Historical Mystery Lovers discussion
General
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Introductions Re-Boot!
Mod
Kurland St. Mary's is a wonderful series. I hope you enjoy it.
Mod
I hope you enjoy the group and March's featured author.
Just joined and have been in a historical mystery slump! I love my historical mysteries, but for some reason just haven't been able to find any that have peaked my interest of late. I'm looking forward to seeing what you all suggest and will be picking up March's book to start with. So happy to have found this group and look forward to a whole new stack of books to read! Chat with you all soon!One more question, do you all differentiate between cozy historical mysteries and historical mysteries? I list them differently on my GR homepage, but not sure how you all list them.
Mod
In answer to your question - no, we do not differentiate between them. For the purpose of this group and its challenges, we consider any book containing a mystery and set at least 50 years in the past or published at least 50 years in the past as a historical mystery. It does not matter if the book has cozy or even paranormal elements.
Lauren wrote: "Welcome Kymm!In answer to your question - no, we do not differentiate between them. For the purpose of this group and its challenges, we consider any book containing a mystery and set at least 50..."
Thank you for clarifying this for me. I was curious if there was a line or where that line crossed. I can't wait to chat with everyone and of course add to my TBR list with all the great recommendations I'm going to get here!
HiMy name's Jacqui and I just joined the group and I'm looking foward to seeing what everyone is reading.
I'm a prolific reader of all kinds of mysteries but I do like the historical ones most.
My favourites at the moment are the Savernake Mysteries by Susanna M Newstead set in the reign of King John and the Clara Fitzgerald Mysteries by Evelyn James set in post World War I Brighton.
Nice to be here and look forward to discussing books
Welcome, Jacqui. I'm a fan of the Clara Fitzgerald series, too.
Thanks Lauren and Helen, I'm glad to be here.
Hello, I’m Christine, and mystery has always been my favourite genre. I read the Sherlock Holmes series as a kid, and recently got re-acquainted with this genre through Lady Darby series by Anne Lee Huber. Looking forward to being in this group and meeting readers with a shared interest!
Hi, Christine!If you're looking for new authors to explore, check out the list of features ones here (suggested by members), along with the other threads of course.
Mod
I’m Christine, and mystery has always been my favourite genre. ."
Welcome to the group, Christine!
I've really enjoyed the Lady Darby series.
Hi! I'm Joel and I am excited to join the discussion group. I read historical mysteries taking place in the first half of the 20th Century (I know that is crazy specific), as well as I enjoy reading traditional golden age mysteries (Christie's Poirot, Sayers' Wimsey and Carr's Dr Fell, etc). My three favorite historical mystery authors are Iona Wishaw (Lane Winslow series), Sulari Gentill (Rowland Sinclair) and Anna Lee Huber (Verity Kent). I just received the new Verity Kent 5 and that is the current book I am reading. I live in Ohio and like finding out about new authors. I also like visiting mystery bookstores when I travel.
Hello everyone, I’m Laur from Colorado, USA. Have always enjoyed historical mysteries - and are even made better when you can learn something truly relevant about the time period, language or people. Put a great mystery in the mix - I’m hooked!! If we’re not already friends, feel free to send me a friend request, because I am interested on your thoughts and reviews for especially this genre!
Mod
Hope you have a wonderful time with us and be sure to check out the yearly challenge. There is still time to join in the fun!
Lauren wrote: "Welcome to the group Joel and Laur!Hope you have a wonderful time with us and be sure to check out the yearly challenge. There is still time to join in the fun!"
Thank you!
Hi I’m Cassie~I like to read cozy mysteries with quirky characters and great banter! I prefer stories with more humor and wit than romance, but a little romance is ok. I just started reading again after a loooong break, so I’m open to suggestions on good cozy historical mysteries. I live in southern Indiana with my 2 Ragdoll cats, who protest when I’m reading. My boy cat loves to chew on my books !
