Just finished A Midwinter Murder by Verity Bright! While it didn’t completely wow me, it was still a fun, cozy mystery with a charming setting. The wintery atmosphere and the holiday vibes definitely added to the mood, and Lady Eleanor is a likable protagonist. However, I found the mystery a bit predictable at times, and the pacing could have been tighter. Still, if you’re in the mood for a light, seasonal read with a touch of intrigue, this could be a perfect pick.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. A Midwinter Murder finds Lady Eleanor having to change her holiday plans when her decline of an invite to the Duke of Auldwyke's invite to his shoot party went astray. Luckily, the invite included her fiancé, Hugh, and arrangements were made for her household staff to make use of a nearby cottage. Shortly after arrival, the duke's secretary is found dead, and it is clear that he was murdered. The duke refuses to allow anyone other than Hugh and a local policeman already on the scene to investigate, and even then, he puts limits on Hugh that make it very difficult for him to investigate. Throw in a lot of uncooperative guests with secrets to hide, making it seem almost impossible that they will be able to find out who the killer is or the motive before the end of the party or the duke loses patience with the investigation.

I liked the mystery in this book, but did think that there weren't as many clues this time to help the reader determine who did it and why prior to the reveal. I really enjoyed all the holiday touches that were included in the book and the closeness between Eleanor and her staff that was on full display. There is also some development on the Eleanor and Hugh front that long time series readers will be excited for. I overall found this to be a fun holiday mystery that kept my attention throughout and made me wish I could spend a few hours with Eleanor and her staff celebrating Christmas.

Verity Bright’s A Midwinter Murder is the latest Lady Eleanor Swift novel. It’s good to see Ellie in her usual setting: a British country house. Although, this time, the host who invited her and her fiancée, Detective Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, is the Duke of Auldwyke: exalted company, even for Lady Swift, as there are only around a dozen dukes in the UK! (I thought the author may have exaggerated as there are currently (2024) thirty dukes in the UK, but, yes, the number of Dukes of the English peerage, i.e. not the UK, Great Britain, Scotland or Ireland, is indeed about twelve.)

As you and I expect, dear reader, someone is murdered by the end of Chapter Two. The Duke has an aversion to policemen, even forbidding his staff to contact the local police about the murder until dinner is over, so as not to inconvenience his guests. His eccentricities really do hamper Ellie and Hugh’s investigation. For example, “No guest must ever approach, or speak to his Grace if they see him. Ever. Ever.” You would think that a host who invites guests for Christmas would join them for dinner but no, the duke dines alone in his room as he does every other night of the year.

I enjoyed the book, although I do feel the series is getting a little tired, with Hugh and Ellie wanting to spend quality time together, but being thwarted by a murder in Chapter One or Two; Hugh banging his forehead and saying “Blast it!”; and Ellie’s butler, Clifford, offering her stiffening drinks or delicious nibbles 24 x 7. However, I could choose not to read any more – if I think they’re getting predictable, I don’t have to read the new ones! I understand that “cosy” detection novels achieve their effect by showing a world pushed out of joint by a murder and then returning that world to the status quo ante by identifying the murderer and making sure they cannot do it again. (And, often, pairing off some lovers so that someone, at least, lives happily ever after!) That means that the life-blood of such novels is predictability. I think, though, my greatest enjoyment of the Lady Swift novels arises from the dialogue rather than the crime-solving. I enjoy Ellie’s banter with Clifford; and the mischievous behaviour of Ellie’s domestic staff. Long may the novels continue!

#AMidwinterMurder #NetGalley

This has an interesting cast of characters that carry the story along a nice pace and create depth to the story. Great plot and I found myself filling an afternoon reading this in one sitting as I found it so enjoyable. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest , unbiased review. 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In A MIDWINTER MURDER by Verity Bright it is the winter of 1924. Lady Eleanor Swift attends a shoot at the Duke of Auldwyke’s manor house in Yorkshire Moors. The Duke’s secretary, Mr. Porritt, is found dead by Lady Swift. How and why is Mr. Porritt dead? I read on to find out.

The setting resembles Downton Abbey with entitled characters like the protagonist, Lady Eleanor Swift, and the staff like the chauffeur, Mr. Lofthouse. The description of Christmastime draws the reader into the cozy comfort of the holiday setting. The description of Mr. Porritt s death brings the main mystery into focus. Who killed Mr. Porritt? While this book is a good read, I think it is too long. I still look forward to reading the next Lady Eleanor Swift book. The backstory has certainly piqued my interest. Thank you, Bookouture and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of A MIDWINTER MURDER.

