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Flora Maguire Mysteries #1
Murder on the Minneapolis
NEW YORK 1900. A captivating historical drama on-board the maiden voyage of the S.S. Minneapolis featuring series character Flora Maguire. For fans of Downton Abbey.
Young governess Flora Maguire is on her way home from America on the maiden voyage of the S.S. Minneapolis with her young charge Eddy, Viscount Trent, when she discovers a dead body.
Unconvinced when the death is pronounced an accident, Flora starts asking questions, but following threats, a near drowning and a second murder, the hunt is on for a killer. Time is running out as the Minneapolis approaches the English coast.
Will Flora be able to protect Eddy, as well as herself?
Is her burgeoning relationship with the handsome Bunny Harrington only a shipboard dalliance, or something more? And what secrets must Flora keep in order to stay safe?
What readers are saying about MURDER ON THE MINNEAPOLIS:
'I'm a big fan of this author's work, so I was excited to read the first installment in her new mystery series. It did not disappoint. Along with the sparkling dialogue and likeable characters I have come to expect, I found an intriguing, page-turning "whodunnit"'
'With intrigue heaped upon intrigue [this] is certainly a great "who-dun-it" that kept my attention from start to finish'
'I was kept guessing right to the end. A great read and I will be looking out for more of this author's work'
'This is definitely a 5 star! Highly recommended'
'From the very first sentence I knew this was going to be a wonderful story. Lush and vibrant, articulate and dynamic, I can't say enough about the writing. Davison's prose is elegant and refined lending to the setting of the story. It pulls you in and won't let go'
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2015
741 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Anita Davison
22 books153 followersAuthor of the Flora Maguire Mysteries published by Aria Fiction
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
October 11, 2016
3.5 stars...
I have been insanely busy the last few weeks and due to that my reading time has been scarce at best. The end result is that it took me waaay too long to read this fun little ship-bound historical cozy. I'm afraid my experience with this book suffered a little because of it.
Having been a long-time mystery reader, I feel like many times I know exactly what is going to end up happening or who the culprit is. And, a lot of time the result is probably not the true point of the book, it's the experiences getting there. Therefore, I don't judge a book based on how quickly I think I know what happened. Especially in the cozy genre. Still, there were a few surprises in store for me at the end, and all the "stuff" in between was enjoyable! This is my first reading experience with author Anita Seymour Davison and I liked it!
A young governess, Flora, is on board the ship Minneapolis with her charge Edward, en route to England. The first day on board, she meets a lively young man nicknamed Bunny who becomes her companion throughout her shipboard escapades. Bunny is enthralled with the new invention, the automobile, and hopes to become a contending producer. Many intrigues and crimes occur, some involving those seated at their mutual dining table. Flora is considered "fanciful" when she suggests ideas about the crimes, as women often were at that era when trying to use their smarts. This a fun and enjoyable historical cozy, well-written with fun characters. It is the first in a series, and I look forward to seeing what is in store next with Flora & Bunny. There is an unresolved mystery from Flora's past that I look forward to reading more about in future installments.
**Thanks to NetGalley and Aria Publishers for an ARC to read and review!!**
I have been insanely busy the last few weeks and due to that my reading time has been scarce at best. The end result is that it took me waaay too long to read this fun little ship-bound historical cozy. I'm afraid my experience with this book suffered a little because of it.
Having been a long-time mystery reader, I feel like many times I know exactly what is going to end up happening or who the culprit is. And, a lot of time the result is probably not the true point of the book, it's the experiences getting there. Therefore, I don't judge a book based on how quickly I think I know what happened. Especially in the cozy genre. Still, there were a few surprises in store for me at the end, and all the "stuff" in between was enjoyable! This is my first reading experience with author Anita Seymour Davison and I liked it!
A young governess, Flora, is on board the ship Minneapolis with her charge Edward, en route to England. The first day on board, she meets a lively young man nicknamed Bunny who becomes her companion throughout her shipboard escapades. Bunny is enthralled with the new invention, the automobile, and hopes to become a contending producer. Many intrigues and crimes occur, some involving those seated at their mutual dining table. Flora is considered "fanciful" when she suggests ideas about the crimes, as women often were at that era when trying to use their smarts. This a fun and enjoyable historical cozy, well-written with fun characters. It is the first in a series, and I look forward to seeing what is in store next with Flora & Bunny. There is an unresolved mystery from Flora's past that I look forward to reading more about in future installments.
**Thanks to NetGalley and Aria Publishers for an ARC to read and review!!**
July 6, 2015
Flora Maguire, governess, is accompanying her young charge, Edward, back to England on the SS Minneapolis after they have attended the wedding of her employer's daughter. When she finds a man's body at the bottom of the companionway, she grows suspicious. It is said to be an accident, but could well be murder. Flora begins to look more closely at the assembled wealthy group of passengers around her. The handsome Englishman, Bunny Harrington, shows a good deal of interest in Flora, and she is drawn to him, but she is conscious that she is not of his class. As Flora probes, she is threatened herself, and almost comes to grief, then there's a second murder. Anita Seymour Davison brings some great characters to life in this novel. And she describes the era and the Minneapolis in wonderful detail. Flora makes a perfect lady detective with an interesting past, I want to learn more about. I'm looking forward to a second book in the series.
April 27, 2019
When I noticed the cover and title of this novel I was keen to read it as it suggested to me “cosy, mystery set on the ocean”. I found that there were too many characters for me to keep track of in such as busy plot. Then smaller details that could have easily been resolved with some closer attention to editing distracted me. This is a series that I will not pursue any further.
