Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this novel. I highly enjoyed it and will be recommending it to others.

Murder in Masquerade by Mary Winters is a delightful Victorian cozy mystery that follows Countess Amelia Amesbury, a secret advice columnist known as Lady Agony. When a young woman's elopement plans lead to a murder at the theater, Amelia teams up with the handsome marquis Simon Bainbridge to solve the case and save the family's reputation. The novel is filled with witty banter, engaging characters, and a well-crafted plot full of twists and turns that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its charming historical setting and romantic tension, this installment is a fun and intriguing addition to the series​.

This one was an entertaining read! I’m not sure if reading the first one is necessary, but I don’t know what I don’t know. I did feel like I followed along just fine though. I thought Amelia and Simon’s blossoming romance was really cute, and got pretty hot at times; but I loved that the main focus stayed on the mystery. I truly hadn’t guessed the culprit, and who I kept thinking it was got “mythbusted” and I was back to square one. I thought it respectful that even though the murdered guy sucked, they still wanted to get down to the bottom of the murder to alleviate the lover’s grieving.

"Murder in Masquerade" by Mary Winters is a mystery novel that combines elements of intrigue with a masquerade setting. While the plot offers some engaging twists, its appeal may vary depending on readers' preferences for classic whodunits and character-driven narratives.

In 1860, Amelia Amesbury, a widowed twenty-five-year-old countess, writes a weekly column under the pseudonym, "Lady Agony." Amelia responds to letters from people seeking advice about family conflicts, etiquette, affairs of the heart, and other matters, both serious and trifling. One of her answers is aimed at Marielle, the sister of the handsome and wealthy marquis, Lord Simon Bainbridge. Simon is determined to prevent his sister from eloping with Gerald Davies, a compulsive gambler, horse trainer, and rogue.

Amelia and Simon join forces to track down a killer and, although the two quarrel at times, it is obvious that they have deep feelings for one another. Winters nicely captures the atmosphere of London's Victorian Era, and in addition, it is amusing to read Lady Agony's witty, thought-provoking, and occasionally daring opinions. Amelia is careful to keep her identity as Lady Agony a secret, especially from her late husband's Aunt Tabitha, a formidable and opinionated woman with a sharp tongue and a critical attitude.

"Murder in Masquerade," by Mary Winters, has a colorful cast of characters and clever dialogue. Furthermore, the author effectively portrays the challenges that spirited and independent women faced at a time when they were treated as appendages of their husbands and children rather than individuals with aspirations of their own. Although the solution to this whodunit does not entirely ring true, this historical novel is an entertaining blend of humor, romance, and mayhem.

I was really excited to read this one -- as I love a murder mystery in a historical romance -- but this one just kind of lost its steam for me

Lady Agony, is Countess Amelia’s pen name in the paper. She gives advice to the women who ask for it.Amelia’s actions are ahead of her time, so needless to.say the men rarely agree with her advice. When Simon asks for help in turning his sister off the man she plans to runaway with, Amelia agrees to help.
Goodreads

I adored the first book in this series, and I couldn’t wait to catch up with Amelia and Simon in Murder in Masquerade and see if there would be any progress on the romance front. Ok, yes, I love the mystery and the other characters and the Victorian setting too but when you tease me with such great romantical sparks and chemistry and possibilities, y’all know that’s what I’m returning for haha. I am also delighted to report that everything I adored about Murder in Postscript is still present in spades in Murder in Masquerade… and that there are indeed some lovely scenes with Simon that had my KissingBooks heart all twitterpated.

