Book Review: Death of an Aristocrat by Anya Wylde

Death of an Aristocrat
Author: Anya Wylde
Series: A Lucy Trotter Mystery
Publication: Self-Published (Feb. 28, 2020)

Description: The gossip columns can talk of nothing else, and even the Regent is intrigued. The murder of Lord Beazley at Gopshall Manor has caused a sensation, and the fact that two sweet governesses could have done it has further tickled the nations bloodthirsty soul. Lucy Anne Trotter, who stands accused, steals a horse and hurtles off to convince the only man in the country who can save her bacon— the national hero and the most handsome man in England, Lord William Hartell Adair. With him by her side, she sets out to discover the Gopshall family’s secrets and the murderer.In true Anya Wylde style, plenty of madness, kisses and burning breeches make an appearance. It’s a carriage ride not to be missed.

My Thoughts: Our favorite young governess is in trouble again. This time she is taking care of five young children as Gopshall Manor when a guest is found murdered. Naturally, suspicion falls on the two outsiders - governess for the children of the house. Lucy Trotter immediately goes to Lord Adair, who got her the job, for his help in solving the mystery and saving her from the hangman's noose.

There are many suspicious characters. There is Lord Willoughby who is an inveterate bad gambler with a temper and a penchant for bothering the maids. There is his wife who married him for his title and money but who really wanted the younger brother. There is the father of Lord Willoughby who has a habit of removing his clothing and belittling his son. There is the butler who is having an affair with Lady Willoughby and is blackmailing a number of young women.

This one also has a bit of romance when the second governess, who has been hiding a secret identity, falls in love with the younger and handsomer of the two brothers - the same one Lady Willoughby wants.

Lucy is sure that she will be able to solve the crime, if only Lord Adair will give her a hint. This story is a bit less silly than the first in the series but still has a number of humorous scenes and characters. I like that Lucy is one women who isn't one of the many ladies who are in love with Lord Adair and willing to do anything to attract his attention. I liked that she wanted Lord Adair to teach her how to investigate and how to protect herself and didn't want to be helpless.

I enjoyed this story and recommend it to fans of humorous historical mysteries.

Favorite Quote:

Claybrook frowned. "What was that?"

"I-I sneezed," Lucy responded red-faced.

Claybrook frowned, and then his eyes widened in understanding. "That, Miss Trotter, does not smell like a sneeze."

"I have stinky sneezes," Lucy mumbled under her breath.

"Good lord," Claybrook wheezed. "It's so bad, you made Johnny cry."

Master Willoughby wiped his tears and bowed to Lucy. "Madam, that was magnificent. May I know what you ate for dinner?"

Lucy closed her eyes and whispered in mortification. "Beans and cabbage. Ghastly beans and cabbage."

I received this one in exchange for an honest review from the author. You can buy your copy here.