Murder at Keyhaven Castle

This is the third book in the Stella and Lyndy mystery series, although it was easy to read as a standalone novel. Stella Kendrick is a modern (for 1905) American young woman, only child of ambitious billionaire Elijah Kendrick who has arranged for Stella to marry the impoverished Lord Lyndhurst. After the events of the two previous books I understand that Stella has actually fallen in love with Lyndy, although she still resents her father for forcing her to marry a complete stranger. As the wedding day approaches family and friends descend upon Lyndy's home Morrington Hall in the New Forest, including Lyndy's best friends, Stella's aunts, her father's business rival/friend Theo Swenson, his wife and their daughter Penny. Unexpectedly, Elijah's ne'er do well brother Jed and his two children have also arrived, uninvited, to join the party. As the Hendricks go to the Southampton docks to collect the Swensons they witness a terrible accident, a runaway cart and horses run over and kill a young man. However, it appears that the young man has a connection to Morrington Hall, as he was overheard threatening to kill someone there. Then a murder far closer to home throws everything into turmoil, but with everyone a suspect can Stella and Lyndy uncover the murderer and finally get married? I have to admit I struggled with the start of this book. The appearance of an American cowboy in Southampton docks and the rather offensive way Lyndy's friends spoke were a little off putting. However, I wasn't going to throw in the towel at only 7% so, after a bit of a delay, I started again. This was a cracking romp, lots of suspects in a fairly isolated country house. Scandals, cheats, blackmail, secret correspondents, and horse race fixing all swirled into a fun mix. I guessed the murderer's identity quite early on, I specifically noted it at 55% through the book, although I had thought so for some time, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Murder at Keyhaven Castle by Clara McKenna is a English Historical Mystery Series at the turn of the Century. Mysteries, murders, and scandals until the end. I love the intricate plots, historical facts, animals and unusual characters in this series. Stella and Lyndy are exciting, clever and loving without being sappy. Every old and new character is well woven into each mystery. I can’t wait to read the conclusion but sorry when each book ends and I’m left wanting the next book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars

1905 British WhoDunit This book is the third in a series, but it can be read alone. The story involves old castles, racehorses, and American heiresses being married by aristocrats for their money. The background story of the murder has many twists that complicate the mystery. Plenty of witnesses are lying to protect themselves and their secrets. While are truly enjoyed the horses, it was more fun watching the Americans shock the stuffy Brits by being open and honest. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.