Member Reviews

This felt like coming back to an old friend. It wasn't my favorite of the series, but the characters are always comforting and interesting. Wrex and Sloane are growing together and as a family. I love how the author adds a little surprise in the beginning! The Weasels are still my favorite out of all the characters. They make me smile and go aww every time! The story keeps you guessing and makes you unsure as to who did the deed because, of course, everyone had an alibi. So all, and all a good book. I'm looking forward to the next awesome story!

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The Wrexford family has assembled for the wedding of Lady Cordelia and Kit Sheffield, but when two guests are missing and one ends up dead, Charlotte, Wrex, and the weasels get to work. Set against the backdrop of Napoleon's exile and the nascence of the Industrial Revolution, the mystery is interesting, though the twist/solution is something of a letdown. The interplay among the family and friends at the heart of this series is well depicted, but the prose is often ponderous and over-wordy to the point of near absurdity. How many times do characters need to remark that things are "havey-cavey" and that "skullduggery" is afoot?
Recommended for fans of the series.

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Murder at King's Crossing is the most recent release in the Wrexford & Sloane Regency mystery series. A well-written series with an engaging cast of characters, Murder at Kings's Crossing is no exception. Twists and turns and red herrings before we finally learn who killed the engineer at the washed out bridge. A quick, fun read.

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“Murder at King’s Crossing” is the eighth book in the Wrexford and Sloane series. Andrea Penrose’s series is a unique blend of engaging historical mystery and history of technology. In this story, characters are embroiled in the early 19th century competition for innovations in bridge design.

When dear friend and newlywed Cordelia’s cousin fails to show up for her wedding and a dead man is in possession of the cousin’s invitation, Wrex, Charlotte, and Sheffield, Cordelia’s husband, vow to get to the bottom of the mystery. There are numerous twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat as the group looks to solve the mystery.

This is one of my favorite historical mystery series because of the engaging characters as well as the historical research. The author’s afterword is always informative. If you haven’t started reading this series, you really should get started today.

This book is great for readers who enjoy well-researched historical mysteries and vivid characters.

I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

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Murder at King's Crossing is the 8th book in Andrea Penrose's Regency historical mystery series Wrexford & Sloane. I've only read book 4, and I really enjoyed it. I have discovered that each mystery stands alone. However, I recommend reading them in order, as I feel I have missed quite a bit of character development. I have been collecting those I haven't yet read so I can enjoy the progression of the characters and their relationships.

Wrexford and Charlotte are at their country estate hosting the wedding of their dearest friends, Christopher Sheffield and Lady Cordelia Mansfield. The celebration is brought to a screeching halt when local authorities arrive with news that a murdered man has been discovered at the bridge over King’s Crossing, and the only clue to his identity is an invitation to the wedding. Cordelia is horrified when the victim is identified as Jasper Milton, her childhood friend; he was a brilliant engineer who is rumored to have discovered a revolutionary technological innovation in bridge design. He had the invitation meant for her cousin Oliver, who never showed up for the wedding. Both Jasper and Oliver were involved in the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society, a scientific group dedicated to making radical improvements in the speed and cost of transportation throughout Britain. Did someone want to steal Milton's design, and did Oliver have anything to do with his murder? Cordelia is determined to find out the truth, so Wrex and Charlotte, along with their wards the "Weasels", join in to solve the mystery. And what they discover shocks them...

This was a complicated, interesting mystery. I kept on changing my mind as to the identity of the murderer. There were red herrings galore, and the cast of suspects, and murder victims, kept on growing. I was greatly entertained. As with book 4, this one kept me on the edge of my seat, but it's the characters who make the story. Wrex, the Earl of Wrexford, is an analytical man who is also an experimental scientist who works with metals. He is married to Charlotte, formerly Lady Charlotte Sloane. Charlotte is the creator of satirical cartoons which she publishes under the pseudonym A.J. Quill. She often goes looking for stories disguised as a boy. The marriage of such different people would seem odd, but it works for them. Wrex has a reputation of being grumpy, but he's certainly not that way with his family. It's obvious he has a deep and abiding love for his wife and the Weasels. Two of the Weasels, Raven and Hawk, were formerly street urchins but are now Wrex's wards. The newest official Weasel is Falcon, who was not a street urchin; he was a friend of the boys, and when he was kicked out of Eton for a spectacular stink bomb prank, his guardian came to Wrex and Charlotte for help, and now Falcon, too, is their ward. Cordelia, a brilliant mathematician, just married Kit (Christopher), Wrex's best friend. They are great characters, but my favorites are Alison (Charlotte's great-aunt, the dowager Countess of Peake) and McClellan (called Mac, who was Charlotte's lady maid but kept the entire household running properly while making the best ginger biscuits ever). They both helped with investigations, along with Wrex's valet Tyler. Now here's a part of the story I had a bit of a problem with, causing me to put down the book for a while. Science and mathematics play a big role in this story; let's just say they are not my forte. My eyes roll to the back of my head at the discussion of math; I am a words person. The science was interesting. And bridges were prominently featured in the mystery; I learned a lot about bridges that I didn't know...and didn't WANT to know! I don't care about them. (I'm sure I'd care if I was on one with many defects, but still...). It is apparent that the author did her homework, and she provided an important history lesson. Though the math and technical issues weren't my thing, it's the character-driven story that I love, and the mystery was engaging. I'm eager to find out what mystery the Wrexford household gets sucked into next!