Right now I’m exploring historical mysteries that take place in other countries and cultures. I read the first 3 in Rhys Bowen’s Her Royal Spyness series and I really enjoyed them.Currently I’m trying to read as many new 1st books in the series as possible rather than sticking to just one series at a time.
Mod
I am sure that you will receive many recommendations. I also suggest looking at our featured authors section for new books and series.
Cassie wrote: "Hi I’m Cassie~I like to read cozy mysteries with quirky characters and great banter! I prefer stories with more humor and wit than romance, but a little romance is ok. I just started reading again ..."I'll list a few of my favorites that may meet your criteria.
The Silver Pigs, set in ancient Rome with a wise-cracking detective and romance
The Frangipani Tree Mystery, not much humor but very different setting in Singapore
Death in Delft, a bit of humor
A Useful Woman, Regency London with romantic touches
The Coroner's Lunch, another unusual setting of Laos in the 1960's
Sandy wrote: "Cassie wrote: "Hi I’m Cassie~I like to read cozy mysteries with quirky characters and great banter! I prefer stories with more humor and wit than romance, but a little romance is ok. I just started..."Thanks Sandy! I love the Siri Paiboun series , I will check out your other suggestions too.
Oh, Cassie, I could suggest quite a few, but if you want humor, here's where to start. Do note that I pretty much read books set outside the U.S.:Lady Hardcastle and Flo series by T.E. Kinsey. The first is
A Quiet Life in the CountryMaster Mercurius series by Graham Brack. First is
Death in DelftAnd then there's P.J. Fitzsimmons and Anty Boisjoly. His first book is The Case of the Canterfell Codicil.
Editing to add one more: David Stafford and his
Skelton's Guide to Domestic Poisons
Lady Hardcastle and Flo series is a good one. I second the recommendation. Beatrice Hyde-Clare by Lynn Messina is funny but might be too romance novelish for you.
Veronica Speedwell by Deanna Raybourn has plenty of humor although it's not light series and there is a core romance.
Lady Dunbridge mysteries by Shelley Noble are fun but read more 1920s than 1900s. There is no central romance but a mysterious Mr. X who keeps things spicy.
I'd make more recommendations but I think every series I read has a central romance.
QNPoohBear wrote: "Lady Hardcastle and Flo series is a good one. I second the recommendation. Beatrice Hyde-Clare by Lynn Messina is funny but might be too romance novelish for you.
Veronica Speedw..."
I’m ok with some romance but I like there to be more mystery than romance. The Her Royal Spyness series is just wonderful!
Cassie wrote: "QNPoohBear wrote: "Lady Hardcastle and Flo series is a good one. I second the recommendation. Beatrice Hyde-Clare by Lynn Messina is funny but might be too romance novelish for you..."
I like the Lady Swift series by Verity Bright. The banter between Ellie and her butler is a hoot. Some of it is a bit cheesy, but still a fun read.
A Very English Murder
Helloooooo Fellow Historical Mystery Lovers! My name is Angela and I am so happy to have found a group that has a similar love! LOL. I enjoy cozy-ish historical mysteries (both in print and via video, i.e., old movies and television shows). I'm currently watching every episode of the Dr. Blake Mysteries! I write book reviews, do beta and sensitivity readings, and I'm currently in the process of writing my very FIRST historical mystery (wish me luck). My FAVORITE historical mystery writers are Agatha Christie and, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (I know, I know... classic but WONDERFUL)! I'm trying to "up my game" and read newer authors and/or classic authors I've never had the time to read (including Walter Mosley). I hope to find more authors to read so if you guys have any suggestions, please let me know. Again, I'm so happy to be here. This should be GREAT fun!
Mod
Glad you have found us. Feel free to post what you are reading and join in the fun with our 2023 settings challenge!
Thanks, Lauren! I think I'll start by reading "On What Grounds" by Cleo Coyle. Why? It was sitting in a pile of books at a hospital noted as "free" and it looked like it needed a good home (mine). LOL. It looks like a cozy mystery. I've never heard of the author but it IS a historical mystery, so we'll see. I'll definitely look at the challenges as well. I have one more book to finish this year to achieve my personal reading challenge and this one looks like it would fit the bill. Plus, it's nice and short (270 pages). Happy Reading!
