Another excellent instalment of the adventures of Lady Swift - one to be consumed in one sitting, only for you to kick yourself as then you have longer to wait for the next tale. Pacy and twisty, I didn’t know where this story was going, so had to keep reading to find out.

This is a delightful cozy mystery. I started with book 18 and while I could follow the mystery I do think I missed out by not reading the books chronologically. The mystery was original and well thought out. The international and cultural components were so fun. I loved seeing the relationships in the story too.

I love these cosy crime novels. This is book 18 in the series and I am enjoying them more and more as we go along. 18 murders to solve! Poor Lady Swift always seems to get herself caught up in the most heinous of crimes and each time she shows great courage, wit and quick-thinking. This time we are away from Henley Hall staying in London and visiting the British Empire Exhibition. A little time travel takes us back to the sites and attitudes of the time. How different things were only a hundred years ago and yet you can see the seeds of change beginning to filter through as we follow each story. I love the attention that Verity Bright gives to the historical detail throughout.
Eleanor is, as always, a highly likeable character. I love her interactions with both staff, friends and acquaintances. Clifford and Hugh are equally enjoyable - how lovely to see a little more of her dashing fiancé in this story. I would love to see them spending even more time together. I also enjoyed Eleanor's stint as a governess. She really does seem to have a knack of handling any situation and getting herself out of trouble (or into it). The balloon flight was particularly enjoyable. :)
If you enjoy a light, entertaining read with likeable characters and the odd rouge thrown into the mix then I'm sure you would this comforting series - perfect escapism in a bygone world.

Verity Bright involves Lady Eleanor Swift in another murder event in Murder in Mayfair. Lady Swift is at the Empire Exhibition with her staff to see the products from the Empire. From a ride aloft in a balloon Eleanor witnesses a murder at a deserted exhibition site; as she hustles down a rope to report the incident she is confounded by a missing body and the fact her fiance Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon is in charge of the Exhibit's security and the site's foreign dignitary wants her arrested. Later she is involved with a lady whose pearl necklace is missing and she agrees to go undercover as a teacher for the lady's children. Things spin out of control as she discovers the lady has been untruthful. As usual the crimes pile up as do the bodies. Lady Swift and her butler Clifford have to find the killers/thieves to save Chief Inspector Seldon's career. Great historical cozy.

'Murder in Mayfair' is the first Lady Eleanor book I've read (thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC), so take this review and my lack of experience with the FMC in mind.

I almost stopped reading this book after the first several pages. Right away, I felt ambushed by many, sooooo many, adjectives. The overly descriptive and convoluted text, filled with flowery language, made it difficult to follow the narrative. This, coupled with the pretentious tone of the book and the FMC, made it a challenging read.

Lady Eleanor is a very curt woman. While some of her dialogue may be tongue-in-cheek, I found her approach to be rather despicable. For instance, her voice insistence on doing things her way, even if it meant disregarding others' professional responsibilities, was off-putting. While some may say she's a strong female character, from personal experience, rarely does much get accomplished just because a woman is strong and forceful, rude even. No, she is considered a bitch and gets nothing (most of the time). Eleanor could have been a badass more realistically; for instance, rather than asking for permission (AHEM: TELLING the tour guide to get bent), she could have snuck around and gone incognito (IDK - anything creative would have been more interesting).

I didn't finish this book because the language was just TOO over-the-top. I don't need descriptions, then subdescriptions, then sub-sub-descriptions, and so on. And while I don't always leave a review for the DNF books I read, this one was just so off-putting that I am compelled to, at the very least, leave feedback, as NetGalley highly encourages it. However, I am leaving a 3-star review because I didn't finish it (and in theory, it could have a fantastic middle and end), but if the book had continued as it had in the first 1/4, it would easily be a one-star review.

I hope I am in the minority here, really. There is an audience for this series, particularly those who enjoy intricate descriptions and appreciate a strong, albeit controversial, female lead. Judging by the feedback left for this book and others in the series, there are readers who find these aspects appealing. It's just very clear that I am not going to join the fan club, and I'm perfectly fine with that.

I love this series, as you’ll know if you’ve read any of my reviews of (almost) all of the previous 17 books. For some reason I’ve not read book 17 yet so when I started this one I felt like I’d forgotten just how much I enjoy this series.

This book is a little different in that it’s set in London, and more specifically Mayfair, and Eleanor doesn’t get dragged into a murder almost straight away (sort of). However, what we do get to see are Eleanor’s acting skills when she ends up in a role that’s quite unlike anything she’s done before. However, as always, she has the support of Clifford and the lovely Hugh. I wasn’t keen on Hugh to start with but as he’s mellowed and become more relaxed in each book I think I’d now refuse to read one if he wasn’t in it at all. The dynamic between these three characters is perfect, the right balance of seriousness, understandable concern, and unexpected comedy. I never thought I’d see the Chief Inspector in pyjama trousers and a jumper, so casual!

