Death at Bishop's Keep

A Victorian Mystery, Book 1

By: Robin Paige, Susan Wittig Albert

Narrated by: Helen Johns

Length: 11 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

Kate Ardleigh is everything the Victorian English gentlewoman is not - outspoken, free-thinking, American...and a writer of the frowned upon penny dreadfuls. Soon after her arrival in Essex, England, a body is unearthed in a nearby archeological dig - and Kate has the chance to not only research her latest story but to begin her first case with amateur detective Sir Charles Sheridan.

©1998 Robin Paige (P)2020 Dreamscape Media, LLC

Victorian Murder Mystery

I love a good murder mystery and this one didn’t disappoint. A young, free-thinking, American woman travels to England where she doesn’t quite fit the mold of the traditional society lady. There are mysteries and murders to be solved. The narrator brings the story to life with a brilliant performance. The story moves quickly and keeps you engaged.

Lovely, pleasant story, except for one thing…

This was a solidly enjoyable book, with impeccably era appropriate dialogue, and an intriguing "who done it" story. My only complaint is that the narrator, who I am guessing is native British, does a nails-on-chalkboard rendition of an American accent from the late 1800s. Her American accent is like a super mundane 21st-century generic American accent… No inflection and overt, over the top "American" I pronunciation. It's hard to listen to… Especially after her excellent and proper pronunciation of all the rest of the characters. Yes, the character is American… But I am quite certain that a 1880s American lady who immigrated from New York back to England, would not sound like our protagonist. I couldn't get it out of my craw. But the book itself, and the storyline were quite enjoyable, and I will listen to the next volume. But just be aware of what you're getting into.

American, red headed and Irish

Our heroine a independent woman with no interest in following the norms of the day finds herself invited to England by an unknown aunt, where he straight forward nature is excused because she is American, red haired and Irish.

As a author of penny dreadfuls she is excited to learn of a recent murder when she arrives and is determined to learn all she can to add to her stories. She gets more than she bargains for.

Love this series!!!!!!

I read this series 1st book along time ago and now have re-listen to it.
I am thrilled that she is releasing new recordings!!!

Good start to a series

This was an enjoyable read. The setting is interesting. The characters were well developed. I shall read the next in the series.

A wonderful series on so many levels

This “detective “ series is beautifully written. It is set in Victorian England in the days of Sherlock Holmes, and even includes a cameo from Conan Doyle himself. These historical novels are well researched and documented, including appearances from historic figures themselves, from servants “below stairs “ to the prince himself. Lovely descriptions of the countryside, homes and palaces make the scenes vivid.
The leading heroine and her male friend are both strong, intelligent characters that one can trust to unravel tightly woven mysteries. Helen John’s narration is a delight to listen to; her many voices and accents bring the stories to life. I highly recommend this series.

Good read

I enjoyed this mystery and appreciated the historical references. The reader did a very good job.

Wonderful Series - now in audio!

I’m so happy to be revisiting this series in audio format now. I love Robin Paige - Susan Wittig Albert! Thank you!

Cozy

This is a cozy mystery with a charming heroine and all the things you'd wish for in a classical murder mystery.

The First Book Sets Up An Enjoyable Series

I read this cozy series years ago and remembered it as very entertaining. The Audible version narrated by Helen Johns adds to those good memories and I’m certain I will enjoy “rereading” the series. The first book spends a lot of time familiarizing the reader with Kate Ardleigh and her evolving circumstances. There is a murder(s) but it is I think secondary to the setup of the longer term characters in the series. Make a nice cup of tea and sit down to enjoy a good story. I’m looking forward to revisiting old friends.