⭐ 2.75 ⭐ This was a nice little cosy mystery. The plot picked up towards the end, and I enjoyed the active sleuthing and danger it posed in those parts, as well as the character dynamics. Jane, Arthur Benson were a fun trio as the story went along. The backdrop of WW2 added interest to the situations the characters found themselves in. I have to say though, more than the two leads, Benson turned out to be my favorite character. He was smart, thoughtful, resourceful and intelligent.

The detectives were invetigating two potentially connected cases - the murder of a POW at the seaside village and the blackmarket operations during the air raids. The seaside village was a quaint setting, that was also the hometown of our main character Jane Treen. There were quite a collection of characters who were suspects in the mystery, and the story kept revealing more layer by layer through the meetings and interviews.

The ebook turned out to be shorter than expected, as the story ended at 75%. The rest was promotional material and additional chapters for the next mysteries. This impacted my rating, as it is only at the 60% mark that I found the story was becoming more engaging for me, and then 15% later I was surprised to find it was over.

The initial pacing was too slow, and the dialogues were heavily repetitive. Basic aspects of the cases and interviews were being re-discussed constantly - either amongst the detectives, or when they interacted with other characters. They hadn't even bothered to get the case file from their London office with a full brief, before showing up to the village and starting to interview people. The government inspector had to point that out to them, and they gave him attitude for it, taking him to be too much of a stickler!

For the most part, the two main characters felt flat- and being a Chrsitie fan, I usually find that it is important to have more engaging characters in slower cosy mysteries like these where the plot is not as active. I did feel their dynamic with each other improved as the story went on. and there were some cute moments, I enjoyed the interactions during the car driving scenes, sheltering in the bunker, and through all the sleuthing at the end.

I’ve been reading (and enjoying) Helena Dixon’s books for years now, and (in spite of the war time setting) I loved The Secret Detective Agency. So I couldn’t wait to read The Seaside Murders, book 2 in the series.

This story was just as much fun as the first. Arthur, Jane, and Benson already feel like old friends, and it was delightful to spend more time with them.

I loved the setting of the seaside village, which seems idyllic, but has a lot going on under the surface. I enjoyed exploring the various possibilities of what might be going on alongside Jane, Arthur, and Benson.

There was an interesting range of characters (and possible suspects) in the village, and I didn’t suspect the culprit until the reveal.

Overall, this was a delightful mystery, with characters that are fast becoming favourites. I recommend getting stuck into this series as soon as possible.

I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

Book 2 in The Secret Detective series is a great read and this is shaping up to be a hugely enjoyable new cozy crime series. Our detectives, Jane and Arthur, are this time tasked to investigate the murder of an unknown man and the alleged disappearance of goods, which may be being sold on the black market.

Back at her family home Jane finds it hard to be in her late fathers house so soon after his death, however as the case quickly unfolds she and Arthur are questioning suspects and looking at his library of useful books and maps to find clues.

The characters are very likeable and have developed already from their difficult start in the first book. They are very well suited to the era the book is set in and although play non-traditional roles their amusing traits keep the reader engaged. The plot is interesting to follow and the ending is unexpected and one I thoroughly enjoyed.

I loved the setting of the novel and how well the area and particularly the cliffs and coastline was described; I could imagine being there with the detectives.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Seaside Murders by Helena Dixon was a delightful and suspenseful read that had me hooked from start to finish. As I followed the captivating mystery, I felt fully immersed in the charming seaside setting, with its well-drawn characters and twists that kept me guessing. The book not only kept me entertained but also left me eager to see what would happen next in the Secret Detective Agency series!

This is a fun cozy series, and I enjoyed this second book although must confess I found the first more interesting. I'm not sure if it was the underlying mystery itself or the fact that I listened to the first as an audiobook and really liked the narrator. Either way, I will definitely continue with the series but probably switch back to audio. The plotting felt a little more uneven in this book - I would be clicking along and really enjoying the story, then got lost in descriptions that felt repetitive (for example, the multiple explanations about the air raid thefts and how no one took Mr. Wood seriously). It wasn't a huge deal, but definitely kept pulling me in and out of focus as far as the story's momentum. The characters are fun and I enjoy watching their relationships develop. I was particularly pleased to see more involvement from Benson in the actual investigating this time around!

Another great book in the secret detective agency series!
If you love a mystery that you don’t know what’s going to happen, but with some London English and old time feels this is the perfect boon for you. It’s a great mystery that follow Jane and her partner Arthur trying to solve a murder along with some other things that happen in the middle of it.
I didn’t want to stop reading it and the ending was not expected at all. Absolutely loved it and hopefully there will be a third book soon.

Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this ARC. And thank you to Helena Dixon for another great read.

The second in this brand new series by Helena Dixon. Jane and Arthur team up again in her home town to solve not one but two mysteries plaguing the town. The clues seem to point to the crimes being connected, but with the lack of police involvement it is hard to get a handle on things.
I love these characters, and the setting during the war makes things interesting.
I enjoy this new series. It reads a little slower than a lot of other cozy mysteries, but never boring. Lots of slow build and clues dribbling in. Truly enjoyable and looking forward to what they get involved in next.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It is the second book out of the series. However, reading the first is not really necessary. You have a better understanding of the characters, but the story works very well on its own. Reading the second book first also does not spoil reading the first.
Most things I say about this book also fit the first.
The story develops slowly, but is never lengthy or boring. The characters are great.
Helena Dixon manages to walk the thin line between boring, stereotypic characters and "you know what you will get but still love them". Yes, Jane, Arthur and Benson are not the first characters that have their specific traits.
Jane: tough, always in charge, no fussing around
Arthur: weak health, very smart, socially unsure
Benson: manservant, always prepared, knows everything, can do everything
They know their weaknesses and accept or ignore them in very charming ways.
All "minor" characters are well-developed and fun, too.
The setting (WWII) is very atmospheric, the air raids, blackouts, and food- and goods-shortages, are present and important without being dominant.
If you like cosy crime with great characters and an interesting story, this is for you.
If you want a nail-biting agent story, look elsewhere.

Thank you Bookoutur for the free copy of this fantastic book.

"A pretty seaside town, a body on the beach, and a boatload of clues. Can super-sleuth Miss Jane Treen solve the mystery?

England, 1941. When Jane Treen is summoned to her boss's office at the end of a long day, she smooths down her tweed skirt and makes them both another strong pot of coffee. Brigadier Remmington-Blythe slides a folded copy of the evening newspaper towards her, with one small article circled in red ink. A body has been found on an English beach in the little seaside town where she grew up, and he wants her to investigate.

Jane is used to managing secret agents and spies, but she is now part of The Secret Detective Agency, England's answer to solving the most mysterious murders. Making her way to the coast and brimming with curiosity, she's heartened that shy and handsome codebreaking genius Arthur Cilento will be joining her to help her wade through the fishy goings-on. Although Jane doubts he will appreciate her bringing her beloved one-eyed cat, Marmaduke...

Together, Jane and Arthur drop anchor in her crumbling childhood home overlooking the sandy beach where the body was found. Surrounded by potential suspects, their eyes are on a devious doctor, an eccentric artist and a secret sweetheart. But as Jane and Arthur are searching for the truth, those giving evidence start to clam up. One thing seems sure: they need to reel in the killer before they're out of their depth...

Can The Secret Detective Agency triumph again, or will they meet their watery end at high tide?

If you love twisty crime novels, top-secret intrigue and the very best of Golden Age mysteries, then you will adore Helena Dixon's totally gripping cozy novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Verity Bright!"

I mean, we have to admit that the reason she's bringing her cat along is because the cat is solving the crimes.

The 2nd book in the WWII cozy the secret dectective agency series Love Jane, Arthur and of course Marmaduke. If you enjoy cozy mysteries then this delightful series is for you. Thank you to Netgalley and Bookoutre for ARC.

In the book Jane and Arthur travel to Jane's childhood town to investigate a body that was found on the beach. An italian prisoner of war that is working on the land to help a local farmer. They have also been asked to help discover who is stealing from the local shops and selling the stolen items on the black market

A wonderful fun and witty book with wonderful characters!

The second book in this series and I loved it.

An awesome follow up. I usually don't read spy books, but this series has been amazing. Looking forward to the next.

I’ve read a couple of the author’s Kitty Underhay mysteries in the past and this new series has the same cozy crime charm to it.

If you love a bit of golden-age intrigue then you’ll want to check this book out (plenty of time to read first book in the series before this one comes out too!)

3.7 Stars
One Liner: Improvement from the first book

1941, England
After solving the previous case, Jane Treen and Arthur Cilento were made the sole members of The Secret Detective Agency by Brigadier Remmington-Blythe. Now, they are sent to a little seaside town to investigate a case. However, soon after they reach the place, a body is found on the beach.
While there are enough suspects, none of them are willing to cooperate. The duo spends time in Jane’s old home in the village and tries to find the murderer despite the odds.
The story comes in Jane and Arthur’s third-person POVs.

My Thoughts:
I requested a copy before I finished the first book. Since both are to be released back-to-back, I knew the feedback for book #1 may not be applied here yet (not enough time). However, there is some improvement which assures me that the series might get better.
And yes, it works as a standalone.
The sleuths – Jane, Arthur, and Benson (Arthur’s manservant who is outrageously competent) – come together to solve another case, this time in Jane’s hometown.
The setting is lovely, though the people are mixed (which seems pretty realistic). The cast of characters is slightly smaller than in the previous book (I think). Of course, it is easy enough to remember who is who. The key ones are well-defined.
This book has two mysteries – a dead prisoner and a black market racket. Are the cases connected? You’ll have to read to find out!
The mystery, though simple, is well-planned. I didn’t guess the criminal this time. The reveal made sense, so no complaints. We have a few red herrings and some action to keep the interest levels steady.
The WWII backdrop is once again seamlessly used in the plot. Be it the raids, bombs, the influx of war prisoners (who are being used as farm workers), or the shortages of certain commodities, everything plays a role in the central plot.
While I’m still not that impressed with Jane, I do see her better. Imagine being more competent than many men and still being treated as an inferior member or an entry-level assistant. No wonder she acts so extra tough! Still, I’d like her more if she reduced her smoking. After all, it’s her health I’m concerned about!
The pacing is steady, moderate to fast. However, the book ends at 82%. Yeah, be prepared for this. Otherwise, you’ll be confused and disappointed when the story ends quickly. I checked the % in advance, so I knew what to expect.

