Clever Spin on a Classic. Giving origin inspiration with more Character back stories. Easy flowing and quick read. Looking forward to the next one.

In the latest book in the Detection Club historical mystery series, readers join Agatha Christie and Dorothy L Sayers on the luxurious Orient Express as they travel from Paris to Constantinople for a writers’ conference in 1928. Disheartened by the release of her last book and the finalization of her divorce, Agatha hopes to enjoy the trip until her hopes are dashed by the death of a fellow guest during the dinner service -- and Dorothy is a prime suspect because she was the last person to speak to him. Dorothy’s assistant Eliza and her friend Theo must navigate the train and solve the murder before they arrive. With a unique and complicated mystery and a fantastic cast of characters, readers will love this new historical mystery novel from Kelly Oliver. The characters are brilliantly written and detailed, and the mystery itself is fascinating, and having mystery writers involved with the investigation is a fun touch. The larger storyline is also well-written, and readers will really enjoy solving the mystery alongside Eliza and Theo, who work well together and have great arcs. Fun, entertaining, and mysterious, historical mystery fans will love Kelly Oliver’s latest book and the unique yet familiar setting of the Orient Express.

I enjoy Kelly Oliver’s new series. Eliza seems more sensible than Fiona Figg. However, I hope she and Theo explore their relationship in later novels. I also need more Jane. Is there a possibility of the sisters working completely together in a future novel? (Hint, Hint Oliver).

I enjoy the real-life characters and the what ifs. I enjoy the connections with those authors and their stories that are still very beloved and well read.

Overall, I rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars.

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is not only a favorite of mine but one of the most well-known mysteries possibly ever written, so of course I was beyond excited to read Oliver’s second in series, The Case of the Body on the Orient Express. First, let me say this, I am beyond pleased that Kelly opted to use the Orient Express as the setting and inspiration and DID NOT write this story as a remake of sorts. First of all, it wouldn’t be much of a mystery for readers if she had. Second of all, it wouldn’t have fit the characters. That being said, the Orient Express served as the perfect backdrop for this new mystery. It provided the right ambiance and nostalgia for those of us that love Agatha’s original.

Moving on to the story itself. In the first Detection Club mystery, Oliver centered the story around the historical events surrounding Agatha Christie’s scandalous divorce and mysterious, 11-day disappearance. I was pleased, then, that in this book, we were let into the history of Dorothy Sayers. As a lesser-known contemporary of Christie’s, her personal story is not widely known, and I loved getting to discover it through this mystery. The book had me reading Wikipedia to learn more, and I love that in anything historical. The inclusion of Dorothy’s history also presented a different side of the mystery writer, creating a more dimensional character both for the reader and for main character Eliza Baker.

One frustration I had in this book was the relationship between Eliza and Theo. In between the first and second books, Theo makes a sudden, off-page departure which left me a little jarred coming into this second book. It felt unnatural to where the story left off, and it read more as a plot device to get characters into place for book two rather than an organic action based on Eliza and Theo’s relationship. Then, when the two characters finally meet again, it is like starting back at square one of their entanglement. I love these two characters together, I want them to be together, but it all felt contrived in this book.

The mystery in this story was both a little more in depth than in the first book as well as a tad more convoluted. With more moving parts at play, the resolution to the mysteries were not as clear cut, however, it leaves potential for a grander mystery in book three. Whether this was Oliver’s intention or not, I can’t be sure, but let’s hope it works out! I did like the mystery as it added a deeper level of intrigue, and I liked the addition of Eliza’s sister Jane into more of the actual plot.

As is always hard when reviewing a single book in a series, there were some loose ends left both in book one and book two that have not yet been resolved, but this just gives me greater anticipation for the next one and hopefully the full resolution we need!

The Case of the Body on the Orient Express" by Kelly Oliver is a gripping and clever addition to the cozy mystery genre. The novel features the sharp-witted and resourceful detective, Professor Charlotte Reid, who finds herself entangled in a murder mystery on the iconic train.

