Poppy Morton is a very smart and intelligent young woman. Despite the circumstances of her birth, she faces life head on with courage. The only people I respect in this book is Aunt Rachel and a new family member. As for Sergeant Henry Dyngley, my respect for him went down the drain. What I think of him can't be written down in public. Murder, attempted murder, blackmail, robbery and a man desperate enough to destroy Poppy's reputation. Who can you trust? Poppy's final play reminds me of Nick Charles' revelations of who done it at the end of each THIN MAN movie.

The Deadly Debutante
by EL Johnson

Balls, horseback riding, walks in pretty gardens, shopping for dresses, going to Gunters for an ice. What we do have is murderer, someone out to destroy the lives of five young ladies, who are partaking in The Season, The Marriage Mart, and yes it's competitive, in this book, it's deathly competitive. That part of the story I found interesting, the parts that I found to be juvenile is the attitude of Poppy, this is part of a series, and this is my first book, I found Poppy immature, kind yes, but not overly intelligent, she lets herself be intimidated by her Uncle who has raised her.
It was slow at times but a great read.

A Historical Mystery with a Dash of Romance

Poppy is in London, courted by two men and befriended by women, one of whom just might be a killer. Scandal, deadly danger, and scandal will keep you entertained. Can Poppy catch a killer? Will her quest to find this person put her in peril? If you like historical mysteries with a dash of romance, you might want to read this book to find the answer.

The Deadly Debutante. Oh- my- God- this - book - was- fantastic. For me this is another smashing good book bedmate to cuddle up to. Put it this way, while reading this book, I didn’t pay attention to the outside world called my life. This story is filled with mystery and suspense.
The leading female character, Poppy is totally amazing. The writer created a realistic story that took me on a tour filled with exciting and entertaining events. These events somehow always follows Poppy and her family. Like I always say; I love it when a book crosses my path with the ability to grab my intrigues imagination with a story that reads like a movie. The plot was excellent for the main characters.
For their own gratification of survival, the protagonist and antagonist maintained their goals that are often times emotional and very passionate. These details bring the heat to the story. Now I know that you are wondering why I stated “survival”. I chose this term, because once you read the book, you will think that everyone is taking their turn in a UFC match. All the secrets, lies and evil intentions appears from the darkest corners where the light from a candle can not reach. I enjoyed the fact that this story was a page turner that kept me up, reading into the late night hours. It was the anticipation of needing to know who did what and how it happened. It was also the blooming romance between Poppy and her constable Henry Dyngley that stills the show for us readers. I wanted something to happen between these two so bad. My favorite characters are Miss Cook and Aunt Rachel.
These two from the beginning new what was up, and who to keep a watchful eye out for. Mr. Terrell and Uncle Richard really grated on my nerves, but that’s how good the writing is, because these two characters were so believable. Poppy’s name was a good one for her character. Every time that little vermin said whore or called her Poppy she should ball up her fist and pop him in the eye.
Vermin: Now Pop- oww!
Poppy: ( Innocently acts) I’m sorry did you say something?
Vermin: Pop- oww!
Poppy: ( Innocently caring) Oh dear. Did something get caught in your eye? ( Pause ) Excuse me, but are you ill?
People if you love a good historical romance with suspicious characters, then this is the book. If you love a crazy uncle and a loving aunt, then this is the book. If you love a hero who needs to be reminded of what he has standing before him with her heart reaching out to him, then this is the book. Lets talk about the book. Clearly we suspect that something is transpiring between Poppy and Henry.
I thought that the introduction of their romance is very thoughtful and wonderfully written. I pictured Henry as a Mr. Holmes. In his early stages, mind you. One thing that will never change for Henry is his desire for Poppy and his willingness to make her smile and be happy every moment of every day. Oh no! Don’t say that. Sigh. What ever are you to do Miss Parkinson?
Do you hear me laughing? Bwahaha. Poppy is the most sought after young woman who everyone must have the attention of. I think it’s because the warm compassion and the beauty of her person that listens to them. Through not fault of her own some people are jealous of this.
And believe me, Poppy now’s how to handle herself. Don’t worry about the action, because Henry has her six. Sarah, Sarah. What can I say about this woman? I know what I can say. If I’m wearing my elegant white gown and whine has been thrown on me! You remember that intro of Stone Cold in WMA fights? That’s me.
Can you hear the bell ding? I’m coming at cha wearing the face of M. Ali. Be ready, because my strike is like Ali’s last punch in the final round. I tell you. It will be like a meet me outside moment.
Somewhere in all this can Poppy and her father have a bonding relationship? I give this book two snaps and a, excuse me Mr. Terrell. The left or right eye? How about just the nose? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book for a voluntary honest review