Mary Winters’ writing voice is warm and charming and witty and so are her characters. Even crusty Aunt Tabitha who continues to grow on me, especially in this book. Amelia is a wonderful protagonist, plucky and friendly and smart. Her responses as Lady Agony – wherein she is most herself – provide a unique insight into her personality, layers which are further developed by her interactions with the supporting characters and murder investigations she finds herself in. Simon is still dashing and kind and a fierce protector of the women he cares about, including his sister Marielle and Amelia, while still respecting their independence though his sister challenges his ability in both regards in this book. Well, ok, maybe Amelia does too lol. Poor Simon 🙂

Which brings us to the mystery involving the man who’s been trying to convince Marielle to elope to Gretna Green, a man who Simon suspects is a scoundrel and definitely not worthy to be Marielle’s husband. Nevertheless, when the rogue winds up dead, Simon and Amelia investigate his death to help bring Marielle some closure. The investigation spans the gamut of suspects from high society to the criminal underworld, and once again Simon and Amelia – and her endearing best friend Kitty – make a great sleuthing team. I did not even remotely suspect the culprit, and I loved it. Here is where I do recommend that you read Murder in Postscript before starting this second book, as you might feel lost otherwise. There’s sufficient background given, but it’s not immediate, and I had to reorient myself a little too, though I was able to do so fairly quickly.

Bottom Line: Mary Winters continues to deliver a clever and entertaining Victorian mystery in the Lady of Letters Mysteries’ sophomore novel, Murder in Masquerade. Vibrant characters, a well-plotted murder investigation, witty humor, and even some delicious dashes of romance had me wishing to stay in this world indefinitely, not wanting the story to end. I once again loved the Lady Agony column that begins each chapter, and I was positively gleeful about the swoony chemistry that keeps growing stronger between Simon and Amelia. (I want to know if this author writes romance under a pen name because if so I want to read it!) Already eager for future books and another chance to hang out with these great characters!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Lady Amelia Amesbury is a young widow living with her aunt by marriage and raising her late husband’s niece. Amelia has a friend who is a newspaper editor, and he gave Amelia the job of responding to letters written to the paper’s advice column. However, “society” would not approve of someone of her social standing responding to these “Lady Agony” letters, so she must keep her involvement a secret. Things get complicated when one of the people asking for help is the younger sister of Amelia’s friend, Marquis Simon Bainbridge. Marielle is falling for an inappropriate man, but when the potential gold-digger is murdered, Amelia and Simon are on the case to find the killer.

This is the second book in the Lady of Letter series and although the case stands on its own, I think reading the first book will help you to really get to know and love the main characters. The book takes place in London in the year 1860. Amelia is definitely ahead of her time when it comes to what women should and shouldn’t do. She is rarely hesitant to express her opinions, especially in the responses to her readers that begin each chapter. The letters are definitely the highlight of the book. The subject of the letters is usually related to the events happening in that chapter. They give the reader a look at the customs during this period and how Amelia’s advice is often contrary to how most “ladies” would behave.

As Amelia and Simon investigate the murder and try to protect Marielle, the intelligence and the personality of both characters shine through. What is also apparent is the chemistry between Simon and Amelia. One of them makes a surprising move, but it’s too soon to tell if they will be able to overcome the obstacles in their way to actually begin a relationship. Except for a couple of missteps, they work well together in the investigation as they weed out the suspects in the murder of a man who made several enemies. Although I didn’t find this book as engaging as the first one, this is still a charming series with a unique premise that I recommend to cozy mystery and historical mystery fans.

~ Christine

When Simon's younger sister confesses to Lady Agony that she is running away to marry the love of her life, Bainbridge is enraged and committed to making sure his sister steers clear of scandal and ruin. When the man in question turns up dead after an opera performance, Amelia and Simon must work fast to clear Simon's name and bring Marielle peace.

I love this series! Winters does a great job of creating exciting mysteries that leave you guessing, but aren't too anxiety inducing. Just the way I like it. Amelia is a perfect heroine and Simon is a swoony love interest. I loved getting to see even more of him in this book and can't wait to see where Winters takes the story.

MURDER IN MASQUERADE by Mary Winters
The Second Lady of Letters Mystery

Concerned that his sister is encouraging the affections of a rogue and scoundrel Simon Bainbridge persuades Amelia, Lady Amesbury, to accompany him to the opera in order to keep an eye on Marielle. Upon meeting the man in question, Amelia finds him charming, although with an apparent eye for the ladies, and not just Marielle. Walking to their carriage after the performance Amelia stumbles upon a body, literally. George Davies has been stabbed to death! Amelia is keen to solve another murder as well as mend the rift between the siblings, but will she be successful?

