Thank you to Lion Hudson Ltd | Lion Fiction and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. Because this was the sixth book in the series, I found that I was lacking a lot of the context around Poppy. I also found the book to be heavy in dialogue and lacking action. It wasn't the worst cozy mystery I read but it was just okay to me.

This is the first book by this author and sadly I found it a bit slow for my tastes. There was too much description of places and found that I was skipping too much to really enjoy this. I received this as an ARC from Netgalley and freely give my review.

I absolutely love Fiona's books and this one did not disappoint. Poppy is a fantastic character - a great lead for a book series. Can't wait for the next one!

A delightful historical mystery, The Crystal Crypt is one book you will thoroughly enjoy reading.

Well throughout-out plot and well-written characters make this a fun read as we get to know Poppy Denby. Her investigation in the mysterious death of the up-and-coming female scientist has put her in a pickle where she may be the next victim.

I loved reading this story and can't wait to read more by this author in the future.

It's the second book I read in this series and I'm loving these mysteries as they are well written and compelling.
Poppy is an interesting and fleshed out characters, the historical background is well researched and vivid, the mystery is solid and kept me guessing.
Can't wait to read the next story in this series.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

My first book from this author, and it won’t be the last. Interesting and intriguing reading.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

1920s, historical-fiction, historical-figures, historical-places-events, historical-research, misogynistic-era, misogyny, oxford, journalist, women-in-science, murder, murder-investigation, academia, amateur-sleuth*****

1925 England and a promising young female scientist appears to have died in an accident involving electricity. Or was it an accident? A friend of Poppy's asks her to look into it. Once her boss at the newspaper agrees the sleuthing begins! A very good historical read.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Lion Hudson Ltd/Lion Fiction via NetGalley. Thank you

'The Crystal Crypt' is the 6th book in the Poppy Denby detective series, a young geordie woman in the 1920s who works as an investigative journalist looking into suspicious deaths. What I like about this series is that you don't have to read the first book to know what is going on although, the latest book follows on quite nicely from 'The Art Fiasco' with reference to some of the same characters.

Like 'The Art Fiasco', 'The Crystal Crypt' is slightly predictable and convenient. Poppy Denby and her friend Delila journey to London for an academic lecture on xrays whilst meeting Sophie Blackburn (see previous book) who, conveniently,needed to speak with Poppy.

Poppy learns of the death of June, a promising young scientist. Poppy is asked to investigate June's death by Sophie as it is believed there is more to it than the final verdict. Poppy investigates on the ruse that she is writing about interesting and successful women for her newspaper column. Much like 'The Art Fiasco', 'The Crystal Crypt' is set in a time of male superiority and the idea of the Me Too movement before its time. The male characters in this book are really quite unpleasant at times and easily shows the divide between men and women. The style of the writing is very dramatic at times, Poppy has no tact and seems to frequently reveal too much information (which makes me question the validity of this character).

There are some very disturbing scenes in 'The Crystal Crypt', one I hadn't realised would feature so heavily. Women are brutally murdered or attacked in this book.

I find some of the content unbelievable at times, specifically the detail WPC divulged to Poppy about the case with June. The murderer was an unexpected twist with lots of build up and different strands. An intriguing read if you like a whodunnit.
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#thecrystalcrypt #NetGalley

The Crystal Crypt is an historical novel taking place in the years following the end of WWI in London and Oxford. The story is intriguing and twisting; it will hold most reader’s interest for several hours.

Though this is the sixth book in the series, it is the first that I have read. The focus of the book is the death of a young female scientist in Oxford, but the solution of that murder leads to the conclusion of another that occurred several years earlier. Poppy Denby is an entertainment reporter with a knack for tripping over murders. Her tabloid’s editor is willing to give her free reign as she follows the clues; he also made his own contributions to the case along with the tabloid’s lead reporter.

My only concern was that much of the last two chapters were summaries of the crime, rather than the protagonist and her crew of supporting actors actually discovering the clues and putting them together. The story also introduced the reader to WPC (Woman’s Police Constable) Rosie Winter. Only a supporting character in this book, it would seem that she could easily star in her own set of stories as she follows her dream of becoming a detective in her own right.

I give the book four-and-one-half-stars. It was a very enjoyable read.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

The Crystal Crypt is the sixth book in the Poppy Denby Investigates series. While it is a standalone mystery, many of the characters have been introduced in previous novels, and a couple of the minor plot points do refer back to hose earlier stories. However, there is a character list at the beginning of the novel for those who haven’t read all the previous stories (or who have read dozens of novels since the last Poppy Denby novel was released and needed a little reminder, ahem).

As with the previous Poppy Denby mysteries, The Crystal Crypt sets a solid mystery against a backdrop that gives insight into the culture and attitudes of the 1920s. Poppy, a female journalist, is herself a trendsetter of sorts, and in this novel she meets a female police constable while investigating the murder of a female scientist at Oxford University. Poppy therefore shows us what was considered ground-breaking science at the time, as well as showing us a woman’s place in society.

