clues. It made me laugh, it made me think and it entertained me enormously. What more could a reader ask for?
Death by a Cornish Cove is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Cressy and her friend Dot have traveled to Penbeagle House in Cornwall for house stay and fancy dress party, but the festivities are halted when one of the guests drops dead. Lord Canterbury, an old flame of Cressy’s, was about to get formally engaged to the daughter of the house, Selina Trevelyan when he died, and the doctor thinks he was poisoned. Once again Cressy is working with DCI Andrews to solve the case.
I thoroughly enjoyed Death by a Cornish Cove, which is a fun read with a good mystery attached. Who knew there could be so much crime in a Cornish country house? Because it’s not just murder to be uncovered.
The novel is told entirely from Cressy’s point of view and as she has a rather hedonistic approach to life there is much drink consumed and even more socialising. This, however, is her public face and how she gets much of her information and gossip, underneath this bright young thing facade is a sharp mind and a desire for justice. She works well with DCI Andrews, he supplies the facts, she supplies the background and her fertile mind pulls them together. It’s all fun.
The plot is lighthearted with Cressy asking all sorts of questions and building her store of knowledge, like a rich, young, glamorous Miss Marple. I guessed one of the perpetrators, but for the wrong crime so I won’t be showing off my crime fighting badge any time soon. Never mind, I was glued to the pages as I followed her investigation and clues. It made me laugh, it made me think and it entertained me enormously. What more could a reader ask for?
Death by a Cornish Cove is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
February 9, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review Death by a Cornish Cove. All opinions and comments are my own.
What “Bright Young Thing” in the 20’s would turn down an invitation to a fancy dress ball? Author Fliss Chester’s heroine Cressida Fawcett is only too happy to pop into her Bugatti and drive to Cornwell for the big bash. What that means for our purposes is that a body (or two) probably won’t be far behind. And the glittering soiree at Penbeagle House is happy to oblige, the site for music, merriment, and murder.
This is the second book in the series, and already “Cressy” has established herself as someone who likes to “assist the police with their inquiries.” So, readers are on the case immediately when there’s a suspicious death - handy, that. There’s plenty of obvious suspects already, even Cressida herself, but that doesn’t last long; DCI Andrews (from the first book, Death Among the Diamonds) has come along to officially sort everything out.
Death by a Cornish Cove has characters that stand out from each other and provide fodder for the plot. Using their stories, the glimpses of Upper-Class English Life Between the Wars are well done, underscoring the existence of a lot of societal snobbishness. Some modern tropes sneak in, perhaps because the author thinks her audience will be comfortable/used to them/won’t notice, but it’s a minor quibble. In any event, the dialog keeps the story rolling along, and there’s enough drama to keep readers guessing.
The book concludes with a “drawing room scene” in which a newly complicated plot with some added twists and turns is uncomplicated very neatly by Cressy, using Inspector Andrews as her thinking foil, making the local police forces very happy and bringing justice for the murder case. Cressida Fawcett can jump back into her Bugatti and go on to her next murder scene, uh, adventure.
What “Bright Young Thing” in the 20’s would turn down an invitation to a fancy dress ball? Author Fliss Chester’s heroine Cressida Fawcett is only too happy to pop into her Bugatti and drive to Cornwell for the big bash. What that means for our purposes is that a body (or two) probably won’t be far behind. And the glittering soiree at Penbeagle House is happy to oblige, the site for music, merriment, and murder.
This is the second book in the series, and already “Cressy” has established herself as someone who likes to “assist the police with their inquiries.” So, readers are on the case immediately when there’s a suspicious death - handy, that. There’s plenty of obvious suspects already, even Cressida herself, but that doesn’t last long; DCI Andrews (from the first book, Death Among the Diamonds) has come along to officially sort everything out.
Death by a Cornish Cove has characters that stand out from each other and provide fodder for the plot. Using their stories, the glimpses of Upper-Class English Life Between the Wars are well done, underscoring the existence of a lot of societal snobbishness. Some modern tropes sneak in, perhaps because the author thinks her audience will be comfortable/used to them/won’t notice, but it’s a minor quibble. In any event, the dialog keeps the story rolling along, and there’s enough drama to keep readers guessing.
