Lady Takes the Case

Set in 1912, the pseudonymous Casey’s solid first novel and series launch focuses on the plight of Lord and Lady Avebury, who are near financial ruin: the only way to save their beloved Yorkshire estate, Danby Hall, is for their shy, botanist son, Patrick, to marry Annabel Clarke, an American heiress. The Countess of Avebury invites Annabel and a host of distinguished guests to a grand weeklong event, which includes a garden party, archery, and croquet, and a masquerade ball to help seal the engagement. During a formal dinner, the fatal poisoning of a celebrated explorer upsets everyone at Danby Hall and threatens Patrick’s marriage prospects. Annabel’s American maid, Jane Hughes, befriends Lady Cecelia Bates, Patrick’s feisty 19-year-old sister, and together, with the help of Jane’s cat, Jack, they set out to solve the murder. Jack plays a key role in the mystery’s resolution. Casey portrays an appealing aristocratic world, though some readers will struggle to keep track of the large cast of lords and ladies. Downton Abbey fans will look forward to the sequel. Agent: Gail Fortune, Talbot Fortune Agency. (Nov.)