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.

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Another fun mystery featuring the growing Wrexford/Sloan brood.
The wedding of Sheffield and Cordelia is interrupted by the discovery of the body of someone who was carrying an invitation to the wedding. Of course the crew must investigate, which leads them to the revolutions-per-minute society, a group dedicated to improving travel in England. The investigation centers around them and whether one of them got greedy and planned on selling some revolutionary idea to France.
The whole gang is involved in tracking down clues and solving the murder. Another satisfying book in this series.

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This is one series where I wait eagerly for more books. The dynamic between the characters is lovely, supportive, friendly, loving. Each person has a definitive role. This book focuses on bridges, strengthening of them, to improve transportation. Except a key member is murdered and the 5eam is out to unravel the mystery. Plenty of thrilling moments, intellectual dialogue, science, clues, red herringbone and a grand conclusion.

Never disappointed, from an ardent fan.

#netgalley #MurderAtKingsCrossing

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1814 When Jasper Milton, member of Revolutions-Per-Minute Society is murdered by 'Axe' the Wexfords are notified of the death. But his important papers for a revolutionary idea for bridge building have gone missing with number of groups searching for them. But who is the killer of more than Milton. Wexford and his extended family investigate.
An entertaining and well-written histoical mystery with its interesting and likeable cast of characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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I can't say enough good things about this series. Ms. Penrose has written another action packed adventure for Wrex, Charlotte and the Weasels. The Wrexford "family" is really special; and I love how it has grown throughout the series. I admire the in-depth research Ms. Penrose shares in each book. This one centers around mathematics and how it can be the basis for improving transportation throughout England and eventually the world by improving bridges.

There were twists, red herrings, suspects that seemed to be innocent yet shady by their actions, several heart-stopping moments for both Charlotte, the Weasels and Wrex. I truly enjoyed seeing Wrex confound the corrupt perpetrators when he escaped the "Lockbox". The dramatic conclusion kept me gripping my Kindle with my heart in my throat as Wrex faced off with the murderer.

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Another wonderful read by this author. This book although part of a series can be read as a standalone story. It is much better though to read the ones before to fully understand the relationship between the characters. This is well written with lots of twists and turns, humor, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. It is very hard to put down once you start. I love the characters and the relationship and interaction between the adults and the children. Once again there was so much research that went into this book. I did find all the information about mathematics a bit beyond me, but it still made for a good mystery. There is no sex or swearing in this book which for me makes it even more enjoyable. I now look forward to the next one. I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and freely give my review.

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The eighth outing of Wrexford and Sloane does not disappoint! As with earlier books, the plot centers around the leading science of the Regency era in England interwoven with a murder. Each book in the series continues to develop favorite characters from earlier novels and further their relationships with each other. The science behind building longer bridges is interwoven with French plots, Napoleon's exile, and more. The wards of the Earl of Wrexford and his wife Charlotte, affectionately known as the Weasels, get their own satisfactory turn in helping solve the mystery. I look forward to the future adventures of Charlotte, Wrex, Raven, Hawk, Falcon, and more. And, of course, Harper the dog!

I am grateful to #NetGalley and Kensington for the opportunity to read an advance copy of Murder at King's Crossing. #MurderatKingsCrossing #NetGalley

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Another good addition to this historical mystery series.

I sensed some possible changes in the storyline going forward as one character, in particular, seemed to be having some personal issues (or perhaps just some questioning of their lives), and if I'm reading that correctly, I wonder where that arc might lead.

This one pretty much involved ALL of the characters, and I love to see that as Penrose has some interesting and entertaining side characters she has developed. And as it takes place around the wedding celebration of two of the most beloved side characters, this one is extra special for that alone.

There's a good bit of historical data, which at times can get a little overwhelming/distracting, but I also found much of it enlightening as well.

Exciting, intense denouement. And as always, I'll look forward to the next outing for Wrexford & Sloane.

My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing the free early arc of Murder at King's Crossing for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

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There is nothing better than a historical mystery and when it is part of this fabulous series, it does not get much better!

I have listened to this series on audible and love hearing the story unfold. But regardless of in print or audible, the characters bring the story to life with a lot of red herrings thrown in that keep you glued to the page!

Do not miss this latest installment and if you haven't, be sure to read the entire series!

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This was another fun entry from Penrose’s series of mysteries involving Lord Wrexford and his wife Charlotte and all their friends and their delightful “Weasels,” the three young boys whom they have charge of. In this Regency setting, the books in the series explore mysteries involving murder amidst inventions and innovations of the Industrial Revolution.

