Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Below Stairs Mystery #9
Publication Date: 08/11/26
Period: Victorian London
Number of Pages: 320

I started reading this book thinking it was the last in the series and was very disappointed because it didn’t wrap up a lot of things. Yes, we finally learned Daniel’s origins, but nothing else was resolved. Then, to my great delight, I learned that while this is the last book in the series from this publisher, the author will continue the series by self-publishing. GREAT NEWS! All the changes we see in this book – and those left unfinished – will make for wonderful new stories in the future.

The story opens with a murder that quickly draws us into the dark and fascinating world of Blackfriars. What initially appears to be a straightforward murder investigation becomes much more complicated as secrets begin to surface and the investigation takes our characters into the lives, relationships, and hidden motives of those around them. Jennifer Ashley does an excellent job of giving us a mystery that keeps unfolding while also allowing us to become invested in the people trying to solve it.

I really enjoyed the historical setting in this one. Ashley creates such a vivid sense of time and place, and the atmosphere adds so much to the story. Blackfriars becomes almost a character itself—dark, crowded, mysterious, and full of possibilities for both secrets and danger. I could easily picture the streets and buildings and felt completely drawn into the world she created.

But, as usual, it was the characters who really made the book for me. I particularly enjoyed watching the relationships develop throughout the story. We aren’t simply given characters who are there to solve a murder; we get to see their personalities, their strengths and weaknesses, and the ways their experiences affect how they deal with one another.

And the mystery kept me guessing. There are plenty of clues, red herrings, twists, and revelations, and Ashley does a wonderful job of keeping the answers just out of reach. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another piece of the puzzle appeared and made me reconsider what I thought I knew. The pacing worked particularly well for me because the story never seemed to drag, but it also gave enough time for the characters and relationships to develop.

This is exactly the kind of historical mystery I enjoy—a compelling murder investigation, a fascinating historical setting, characters I become invested in, and enough twists and turns to keep me turning the pages.

Jennifer Ashley has given me another book that was difficult to put down, and Murder in Blackfriars is definitely a 5-star read for me!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Barbara’s Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: A Below Stairs Mystery #8
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
Setting: Victorian London
Pages: 320

One of my favorite aspects of this series is its focus on characters from below stairs. While aristocrats appear, they remain secondary—allowing the real spotlight to shine on the clever, resilient, and resourceful Kat Holloway, a cook with a sharp mind and keen eye for detail. Alongside her is the ever-enigmatic Daniel McAdam—a charming and wily operative with a hidden connection to a secretive branch of Scotland Yard.

Daniel longs to escape the grip of his manipulative superior, Monaghan, who’s had it out for him for years. Monaghan finally offers Daniel a deal: complete this one last mission—his most dangerous yet—and he’ll be free. The case? Infiltrate the household of Viscount Peyton, suspected of conspiring with the Fenians, a radical group willing to commit mass murder in the name of Irish independence.

Meanwhile, Kat takes on a troubling mystery of her own. Several of Lady Cynthia’s friends have received vile blackmail letters, with promises of further instructions to come. When the second letter arrives, the demands take an unexpected turn—leading Kat down a much darker and more complex path.

Although working separately, both Kat and Daniel find themselves navigating escalating dangers. The risks they face also serve to deepen their personal bond, hinting at exciting developments to come in their relationship and lives.

The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the dual investigations are expertly interwoven. I especially appreciate how the author continues to build on the characters’ growth while laying intriguing groundwork for future installments.

Will Kat finally open her long-dreamed-of tea shop? Will Daniel uncover the truth about his past—and break free from Monaghan’s grasp? So many tantalizing threads left to explore!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

View all my reviews