A MIDWINTER MURDER is book number 20 in the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery series by VERITY BRIGHT. What an enjoyable read. The story is exciting and amusing as we follow Lady Eleanor Swift and her two favourite men - her dashing fiance, detective chief inspector Hugh Seldon of Scotland Yard, and her longsuffering and erudite butler Clifford - to a Christmas shooting party at Auldwycke Hall, as guests of the eccentric Duke of Auldwycke.
Unpleasant guests, each of whom have a secret, the murder of the Duke’s secretary and the attempted murder of the Duke, threaten to put a damper on the romantic Christmas Eleanor and Hugh were hoping for…….
I love the character descriptions, Gladstone the entitled bulldog, and the way Eleanor cares for her staff. Her rather risque remarks (remember it is 1924) and her bright and caring nature are delightful……
I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Another delicious slice of the life of Lady Eleanor Swift, her husband to be Matt and her household staff who provide a huge delight and colourful cast of characters in this series of cozy crimes.

Eleanor and he staff, together with her fiancé, have been invited to a Christmas shoot, which she is sure she has turned down but a reminder to attend sees them all arrive at the stately home. The shooting competition starts and as a novice Lady Eleanor is determined to do her best, which she does, however shorty after round one a body is found and another mystery needs to be solved.

This is another really lovely story which is so well told that it keeps the reader engaged throughout. The characters well known to the series audience will love to hear about their latest case and the antics of the household staff.

Thoroughly recommend this book and the whole series to anyone who enjoys a historical cozy crime with lots of fun, mystery and a great cast of characters.

Lady Eleanor Swift had her Christmas all planned out. Romantic days spent with her fiancé, the totally delectable Detective Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, at her home, Henley Hall, as well as festive fun and games with her staff and butler, Clifford. Unfortunately, all plans have been scrapped due to a summons by the Duke of Auldwyke for them to attend his Christmas festivities in a very snowy Yorkshire!

When she discovers a body no more than fifteen minutes after her arrival she also discovers any investigation will take a very distant third place behind the prearranged clay pigeon shoot, and the unusual way of life lived at Auldwyke Hall. Hugh finds himself in charge of a case run in line with the Duke’s idiosyncrasies with no consideration of the need to begin searching for clues immediately. When more attacks against the guests and other residents take place and the weather closes in completely, Eleanor, Hugh, and Clifford know it's down to them to save Christmas!

Book twenty in this wonderful series is more than just a Christmas cosy. It takes the reader below stairs and behind the scenes of a Lady Swift Christmas as well as detailing a little more about Seldon and his family history. There is also a recipe at the end which is gluttony personified but amazing to read about alongside the ever present and enlightening historical facts!

I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. From Seldon's romantic awkwardness, through Polly's scene stealing, to a very satisfying denouement, I absolutely loved this and can't wait for book 21 in the new year!

Expecting the typical snowed - in mansion murder mystery, I was totally unprepared by the situation that was presented by the powerful Duke, who had special rules for everything including how Christmas was spent by his guests. He even insisted that the annual shooting matches take place with the winner given whatever he desires.
In spite of all this turmoil, a killer was uncovered, allowing all to celebrate a special Christmas away from home.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher Bookouture for the eARC to review.

A Midwinter Murder was the perfect cosy mix: a magical Christmas setting in the snowy Yorkshire countryside, my favourite series characters and an exciting plot, packed with drama. The suspects are a fascinating bunch too, each with their own secrets. And as well as the hunt for the murderer, there’s a sporting competition to get caught up in! A Lady Eleanor Swift mystery has become an essential part of the festive season. First class!

(Ad PR) Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Verity Bright for allowing me to read ahead of publication date.

Fell in love with the quick wit of Lady Eleanor Swift, along with her butler Clifford. The dynamic between all the characters made this book a rollercoaster of not knowning what was going to happen next.

I thought i knew the person but was wrong and i love that it wasnt predictable.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The characters are relatable, and the plot is extremely well done. At times the story felt a bit predictable, but if you read enough of any genre this will happen. That said, the story itself was not predictable.

Although this novel is number 20 in a series, I jumped into it without having read the prior books. I wasn't at all lost, and it was easy to follow along and know who was who. At no point did I feel as though I was missing something, and I feel that this book could be read as a standalone.