The book concludes with a “drawing room scene” in which a newly complicated plot with some added twists and turns is uncomplicated very neatly by Cressy, using Inspector Andrews as her thinking foil, making the local police forces very happy and bringing justice for the murder case. Cressida Fawcett can jump back into her Bugatti and go on to her next murder scene, uh, adventure.
February 13, 2023
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and this sequel is just as fun! (You can read my review of Death Among the Diamonds here).
The mystery starts off with a dress-up ball and it doesn’t take long for the murder and mayhem to begin. The fact that the murder victim is Cressida’s ex-boyfriend makes this case personal and soon Cressida, along with her adorable pug Ruby and her good friend Dotty, are on the hunt for clues and suspects.
Trying to sift through the party guests motives and alibis and doing her best not to upset Detective Chief Inspector Andrews from Scotland Yard, Cressida has her work cut out for her.
I really enjoy historical fiction cozy mysteries because along with the gorgeous settings and clothes, the society and etiquette rules of the time make things extra interesting to me.
Cressida continues to be a delightful main character – she is independent, persistent, and intelligent. Her sense of fun is infectious – instead of opting for a more traditionally feminine costume, she shows up at the ball dressed as a pirate – and you can tell she would be the life of any party. She smartly walks that fine line of being a “modern woman” in a society still abiding by strict moral rules but you can see that her attitude makes her stand out. It’s also great to see her relationship with Dotty and DCI Andrews continue to develop from the first book.
This is another fun outing with Cressida and this series is definitely fast becoming a favourite.
* Thank you to the publisher, Bookouture, for providing me with an e-copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
The mystery starts off with a dress-up ball and it doesn’t take long for the murder and mayhem to begin. The fact that the murder victim is Cressida’s ex-boyfriend makes this case personal and soon Cressida, along with her adorable pug Ruby and her good friend Dotty, are on the hunt for clues and suspects.
Trying to sift through the party guests motives and alibis and doing her best not to upset Detective Chief Inspector Andrews from Scotland Yard, Cressida has her work cut out for her.
I really enjoy historical fiction cozy mysteries because along with the gorgeous settings and clothes, the society and etiquette rules of the time make things extra interesting to me.
Cressida continues to be a delightful main character – she is independent, persistent, and intelligent. Her sense of fun is infectious – instead of opting for a more traditionally feminine costume, she shows up at the ball dressed as a pirate – and you can tell she would be the life of any party. She smartly walks that fine line of being a “modern woman” in a society still abiding by strict moral rules but you can see that her attitude makes her stand out. It’s also great to see her relationship with Dotty and DCI Andrews continue to develop from the first book.
This is another fun outing with Cressida and this series is definitely fast becoming a favourite.
* Thank you to the publisher, Bookouture, for providing me with an e-copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 17, 2023
Death by a Cornish Cove by Fliss Chester
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
A seaside party at a Cornish mansion with plenty of fizz, what could be more perfect? But something fishy is afoot… a killer lurks among the guests, and only Cressida Fawcett can stop them.
When Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, she is looking forward to sipping rum cocktails clad as a pirate, watching the red-sailed boats go by and relaxing in the sea air with her good friend Dotty. But before they can raise their glasses to toast Cressida’s former flame Lord Canterbury’s engagement, he drops dead in front of the horrified guests.
The local doctor determines that Lord Canterbury was poisoned, and soon Detective Chief Inspector Andrews is on his way from Scotland Yard. But Cressida is dismayed by the murder of the intrepid explorer who once asked for her hand in marriage, and she cannot simply leave the case to the police. Together with Dotty and her little pug Ruby, Cressida searches for clues only to discover that many of the guests have a motive for murder. Did an irate journalist or a bitter fellow explorer send Lord Canterbury on his untimely final journey?