To summarize, The Seaside Murders is a good continuation and provides decent entertainment. I like it enough and will read the next book. Hopefully, the characters will settle down better by then.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

A huge thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC💙🌟

"For all those who gave their todays for our tomorrows."

Another book in The Secret Agency series that includes a dead italian man POW & more moments with Arthur and Jane investigating murder and uncovering the secrets of the black market in seaside Kent? A big YES!🕯️🌊🔍

Even though the pace started to lag somewhere in the middle, overall i was so into the story that I didn’t very noticed.

Characters were reliable, hilarious and simply amazing😍 + Elsa was seriously annoying I wanted to kick her out of that house (or the planet🌍).

🖇️Jane & Arthur?💫
I loved every. single. moment. of them being together, whether it meant just chatting, arguing (I especially liked those, I laughed a lot) or just thinking or worrying about each other, ooor when they accidentally brushed their fingers🤭
Incredible manservant Benson was an amazing partner in crime🔫🥹

There were a few moments in their investigation that seemed a bit ridiculous & random and they were REALLY LUCKY that no one caught them. But that’s fiction🫠 so no big deal😂

And we need to talk about that ending…. I was shocked?! I had a few suspects but oh, how wrong I was😐😅

Overall very quick and cozy read!📝 I'll be standing in line for the third book in the series, all excited and happy to read more about the adventures of The Secret Detective Agency, that's for sure.🗺️🔎

This story dives into the depths of black marketeering during WW2 with a gripping murder to boot. Lies abound around every corner, but no worries Jane and Arthur are back sleuthing to uncover the truth. Another great mystery surrounded by a bomb raids and thieves. It twisty and down right fun ride making it a must-read for mystery lovers.

I loved this sequel! This sequel was very witty and charming! I also thought the murder was very compelling. Full review on release date!

I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it quiet a bit so I was excited to dig into the second installment. Jane, Arthur, and Benson are back at it, this time in Jane's hometown, as they try and solve the mystery of a murdered Italian POW. I continue to enjoy the characters and their interactions as well as the historical setting. There seems to be some romantic feelings brewing between Jane and Arthur, and while that might seem so predictable, I love the idea of their opposites attracting. .

The pacing was an issue for me in The Secret Detective Agency but this story moves quickly. We see growth and a softening in Jane, through she's still brusque and unapologetic, and watching her struggle with her famous mother's unexpected appearance was insightful. My love for Benson continues to grow and I hope we get more of his backstory in coming books.

I have a weakness for cozy mysteries, and novels about the British Homefront during WWII. This series is right up my street. The second in the series is equally as well-crafted as the first. The characters benefit from being more well-rounded, and this particular mystery is deftly plotted with moments of genuine suspense/peril. Helena Dixon is very good at writing mysteries. Her characters are masterfully drawn as well. The main character, Jane, is an independent woman, not afraid to be the smartest person in the room. I love how she is unafraid to be exactly who she is, and I enjoy her thought processes, struggles, and emotional moments immensely. In this second outing , we learn more about her, and how she came to be such a force. Ms. Dixon does not “tell”, she “shows”, and sparingly at that. It is refreshing to feel like the characters are being revealed slowly, through their actions, another mystery to solve. The other protagonist, Arthur, and Benson (his Man) are also slowly revealed to be more than they seem, and they are (almost) as interesting as Jane. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Dixon comes up with next, this is a very engaging series. Highly recommend.

After reading the first book in this new series, I had to get the 2nd book right away to know what happens next with Jane, Arthur & Benson. Since the first book had them in Arthur’s home, it was nice to see the situation reversed and set at Jane’s childhood home. I saw some progress in friendship building between Jane and Arthur and was happy that Jane was more empathetic to Arthur’s medical condition as that annoyed me in the first book. It was interesting to get more information on Jane’s history and parent relationships as this helped to understand her and her quirks better. Jane’s mother is unlikeable to the reader, though I assume that is how she was meant to be. I am curious if Benson was really taken with her or just trying to help keep her mollified and not bothering Jane. I did enjoy seeing Benson have more of a role in their capers and show his skills. Again, there were enough leads, twists, and turns that I did not know who the ultimate villain was until it was revealed. I look forward to more books in this series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.