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Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries #2
How to Get Away with Myrtle
Before the train has left the station, England’s most accomplished new detective already is on a suspect’s trail.
Myrtle Hardcastle has no desire to go on a relaxing travel excursion with her aunt Helena when there are More Important things to be done at home, like keeping close tabs on criminals and murder trials. Unfortunately, she has no say in the matter. So off Myrtle goes—with her governess, Miss Judson, and cat, Peony, in tow—on a fabulous private railway coach headed for the English seaside.
Myrtle is thrilled to make the acquaintance of Mrs. Bloom, a professional insurance investigator aboard to protect the priceless Northern Lights tiara. But before the train reaches its destination, both the tiara and Mrs. Bloom vanish. When Myrtle arrives, she and Peony discover a dead body in the baggage car. Someone has been murdered—with Aunt Helena’s sewing shears.
The trip is derailed, the local police are inept, and Scotland Yard is in no rush to arrive. What’s a smart, bored Young Lady of Quality stranded in a washed-up carnival town to do but follow the evidence to find out which of her fellow travelers is a thief and a murderer?
Myrtle Hardcastle has no desire to go on a relaxing travel excursion with her aunt Helena when there are More Important things to be done at home, like keeping close tabs on criminals and murder trials. Unfortunately, she has no say in the matter. So off Myrtle goes—with her governess, Miss Judson, and cat, Peony, in tow—on a fabulous private railway coach headed for the English seaside.
Myrtle is thrilled to make the acquaintance of Mrs. Bloom, a professional insurance investigator aboard to protect the priceless Northern Lights tiara. But before the train reaches its destination, both the tiara and Mrs. Bloom vanish. When Myrtle arrives, she and Peony discover a dead body in the baggage car. Someone has been murdered—with Aunt Helena’s sewing shears.
The trip is derailed, the local police are inept, and Scotland Yard is in no rush to arrive. What’s a smart, bored Young Lady of Quality stranded in a washed-up carnival town to do but follow the evidence to find out which of her fellow travelers is a thief and a murderer?
1 pages, Audio CD
First published October 6, 2020
87 people are currently reading
2594 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth C. Bunce
14 books857 followersElizabeth C. Bunce is the Edgar Award-winning author of the Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series, beginning with Premeditated Myrtle, an Edgar Allan Poe "Edgar" Award Winner, a Society of Midland Authors Honoree, a Library of Congress 2021 Book Festival Selection, Amazon Top 20 Children's Book of the Year, Indie Next Pick, and finalist for both the Agatha Award and Anthony Award. Her series continues in How to Get Away with Myrtle (a #1 Amazon New Release) and Cold-Blooded Myrtle, also an Edgar Award finalist, an Agatha Award finalist, and Anthony Award finalist, as well as a Kirkus Top 10 Best Book of the Year, Indie Next Pick, a Silver Falchion Award finalist, and
Wall Street Journal
holiday guide pick. The series' fourth book, In Myrtle Peril, has garnered Elizabeth's third Anthony Award nomination and third Agatha Award nomination, and in 2023 look for the fifth book in the series, Myrtle, Means, & Opportunity! Her first novel, A Curse Dark as Gold, won the inaugural William C. Morris Award for a young adult debut novel and was named a Smithsonian Notable Book and an Amelia Bloomer Project selection. Her high fantasy Thief Errant series includes the novels StarCrossed, A Chicago Public Library Best of the Best book, and Liar's Moon, one of Kirkus Blog's Favorite YA Novels of 2011. StarCrossed and A Curse Dark as Gold have appeared on Oprah's Kids Reading List. Premeditated Myrtle was named both a Best Children's/YAA BookPage Best Book and to A Mighty Girl's Books of the Year. Her novels have been named to the ALA's Best Fiction for Young Adults list, and she is a four-time Kansas Notable Book winner. An accomplished needlewoman and historical costumer, Elizabeth lives in the Midwest with her husband, her cats, and a boggart who steals books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
January 5, 2023
A missing tiara. Murder on a train. Aunt Helena arrested. Myrtle Hardcastle has to summon all the Exceptional Forbearance she can so she and Mrs. Judson can follow the clues and catch a killer. Along the way they explore a rickety old pier, do some beachcombing, avoid a local Duck Gang, and do some major fishing for evidence. The red herrings are hopping out of the sea left and right. And what if the murderer and thief are not one and the same? And I can't forget to mention the intrepid Peony, the wonder cat who loves to travel and accompanies Myrtle hither and yon during the investigatoin. This is such a clever and engaging series. Myrtle's sassy asides to the reader make us all feel like we are on her team. The excepts from Hardcastle's Practical Travel Companion at the beginning of each chapter give a tongue-in-cheek preview to the content ahead. This would be an enjoyable book for a mystery-loving parent, teacher, or caregiver to read with a budding mystery-loving kid. Can't wait to move on to Cold-Blooded Myrtle -- waiting for me on my Kindle. Hurray!
January 5, 2025
3 stars, personally.
Started this audiobook while gardening and listened to about half of it before borrowing it from my e-library to finish it as I think this series may be one that is best read yourself (physically would be preferred because of the added footnotes which can have an odd formatting in an ebook edition; but I used the ebook for this reading).
I did have a bit of a time keeping track of everyone, but I suspect that was because this visual-learner was listening instead of reading it myself. Once I read the characters names and descriptions, I was able to keep everyone straight.
I think I prefer the first book in this series with that mystery, but this one was still interesting as well—yet it almost had a sadder tone because of the murder. I did figure out most of the ending about 50-70% through which alter some of my enjoyment because I was nearly fussing at Myrtle to see what I was seeing.
I was disappointed by God’s name being taken in vain from adults. It really wasn’t necessary. This altered my rating as well.
Overall, this one wasn’t bad, but I liked the first book much more. I do plan to continue on with the rest of the series as I like Myrtle and her personality.
Main content:
All about murders (including poisons, stabbing, strangulation, drowning), a murder, how it happened, who the murderer is & many, many mentions of all of it and potential hangings; Many mentions of thieves, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of a a ship explosions, deaths, & injuries; Mentions of possible explosions & threats to trains; Mentions of abductions.
A mention of a sketch of bodies being flung everywhere after a train explosion; A mention of ghastly things (like rattlesnakes or shrunken heads); A mention of a young women looking like she’d like to stab her father at a fork at dinner due to him brushing her thoughts aside.
Finding a murdered body (stabbed *Spoiler* , bluntly description); Being threatened at knifepoint, being kidnapped, & falling into water and being saved; An adult drinks brandy after a scare (on a train that’s supposed to be a temperance train) & a few mentions of alcohol and drinking; A few mentions of smoking; A few mentions of deaths of loved ones.
After Myrtle asks woman investigator what her husband thinks of her career, the woman says she hasn’t asked him in a while and “one day, I decided I was done letting [him] make up my mind for me”; A few jabs at women’s “delicate sensibilities”.
Myrtle does lie to a couple people for the sake of the investigation; Myrtle doesn’t want to disobey her governess and when told to stay out of the murder investigation, Myrtle tells her she will try; Myrtle thinks about how she and Miss Judson have long since mastered how to get around what Myrtle’s father allows them to do/not do; Myrtle does snoop and go through evidence even when Miss Judson tells her not to get involved (Myrtle reasons and justifies her actions, but Miss Judson implies she knows what Myrtle is up to later); Myrtle and a young boy sneak onto property that has a no trespassing sign (Myrtle says they can’t and the boy comments “what are you, a girl?” which makes Myrtle say yes but she’s not scared) and when they do sneak, Myrtle thinks that there’s a “delicious thrill” creeping on to the property); Myrtle thinks that while she hates to go behind Miss Judson’s back, she leaving her no choice; Myrtle protests about going into a tavern, but does to get information.