October 14, 2016
I must say I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy/historical mystery. It was well written, engaging and kept me interested right up until the end. The fact that the whole book took place on a cruise ship at sea lent a sort of "locked room" element to the mystery.
I admit I don't know much about this period in history, so I can't comment much about the historical accuracy of the details, but I did enjoy how some period elements were blended in with regards to dress, entertainment of the day and new inventions. It certainly had a nice period feel to it.
The mystery and plot itself were fairly intriguing and well developed. There was an added urgency to finding the killer because of the close quarters of the cruise ship setting. Imagine the possibility of sitting with a murderer at dinner, talking to a killer on deck, all without being any the wiser. I was kept guessing throughout most of the book, waffling between one possibility and the next, though it was all resolved cleverly in the end.
Our main sleuth and heroine, governess Flora Maguire was likeable, the right blend of inquisitive and intelligent for a cozy mystery. Her efforts to solve the crime while still looking after her young charge and dealing with passengers view of her as a second class citizen struck the right balance and tone.
The overall cast of characters was complex, with varying degrees of likeability. I can't deny wishing that one or another was the killer at various points in the story. As a whole, they enhanced the plot and the story and gave the reader lots to concentrate on and wonder about. It's kind of rare and was quite a treat that the author took the time to flesh out so many characters within the story. It also kept the plot moving and fresh despite the limited setting.
This probably would have been a five star read for me but for one point. As far as the main mystery goes, this is a self contained novel and can be read as is with a full resolution. There were however some hints as to some things in Flora's past as well as some questions about her future which were not fully resolved. While I suspect some of this might be dealt with in future books in the series, having them teased without a resolution is what dropped this book to a solid four stars for me.
Certainly an enjoyable read and a series I intend to continue reading. Thanks to NetGalley and Aria for my copy of this book.
I admit I don't know much about this period in history, so I can't comment much about the historical accuracy of the details, but I did enjoy how some period elements were blended in with regards to dress, entertainment of the day and new inventions. It certainly had a nice period feel to it.
The mystery and plot itself were fairly intriguing and well developed. There was an added urgency to finding the killer because of the close quarters of the cruise ship setting. Imagine the possibility of sitting with a murderer at dinner, talking to a killer on deck, all without being any the wiser. I was kept guessing throughout most of the book, waffling between one possibility and the next, though it was all resolved cleverly in the end.
Our main sleuth and heroine, governess Flora Maguire was likeable, the right blend of inquisitive and intelligent for a cozy mystery. Her efforts to solve the crime while still looking after her young charge and dealing with passengers view of her as a second class citizen struck the right balance and tone.
The overall cast of characters was complex, with varying degrees of likeability. I can't deny wishing that one or another was the killer at various points in the story. As a whole, they enhanced the plot and the story and gave the reader lots to concentrate on and wonder about. It's kind of rare and was quite a treat that the author took the time to flesh out so many characters within the story. It also kept the plot moving and fresh despite the limited setting.
This probably would have been a five star read for me but for one point. As far as the main mystery goes, this is a self contained novel and can be read as is with a full resolution. There were however some hints as to some things in Flora's past as well as some questions about her future which were not fully resolved. While I suspect some of this might be dealt with in future books in the series, having them teased without a resolution is what dropped this book to a solid four stars for me.
Certainly an enjoyable read and a series I intend to continue reading. Thanks to NetGalley and Aria for my copy of this book.
August 27, 2015
Murder on the Minneapolis is historical fiction writer, Anita Davison's, first venture into crime. Set aboard a trans-Atlantic steamer sailing from New York to England in the early 1900s, governess Flora Maguire and her young charge, Viscount Edward Trent (Eddy) are returning home after Eddy's sister's wedding. Thrown into the genteel, but vicious, world of the first class passenger list, Flora is an outsider and she finds herself drawn to a geeky young man 'Bunny' Harrington who is transporting a valuable motor vehicle to England in the hope of starting a new business.
It is Flora's misfortune to stumble upon a dead body on her first perambulation of the deck. The death of Parnell is viewed as an unfortunate accident but Flora is not convinced and unwittingly finds herself drawn into a world where no one is quite who they say they are and as the voyage nears its conclusion the body count begins to mount.
As a mystery, the story contained enough twists and turns to keep me totally involved and the 'reveal' came as a genuine surprise. Davison's background as a historical writer shows up in the gentle layering of research on the trans Atlantic ships and how they operated from the radio operator through to the Captain. It was not overdone but added a depth to the story.
Davison is clearly setting Flora up as an ongoing sleiuth in the best 'cosy mystery' tradition and she is an admirable protagonist. As a governess she is high enough in the world of the servant class to have direct access into the world of her betters but yet can still operate below stairs. I think as the series grows, Flora will develop new depths... and then there is the relationship with Harrington to eke out in URST!
A good, light read for lovers of cosy mysteries.
(I was provided a copy by the author for an honest review)
It is Flora's misfortune to stumble upon a dead body on her first perambulation of the deck. The death of Parnell is viewed as an unfortunate accident but Flora is not convinced and unwittingly finds herself drawn into a world where no one is quite who they say they are and as the voyage nears its conclusion the body count begins to mount.
As a mystery, the story contained enough twists and turns to keep me totally involved and the 'reveal' came as a genuine surprise. Davison's background as a historical writer shows up in the gentle layering of research on the trans Atlantic ships and how they operated from the radio operator through to the Captain. It was not overdone but added a depth to the story.
Davison is clearly setting Flora up as an ongoing sleiuth in the best 'cosy mystery' tradition and she is an admirable protagonist. As a governess she is high enough in the world of the servant class to have direct access into the world of her betters but yet can still operate below stairs. I think as the series grows, Flora will develop new depths... and then there is the relationship with Harrington to eke out in URST!
