Death Below Stairs

Starred review from October 30, 2017
Set in 1881, this exceptional series launch from Ashley (the Shifters Unbound series) introduces Kat Holloway, a brilliant cook employed in the lavish London home of Lord Rankin. The cast of distinctive, well-drawn characters includes Lady Cynthia, Lord Rankin’s cross-dressing sister, who embodies the plight of Victorian women forced into lives that don’t fit them; Daniel McAdam, a charming, secretive delivery man who helped Kat in a time of great need before she joined Lord Rankin’s household; and James, Daniel’s sweet, fiercely independent 15-year-old son. Kat and Daniel, aided by James and Lady Cynthia, investigate the murder of a young servant, battle Fenians, and race to thwart an act of terrorism. Meanwhile, Kat, a single mother, must deal with the possible loss of her 10-year-old daughter, who lives with a couple who now propose to adopt the girl. Kat’s displays of her knowledge of food and preparation techniques add to the story’s appeal. Readers will look forward to this fascinating lead’s further adventures. Agent: Bob Mecoy, Bob Mecoy Literary Agency.

An excellent story combines with an excellent narration. Anne-Marie Piazza's proper English accent is perfect for this murder mystery set in Victorian London. Shortly after Kat Holloway is hired as a cook at a Mayfair mansion, her assistant is found bludgeoned to death in the larder. As the murder investigation unfolds into a scheme to assassinate the queen, Piazza perfectly voices the various classes and accents of the characters who range from servants to aristocrats. Piazza deftly delivers the voice of Daniel McAdam, a mysterious man who can move among servants as well as gentry. Piazza effectively captures all the suspense and drama as Kat and Daniel risk their lives to save England from disaster. Listeners will be delighted with this series debut. M.M.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine