The Cleansing Flames by R.N. Morris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1892 April. It seems all to begin with the melt of the Winter Canal and the discovery of a body. But revolution is in the air and how will Magistrate Pavel Virginsky react.
An entertaining historical mystery

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The Incredible Crime by Lois Austen-Leigh
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Prudence Pinsent, daughter of the Master of Prince's College, Cambridge is asked by coastguard and old friend Captain Studde to watch out for smugglers when she visits her cousin Lord Wellende at his estate.
An enjoyable mystery

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Proof of Violence: A Spencer & Reid Mystery by Cara Devlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

D.I. Jasper Reid arrived home to find evidence that his housekeeper Mrs. Zhao had been abducted, but why and by whom. Can it relate to her past and a secret she holds. Meanwhile Leo becomes involved in Inspector Lewis's investigation into the death of a young boy.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving a

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Died in the Wool by Ngaio Marsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1942 New Zealand. Three weeks after she disappeared Flossie Rubrick's body is discovered in a bale of wool. Inspector Alleyn is asked to determine what happened.
An enjoyable historical mystery

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The Puzzle of the Pepper Tree by Stuart Palmer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hildegarde Withers is on holiday on Catalina Island. When the local plane service lands one of the nine passengers is dead. The local police and doctor proclaim a natural death, but not Miss Withers, until the corpse disappears. She has contacted detective Oscar Piper and awaits his arrival.
An entertaining historical mystery.
(First published in 1933)

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The Case of Bingley's Missing Aphrodite by Emma Aubrey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice sequel where 18 months have passed since the Bingley party left Netherfield, and with the Bennet parents dead the daughters are now mostly living in London with their cousin William Bennet. He has become an investigator, and is currently involved with Bow Street with a murder, and employed by Bingley to recover a stolen item. Darcy also becomes involved with the investigation.
An entertaining and well-written historical cozy mystery with its cast of likeable and known characters. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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Pinehurst by John Rhode
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mr Coningsworth of Pinehurst has been run over and died, by drunk drive Thomas Awdrey. So drunk he was unaware of the accident. But is all as it seems as Dr Priestley helps the police in their investigation.
An entertaining historical mystery

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The Beckoning Lady by Margery Allingham
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

The Campion family is visiting Pontisbright village for the summer when a death occurs, but why and by whom.
No one of the best stories

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Mr. Bennet's Death by Elaine Burkett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Darcy and the colonel are visiting Rosings when Darcy learns that Bennet has died. How will his behaviour and feelings towards Elizabeth change. Would have been more enjoyable to have more of the stories of the other Bennet ladies. It took too long for both Elizabeth and Darcy to consider Jane and Bingley feelings - both to self centred and selfish.
An entertaining variation.

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Storm Clouds of Love by Melanie Schertz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation where after being given the letter at Rosings Elizabeth (so perfect) is caught and hurt in a day long storm. Only to decide she was wrong about Darcy. Soon more of the Bennets arrive to stay at Rosings. Will there be happy endings for everyone.
Another enjoyable re-read.
Although there was quite a bit of repetition of events/conversations and the overly sweet not balanced by the wickedness of others.
Four stars only because of the Mary pairing

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Her Grace Revisited: A Pride & Prejudice Vagary by Shana Granderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation where a kind and worthy man, the Duke of Hertfordshire becomes intrigued by a young and clever (just too much) Elizabeth. Who with Mary were unwanted by their parents and so were raised by the Gardiners. How will this affect the fortunes of all the Bennets, their relations and friends.
An entertaining story

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Death Down the Aisle by Colleen Cambridge
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dr. John Bhatt is getting married at the family home of his fiancée, Emily Hartparker, at Coatesworth Manor. Due to their friendship Phyllida Bright has been invited. She decides to take charge, as she believes is her right, when the murder occurs of one of the guests.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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The Paris Library Murders: A 1930s Mystery by Benedict Brown
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lord Edgington and Christopher with their entourage have arrived in Paris. Home to rival ex-detective Xavier Duroc. But soon there is a death. One of Christopher's new friends.
An entertaining historical mystery

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Fragile Reputation: A Pride & Prejudice Continuation by Katelyn Rae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice sequel where Mary Bennet has been living at Pemberley this past year. Colonel Fitzwilliam is back from the war after unexpectedly inheriting an estate. He and others arrive at Pemberley for a house party. Is it time that Mary found her happy ending.
An entertaining and well-written story.