In this case they investigate the murder of a gifted engineer reputed to have figured out a way to build longer bridges that can withstand more weight. Realizing the financial windfall such a patent would have, he’s murdered and our protagonists have to figure out who killed him.

While both the earl and his wife conduct their own investigations, the young boys take advantage of their skills in sneaking around to contribute to the hunt. If you haven’t read the earlier books in the series, I’d recommend reading them. They’re enjoyable reads and you’ll have a better feel for the characters and how they’ve come together as an unlikely group of detectives.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.

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I received a copy of this book from the publisher, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Murder at King's Crossing is the latest tile in the Wrexford and Sloane series. The book begins with the wedding of Charlotte and Wrexford's good freinds, Christopher and Cordelia. Unfortunately, one of the guests, Oliver, a cousin of Cordelia, doesn't show up; it is later revealed that he was murdered on his way to the wedding. This leads to Charlotte and Wrexford departing to London so they can investigate if his work in advanced mathematics and engineering played a part in his demise. I really love the found family aspect of this title as Charlotte and Wrexford are guardians for 2 former street kids as well as Peregrin, who lost his parents and uncle before finding his way into their care. The mystery is well done and as always in this series, there is a technological aspect to the mystery that proves key. I I continue to look forward to many more titles in the series.

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Celebration is in the air at Wrexford and Charlotte’s country estate as they host the nuptials of their friends, Christopher Sheffield and Lady Cordelia Mansfield. But the festivities are interrupted when the local authorities arrive with news that a murdered man has been discovered at the bridge over King’s Crossing, his only identification an invitation to the wedding. Lady Cordelia is horrified when the victim is identified as Jasper Milton, her childhood friend and a brilliant engineer who is rumoured to have discovered a revolutionary technological innovation in bridge design. That he had the invitation meant for her cousin Oliver, who never showed up for the wedding, stirs a number of unsettling questions. Wrexford and Charlotte were looking forward to spending a peaceful interlude in the country, but when Lady Cordelia resolves to solve the mystery, they offer their help.
The eighth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own. I’ve loved how the characters have developed throughout the series & how the relationships have changed & deepened. Another well written, well researched engrossing book. The characters have depth, the descriptions are vivid & the pace is good. The murder mystery is well plotted & as usual I was left guessing. The series goes from strength to strength & I look forward to many more
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

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Marriage and mystery!

Once again Charlotte, Countess of Wrexford and the Earl, along with the entertaining weasels and friends are caught up in murder and mysteries. Not only that but Peregrine is expelled from Eton!
The brilliant Lady Cordelia Mansfield and Wrexford’s friend Christopher Sheffield are to be married. A surprise guest is going to attend but he doesn’t make it. He’s murdered. For sometime the body is believed to be Cordelia’s cousin Oliver. It isn’t. It’s Cordelia’s brilliant engineer friend, Jasper Milton.
Oliver has disappeared which is suspicious. Is Oliver the murderer?
However deeper concerns come to the fore.
Had Jasper discovered the mathematical secret to building bridges with longer spans?
How might this affect the situation in Europe with Napoleon sequestered on Elba and the French dissatisfied once again with their Bourbon ruler?
Then there’s the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society both men belonged to. A scientific group concerned with the radical improvement of transport and speed.
We learn more about Wrexham, his warmth towards the weasels, and his and Charlotte’s ideas about family.
Another satisfying, suspenseful read featuring one of my favorite group of characters.

A Kensington ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

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I think this is one of the best historical mystery series with cozy aspects. There's a lot of attention to the details, a strong set of characters, and a well plotted and solid mysteries
These stories kept me hooked and guessing but also made me learn about satire, science, and the life of the poorer people.
This is a very good one and I loved it since the first pages.
I cannot wait to read the next, this one is highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

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Another great addition to this series.

I really enjoy this cozy mystery series. It's always nice to see how Lord and Lady Wrexford and their band of miscreants will solve the crime. This novel really centered around changes in society as scientific knowledge progressed. I thought there were a lot of parallels to today's topics of scientific progress (AI in particular) even though this takes place 200 years ago. I always enjoy getting a glimpse into what life was like back then. I'm enjoying the new characters being introduced, especially von Münch, and I look forward to seeing how the series progresses.

Thanks to Net Galley for the book to review.

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The is the eighth book in the delightful Regency era Wrexford and Sloan series. Lady Charlotte and Lord Wrexford are hosting the wedding of the very good friends Lady Cordelia Mansfield and Christopher Sheffield who have had an ongoing love-hate relationship through the earlier books in the series.

The body of a murdered man with an invitation to the wedding is discovered. He turns out to be a prominent engineer, a childhood friend of Cordelia, And Cordelia's cousin Oliver, expected at the wedding, is missing.

Solving the mysteries involves all the major characters from the previous books in the series, along with the addition of a third Weasel, the affectionate nickname for Lord and Lady Wrexford's young wards.

There are a lot of twists and turns, along with well-researched interesting information about the state of transportation and engineering in the Regency period.

I read a lot of books, review relatively few, consider Penrose one of my favorite authors, and recommend this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advance copy in exchange for my unbiased review.

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