Set against the backdrop of luxurious travel, Oliver expertly combines elements of suspense, intrigue, and humor. The story kicks off when a body is discovered aboard the train, sending shockwaves through the passengers and crew. Charlotte, with her keen analytical skills and a knack for getting to the heart of the matter, becomes determined to unravel the mystery.

Oliver's writing shines with vivid descriptions of the train's opulent setting, allowing readers to feel the ambiance as they travel through scenic landscapes. The characters are well-developed, with diverse backgrounds and motivations. This depth makes the interactions and conflicts among them all the more engaging.

One of the standout aspects of the book is the clever plotting. Oliver intricately weaves together clues and red herrings, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The pacing is brisk, maintaining a sense of urgency that makes it difficult to put the book down.

Charlotte Reid is a delightful protagonist, and her journey throughout the book is both entertaining and insightful. Readers will appreciate her determination and intelligence as she navigates the various twists and turns in the plot.

Overall, "The Case of the Body on the Orient Express" is a delightful page-turner that combines classic mystery elements with a modern twist. It's perfect for fans of cozy mysteries and those looking for an engaging read filled with intrigue and charm. Highly recommended!

I read this ARC in exchange for an honest review
All thoughts and opinions are mine

This is a new author to me and the write up was intriguing

Absolutely loved this
Shades of Agatha Christie who I absolutely love

Eliza is instructed to attend a writers’ conference in Istanbul along with members of the Detection Club. She travels with Dorothy L. Sayers and Agatha Christie via the Orient Express…
The Case of the Body on the Orient Express is the second book to feature Eliza and the Detection Club including real life crime authors from the 1920s.
This book is set 2 years after the first book. Eliza hasn’t seen Theo in all that time but the pair have not stopped thinking about each other. Theo also finds himself on the Orient Express in the company of his friend Eric who is trying out the pseudonym George Orwell.
I liked the mix of real and fictional characters. However I felt that Agatha Christie should have had a more prominent role due to her association with the train! The Detection Club was quite minimal this time round which allowed Eliza and Theo's characters to flourish. There was also a tiny mention of one of the author's characters from another series that made me smile in recognition.
Classic murder mystery elements are in full flow throughout the book. The author has thoroughly researched the era as well as the real people she depicts. I enjoyed the style of writing and the focus on both Eliza and Theo so we can see their emotional turmoil as they keep their feelings for each other hidden.
The Case of the Body on the Orient Express is an enjoyable cosy historical murder mystery.

Some familiar names in the Detection Club. This cosy mystery seems somewhat familiar but also different.

Eliza and Queenie make a great team on their hunt for Lena. There are bits in this that made me laugh.

Dorothy and Agatha are also fun characters and the club seems a great thing to be a part of. Their train journey was eventful to say the least and the adventure it takes them on after keeps you guessing. Intrigued as to where they'll all end up next

The second instalment in this new series by one of my go-to authors, and I enjoyed it as much as the first, if not more! While the two novels can be read as standalone mysteries, I liked meeting familiar characters and see both them and their relationships develop.

The mystery was well plotted, as usual, and I had fun trying to work out the solution despite knowing I wouldn't!

Also, I was in Istanbul a few months ago and I saw what used to be the final station of the Orient Express. Finding it in a book while it was still fresh in my mind was a pleasant bonus!

'The Case of the Body on the Orient Express' by Kelly Oliver.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm a big fan of this author and I really enjoyed the first book in this series. This book didn't disappoint. I love that the book included a character reference to the authors other book series.
This book had plenty of suspects and I think I suspected everyone at one point. It had some really good twists and turns. If you're a fan of cozy crime, history and adventure then give this series a read.