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Chantecoq and the Aviator's Crime by Arthur Bernède
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Flying ace Jacques Moret is accused of attacking a young female by his victim. This is after he, and all her family received poisoned pen letters.
The method didn't really seem plausible

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Death on the Pier by Pauline Rowson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1951, Southend-on-Sea, Essex. Inspector Alun Ryga is sent undercover to investigate the case of the disappearing body discovered by Commander Clive Cottinglea as the local police have dismissed it.
But then a body is discovered dead. Contrary to local police opinion Ryga is convinced it murder.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable and interesting main character. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own

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The Oxford Detective Society by Faith Martin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Biographer Lyssa Moore is contracted to write the story of 'wild child' Amelia 'Monty' Montrose who died in 1966. She financed a pop group, but did she also write the lyrics. Is there more that went on at the time.
An entertaining modern mystery

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The Tiger in the Smoke by Margery Allingham
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Widow Meg Elginbrodde (25) is set to marry Geoffrey Levett but receives a recent photographs of her husband. Who thought he was killed in the War. Is he still alive. She approaches Campion to find out.
An enjoyable mystery

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The Thief and the Labyrinth by Alys Clare
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

London, 1882. American p.i. Henry and Johanna McClellan approach the World’s End Bureau to locate a Bruno Schmidt, lecturer, who persuaded American Ava Werner to elope. They have traced them to London, a city unknown to them. A seemingly straightforward case which becomes complicated.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable and interesting main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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Her Grace: A Pride & Prejudice Vagary by Shana Granderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation where in 1806 the old and debauched Duke of Hertfordshire is seeking his third wife, one to give him a heir. His reputation means he must look to a country miss for a wife. He choices Elizabeth and she is forced to marry him. Her parents refuse to save her. How will,this affect the fortunes of all the Bennets, their relations and friends.
An entertaining story

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The Heiress of Northanger Abbey by Nancy Bilyeau
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1820 A Northanger Abbey sequel where twenty-two years have passed and their oldest daughter Phoebe (the heiress) is visiting Bath with Colonel Tilney and his wife, Aurelia. In a letter home Phoebe tells of her meeting with the Thorpes. Recalling her past interactions with that family she rushes to Bath with a reluctant Henry. Can Catherine protect her daughter and does she need to. Or has she let her imagination run wild once again.
An entertaining and well-written story which enters totally into the Gothic realm.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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Swan Song by Edmund Crispin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unpopular Opera singer Edwin Shorthouse is found dead, hanged in his dressing room. Gervase Fen helps the police to investigate.
An entertaining historical mystery

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The Next Mrs Bennet: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Shana Granderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation where unfortunately for Thomas Bennet, owner of Longbourn he is compromised by Fanny Gardiner. But she dies giving birth to Jane. Very soon after Bennet meets and falls for Becca, daughter of a Duke. How will this affect Jane and any future children of the Bennets.
An entertaining story

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Under The Crown: A DC Oliver Cole Mystery ( Book 2 ) by Alan Fisher
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

2015. An Elvis impersonator is discovered dead in his hotel room. Expecting to be murdered he left evidence of his ex-boss's crimes. All DC Cole needs to do is decipher the clues while the rest of the team investigate the murder.
An enjoyable mystery

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Of Silver Linings And Glad Tidings...: A Pride And Prejudice Variation by S. Neha
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation which begins a year before canon when an unfortunate occurrence with one of their friends changes the dynamics of the Bennet family. Now it is a year later and the Netherfield party and Mr Collins have arrived. How will this impact on the Bennets.
A delightful story of all of the Bennet family, especially enjoyable as the story did involve all of the daughters and not just the usual Elizabeth and Darcy interactions.
An entertaining re-read, again.

