1936, Kitty is invited to review a hotel before it opens to the general public. The luxury hotel is set on an island, no expense has been spared and the atmosphere is opulent. However, the owner is found dead in a locked room with a gun in his hand. A hand that could never have pulled the trigger…
Murder at the Island Hotel is the 15th book to feature Kitty and her husband Matt, a private investigator team in the 1930s.
Kitty goes back to her hotel roots to give feedback on a new hotel venture, The magnificent island hotel is the epitome of elegance aimed at an exclusive clientele. Sir Norman and his fiancee are the owners but he is found dead and Kitty is sure it is murder. But the room was locked and there are no obvious motives or suspects.
Kitty sets to works straight away while she waits for the police and her husband to arrive on the island. Her investigations produce new information about finances and relationships that could have caused murderous intent. But she isn’t quick enough to prevent a second death…
There is a great atmosphere created as she endures the stormy weather and the turmoil within the hotel. The mystery is well sustained despite the limited setting and range of suspects. There are historical details about gender and class attitudes which felt authentic and added depth to the plot and characters.
Murder at the Island Hotel is another enjoyable instalment in this cosy historical murder mystery series.
A gorgeous island off the English coast, a beautiful hotel perched on the cliffs, a group of glamourous friends… and a suspicious death? Kitty Underhay’s invitation didn’t mention murder!
Spring, 1936. As the boat draws into the harbour of Bird Island, Kitty is absolutely delighted to see the stunning hotel for the first time. She and her friend Alice have been asked to join the distinguished guests before the hotel officially opens its doors, but they have barely unpacked when the owner is found dead in his own study…
Sir Norman’s death looks like suicide. But Kitty isn’t convinced – she cannot find a note, and he is left-handed but was shot on the right side of his head. Kitty tries to reach the police, but a violent storm engulfs the island and the power goes out. Kitty and Alice need to move quickly before anyone else finds death on their dinner menu!
With several old friends amongst their suspects, Kitty decides the investigation should stay secret. But it’s not until Kitty uncovers Sir Norman’s financial difficulties that she’s on the killer’s trail. Can Kitty and Alice catch the culprit in time for tea, or will they become the next guests on the murderer’s list?
Fans of T.E. Kinsey, Agatha Christie or Lee Strauss will adore this warm and witty whodunnit. An utter delight to read!
Author Bio
Helena Dixon splits her time between the Black Country and Devon. Married to the same man for over thirty-five years she has three daughters, a cactus called Spike, and a crazy cockapoo. She is allergic to adhesives, apples, tinsel and housework. Helena was winner of The Romance Prize in 2007 and Love Story of the Year 2010 as Nell Dixon. She now writes historical 1930’s set cozy crime. Nell enjoys hearing from readers and you can read her news and contact her via her website at http://www.nelldixon.com visit her blog at http://www.nelldixonrw.blogspot.com.