My Opinion
Like the previous book in the series, Cressida is invited to a ball where one of the attendees ends up murdered. This is a quick and cosy mystery with some very likeable characters. Set in the 1920s there are many twists and turns in Cressida's investigations. Cressida Fawcett is an amateur detective that everyone can enjoy.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
A seaside party at a Cornish mansion with plenty of fizz, what could be more perfect? But something fishy is afoot… a killer lurks among the guests, and only Cressida Fawcett can stop them.
When Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, she is looking forward to sipping rum cocktails clad as a pirate, watching the red-sailed boats go by and relaxing in the sea air with her good friend Dotty. But before they can raise their glasses to toast Cressida’s former flame Lord Canterbury’s engagement, he drops dead in front of the horrified guests.
The local doctor determines that Lord Canterbury was poisoned, and soon Detective Chief Inspector Andrews is on his way from Scotland Yard. But Cressida is dismayed by the murder of the intrepid explorer who once asked for her hand in marriage, and she cannot simply leave the case to the police. Together with Dotty and her little pug Ruby, Cressida searches for clues only to discover that many of the guests have a motive for murder. Did an irate journalist or a bitter fellow explorer send Lord Canterbury on his untimely final journey?
My Opinion
Like the previous book in the series, Cressida is invited to a ball where one of the attendees ends up murdered. This is a quick and cosy mystery with some very likeable characters. Set in the 1920s there are many twists and turns in Cressida's investigations. Cressida Fawcett is an amateur detective that everyone can enjoy.
Rating 4/5
March 29, 2023
Cressida Fawcett travels to Cornwall with her friend Dotty and dog Ruby for a fancy dress ball. During the party, Cressida's former beau Randolph Canterbury keels over and dies. The local police believe he was poisoned so Cressida wants to help catch the killer...
Death by a Cornish Cove is the second book to feature Cressida Fawcett. I have not read the first book and there are mentions of events but no spoilers.
Cressida has slightly mixed emotions as she meets up with Randolph again as he prepares to celebrate his engagement to another woman. When she discovers he was murdered, she persuades the local police to invite DCI Andrews from Scotland Yard to investigate. Based on their previous encounter, she hopes that he will allow her to join in with the hunt for the killer.
The writing style is warm and brings Cressida's character to life. She is very determined and at times finds herself a little frustrated at being confined by the 1920s social expectations. I enjoyed the inclusion of her dog Ruby which added extra touches of humour.
I felt that the historical and geographical setting were authentic and the author has researched the era and area well. As expected from a cosy murder mystery, there is no violence or forensic detail. I liked the traditional feel to the book with the focus on looking for clues and interviewing suspects as the method to conduct the investigation (ah, the days before forensics and technology!)
Death by a Cornish Cove is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
Death by a Cornish Cove is the second book to feature Cressida Fawcett. I have not read the first book and there are mentions of events but no spoilers.
Cressida has slightly mixed emotions as she meets up with Randolph again as he prepares to celebrate his engagement to another woman. When she discovers he was murdered, she persuades the local police to invite DCI Andrews from Scotland Yard to investigate. Based on their previous encounter, she hopes that he will allow her to join in with the hunt for the killer.
The writing style is warm and brings Cressida's character to life. She is very determined and at times finds herself a little frustrated at being confined by the 1920s social expectations. I enjoyed the inclusion of her dog Ruby which added extra touches of humour.
I felt that the historical and geographical setting were authentic and the author has researched the era and area well. As expected from a cosy murder mystery, there is no violence or forensic detail. I liked the traditional feel to the book with the focus on looking for clues and interviewing suspects as the method to conduct the investigation (ah, the days before forensics and technology!)
Death by a Cornish Cove is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
February 6, 2023
3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Fairly cookie-cutter cozy mystery set in Cornwall.
1) Independence-loving, society-shunning ahead of her time heroine - check
2) a pet full of mischief - check
3) fancy dress ball - check
4) high tea and titled guests - check
Cressida Fawcett investigates murder, betrayal and treachery in her aristocratic society. It's an okay book I think, more of a drift-through read than one that requires deep concentration.
The book follows the standard pattern of murder mysteries interviewing everyone involved and discovering lots of people may have had a motive for murder. I suppose in this book there's more than one murder and innocence more than one type of crime being committed, so it is fairly layered.