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Leaving Longbourn: A Compilation of Five Short Stories by E.A. Batten
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

1 - Finding Elizabeth
In this P&P variation, the Bennets are so desperate for an heir that they arrange a kidnapping of a gentleman's son. Unfortunately this turns out to be Elizabeth Darcy, cousin to the Darcys of Pemberley. Then Darcy visits Netherfield.
I admit that I didn't care for Mary Bennet's future pairing and so lost some interest in the story, and I would have liked to have read about the later events at Longbourn which I think would have been more interesting.
A well-written story
2 -Her Grandmother’s Wisdom
In this P&P variation, Darcy's and Elizabeth's happy ending is aided by their first meeting in Lambton four years earlier. And so the Meryton assembly becomes an enjoyable evening for them.
An entertaining short story
3 - Miss Bennet’s Adventure
In this P&P sequel Mary Bennet is invited to spend as long as she wishes at Pemberley. An invitation she is very eager to take. Soon an injured Colonel Fitzwilliam joins them but he has a secret mission to complete. Will they both get their happy ending.
A very enjoyable well-written story about my favourite JAFF couple.
4 - Hurst Knows All
A short Pride and Prejudice variation where Hurst proves he is more than a gentleman who spends his time drinking and eating. Helping Darcy to an early HEA.
A nicely written enjoyable story
5 - Storms over Hunsford.
Elizabeth while reading Darcy's letter is caught in a thunderstorm. Unfortunately she has been afraid of them since childhood. The colonel and Darcy go looking for her. Does this action change their future.
A well-written story
Overall entertaining and well-written stories, though this re-read I just read my two favourite stories again

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A Razor Wrapped in Silk by R.N. Morris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1870 St. Petersburg. Porfry Petrovich has two case to investigate. One of the missing children working in a factory who all attended a school, and the death of Yelena Polenova, fiancée of Prince Sergei.
An enjoyable historical mystery

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Christmas at The Manor: Heathcliff Lennox Investigates: A Cotswolds murder mystery by Karen Baugh Menuhin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

December 1924. At Twyecroft Manor a monoplane has been designed and being testing. But one of the two test pilots has been killed when the plane crashed into woods. An accident or murder. Lennox and Swift investigate.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its lovable main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.

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If It So Happened by S. Neha
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Two Pride and Prejjudice variations -
1. Mr Bingley lends a hand - Bingley helps Darcy and Elizabeth unite after Hunsford.
2. In Mr Darcy’s Shoes - the dead Grandmother Be et visits Elizabeth to show Darcy's development. How will this affect the future of the Bennets
Enjoyable stories

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Continental Crimes by Martin Edwards
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1. The New Catacomb - A.C.Doyle - why is Burger showing his friend Kennedy his new find.
2. A Bracelet in Bruges - A.Bennett - a bracelet is lost or is it stolen
3. The Secret Garden - G.K.Chesterton - how was a stranger murdered in a locked garden
4. The Secret of the Magnifique - E.P. Oppenheim (1912) - why do three men meet in Paris.
5. Petit-Jean - I.Hay - (1931) - A thief and spy in in Belgium in WW1
6. The Lover of St Lys - F.T. Jesse (1919)- Is there a murderers the town.
7. Popeau Intervenes - M.B.Lowndes - can ex-detective Hercules Popeau prevent a murder
8. The Perfect Murder - S. Aumonier - (1926) - Can two brothers commit the perfect murder.
9. The Room in the Tower - J.J. Farjean - An author stays at a German castle with a tower for his writing.
10. The Ten-Franc Counter - H. de Vere Stacpoole - (1926) - Who murdered Madame Bertaux
11. Have You Got Everything You Want - A.Christie - (1933) - Taking a train journey a wife is unsure of her husband's intentions.
12. The Long Dinner - H.C.Bailey - (1935) - where does searching for a disappeared painter lead.
13. The Packet-Boat Murder - J.Bell - (1951) - a recap of a closed case.
14. Villa Almirante - M.Gilbert - (1959) - a death at a house party
Enjoyable short stories

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The Widower of Pemberley: An Elizabeth and Darcy Story by Timothy Underwood
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A Pride and prejudice variation where due to the emotional damage from his first marriage Darcy is looking for a wife who is the opposite. He is starting his search in Meryton at the assembly.
An enjoyable variation

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The Sanctuary Seeker by Bernard Knight
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1194 Newly appointed Crowner Sir John de Wolfe and his two assistants have a killing to solve, that of a crusader. Found in a stream in Widecombe Village, he is finally identified as Hubert de Bonneville. But there will more bodies found.
An entertaining historical mystery. A good start tothis series.

