There’s something so comforting about stepping back into Highbury—especially when the familiar charm of Jane Austen’s world is paired with a deliciously twisty murder mystery. Vanessa Kelly’s Murder at Donwell Abbey brings Emma Knightley and her ever-steady husband, George, back to center stage in a story filled with family upheaval, social tension, and a mystery that unfolds with classic Regency flair. If you love clever sleuthing, beloved Austen characters, and a dash of danger tucked between ballroom scenes and drawing room gossip, this installment will easily sweep you away.
Title: Murder at Donwell Abbey
Author: Vanessa Kelly
Series: Emma Knightley Mysteries
Genre: Historical Mystery
Rating: 5 out of 5 ⭐
Disclaimer
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I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
My Thoughts:
Emma and George Knightley do it again! I adored this reimagined power couple in Murder in Highbury, but in Murder at Donwell Abbey, they shine even brighter. Emma steps deeper into her role as a Regency-era sleuth—sharp, observant, and unafraid to follow her instincts—even when those instincts place her directly in harm’s way.
The story begins with a shock: Emma’s father is marrying Miss Hetty Bates. Emma tries to welcome the excitable spinster into the family with grace, though relinquishing her role as mistress of Hartfield stirs more emotions than she expects. As engagement festivities swirl, she and George prepare to settle permanently at Donwell Abbey. But celebrations quickly turn dark when Prudence Parr, one of the Abbey’s hardworking maids, is found dead during the betrothal ball.
What first appears to be a tragic accident soon unravels into something far more sinister. Emma’s instincts tell her the pieces simply don’t fit—and once she starts pulling at threads, secrets spill from every corner of Highbury.
What makes this series shine is the relationship between Emma and George. Their banter, affection, and profound trust in one another make them irresistible to follow. George never stifles Emma’s curiosity; instead, he admires her courage while offering his own magistrate-level steadiness. Their partnership is warm, balanced, and deeply endearing—a true Regency marriage of hearts and minds.
The mystery itself is layered with clever clues, suspicious characters, and just enough misdirection to keep you on your toes. And then, as Vanessa Kelly loves to do, everything culminates in a high-stakes, breath-stealing finale. For a few pages, I genuinely feared certain characters wouldn’t make it out alive—but the resolution is both satisfying and emotionally earned.
Emma and George once again welcome readers into their world with grace, humor, and a touch of danger. I loved every moment with them and can’t wait for their next investigation.
Publisher’s Blurb:
In this latest Regency-era mystery, Jane Austen’s clever Emma Knightley navigates shocking changes in her family—while meeting her match in a deadly adversary . . .
Emma’s spirits are elevated after she and husband George Knightley host a joyful holiday celebration at the Hartfield estate. But it’s instantly a bitter January when her father makes an unexpected announcement—he and Miss Hetty Bates have decided to marry. Not only must Emma relinquish her role as mistress of the household, but also accept the reality that the excitable Miss Bates will become her stepmother . . .
More unwanted news arrives during an extravagant betrothal ball at Donwell Abbey, the grand Knightley estate where Emma and George will soon permanently reside. Nearly every villager in Highbury revels in the dazzling affair—except Emma’s hardworking lady’s maid, Prudence Parr. To Emma’s horror, Prudence is found dead, sprawled across the stones of the library terrace . . .
The woman’s tragic fall is quickly ruled a terrible accident and whispers circulate around personal troubles leading up to her untimely demise. But Emma’s instincts tell her that something far more sinister is at play. Now, Highbury’s matchmaker-turned-sleuth vows to outwit a cunning criminal before an innocent man loses his freedom—or Donwell Abbey plunges into a darker mystery . . .
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Final Thoughts:
If you’re searching for a Regency mystery that feels both cozy and clever, Murder at Donwell Abbey is a perfect choice. Vanessa Kelly blends Austen charm with a gripping investigation, giving readers the best of both worlds: romance, wit, and a delicious puzzle to solve. I’m already counting down the days until Emma and George’s next adventure!
Do you enjoy retellings or continuations of classic literary worlds—and if so, which character do you love revisiting the most?
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