The main two constables/officers/investigators are either not prepared for a murder case (fainting when he sees the body) or rude to Myrtle and other women (because of their gender and also smacks Myrtle’s hand away; Later, he listens to a man rather than them and Myrtle blames biology); Myrtle comments that the press loves to report when women are killed; Myrtle has a bit of excitement of the thought of a disagreeable man being burned in an effigy.
A few mentions of a young child of “indeterminate gender” (Myrtle goes back and forth in her mind calling the child him? Her?).
Language: no major language used, instead of some minor words (darn, idiot, stupid, shut up) and British slang (blimey, bloomin’, what/where the blazes); Other phrases (for heaven’s sake, oh my heavens, what the devil) are said as well; God’s name is taken in vain three times (“Good God”, “Dear God Almighty”, a “godforsaken” place, also a cut-off “for the love of—“ and a “by the gods!”); Myrtle and others utter “Inappropriate Words” and “Unladylike word”; A mention of a queer feeling; A man is called “simple” by someone and does get easily upset.
Myrtle comments on not believing in ghosts; Myrtle feels someone’s “guiding presence” about the investigation (twice); A couple mentions of fossils & a Trilobite (evolution); A mention of a book that coined the term pandemonium which means “Place of All Demons” in Greek.
A mention of someone Thanking the Lord; A mention of Miss Judson’s parents ministering to prisoners; A mention of a hymn (Onward, Christian Soldiers).
(See my content reviews of the other books in this series:
Book 1, Book 2, Book 3, Book 4, and
Book 5)
Started this audiobook while gardening and listened to about half of it before borrowing it from my e-library to finish it as I think this series may be one that is best read yourself (physically would be preferred because of the added footnotes which can have an odd formatting in an ebook edition; but I used the ebook for this reading).
I did have a bit of a time keeping track of everyone, but I suspect that was because this visual-learner was listening instead of reading it myself. Once I read the characters names and descriptions, I was able to keep everyone straight.
I think I prefer the first book in this series with that mystery, but this one was still interesting as well—yet it almost had a sadder tone because of the murder. I did figure out most of the ending about 50-70% through which alter some of my enjoyment because I was nearly fussing at Myrtle to see what I was seeing.
I was disappointed by God’s name being taken in vain from adults. It really wasn’t necessary. This altered my rating as well.
Overall, this one wasn’t bad, but I liked the first book much more. I do plan to continue on with the rest of the series as I like Myrtle and her personality.
Main content:
All about murders (including poisons, stabbing, strangulation, drowning), a murder, how it happened, who the murderer is & many, many mentions of all of it and potential hangings; Many mentions of thieves, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of a a ship explosions, deaths, & injuries; Mentions of possible explosions & threats to trains; Mentions of abductions.
A mention of a sketch of bodies being flung everywhere after a train explosion; A mention of ghastly things (like rattlesnakes or shrunken heads); A mention of a young women looking like she’d like to stab her father at a fork at dinner due to him brushing her thoughts aside.
Finding a murdered body (stabbed *Spoiler* , bluntly description); Being threatened at knifepoint, being kidnapped, & falling into water and being saved; An adult drinks brandy after a scare (on a train that’s supposed to be a temperance train) & a few mentions of alcohol and drinking; A few mentions of smoking; A few mentions of deaths of loved ones.
After Myrtle asks woman investigator what her husband thinks of her career, the woman says she hasn’t asked him in a while and “one day, I decided I was done letting [him] make up my mind for me”; A few jabs at women’s “delicate sensibilities”.
Myrtle does lie to a couple people for the sake of the investigation; Myrtle doesn’t want to disobey her governess and when told to stay out of the murder investigation, Myrtle tells her she will try; Myrtle thinks about how she and Miss Judson have long since mastered how to get around what Myrtle’s father allows them to do/not do; Myrtle does snoop and go through evidence even when Miss Judson tells her not to get involved (Myrtle reasons and justifies her actions, but Miss Judson implies she knows what Myrtle is up to later); Myrtle and a young boy sneak onto property that has a no trespassing sign (Myrtle says they can’t and the boy comments “what are you, a girl?” which makes Myrtle say yes but she’s not scared) and when they do sneak, Myrtle thinks that there’s a “delicious thrill” creeping on to the property); Myrtle thinks that while she hates to go behind Miss Judson’s back, she leaving her no choice; Myrtle protests about going into a tavern, but does to get information.
The main two constables/officers/investigators are either not prepared for a murder case (fainting when he sees the body) or rude to Myrtle and other women (because of their gender and also smacks Myrtle’s hand away; Later, he listens to a man rather than them and Myrtle blames biology); Myrtle comments that the press loves to report when women are killed; Myrtle has a bit of excitement of the thought of a disagreeable man being burned in an effigy.
A few mentions of a young child of “indeterminate gender” (Myrtle goes back and forth in her mind calling the child him? Her?).
Language: no major language used, instead of some minor words (darn, idiot, stupid, shut up) and British slang (blimey, bloomin’, what/where the blazes); Other phrases (for heaven’s sake, oh my heavens, what the devil) are said as well; God’s name is taken in vain three times (“Good God”, “Dear God Almighty”, a “godforsaken” place, also a cut-off “for the love of—“ and a “by the gods!”); Myrtle and others utter “Inappropriate Words” and “Unladylike word”; A mention of a queer feeling; A man is called “simple” by someone and does get easily upset.
Myrtle comments on not believing in ghosts; Myrtle feels someone’s “guiding presence” about the investigation (twice); A couple mentions of fossils & a Trilobite (evolution); A mention of a book that coined the term pandemonium which means “Place of All Demons” in Greek.
A mention of someone Thanking the Lord; A mention of Miss Judson’s parents ministering to prisoners; A mention of a hymn (Onward, Christian Soldiers).
(See my content reviews of the other books in this series:
Book 1, Book 2, Book 3, Book 4, and
Book 5)
October 7, 2020
Oh Myrtle, Myrtle, Myrtle. She just keeps finding herself smack in the middle of a crime scene. What’s a smart, bored Young Lady of Quality stranded in a washed-up carnival town to do but follow the evidence to find out which of her fellow travelers is a thief and a murderer? This sequel was so much fun.
Writing/Humor: ★★★★
Pacing: ★★★★
Characters: ★★★★
Mystery: ★★★★
This sequel to the Myrtle Hardcastle mysteries was even more fun than the first one, and to be honest could be read first—up to you as the reader!
Myrtle is such a great character. Stuck in a time period where girls and women are usually confined to oppressive and restricted roles, Myrtle shucks tradition and decides to pursue her true passion: crime and science.
In this latest installment, things have seriously gone awry. Myrtle, her terrible Aunt Helena, her governess, and their cat, Peony, have all gone on a train trip to a far away seaside town. The last thing they expect to discover is a dead body on the train—pierced by Aunt Helena's own shears.
Can Myrtle solve the case and get to the bottom of it before it's too late?
Ah! There's something so special about discovering a middle grade series that holds up for us adults, too. Not that there is any expectation for a book to do so—if it's middle grade, the MOST important thing is that is should resonate with its young audience. But isn't it nice when a book crosses those age boundaries and becomes something for all?
That's what I would say this series excels at doing. Myrtle Hardcastle might be a 12 year old (with young moods and opinions) but her humor and situations appeal to all audiences. I loved watching Myrtle get to the bottom of the case in this one, too, and couldn't get enough of her adventures with Peony and the gang.
You go, Myrtle!
Thank you to Algonquin for my copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram
Writing/Humor: ★★★★
Pacing: ★★★★
Characters: ★★★★
Mystery: ★★★★
This sequel to the Myrtle Hardcastle mysteries was even more fun than the first one, and to be honest could be read first—up to you as the reader!
Myrtle is such a great character. Stuck in a time period where girls and women are usually confined to oppressive and restricted roles, Myrtle shucks tradition and decides to pursue her true passion: crime and science.
