4.75 stars.

What a stunning cover! Plus the premise grabbed my attention, so I gave this historical mystery, a #18 in a series, a try.
I haven’t read any other book in this series and I didn’t feel lost at all. It’s really a standalone.
I loved the writing, and the plot was so enticing I read the entire novel in one day! It didn’t happen for so long that I just had to give it 5 stars!
If you like mystery, history, a whodunnit with a couple-sleuth, I highly recommend this one!

Thank you, Netgalley and Tasha Alexander, for the eARC.

This book was just not for me. I went into this hoping for a true historical fiction but it just didn’t feel that way. I ended up DNF’ing after the first chapter because I just could not get into it. I don’t think that this is a reflection of the writing or anything actually negative about the book. It’s just not my usual genre and I was not the target audience.

Once Cécile du Lac invites you into her charmed circle you will forever be in her orbit. And you will adore every minute of it. Cécile and the Baroness Ursula von Düchtel have been fast friends since they commiserated over losing an auction for an early Manet that went to someone nowhere near worthy. Ursula's art collection is eclectic, to say the least, with her collection encompassing objects from across the centuries, with Renaissance art sharing space with Gustav Klimt. For years she has been dreaming of building a house worthy of her collection and the Villa von Düchtel situated in the Bavarian Alps with the barest glimpse of Schloss Neuschwanstein in the distance is finally ready for guests. A striking modern villa of mosaic glass and concrete with a long wide gallery for her collection. For the occasion Ursula has invited friends, neighbors, artists, art dealers, journalists, critics, and poets. Sadly the family also showed up. Cécile, knowing that Lady Emily would never forgive her if she didn't extend her an invitation to see Ursula's ancient art has arrived with Emily and of course Colin in tow. It always pays to make sure one is surrounded by attractive men. At the gathering Emily wonders if it's beyond the pale to contemplate murdering a house guest who is boorish and a lout just so she can go talk to the intelligentsia. Yes, she does know it's morally wrong, but whomever made up the rules had clearly never met Kaspar Allerspach, Ursula's odious son-in-law. Ursula regrets every day that her daughter Sigrid married Kasper and not the delightful Max Haller who is a virtuoso on the tuba. Max has also been invited, because one never knows. In fact once the reception is over they will be a reduced house party indeed, made up of just family and a few hangers-on. Kaspar has brought his best friend Felix Brinkmann and socialite Birgit Göltling who may or may not be involved with Felix. But Liesel Fronberg is the most out of place, being an art dealer from Berlin, and being more servant than guest. So while Cécile was hopeful of an intellectual gathering, the likes of which Ursula is known for, it's a gathering brought low by the uncouth Kasper and company. Though the reception has one more surprise in store before the masses depart, Kaspar is approached by one of the journalists in attendance and is informed that they were told to come to the Villa von Düchtel for the wake of Kaspar Allerspach. At first Kaspar is taken aback, but then he decides it must be nothing more than a joke. The first attempt on his life happens when they are all out skiing, Lady Emily failing spectacularly at it. The second attempt is when they are visiting Schloss Neuschwanstein. Someone takes a pot-shot at him. As the winter weather worsens, Emily and Colin realize that the escalation of events is quite concerning. They are virtually trapped in the Bavarian Alps so the culprit who wants to put the wind up Kaspar must be one of their party. Things take a deadly turn when out on a sleigh ride with his wife Sigrid is murdered, not Kaspar, the killer apparently missing their mark. But was Kaspar the intended victim? The campaign of terror would indicate as such, but what if it was all a ruse? What if there's something more at play? To solve this mystery Emily will have to look to the past, to a King who was either insane or eccentric, who was either murdered or died by his own hands, and who had a love of German legends and Wagner and built Schloss Neuschwanstein while bankrupting Bavaria.

