This was a great addition to a fun, interesting, and addictive series! I loved meeting the new characters in this book (the Inspector and his family in particular) as well as the different setting in France, although I am glad that Gladstone, Clifford, and the rest of Eleanor’s staff were still heavily involved in this story. Detective Seldon was sorely missed in this installment, but I hope he plays a bigger role in the next one!

The best laid plans... can go off track!

Eleanor and her butler Clifford are off to a villa in southern France for a little vacation. Their holiday doesn't start well - there's a dead body in the wine cellar! When it surfaces that the body belongs to an American actor from a movie being filmed nearby, Eleanor & co. get caught up in the investigation when one of them might be under suspicion

Liked:
- the period setting of the 1920s
- the quirkiness of the characters
- who-dun-nit nature of the book
- French grammar used by the French characters speaking in English

Didn't enjoy:
- some of the 'americanisms' that seem to have crept into this book

This is my first book by Verity Bright and I'd like probably go back catch up with the series’ earlier books,

(I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions are my own)

Well, I always love it when there is a new Lady Swift book to read.

Ellie is a strong woman, far ahead of her time, and the relationship she has with Clifford is just wonderful.

As always, we see the great dynamic between lady and butler and the way in which they work together to solve the murder.

I loved the learning elements that were written into the story. There were facts about Napoleon, and French culture, and the ways of Hollywood and the rich back in the 20s. I found it so very interesting!

The only downside to this book is that there wasn’t enough of Hugh for my liking, but it’s just because he is a book crush of mine 😜

Another great addition to the series.

“A grand villa, croissants for breakfast and a dead body in the wine cellar… Lady Swift can’t seem to take a vacation from murder!”


It doesn’t seem possible that this is the tenth episode, in this totally addictive and immersive, ‘Golden Age’, cozy mystery series. The murders Lady Eleanor Swift has been called upon to solve to date, have all been very diverse, yet quintessentially typically British in their nature. However in this case, I am very much minded of similar French Riviera locations and characters introduced to readers by the late, great Agatha Christie in a couple of her books, but with a few clever twists, which makes this very much, a uniquely Verity Bright storyline.

Still more than worth the full 5*, for me personally, this storyline did not resonate quite so easily as those of previous episodes. Not because of any fault with the plot, which was just as devious and difficult to unravel. Or because of the quality of the narrative and dialogue, which was so immersive and descriptive that I was left feeling more than satisfied with my first virtual trip along the Cote d’Azur. I believe it is simply that the raucous goings on, together with the alcohol and drug excesses among the rich and famous of the upper class thespian set and artist scene, are just not me and did not make me feel comfortable or relaxed.

I felt that the descriptive narrative and dialogue, offering a very real sense of time and place, was particularly strong in this storyline. However if, like myself, you are a confirmed ‘armchair traveller’ and real sucker for detail about location in your reading, then flick to the end of the book before you settle down with the story and check out the ‘Historical Notes’ section. Author, Verity Bright, has provided plenty of delicious facts about so many of the locations, events and physical objects, which are alluded to in the story, that I defy you not to be sated after reading it and suitably armed to dive into the action. In fact, you really should read it, no matter how ‘au fait’ you may consider yourself to be about detail, it is just so interesting and informative.

…

Right! My usual ‘spoiler free’ dash through the storyline, is going to be very short and sweet this time, as the premise is already quite replete with detail, and spoilers lurk around just about every corner!

Do my eyes deceive me, or did I just read that Lady Eleanor Swift, at the ripe old age of 31 years, has decided to finally take her title and position seriously and retire from the amateur sleuthing game. Is she really about to spend her summer in a villa on the Cote d’Azur, doing all the things expected of someone in her position – being seen in all the right places and lazing around the pool looking decorative? Well, that little plan works for about an hour, until her butler, come confidante, come valued mentor, Clifford, discovers a body in the cellar and all hell breaks loose when the French police hit the scene. Or rather the very eccentrically dressed and dapper, Inspector Damboise, who jumps to instant conclusions, partly fuelled by the fact that it is Mayor Lessard, who essentially runs the town and has the final say about almost everything, and who wants to avoid the scandal of a murder at all costs, especially when some rich and influential visiting American film makers, are involved. He is quite willing for his more restrained and dignified British cousins to shoulder the blame for a crime, which to all intents and purposes, never even happened, and it takes all of Eleanor’s cajoling ways and feminine wiles to strike a deal, in an effort to free Clifford and save his reputation.