As always the settings and descriptions were spot on. I loved that we got the perspective of the staff in Lady Chadwick’s house as we’re so familiar with how Eleanor’s home works and the reality for many was quite different from that. It’s so true that staff blend into the background and people forget they are there, even today that still happens.

This was a cracking read. Much as I love the entire series there are always books that stand out for me above the others and this is one of them. I know the next book is set in Egypt so I’m beyond excited for that as a trip to Egypt and Nile cruise is something I’d love to experience. I’m also excited to see where this series goes now and how things will continue to develop between Eleanor and Hugh.

I love this series of cozy mysteries featuring Lady Eleanor. If you enjoy Rhys Bowen’s Royal Spyness series, or Fliss Chester’s historical mysteries, you would most probably enjoy this series as well! They are always well-plotted and clever, and you can read them as stand-alones or all in order. I have not read all of them but have enjoyed the ones I have read. Of course I enjoy just about anything that takes place in England and is historical!

Thank you for my copy and for making me part of the tour!

Rainy days call for a cuddle up on the couch, with a quilt on your lap, a pot of tea and, a faithful dog. And .... a cosy mystery!
I chose Murder in Mayfair by Verity Bright. Bright is a new to me author. This is Book 18 in the Lady Eleanor Swift series.

The books are set in the 1920's - a time that I quite enjoy. Lady Eleanor Swift is excited to be going on a hot air balloon ride, looking down at London. But instead, she witnesses a crime taking place below! And what she does next is unexpected, but I knew this was going to be a character I'd enjoy! Her beloved butler Clifford, tries to run interference for her. As does her fiancée - Detective Hugh Seldon. I quite like all three recurring characters. The banter between the three is fun to read. Back stories are alluded to, but I easily picked up on what has gone before.

The plot is also well written, and well presented, giving the reader time to count down to the final whodunit. Another crime runs parallel to the first. Could the two be connected?

I quite enjoyed this tale. I'll be adding Verity Bright and Lady Swift to my list of cosy mysteries.

The eighteenth installment in the Lady Eleanor Swift series proved to be one of the most captivating yet. Set against the backdrop of London's British Empire Exhibition, Ellie, Clifford, and their companions immerse themselves in the sights of the colonial world. Ellie's fortunate balloon ride offers a bird's-eye view of a murder below, but lacking physical evidence, Clifford and Hugh (coincidentally present for work) support her account, launching an investigation that unfolds with gripping historical intrigue. Delving into the Exhibition's details prompted me to research further online, while familiar characters like Gladstone and Tomkins, alongside a compelling new addition, enriched the narrative. The mystery itself proved engaging, Ellie shone brightly, and Hugh's emotional depth added a poignant layer, culminating in an exhilarating and perilous conclusion that left me thoroughly impressed. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this enriching opportunity to read and review.

This is one of my favourite cosy mystery series, I can't believe we're already at book 18! After these many books, I find it amazing that Verity Bright still finds new plots that I always enjoy reading. I'd have liked to see more of the household in this installment, but I enjoyed the story very much. I also appreciate all the period details and I like the historical references.

Thank you to the publisher who provided me with an e-copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the 18th book in the series. I really enjoy this series but prefer it when the main characters of the staff are in it which they didn't feature a lot in sadly.

Overall a fun, easy read. Thank you for the arc

‘Murder in Mayfair’ was a captivating read, packed full of action, historical details and was an intriguing and intoxicating mystery. This is the 18th book in the series but it can definitely be read as a standalone easily. I do recommend all the books though as they are tremendous reads and I truly think of the characters as friends rather than fictional! This is one of the best books in the series though, mainly due to always being fascinated by the Great Exhibition, but it was a devilish good mystery, heart-wrenching and death-defying. If that doesn't whet the appetites I don't know what will.

Lady Swift is enjoying the beguiling sights and sounds of the Great Exhibition with her steadfast butler, Clifford, when she witnesses a murder. Nothing new for Eleanor but to her chagrin she is in a runaway hot air balloon and the murder took place 90ft below her! She is soon embroiled in a government cover-up, the search for a stolen necklace and all this could cost Hugh, Eleanor’s fiance his job as a policeman. Not a lot on the line then!