Each and every installment in Tasha Alexander's beloved series makes me fall more in love with the characters and with Tasha's writing. There's just such a wonderful balance of mystery, art, culture, and history. Here we lean a little more into the art and culture, but I think that is perfectly wonderful for a story set in the land of fairy tale castles. Also, for the mystery lovers among us, I think this is Tasha's most Agatha Christie book yet. All mysteries owe a lot to Agatha Christie. Even if a story is just using the same basic building blocks that many people have, if Agatha did it, Agatha is the one who gets credit. I can't help but think of a book I loved, Sofia Slater's Auld Acquaintance, which was lambasted by critics because it was a fun retelling of And Then There Were None. They might have omitted the "fun" part. So walking the "Agatha Christie" edge is a delicate balance. Too much and you're ripping her off, too little, and obviously she would have done it better. So there's no avoiding Agatha Christie when talking mystery, and while some might point to Lady Emily's trip down the Nile in 2022 as her most Christie mystery, personally I think Secrets of the Nile was way more Amelia Peabody. But to each there own. The point of all this is that Death by Misadventure is just deliciously Agatha Christie enough to draw the reader in; oh, a beautiful house in the Bavarian Alps you say? And trapped by snow with these reprobates? Oh, intriguing. And then it's all a wonderful locked room mystery after that. In fact I also have to thank Tasha for this book because it was part of three books I read back-to-back that finally pulled me out of a serious reading slump. It was so horrifically bad I was choosing to play FarmVille or sleep over reading. And if you want to avoid a similar fate, never ever ever read Scattered All Over the Earth by Yōko Tawada. OK back to happy thoughts! Bavaria! OK, here's the thing about me and history. If it's US history, I know it, if it's British history, I know it, if it's French history, I'm OK, but anything else to do with Europe prior to WWI, well, it wasn't taught to me in school and I didn't take any extra classes once in college so I'm very vague with it. I know Germany wasn't a united country until sometime around WWI because of the saying how every time Germany united we got a World War. So I'm going in basically blind, though I did just watch a seventies miniseries, Fall of Eagles, which was decent on the German history and the Habsburgs and Hohenzollerns, but I literally just watched that so when I read this I was totally in the dark. I just knew they had pretty fairy tale castles, not that the fairy tale castles had this amazing backstory of King Ludwig II bankrupting the country to build them and his fascination with Wagner and how he "killed" himself and how this was all happening just as Bavaria was about to become a part of Germany. Damn. Bavaria, you are one fascinating country. I need to learn more about you and your "mad" king who really is responsible for how much tourism you now have. Thanks to Tasha, I have a starting off point. Because that's what great books make you do, want to learn more, read more, see more. They expand your worldview and Tasha excels at this.

I've read all of the prior titles by this author including all of the Lady Emily books and novellas. The dual timeline found in recent books does not resonate for me with this series. The stories also feel increasingly formulaic and surface level. I'd love to see the author channel her energy in a new direction.

Loved this one! I loved the previous book in this series and I enjoyed this one just as much! This was such a great read to get into the spooky season with elements of winter sprinkled in! Definitely recommend reading this book!

Synopsis:
In the winter of 1906, Lady Emily and husband Colin are invited to the opulent home of Baroness Ursula von Duchtel in the Bavarian alps. Outside is a mountainous winter wonderland with a view of Mad King Ludwig's fairy tale castle. Inside, the villa hosts a magnificent but eclectic art collection--as well as an equally eclectic collection of fellow guests, among them a musician, an art dealer, a coquette from the demi-monde, and Kaspar, the Baroness' boorish son-in-law, whom, it begins to appear, someone wants dead.

Thoughts:
Although this book is a part of a long series, it can be easily read as a standalone! This book isn’t what I normally read. But I enjoyed the mystery!

I enjoyed this book so much. It was filled with interesting characters that were trapped in rough climate. The characters, Emily and Colin, are an interesting couple, and I enjoyed watching them work together through everything. I love the way the author intertwined the fiction with some historical aspects. I also enjoyed the ending. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I would recommend it to others.

Thank you Net Galley ARC

I enjoyed this book lady Emily and her husband Colin are guests and at this Bavarian manor where there seems to be an attack on one of the guests. The time line goes from present to the past of the history of of this manor and does it all connect to present day?

This is the first book in the series I have read and it can be read as a stand alone although more details would be available by reading the whole series. This book's story takes place in Bavaria, which holds a special place in my heart. Having been stationed in Bavaria, this story also features King Ludwig and the famous castle "The Neushwanstein" (aka the Cinderella Castle). Bavaria 1906 at the Villa Von Duchtel, owned by Ursula, a collector of art. Many guests are staying at the villa, including Lady Emily, Colin, Kasper, Ursula's son-in-law, and her daughter Sigrid. She is found murdered and Kasper is the prime suspect(whom many people don't like). Heavy snow and being Isolated from society. Lady Emily and Colin go in search of clues, and question suspects to catch the killer. In 1866 Bavia (Neushwanstein castle) the Story is about the relationship between King Ludwig and Niels. This is an enjoyable and cleverly constructed novel that provides a glimpse at the history of a castle as well as the historical aspects. tension high throughout, with enough red herrings and twists to keep readers guessing until the very end. As Lady Emily delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of deceit and intrigue that goes far beyond what she initially anticipated. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher.