A good, light read for lovers of cosy mysteries.
(I was provided a copy by the author for an honest review)
October 1, 2016
What a delightful historical cosy mystery novel. The story's lead character Flora is a wonderful character you can not help but like. The mystery itself is terrific and I have to admitt i didn't see the twists coming. The historic elements of the story are realistic and obviously well researched. I do hope that Davison continues with this series as I would definitely read them. If you love cosy mysteries this is a must.
I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 30, 2024
Well done for a first in a cozy mystery set in 1900 aboard an ocean liner cruising towards England. Historical data was inserted seamlessly into the story. Several characters involved in the “who done it?“ which were eventually sorted out by this reader (although I don‘t think it was necessary to name a car Mathilda. I kept wondering who that character was until almost the middle of the book despite the fact that the name was introduced earlier on. 🤔
I also wondered about the governess and her lack of attention to the boy in her care. ?
Other than that it was an enjoyable clean read.
I also wondered about the governess and her lack of attention to the boy in her care. ?
Other than that it was an enjoyable clean read.
November 8, 2016
When I finished this book I felt as if I had just disembarked from a voyage on board an Edwardian passenger ship. I had not been aware that I had become so engrossed in the story.
This is an old fashioned type of mystery, much like those of Agatha Christie, yet the amount of period detail, especially that about the ship, gives the story an extra depth. The scene where the waves come crashing over the deck will stay with me for a long time.
The plot centres on governess, Flora, as she accompanies Eddy, her spirited charge, on a voyage back home to England. Flora is painfully aware that her first class ticket will not buy her acceptance among the upper class passengers, although she soon learns that several of her travelling companions are not what they seem.
Managing her precarious social standing among the other guests turns out to be the least of Flora’s worries when she discovers the body of a man who she alone believes did not die by accident. This assertion and her inquisitive nature drive her to discover more clues, another body, criminal activity and a society scandal. Yet Flora and the reader are left guessing the identity of the murderer right until the final scene.
I was surprised how involving this story became. I felt as if I really was on board the ship and mingling with the characters. When I put my Kindle down, I could still smell the sea air.
This is an old fashioned type of mystery, much like those of Agatha Christie, yet the amount of period detail, especially that about the ship, gives the story an extra depth. The scene where the waves come crashing over the deck will stay with me for a long time.
The plot centres on governess, Flora, as she accompanies Eddy, her spirited charge, on a voyage back home to England. Flora is painfully aware that her first class ticket will not buy her acceptance among the upper class passengers, although she soon learns that several of her travelling companions are not what they seem.
Managing her precarious social standing among the other guests turns out to be the least of Flora’s worries when she discovers the body of a man who she alone believes did not die by accident. This assertion and her inquisitive nature drive her to discover more clues, another body, criminal activity and a society scandal. Yet Flora and the reader are left guessing the identity of the murderer right until the final scene.
I was surprised how involving this story became. I felt as if I really was on board the ship and mingling with the characters. When I put my Kindle down, I could still smell the sea air.
October 5, 2015
I really enjoyed this cosy mystery set in the Edwardian era of steamships and genteel one-up-manship. Flora Macguire is accompanying her young upper class charge on the steamship Minneapolis, when she discovers a body. The explanation that Mr Parnell fell from the deck stairs does not sit well with Flora, who has other ideas. With the help of Bunny Harrington, a motoring nerd with whom she enjoys a burgeoning romantic attachment, she tries to discover what really went on, and if there was a murder, 'who dunnit.'
Things are made more difficult for Flora by her sense that she should not really be travelling in the 'posh' part of the steamer, as she is a governess, and therefore part of the servant class, but these considerations are pushed aside by Eddy (the boy she travels with) and Bunny, her new-found friend.
The steamship is peopled with various ghastly characters, a grasping actress, a wealthy dowager, and a young man who seems rather too interested in Flora --- they all have possible motives, and of course the killer is at large and a constant threat. I can't give much more away about the characters without ruining the plot, but I hope to have more from Flora and Bunny, and look forward to seeing their relationship develop in future sleuthing, and future books.
Things are made more difficult for Flora by her sense that she should not really be travelling in the 'posh' part of the steamer, as she is a governess, and therefore part of the servant class, but these considerations are pushed aside by Eddy (the boy she travels with) and Bunny, her new-found friend.
The steamship is peopled with various ghastly characters, a grasping actress, a wealthy dowager, and a young man who seems rather too interested in Flora --- they all have possible motives, and of course the killer is at large and a constant threat. I can't give much more away about the characters without ruining the plot, but I hope to have more from Flora and Bunny, and look forward to seeing their relationship develop in future sleuthing, and future books.
June 21, 2015
Young Flora Maguire travels on the S.S. Minneapolis from New York to England as governess to a wealthy family. Her young charge is self-sufficient, so she finds time on her hands. One morning, Flora discovers a man dead down a staircase. The ship's doctor and other ship authorities rule it an accident, but Flora thinks the man was murdered. Her instincts kick in and she starts to question people who knew the dead man, and further mysteries and tangled relationships come to the surface. To complicate matters, Flora meets a young American entrepreneur who soon shows his interest in her. Is he serious, or only looking for a quick affair? Flora suddenly finds herself in danger for delving into the murder. Will she be the next victim?
Flora is a well-rounded character in this enjoyable cozy mystery, the first in a series. She's suffered tragedy in her life stemming from her childhood, and her flaws make her human. The characters around her are well fleshed out, funny and quirky, especially Bunny Harrington, her shipboard romance. I couldn't figure out the villain until near the end of the book.
Brew a cup of tea and enjoy the cruise as a killer stalks the ship's passengers.