Angela wrote: "Thanks, Lauren! I think I'll start by reading "On What Grounds" by Cleo Coyle. Why? It was sitting in a pile of books at a hospital noted as "free" and it looked like it needed a good home (mine). ..."Welcome to the group and hope you try the challenge. The book looks interesting, but what makes you think it is historical? (I'm only judging from the Goodreads description.)
Cleo Coyle's coffee shop mysteries are contemporary cozies. There's a GoodReads group for that too. I haven't read them so there may be a historical element too.
Sandy wrote: "Angela wrote: "Thanks, Lauren! I think I'll start by reading "On What Grounds" by Cleo Coyle. Why? It was sitting in a pile of books at a hospital noted as "free" and it looked like it needed a goo..."Thanks for the question, Sandy. I guess I assumed it was a historical mystery (when I saw it was set in a historical coffee house); I was incorrect. Thanks for pointing that out! It still looks like a cute little cozy mystery so I guess I'll read it anyway (especially since it was free). LOL. So now, I'm off to find a HISTORICAL mystery. Happy Reading!
QNPoohBear wrote: "Cleo Coyle's coffee shop mysteries are contemporary cozies. There's a GoodReads group for that too. I haven't read them so there may be a historical element too."Hi QNPoohbear, I assumed (incorrectly) that the book was a historical mystery after I saw it was set in a historical coffee house. I'm going to still read it because it looks cute (and I do enjoy cozy mysteries, historical and contemporary). I'll definitely check out the other group but right now, my focus is on historical mysteries. Happy Reading!
Hello Angela and welcome! I have found this group to be very helpful in introducing me to new authors, such as this year's discovery of Ovidia Yu, and to motivate my reading of classic authors. In fact , despite being a huge Agatha Christie fan I did not actually read any of her work until last year! I also have Walter Mosley on my TBR list so perhaps we can challenge one another to step up our game. Congrats on beginning work with your first novel! And once again, welcome to the group.
Welcome Angela! I look forward to see what you read and if you enjoy the books!
Hi, I’m Jen and new to using a Goodreads group. I love historical fiction and cozy mysteries. “The Name of the Rose” is one of my favorite books. So I figured, why not combine those two loves, and I found this group. I’m looking forward to connecting with others and learning how to use the group function. And of course finding more good reads!
Jen wrote: "Hi, I’m Jen and new to using a Goodreads group. I love historical fiction and cozy mysteries. “The Name of the Rose” is one of my favorite books. So I figured, why not combine those two loves, and ..."Jen; Welcome! This is a great group to find new historical mysteries recommended by members.
Welcome Jen. I have found a great many good books through this group and its yearly challenge.
Hello! I'm Kit, a queer trans man from Glasgow.
Hi, Jen and Kit, and welcome to the group.
Mod
Welcome to the group, Jen!
I love the Name of the Rose. I'll never lick and turn ever again!
Mod
Welcome, Kit!
Hope you find some interesting historical mysteries in the group.
hi, I'm Saba and I sometimes pick up historical mysteries.I like them when they get the period detail right - or when they get it creatively wrong, or when I am ignorant whether they get it right or wrong ;-), and am unforgiving when they blunder - however good the mystery itself may be.
I come here to find suggestions for new and good books in the genre, including periods and places that are unknown to me.
I'm acquainted, among others, with Captain Lacey and Kate Holloway, a bit with Didius Falco and Brother Cadfael, and with the lady judge from - what? 8th century Ireland? - can't remember. But it need not be series ... on the contrary: nowadays, authors tend to flog their horses until they drop dead. Or are made to flog them by their publishers who won't relent as long as the books sell.
Mod
I too get annoyed when they get the history or details wrong, but only if I know how it should be :)
I am sure you will pick up many recommendations from our members - we love to help add to the every growing TBR pile!