Amelia is the most delightful protagonist. She's caring, funny, and oh so competitive! She and Lady Tabitha had me chuckling at their competitive nature and skill at various sports. I will never challenge these ladies at croquet! But the laughs, of which there are many, are only a part of this wonderful book and series.

I love how Amelia is coming to grips with her new found status. Now that her mourning period is over, she's able to rejoin society, learn to be a mum to a tween daughter, and perhaps pursue a new love. One of her favorite tasks, and mine, is her secret job as Lady Agony. I particularly love how the letters she receives mirror the action of the mystery and her life. I enjoy how a letter proceeds each chapter.

The mystery was exhilarating, as were the scrapes Amelia found herself in. Running into a tree? The twists and turns kept me enthralled and even when Amelia knew killer, I was sure it was someone else! And the romance. The teases and forays into something more. I can't wait to see where things lead!

The Lady of Letters is a historical mystery series and the female characters are bound by the societal rules of Victorian England. That being said, I love how almost all of the female characters push those boundaries of propriety. Even Lady Tabitha, the woman with a strict code to follow the demands of propriety has a willingness to bend at times.

In a series that has it all MURDER IN MASQUERADE brings the best of historical drama with witty repartee, fantastic characterization, and a thrilling mystery.

“Dear Lady Agony, I’m very much in love with a man my father will never consent to.”

And with those words, she’s off! Lady Agony, better known as Countess Amelia Amesbury is once again embroiled in murder and intrigue.

Widowed after the briefest of marriages, Amelia finds herself embroiled in London’s high society. Unused to the behavior of the ton, Amelia walks a fine line between using her newfound freedom as a wealthy woman in the Victorian era, and losing her status through her often scandalous actions, regardless of her late husband’s impeccable ancestors.

Hiding one of her many talents from prying eyes, she anonymously pens a Lady Agony column for a penny paper. In her 1860’s version of Dear Abby, Amelia dispenses advice to women of various stations. Using her upbringing as the daughter of an innkeeper and her current status as part of the elite, she blends common sense with her own style of decorum, guaranteed to help women whether they reside upstairs or down.

Her latest query comes from the sister of her dearest friend Simon Bainbridge. Lord Simon Bainbridge that is—a handsome, worldly ex-member of Her Majesty’s Royal Navy, who served with Amelia’s late husband and is now her truest confident. Or is there something more simmering underneath the surface of that, “broad forehead, slim nose, chiseled jawline” and eyes of emerald green?

A Lady of Letters MysteryCaught up in her growing feelings for Simon, Amelia is equally distraught at Simon’s fears for his sister Marielle’s well being because of her infatuation with a man well below her status. A man Simon contends is a scoundrel intent on Marielle’s fortune.

Not long after Simon and Amelia launch a plan to stop Marielle from ruining her life, they stumble over the very man himself, dead in an alley with a knife in his chest.

Marielle might now be safe from the rogue, but Simon is under police scrutiny with his very good reason for wanting the man dead. Even worse, his sister is furious at his interference, and half convinced that her brother really did kill the man she loved.

Determined to solve the mystery and repair the relationship between Simon and his sister, Amelia recruits characters from book one to assist her, characters that readers will love to see again.

On that note, while readers may want to start with Murder in Postscript, Murder in Masquerade can be read as a standalone. Readers be warned, however, you are guaranteed to fall in love with Amelia and her co-horts in Murder in Masquerade, so you will be scrambling to read book one in order to get back into the smart, witty, and engaging world that Mary Winters creates.

With a deep understanding of the complex society of Victorian England, Winters builds a web of engaging characters, delicious historical details, and just enough romance to satisfy any palate.