Flora is a well-rounded character in this enjoyable cozy mystery, the first in a series. She's suffered tragedy in her life stemming from her childhood, and her flaws make her human. The characters around her are well fleshed out, funny and quirky, especially Bunny Harrington, her shipboard romance. I couldn't figure out the villain until near the end of the book.
Brew a cup of tea and enjoy the cruise as a killer stalks the ship's passengers.
June 30, 2015
An 'Edwardian Cosy'. I won't dwell on the plot for fear of spoilers but will say that with intrigued heaped upon intrigue Murder On The Minneapolis is certainly a great 'who-dun-it' that kept my attention from start to finish. However to me personally this wasn't the main appeal.
Transported back to a golden-age of travel aboard the SS Minneapolis I loved the descriptions of life aboard ship. The snobbery, the politics of class, the relationships, the meals eaten and, oh, the characters themselves.
I relished the antics of the dreadful snob that was Mrs Penry-Jones, revelled in the feisty and yet ever so feminine Flora, loved that her blood sang in her veins whenever Bunny was near and yet stood her ground when she had to.
All in all a thoroughly good read. I can't help but wonder if we will see Flora solve yet more murders in future books. I certainly hope so.
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer: Received for review from a publicity company, no financial compensation was asked for nor given.
Transported back to a golden-age of travel aboard the SS Minneapolis I loved the descriptions of life aboard ship. The snobbery, the politics of class, the relationships, the meals eaten and, oh, the characters themselves.
I relished the antics of the dreadful snob that was Mrs Penry-Jones, revelled in the feisty and yet ever so feminine Flora, loved that her blood sang in her veins whenever Bunny was near and yet stood her ground when she had to.
All in all a thoroughly good read. I can't help but wonder if we will see Flora solve yet more murders in future books. I certainly hope so.
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer: Received for review from a publicity company, no financial compensation was asked for nor given.
June 25, 2015
A great Who-Dunnit Cozy
Murder on the Minneapolis has a boat-load of diverse characters, most of who sit at the same first class dinner table. Anyone of them could have done it. I even wondered if the doctor was innocent or guilty as he wandered about the ship, and tenaciously stuck to the story the untimely death was an accident.
Flora Maguire, a young governess in charge of Edward, is on the first class only maiden voyage of the SS Minneapolis from New York to England. She is forced into the company of the higher classes who dismiss her as someone unfit to socialize with them, but looks can deceive. When aboard a ship, you may not be who you say you are, and therein lies the question of deceit.
Flora closely watches these characters, waiting for them to possibly expose who they truly are, show their hand they had done the deed. She becomes friends with Bunny Harrington, an entrepreneur and fan of the newfangled toy, called the automobile.
Murder on the Minneapolis is rich in 1900 detail, the characters well developed, and a great way to spend an afternoon.
Murder on the Minneapolis has a boat-load of diverse characters, most of who sit at the same first class dinner table. Anyone of them could have done it. I even wondered if the doctor was innocent or guilty as he wandered about the ship, and tenaciously stuck to the story the untimely death was an accident.
Flora Maguire, a young governess in charge of Edward, is on the first class only maiden voyage of the SS Minneapolis from New York to England. She is forced into the company of the higher classes who dismiss her as someone unfit to socialize with them, but looks can deceive. When aboard a ship, you may not be who you say you are, and therein lies the question of deceit.
Flora closely watches these characters, waiting for them to possibly expose who they truly are, show their hand they had done the deed. She becomes friends with Bunny Harrington, an entrepreneur and fan of the newfangled toy, called the automobile.
Murder on the Minneapolis is rich in 1900 detail, the characters well developed, and a great way to spend an afternoon.
September 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. Set aboard a ocean liner. This book describes all the fashions of the day together with class culture and the different attitudes that people had in those days. It wasn't a thrilling book, fast-paced and exciting but, it moved along and kept me interested. This is the first in a series and I would love to read more. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 10, 2015
I liked this book so much I read it in just over two days. With a week on board ship crossing the Atlantic Flora Maguire and Bunny Harrington find themselves caught up in a murder mystery that they have to solve. And they do. This is a very satisfying cozy crime story, with clues tantalisingly strewn through out and an underlying story arc of the developing romance between Flora and Bunny. So, yes, this is probably a story that is much more for us girls than the boys. But it is gripping and pacey. However, if you are looking for something with the pace of a John Grisham or a Deaver, then you may be a little disappointed. The pace in this story is a tad more gentle, but the mystery unfolds carefully and I was kept guessing right to the end. A great read and I will be looking out for more of this author's work.
February 26, 2018
I enjoyed the story. However, I struggled with too many characters that were hard to keep straight, and the middle dragged. This book was light, fun reading. Typos and inconsistencies in the second half confused me and created a less than great reading experience. I might try the next book in the series but am not rushing to do so. The author did seem to understand the period, its history, and its social mores.
June 4, 2016
If you can get past the old school British background, it can be an enjoyable book. Who dun it? Think Murder on the Orient Express.
May 18, 2024
I love a good historical mystery and I LOVE an isolated mystery. So, when I saw this book took place in Edwardian times on a ship crossing the Atlantic, I knew I had to read it. Especially, when I saw that one of the main characters went by the name of Bunny. (One of my all-time favorite characters is Bunny Manders from Raffles: The Amateur Cracksman.) I ended up really enjoying this book. I liked both Flora and Bunny, they had good chemistry together. The mystery was well thought out and the side characters were fairly interesting. The author used the setting, of them all being trapped together on a ship for a whole week, to perfection. I'm glad I tried Davison again and found a book I enjoyed. I will probably continue on in the series.
