I adored the first book of this new series, but this continuation fell far short of my expectations, unfortunately. While the concept of Violet infiltrating a cult and clearing a murder all while trying not to give away that she wasn't serious in her exploration of the cult's religion was interesting, the execution itself was lacking, in my opinion. It's become such a boring trope in historical fiction to make fun of society's rules on modesty in times past, and this book just took it to the extreme--orgies and nakedness being discussed over and over again and every character having the same blushing yet thrilling reaction to it. I had to roll my eyes.
The mystery itself fell flat as well, as I knew immediately who the murderer was as soon as they stepped onto the page. While I didn't necessarily guess the murderer's motive, it annoyed me that no one else considered the person as a suspect until the very end as they were obvious, to me, as the murderer.
After this book, I don't know that I'd continue the series, which is really disappointing to me as I so loved the first one.

This was a great follow up to Of Manners and Murder. Although Violet still felt like the main character to me, her half-sister has stepped up a little since the last book. Sephora is still young, flighty, and overdramatic, but she takes initiative in the investigation and even manages to find some respect for multiple characters she previously dismissed out of hand. It was good to see that personal growth. I’m hoping to see more of her and a certain constable. Violet is her same, independent self. She takes it upon herself to come to the aide of others in distress on more than one occasion. Most notably by attacking a would-be kidnapper with an umbrella. Readers also gets a glimpse of Bunty’s past and I’m dying to learn more!

The mystery itself was interesting. I don’t think I’ve read a cozy mystery set in a cult before. I’ve read ones where characters go up against secret societies, but that’s not the same as pretending to join a cultish commune. It was intriguing to see the day-to-day life of the group and the strategies they used to attract and keep members.

"Of Hoaxes and Homicide" by Anastasia Hastings is a delightful addition to the Dear Miss Hermione mystery series. This second installment continues to captivate readers with its charming characters, engaging plot, and the perfect blend of humor and mystery.

The story revolves around the sensible Violet Manville and her ladylike half-sister Sephora, who find themselves yearning for the excitement of detective work. When Violet receives a letter from a heartbroken mother, seeking Miss Hermione's advice about her daughter's involvement in a mysterious cult, the plot takes an intriguing turn. The daughter, Margaret, has become entangled with the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed, a group rumored to be involved in dark rituals and human sacrifices.

As Miss Hermione's investigation collides with real-life events, the narrative gains momentum. The stakes are raised when Violet discovers that Margaret is not just any runaway but Sephora's dearest friend. The journey takes the trio, including their trusty housekeeper Bunty, to the Children's compound in Nottintham, where they encounter not only the enigmatic Count Orlando's influence but also a poisoned member of the cult.

Hastings masterfully weaves together the elements of mystery, intrigue, and humor, keeping the readers hooked from start to finish. The characters are well-drawn and endearing, each contributing to the story's charm. The dynamic between Violet and Sephora adds depth to the narrative, and the witty banter between them is a highlight.

The setting of the Hermetic Order and the ruined Alburn Abbey creates a captivating backdrop for the unfolding events. The author's vivid descriptions bring the world to life, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story.

While the mystery at the heart of the novel keeps the pages turning, it's the well-crafted characters and their relationships that make "Of Hoaxes and Homicide" truly shine. Anastasia Hastings has crafted a cozy mystery that strikes the right balance between intrigue and lightheartedness, making it a highly enjoyable read for fans of the genre.

Sometimes a person wants an historical mystery that they can sink into and be entertained by for a few hours. This book and series will appeal to anybody who is looking for that kind of read.

Those who pick this one up will enjoy meeting the detecting two half sisters. They are quite different but complement one another.

Anyone who has read an advice column will also enjoy knowing that Dear Miss Hermione is an important feature of the plot. When a mother writes to Miss H regarding a cult and her child, things are off and running. When there is a poisoning, the plot intensifies. Keep an eye out for Eli Marsh and housekeeper Bunty as the sisters detect.

I recommend this novel. It has twists, humor, heart and good characters.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur books for this title. All opinions are my own.

Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this title. All opinions are mine and freely given. This is the second book in the Mids Hermione series and the first I have read.

After receiving a Dear Miss Hermione letter from a mother concerned that her daughter has joined The Children of Aed, Violet Manville, bored after the thrilling adventures of thsi first novel, sets out to investigate. There are rumors of orgies, human sacrifices, and mysticism. Violet is shocked when her investigations reveal the wayward daughter is her sister Sophora's best friend, Margaret. Her plan to get Margaret to leave the cult is stymied after another Child of Aed is murdered with Margaret standing accused.

What gives this book its heart is the relationship between Violet and Sophora. The book is told from their alternating perspectives, which makes for great humor and heart. The mystery is engaging, though I figured out who the culprit was midway through the novel, just not the motive. Violet and Sophora are very different women and their actions both move the story forward. Their housekeeper, Bunty, is a delight, and I want to know more about her.

All in all, I liked this one. The story, the characters, the setting, the writing style were well done. I liked getting the internal workings of Violet and Sophora through their internal monologue. I'll definitely go back and read the first in this series.

Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second book in the Dear Miss Hermoine Mystery series by Anastasia Hastings. I really enjoyed the first book, in spite of not being able to stand one of the main characters. I started out detesting the same character this time around, but I was pleased once the story really got rolling along and the girl began to become much more likable. The first one was fun, but I enjoyed this one even more!

Violet Manville (a smart and sensible woman) and her younger half-sister Shephora (not quite sensible but very ladylike, down to her perfect dresses and simpering) have become quite bored after their first bout of playing detective ended. Violet, who has inherited the role as an "Agony Aunt" known as Miss Hermione from her traveling aunt, receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother", and she thinks maybe things are picking up. The woman's daughter has gotten caught up in a cult by the name of the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. There are dark rumors of human sacrifices, orgies and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray. The public has gotten very interested in this cult, especially since stories about it have been written by the mysterious Count Orlando. Clearly the heartbroken mother's child has been pulled into the cult. Violet begins to investigate, but the case hits very close to home when she discovers that Sephora's best friend Margaret is the daughter in question! Violet heads to the Children's compound in Nottintham to convince her to return home, but things don't go smoothly. Eli Marsh, the handsome American who was involved in Violet's first case, is there for reasons of his own, and then a member of the Children is murdered. Soon Violet, Sephora, their trusty housekeeper Bunty and Eli find much more than they bargained for!

Violet was even more likable this go-round and I really liked her to begin with. She's gotten into her role of Miss Hermione, and it's always fun to hear her replies to the people looking for advice. She doesn't sugar-coat them, and I get a kick out of her bluntness. Violet gets annoyed at the drama by Sephora, but now she's really rankled: people keep giving credit to Sephora for the success of her first investigation! Sephora isn't exactly known for her brain, and it gets under Violet's skin. I was glad to see Eli return for this second outing, as I've got a crush on him. Violet is really attracted to the man - and it appears the feeling is mutual - but he frustrates Violet to no end. She doesn't expect to run into him at the beginning of this investigation, nor does she expect him to return near the end of it. I was quite happy to see some progression in their romance. Housekeeper Bunty is very trusted by the family; she's like the girls' mother hen. We also find out a bit of Bunty's background, and it's quite intriguing! I am really anticipating finding out more about her. The biggest development in character was Sephora, however. She started out just as annoying as she was in the first book, and I quickly grew tired of her. However, things changed when she realized her dearest friend Margaret was in trouble; she was determined to help, and even though she still seemed flightly, apparently Sephora has some moxie! She was scared, but threw herself into the investigation, first filling in as an assistant in a show with a magician to get some information, then showing up at the Children's compound to give the information she obtained to Violet. Yes, definite growth in Sephora's character! The mystery here was quite compelling; nothing was as it seemed. I was kept guessing until the murderer was revealed, as there were a number of red herrings. I'm looking forward to Violet's next investigation...perhaps in Venice?