I hope there is more in store for Poppy and Henry in this series of books by EL Johnson as I am far from done with the many interesting characters around our hero/heroine.. Poppy is in London having been offered a Season by her father. Exciting times for her, however she can't go far without a murder and a mystery. All of Johnsons books so far in this series have been very well plotted and executed so I knew this would be good. Not wrong, Poppy has the added issue of acquiring yet another suitor in the form of her uncles protégé who is a thoroughly unlikeable specimen. All ingredients for a good read. I urge readers to begin with the first in the series to get the full picture of these characters. My grateful thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for another great book.

This is definitely a murder mystery novel. However, if you enjoy science fiction, while not the same, Poppy seems to resemble a similar version of Nancy Drew if there was an alternate timeline in the universe. The novel is not written in the same manner., Poppy and Nancy do share a few similarities in how they solve mysteries, have an innocent relationship with their beau, as well as a very beautiful and stylish vehicle for their time which most girls would not have. It had me hooked from the start.
Poppy Morton is the heroine in this four novel series, who happens to enjoy solving crimes with her beau, Henry, the newly promoted sergeant of their town.. Born the illegitimate daughter of Lord Blackmore and her mother, who were deeply in love. However, her mother gave birth in secret to protect Poppy and her father from the scandal and expected scorn from the aristocracy. Poppy has been raised by her mother's sister Aunt Rachel and very strict clergyman Uncle Reginald, who disowned Poppy's mother, and is doing everything he can to prevent her daughter from becoming like her mother.
The previous three novels and their storylines are written as her backstory, to describe her character, and did not make it feel like a summary. Because it was written as her backstory, it isn't necessary to read the previous novels to understand who the main characters have been throughout the series.
She and her father have recently discovered each other, and are beginning to form a true relationship as much as they can within the boundaries of society, not publicly embarrass his wife, and ruin his other two children in society. While his wife has never wanted to be with him, and refused any type of relationship after she produced the heir and spare, he did not want to disrespect her. However, he wanted to be a father to Poppy in any way he could. He wants to give her a Season in London, as a way to enjoy society, and experience what girls in his station do, It saddens him he cannot sponsor her even though he would proudly do, but unable since he is not allowed to publicly acknowledge her within society.
Shortly after her father is thrown out of the house by her uncle since her father represents sin by having a relationship with a whore, even though Poppy is the daughter of the "whore." Coincidently, Terrence Turrell, a clergy student comes to stay at their house by invitation of her uncle, who refers to him as his protégé. The author does a very good way of letting us know he's creepy, slimy, and has an ulterior motive regarding Poppy. He is determined to marry her, and make her become a submissive, weak-willed, who he will put in her place as his wife.
Henry, her beau, comes to the house to ask her uncle if he can court her. Mr. Turrell then demands to be allowed as well. Uncle Reginald agrees to let Poppy have a season in London, as long as she lets Mr. Turrell court her as well. While Poppy cannot stand him, she agrees to her uncle's terms.
Immediately after their arrival, Mr. Turrell starts his slimy campaign to practically trap her into marriage. Have I mentioned he's slimy? Poppy is quickly brought into the fold of a group of four friends within the Ton. Each has secrets, both together as well as their own. They do not seem to trust one another whenever any of the four are alone with Poppy since they talk about the rest of the girls, and never in a positive fashion. They find out she has investigated crimes and unusual occurrences in the past. Without the others knowing, each girl asks her to look into things that have happened in the past as well as those happening now.
There are murders and mysteries throughout the novel. Of course there are also misunderstandings, assumptions, and subterfuge. Everyone and yet no-one is a suspect in anything. You cannot forget the two courting her.
There are no blood or disturbing descriptions of any murder or actions in the novel. There are a few kisses, but they are sweet and innocent.
The characters have their own stories, and they're believable for the most part. I honestly do not understand how a group of friends with so much venom within the group can actually survive. It was like an early 1800's version of "Mean Girls." I would be afraid to end up on the bad side of their viperous tongues. The only issue I had with the girls was with the name usage. When they were together, their first names were used. Outside of their group, their surnames were used. Yes, it is historically accurate, but it was confusing at times. I could not figure out who was who at times. A tiny description or hint in the beginning to differentiate them might have helped. It was the same with the younger men as well. I had to go back, and figure it out a few times. This really didn't distract from the story though. It may not distract others. Each reader sees things differently.
Henry was a sweetheart, but a little weak as well. He loves Poppy, but does a poor job of courting her. He does not seem to know how to do so correctly, and is given advice from time to time. It helps make him even sweeter.
Miss Cooke, Poppy's lady's maid, was wonderful. She seemed to be the only adult in Poppy's household who didn't have blinders on, and knew the true nature of people.
I could not help but fall in love with Poppy's father. While he could not always be with her, he was there for her. It was obvious he cared deeply for her, and did everything he could to protect her as his daughter.
I would definitely recommend this fun read to anyone who enjoys murder mysteries without violence, gore or bad language. The setting of the Regency period was an added bonus as well.
This can be enjoyed by younger teens as well as adults.
While this is the fourth of the four novel series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. It will make you very curious about the other three. While this wrapped up the series nicely, there is also room for more to come if the author chooses to lengthen the series.
Worth the 5 stars.