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Bury in Haste by Jean Rowden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Minecliff 1956 Constable 'Thorny' Deepbriar finally gets a chance to detect when a young man from the village disappears. But are the other events just pranks.
An entertaining mystery

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The Prediction: A Murder Mystery by AG Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cairngorm House Golf Resort. How does a prediction placed in a locked box become true. DI Munro investigates while magician Barry Holt asks questions.
An enjoyable modern mystery

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The Harlot of St. Cecelia's by Darcy Graves
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

London, 1923. Librarian Eden Brior is accidentally locked overnight in the St. Cecelia’s Library vault with Simon Cross, only to emerge to find the police and the body of Cross's estranged actress wife.
Detective Inspector William Garrett and his team investigate but Eden decides to ask questions as she is a suspect.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Before She Knew Him: A Pride and Prejudice Short Story by Melissa Anne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation where Elizabeth Bennet with the Gardiners are touring Pemberley where she mistakes Darcy for a gardener. The conversation is overheard by the elder Darcy who then invites them to tea.
An enjoyable story

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Murder-Two by Joyce Carol Oates
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Lucille Peck is discovered brutally killed by her son Derek. Then he is charged with her murder.
Enjoyable short story

(Included in - Moment on the Edge, A: 100 Years of Crime Stories by Women edited by Elizabeth George)

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More Work for the Undertaker: A Masterful Mystery by the Queen of Crime by Margery Allingham
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

1946. Campion has been invited by Renee Roper owner of the Portminster Lodge as she is suspious about the death of two of her lodgers.
An enjoyable historical mystery

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Drood by Dan Simmons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1865 Charles Dickens is involved in a train crash near Staplehurst. In the wreckage he meets Drood and his life becomes entwined with him, and continues with Wilkie Collins.
An interestingand enjoyable story

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Moment on the Edge, A: 100 Years of Crime Stories by Women – A First-Rate Anthology of Mystery and Suspense by Elizabeth George
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Includes
1. St Patrick's Day in the morning - Charlotte Armstrong playwright Michael Brown helps a drunk female in a bar
2. The purple is everything - Dorothy Davis - During a fire Mary Gardner takes her favourite painting from the Institute
3. Money to Burn - Margery Allingham (1957)- Why dies a debt collector burn the money.
4. Irony of hate - Ruth Rendell - why the husband killed Brenda Goring
5. Wild Mustard - Marcia Muller - (1984) p.i.Sharon McCone is concerned about an old Japanese lady.
6. Jemina Shore at the Sunny Grave - Antonia Fraser - sent to make a programme she encounters murder instead
7. The case of the Pietro Andromache - Sara Paretsky - a stolen alabaster and a murder
8. Afraid All the Time - N. Packard- What is the result of Jane Baum being afraid all the time
9. A predatory woman - S. McCrumb - A child killer is released
10. Jack be Quick - Barbara Paul - Jack the Riper from poverty of Beatrice Wickham, wife of a vicar.
11. New Moon and Rattlesnakes - w.Hornsby - Lise has a plan but will it work
12. Death of a Snowbird - J.A.Jance - the effect of the discovery of an ancient pot
13. The River Mouth - L. Jance - What does it produce
14. A scandal in Winter- G.Linscott - can Holmes solve the death of Mr McEvoy of the pre ious year
15. English Autumn - American Fall - M.Walters - The American Newbergs take a holiday
Enjoyable short stories

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The Cliffs of Hertfordshire by Wade H. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this Pride and Prejudice variation - what if at the Netherfield Ball, Mary Bennet and Darcy collided - literally. What if that was Mary's breaking point after all the years suffering, emotional and mental abuse from all the family, while living as a Bennet, and she went straight over her personal cliff and left Meryton. What if it was found out that both Kitty and Lydia were 'increasing'. This is that story.
Overall this is such an enjoyable story. Another entertaining re-read. Another -re-read.

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Requiem by Lucrezia*
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A modern and long Pride and Prejudice variation which is not my usual read. But I enjoyed the story and especially the pairing of Mary Bennet. Though I would have liked more about them.
An entertaining story

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The Ghost Fleet Murders: A Homefront Sleuths Mystery by Anna Elliott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

August 1942. A busy time for the Crofter's Green's sleuths as a body of a female is discovered in the area, and is there a danger that the 'Ghost Fleet' is about to be exposed to the Germans. Also is there a double agent working in the local ENSA group. They are sent to investigate.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of very likeable and interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Death by Jewels by Shiv Saywack
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1951 Alexandra Raven, p.i. is hired is negotiate the buying of a diamond necklace once owned by a Tzarina. Her client Russian Elena Volkov. But she is not the only one looking for the necklace. Soon there are murders .
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.

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