In this latest installment, things have seriously gone awry. Myrtle, her terrible Aunt Helena, her governess, and their cat, Peony, have all gone on a train trip to a far away seaside town. The last thing they expect to discover is a dead body on the train—pierced by Aunt Helena's own shears.
Can Myrtle solve the case and get to the bottom of it before it's too late?
Ah! There's something so special about discovering a middle grade series that holds up for us adults, too. Not that there is any expectation for a book to do so—if it's middle grade, the MOST important thing is that is should resonate with its young audience. But isn't it nice when a book crosses those age boundaries and becomes something for all?
That's what I would say this series excels at doing. Myrtle Hardcastle might be a 12 year old (with young moods and opinions) but her humor and situations appeal to all audiences. I loved watching Myrtle get to the bottom of the case in this one, too, and couldn't get enough of her adventures with Peony and the gang.
You go, Myrtle!
Thank you to Algonquin for my copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram
October 14, 2020
I loved this book just as much as the 1st!! I’m addicted to these characters! Literally have become my perfect MG detective mystery story. Myrtle is still so amazing, smart, brave, determined, loyal, & just the best detective ever. Myrtle, Miss Judson, & the “horrible” Aunt Helena go on holiday. Her father wants her to get as far away from things to do w/murder after her last “case”. Little did he know he was sending her & the others right into another one! Lol Everything happens on a train, & then they stay at this little town that has its own little mystery/tragedy. Peony the cat is in this 1 even more, & I love that cat so much lol she’s definitely a special cat. I love it when she “talks” too! Even the little details like that all add up to the perfection of these books. We also see “Stephen”(if you’ve read them, you know who this is lol), & I was so happy! He is hilarious!! & so smart! Myrtle gets a friend her age that helps a little in this too(Clive) & I loved that friendship. There were quite a few twists, & I was quite surprised by them-loved them. This was such a humorous, fun detective mystery. This 1 also has the * after certain words, w/a Myrtle description at the bottom of the page. Lol still adore that. Highly recommend these books!! I can’t wait until the 3rd comes out! I selfishly hope that there will be even more after that one. 💜💜
Synopsis of 1st book: Twelve-year-old Myrtle Hardcastle has a passion for justice and a Highly Unconventional obsession with criminal science. Armed with her father’s law books and her mum’s microscope, Myrtle studies toxicology, keeps abreast of the latest developments in crime scene analysis, and Observes her neighbors in the quiet village of Swinburne, England.
When her next-door neighbor, a wealthy spinster and eccentric breeder of rare flowers, dies under Mysterious Circumstances, Myrtle seizes her chance. With her unflappable governess, Miss Ada Judson, by her side, Myrtle takes it upon herself to prove Miss Wodehouse was murdered and find the killer, even if nobody else believes her — not even her father, the town prosecutor.
Synopsis of 1st book: Twelve-year-old Myrtle Hardcastle has a passion for justice and a Highly Unconventional obsession with criminal science. Armed with her father’s law books and her mum’s microscope, Myrtle studies toxicology, keeps abreast of the latest developments in crime scene analysis, and Observes her neighbors in the quiet village of Swinburne, England.
When her next-door neighbor, a wealthy spinster and eccentric breeder of rare flowers, dies under Mysterious Circumstances, Myrtle seizes her chance. With her unflappable governess, Miss Ada Judson, by her side, Myrtle takes it upon herself to prove Miss Wodehouse was murdered and find the killer, even if nobody else believes her — not even her father, the town prosecutor.
September 15, 2020
Myrtle is traveling by train for a holiday at the seaside, when a priceless tiara is stolen and one of the train passengers is murdered. The local police are incompetent, and only Myrtle and her irrepressible governess, Miss Judson, can solve the case and bring justice to the murderer. But how is a Proper Young Lady supposed to adhere to the Rules of Etiquette AND have the freedom to run around the beach solving crimes? Especially with mean Aunt Helena criticizing her every move.
I cannot describe how much I loved this second book in the Myrtle series!
One of the things that made me fall in love with this book is the incredible character development. I love how the main characters change their minds, discover new information, grow in their personalities and abilities, and suddenly realize that their relationships with other characters can be different.
I was fully invested in the character growth and the story from the very first page. The writing drew me in, and emotionally hooked me into the lives of the characters. Myrtle herself is a fantastic main heroine. She is energetic and emotional and incredibly intelligent. I absolutely adored her strong relationship with Miss Judson, and her evolving relationship with her Aunt Helena.
I was massively curious about every clue. I couldn't wait to read the next chapter and the next! I wanted to see how all the disparate clues could possibly come together to a rational conclusion. I was so pleased with the complexity of the mystery, and yet it all made sense in the end with everything explained and every loose end wrapped neatly in a bow. At one point, I thought that I had figured out who the murderer was, but I was completely wrong! I was genuinely surprised at the ending.
The secondary characters are wonderful as well, with the townspeople, train staff, hotel clerks, and local fishermen all playing their part. The setting of the beach, the hotel, the pier, and the ships all give a creepy or homey atmosphere to the story that adds so much to the action of each scene.
One of the things I really loved was how the history of the town was a big part of unraveling the murder mystery. Myrtle had to find out about the past in order to understand what was happening in the present, and it gave the story so much depth. Brilliant writing!
Another nice feature of this book is the gorgeous cover art, which gives little clues to the contents of the book with scissors, the pier, and a cat on the beach. All these things feature strongly in the plot, and I love how the artwork incorporates them.
I wish I could give this book 10 stars, and I look forward with extreme eagerness for the next books in the series!
Update: I forgot to mention how humorous the writing is! There is a lot of witty dialogue, funny aside comments to the reader, a jovial and charming solicitor, and these crazy ducks that terrorize the streets. It’s hilarious and wonderful!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
I cannot describe how much I loved this second book in the Myrtle series!
One of the things that made me fall in love with this book is the incredible character development. I love how the main characters change their minds, discover new information, grow in their personalities and abilities, and suddenly realize that their relationships with other characters can be different.
I was fully invested in the character growth and the story from the very first page. The writing drew me in, and emotionally hooked me into the lives of the characters. Myrtle herself is a fantastic main heroine. She is energetic and emotional and incredibly intelligent. I absolutely adored her strong relationship with Miss Judson, and her evolving relationship with her Aunt Helena.
I was massively curious about every clue. I couldn't wait to read the next chapter and the next! I wanted to see how all the disparate clues could possibly come together to a rational conclusion. I was so pleased with the complexity of the mystery, and yet it all made sense in the end with everything explained and every loose end wrapped neatly in a bow. At one point, I thought that I had figured out who the murderer was, but I was completely wrong! I was genuinely surprised at the ending.
The secondary characters are wonderful as well, with the townspeople, train staff, hotel clerks, and local fishermen all playing their part. The setting of the beach, the hotel, the pier, and the ships all give a creepy or homey atmosphere to the story that adds so much to the action of each scene.
One of the things I really loved was how the history of the town was a big part of unraveling the murder mystery. Myrtle had to find out about the past in order to understand what was happening in the present, and it gave the story so much depth. Brilliant writing!
Another nice feature of this book is the gorgeous cover art, which gives little clues to the contents of the book with scissors, the pier, and a cat on the beach. All these things feature strongly in the plot, and I love how the artwork incorporates them.
I wish I could give this book 10 stars, and I look forward with extreme eagerness for the next books in the series!
Update: I forgot to mention how humorous the writing is! There is a lot of witty dialogue, funny aside comments to the reader, a jovial and charming solicitor, and these crazy ducks that terrorize the streets. It’s hilarious and wonderful!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
October 4, 2020
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
In How to get away with Myrtle (book 2 of the series), Myrtle and her governess and great aunt are going by train to a holiday destination by the sea. When on board the train a sudden disappearance of an expensive tiara sends Myrtle on another mystery. Not long after the tiara goes missing there is a murder and Myrtle gets thrust into discovering both crimes. When her aunt is arrested Myrtle knows she must do all she can to prove her innocence.