January 2, 2024
A cozy mystery set aboard a trans Atlantic voyage in 1900 - what more could you ask for? 😇
October 16, 2025
Hard to rate this one, as the plot felt a lot more convoluted than Davison's other books. But the characters were fun.
December 8, 2017
I generously received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Flora Maguire is Governess to the young Edward, Viscount Trent who are both traveling on the maiden voyage of the SS Minneapolis from New York to London. They had attended his eldest sister's wedding with his parents and are bound for home while his parents do a tour around the United States.
Flora notices something peculiar about a man and woman who seem to be fighting about something though she soon puts the thought away while caught in the excitement of taking off from the dock and trying to get settled into her shared quarters with her young charge. When Eddy goes off to dinner, Flora walks the deck for a bit of fresh air and encounters Bunny Harrington who she finds herself drawn to.
Not even a day later, Flora is walking the promenade deck and happens to glance down at a set of narrow steps that lead to the Salon Deck and at the bottom appears to be a pile of clothing. Curious about the bundle, she moves closer and finds to her shock that it's actually a person, one of the people she noticed having a disagreement the day before and who is now dead.
A crew member shows up shortly afterwards and a Doctor is sent for and is deemed an accident. Flora is quite sure it wasn't accidental though not many seem to believe her and think she may be just experiencing shock. Determined to find out if it really was accidental or murder, Flora sets out to discover what happened and is determined to get to the bottom of things.
With her growing attraction for Mr. Harrington, keeping an eye on her young charge and trying to solve a mystery, Flora has a lot on her plate. It will take determination, a bit of luck and perseverance to juggle this combination and she just may be in over her head though Flora is not one to give up easily and just may have a few tricks up her sleeve to hopefully solve this death and catch the potential culprit.
This book was such a pleasure to read. The descriptions were so well done that I could almost imagine being on the ship and seeing the events take place. Anita really has a way with words and I found myself really liking Flora. It's amazing how just a few details can later be a big help and she could very well be a female version of Sherlock Holmes.
I also enjoyed reading about the budding romance between Bunny and Flora who were so adorable from the moment they met and give me lots of warm fuzzies.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery set mostly on a ship in the late 19th Century that has adventure, humor, romance and wonderful descriptions of life during that time, I highly recommend this book!
I'm so glad there are two other books in this series for me to enjoy and I hope there may be more in the future!
Flora Maguire is Governess to the young Edward, Viscount Trent who are both traveling on the maiden voyage of the SS Minneapolis from New York to London. They had attended his eldest sister's wedding with his parents and are bound for home while his parents do a tour around the United States.
Flora notices something peculiar about a man and woman who seem to be fighting about something though she soon puts the thought away while caught in the excitement of taking off from the dock and trying to get settled into her shared quarters with her young charge. When Eddy goes off to dinner, Flora walks the deck for a bit of fresh air and encounters Bunny Harrington who she finds herself drawn to.
Not even a day later, Flora is walking the promenade deck and happens to glance down at a set of narrow steps that lead to the Salon Deck and at the bottom appears to be a pile of clothing. Curious about the bundle, she moves closer and finds to her shock that it's actually a person, one of the people she noticed having a disagreement the day before and who is now dead.
A crew member shows up shortly afterwards and a Doctor is sent for and is deemed an accident. Flora is quite sure it wasn't accidental though not many seem to believe her and think she may be just experiencing shock. Determined to find out if it really was accidental or murder, Flora sets out to discover what happened and is determined to get to the bottom of things.
With her growing attraction for Mr. Harrington, keeping an eye on her young charge and trying to solve a mystery, Flora has a lot on her plate. It will take determination, a bit of luck and perseverance to juggle this combination and she just may be in over her head though Flora is not one to give up easily and just may have a few tricks up her sleeve to hopefully solve this death and catch the potential culprit.
This book was such a pleasure to read. The descriptions were so well done that I could almost imagine being on the ship and seeing the events take place. Anita really has a way with words and I found myself really liking Flora. It's amazing how just a few details can later be a big help and she could very well be a female version of Sherlock Holmes.
I also enjoyed reading about the budding romance between Bunny and Flora who were so adorable from the moment they met and give me lots of warm fuzzies.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery set mostly on a ship in the late 19th Century that has adventure, humor, romance and wonderful descriptions of life during that time, I highly recommend this book!
I'm so glad there are two other books in this series for me to enjoy and I hope there may be more in the future!
August 8, 2015
The SS Minneapolis; last word in luxury on a grand scale. From the outset, this story pulls you off the pier and onto the ship, mingling with the passengers and experiencing the anticipation and excitement of the start of a sea voyage; you can hear the band playing, see the colours and the crowds, and smell the salt air. Meet Flora Maguire. Instantly likeable, infinitely sympathetic.
As a governess to thirteen year-old Eddy (Viscount) Trent, and travelling alone with him, she is vulnerable to both prejudice and loneliness, but events very quickly conspire to ensure that, while the prejudice might continue among some of the other passengers with whom she finds herself sharing a table, she will never be lonely… whether she wants to be or not. She also proves herself to be resilient, courageous and with a gung-ho attitude she might well come to regret.
The discover of a dead body, early in the voyage, pulls all the varying characters together, and we are treated to sniping, fawning, back-biting, suspicion, humour, affection… a group people very much of their time, with the attitudes to match. The characters in this story are fully fleshed out, with back-stories and ideas of their own, and although the story is told from the third person, limited viewpoint of Flora herself, the reader still gets the rounded experience of learning what makes everyone ‘tick.’ Over the course of the voyage, and the investigation that follows that initial grim discovery, we grow to like characters we thought we wouldn’t, to re-think initial impressions… and this reader found herself thinking ahead to possible further books in a series based on the main characters in this one, and hoping that the ending wouldn’t preclude the possibility of meeting Flora again!
