This charming series of Victorian murder mysteries features mild-mannered Inspector Witherspoon of Scotland Yard and, more importantly, Mrs Jeffries, his housekeeper. A policeman’s widow herself, her quick wits allow her to nudge the Inspector in the right direction to solve the crime.

Murder strikes at a Jubilee Ball in Queen Victoria’s honour, which is also attended by Inspector Witherspoon and Mrs. Jeffries. The victim was a widely disliked member of the Hyde Park Literary Circle, where investigations into the crime open old wounds and reignite petty grievances … ‘Aghast, the inspector’s jaw dropped even farther. He couldn’t believe this. Lady Cannonberry, have you any idea what you’re saying?