Published in 2024, the eighth Cleopatra Fox mystery is available on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, Kindle, and audiobook.

The story follows book seven. Set in London in July 1900, the Mayfair housekeeper recommends Cleopatra’s services to her sister, who works in a private household where the butler was pronounced dead of natural causes. She is unconvinced, as the man acted mysteriously before his death, especially around guests who also seemed suspicious when they saw him.

The butler’s murder investigation leads Cleo and Harry to two cold cases: a murdered maid and the disappearance of the prime suspect in her murder. Perhaps all three are linked, and solving one will resolve them all. Cleo learns the rich and powerful dislike having their secrets revealed or their past unearthed, making her task difficult. Still, she keeps questioning suspects and gathering clues to discover the truth.

For once, Cleo is unsure whether Harry Armitage’s help as a sounding board and co-investigator is wise or if she should discourage it and put distance between them. Archer continues the push-and-pull rhythm in their relationship. At some point, the sword will have to fall one way or the other. The book centers on the murder investigations, not life at the hotel or high-society parties. Archer offers a sliver of insight into Uncle Ronald through a few interactions with Cleo, and readers glimpse a slight relenting on his part towards Harry.

The easy-to-read, beautifully crafted world Archer presents in this historical mystery, with its undercurrents of romance, is a wonderful fit for readers looking for their next whodunit escape, a 3-star read.