I usually find the Lady Emily novels a bit slow to get into - the dual timelines is always a bit jarring to me - and then I am captivated as I try to figure out how the historical plotline will be relevant to Lady Emily's story. I read this book as the seasons began to change and I anticipated winter, and th snowy Bavarian setting was very atmospheric. I found myself Googling Bavarian history after finishing the novel to understand the setting better. Looking forward to the next novel in the series!

I want to thank NetGalley for allowing me to review this book. As always Tasha Alexander never disappoints. I love how Lady Emily and Colin solve crimes around the world.
This book's story takes place in Bavaria, which holds a special place in my heart. Having been stationed in Bavaria, this story also features King Ludwig and the famous castle "The Neushwanstein" (aka the Cinderella Castle), which I have visited.
Bavaria 1906 at the Villa Von Duchtel, owned by Ursula, a collector of art. Many guests are staying at the villa, including Lady Emily, Colin, Kasper, Ursula's son-in-law, and her daughter Sigrid.
Sigrid is found murdered and Kasper is the prime suspect(whom many people don't like)
Heavy snow and being Isolated from society. Lady Emily and Colin go in search of clues, and question suspects to catch the killer.
In 1866 Bavia (Neushwanstein castle) the Story is about the relationship between King Ludwig and Niels.
A great book to read on a cold winter's night. It kept my interest. A page-turner.

November was a nostalgic reading month for me and I found myself returning to several loved but recently forgotten series. I lived in Bavaria at one time so this mad this book extra appealing.

I love a dual timeline and these were especially well done. While it was wonderful to catch up with Lady Emily and Colin, I equally enjoyed the storyline set in the past with King Ludwig. The mystery was interesting and also a bit darker than this usually more lightly toned series and I didn’t mind that at all. The ending was a bit heartbreaking and more poignant than I expected, and that made this read all the better. Overall this book was perfect for my nostalgic November- I became reacquainted with beloved characters and got to virtually revisit one of my favorite places on earth. Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur books for this arc.

In 1906, Lady Emily and her husband Colin are invited to a lavish Bavarian villa near King Ludwig's famed castle, where a series of suspicious accidents befall Kaspar, the baroness’s son-in-law. As Emily investigates, she uncovers buried secrets among an eclectic group of guests, including a musician, an art dealer, and a coquette. Meanwhile, memories of King Ludwig’s past friendship with Niels, a young noble, cast a haunting shadow over the villa, and Emily must unravel these long-hidden connections to unmask the killer.

It’s amazing how far Lady Emily has come since book one. She’s grown in her understanding of history and appears to have become more confident in social environments. This book is a bit of a closed room murder mystery. With a snowstorm in force, the murderer is in the house and it is a matter of finding them.

The opposing narrative, set in the past, was very dull. None of it was interesting, and I didn’t really see a strong connection to the murder. It could have been left out entirely, and nothing would have been affected.

Overall, it was an interesting read. I guessed the culprit early on, but not the reason behind the murder.

Fans of the series will no doubt enjoy this one.

A great addition to the series and it doesn’t disappoint. The writing is rich in historical detail and I loved the mystery. Lady Emily has to delve into old secrets to find the murderer snd there are plenty of suspects. A great read.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

In Tasha Alexander’s “Death by Misadventure,” Lady Emily and husband Colin Hargreaves travel to the Bavarian alps at the request of their friend, Cecile. Bungling attempts on the life of one of the guests, the unpleasant son-in-law of their hostess, set Emily and Colin to investigating the incidents. Soon another guest is seemingly a victim. Then the killer is successful. A massive snow storm prevents officials from taking charge of the situation, so our duo races to find the culprit before they can strike again.