I was pleased that this was a mystery in which we saw Eleanor develop slightly by being so warm and kind to the children under her care, a forebringer of what's to come to her life maybe… but even if not it was heartwarming to see! Plus, we got to see a reminder of why she and Hugh make such a great team as they solved the case and clues together. Of course, Clifford was never far from her side offering invaluable information and support. I just adore these characters and I would be bereft if this series was ever to end. I know instantly that when I pick up a book by Verity Bright that I will be transported to a vivid and authentic world, full of rich historical details and it will have a jolly good mystery! Roll on book 19!

Let me know if you pick this one up!

In this 18th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series, Lady Eleanor (Ellie), her butler Clifford and the ladies are visiting the British Empire Exhibition to see all the sights of the colonial world. Ellie is one of the lucky ones that get the opportunity to go up in a hot air balloon. While in the air, she witnesses a person being shot in one of the exhibition areas that is presently closed (Gold Coast/Ghana). With a daring escape from the balloon, when she gets to the scene of the murder, there is no body, nor evidence that a crime was committed. Clifford and Hugh believe her, so the investigation begins. While staying at the Ritz, Ellie is approached by a woman she doesn't know, Lady Chadwick. She claims a pearl necklace has been stolen and asks for Ellie's help. She has to pretend to be a governess to two children, which is something she has no idea about. She is shocked by the back biting and issues at Chadwick House. Will she find the answers to the two mysteries? Are they connected?

Once again, Verity Bright has penned an enjoyable cozy mystery with great characters. I love Ellie's character. She is flamboyant, smart, independent, a great employer, and takes chances to find the answers to crimes and mysteries. Clifford is a great second to her and I love the humorous banter between the two. He is always there to help when needed and I enjoy his many talents. The ladies (Lady Eleanor's staff) have been out and about in the last couple of books and I do enjoy seeing them involved in things. I looked up the British Expedition and enjoyed reading a bit about it, I love that the events of the times are included in these books. As always, her fur babies, Gladstone and Tompkins are on hand to lighten the mood. I always smile at their antics. We do meet a mystery man, who gives us some information about her uncle and "his man", Clifford which gave us some insight into their relationship. There is a twist in this one that I wasn't expecting and it took the ending off in a direction that was surprising to me. Overall, this was another great Lady Eleanor Swift mystery that I enjoyed.

I enjoy this series. I like the characters, although Clifford is my favorite. The mystery kept me guessing.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Lady Eleanor Swift (Ellie) treats her indoor staff (including pets) to a day out at the British Empire Exhibition. While in a hot air balloon drifting over one of the compounds, Ellie sees a man shot, but by the time she makes her dramatic descent from the balloon, there is no evidence of a body or anything to suggest a crime has been committed. Ellie's fiancé, Detective Inspector Hugh Seldon, is on the scene as head of security for the exhibition and although he and Clifford, Ellie's butler, have doubts, they do not dismiss Ellie's claims entirely.

True to form, Ellie cannot let matters rest and decides to investigate, once again involving Clifford and Hugh. Their subsequent visits to the compound, after having been warned to stay away, cause trouble for Hugh, who faces disciplinary action as a result.

Circumstances take an odd turn for Ellie when she is approached by Lady Chadwick, a woman she hardly knows, and pressured to investigate a stolen necklace. Lady Chadwick believes one of her staff is the culprit. With misgivings, Ellie moves into Chadwick House and assumes the role of governess to the Chadwick children, enlivening their lessons and making two new friends. On the other hand, garnering information from the staff is much harder than expected as, unlike her own household, the Chadwick one is not very friendly and treat her with suspicion.

Despairing that she will never solve the case after uncovering a number of lies, a crucial piece of evidence surfaces linking the missing necklace to the restricted compound. The race is then on to unmask a murderer, avoid a scandal, prevent another crime and save Hugh's career.

This is another fun-filled instalment of this delightful series. It opens with a dramatic hot air balloon flight and ends with an equally hair-raising confrontation. The bits in between are filled with historical facts (some provided by Clifford), entertaining banter, some lovely moments between Ellie and Hugh, the presence of the cheery and irrepressible female staff of Henley Hall, clandestine meetings in Whitehall and the introduction of a new character, who has already proved to be a great source of entertainment.

Roll on Book #19!

This is a good story. The action starts right from the beginning..Ellie really is quite impressive. Her confidence and curiosity together with her conscience get her into so many scrapes. And out again.

There are many threads to follow and then a couple of red herrings for good measure. And then there's more (but we don't want to give anything critical away)

While not set in the village, we still get to enjoy all the key characters, (including Gladstone and his cat companion, Tomkins. Delightful. And, in this one, Hugh plays a much more central role alongside Ellie and Clifford in order to get to the bottom of just what happened. Including the murder.