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Of Hoaxes and Homicides started off very slow but then picked up in pace around 1/3 of the way into the book. It is book 2 in the series and while I was able to read it as a standalone, I feel that you would be better off reading the first book prior to this one. I feel that it would give you a better understanding of the characters and a deeper connection to them.
With that being said, I really enjoyed the story. It had lots of twists and the ending managed to surprise me. The setting was interesting and the characters are all such lively personalities that they were very entertaining. There is lots of humor and lots of drama. If you like Bridgerton and Murder She Wrote, you will enjoy this book!

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The second in this series has Violet infiltrating the suspicious Children of Aed group when she realized Sephora's friend Margaret is a member. At first, all she wants to do is talk to Margaret, but soon a member of the group is murdered and Margaret is the prime suspect. Of course, Violet can't let that stand, so she investigates while undercover.

I'm drawn to books that involve cults or brainwashing and I suspected this group was just that. Violet was the most suspicious undercover agent of all time. She didn't do a great job of hiding her movements. I did enjoy the case. I loved learning even a little more about Bunty and her background. I also like the slow development of Violet and Eli's relationship. I'm excited to see where this series goes!

It is 1885 in London and Violet is still writing the Dear Miss Hermione column. Most of the letters are mundane, offering no challenge and leaving her a bit bored but when she receives a letter from a distraught mother about her daughter who has run off to join a cult, the Children of Aed. Violet’s interest is piqued. And when she learns the runaway is her flighty half-sister, Sephora’s best friend, Margaret, she is determined to bring the girl home. While she leaves town to follow the cult, she asks their housekeeper, Bunty to do some investigating in London while keeping Sephora out of it. Unfortunately, Sephora is not so easily distracted and soon she too is involved. But when a murder occurs, it is only a matter of time before the sisters find themselves knee deep in danger.

Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second historical cozy mystery by Anastasia Hastings and it is an entertaining mystery with an interesting plot, likeable characters and with a nice touch of humour as well as a bit of romance. The story is split between Violet and Sephora, each with their own distinct voice. I did guess who dunnit pretty quickly but, despite this, the plot kept my interest throughout, so much so that I finished it in one day. I have thoroughly enjoyed both books in this series and look forward to the next entry in the series.

Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review

As an Agony Aunt, Violet Manville receives letters asking for help for everything from table settings to relationships. A request that catches her eye is from a mother whose daughter has joined a cult, the Children of Aed. It has been the subject of a series of sensational books written by Count Orlando that detail sacrifices and orgies. The cult’s leader, the Master, is holding a gathering in London and Violet decides to attend. Sephora, her sister, has been bored since her best friend Margaret left for an extended visit with relatives so she decides to accompany her. When Violet recognizes a cult member as Margaret, she realizes who the letter was from. After foiling a kidnap attempt of one of the cult members, Violet is invited to visit the group to observe their compound and consider joining them. During her visit, one of the members is murdered and Margaret is set up as the murderer. Violet knows she is incapable of murder and can not leave until she proves her innocence.

Violet is an intelligent and strong character while Sephora is more concerned with the latest fashions and Orlando’s sensational stories. As she departs for her visit, she leaves Sephora in the care of their housekeeper Bunty. When she needs Bunty’s assistance to look into the victim’s background Sephora steps up and shows how resourceful she can be. She is surprised to learn that their older housekeeper can pick locks and is familiar with some unsavory characters. In a past investigation, Violet worked with Eli Marsh, an American who is in demand for his special skills. He has been hired to return one of he cult members to her family and it was Eli who was responsible for he kidnapping attempt in London. Now he has appeared at the compound to help Violet with her investigation. Sephora has also arrived with information on the victim as well as the Master and his assistant that puts them all in danger. This is an entertaining mystery with humor, a number of suspects, unexpected twists and a touch of romance that is sure to please. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur for providing this book for my review.

This sequel to Of Manners and Murder takes the characters away from the typical drawing-room murder to one of cultish intrigue. While it is easy to guess who the culprit is, the clues as to how and why are fun to figure out as the story progresses. The book is heavy on the mystery and light on the romance--though the romance is definitely there.