The novel is written in a somewhat distant point of view, almost omniscient. This usually frustrates me as a reader, but it works in this instance because it feels appropriate for the time setting. It gives the novel an Agatha Christie or Georgette Heyer feel, harking back to a time when bright young things were jolly and gay. Well, except for when they’re getting murdered in the workplace …

Yes, The Crystal Crypt is a murder mystery. Poppy is asked to investigate by an acquaintance who worked with the victim, Dr June Leighton, and who believes June’s death was not the accident the police claim. Poppy uses her press credentials to find out more about June’s life and death, to determine whether there was a murder … and if so, who is the culprit.

Some murder mysteries have lots of potential evildoers with means, motive, and opportunity. The Crystal Crypt has less than most, so the focus is on the investigation, and it soon becomes obvious that someone has something to hide.

I enjoyed The Crystal Crypt, as I’ve enjoyed the other novels I’ve read in the series (the ones I haven’t read are waiting on my Kindle. This is a series that can definitely be read out of order). I especially enjoyed the insights into Twenties culture, and learning a little more about the long struggle for gender quality. Recommended for mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy unique historical settings.

Thanks to Lion Fiction and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

The Crystal Crypt by Fiona Veitch Smith is another stunning story featuring Poppy Denby, ace reporter and amateur detective extraordinaire. She surrounds herself with other newspaper people that are interesting and talented. This includes her boyfriend, Daniel Rokeby, a photojournalist. Sophie, who was indeed odd, but had been the fiancée of a co-worker, had come to Poppy to ask for help. A young woman in the lab she worked in had died, mysteriously. The police had written it off as misadventure, but she thought is was murder. Could Poppy help? Sophie's fiancé had died in what appeared to be an accident, but all of them felt it had been something more and were guilty that they had not followed up. Is this what Sophie was doing now? Trying to make up for it?

Poppy is a good investigator with fabulous instincts. This was a complicated murder and she had to use all her skills to work it out. People were getting hurt, so that was a good sign that something was going on and she was getting close. There are interesting, ongoing subplots in this book including racial prejudice and the prejudice against little people, not matter how talented. There is also prejudice against Poppy, who often uses her "nosey female" reputation to its best advantage. This is such a great series: interesting and different. It is not to be missed. I recommend it: a terrific historical mystery.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Crystal Crypt by Lion Fiction, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #lionhudson #fionaveitchsmith #thecrystalcrypt

London journalist, and amateur sleuth, Poppy Denby is intrigued when she hears of the demise of an exceptionally talented female scientist. That the death occurred in Oxford and not in London presents something of a problem for Poppy but when her editor, Rollo Rolandson, agrees to fund an overnight stay at the Cherwell Hotel in Oxford, Poppy is determined to discover the secrets which surround Dr June Leighton's mysterious death.

Poppy's investigation leads her into the chauvinistic world of male scientists who seem to tolerate women on a superficial level but who really consider their female colleagues less than equal to the task of scientific advancement. I thought this part of the novel was exceptionally well done, the burgeoning world of crystallography and the tentative steps which were being made in scientific discovery is explained in an easy to understand way and doesn't detract from Poppy's convoluted investigation into Dr Leighton's death.

I've become rather fond of Poppy Denby and with each successive novel this cosy crime series just seems to get better and better. Poppy is, as ever, caught up right in the centre of the excitement, and as she goes about her investigation, she discovers something rather unsavoury about the work of the scientists who work in the Crystal Crypt. There were the usual fascinating tumble of twists and turns with Poppy forever having to keep one step ahead of the action, which is rather daring for this amateur sleuth who has the knack of getting right to the heart of the problem, but not without ruffling several inflated male egos along the way.

This talented writer brings the world of the 1920's to life in a very believable way and whilst there is a distinct feeling that things are beginning to change for women, alas it's not quickly enough, for although women are able to get their degrees, they are still very much under the supervision of men and not considered equal either by gender or ability.

Beautifully written, with both a sense of fun, and pathos, the glorious city of Oxford comes to life and thanks to the cleverly designed map, I was able to, quite literally, follow in Poppy's footsteps as she moves through the city on her hired bicycle. I enjoyed spending time with her at the Cherwell Hotel along with all the other destinations which help bring the city into clear focus.

The Crystal Crypt is a fast moving cosy crime mystery which has all the trademarks we have come to expect from this wonderful series. Poppy Denby is, by far, my favourite amateur sleuth, and I look forward to meeting her again soon.

While this is an excellent mystery that kept me guessing the whole time, I would not recommend it very highly.

The setting is wonderful, the characters are well-balanced, and I just love the attention to details that makes this 1920s English cozy mystery so true to life!

What I did not enjoy, though, was the foul language and sexual content/innuendo. It honestly surprised me that it was labeled as Christian Fiction as I would not have guessed it just based on reading it.

