Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A Fire at the Exhibition by TE Kinsey Series: Lady Hardcastle Mysteries #10
Published by Thomas & Mercer on September 5, 2023
Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction
Pages: 332
Format: eARC
Source: NetGalley
Goodreads
Amazon, Audible
May 1912. After the previous year’s deadly heatwave, it’s been an uneventful spring in Littleton Cotterell. Though for Lady Hardcastle and her fiercely loyal lady’s maid Flo, at least there are the provincial delights of the village’s inaugural art exhibition—and bicycle race—to look forward to. But at the exhibition opening, there’s a panicked shout of ‘Fire!’ In the confusion, the main attraction—an extremely expensive book—is stolen from under everyone’s nose, as is a valuable painting lent by Sir Hector Farley-Stroud. Then the race, which starts as a charming day out, ends in a shocking death. And to top it all off, the Farley-Strouds reveal they’re in debt and might lose their house. The sleuthing duo soon find themselves torn between a murder investigation, an art theft mystery, and trying to help their pals. All with a suspicious figure from Flo’s past, a supercilious insurance investigator, and a pair of rather bizarre treasure hunters on the loose…
Set at the turn of the century, the twentieth century, that is, during the Edwardian era, exciting things are afoot for Lady Hardcastle and Flo in their charming Gloucestershire village- an art show and a bicycle race with enthusiastic treasure hunters at the Grange. Art thievery and murder make the May Day holiday a memorable one for them.
A Fire at the Exhibition is the tenth installment in the Lady Hardcastle mysteries series that has a connected progression for those who like to see the two retired spies settling into a new pastime of murder solving, but has the advantage of each book working fine as a standalone as well.
The lady and her lady’s maid are now locally known for solving crime and the law eagerly accepts their help so they are able to plunge right into both situations and assist. The art show theft happens in the opening chapters, but the murder is many chapters later. They are stumped somewhat about the art thieves, but pick up bits as they go. There are some nice red herrings among the large range of possibilities to keep them guessing. I did guess at what happened with the theft, though I won’t lie that I had other suspicions equally strong. Now, the murder came so late in their investigations that I wasn’t sure what to think and can’t say there was a clear trail from the culprits when the ladies did spring the answer at the end.
The side venture of the treasure hunt based on a fictional historical event tied to the Grange and the Farley-Strouds was a fun addition as was the ladies new interest in biking. I love how each book features some bit of historical items like the innovative racing bikes and women’s growing participation in biking as a sport.
My absolute favorite moments are seeing ‘Tiny Servant’ shock the villains who under-estimate her by taking them down with her martial art and acrobatic ability. Flo has many skills she picked up as part of a team of British espionage agents alongside Lady Hardcastle, but her cheery friendliness and Lady H’s ‘what ho’s always fool people.
All in all, another fabulous low-key murder mystery and solid historical setting and colorful characters in combination that makes this historical cozy series one I happily recommend.
As a lifelong reader, it was inevitable that Sophia would discover book blogs and the joy of blog reviewing.Sophia is a prolific reader and audiobook listener which allows her to experience so many wonderful books, authors, and narrators.Few genres are outside her reading tastes, but her true love is fiction particularly history, mystery, sci-fi, and romance.Though, sorry, no horror or she will run like Shaggy and Scooby.
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I do mean to read this author someday.
Yes, for when you’re in a light and fun mystery mood. The historic time period and what he brings out is interesting, too.
I love the sound of this one! But I’m guessing I should probably start by reading the first book in this series, shouldn’t I?
Funny you say that, Lark. I started with book three in the series and read a few and then finally went back for the earlier ones. But, yes, at this stage, there are assumptions that the reader knows who all the surrounding characters are and about the mentions of previous cases and their lives.
Two retired spies solving crimes? Sounds like a fun premise! Glad to know they can be read as stand alones.
Yes, I started with the series three or four books in and had no trouble reading them out of order because the author gives good background to the series each time. They are light fun.
I am glad to hear you enjoyed this 10th book in the series. I still have a way to go to catch up with this series. Sounds like the series is still going strong 🙂
Its a fun series and I know you’ll enjoy the time catching up on each book, Lola. Oh yes, its still going very strong. 🙂
Nothing like hidden skills to take people by surprise! This sounds like a fun story, Sophia. I’m glad you had a good time with it! 🙂
You said it, Lashaan! I have a great time when Florence pulls out her martial arts skills and takes down the bad guys. 🙂
This sounds really good. I love historical mysteries but haven’t read anything by this author!
Oh, then you are in for a treat, Katherine. 🙂
Sounds like a very interesting mystery. I am happy that it turned out to be a solid turnout for you though. A good built mystery is always well appreciated.
Oh yeah, these are all solid reads, Renee. I anticipate each one.