We start with the murder of Lord Randolph Canterbury who is murdered on the night his engagement is to be announced.
For some reason I really did not like the descriptions and activities of Cressida's dog. Was more annoying than cute to me. I think a little bit of a missed opportunity in terms of exploiting the beauty of Cornwall. The descriptions of the place weren't particularly fascinating or fetching. The police officers that arrived at the halfway point of the book were ineffective for the most part. They weren't any memorable character.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.
Fairly cookie-cutter cozy mystery set in Cornwall.
1) Independence-loving, society-shunning ahead of her time heroine - check
2) a pet full of mischief - check
3) fancy dress ball - check
4) high tea and titled guests - check
Cressida Fawcett investigates murder, betrayal and treachery in her aristocratic society. It's an okay book I think, more of a drift-through read than one that requires deep concentration.
The book follows the standard pattern of murder mysteries interviewing everyone involved and discovering lots of people may have had a motive for murder. I suppose in this book there's more than one murder and innocence more than one type of crime being committed, so it is fairly layered.
We start with the murder of Lord Randolph Canterbury who is murdered on the night his engagement is to be announced.
For some reason I really did not like the descriptions and activities of Cressida's dog. Was more annoying than cute to me. I think a little bit of a missed opportunity in terms of exploiting the beauty of Cornwall. The descriptions of the place weren't particularly fascinating or fetching. The police officers that arrived at the halfway point of the book were ineffective for the most part. They weren't any memorable character.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 9, 2023
When Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast for a fancy-dress ball, she is looking forward to relaxing in the sea air with her good friend Dotty & of course her dog Ruby. But before they can raise their glasses to toast Lord Randolph Canterbury’s engagement, he drops dead in front of the horrified guests. The local doctor determines that Lord Canterbury was poisoned, and soon Detective Chief Inspector Andrews is on his way from Scotland Yard. Cressida searches for clues only to discover that many of the guests have a motive for murder. When a young maid is found dead, floating in the shimmering waters of the cove, Cressida knows time is running out to catch the killer
The second outing for Cressida & it’s easily read on its own. A well written entertaining read with plenty of twists & turns as well as some red herrings. I really like Cressida & love Ruby’s antics I also like DCI Andrews who was more open to letting Cressida help. The Cornish location was well described. My only quibble was that I worked out who the villain was quite early in the book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second outing for Cressida & it’s easily read on its own. A well written entertaining read with plenty of twists & turns as well as some red herrings. I really like Cressida & love Ruby’s antics I also like DCI Andrews who was more open to letting Cressida help. The Cornish location was well described. My only quibble was that I worked out who the villain was quite early in the book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 8, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Death by a Cornish Cove by Fliss Chester is a thrilling murder mystery that takes place at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast. Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at the mansion for a fancy-dress ball, but before they can even start the party, Lord Canterbury drops dead in front of everyone. Cressida, along with her friend Dotty and her pug Ruby, start their own investigation to uncover the killer among the guests. The story is well-paced, and the mystery was well-crafted, leaving readers guessing until the end.
The setting and time period of this book add an extra layer of charm to the story. The writing is top-notch, making it an enjoyable read from beginning to end. The cover perfectly represents what’s inside - a thrilling murder mystery set against the backdrop of a beautiful coastal location.
Cressida remains a likable character throughout and her little pug Rudy adds some delightful moments to the story. Overall, Death by a Cornish Cove is highly entertaining and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries with cleverly crafted plots. I am eagerly looking forward to book three in this series!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
Death by a Cornish Cove by Fliss Chester is a thrilling murder mystery that takes place at Penbeagle House on the Cornish coast. Cressida Fawcett is invited to stay at the mansion for a fancy-dress ball, but before they can even start the party, Lord Canterbury drops dead in front of everyone. Cressida, along with her friend Dotty and her pug Ruby, start their own investigation to uncover the killer among the guests. The story is well-paced, and the mystery was well-crafted, leaving readers guessing until the end.