This book was yet again a book I couldn't put down. I did guess who the thief was about half way through but didn't piece other pieces of the puzzle together until the end.
This is a great adventure and mystery series that I cannot wait to read more of!
In How to get away with Myrtle (book 2 of the series), Myrtle and her governess and great aunt are going by train to a holiday destination by the sea. When on board the train a sudden disappearance of an expensive tiara sends Myrtle on another mystery. Not long after the tiara goes missing there is a murder and Myrtle gets thrust into discovering both crimes. When her aunt is arrested Myrtle knows she must do all she can to prove her innocence.
This book was yet again a book I couldn't put down. I did guess who the thief was about half way through but didn't piece other pieces of the puzzle together until the end.
This is a great adventure and mystery series that I cannot wait to read more of!
November 7, 2020
I enjoyed the first Myrtle book, but this sequel was even better. Since the series world-building and early character development were out of the way, this book could be faster-paced, and it has a delightful twisty mystery. Even though this is a great book for its target middle grade readers, this will also appeal to teenagers and adults who are interested in historic mysteries and strong, iconoclastic female protagonists.
This book has everything. The setting is wonderfully vivid, and once again, the story provides convincing reasons for a twelve-year-old girl to get involved in a criminal investigation. I also appreciate how Myrtle, her aunt, and Miss Judson discuss the previous events, and are on their seaside holiday because the adults in Myrtle's life want to distract her from the recent murder that she solved. Books like these can often stretch credulity by putting their characters into similar situations again and again without dealing with the logistics of this, but this book makes it convincing.
The cast of characters is engaging and memorable, and even though I was able to accurately predict some aspects of the ending, other twists took me completely by surprise, and the main subplot mystery was also top-notch, providing a separate mystery thread while also tying into the main story. It fascinated me to see how well the author was able to place her red herrings, weave her mystery, and make person after person seem totally suspicious. This is very well-crafted, and the pacing is excellent. I read this over two nights, and didn't want to tear myself away.
The historical time period is also well-researched and convincing, and the author's inclusion of dialect worked well because it was both accurate and consistent, which are both difficult things to achieve. It gave a sense of the time and place without overwhelming the dialogue or distracting me. The author also writes with a strong awareness of what it was like for a Young Lady of Quality to live in a world that expected her to be prim, proper, and sheltered from all things exciting, interesting, or unpleasant. This book delved into these themes even more than the first, but I won't go into detail about this, because it would give away aspects of the story.
Myrtle is an excellent heroine, and this book is wonderful. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries, regardless of their age, and will eagerly look forward to new installments. There is no release date for the third book yet, but according to the back of this book, it shall be entitled Cold Blooded Myrtle. I'm sure it will be another fantastic mystery novel to look forward to. In the meantime, if someone has enjoyed this and is looking for a read-alike, I would recommend the Murder Most Unladylike series by Robin Stevens, and Julie Berry's The Scandalous Sisterhood of Prickwillow Place.
I received a temporary digital copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book has everything. The setting is wonderfully vivid, and once again, the story provides convincing reasons for a twelve-year-old girl to get involved in a criminal investigation. I also appreciate how Myrtle, her aunt, and Miss Judson discuss the previous events, and are on their seaside holiday because the adults in Myrtle's life want to distract her from the recent murder that she solved. Books like these can often stretch credulity by putting their characters into similar situations again and again without dealing with the logistics of this, but this book makes it convincing.
The cast of characters is engaging and memorable, and even though I was able to accurately predict some aspects of the ending, other twists took me completely by surprise, and the main subplot mystery was also top-notch, providing a separate mystery thread while also tying into the main story. It fascinated me to see how well the author was able to place her red herrings, weave her mystery, and make person after person seem totally suspicious. This is very well-crafted, and the pacing is excellent. I read this over two nights, and didn't want to tear myself away.
The historical time period is also well-researched and convincing, and the author's inclusion of dialect worked well because it was both accurate and consistent, which are both difficult things to achieve. It gave a sense of the time and place without overwhelming the dialogue or distracting me. The author also writes with a strong awareness of what it was like for a Young Lady of Quality to live in a world that expected her to be prim, proper, and sheltered from all things exciting, interesting, or unpleasant. This book delved into these themes even more than the first, but I won't go into detail about this, because it would give away aspects of the story.
Myrtle is an excellent heroine, and this book is wonderful. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries, regardless of their age, and will eagerly look forward to new installments. There is no release date for the third book yet, but according to the back of this book, it shall be entitled Cold Blooded Myrtle. I'm sure it will be another fantastic mystery novel to look forward to. In the meantime, if someone has enjoyed this and is looking for a read-alike, I would recommend the Murder Most Unladylike series by Robin Stevens, and Julie Berry's The Scandalous Sisterhood of Prickwillow Place.
I received a temporary digital copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2023
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
Myrtle is on the case in another great mystery! Myrtle is traveling with her Aunt Helena rather reluctantly and it is really no surprise that things don’t go as planned. First, there is a jewel theft which is followed up by a murder. Myrtle is determined to get to the bottom of things in this surprisingly complex mystery. Myrtle and her governess, Miss Judson, definitely have their work cut out for them in this installment.
Myrtle is a fantastic character and I love the fact that the adults in her life are supportive and encouraging. Her Aunt Helena does have some pretty strong opinions about how a young lady should behave but it is evident just how much she really cares for Myrtle. This 12-year-old’s investigative skills are top notch and I am pretty sure that this crime would not have been solved if it were up to the adults in positions of power.
I listened to the audiobook and thought that the narrator did a fabulous job with the series. Bethan Rose Young does a wonderful job of bringing Myrtle and the rest of the cast to life. I am certain that her narration only added to my enjoyment of this story. I do recommend this delightful series to both middle-grade readers and adults. I cannot wait to read the next book!
I received a review copy of this book from Algonquin Young Readers.
Myrtle is on the case in another great mystery! Myrtle is traveling with her Aunt Helena rather reluctantly and it is really no surprise that things don’t go as planned. First, there is a jewel theft which is followed up by a murder. Myrtle is determined to get to the bottom of things in this surprisingly complex mystery. Myrtle and her governess, Miss Judson, definitely have their work cut out for them in this installment.
Myrtle is a fantastic character and I love the fact that the adults in her life are supportive and encouraging. Her Aunt Helena does have some pretty strong opinions about how a young lady should behave but it is evident just how much she really cares for Myrtle. This 12-year-old’s investigative skills are top notch and I am pretty sure that this crime would not have been solved if it were up to the adults in positions of power.
I listened to the audiobook and thought that the narrator did a fabulous job with the series. Bethan Rose Young does a wonderful job of bringing Myrtle and the rest of the cast to life. I am certain that her narration only added to my enjoyment of this story. I do recommend this delightful series to both middle-grade readers and adults. I cannot wait to read the next book!
I received a review copy of this book from Algonquin Young Readers.
April 5, 2024
➳ 4 ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚
i really enjoyed this!! despite taking me nearly a month to finish (which I promise was due to reading multiple books at once, not for lack of enjoyment) i actually had so much fun with this book!!
the first one was not my favorite but either I’m getting used to the author’s writing style or she stepped up her game for this one or something because this was so good! i loved the train setting and the mystery was just 🤌 the writing is so witty and i love myrtle, she’s practically me as a kid. like does it really get better than middle grade historical murder mysteries? i think not
overall I’d highly recommend, if you like murder most unladylike or the sinclair’s mysteries, i think you’ll enjoy this series 🫶✨🩷
୧ ‧₊˚ 🍓 ⋅ ☆
i really enjoyed this!! despite taking me nearly a month to finish (which I promise was due to reading multiple books at once, not for lack of enjoyment) i actually had so much fun with this book!!
the first one was not my favorite but either I’m getting used to the author’s writing style or she stepped up her game for this one or something because this was so good! i loved the train setting and the mystery was just 🤌 the writing is so witty and i love myrtle, she’s practically me as a kid. like does it really get better than middle grade historical murder mysteries? i think not
overall I’d highly recommend, if you like murder most unladylike or the sinclair’s mysteries, i think you’ll enjoy this series 🫶✨🩷
୧ ‧₊˚ 🍓 ⋅ ☆
October 2, 2020
In Volume Two, what starts as Myrtle Hardcastle getting to assist "a real Investigator in the search for a jewel thief!" quickly escalates into Myrtle Hardcastle attempting to solve the crime of a murder!