Overall this was a lovely read; tense in places, fascinating in others, and the phenomenal level of research shows in the details sprinkled throughout. Descriptions of the opulance of a ship such as this are not over-done, but give a real flavour of what it must have been like to travel on her, and to mix with a populace in the throes of great social change. Highly recommended.
As a governess to thirteen year-old Eddy (Viscount) Trent, and travelling alone with him, she is vulnerable to both prejudice and loneliness, but events very quickly conspire to ensure that, while the prejudice might continue among some of the other passengers with whom she finds herself sharing a table, she will never be lonely… whether she wants to be or not. She also proves herself to be resilient, courageous and with a gung-ho attitude she might well come to regret.
The discover of a dead body, early in the voyage, pulls all the varying characters together, and we are treated to sniping, fawning, back-biting, suspicion, humour, affection… a group people very much of their time, with the attitudes to match. The characters in this story are fully fleshed out, with back-stories and ideas of their own, and although the story is told from the third person, limited viewpoint of Flora herself, the reader still gets the rounded experience of learning what makes everyone ‘tick.’ Over the course of the voyage, and the investigation that follows that initial grim discovery, we grow to like characters we thought we wouldn’t, to re-think initial impressions… and this reader found herself thinking ahead to possible further books in a series based on the main characters in this one, and hoping that the ending wouldn’t preclude the possibility of meeting Flora again!
Overall this was a lovely read; tense in places, fascinating in others, and the phenomenal level of research shows in the details sprinkled throughout. Descriptions of the opulance of a ship such as this are not over-done, but give a real flavour of what it must have been like to travel on her, and to mix with a populace in the throes of great social change. Highly recommended.
January 4, 2017
I really enjoyed reading about the romantic relationship that developed between Flora Maguire and Bunny Harrington when they travelled from New York to England on the Minneapolis’ maiden voyage.
Flora is employed as 13 year-old Edward, Viscount Trent’s governess on what she anticipates will be an uneventful voyage.
From the moment Flora first meets Bunny, who is exporting a Panhard-Levassar Laundaulet to England, where he plans to manufacture more of the vehicle, she likes him. On the following morning she wakes up early. “What sat clearly in her mind was the charming young man, with the uninhibited laugh she had met on deck, whose vivid blue eyes had a disarming way of regarding her as though he recognised her from another place and time, although she was quite sure she had not met him before.”
While her her charge is asleep, Flora goes for a walk around the deck and discovers a corpse. Almost immediately, she suspects murder. From then on Davison skilfully weaves romance and crime until I couldn’t put the book down because I wanted to know who the murderer was, and whether Bunny and Flora would or would not part forever after they landed.
I appreciate Davison’s recreation of the ocean liner, one example of which is her evocative description of the first class dining room. “…panelled in light oak and with a stained glass ceiling that rose through the two stories in a blaze of jewel-tinted light flooded the scene below… while wide windows gazed onto the glistening ocean on one side, and tall gilt mirrors made the room appear twice its size.” After reading this I imagined the well-dressed passengers seated at the same table as Flora and Bunny.
Davison also brings to life a large cast of characters with her deft descriptions.
I enjoyed this romantic ‘who done it’ and liked Flora and Bunny so much that I look forward to reading the next novel in the series, Betrayal at Cleeve Abbey.
Flora is employed as 13 year-old Edward, Viscount Trent’s governess on what she anticipates will be an uneventful voyage.
From the moment Flora first meets Bunny, who is exporting a Panhard-Levassar Laundaulet to England, where he plans to manufacture more of the vehicle, she likes him. On the following morning she wakes up early. “What sat clearly in her mind was the charming young man, with the uninhibited laugh she had met on deck, whose vivid blue eyes had a disarming way of regarding her as though he recognised her from another place and time, although she was quite sure she had not met him before.”
While her her charge is asleep, Flora goes for a walk around the deck and discovers a corpse. Almost immediately, she suspects murder. From then on Davison skilfully weaves romance and crime until I couldn’t put the book down because I wanted to know who the murderer was, and whether Bunny and Flora would or would not part forever after they landed.
I appreciate Davison’s recreation of the ocean liner, one example of which is her evocative description of the first class dining room. “…panelled in light oak and with a stained glass ceiling that rose through the two stories in a blaze of jewel-tinted light flooded the scene below… while wide windows gazed onto the glistening ocean on one side, and tall gilt mirrors made the room appear twice its size.” After reading this I imagined the well-dressed passengers seated at the same table as Flora and Bunny.
Davison also brings to life a large cast of characters with her deft descriptions.
I enjoyed this romantic ‘who done it’ and liked Flora and Bunny so much that I look forward to reading the next novel in the series, Betrayal at Cleeve Abbey.
January 30, 2017
Since mysteries are one of my favorite genres I was excited at the opportunity to read a book by an author whose work is new to me. That’s why I selected this historical fiction by Anita Davison, Flora’s Secret.
Flora’s Secret is the story about a young governess, Flora Maguire, who is accompanying her charge Eddy Vaughn as they journey home to England on the maiden voyage of the Minneapolis. Any hope for smooth sailing is quickly abandoned when Flora finds a dead body at the bottom of stairway. Is it an accident or murder? Spunky Miss Maguire is not one to be easily deterred and will do whatever she can to get to the bottom of this man’s untimely death. Thrown into the mix is a shipboard romance with a fine gentleman Mr. Bunny Harrington.
