A Beautiful Blue Death

Charles Lenox Mysteries Series #1

By: Charles Finch

Narrated by: James Langton

Charles Lenox, Victorian gentleman and armchair explorer, likes nothing more than to relax in his private study with a cup of tea, a roaring fire and a good book. But when his lifelong friend Lady Jane asks for his help, Lenox cannot resist the chance to unravel a mystery. Prudence Smith, one of Jane's former servants, is dead of an apparent suicide. But Lenox suspects something far more sinister: murder, by a rare and deadly poison. The grand house where the girl worked is full of suspects, and though Prue had dabbled with the hearts of more than a few men, Lenox is baffled by the motive for the girl's death. When another body turns up during the London season's most fashionable ball, Lenox must untangle a web of loyalties and animosities. Was it jealousy that killed Prudence Smith? Or was it something else entirely? And can Lenox find the answer before the killer strikes again---this time, disturbingly close to home?

©2007 Charles Finch (P)2011 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Vividly capturing the essence of Victorian England, Finch presents us with a unique sleuth who combines the deductive powers of Sherlock Holmes with the people skills of Thomas Pitt. A sparkling achievement." ( Library Journal, Starred Review)

Great listen.

Enjoyed it. I originally got a few Lennox mysteries out of order. I am now listening to all of them in order.

Solid mystery if you don't mind a slower pace

A bit slow at times, but I enjoyed the mystery and the characters. The narration was mostly excellent - except for the main character, who had a most unpleasant voice. I wondered if I'd make it through the entire book, but luckily the story and voices of other characters were engaging enough to overcome Charles's flat delivery.

Great story -- narration, not so much

This character driven mystery is charming; description of place and time are very good. The narrator, however, detracts from the story, particularly in the voice of Charles Lenox. He sounds supercilious, and flippant. I find this in contrast to the character's actual words. Nonetheless, I've bought the next 2.

For Fans of Victoriana

This book is a moderately diverting tale set in Victorian London. Its hero is an aristocratic sleuth, who is all intelligence, kindness and insight. These qualities are counterbalanced by...nothing. He is an extraordinarily tepid character, carrying on a barely perceptible courtship with an equally intelligent and pallid aristocratic widow. Blood hardly seems to flow in their veins. They have money and position and time, none of which is at stake, so they spend all three in the service of solving the troubles of the lower orders.

Charming, and a good read

I love the style of writing, makes one think of Jeeves and Wooster. Look forward to listening to the next in the series.

comfy cozy mystery

I loved it. Very genteel and proper, yet keeps you guessing. Lovely characters. Mystery is good.

Excellent Period Story

If you like Period pieces, esp. mystery/detective stories you should definitely look into this series. Characters are likable, narration excellent. Looks to paint a nice image of London in the mid 1800's. Have listened to this one (Book 1) and Book 0, will definitely get Book 2. BTW, the narration did enhance the book, I bet the audio version is a better 'read' than the written book

Enjoyed

This isn't the best mystery I have ever read, but I did enjoy it. It is in the "british mystery" vein of slow, more character driven plots. If those are your cuppa, then this is a good choice.

I liked the characters. The plot was a little predictable.

Was good but 2 hours too long.

Good story, Interesting characters…2 hours 2 long. Started to drag . Just too long and dragged out.

Clever and elegant story, read beautifully

I’ve discovered my next series ! The writing is clear, the story is satisfyingly twisty, the characters are engaging. The reader does a fine job of bringing to life the various high- and low-brow accents, and the whole experience was charming. I don’t always like stories of aristos but this one works. Bravo!