In this story, Myrtle, Miss Judson (governess), and Aunt Helena are heading down the train tracks to go on holiday. Even Peony the cat has gotten packed into the luggage, ready for some relaxation and vacation. Suffice it to say, by chapter 5, the situation becomes Extremely Interesting. When the police handcuffs come out, they're being slapped onto the wrists of one of Myrtle's own inner circle. Gasp!
The larger-than-life settings and atmosphere, alongside the immensely colorful characters, make the story jump to life in my head like a movie. It will capture the attention of even the most reluctant readers out there.
Myrtle's life seems to me that it must be similar to a young Agatha Christie's (fictionalized) life. The other girls back home don't call her "Morbid Myrtle" for nothing.
Many times sprinkled throughout the book I'll just happen to find a wonderful turn of phrase that will make me simply stop and smile (both inwardly and outwardly) at the wittiness of it... and it keeps happening, extending my pleasure of the story itself.
For fans of Agatha Christie, Sherlock Holmes, and Flavia de Luce. Ages 9 to Adult (it has such an amazing and interesting plot, anyone could enjoy it.)
In this story, Myrtle, Miss Judson (governess), and Aunt Helena are heading down the train tracks to go on holiday. Even Peony the cat has gotten packed into the luggage, ready for some relaxation and vacation. Suffice it to say, by chapter 5, the situation becomes Extremely Interesting. When the police handcuffs come out, they're being slapped onto the wrists of one of Myrtle's own inner circle. Gasp!
The larger-than-life settings and atmosphere, alongside the immensely colorful characters, make the story jump to life in my head like a movie. It will capture the attention of even the most reluctant readers out there.
Myrtle's life seems to me that it must be similar to a young Agatha Christie's (fictionalized) life. The other girls back home don't call her "Morbid Myrtle" for nothing.
Many times sprinkled throughout the book I'll just happen to find a wonderful turn of phrase that will make me simply stop and smile (both inwardly and outwardly) at the wittiness of it... and it keeps happening, extending my pleasure of the story itself.
For fans of Agatha Christie, Sherlock Holmes, and Flavia de Luce. Ages 9 to Adult (it has such an amazing and interesting plot, anyone could enjoy it.)
April 15, 2022
Das Buch ist sehr gut geschrieben, sodass man es nicht aus der Hand legen kann.
Der erste Band war schon nicht schlecht, aber dieser hier hat mir noch ein wenig besser gefallen!
Man trifft hier wieder auf Miss Judson, Myrtle's Gouvernante, selbstverständlich Myrtle und diesmal sind noch Myrtle's Tante Helena dabei und einige andere. Myrtle's Vater ist auf Konferenz-Reise in Paris. Und weil ihr Vater in Paris ist, soll Myrtle mit ihrer Gouvernante und ihrer Tante in den Urlaub.
Auf der Zugfahrt lernt Myrtle eine Versicherungsdetektivin kennen. Diese ist aufgrund einer Tiara mit an Board! Dann verschwindet die Tiara, wärend diese vom Zugeigentümer getragen wird. Nach einer Frühstückseinladung der Detektivin wird Myrtle nervös, da diese nicht erscheint.
Beim eintreffen im Ferienort und nach betreten des Gepäckwaggons wird klar, warum. Myrtle findet die Detektivin, mit einer Schere im Rücken, tot auf.
Nun beginnen die Ermittlungen, aber Tante Helena setzt alles daran, dass Myrtle sich nicht reinhängt! Aber, ich krieg es irgendwie nicht auf die Kette!, was am Ende herauskommt, ist schon sehr interessant...
Ich kann diese Reihe allen Liebhabern von #FlaviadeLuce, #WellsundWong und auch #CosyCrime Lesern empfehlen!
Der erste Band war schon nicht schlecht, aber dieser hier hat mir noch ein wenig besser gefallen!
Man trifft hier wieder auf Miss Judson, Myrtle's Gouvernante, selbstverständlich Myrtle und diesmal sind noch Myrtle's Tante Helena dabei und einige andere. Myrtle's Vater ist auf Konferenz-Reise in Paris. Und weil ihr Vater in Paris ist, soll Myrtle mit ihrer Gouvernante und ihrer Tante in den Urlaub.
Auf der Zugfahrt lernt Myrtle eine Versicherungsdetektivin kennen. Diese ist aufgrund einer Tiara mit an Board! Dann verschwindet die Tiara, wärend diese vom Zugeigentümer getragen wird. Nach einer Frühstückseinladung der Detektivin wird Myrtle nervös, da diese nicht erscheint.
Beim eintreffen im Ferienort und nach betreten des Gepäckwaggons wird klar, warum. Myrtle findet die Detektivin, mit einer Schere im Rücken, tot auf.
Nun beginnen die Ermittlungen, aber Tante Helena setzt alles daran, dass Myrtle sich nicht reinhängt! Aber, ich krieg es irgendwie nicht auf die Kette!, was am Ende herauskommt, ist schon sehr interessant...
Ich kann diese Reihe allen Liebhabern von #FlaviadeLuce, #WellsundWong und auch #CosyCrime Lesern empfehlen!
November 16, 2020
In How to Get Away with Myrtle, while on a train headed to a vacation she doesn't want to participate in, Myrtle finds herself surrounded with the mysteries of a jewel theft and a murder! And her Aunt Helena is somehow involved! She makes it her mission to uncover the truth.
Myrtle is the ultimate combination of well mannered and willing to bend the rules. Her dialogue with herself and the other characters is sharp and witty while never being unkind. Aiming to find truth, Myrtle has to deal with some difficult realities along the way. But she always comes around to handling them with logic and grace.
Bethan Rose Young's narration is excellent and she deserves some kind of award for voicing Peony the Cat and her various exclamations. I also loved how the footnotes from Myrtle about different items were put into the story with the perfect inflection.
Myrtle is the ultimate combination of well mannered and willing to bend the rules. Her dialogue with herself and the other characters is sharp and witty while never being unkind. Aiming to find truth, Myrtle has to deal with some difficult realities along the way. But she always comes around to handling them with logic and grace.
Bethan Rose Young's narration is excellent and she deserves some kind of award for voicing Peony the Cat and her various exclamations. I also loved how the footnotes from Myrtle about different items were put into the story with the perfect inflection.
January 16, 2024
Nachdem sie den Mord an ihrer Nachbarin aufgeklärt hat, wird Myrtle zu einem Urlaub mit ihrer Großtante Helena verdonnert. Wieder an ihrer Seite: Gouvernante Miss Judson und Peony. Doch bereits auf der Zugfahrt wird kostbarer Schmuck gestohlen und eine Frau ermordet. Myrtles Ermittlerinstinkt ist geweckt und weder Tante Helena noch Miss Judson können sie aufhalten.
Die Charaktere sind mir richtig ans Herz gewachsen und den humorvollen Schreibstil finde ich ganz wunderbar. Auch die Ermittlungen, der Ort Fairhaven, seine Bewohner und die ganzen Hintergründe sind spannend. Die Auflösung hat mich nicht ganz überrascht, aber sie ist gut gemacht und nachvollziehbar.
Die Serie entwickelt sich mehr und mehr zu einer meiner liebsten Kinderkrimiserien.