A fast-paced and captivating historical mystery that should be on every cozy reader’s list. Five stars!

This is the second historical mystery I’ve read recently that centers around a wealthy woman who writes an anonymous advice column for the newspaper and solves mysteries on the side. The similarities end there, so this fun premise still feels fresh! Mary Winters’ new mystery, Murder in Masquerade, puts advice columnist Amelia Amesbury at the center of a case after a deadly night at the theater.

This is the second book in the Lady of Letters series by Mary Winters, and places more emphasis on the characters and relationships than the first book. Readers can jump straight into this book, though if you read Murder in Postscript you might have more fun with the romance between Simon and Amelia that is blossoming in Murder in Masquerade.

Set in London in 1860, the story centers around Amelia Amesbury, who is a widowed countess (her husband died several years ago from a degenerative illness). Amelia also happens to have a secret side hustle writing an advice column under the name “Lady Agony” in a London newspaper. Each chapter features a letter and response from Lady Agony, which adds a fun element to the book.

Amelia’s friend (and love interest, perhaps?) Simon Bainbridge is upset when he learns his younger sister Marielle is planning to elope with a man that Simon and the rest of their family don’t approve of. Simon intercepts Marielle’s letter to Lady Agony (Amelia), but before either of them can decide what to do about it, the man in question is found murdered at the theater.

Simon and Amelia agree to investigate the murder and provide a distraught Marielle with closure. Amelia’s best friend Kitty is also a member of the investigative team. Suspects ranging the socioeconomic field from criminals to high society abound, and I will admit I didn’t guess the murderer and had a nice surprise at the reveal.

Amelia and Simon’s chemistry continues to heat up. Amelia is quite smitten with Simon and often comments on his appearance or his scent (like the ocean!). The attraction was more apparent in this book compared to the last, which added a fun romantic side plot to the mystery! The mystery itself was clever, and I enjoy the letters that start each chapter. The dialogue is full of witty banter—Amelia is quite funny as a character and she continues to be a delight throughout the book.

Thank you to Berkley Publishing for my copy. Opinions are my own.

I enjoyed the story and look forward to more. The mystery kept me guessing. I like the characters as well and the setting in England.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

"Murder in Masquerade" by Mary Winters is a delightful Victorian mystery that combines romance, intrigue, and a touch of humor to create a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Countess Amelia Amesbury's dual role as an advice columnist and amateur sleuth adds depth to her character, making her a charming and relatable protagonist. Winters skillfully weaves together the threads of romance and mystery, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

The setting of Victorian London is vividly brought to life, from the opulent ballrooms to the gritty streets, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama. The author's attention to detail adds authenticity to the story, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of the era.

The plot is well-paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers engaged. As Amelia delves deeper into the mystery surrounding Marielle's elopement and the murder at the theatre, she uncovers secrets that threaten to tear apart the Bainbridge family. Yet, Amelia's wit and resourcefulness shine as she navigates the complexities of the case, proving herself to be a capable and fearless investigator.

Overall, "Murder in Masquerade" is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of historical mysteries and cozy whodunits. Mary Winters delivers a charming tale filled with romance, suspense, and intrigue, making this a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating escape into the world of Victorian England.

Murder in Masquerade is a historical mystery about Amelia Amesbury, a young Victorian widow who has a secret sideline as an agony aunt with a newspaper column. Amelia works to help her friend (and possible romantic interest) Simon Bainbridge. Simon's younger sister has developed an interest in a suitor that the family doesn't approve of. After that suitor is killed, the mystery deepens, and Amelia decides to investigate.

I wanted to read this mystery because I enjoyed the first book in this series so much. I love the Victorian setting and really like Amelia as an amateur detective.

This book started a little slower for me but it soon picked up momentum and I eagerly read on, looking for a resolution to the mystery, but also enjoying Amelia and Simon's budding relationship.

The author does a wonderful job in this series with setting this scene and creating a cast of interesting, well developed characters.

