Review: A Killer in the Crystal Palace

“A Killer in the Crystal Palace” is the first entry in the Kier and Levett series by Deb Marlowe. Kara Levett is an independently wealthy inventor and machinist who is accused of murder after a one-armed man is found dead near her exhibit in the Crystal Palace. Niall Kier, a fellow exhibitor and metal worker, knows instinctively that Kara could not have committed the murder. They join forces to clear Kara’s name and not create a scandal that would doom the Exposition.

It took me some time to get to know the characters, but once I did, I found them enjoyable and entertaining. There are a number of strong and interesting female characters in the story that I hope will continue to be part of the world of Kier and Levett. Both Kara and Niall clearly have secrets that I am looking forward to uncovering. 

If you like historical mysteries, check out this series!

Review: A Newlywed's Guide to Fortune and Murder

In Dianne Freeman’s upcoming foray into London Society, Frances Hazelton, aka the Countess of Harleigh, is settling into married life with her new husband George. Both soon find themselves working on sensitive issues that lead back to the same family. But how and WHY are a missing journal and an old woman’s mysterious illness connected? Frances and George race to find out  before it’s too late.

In “A Newlywed’s Guide to Fortune and Murder” the reader gets another delightful peek into the lives of Frances and George. There is much to like about this cozy series. Frances is still full of spunk, her conversations with George have a good give and take, and the supporting characters add even more wit and pizazz. In addition to a mystery involving Egyptian antiquities, and possible poisonings, Frances and George negotiate their new life together, including what to do about the sizable sum settled upon them by Frances’ father after their wedding.

This book is great for those who love cozy historical mysteries and cozy historical mystery series. There is enough background information that it could be enjoyable even if the reader hasn’t gone through the rest of the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced reader’s copy of “A Newlywed’s Guide to Fortune and Murder” in exchange for review consideration. All opinions are my own.