The Coat of Arms Killer by Frances Lloyd

4 Stars from me

My first time reading a Frances Lloyd novel, and my first introduction to Detective Jack Dawes – even though this is the 12th in the series – how I have missed out on this series is mystery enough and yet there’s a whole story line to devour too.

Focused around the life of and longevity of the old money, long lineage, Fitzwarren family, this book weaves a delightfully intriguing tale of mystery all while delivering comedic take on the aristocracy and eccentricity of those rich enough to be out of touch with the real world.

Some might liken it to Downton Abbey but I also found it put me in mind of Midsomer Murders where the lead detective gets half of his information and ideas from his wife who just happens to inveigal herself into the most helpful situations, that just happen to relate to practically every aspect of the case.

I loved the scene setting and who doesn’t enjoy a book featuring a matriarchal Dowager? Frances Lloyd has packed clever little humour points into the story and devised an odd bunch of mostly unlikable and self-serving characters who truly bring the pages to life.

This is a highly enjoyable, engaging, cosy/mystery and I am grateful to Zooloos Book Tours, and Frances Lloyd for letting me be a part of this blog tour. I shall be looking out for more by of the Jack Dawes books.

Blurb:A killer is stalking the illustrious Fitzwarren family. And any of the clan could be next . . .

Lord Hugo may be heir to the Fitzwarren millions. But everyone knows who rules the roost in this noble old family. His formidable mother, Lady Beatrice. It’s been that way since her husband met his watery end. In a boating accident, poor thing.

Now, on the eve of her seventieth birthday, Lord Hugo plans to give his mama a gift she’ll never a portrait of her dear, departed husband.

Guests gather at the Fitzwarrens’ decadent ancestral pile, waiting with bated breath for a glimpse of the painting. Detective Jack Dawes is among them, his wife Corrie on his arm. A cord is pulled. The curtain falls . . . and Lady B lets out a blood-curdling scream.

It’s not the likeness that has her spooked. It’s the dagger, plunged deep in her husband’s chest. Scrawled beneath, in blood-red paint, there’s a single word. Killer.

Is it a spiteful prank . . . or something more sinister?

Detective Jack’s determined to find out. But he’s got his work cut out — with the frosty Fitzwarrens seeking to shut him down at every turn and Lord Hugo himself mysteriously missing.

Lord Hugo’s family are certain he’ll turn up in his own time. But Jack knows the clock is ticking to solve this baffling case.