I recommend Murder in Masquerade for fans of historical mysteries, cozy mysteries, the Victorian era, and smart, British manor house settings.

I have anxiously awaited reading Murder in Masquerade by Mary Winters since I finished the first book in the Lady of Letters Mystery series. Lady Amelia has the secret hobby of answering letters in a London Penny paper when she is not solving mysteries. Simon Bainbridge needs Lady Amelia’s help with his sister, Marielle, discouraging her choice of a suitor, and what to do when he ends up murdered. The two of them embark on a journey to solve who has murdered her recent beau before anything else gets hurt.

I was so thrilled to be back following Lady Amelia around Victorian London while she solves mysteries, continues to find her place in society, and becomes more acquainted with Simon. This novel has a wonderful mix of mystery, humor, and lovely banter. I found myself turning pages and guessing up to the end of the story.

I enjoyed how each chapter begins with Lady Amelia’s response to one of the letters she has received. I was laughing aloud at her pointed responses and looked forward to each new chapter.

This was a delightful read and I felt like I became better friends with all the characters. I am a big fan of Lady Amelia and am holding out hope that we may meet again. I highly recommend Murder in Masquerade by Mary Winters.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

I absolutely adored Murder in Masquerade by Mary Winters. It’s the second book in the Lady of Letters mystery series. Though you can read this on its own, I recommend reading Murder in Postscript first since you get so much background information in that one! It’s delightful too!

This Victorian cozy mystery stars Countess Amelia Amesbury AKA Lady Agony. Used to having lots to do at her family’s inn (in her life prior to becoming a countess), Amelia got really bored. Since her childhood friend is editor of a penny weekly, he gave her a “job” answering letters which she does under the name Lady Agony. I love Amelia! She is so witty in the pithy answers she gives to her readers. As you can imagine, most of her readers are women, but when she gives an answer to a letter written by two bachelors, the male readers are up in arms. I was laughing out loud during this part of the story.

Actually, there are many laugh out loud moments during Murder in Masquerade. Lady Tabitha, Kitty, Winifred, Bee, and Simon (swoon) give the book so much life. They’re just perfect characters for this book. Simon’s fiery sister Marielle plays a big part in the novel as much of the mystery surrounds her and her circle of friends and acquaintances. The mystery is well-plotted, and you’ll go through lots of twists and turns to get to the real culprit.

I highly recommend Murder in Masquerade for its wonderful characters, wittiness, romance, historical time period, and exciting mystery!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

An enjoyable second book in a historical mystery romance series that keeps me wanting more! Unlike the first book, which seemed more focused on the mystery and establishing character relationships, this one had a more slice-of-life vibe that I appreciated. We got to see even more of the friendships, the budding romance, the backstories...it all added more color to the series as a whole. While the murder mystery was a focal point, it was interesting how I wasn't as invested in that as I was in seeing Kitty overcome her in-law concerns and seeing Amelia tackle motherhood in a very relatable way. There were so many micro-journeys the reader enjoyed as they went along, and by the end, I was very sorry to see the book conclude. Thankfully, I have full confidence that the author intends to keep right on writing.

To focus first on the romance, I loved how absolutely thirsty Amelia was for Simon in this book. We got a hint of it in the first book, but it was a very small part and just gave us a tiny taste. In this book, Amelia was clearly attracted to Simon in a more obvious and visceral way. She made several comments about his appearance, how she felt when she was around him, and at one point, she realized how strong he was and I could practically see her panting through the pages. I realize it's not the type of series where bones get jumped but...I hope she gets some soon...she has it bad. We see a little bit of Simon pining, but since it's single POV, we don't know for sure exactly how bad he has it for Amelia. There's definitely attraction and genuine affection, and I can absolutely see it continuing to be explored in subsequent books. Aside from their romance, the mystery was interesting to me. The victim wasn't a particularly likable fellow, and he seemed to be using Simon's sister for his own gain, so it wasn't a huge loss when he met his untimely end. Perhaps that why it didn't capture my attention as much. For me, it was almost like, hey look, someone died. That's sad. Now back to the romance! I was much more interested in other things. Thought I will say I didn't have the villain pegged at all, and that's always a mark of a good mystery to me. I like not knowing and the suspense of it all.