I really enjoyed this book. The main characters well developed, interesting and very likable. The author did a great job in describing people and scenes. She gave enough details for the reader to imagine the scenes, but not too much. The characters, Flora and Bunny, where very likable; people I would want to know. I’m hopeful their story will continue in another book. Other characters were intriguing and it was fun to try and figure out who the good guys were and the bad guys were.
While this book is not from a Christian writer and publisher, I appreciated the fact that the story was told and developed without profanity and sexually explicit scenes. It’s clean historical fiction, a mystery with a bit of romance, that focused on developing characters and the storyline. This was the first book I’ve read by Anita Davison and I look forward to reading more of her books.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Aria Publishers for the opportunity to read Flora’s Secret by Anita Davison. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
Flora’s Secret is the story about a young governess, Flora Maguire, who is accompanying her charge Eddy Vaughn as they journey home to England on the maiden voyage of the Minneapolis. Any hope for smooth sailing is quickly abandoned when Flora finds a dead body at the bottom of stairway. Is it an accident or murder? Spunky Miss Maguire is not one to be easily deterred and will do whatever she can to get to the bottom of this man’s untimely death. Thrown into the mix is a shipboard romance with a fine gentleman Mr. Bunny Harrington.
I really enjoyed this book. The main characters well developed, interesting and very likable. The author did a great job in describing people and scenes. She gave enough details for the reader to imagine the scenes, but not too much. The characters, Flora and Bunny, where very likable; people I would want to know. I’m hopeful their story will continue in another book. Other characters were intriguing and it was fun to try and figure out who the good guys were and the bad guys were.
While this book is not from a Christian writer and publisher, I appreciated the fact that the story was told and developed without profanity and sexually explicit scenes. It’s clean historical fiction, a mystery with a bit of romance, that focused on developing characters and the storyline. This was the first book I’ve read by Anita Davison and I look forward to reading more of her books.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Aria Publishers for the opportunity to read Flora’s Secret by Anita Davison. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.
August 18, 2015
This is an historical mystery. The time frame is left open, but hinted at through small touches in the story. The horseless carriage is now an accepted innovation; William McKinley is campaigning for re-election as President of the United States and WWI has not yet broken out in Europe. The S.S. Minneapolis is a first-class only “Minnies” steamer traveling between America and England.
Miss Flora Maguire is accompanying her charge, Edward, Viscount Trent, back to England after the wedding of “Eddie’s” sister in America. Eddie is a typical thirteen year old boy, whose family is one of the English aristocracy. He is of an age to begin boarding school and this leaves Miss Maguire, his governess, somewhat at loose ends.
The first person they encounter on board ship is “Bunny” Harrington, a somewhat non-typical English gentleman. He is obsessed with designing and building a horseless carriage for mass production in England. There is an immediate, but subtle attraction between the two.
The fun begins when Flora finds a passenger dead at the bottom of an outside stairwell. She is convinced the man was murdered, but everyone else is just as sure it was an accident. Bunny is intrigued and becomes a staunch supporter of Flora and her theories.
This is a well done modern version of the English mysteries of that era. The characters are well defined and the pace is steady. If you think the ending is a shock, then you will have missed the subtle clues all through the narrative. This is a very entertaining read, well worth your time. 5 Stars
Miss Flora Maguire is accompanying her charge, Edward, Viscount Trent, back to England after the wedding of “Eddie’s” sister in America. Eddie is a typical thirteen year old boy, whose family is one of the English aristocracy. He is of an age to begin boarding school and this leaves Miss Maguire, his governess, somewhat at loose ends.
The first person they encounter on board ship is “Bunny” Harrington, a somewhat non-typical English gentleman. He is obsessed with designing and building a horseless carriage for mass production in England. There is an immediate, but subtle attraction between the two.
The fun begins when Flora finds a passenger dead at the bottom of an outside stairwell. She is convinced the man was murdered, but everyone else is just as sure it was an accident. Bunny is intrigued and becomes a staunch supporter of Flora and her theories.
This is a well done modern version of the English mysteries of that era. The characters are well defined and the pace is steady. If you think the ending is a shock, then you will have missed the subtle clues all through the narrative. This is a very entertaining read, well worth your time. 5 Stars
October 4, 2015
As a long time admirer of author Anita Davison, I was happy to read Murder on the Minneapolis, an historical cozy mystery. Flora Maguire is a young governess charged with escorting her employer's young son, Edwqard, back home to England via the oceanliner, The Minneapolis. It is the ship's maiden voyage and most of the passengers are wealthy, except for Flora. Once on board, she meets Bunny Harrington, a well-to-do young businessman who deals with automobiles. When Flora discovers the body of a man at the foot of the companionway, she is embroiled in the mystery and is determined to find out what happened.
This story had a bit of everything - atmosphere, mystery, romance, and suspense. I was kept guessing until the end as to the murderer and their motivation. Set on an oceanliner afloat in the international waters between North America and England, I found the story unique and intriguing. There were plenty of fascinating charaters that kept me interested throughout - a matronly ascerbic socialite, a steely doctor, and a headstrong captain, to name a few. All scenes were vividly described. The succinct writing made for a fast pace with plenty of conflict and mystery. From start to finish, I was thoroughly absorbed in the story. This is definitely a 5 star cozy mystery! Highly recommended. Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story had a bit of everything - atmosphere, mystery, romance, and suspense. I was kept guessing until the end as to the murderer and their motivation. Set on an oceanliner afloat in the international waters between North America and England, I found the story unique and intriguing. There were plenty of fascinating charaters that kept me interested throughout - a matronly ascerbic socialite, a steely doctor, and a headstrong captain, to name a few. All scenes were vividly described. The succinct writing made for a fast pace with plenty of conflict and mystery. From start to finish, I was thoroughly absorbed in the story. This is definitely a 5 star cozy mystery! Highly recommended. Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2023
Death on Board is a historical mystery set onboard a transatlantic crossing in the year 1900.