My favorite part of the book was the development of Sephora's character, hinted at in the first novel. By the end of this one, I was more invested in her story arc and character than Violet's! Starting out as a more vapid girl who buys into all societal norms for women without thinking for herself to a more self-assured, well-rounded woman was gratifying to read. She feels like a Victorian Elle Woods.

Pick it up if you are looking for a historical mystery that gives you enough originality to be compelling but enough of the stable genre tropes to satisfy that cozy craving. I look forward to the next installment of the series!

Thank you Netgalley and Minotaur Books for my e-arc! All opinions are my own.

Several months after solving a murder, Violet is bored. While reading mind-numbing letters sent her as the Agony Aunt Miss Hermione, there is one from a distraught by mother. Her daughter is caught in a cult knownFor wantonness and human sacrifice. Intrigued, Violet sets out to learn more and enters the compound as a Seeker. With a murder, and a young woman arrested , Violet is soon on the trail of a killer.

This second Miss Hermione continues the charm of the first and can easily stand alone. The differences between half-sisters are fun and I enjoy Violets acerbic answers to letters. Hints of Bunty’s past are intriguing and it was fun following the clues as the mystery evolved. I also appreciated details of life in Victorian times such as the introduction of typewriters and parts of a field desk. I bounced between the digital text and audio versions of the story and narrator Hutchinson-Shaw’s varied accents added to the pleasure. This is a great cozy historical series with a strong female lead. Recommended.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this story. All opinions expressed are my own.

Thank you NetGalley and St.Martin's Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Of Hoaxes and Homicide was my introduction to this series, not having read the first book. It was fairly easy to jump right in, as it is well written. I usually read cozy mysteries taking place in modern days, but Hoaxes and Homicide was a nice change, as it is set in 1885. The storyline was interesting, and the main characters keep the story moving along. It is a nice cozy mystery, perfect for relaxing after having a busy day.

I enjoyed this one so much more than the first one; Violet is just as likeable as in the first and Sephora is better. I am always fascinated by cults so this mystery pulled me in from the start and had me intrigued the whole way through. I enjoyed investigating with Violet and discovering the secrets hidden by the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. I look forward to the next one and seeing how Violet’s relationship progresses.

Dear Fellow Reader,

It is the end of January already. While January can be dreary where I live (and it was) there is the hint of light at 5 p.m. which we haven’t seen for a while. There is hope. There must be, I have even been thinking about the garden, and by the end of the season, I never think I will want to think of it again.

This week I have a (not too much of a surprise) brand new cozy mystery for you. This is the second in the series of Dear Miss Hermione mysteries. No, I have not read the first one, Of Manners and Murder. While I would always encourage you to start at the beginning, I didn’t have any trouble reading this second book without having read the first. I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.


Of Hoaxes and Homicide takes place in about 1885 and is the story of Violet Manville and her half-sister Sephora. Violet is the commonsense sister while Sephora cares about society and clothes and being a lady. Both women live in a house owned by their aunt, Adelia, who has left town with her latest lover. One of the secrets that she left behind with Violet is that Aunt Adelia was London’s very popular Agony Aunt, Miss Hermoine. Violet is now Miss Hermoine. She fills this role with the help of Bunty, the housekeeper. (She has a secret room where she works and everything.)

Sephora is bored and Violet is a bit restless also. They had been involved in a murder mystery and it was quite exciting. It was hard to go back to their regular lives. Violet is hiding it but is especially on edge because of the mysterious Eli Marsh, whom she met when investigating the murder. He may have captured a bit of her heart. Sephora is especially missing her best friend, who is off visiting relatives.

Or is she?

Miss Hermoine receives a letter asking for her help and Violet connects the letter to Sephora’s friend. It seems the friend has been caught up in a cult, the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. The stories about the cult have been made infamous by the mysterious Count Orlando.

Was the cult really having orgies?

Were there ritualistic sacrifices?