The historical aspect added a lovely dimension, with the Empire Exhibition in London playing a key role in the storyline. So many interesting inventions were mentioned and some of the current mindset of the time. was well conveyed. (Quite blinkered and patriarchal)

It was just lovely to see the character of Clifford expand further; we now know a little more about his past and envisage a slightly different future. I'm hoping Kofi will add a new dimension to the series.

It's a good one that will be enjoyed by many of the series fans. I am really looking forward to the next one.

It's 4 out of 5 for me!

With thanks to Bookouture, Netgalley and the author for my advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review

In her eighteenth Murder Mystery, Murder in Mayfair, Lady Eleanor (Ellie) Swift finds herself in somewhat of a dilemma as she has witnessed a murder, become a Governess and involved the love her life, the incredibly handsome Hugh Seldon, her fiancé, in a compromising situation, and it is only day two of a visit to London to witness the wondrous Exhibition being held at Wembley.
After a runaway hot air balloon flight where she witnessed a murder, she is once again back on the ground, after abseiling down to see if the man that was shot could be helped. She is accosted by Lady Philomena Chadwick, a slight acquaintance who invites her to tea at the Ritz Hotel the next afternoon.
She is implored to take on the task of finding Lady Chadwick’s pearl necklace, stolen according to Lady Philomena, by her staff. Much to her long suffering butler, Clifford’s amusement she goes undercover as a Governess to the Chadwick children. It is only hours into her new role she realises she is being lied to and something is certainly far from right in the household.
As she begins to try and find out what is going on within the household staff, she is also convinced that the man that she saw murdered, is something to do with the stolen necklace. Clifford and Hugh become deeply involved with trying to find out what happened to the murdered man, if there was one, which eventually gets Hugh suspended.
A long standing debt owed to Ellie’s beloved deceased Uncle is called in to help them find a pathway through the red tape and obstructive practices being erected by Whitehall, with astonishing results.
Who stole the necklace, who murdered the man who was obsessed with Lady Chadwick, and how the half completed Bermuda Pavilion at the Exhibition fits into the complexity of the situation, makes riveting reading, as Ellie sets out with the able assistance, of Clifford to get to the very bottom of why murder was committed in Mayfair.
Once again Verity Bright has spun a very fine yearn indeed, wrapped around the very human foibles of greed, bullying and love in Murder in Mayfair; another incredibly enjoyable cozy murder.

Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Since discovering the Lady Eleanor Swift Mysteries on volume 12, I have explored the previous books as well as eagerly anticipated each new release. They remind me of a grown-up British Nancy Drew, evoking the hallmarks of those early 1930's books. Murder in Mayfair might be the best book in the series. With plenty of historical research into the British Empire Exhibition in 1924 and life in England in the 1920s in general, the attention to detail by Verity Bright is always commendable. Much like a Nancy Drew mystery, there are two different mysteries going on, and as the book progresses, there may be a connection.

With a supporting cast that is utterly charming, Eleanor really shines in this novel. While this is part of a series, each book is written as a standalone, so one does not necessarily have to have read the whole catalogue to enjoy this Golden Age cozy mystery. Highly recommend!

Favorite Quotes:

I know how things usually pan out when I try and do the romantic thing. I’d probably more likely than not crack your head on a door frame on the way out and then discover my noble steed was a wretched donkey.’

My pyjamas are calling me!

I don’t want to hear that level of honesty.

But it might help if you understand I was at the very end of the line when patience was given out.


My Review:


This series has been such fun, I remain totally enamored with Lady Swift and her ever prepared butler, Clifford, who is usually two steps ahead of her. Team Verity Bright has continues to hit their stride with a writing style that is polished, easy to follow, delightfully entertaining, humorous, and witty. This installment was particularly heartwarming as they continue to collect vulnerable people to care about and care for, and made a significant difference in their lives.

Lady Eleanor, her butler Clifford always deal in murder. The settings vary but they invariably involve the aristocracy and this is where normal rules of law are very often waived, however horrendous the crime.
The very interesting part of Lady Eleanor’s stories are however the social commentary of the times. Way of life, the distinct division of classes, the living standards of rich and poor all mixed in with murder and mystery.

This story is no different. Set at the time of the British Exposition and Fair, Lady Eleanor witnesses a murder. Implausible in an area under high security, no body to be found but Inspector Hugh does believe his madcap fiancée. Involving a loss of an heirloom necklace, blackmail, thievery and Lords and Ladies, the story evolves into a who dunit in the best possible fashion.

Good entertaining reading.