Die Charaktere sind mir richtig ans Herz gewachsen und den humorvollen Schreibstil finde ich ganz wunderbar. Auch die Ermittlungen, der Ort Fairhaven, seine Bewohner und die ganzen Hintergründe sind spannend. Die Auflösung hat mich nicht ganz überrascht, aber sie ist gut gemacht und nachvollziehbar.
Die Serie entwickelt sich mehr und mehr zu einer meiner liebsten Kinderkrimiserien.
February 1, 2021
I'm going to repeat all the former comments before me, of "wonderful book", and, "the plot was amazingly good!" because they are 100% true.
Sherlock and Agatha Christy fans can find these books the perfect "breaking in" for their children's journey in mystery's, or just their own wonderful late night reading.
Why is no one mentioning Blakely, though? Wasn't he superb?! And the murderous ducks!!
Sherlock and Agatha Christy fans can find these books the perfect "breaking in" for their children's journey in mystery's, or just their own wonderful late night reading.
Why is no one mentioning Blakely, though? Wasn't he superb?! And the murderous ducks!!
August 12, 2020
I would have loved this as a kid! With such a sassy, smart, and determined heroine and Lemony Snicket vibes, I couldn't ask for anything more. Myrtle is an inspiration to young girls everywhere and what adventures she finds herself on! Can't wait for the next one.
November 13, 2020
I love Myrtle!! The second in the series does not disappoint. Elizabeth Bunce continues to write intriguing characters who draw in the reader.
Even though this is categorized as young reader, I think anyone who loves Alan Bradley's Flavia series will find a similar enjoyment.
Even though this is categorized as young reader, I think anyone who loves Alan Bradley's Flavia series will find a similar enjoyment.
September 28, 2023
This is such a great series and I am so glad I took a chance on it - I cannot wait for the next one!! Myrtle is such a fun young sleuth and I can see tons of kids just falling in love with her. ♥
July 10, 2020
Thank you to Edelweiss+ to have given me a free arc for an honest Review
I got a lot of the orientexpress and Sherlock holmes murder mystery vibes from this, but written in a juvenile style. This is the second book about Myrtle and The first one will be realesed on the same date as this one so i havent had the chance to read it yet. But I loved this one. Im not saying that considering i was given a free arc on this book. Im a very picky reader, ESPECIALLY when i hear someone talk about Sherlock holmes.
But i found this to be very witty and funny. Myrtle had a way of making things intresting and a way to explain the surrounding that made me want to read more. I also loved that it was set in the victorian time and that she, as a lady, wasnt allowed to have a job or an intrest in murder mysteries.
I dont know what i would do if i was only allowed to be a good looking piece in a room. I was made to be pretty like a doll but not speak and not work. It would sound like the most boring life ever. Myrtle do what she truly wants and what she is passionet about even if she sometimes takes a step back to make others in her surrounding happier.
I could recommend this book to adults just as much as Children. I sat smiling through most of the book and i found it very entertaining and not at all childish.
At this Point i want to read more about myrtle and will make sure to get my hands on the other book.
Read more at: https://elinsera.com/2020/07/10/how-t...
I got a lot of the orientexpress and Sherlock holmes murder mystery vibes from this, but written in a juvenile style. This is the second book about Myrtle and The first one will be realesed on the same date as this one so i havent had the chance to read it yet. But I loved this one. Im not saying that considering i was given a free arc on this book. Im a very picky reader, ESPECIALLY when i hear someone talk about Sherlock holmes.
But i found this to be very witty and funny. Myrtle had a way of making things intresting and a way to explain the surrounding that made me want to read more. I also loved that it was set in the victorian time and that she, as a lady, wasnt allowed to have a job or an intrest in murder mysteries.
I dont know what i would do if i was only allowed to be a good looking piece in a room. I was made to be pretty like a doll but not speak and not work. It would sound like the most boring life ever. Myrtle do what she truly wants and what she is passionet about even if she sometimes takes a step back to make others in her surrounding happier.
I could recommend this book to adults just as much as Children. I sat smiling through most of the book and i found it very entertaining and not at all childish.
At this Point i want to read more about myrtle and will make sure to get my hands on the other book.
Read more at: https://elinsera.com/2020/07/10/how-t...
September 24, 2020
A delightful read, like Murder on the Orient Express for twelve year olds. Funny, smartly written, perfectly paced and craftily full of well placed clues.
“He gave me a familiar look. ‘Anybody ever tell you you’re morbid?’
I almost smiled. ‘Frequently.’”
Just the right amount of morbid fascination, Victorian science and delightful eloquence makes Myrtle a loveable protagonist.
“He gave me a familiar look. ‘Anybody ever tell you you’re morbid?’
I almost smiled. ‘Frequently.’”
Just the right amount of morbid fascination, Victorian science and delightful eloquence makes Myrtle a loveable protagonist.
December 25, 2020
Just as delightful as the first book. I cannot wait for the next one!!
December 31, 2020
This was so much fun!! I am so glad there will be a third book in the series.
August 2, 2021
What an absolute delight. Simply splendid.
June 13, 2022
My daughter and I are really enjoying this series so far!
November 29, 2020
Book: How to Get Away with Myrtle
Author: Elizabeth C. Bunce
Rating: 4 Out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank the publisher, Algonquin Young Readers, for sending me an ARC.
I have really enjoyed reading the first two books in the Myrtle Hardcastle series. I like that this is middle grade, but also has a dark undertone to it. We have a murder, a girl who doesn’t follow social rules, and a vacation. What more could you want? Let’s add into the mix some great characters and writing that makes it hard to away from this book. We have all of the makings of a great book. Don’t let the fact that this is middle grade stop you from picking this one up.
I love the character bonds that we have here. I love Myrtle. I like that she will do anything to get the case solved, is smart, and really cares about those around her. She uses her wit to solve the case and isn’t afraid to ask the hard questions. Sometimes it is hard to remember that she is only twelve. What I really like is what she will do for people who find themselves in hard situations-even if it looks like they have actually done what they are being accused of. She is the one who can look at a situation and see what others don’t see or may have missed. She wants to bring justice to the right people and isn’t going to give up until it has been done. She also goes against society’s roles; she doesn’t let society constrict her and treat her like she is breakable. She proves society wrong in all of the situations that she finds herself in.
The writing is want actually hooks me the most about this series. The way that everything is woven together and the little hints that we get throughout the book will just make it vert difficult to put down. You will find yourself trying to figure out who committed the murder and why. This, of course, sends us on an adventure with Myrtle and Miss. Judson as they try to figure out the who and why. We get to travel across this seaside resort town looking for murder clues. It’s great and fun to get to experience the case with the characters and solve it right along with them.
This is second book in the series, but you don’t have to read it before the first. Characters do make appearances from the first book, but this is a completely different plot.
Anyway, this title is out now, so if you want to read a quick mystery book, then pick this one up.
Youtube: https://youtu.be/qK2u-lH-Ncw
Author: Elizabeth C. Bunce
Rating: 4 Out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank the publisher, Algonquin Young Readers, for sending me an ARC.
I have really enjoyed reading the first two books in the Myrtle Hardcastle series. I like that this is middle grade, but also has a dark undertone to it. We have a murder, a girl who doesn’t follow social rules, and a vacation. What more could you want? Let’s add into the mix some great characters and writing that makes it hard to away from this book. We have all of the makings of a great book. Don’t let the fact that this is middle grade stop you from picking this one up.
I love the character bonds that we have here. I love Myrtle. I like that she will do anything to get the case solved, is smart, and really cares about those around her. She uses her wit to solve the case and isn’t afraid to ask the hard questions. Sometimes it is hard to remember that she is only twelve. What I really like is what she will do for people who find themselves in hard situations-even if it looks like they have actually done what they are being accused of. She is the one who can look at a situation and see what others don’t see or may have missed. She wants to bring justice to the right people and isn’t going to give up until it has been done. She also goes against society’s roles; she doesn’t let society constrict her and treat her like she is breakable. She proves society wrong in all of the situations that she finds herself in.