The setting and time period of this book add an extra layer of charm to the story. The writing is top-notch, making it an enjoyable read from beginning to end. The cover perfectly represents what’s inside - a thrilling murder mystery set against the backdrop of a beautiful coastal location.
Cressida remains a likable character throughout and her little pug Rudy adds some delightful moments to the story. Overall, Death by a Cornish Cove is highly entertaining and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries with cleverly crafted plots. I am eagerly looking forward to book three in this series!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
January 26, 2023
I really enjoyed this previous book in this series (Death Among the Diamonds), so I was keen to get my hands on Death by a Cornish Cove.
Cressida, Ruby, and Dotty attend a fancy dress ball in Cornwall, where one of the guests drops dead. Naturally, they investigate!
This book was very enjoyable to read. There’s a good balance between the fun elements, and the mystery. I loved spending more time with Cressida and Ruby, and the way that Ruby often assists the investigation.
The plot was great, with plenty of suspects, and a confusion of clues. It all came together neatly at the end, and I hadn’t guessed the murderer before the big reveal.
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting historical cosy crime, this one’s a pippin. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
Cressida, Ruby, and Dotty attend a fancy dress ball in Cornwall, where one of the guests drops dead. Naturally, they investigate!
This book was very enjoyable to read. There’s a good balance between the fun elements, and the mystery. I loved spending more time with Cressida and Ruby, and the way that Ruby often assists the investigation.
The plot was great, with plenty of suspects, and a confusion of clues. It all came together neatly at the end, and I hadn’t guessed the murderer before the big reveal.
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting historical cosy crime, this one’s a pippin. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
February 27, 2023
I'm a big fan of Fliss Chester's Fen Churche series and I really wanted to love the Cressida Fawcett books too. While I enjoyed the first book, Death Among the Diamonds, I didn't quite love it as much as I do the Fen Churche books. I'm pleased to report that this was not the case with this second book, I loved it.
This time Cressida finds herself witnessing the death of a gentleman who had previously proposed to her. She hadn't got any feelings of regret for turning him down, but still liked him and wants to find out who is behind his murder.
I really enjoyed this books as it unfolded. Cressida isn't an obvious sleuth, but she has a knack of to the bottom of what happened and why someone might have been killed. I didn't manage to completely solve this one, although I'd picked up a few clues along the way.
Overall a great read and I can't wait for the next in the series.
This time Cressida finds herself witnessing the death of a gentleman who had previously proposed to her. She hadn't got any feelings of regret for turning him down, but still liked him and wants to find out who is behind his murder.
I really enjoyed this books as it unfolded. Cressida isn't an obvious sleuth, but she has a knack of to the bottom of what happened and why someone might have been killed. I didn't manage to completely solve this one, although I'd picked up a few clues along the way.
Overall a great read and I can't wait for the next in the series.
February 9, 2023
Cressida, Dotty and Ruby (the Pug) are back for another Roaring Twenties adventure!
They've arrived at Penbeagle House, Cornwall, for some fun including a fancy dress ball. But then Lord Canterbury dropped dead from poisoning.
Cressida's "favourite" detective from Scotland Yard, Inspector Andrews, arrives to take control with the able assistance of Kirby. Having dealt with the Inspector before Cressida knows just how to run her own investigation under his nose!
I enjoyed the setting in Cornwall as I've visited a few times and I felt like i was right there with them. Great portrayal of the wealthy and noble of the time and as always I loved reading about the cars and so on. Great way to escape into your head for a few hours for Agatha Christie mystery type fans.
They've arrived at Penbeagle House, Cornwall, for some fun including a fancy dress ball. But then Lord Canterbury dropped dead from poisoning.
Cressida's "favourite" detective from Scotland Yard, Inspector Andrews, arrives to take control with the able assistance of Kirby. Having dealt with the Inspector before Cressida knows just how to run her own investigation under his nose!
I enjoyed the setting in Cornwall as I've visited a few times and I felt like i was right there with them. Great portrayal of the wealthy and noble of the time and as always I loved reading about the cars and so on. Great way to escape into your head for a few hours for Agatha Christie mystery type fans.
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