When help of the four-legged variety saves the day, Clifford and Eleanor are reunited, but only on the proviso that they solve the mystery of both the body in the cellar and the missing letting agent, without causing any undue fuss amongst the temperamental American film crew, or the homegrown French artisans who are tagging along, more than happy to party at someone else’s expense. In fact, they are all living it up large, at huge cost to Kitty and Floyd Fitzwilliams, fellow Americans, money brokers, turned benefactors of the arts, who are splashing the cash as if it is going out of fashion. No one can explain who they are and why they have shown up at this particular time and place, although it becomes obvious to Eleanor and Clifford, that their presence is definitely more by design rather than coincidence. None of this large, sprawling and self-entitled group of humanity are particularly likeable. They have no regard for someone else’s property and it’s not only the money which seems to be flowing with complete abandon. Alcohol and various other substances are freely available and amidst this melee, Eleanor has to try and surreptitiously question any suspects, without arousing their suspicions, which would in turn bring the ire of the mayor down upon her.

When one murder becomes two, time is running out for Eleanor and Clifford, as with filming complete, the Americans prepare to pack up and cross back over the ocean, with the French returning to their own disparate enclaves of Bohemia. When finally the various strands of the case begin to come together and Eleanor spots the missing link, she unwittingly on this occasion, puts not only her own life in serious danger, but Clifford’s also, for which she feels abjectly miserable and guilty. Whilst things eventually ‘came good’ for all concerned, even the limelight seeking Mayor, everyone was more than happy to get life back to normal, with peace and quiet being the order of things, after all the high energy conflict of the last few days.

…

As always, this multi-layered, highly textured, traditional murder/mystery storyline, was well structured and fluently written over many concise and well signposted chapters, which kept the action fast-paced and seamlessly evolving, with literally never a dull moment. The suspect list was lengthy, the twists and turns just kept on coming, and even Clifford’s usually well-ordered mind struggled to correlate the facts in any meaningful way. This time it was very much Eleanor, whose much more haphazard approach to solving a murder, was totally suited to the ever changing complexities of this mystery, saved the day, but only at the absolute eleventh hour. Although how she arrived at her conclusions I never could quite work out, so ultimately the actual perpetrator was nowhere to be found on my own suspect list.

A large, sprawling cast of guest characters appear in this episode, none of which, with the possible exception of Inspector Damboise, are particularly likeable, or in whom I could invest too much of my time or emotional energy. Selfish, demanding, manipulative and duplicitous, are all words which come readily to mind, to describe this eclectic mix of artisans, who are all jostling for the position of ‘top dog’, which made for a very unreliable, volatile and toxic atmosphere whenever they were around, meaning I was always on the edge of my seat and alert for their sudden changes in demeanour and temperament.

In my review of book #9 in the series, I described Clifford as an enigma. However, during the course of this latest investigation, Eleanor is taken into his confidence in a way hitherto unknown to anyone except her late Uncle Byron, who had been acquainted with Clifford since he was a young man. In a rare display of trust and openness, he answers many of Eleanor’s questions, his explanations only confirming Eleanor’s own thoughts about the way in which he is able to handle himself in a difficult situation, yet manages to maintain his decorum at all other times. His loyalty to his new mistress is without question, although at times he appears to act more like a middle-aged bachelor uncle, than a stuffed-shirt butler and Eleanor now understands just exactly how much it means to have such a wise confidante by her side.

The rather Bohemian background of Eleanor’s youth and the fact that little phases or shocks her, comes in very handy with her dealings with this eclectic mix of entitled humanity. However, as her closer working relationship with the redoubtable Inspector Damboise, brings her into contact with his charming wife and family, it also becomes all too apparent to the ever watchful and observant Clifford, just how easily his mistress relates to the young Damboise children, as an altogether softer side to her personality emerges. I think that even Eleanor herself is surprised by her changing emotions and feelings, so I really think that Hugh might need to get his act together and declare his intentions, if he is in anyway serious about their relationship, before Eleanor might find the need to move on without him.

Even the ever faithful Gladstone, manages to disgrace himself on foreign soil, leaving just about everyone he visits hopping around on one foot, whilst they play the new game of ‘shoe hide and seek’! Like everyone else, by the time this current debacle is over, he will be pleased to return to home shores and the comfort of his own hearth. Also, like his mistress, he will be happy to see the dependable Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, who only played a short cameo telephone role in this episode and was very much missed. However, having found out about the danger his irrepressible companion has put herself in once again, both Eleanor and Clifford are going to have to face some very loud music, before life can return to anything resembling normal.