This is the 18th book in the Lady Emily series and is just as enjoyable as the previous volumes. The characters are so well-drawn so that the reader does not have to wrack her brain on how the character fits into the story after a year-long break in the series. I loved the moody atmosphere of this story as the cast is isolated in a brand new manor house in a snowstorm. The characteristic dual timeline story fits in nicely with the mystery.

This book is great for readers who enjoy historical mysteries. While this story could be read as a stand alone, it is much better if you know the characters from the previous stories.

I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was a great British mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed it and quickly became engrossed in Lady Emily's life in 1906. As I listened, I could easily picture the setting. Tasha Alexander expertly weaves 1906 with 1866 and brings it all together in a wonderful conclusion.

Bianca Amato did a great job narrating as usual.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 24 September 2024

Tasha Alexander has written more than fifteen novels featuring Lady Emily and her husband Colin. Over time, Lady Emily has become one of my favorite characters as have the others who regularly appear in this historical mystery series.

We have now reached 1906. Lady Emily and Colin are traveling to winter time in Bavaria, home of Mad King Ludwig. They are at a house party that includes a variety of guests/suspects. Among them are several characters who are involved with the arts. There is also the Baroness’s not very well liked son in law.

In addition, readers will spend time with Ludwig and Niels. How will the two time periods and characters tie together?

What will happen when the mayhem begins? Find out in the capable narration of Tasha Alexander. Then, like me, wait for the next adventure to be published.

Fans who enjoy historical mysteries will, I think, want to take a look at this one. Come to the Bavarian Alps and enjoy the virtual trip and time periods.

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

Death by Misadventure is a historical mystery set in the Bavarian Alps, a picturesque backdrop that unfortunately fails to ignite the narrative. The novel, while promising a chilling tale of intrigue and murder, ultimately falls short due to its meandering plot, unconvincing characters, and a dual perspective that adds little to the story.
The central mystery, involving a series of seemingly accidental deaths, is slow to develop and lacks the urgency to keep the reader engaged. Lengthy descriptions and character musings weigh down the narrative, stalling its momentum. The amateur sleuths, Lady Emily and her husband Colin, are a tired trope, and their ability to pry information from reluctant witnesses without arousing suspicion strains credulity.
The characters, while intriguing on paper, are underdeveloped. The Baroness Ursula von Duchtel, with her eccentric personality and mysterious past, has the potential to be a fascinating figure, but her character is never fully explored. Similarly, the supporting cast, including the enigmatic Kaspar and the alluring coquette, are mere sketches, lacking the depth and complexity required to make them truly memorable.
The novel's dual perspective, alternating between the present-day investigation and the romance of a young King Ludwig, is a curious choice. While the historical subplot is intriguing, it feels disconnected from the central mystery and serves little purpose. It adds a layer of complexity to the story but fails to enhance the overall narrative.
Death by Misadventure is disappointing. While the author's skill at creating atmospheric settings is evident, the novel lacks the suspense, intrigue, and character development necessary to captivate the reader.

In the latest installment of Tasha Alexander’s New York Times bestselling series, Lady Emily must solve a string of high stakes “accidents” while trapped in a lavish villa in the Bavarian Alps.

Thank you Minotaur Books for sending me an ARC of this book! I decided to DNF it at 65 pages. I can’t get into it and I don’t like that this story has dual timelines.

I've read and enjoyed a few books from the Lady Emily Ashton mysteries. Death by Midadventure is the 18th, so if you want to start at the beginning, you've got quite a lot of reading to do! Those who love the series won't be disappointed.

Lady Emily and her husband Colin are invited to a beautiful villa in the Bavarian Alps, located near King Ludwig's fairytale castle. The castle is featured on the beautiful cover for the book. I enjoy the relationship between Lady Emily and her husband, and their soft detecting style, in beautiful or exotic settings with a real sense of place. This was no exception, and if you listen to the audio, with its subtle German accents, you will really feel like you are in a mountain abode.

I did not enjoy this story as much as some in the past books. I found the cast of characters hard to keep straight, and when someone was murdered i had to backtrack a little, because my reaction was "no who was that?" Maybe this was just me, and I shouldn't have read with a distracted mind. But what I can say is that this installment didn't keep me quite as enthralled as some of the past Lady Emily mysteries. Nevertheless, I will eagerly seek out the next installment when it is released! Overall, I found this an enjoyable read.

I would give it 3.5 stars, but will round up to 4.

Thank you to NetGalley, Tasha Alexander, and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.