Book Review: Death Of An Aristocrat (A Lucy Anne Trotter Mystery) by Anya Wylde

This is a truly fun romp!

Death Of An Aristocrat (A Lucy Anne Trotter Mystery): A Laugh Out Loud Cozy Mystery
by Anya Wylde

File Size: 576 KB
Print Length: 208 pages
Publication Date: February 28, 2020
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
Language: English
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Regency, Woman Sleuth
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

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.

Review:
Sweet Lucy Anne Trotter has been struggling as a governess of five unruly children at Gopshall Manor. When a visiting Lord is found murdered, Lucy becomes the first suspect. Lucy steals a horse and pushes through a snowstorm to reach the one man she knows who can help, Lord Adair. Lucy has previously helped Adair solve one murder in a home where she was serving (Murder at Rudhall Manor). Most women stumble over themselves or faint at the sight of the most handsome Lord Adair. Lucy isn’t awed by Adair as she doesn’t have any misguided thoughts that he could find her interesting. Lucy just knows Adair is a national hero who knows how to solve crimes. Lord Adair has taken a special interest in protecting Lucy but that doesn’t mean he wants to take her on as an assistant.

Lord Adair tells Lucy to suspect everyone. Initially, she doesn’t even trust the other sweet governess, Jane. Jane is watching the children of the manor’s younger son, Lord Claybrook, with whom she has been developing a warm relationship. It is easy to try to blame the crime on the two outsider governesses but soon they team up to help investigate in the hope of saving their own necks. Impulsive, looney Lucy rubs off a bit on quiet Jane who gets bold enough to follow suspects and sneak into rooms. The pair begin to uncover clues but they are putting themselves in danger as they proceed.

The zaniness of Ms. Lucy and the exaggerated regency setting are such fun. I enjoy Lucy’s antics and her relationship with Lord Adair. The romance between Jane and Lord Claybrook added a side element. There are other interesting (and appalling characters) with varied motives. Some have alibis that can be confirmed… or not.

There are a few editing errors so my rating isn't a full 5 star. I recommend this author for quick, fun reading and I recommend this story as a clear, delightful romp.

Source: Supplied by Author 2020. This qualifies for 2020 Author Review goal.