A Midwinter Murder by Verity Bright is a funny, engaging cozy mystery, reminiscent of Agatha Christie (if she was funny). It has And Then There Were None vibes, which is one of my favourites. This is definitely a book to add to your TBR, especially if you like mysteries without excessive gore.

This was a strong twentieth entry in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series, it had that writing style that I’ve come to expect from Verity Bright. It had that Verity Bright writing style that I was looking for and enjoyed the overall feel that I expected. The characters had that charm that I was looking for and glad this series had continued.

I love books that are character driven. This mystery had a solid, puzzling murder mystery but it was the characters that made it sparkle. The relationship between Eleanor, excuse me, Lady Eleanor Swift and those about her is a delight.Not born to her title, Eleanor is a generous friends to all, no matter what their status. In fact, she goes out of her way to bring them joy. That's why her staff is at the reclusive Duke's holiday gathering with her. Unfortunately, boyfriend Hugh won't be there until the next day when, as it turns out, she has a probably highly unwanted surprise for him. That said, the natural, witty flow of dialogue between Hugh and Eleanor, not to mention butler Clifford, seems to flow, leaving me wanting more. I definitely want to know more about Clifford. Is he psychic or something? I mean, the man seems to know what is wanted and needed almost before they do, not to mention his expertise in, well, just about everything continues to amaze. Thanks to him, we learn a bit about the stately art of shooting, to how it's judged to how the clay targets are prepared. Young Constable Danby, new to the cast, but shows potential as both detective and as a possible romantic interest for one of Eleanor's ladies. I'll be lookinng forward to more of him in future books.

As for the murder, it happens rather quickly and unexpectedly early on. Eleanor and her entourage have barely had time to disembark and check out their lodgings at the Duke of Auldwyke's estate when his secretary, Porritt, is killed. What happened during that mere eighteen minute gap? As it turns out, there are several suspects, all invited for the shooting contest, but, how odd, none of them seem to have actually met the Duke, including Eleanor. She was simply hoping to take advantage of the lovely Yorkshire setting to spend some holiday time with Hugh. She will definitely have a surprise for him and it isn't just that they're expected to take part in a shooting contest which is to go on despite the murder under some odd but very strict rules. I won't detail the plot further but it kept me guessing and held my interest until the end. The setting definitely sounds lovely, both the estate and interiors and clothing choices, as well as some intriguing sites encountered during explorations. I enjoyed the rather locked room feel of the plot, which is added to when a blizzard arrives and the phone lines go down.

Enough teasers. Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and am already looking forward to the next. It was fun to see how quickly and efficiently Eleanor's lady friends created a true Christmas for all involved. And, while the book works well as a standalone, long time readers will surely love the ending. Thanks #Bookouture for allowing me an early peek into Eleanor's Christmas with both friends and strangers.

Book 20 and the series keeps getting better and better. Love that Eleanor and Hugh are finding more times to have a little romance. A good Christmas murder mystery, and although there were a lot of red herrings, and the killer was unexpected, it was still a fun read. Would highly recommend.

Lady Eleanor Swift finds herself and her staff as guests of the reclusive Duke of Auldwyke, although she did have other plans for the Season. Of course, a murder occurs rather early in the story, but it is not quite clear why she really is there until several chapters in. Also, several liberties were taken for the sake of the story's logic and coherence, but this is not unusual for the series.
The murder story is not straightforward; the banter between Eleanor and the ladies, Eleanor and Clifford, as well as Eleanor and Hugh, is fun and creates a lightness to the narrative. As I have been taking a break from the series since volume 15, I was pleasantly surprised that the pets have not taken over the plot and that Clifford and Hugh have found a balance in the narrative context. Also, the romance (finally) got a bit more room in the story and is finally getting somewhere. To be honest, this was a major point for me to take a break from the series: Eleanor was flitting from location to location and was involving herself in anything but her own life. Now she seems to admit that this is a question worth thinking more about.
All in all, a festive, cozy winter mystery with a bit of romance and funny banter.

This is my honest - and voluntary- review.

The cover design is gorgeous and enticed me to read this story! ❤️ It's an entertaining cozy murder mystery, set in a stately home at Christmastime, with strong Downton Abbey vibes. I enjoyed the twists and turns in the plot, the bit where they used a tin bath as a sledge, the descriptions of gorgeous 1920s fashions, and the sweet chemistry/banter between the detective Ellie and her fiancé Hugh. This is the 20th instalment in the Eleanor Swift mystery series, but it's written in a way that also works just fine as a standalone story.

Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance copy.