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

So many murders, but how many suspects?

Poppy travels to have a season as requested by her father that she recently found out about. Her mother was his Mistress, so if that secret got out, she could be disowned by the ton.

Henry, now Seargent Dyngly, also heads for the season with an annoying sister in law trying to find a lady for him.

Poppy meets a group of ladies and she starts to learn of a previous fall death and a lot of bad accidents. As events progress more tragedy strikes and Poppy is in the middleof it all, but trying to solve the mystery.

Even though we want Poppy to get more time with Henry in this book, clingy Mr. Terrell is forced to be her suitor by her uncle. Boy is he creepy.

I like how this unfolded and how everything was revealed at the end. I had sone suspicions, but there is definitely a lot of series of events that lined up to help figure it all out. This myself had a good puzzle to it. I want to see what happens with Poppy next after how much went down in this book!

Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.

This was an interesting series of books. It was a mystery in which the main character solved different Mysteries. I think this was the last book. I enjoyed the book but wished it had more romance in it. It was mainly a mystery. A new author for me but I enjoyed the stories. If you're looking for a straight up mystery this is your cup of tea.

Miss Poppy Morton has had a lot of changes and adventures in the last year. Now a recently found relative ìs giving her a London season. Her investigations, adventures and family upheaval continues.

Henry Dyngley has received a promotion, but it had strings attached he doesn't know about.

Both of our lead characters are under family pressure, but death proves quite a distraction.

This book is part of a series that really should be read in order. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed all of them. Lots of murder and mystery for us to solve along with our characters. It's very difficult to guess the villain amongst so many people with dubious characters to choose from.

Great fun.

3.5 stars

I'm sure I liked the others in the series. We are still in the will they / wont they between Poppy and Henry.