The writing is want actually hooks me the most about this series. The way that everything is woven together and the little hints that we get throughout the book will just make it vert difficult to put down. You will find yourself trying to figure out who committed the murder and why. This, of course, sends us on an adventure with Myrtle and Miss. Judson as they try to figure out the who and why. We get to travel across this seaside resort town looking for murder clues. It’s great and fun to get to experience the case with the characters and solve it right along with them.
This is second book in the series, but you don’t have to read it before the first. Characters do make appearances from the first book, but this is a completely different plot.
Anyway, this title is out now, so if you want to read a quick mystery book, then pick this one up.
Youtube: https://youtu.be/qK2u-lH-Ncw
April 30, 2025
Myrtle muss in Urlaub fahren, dabei hat sie überhaupt keine Lust auf den Trip an die Küste. Da nützt es auch nichts, dass sie mit dem höchst luxuriösen "Empress Express" reisen und in einem vornehmen neuen Hotel absteigen wird. Viel lieber wäre sie ihrem Vater zu der kriminologischen Konferenz gefolgt, die er besucht, doch der findet nach Myrtles letztem Abenteuer, dass sie schon viel zu viel mit Mordfällen und Ermittlungen in Berührung gekommen ist.
Zähneknirschend fügt sich Myrtle in ihr Schicksal und packt zumindest ihre Detektivutensilien und Bücher ins große Reisegepäck. Ihre Gouvernante Miss Judson drückt das eine oder andere Auge zu, während Myrtles andere Reisebegleiterin vermutlich not amused wäre, wenn sie das wüsste. Die gestrenge Tante Helena höchstpersönlich ist nämlich mit an Bord, was Myrtle die Aussicht auf die Reise endgültig vermiest.
Aber dass ein wertvolles Diadem als kostbare Leihgabe an Bord ist (Sir Quentin, dem Betreiber des Luxuszuges, ist nichts zu aufwendig, um seinen Reichtum zur Schau zu stellen) und von Mrs. Bloom, einer wahrhaftigen Versicherungsdetektivin, bewacht wird, fasziniert die Nachwuchsermittlerin dann doch ganz schön. Noch interessanter wird es, als das glanzvolle Stück auf spektakuläre Weise verschwindet, gefolgt von weiteren seltsamen Vorfällen. Und bei der Ankunft im aufstrebenden Seebad Fairhaven kommt es ganz dicke: Mrs. Bloom wird ermordet im Gepäckwaggon aufgefunden und der Verdacht fällt anhand der Indizien ausgerechnet auf die Person, mit der Myrtle nie gerechnet hätte.
Somit wird der Zwangsurlaub doch noch ganz schön aufregend und sogar gefährlich für unsere junge Spürnase, aber der Humor, der mir schon im ersten Band so gut gefallen hat, kommt auch nicht zu kurz. Angefangen damit, dass das pompös beworbene Fairhaven bei genauerem Hinsehen nicht wirklich hält, was es verspricht. Die wunderbar bissigen Formulierungen und witzigen Fußnoten tun noch ihr Übriges dazu, dass es immer wieder was zu kichern gibt beim Lesen, ebenso die treffenden Beschreibungen von Menschen, Tieren und Örtlichkeiten.
Die Krimihandlung konnte auch überzeugen, mit einigen Wendungen auf dem Weg zum überraschenden Ende. Ein feiner, amüsanter und spannender Krimispaß für Jugendliche und Erwachsene und zum Glück erst der zweite Band in der Reihe, so dass ich mich nun auf Teil 3 vorfreue.
Zähneknirschend fügt sich Myrtle in ihr Schicksal und packt zumindest ihre Detektivutensilien und Bücher ins große Reisegepäck. Ihre Gouvernante Miss Judson drückt das eine oder andere Auge zu, während Myrtles andere Reisebegleiterin vermutlich not amused wäre, wenn sie das wüsste. Die gestrenge Tante Helena höchstpersönlich ist nämlich mit an Bord, was Myrtle die Aussicht auf die Reise endgültig vermiest.
Aber dass ein wertvolles Diadem als kostbare Leihgabe an Bord ist (Sir Quentin, dem Betreiber des Luxuszuges, ist nichts zu aufwendig, um seinen Reichtum zur Schau zu stellen) und von Mrs. Bloom, einer wahrhaftigen Versicherungsdetektivin, bewacht wird, fasziniert die Nachwuchsermittlerin dann doch ganz schön. Noch interessanter wird es, als das glanzvolle Stück auf spektakuläre Weise verschwindet, gefolgt von weiteren seltsamen Vorfällen. Und bei der Ankunft im aufstrebenden Seebad Fairhaven kommt es ganz dicke: Mrs. Bloom wird ermordet im Gepäckwaggon aufgefunden und der Verdacht fällt anhand der Indizien ausgerechnet auf die Person, mit der Myrtle nie gerechnet hätte.
Somit wird der Zwangsurlaub doch noch ganz schön aufregend und sogar gefährlich für unsere junge Spürnase, aber der Humor, der mir schon im ersten Band so gut gefallen hat, kommt auch nicht zu kurz. Angefangen damit, dass das pompös beworbene Fairhaven bei genauerem Hinsehen nicht wirklich hält, was es verspricht. Die wunderbar bissigen Formulierungen und witzigen Fußnoten tun noch ihr Übriges dazu, dass es immer wieder was zu kichern gibt beim Lesen, ebenso die treffenden Beschreibungen von Menschen, Tieren und Örtlichkeiten.
Die Krimihandlung konnte auch überzeugen, mit einigen Wendungen auf dem Weg zum überraschenden Ende. Ein feiner, amüsanter und spannender Krimispaß für Jugendliche und Erwachsene und zum Glück erst der zweite Band in der Reihe, so dass ich mich nun auf Teil 3 vorfreue.
April 27, 2022
A fun sequel in the Myrtle Hardcastle series, this picks up not too long after the first book and finds Myrtle and her governess on a train headed for the seaside. Within just a few days, there's a theft and a murder and Myrtle is on the case!
I liked the setting of the train and wish the book had stayed there longer. When everyone is in an enclosed space, it gives extra tension and excitement, knowing that someone aboard is the criminal. I did enjoy Myrtle meeting a woman with a career in investigation. It's good for her to see that even in her time period, women can do jobs that men do and stand up for themselves to anyone who tells them otherwise.
The mystery was a bit confusing because there were a lot of new characters aboard the train and I struggled to keep some of them straight. I did like that the ending was a bit open so hopefully we'll explore it further in the next installment.
I liked the setting of the train and wish the book had stayed there longer. When everyone is in an enclosed space, it gives extra tension and excitement, knowing that someone aboard is the criminal. I did enjoy Myrtle meeting a woman with a career in investigation. It's good for her to see that even in her time period, women can do jobs that men do and stand up for themselves to anyone who tells them otherwise.
The mystery was a bit confusing because there were a lot of new characters aboard the train and I struggled to keep some of them straight. I did like that the ending was a bit open so hopefully we'll explore it further in the next installment.
March 23, 2022
In the aftermath of Bk1, Myrtle is packed off for a seaside vacation with Aunt Helen and the inimitable Ms. Judson. The train is posh, and the company is varied. And Myrtle is onhand when a murder is discovered.
Jeweled tiaras and plein air paining. Smuggled cats and insurance agents. Newfangled photography and ridiculous swimwear. A clever mystery that has solidified Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries as one of my favorite series. Neatly done!
Jeweled tiaras and plein air paining. Smuggled cats and insurance agents. Newfangled photography and ridiculous swimwear. A clever mystery that has solidified Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries as one of my favorite series. Neatly done!
