Death at Epsom Downs: Victorian Mysteries, Book 7

This is the 7th book in the Victorian/Edwardian mystery series and involves horse racing. The historical elements include the introduction of photography for the "photo finish" pioneered by Muybridge, the start of doping in horse racing, and Lillie Langtry, the actress and racing fan/gambler known as "Mr Jersey". Charles and Kate are at Epsom Downs so that Charles can photograph the finish of the races. When a race goes horribly wrong, Charles is asked to investigate possible doping. Amelia, Kate's maid, takes a turn at sleuthing when Kate is invited to Lily's home to discuss turning one of her books into a play. The plot thickens when a well known bookie turns up dead. This was a decent mystery, and the historical background on racing was interesting. The main characters tended to fade into the background in this one and I missed them. Hopefull, the next in the series will be more intriguing and involving.

I admit I do enjoy this series, but it is strictly a "fun" read. I agree with the other reviewers that the author(s) really make a royal hash of the British titles, alternately referring to the same character as Lord "surname" and then as Lord "first name" - yet the same person would NEVER go by both of those. Charles, as a peer, would never EVER be referred to a Lord Charles, and it would be terribly gauche to do so. A prince is never Your Majesty.These are pretty simple things that even an American like me can figure out and understand, yet the author(s) screw this up every time in book after book.However if I just grit my teeth and bear it the rest of the book is funny and informative, a "light" read, so I guess I cannot expect too much accuracy. But fun. Brain candy.

Having been invited to the races to photograph the finish, Charles is forced by the Prince of Wales to investigate a possibly doped horse caused accident. Patrick from the book with Rudyard Kipling reappears as a stable boy cum jockey. Kate is accosted by Lillie Langtrie to turn her writing into a play. The two halves of the couple are staying at different homes and seeing different angles to the case when a bookmaker is killed. The establishment is not willing to take a stand on doping to avoid scandal. Learned a lot about early horse racing. Had not at all suspected the killer

I have enjoyed reading books written by Robin Paige for many years, I used to borrow them from my public library but now I get them on my tablet. This tale was suspenseful and at times light hearted. I have always enjoyed a murder mystery which is not gory or gross.This author writes stories which are placed in the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentyth century. Robin Paige seems to get it right in describing the local color and the customs of the times. I find it very enjoyable to read cozy mysteries which take place in London, England and transports me to a different world than I live in. I am looking forward to my next "trip" with Robin. Great read. Mary-Ellen Batcho

Have thoroughly enjoyed all the books in this series and am sorry it ended. Epsom Downs gives you an excellent plot plus a very interesting look at horse racing in the early 1900s and the influence of horse doping (introduced from America). You also meet the famous Lillie Langtry, who is the "real person" in this book. I also enjoy the factual information given by the authors, after the mystery is concluded. Part of the charm of the Paige series.

Love this whole series which is why I am rereading it. This one was especially entertaining as Lilly Langtry and her escapades were in it. Kate and Charles solve several connected mysteries and then go home with Patrick their "protege" foster son.

The melding of real life characters based on the "known facts" surrounding them, great continuing characgters and well thought out plots with twists and turns the keep you interested in each book makes this an outstanding series.

I love these mysteries for several reasons: 1) I enjoy mysteries, 2) I like historical fiction, 3) They are well written and 4) I learn a lot about Victorian England. When I go to the internet to verify historical events mentioned in these Victorian Mysteries I am rarely disappointed - most of them did occur just as the author described them. I am saddened by the fact that I have almost finished reading the entire series.

this is just one of a very good series may we have more

Great book to read

Good book

The delivery was on time and the book well wrapped.The story is very slow to get going but if you stick with it you will find the story unfolds and is quite enjoyable.

Great Series, love every one