Can't go wrong with the Wyndham & Banerjee mysteries by Abir Mukherjee, set in 1920s Calcutta. There are five books currently in the series, with the first being
A Rising Man. Plus the author is a great guy, a great addition to the genre. Very active on Twitter and at mystery book conferences.
I could come up with a lot more, but that's the first one that came to mind.
Hi SabaWhat time periods do you like? What kinds of blunders are you willing to forgive? Do you like cozies or gaslight or crime?
Welcome Saba! Good to see you here too. :)And welcome Jen, Kit and everyone else I missed!
QNPoohBear wrote: "Hi SabaWhat time periods do you like? What kinds of blunders are you willing to forgive? Do you like cozies or gaslight or crime?"
oh deary me ... what should I answer when I don't even know the difference between 'cozies and gaslights and crime'? ;-) And when I am totally open as to periods and places? I only know that I appreciate it when authors take the trouble to embed their stories in a broader historical background.
and to you and Michaela both -- hi and well met, again!
Cozies feature amateur sleuths in a small town or community like London Society or English Country Society or Newport, Rhode Island (among the elite) and the focus is on the character, their growth and story as they try to solve the mystery. Cozyish
A Useful Woman
Regency era lady solves problems for high society women. The stories have gotten a bit darker and more rooted in specifics as to women's rights or lack thereof.
Death Below Stairs
more rooted in specific events of the Victorian era, the plight of poor widows and swoony romance.
Cozier
Murder at the Breakers
Similar to Rosalind Thorne but not so dark, later time period and USA based.
Cozier still
A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder
Victorian era high society similar to Downton Abbey.
Coziest
The Inspector and Mrs. Jeffries a little vague as to specific year, a lot fluffy but entertaining
QNPoohBear wrote: "Cozies feature amateur sleuths in a small town or community like London Society or English Country Society or Newport, Rhode Island (among the elite) and the focus is on the character, their growth..."thanks for the genre definition by degrees ;-)
so, okay, if the Kate Holloway series (Death Below Stairs etc.) is "cozy", I like the genre. So Useful Woman sounds like a good start.
If you like Kat Holloway then you will enjoy Rosalind Thorne. More genteel but similar themes. What happens to women who have come down in the world? What happens to unprotected women? What choices do they have to make to survive? The romance is very slow burning much like Kat Holloway. Another fun series I recommend is Her Royal Spyness. They're cozy, fluffy, frothy and fun, especially when she's spying on her royal relatives. That's when I like the books the best.
The BEST BEST historical cozy series, in my opinion, is Amelia Peabody
Crocodile on the Sandbank
They're hysterically funny and everyone wants to be Amelia. I may or may not have a crush on Emerson!
Slightly darker cozyish mysteries by Deanna Raybourn
Lady Julia Grey Silent in the Grave
Julia gets rather annoying at times but I have a slight crush on Brisbane. Warning: You'll learn all about the seedy side of Victorian life.
A Curious Beginning
Veronica is rather anachronistic but I like Stoker and the mysteries are fun.
If you want to go darker, I'm sure others can help you there. I've read a few and haven't enjoyed them as much as the cozies.
I also like cozy mysteries for younger readers
Enola Holmes Nancy Springer
Aggie Morton The Body Under the Piano
Myrtle Hardcastle Premeditated Myrtle
The Wollstonecraft Detective Agency The Case of the Missing Moonstone (fun but plays fast and loose with history, putting Mary Shelley, her stepsister AND Lord Byron's children AND Charles Dickens all in the same time as children together.)
Historical Mystery Lovers
Books mentioned in this topic
A Rising Man (other topics)Murder by Misrule (other topics)
A Few Right Thinking Men (other topics)
A Rising Man (other topics)
The Frangipani Tree Mystery (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Abir Mukherjee (other topics)Sulari Gentill (other topics)
Anna Castle (other topics)
Abir Mukherjee (other topics)
Stephanie Barron (other topics)
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Welcome! I loved that series too.