June 30, 2022
After Myrtle solved a mystery at home, her father thinks she should have a peaceful rest under the care of her strict great aunt Helena and her (usually understanding) governess. The reluctant Myrtle boards an excursion train to the seaside--how humdrum!--only to meet a woman insurance investigator who seems to respect her opinions when a valuable tiara is stolen. Alas, the investigator is found dead the next morning, and the railroad police, who are in charge of the case, are not interested in little girls. Not that a little thing like that, or even her governess' pleas to stay out of the case, can keep Myrtle out of the investigation, or out of trouble.
July 25, 2025
Myrtle's Vacay
The title of How to Get Away with Myrtle, the second book in Elizabeth C. Bunce's Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series, is, like all the titles in the series, a pun. The double entendre in this case involves two meanings of "get away": to take a vacation, and to escape punishment for a crime. Neither of these things actually happens. Myrtle's father, Arthur Hardcastle and aunt, Helena Hardcastle, in their unending yet futile quest to change Myrtle into something that vaguely resembles a normal 12-year-old Young Lady of Quality, have arranged for Myrtle and her governess, the estimable Miss Judson, to take a seaside holiday. Aunt Helena, who is reminiscent of Bertie Wooster's Aunt Agatha in her relentless disapproval of the younger sprout, alas, accompanies them. (Myrtle's father, in Paris for a criminology conference, does not appear.) The holiday is a package deal arranged with one Sir Quentin Ballingall, an old friend of Aunt Helena's, who runs an excursion company.
Aunt Helena, Miss Judson, Myrtle, and Sir Quentin board the train. Almost immediately Sir Quentin is challenged by Mrs Bloom, an investigator for Albion Casualty Insurance, who accuses Sir Quentin of breaching his contract with Albion, and insists on accompanying the excursion. Myrtle is immediately smitten with Mrs Bloom, a Real Investigator, which Myrtle herself hopes one day to become. Unfortunately, before Myrtle can get to know her, Mrs Bloom disappears during the train trip. On arrival in Fairhaven Myrtle has the shock of discovering Mrs Bloom's body in the baggage car stabbed in the back with a pair of shears.
Well, this kind of spoils the vacation vibe. Myrtle of course kicks into gear, attempting to investigate the murder, ineffectually restrained by Miss Judson, who thinks the investigation should be left to the competent authorities. Myrtle is having none of it, since the competent authorities are, in point of fact, not noticeably competent.
This was a lot of fun. I was pleased that, in addition to our old friend Miss Judson and frenemy Aunt Helena, Peony the cat (who appears to have adopted Myrtle) and the comical but startlingly competent law clerk Robert Blakeney, who continues to refer to Myrtle as Stephen, are among those present. Myrtle's story is sprinkled with Pratchettesque footnotes.
It's a lot of fun. I will continue with the series.
Blog review.
The title of How to Get Away with Myrtle, the second book in Elizabeth C. Bunce's Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series, is, like all the titles in the series, a pun. The double entendre in this case involves two meanings of "get away": to take a vacation, and to escape punishment for a crime. Neither of these things actually happens. Myrtle's father, Arthur Hardcastle and aunt, Helena Hardcastle, in their unending yet futile quest to change Myrtle into something that vaguely resembles a normal 12-year-old Young Lady of Quality, have arranged for Myrtle and her governess, the estimable Miss Judson, to take a seaside holiday. Aunt Helena, who is reminiscent of Bertie Wooster's Aunt Agatha in her relentless disapproval of the younger sprout, alas, accompanies them. (Myrtle's father, in Paris for a criminology conference, does not appear.) The holiday is a package deal arranged with one Sir Quentin Ballingall, an old friend of Aunt Helena's, who runs an excursion company.
Aunt Helena, Miss Judson, Myrtle, and Sir Quentin board the train. Almost immediately Sir Quentin is challenged by Mrs Bloom, an investigator for Albion Casualty Insurance, who accuses Sir Quentin of breaching his contract with Albion, and insists on accompanying the excursion. Myrtle is immediately smitten with Mrs Bloom, a Real Investigator, which Myrtle herself hopes one day to become. Unfortunately, before Myrtle can get to know her, Mrs Bloom disappears during the train trip. On arrival in Fairhaven Myrtle has the shock of discovering Mrs Bloom's body in the baggage car stabbed in the back with a pair of shears.
Well, this kind of spoils the vacation vibe. Myrtle of course kicks into gear, attempting to investigate the murder, ineffectually restrained by Miss Judson, who thinks the investigation should be left to the competent authorities. Myrtle is having none of it, since the competent authorities are, in point of fact, not noticeably competent.
This was a lot of fun. I was pleased that, in addition to our old friend Miss Judson and frenemy Aunt Helena, Peony the cat (who appears to have adopted Myrtle) and the comical but startlingly competent law clerk Robert Blakeney, who continues to refer to Myrtle as Stephen, are among those present. Myrtle's story is sprinkled with Pratchettesque footnotes.
It's a lot of fun. I will continue with the series.
Blog review.
October 4, 2020
First off, these Myrtle Hardcastle books are wonderful to read one after the other – the two first books would create the perfect start to a series for any young reader. While “Premeditated Myrtle” had a Sherlock Holmes vibe, this book is all about the Agatha Christie inspiration.
The second book opens with Myrtle going on holiday with her aunt (whom she despises) and her beloved governess (a relationship that just warms my heart). Myrtle’s father suggests the trip in order to get away from the stress of the crime that Myrtle just got finished solving in the first book. The three of them begin their adventure with a train ride, and the very first night a famous tiara is stolen in the middle of the journey. At first, I was discouraged that this mystery wouldn’t have any real consequences or true drama, but then one of the train’s passengers ends up murdered, and Myrtle becomes determined to solve both of the cases. A murder (while a tad violent for a middle-grade book) actually makes the reader care more about the high stakes of the mystery. With so many passengers on the train, there are tons of suspects (much in the vein of Murder on the Orient Express).
It was a tad confusing in the beginning to keep the characters and their backstories straight but because we’re already familiar with Myrtle and a few other characters, there was still a great flow to the story. I also love how Myrtle tries so hard to be a “Young Lady of Quality” and avoid any unladylike detective work but the mysteries keep falling right in her lap!
Since Myrtle is such a fantastic, whip-smart heroine, I think young readers will really fall in love with her. Plus, it’s an added bonus that the book is set in the 19th century, so readers might end up learning some new things about the past.
I hope there are many other books to come in this series – I can’t wait to recommend these first two Myrtle books!
*Free ARC provided by Netgalley and Algonquin Young Readers in exchange for an honest
review*
The second book opens with Myrtle going on holiday with her aunt (whom she despises) and her beloved governess (a relationship that just warms my heart). Myrtle’s father suggests the trip in order to get away from the stress of the crime that Myrtle just got finished solving in the first book. The three of them begin their adventure with a train ride, and the very first night a famous tiara is stolen in the middle of the journey. At first, I was discouraged that this mystery wouldn’t have any real consequences or true drama, but then one of the train’s passengers ends up murdered, and Myrtle becomes determined to solve both of the cases. A murder (while a tad violent for a middle-grade book) actually makes the reader care more about the high stakes of the mystery. With so many passengers on the train, there are tons of suspects (much in the vein of Murder on the Orient Express).
It was a tad confusing in the beginning to keep the characters and their backstories straight but because we’re already familiar with Myrtle and a few other characters, there was still a great flow to the story. I also love how Myrtle tries so hard to be a “Young Lady of Quality” and avoid any unladylike detective work but the mysteries keep falling right in her lap!
Since Myrtle is such a fantastic, whip-smart heroine, I think young readers will really fall in love with her. Plus, it’s an added bonus that the book is set in the 19th century, so readers might end up learning some new things about the past.
I hope there are many other books to come in this series – I can’t wait to recommend these first two Myrtle books!
*Free ARC provided by Netgalley and Algonquin Young Readers in exchange for an honest
review*
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