Violet decides to go to the Cult to see what it is all about and while she is there, a man is murdered. Who did it? Can she find the missing girl and return her to her family? Will the mysterious Eli March arrive? Sephora comes into her own in the story and surprises Violet in the best way.

I found it to be a very pleasant story. I liked the writing. The style reminded me a bit of the Enola Holmes stories in that Violet occasionally has an aside with the reader when she is frustrated about something. This book is available now so you can buy it or try your local library. (I just checked and my library system has 4 copies.)

On to something different…

I won’t be writing a full review (because you can read about 100 of them if you try) I would highly recommend The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. I just finished it, and I LOVED it. I am in awe of the mind that can come up with such interesting characters and plot. Hats off to Mr. McBride!

And because we are on the eve of it, Happy Library Lovers Month! Go forth and tell those librarians how much you appreciate what they do! In some ways, they are the Guardians of our Galaxy.

I think I enjoyed this book even more than the first! What’s not to love about cults, orgies and sacrifices!!??

Violet is coming down from her high of solving a murder last summer. She is still acting as Miss Hermione, the advice columnist. When a letter comes in from a concerned parent, afraid of her daughters fate, Violet heads off to join the cult and find missing woman, who just happens to be her sister, Sephora’s best friend.

I love Violets sassy, push the limits attitude as well as her intuitive nature. I am hoping for another in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I did not realize the book was the second in this historical mystery series and I am convinced I will go back to read the first one.
The story was a delight to read and even with all the twists and turns I did manage to name the major villain. That did not reduce the pleasure in reading it. Living in the Victorian’s time with its particularities get you to understand Sephora brought up in a wealthy class with all the expectations associated with it. On the other hand, she does not act much differently than a spoiled 16 year in current times.
Practical Violet, the older half-sister, having a bigger world experience is a big contrast to her younger sibling.
Reading this story will occasionally bring a smile to your face. I am sure you will read this book at a fast pace because you are going to want to know how it is going to end. Enjoy.

When Violet receives a letter from a worried mother, she and the gang find themselves looking in to a mysterious cult. With rumors of human sacrifices, and the link to one of her own acquaintances, she may have bitten off more than she can chew this time.

This book quickly climbed to the top of my favorite series with just this book. I cannot wait to read the previous and first entry in this series. I cannot wait for more in this series.

A fun, historical cozy mystery is right up my alley. Missed the first in the Miss Hermione series, but this second one was easy to follow without having the read it.

Description:
"Dear Miss Hermione—what is a mother to do?"

Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. And though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.

So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public conscious, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.

Miss Hermione's investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers that the runaway daughter in question is Sephora's dearest friend Margaret. Violet sets off to the Children's compound in Nottintham to convince her to return to London. But with the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh running around and a member of the Children found poisoned to death, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.

My Thoughts:
The setting is a London of 1885 and I found the language and descriptions in the book fit the time period. I liked the concept of the 'Dear Miss Hermione' letters. I found the main character, Violet, to be a curious and indepenent woman who really liked being involved in an investigation and is determined to find answers. Her sister, Sephora, I think showed more backbone that Violet expected - you have to give her credit. There were red herrings to chase which made the investigation more interesting. Recommended for anyone who likes a period mystery.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.

It’s been a few months since we last checked in on half-sisters Violet and Sephora Manville, and they are finding themselves a bit bored after the excitement of solving their first murder. That changes when Violet’s alter ego, advice columnist Miss Hermione, receives a letter from a distraught mother whose daughter has run off and joined a cult. When Violet starts to investigate, she realizes that she knows someone in the group. Violet goes undercover in the cult right before a murder happens. Can she figure out what is going on?

I enjoyed the first, and this was another good entry. We get the story most from Violet’s first-person point of view, but we occasionally transfer to Sephora’s. These breaks are always obvious, and they are also used to good effect to advance the story. The plot could have used a bit more, but there are still some good twists, and I was engaged the entire time. Part of that is because of the characters, who I enjoyed. I also liked seeing both Violet and Sephora not only grow, but grow their relationship as well. If you are looking for a fun historical mystery, you’ll be glad you picked this one up.