Our main character, Flora, is a governess escorting her young charge home to begin school. Unsure of herself, as her employer has purchased her a First Class ticket, Flora avoids meeting many of them until the unexpected death of a member of her table, whose body she's unfortunate to discover early one morning.
What ensues is a twisted tale of secrets and half-truths as Flora finds herself drawn into the reason behind the man's death, proclaimed as an accident, but which Flora sees in a very different light. She mingles with all those on board, from the snooty upper-class dam and her companion to the actress seeking a new life in England, as well as the handsome Bunny and his motorcar, Matilda, as she attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the murder.
Death on Board is stuffed with period details, and the mystery itself is well-constructed, with a very satisfying resolution. Fiona is a fantastic creation, as is Bunny, and while I'm not unconvinced they wouldn't have sunk the ship with the quantity of tea consumed, I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more of the series.
Our main character, Flora, is a governess escorting her young charge home to begin school. Unsure of herself, as her employer has purchased her a First Class ticket, Flora avoids meeting many of them until the unexpected death of a member of her table, whose body she's unfortunate to discover early one morning.
What ensues is a twisted tale of secrets and half-truths as Flora finds herself drawn into the reason behind the man's death, proclaimed as an accident, but which Flora sees in a very different light. She mingles with all those on board, from the snooty upper-class dam and her companion to the actress seeking a new life in England, as well as the handsome Bunny and his motorcar, Matilda, as she attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the murder.
Death on Board is stuffed with period details, and the mystery itself is well-constructed, with a very satisfying resolution. Fiona is a fantastic creation, as is Bunny, and while I'm not unconvinced they wouldn't have sunk the ship with the quantity of tea consumed, I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more of the series.
July 31, 2015
From the very first sentence I knew this was going to be a wonderful story. Lush and vibrant, articulate and dynamic, I can't say enough about the writing. Davison's prose is elegant and refined lending to the setting of the story. It pulls you in and won't let go. It's written in the British style, which takes about three seconds to get used to, and that itself lends to its elegance.
The story is part cozy mystery, part romance, part coming of age. Flora's innocence mingles with her self-preservation and the secret in her past and allows her to make decisions for her future, all while solving a murder, taking care of her charge, and falling in love.
I particularly like the budding relationship between Ptolemy (Bunny) and Flora. Davison sticks within the era and the social mores of the time. It's refreshing and very sweet.
I've heard these characters might become a series. I really hope so. I would love to spend more time in their company.
The story is part cozy mystery, part romance, part coming of age. Flora's innocence mingles with her self-preservation and the secret in her past and allows her to make decisions for her future, all while solving a murder, taking care of her charge, and falling in love.
I particularly like the budding relationship between Ptolemy (Bunny) and Flora. Davison sticks within the era and the social mores of the time. It's refreshing and very sweet.
I've heard these characters might become a series. I really hope so. I would love to spend more time in their company.
January 17, 2017
This is an exciting mew voice in the historic cozy mystery genre. As a longitmemystery and cozy reader, I found that this book was compelling, well paced, and I really like tge character of Flora, a plucky governess who will not leave well enough alone.
Typical plot devices of patronizing women's ideas and thoughts, and playing peek-a-boo with characters who are central to the plot are there but are not distracting. Many of the characters we've seen before in similar , the grumpy woman with a mousey companion, the honeymooners, the cad, and the actress. What's unique is that they way they interact and contribute to the murders solution. My mind changed many times over with twists and turns of whodunit as I read the book. and that's what made this book so good. Complex, with a budding romance, served up in a enjoyable read. I've already started the second book, it was that good.
I received this book from Net Galley in return for an unbiased review.
Typical plot devices of patronizing women's ideas and thoughts, and playing peek-a-boo with characters who are central to the plot are there but are not distracting. Many of the characters we've seen before in similar , the grumpy woman with a mousey companion, the honeymooners, the cad, and the actress. What's unique is that they way they interact and contribute to the murders solution. My mind changed many times over with twists and turns of whodunit as I read the book. and that's what made this book so good. Complex, with a budding romance, served up in a enjoyable read. I've already started the second book, it was that good.
I received this book from Net Galley in return for an unbiased review.
October 17, 2016
A delightful murder mystery aboard a ship in the Victorian era
A ship sails from New York to England on her maiden voyage with only first class passengers aboard. Appearances can be deceiving and some people have more to hide than others. When a body is discovered, a young governess accompanying her charge on the voyage plays detective and finds love during the trip.
A wonderful insight into the etiquette, dress and mannerisms of people during this era and a gripping murder mystery that keeps you guessing till the last few pages.
I will be reading Ms Davison’s next book.
Saphira
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
A ship sails from New York to England on her maiden voyage with only first class passengers aboard. Appearances can be deceiving and some people have more to hide than others. When a body is discovered, a young governess accompanying her charge on the voyage plays detective and finds love during the trip.
A wonderful insight into the etiquette, dress and mannerisms of people during this era and a gripping murder mystery that keeps you guessing till the last few pages.
I will be reading Ms Davison’s next book.
Saphira
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
January 1, 2017
This was such a fun mystery set on board an Edwardian ocean liner, en route from America to England. Our heroine is a governess who has a first class ticket, so we get to see a lot of issues with class distinctions, etc. It feels pretty reminiscent of Agatha Christie's writings to me (Murder on the Orient Express) but I like the character studies in this one much more. I hope the author will write more books with this heroine.
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