I absolutely adored the first book in this series! I loved the idea of an advice column as a catalyst for a murder investigation (which is how the first book starts!) and while I didn’t think I would like reading the advice columns at the beginning of each chapter—it grew on my and now I love it! A cozy mystery with some romance was just what I needed going into the long winter months. I started this book in early January and was done with it in a matter of days and naturally I am anxious for the next book in the series to come out and sadly I am going to have to wait another year I bet!

I know the reading market is somewhat saturated with historical cozy mysteries/romances, but for me this one stood out for the advice column as a way to get readers ‘in the door’ as it were—it had a little overtones of Bridgerton with the advice column—but readers will stay for the charming characters and mystery! That’s how this series got me, I liked the idea of the story, but fell in love with Amelia and Simon and now I have a new favorite series on my list!

While this is only the second book in this series, I hope that it will be a long running one! This one can be read as a standalone, but there are some elements that readers won’t fully appreciate unless they read it in order. Since this is only book two you obviously don’t have to go back and read a ton of books. So if you are new to the series, sure read this one but also go back and read the first book. You wont’ regret it!

Summary

Extra, extra, read all about it! Countess turned advice columnist Amelia Amesbury finds herself playing the role of sleuth when a night at the theatre turns deadly.

Victorian Countess Amelia Amesbury’s secret hobby, writing an advice column for a London penny paper, has gotten her into hot water before. After all, Amelia will do whatever it takes to help a reader in need. But now, handsome marquis Simon Bainbridge desperately requires her assistance. His beloved younger sister, Marielle, has written Amelia’s Lady Agony column seeking advice on her plans to elope with a man her family does not approve of. Determined to save his sister from a scoundrel and the family from scandal, Simon asks Amelia to dissuade Marielle from the ill-advised gambit.

But when the scoundrel makes an untimely exit after a performance of Verdi’s Rigoletto, Amelia realizes there’s much more at stake than saving a young woman’s reputation from ruin. It’s going to take more than her letter-writing skills to help the dashing marquis, mend the familial bond, and find the murderer. Luckily, solving problems is her specialty! (summary from Goodreads)

Review

I really love Amelia’s character. She is independent but not foolishly independent, she is plucky, and knows her own mind. I feel like she is older than she actually is and I love that she is basically a mother to her step daughter. It gives Amelia this maturity that I don’t always see in characters of this genre. Often the main characters feel overly stubborn and impetuous where as Amelia is stubborn in an understated and mature way so I really like that about her and this story. It makes it feel more about the mystery and less about Amelia trying to find out who she really is and where she fits in. In some ways she has already found her identity as a Countess, mother, and wife but having bene widowed early on in her marriage, she isn’t fully a ‘woman of the world’ though either. It makes for a compelling character that I just love seeing evolve.

For Simon, I love that he doesn’t try and change who Amelia is. He is protective sure, but he isn’t so overbearing that he becomes off putting. Sometimes I read these male love interests and I’m like ya sure I get it they want to protect their woman, but also like damn just let her do her thing and stop being in the way. In the books so far we see Simon being supportive and not stifling which I am really enjoying. The mystery in this book is also exciting and I think that there might be some cross over of characters in this book to future books. I have a feeling we haven’t heard the last from some of the supporting villains.

The wait for the next book is going to be tedious! While everything wrapped up nicely in this book, I can sense what the next book is going to focus on and I am eagerly awaiting for things to pick up between Simon and Amelia romantically. I enjoy a slow burn with the best of them but it’s clear what Simon’s intentions are toward Amelia and that she reciprocates, and this book certainly made sure we knew that. But I am ready for some stolen kisses and embraces for sure! This has been one of my favorite new historical mysteries to date and I cannot wait for more mysteries from our favorite advice columnist!