Murder at the Seven Dials

Bow Street Duchess Mystery Series, Book 1

By: Cara Devlin

Narrated by: Allie Rose

Length: 10 hrs and 16 mins

Publisher's summary

A murdered opera singer. A duke drenched in her blood. For Bow Street Officer Hugh Marsden, the brutal killing is a straightforward case. Ever since his exile from polite society, the chance to arrest a high and mighty peer of the realm has never presented itself. Hugh won't snub the opportunity now.

But Audrey Sinclair, the Duchess of Fournier, is certain her husband is wrongly accused, and she's determined to prove it to the arrogant Bow Street officer, even if she must employ her most peculiar ability—or perhaps curse—to guide her investigation. After all, a duchess can do as she pleases.

Exasperated with the meddling duchess, Hugh is convinced she is protecting her own secrets, and the duke's. But when Audrey's discoveries persuade him to believe the true killer is still at large, he has no choice but to join her in the hunt—if only to keep her from becoming the next victim.

©2023 Cara Devlin (P)2023 Tantor

Loved the books! I also love the audible now.

This series has been my new fave and I was super happy to see the audible come up for book one. I really enjoyed the narration, and the only downside is it makes me want the next books right now! Interesting mystery, some oh no don't do that and the beginnings of smolder in a slow burn romance.

Mystery Maven

What an interesting wrinkle. Good mystery, good narration of all the characters, and then the secrets: or should I call them twists. So I’m going for the next book to see how the twists develop. Recommend, take the chance, nicely done.

Interesting look at the ton & working life

Really enjoyed seeing both the Ton & working class folks through these two characters. The supernatural aspect is written in a believable way & the chemistry between the two main characters is palpable. Enjoyed the twist at the end as well regarding the murder. Super well done! Can’t wait to read/listen to the rest of the series!

My kind of mystery!

This is a great listen! If this is Cara Devlin's first mystery she's someone to watch. This started off with everything I needed: a compelling murder, old England -- rich and poor, gorgeous description, and the chemistry between the two main characters is perfect. The pacing is excellent! I can't wait to get book 2 and the bonus is the narrator Allie Rose is incredible! And I'm fussy!

Very captivating

I loved the reader for both parts! the story flowed wonderfully, and had me trying to guess the killer !

The determination of Her Grace Audrey.

Good story. Looking forward to the next book. Characters are well developed and believable. The circumstances of the women married to a Gay man could have been taken from today’s headlines.

Enjoyable!

It took me a while to get used to the voices, but I really liked this book.

The perfect trifecta of ingredients

Regency era, supernatural abilities, crime solving with a healthy dash of attraction PLUS a well delivered narration by Allie Rose!!

I try my best not to discuss the plot in case I accidentally spoil it for others. What I love are the characters, none of the women who are touted as intelligent but then do many things that make you cringe in disbelief.

Cara Devlin introduces her main female character as intelligent and gifted but due to her history regarding her gift she is still innocent in many ways. How Ms. Devlin writes and develops each of the characters is thoughtful and if you are new to Regency Era stories (any pre modern settings) you are made aware of the era’s restrictions on women especially of the upper tier and those of the peerage.

Please read or listen to the series in the order intended. Ms. Devlin develops each of her characters with each instalment and how they play into that book. You will love the plots, the smart & witty dialogues and develop the healthy dislike to those horrible characters and cheer along the right ones!

Mediocre

The story had potential but I kept waiting on the sexual tension to increase. It never did and the ending is so NOT satisfying.

It’s ok

It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great. Narration was fine the story was just slow and predictable.