August 1923 & Lady Eleanor Swift is finally persuaded by her butler, Clifford, to take a villa in the south of France. She plans to do what a glamorous lady abroad should: long lunches on the balcony followed by lazy afternoons lounging by the pool. Even Gladstone the bulldog is looking forward to a daily paddle in the ocean. But when Clifford examines the wine cellar, he discovers there are no decent reds but there is a very dead body. The victim is famous American movie star Chester Armstrong who’s been stabbed with a sabre. Before Eleanor even has time to change out of her travelling suit, her beloved butler is arrested for the crime. At sea without her right-hand man, Eleanor must gather her wits if she’s to outsmart a murderer and save Clifford.
This is the tenth outing for Ellie, Clifford, Gladstone & the ladies & another well written, well paced story. I love Ellie & Clifford & loved that more of Clifford’s backstory was revealed. There’s no Hugh, apart from a couple of phone calls, I missed him. I think this is my least favourite of the series as I didn’t like the secondary characters of the rich & famous they were all far too shallow & self centred. I was kept guessing as to who the villain was as there were plenty of red herrings as well as twists & turns & I enjoyed how Ellie & Clifford hindered, in some ways by the local mayor, worked out who & why the murders had been committed. I look forward to the next in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

Lights, camera….MURDER!!

Lady Swift goes to Hollywood! Well, not quite so, but a piece of Hollywood comes to Eleanor in this 10th installment in the series. It’s always great to see Ellie and her troupe out of Henley Hall and this time we’re transported to the South of France, which made the perfect setting for murder and mayhem.

Lady Eleanor is taking a much needed vacation in the French Riviera but, as soon as she steps foot in her rental house, her butler Clifford finds a very dead body in the wine cellar. He turns out to be a huge American movie star that was shooting a movie there and, with no other suspects, French police arrest Clifford accused of murder. If Ellie wants to save her butler (and friend), she’ll have to infiltrate the movie and art world to uncover the real killer.

At this stage in the series we already know Ellie’s like a magnet for dead bodies, and in this case the dead body makes an appearance in the very first line! From there we have a really entertaining mystery with plenty of suspects and red herrings that will force you to put your thinking cap on. I had some suspicions about the who but didn’t guess their motivations.

One of my favorite things about this series is Ellie and Clifford’s relationship. It has evolved from a working deal to a true friendship based on mutual love and respect. It was great to learn a bit more about Clifford’s past. I also adore how Ellie treats the ladies of Henley Hall and, despite having a different status, a bad word towards them will never cross her lips.

The French Riviera scenario was brought amazingly to life, making you feel you were driving along those twisty roads or contemplating the beautiful views while sipping some champagne.

I was a bit sad to not see more of Hugh this time as I always find his interactions with Ellie so cute and fun. Hopefully next time we’ll see more of how their relationship is moving forward.

The historical notes at the end were so helpful and l loved to learn about some of the real inspiration the author drew from to write this story.

Another great addition to the series!

Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I haven't read all the previous books in this series just one to two. I did feel that I was perhaps missing out on some of the nuances from not having read the other's but overall as a mystery it can be read as a stand alone. A well written story with lots of likeable characters with a mystery as a side bar. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Suspend disbelief and enjoy a nonsensical romp through murder and mayham in 1920s French Riviera. Lady Eleanor Swift,along with her trusty butler Clifford and her bulldog Gladstone plus assorted staff, are supposed to be resting after her involvement in recent murders. However,she hasn't had her first glass if champagne before she finds herself once again thrown into the world if murder, corruption, decadence and debauchery. Full of caricatured French police, movie stars and assorted extras it is sheer escapism

I enjoyed this novel which is entertaining and gripping as the other. The different setting is interesting as it starts with the discovery of a murder and Clifford being arrested.
Eleanor is involved in another murder investigation, and she will have to face a different policeman and people from the world of cinema.
The story is well plotted, and some parts made me laugh out loud. The mystery is full of twists and kept me guessing as usual.
I was bit perplexed when I met the French detective the first time as he seemed a cross between Inspector Clouseau and the stereotype of the French men. It was the first impression because the character was more complex, and I appreciated how the author developed him.
It was another well plotted and entertaining story that I read in one sitting.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Another book in the Lady Swift cosy/historical mystery series written by the husband-wife writing team with the pen name Verity Bright. I didn´t read all books in the series, but they were definitely getting better.
This one starts excitingly with the murder in the first sentence, and who should be suspected but Eleanor´s butler Clifford? From there on the mystery and its setting at the French Riviera are entertaining when Eleanor sets out to prove Clifford´s innocence, meeting all kinds of people - and suspects. A pity the tempo slows down later on, only to find out about the murderer in a kind of show-down, though the reader cannot follow the mystery logically with all the suspects and complications. I as usual loved the setting, the characters in the house and around, but I didn´t like the prejudices and haughtiness of the English against the French.
Thanks for Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.

I was very excited to read a book about a murder mystery set in France!! This was my first time reading the Lady Swift books and you can definitely read this as a standalone going into it. The book starts with the murder straight away in the wine cellar while Lady Eleanor and her butler are vacationing in the Riviera, however I struggled with the pacing afterwards as it was quite slow and found some of the parts hard to follow. The investigation into who could potentially be the murderer was interesting and kept you on your toes.

I thought it was a fun read and perfect for those who love a cozy historical mystery.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review😊

This is a delightful romp on the Riviera written in a rather tongue-in-cheek and amusing manner, but with an interesting murder case and a charming and likeable heroine. It is sure to keep you reading late into the night to discover who the murderer is!
Lady Eleanor Swift (who bears a remarkable resemblance to Gloria Swanson) is looking forward to a relaxing holiday in a luxurious Riviera villa when her Carlton-esque butler informs her that there is a body in the cellar! Eleanor sets out to discover who the killer is, while having a wonderful time dressed to the nines attending parties and travelling along the scenic coastline. The victim was an actor in a Hollywood movie being made nearby, and Eleanor's investigations involve quite a few interesting characters, including a Fitzgerald-like golden couple, a snarky diva, and a charming, but annoying French detective.

I haven't read the previous novels by Verity Bright, but I hope that they are as enjoyable as this one.

I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

EDITION Ebook
ISBN 9781803143231
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This is the 10th book in the series but you could read it as a standalone and it make sense.

I really enjoyed this book - usually the butler features a little but not as much as I'd like whereas this book the main focus is on him (without giving too much away!) And for that I raced through it.

I'll look out for more in the series!

Thank you for the arc.

I found this story to be very enjoyable, as were the characters. Looking forward to book 11, as well as catching up with books 1-9.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Another lovely installment in this cozy mystery series featuring Lady Eleanor Swift.

It’s hard to keep a long running series fresh and fun but Verity Bright manages with aplomb. This episode finds Eleanor and her companion butler, Clifford, along with the Hall retainers, visiting a villa in southern France for a little vacation. Their holiday begins with the discovery of a dead body in the wine cellar — an American actor who is starring in a movie currently being shot in the area. Of course they are soon involved in the investigation.

I always enjoy the period details of historical fiction set in the 1920s and the descriptions bring the setting and era to life on the pages. I like the main characters and the interaction between Eleanor and Clifford. Looking forward to the next installment.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for t his e-book ARC to read and review. I’d recommend the entire series and suggest that they be read, from the beginning, in order.

Within the first hour of arriving with staff,faithful gladstone and loyal Clifford Lady Eleanor Swift is embroiled again with the mystery of a dead body in the wine cellar.
This time though its personal as Clifford finds himself arrested for the murder...can Lady Swift solve the murder and have her Clifford released

gendarmes, amateur-sleuth, cosy-mystery, dog, France, friction, friendship, murder, murder-investigation, relationships, 1920s, historical-novel, historical-research, history-and-culture, verbal-humor, situational-humor*****

An American film star is found murdered in the rental villa by Clifford, Verity's friend, mentor, and The Butler Who Knows Everything only a very few hours after their arrival. The gendarmes haul him off to their jail and the madness REALLY begins! Add in a good spoof of American actors of the time, Verity's attempts to drive a rental car on her wrong side of the road, great descriptions of the scenery and attire, and all the fun that comes with each and every book in this series I love. A wonderful addition to the series, but I think that this one stands alone very easily.
I requested and received a temporary digital ARC of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

The French for Murder is set in 1923, with Lady Eleanor Swift as the protagonist (this is number 10 in the series).
She is resting in her French villa when a movie star from a local film is found dead in her wine cellar.

The butler is charged with murder and it is up to Swift to solve it

Ellie and her household gang, are at it again. Trying to have a peaceful holiday in the south of France, it changed when a famous American actor is found stabbed in the wine cellar of their rental. Love this series, but did find this one a bit slower than some of the others. Liked it and would recommend, but would have liked to see more of Hugh instead of the French police. May just be me. Fun series and author.

Lady Eleanor Swift is in the south of France when a body is discovered in the wine cellar by her

butler and friend Clifford.. Her holiday turns into a murder investigation as she sleuths around film sets, an old

castle and the casino at Monte Carlo looking for clues. This is a very humorous and exciting story, full of suspects

to keep you on your toes. It is stylish and full of great banter. but there's a dangerous murderer to catch.

A thoroughly enjoyable read..