This is book 7 of a series best read in order. It’s written in first person, dual POV, without an indication of who’s POV you’re in when it shifts. It’s maddening. Jumping into the middle of the series, I had no idea what was going on. There’s a lot of information about the relationships between the characters, which overshadows the mystery plot. I never had any idea what was going on. DNF.

Set in Victorian Shropshire. In at the Death is the sixth and last installment in A Harriet & Matthew Rowsley Victorian Mystery series. Reading the previous five is preferable, of course, but they are easy to immerse yourself in on their own. Secrets and deceit abound in spades with tidbits of juicy gossip. I could practically hear the whispers and murmurs and swish of skirts.

This upstairs/downstairs story is engaging, witty, whip smart and chock full of atmosphere. Refreshingly, the protagonists Harriet and Matthew are Housekeeper and Estate Manager of Thorncroft House so they know the ins and outs of both the staff and upper class. While enjoying a week in Oxford meeting new and old acquaintances, they receive disturbing news of a decapitation so decide to rush back home. Harriet holds a secret close to her chest. She is eventually arrested but has certain connections. Meanwhile, American heir to the house throws spanners into the works. Claude Baker isn't exactly beloved but adds a fascinating layer to the story. The ending is gratifying, as are the surprises sprinkled throughout.

My favourite aspect is bustling life downstairs in the incomparable Victorian era. The writing is engaging and easy to follow. I enjoyed the comfy vibes in front of a roaring fire with hot chocolate on a chilly day.

My sincere thank you to Severn and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this enchanting novel.

Harriet has a secret but she's not telling, even though she's been wrongly arrested for murder. It's 1861 and Harriet, along with her husband Matthew have to deal with an heir-at long last-to Thorncroft House, which they manage. But murder upsets it all. These two are a delight; I will mis them. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. Cutler has kept the series fresh. the mysteries not too twisty and the storytelling engaging throughout the series and best of all- this can be read as a standalone.

A fun mystery read- kept me engaged and excited to know what was going to happen next! Not at all what I expected but in the best way. I didn’t read any of the other stories in the series first and was still able to really enjoy this book!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review!

Thorncraft House, October 1861, England.

Harriet and Matthew are in Oxford when they receive news of a body found on the estate. Rushing back to Shropshire, things get confusing.

The police are not exactly on the job. A new heir may have been found for the house, and he is a piece of work. Before you know it Harriet is in jail and must do some explaining for her own past and secrets will come out.

This is the final installment of the lovely couple from Shropshire. It has been a pleasure!


NetGalley/ Severn House January 07, 2025

An intriguing Victorian murder mystery. Truly a suspenseful page-turner. Special thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

This talented author has written a page turner.
Realistic characters…red herrings and secrets…thanks Netgalley