In this delightful new addition to Celeste Connally’s historical mystery series, Lady Petra Inquires, the not-so-proper Lady Petra Forsyth must solve the murder of Sir Rufus Pomeroy, who had served as chef to the royal household and, years earlier, to Petra's father's house.

Readers met Lady Petra in ACT LIKE A LADY, THINK LIKE A LORD, and the plucky daughter of an earl has almost scandalous freedom. When her fiancé is killed, she decides never to marry. But she has fallen in love with Duncan Shawcross, the bastard grandson of a duke. They socialize in the same circles and grow up as friends. Now their relationship is whispered about behind closed doors by scandalized members of high society.

"For mystery lovers who enjoy history, this series is a surefire winner. The plots are carefully created and meticulously written."

Queen Charlotte and King George are celebrating their 54th wedding anniversary. The Queen has devised a week of extravagant activities, including a special event to determine the best cook in England. Think "The Great British Bake Off" as it might have appeared over 200 years ago. When Petra arrives at Windsor Castle to be a judge, she's almost immediately plunged into a mystery when she encounters Sir Rufus’ dead body.

It turns out that Sir Rufus had some nefarious dealings. While his valet, Oliver Beecham, was arrested for the murder, Petra knows he didn't do it. But Sir Rufus was seen arguing with six other people just before his death. Who were they, and which of them had a motive to kill him?

You might want to take notes, especially if you haven't read the previous two novels, because there are a number of characters and suspects. Red herrings abound, and it seems that there are many who might have wanted to cause Sir Rufus harm, including a relative of Lady Petra's. It's up to her to determine which one did the dirty deed before she herself comes to harm.

The mystery is well done, but what makes these books a pleasure to read are the descriptions of life during this time in history. It's “Bridgerton” in a mystery format --- Queen Charlotte in all her splendor and the Prince Regent as unctuous and unpleasant as reputed. When Connally describes the grounds of Windsor Castle, and the rooms and secret passages, it's fascinating. We can picture the courtyards, the brightly colored shawls that her aunt favors, the staid formality of the furnishings, and the excitement that the baking contest brings.

This competition is definitely modeled on the popular British show, although it’s slightly altered. Ten bakers begin, and two are eliminated each day. The descriptions of the bakes are fabulous. If only recipes had been included! When Petra is poisoned during one of the days judging, she knows that someone is afraid she is getting too close to solving the murder.

For mystery lovers who enjoy history, this series is a surefire winner. The plots are carefully created and meticulously written. Petra herself is an admirable and unlikely detective as she pursues truth while still attempting to protect those she cares for. The sheer novelty of the extravaganza, the free-spirited daughter of nobility-turned-detective, and the touch of romance make these books equally thoughtful and enjoyable.