Poppy's father, who made himself known at the end of the third book, wants to give Poppy a season as long as his connection and the fact that she's illegitimate doesn't come out. Her Uncle the vicar is fairly condescending but his wife persuades him to let them all go to London. They take along the vicar's creepy protege. Poppy meets other young ladies. I think it's worth pointing out that the social setting for these interactions is above the demi mode but only slightly encroaching on the ton, thus Poppy seems to have more freedom that I'd expect for someone having a season. She solves a theft and is on her way to solving a murder before another one takes place. Henry IMO is a bit of a fool and lets himself be manipulated by a Judges family, his sister-in-law and the many husband hungry devutantes. I think if you are a teenager you'll probably enjoy this series but I am starting to find it hard work. I liked that Tom came back into the story. It may be that this is the last of the series?

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

Poppy receives the gift of a London Season from her distant father; who hopes she might make a suitable match. Although she would prefer to spend time with her beau, Sergeant Henry Dyngley. Henry’s thrilled to be promoted to Sergeant. As a favour to the judge who arranged his promotion, he agrees to escort the man’s daughter for the Season not knowing that the judge’s family has chosen him as a desirable son-in-law and will do anything to achieve this, regardless of what feelings Henry may have for another girl. In London, Poppy’s new debutante friends are surrounded by scandal due to a past incident that left one man dead. Now they are stalked by suitors who want answers, and someone has decided that only death will right a past wrong. One of Poppy’s new friends begs her to help find the culprit.
The fourth outing for Poppy & Henry, it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading in order. I love Poppy & even when things fall apart she pulls herself together & carries on, she’s strong & intelligent. Oh Henry you really blotted your copy book in this book, I would certainly have made you grovel! A very well written book, which flowed effortlessly, the characters are well portrayed & there’s even more than one mystery, I thoroughly enjoyed it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

I loved this book! Read it in just a few hours. Could not get enough. Didn’t see the ending coming. Would definitely read again and buy it.

I really enjoyed the previous books in this series so I came in with some high expectations - which were happily met. I have loved the character of Poppy since we met her in the first book. She's smart, strong, and doesn't let anything keep her down for too long. Even when everything falls apart in this story she takes her moment to cry it out and then is back on her feet standing up for herself (and solving a murder). I had been hoping we would get to know more about Tom (from book 3) and we certainly did! I love his back-and-forth with Poppy. If she wasn't so in love with Henry I would 100% be supportive of a Poppy-Tom relationship. I also loved to see how Aunt Rachel kept coming through for Poppy - the moment between her and Susan was definitely one of my favorites. Henry and Poppy's uncle really let me down in this book. Her uncle was so judgmental and hypocritical (as Poppy points out to him). I can understand as a member of the clergy why he may have complicated feelings about Poppy - he obviously loves her but at the same time can't get past who her parents are - but his support of Mr. Terrell even with all the shady stuff he had been doing just had me rolling my eyes. As for Henry, boy did he drop Poppy as soon as things got tough. When he accused Poppy of accusing Miss Parkinson of being a thief because she was jealous I wanted to smack him. I mean, come on, this is Poppy we are talking about, how could he think that of her? And to accuse of her being jealous when he couldn't stand to see her interacting with any male was downright hypocritical. Even after he had cut off ties with her he was still jealous when he saw her with another man. He comes through in the end, but I think Poppy let him off the hook a little too easily. Petunia was a complicated character in book 3 but here is just awful and unlikable. As for the mystery, it actually ended up being like 3 mysteries for the price of 1. It turned out Poppy didn't really need to do much investigating, she just needed to listen and pay attention to what was going on around her. The killer in this one was completely unhinged, but hid it pretty well through most of the book. I did not like her plan for saving Susan (I don't want to give anything away, but I'm sure you'll agree once you get to that part). I can't wait to see what comes next for Poppy.

The Deadly Debutante by EL Johnson

This is definitely action filled with the greatest suspense of the series. Well written, the plots are well put together, and overall great book! I didn't have the chance to put it down. Great book and I'm grabbing this when it's released!