3 stars for excellent writing but inappropriate content

Thank you to NetGalley and Lion Fiction for providing me with a complementary e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

I received a copy of this title from the publisher; all opinions are my own. 4.75 stars rounded up to 5. This book is part of the Poppy Denby series, but I think works as a standalone. Poppy is contacted about the death of Dr. June Leighton who was working in Oxford on a mysterious project at the "Crystal Crypt". Sophie Blackburn suspects that the death is no accident despite what the police concluded and thinks Poppy can expose the truth and get some kind of justice for June. Poppy visits Oxford and quickly discovers that Sophie may have be on to something; the death just doesn't add up. Can she figure out the truth before someone silences her just like they did June?

The mystery in this one was the best one in the series to date; I didn't figure out the killer or the reason why until right before the reveal. I loved catching up with Poppy and her friends, but did wish that we got to see some of the supporting cast like Delilah and her aunt a little more. The city of Oxford was almost a character in this one and I enjoyed the look at the politics of the world of academia. I look forward to the next title in the series to get to see Poppy continue to grow in both her career and personal life.

I didn’t realise this book was within a series of books. The author has a great way of re-capping who the characters are and any previous connections they have, however, initially I found it really tricky to remember who everyone is. So if you’re interested in this series, maybe read from book 1. The book was full of detail about Oxford, although I’ve never visited I feel like I know it well now. The investigation was so thorough, I enjoyed reading about how the character were finding information in both Oxford and London. I was on the edge of my seat especially towards the end, and when I found out who did it and how I was absolutely gobsmacked.

I did not realize this was part of a series when I started reading it, but I was still able to follow along. The author does reference events from past books, so you might want to start from the beginning of the series for that reason. It was interesting to see a book that focused on a female scientist and the sexism and struggles that went with it as part of the mystery.

Set in 1920s England, this charming mystery is about Poppy Denby, intrepid tabloid newspaper journalist and amateur sleuth who investigates the death of a female scientist. Her boss, Rollo, is a very likeable character who is one of the few men of the time who sees the value and contribution of female professionals. Thankfully, Poppy's fiance is on the same page. Not only is there murder but also mayhem in spades for us crime-thirsty readers! The importance of crystals and diamonds in laboratory work and the inclusion of autistic symptoms in one of the characters are brilliant additions.

The historical bits are fascinating as are the author's notes and information on her inspiration for this particular book. Nice and personal. The character list is also a nice touch.

Historical Fiction and General Fiction readers, do get lost in this light escapist book. It is not particularly suspenseful but an enjoyable read nonetheless.

My sincere thank you to Lion Hudson Ltd. and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this enchanting book!

Maybe it is because I haven't read the previous books in the series, but I honeslty didn't feel any conection or empathy towards the charcaters :( Everything was super fast paced and there were a LOT of names to keep track of. They mystety in itself didn't draw me from the beginning so I decided to sadly dnf.
But, if you like cozy miysteries, I feel this could maybe be your cup of tea. I would suggest reading the previous books though, I felt I missed a lot of backstory.

The Poppy Debby series by Fiona Veitch Smith is a favourite of mine (and one I introduced Mum to, for a change) and so it was with excitement I tucked on to “The Crystal Crypt”! The gang is all back together and an old acquaintance of Poppy, a scientist has been killed in a university town and the investigation ruled it an accident. Poppy decides to go down and find out more about what happened under the guise of a profile on the female scientist but soon sees there is more going on than meets the eye on more than one front.

With Rollo and Ike to back her up, Poppy starts digging and before long she’s onto something, something big enough she may be in harm’s way, not that stops her in any way! It is a great mystery full of twists and turns! I am looking forward to the next one!

It’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale, I highly recommend it!

I received complimentary copy of the book from Lion Hudson Ltd Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review is completely my own.

The Crystal Crypt by Fiona Veitch Smith is a marvellous historical amateur sleuthing novel. It is the sixth book in the Poppy Denby Investigates series but can be read as a stand-alone. For me, I enjoyed catching up with familiar faces as Poppy Denby once more finds herself investigating a murder.
The novel is set in 1925 when the role of women was decidedly below that of men. Women were seen as second-class citizens, good for making the tea and looking pretty. Within the book there are strong women who are breaking out of this role. The reader meets not only Poppy as a reporter but a WPC and some female academics at Oxford. All are breaking the traditional mold of women.
As well as the women, the reader witnesses the attitudes towards disability and men of colour which horrifies the modern reader. One of my favourite scenes was of Poppy Denby forcefully acquiring a hotel room for her male colleague Ike.
The novel is mainly set within the academia of Oxford. It is very much a closed world that discourages the outsider.
Fiona Veitch Smith has marvellous descriptions of Oxford enabling the reader to ‘walk’ through the action. I particularly loved the inclusion of Blackwells as I have been there on several occasions. It is a fascinating place. I recommend a trip.
Poppy Denby reminds me of a younger version of Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple. Her amateur sleuthing is superb, like a dog with a bone, she tenaciously hangs on until the case is concluded. She is a very likable heroine.
I am thoroughly enjoying all the Poppy Denby books. I think they would translate marvellously into a Netflix series – any producers out there please take note. I am hoping there will be many more books to come.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.