Paris, 1928: Agatha Christie and fellow writer Dorothy L Sayers board the Orient Express, bound for Constantinople. Christie in particular is looking forward to a break from recent dispiriting events in both her work and private life – the finalisation of her divorce from her philanderous husband Archie, and the miserly reception of her latest book.
But before the duo can settle in to enjoy the luxuries of their first-class journey, their journey is derailed when a fellow guest drops dead during the dinner service. And as the last person to speak to the victim, Dorothy finds herself a prime suspect in his murder.
As the train hurtles East, Sayers’ resourceful assistant Eliza and her friend Theo must navigate a maze of suspects. But with each passing mile, the stakes rise, and when another body is discovered, their search to find the killer before they reach their destination becomes increasingly complicated.
Can Eliza and Theo stay one step ahead, crack the mystery and clear Dorothy’s name? Or will this be one journey too far for the amateur sleuths?

Thanks to NetGallery UK, the publishers and the author for letting me a read a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

I’ll be honest I was a bit skeptical going into this book, but it completely blew away my expectations. Once I started reading I didn’t want to put it down! I love a mystery and the twists and turns of the case mixed with the emotional ups and downs of the characters personal lives kept me wanting more! I look forward to more cases with Eliza and Theo!

Paris, 1928: Eliza is traveling with her employer, Dorothy L. Sayers, and the queen of crime, Agatha Christie, aboard the Orient Express bound for Constantinople. They are set to present papers at a literary conference. Christie, eager to escape the spotlight after her recent divorce and the poor reception of her latest book, looks forward to the journey. However, their luxurious first-class trip takes a dark turn when a fellow passenger drops dead during dinner. Dorothy, as the last person to speak with the victim, becomes the prime suspect. As the train speeds eastward, Eliza and her friend Theo must unravel a web of suspects. With each passing mile, the stakes grow higher, and when another body is discovered, their mission to uncover the killer before reaching their destination becomes even more urgent. Eliza and Theo must stay ahead of the game to solve the mystery.

I enjoy books that blend fiction with real-life elements and have a soft spot for the golden age of crime. That said, this book felt slightly off the mark, ending without fully resolving the mystery or providing the clever clues Christie often did. I found it hard to connect with Eliza, as she came across as moody, and the "romance" with Theo felt overly sweet. Still, it's a fast-paced and enjoyable read, with action spanning from London to Constantinople aboard the legendary Orient Express. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy in exchange for this review.

I do enjoy the concept of this series. Famous mystery writers from the Golden Age- Dorothy L Sayers and Agatha Christie this time- are part of a group called the Detection Club. Eliza, a former Met officer, is Dorothy’s secretary and is informed they are leaving for a writers convention in Istanbul and they are travelling in style on the Orient Express. Naturally there will be a murder or two and plenty of intrigue with smuggling and spies. Eliza discovered Theo is also on board but not as a passenger. The two of them are so drawn together but both dance around their feelings which does not stop Theo from being her partner in investigating.

When they reach Istanbul, Eliza’s MI5 sister Jane is at the station with their dog who just happens to be talented in tracking things down. There are lots of high shenanigans, danger and some great chases all over the place until the real bad guy is caught, not without great effort from all concerned. It is a cracking good story with kisses with history of the inclusion of real writers including George Orwell. I enjoyed the read very much and give it a hearty five purrs and two paws up.

A great and twisty read which I devoured very quickly in one day. I do love who done it's and this one kept me guessing for a very long time. Very atmospheric and exceptional. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

The Detection Club leaders are off on the train
Not anticipating a murder mystery again.
This journey will take Agatha Christie and Dorothy L Sayers away
With Eliza there to help in any way.

Taking the Orient Express from Paris they go
Meeting some others who they already know.
But not all are what the appear to be
And some they'd much rather not see!

When one such person drops down dead
Eliza is there, looking for clues at his head.
She's sure he's been poisoned so looks for clues
Ones that the police for evidence can use.

On the trail of a killer with the help of her friends
This is a twisting tale, with surprises before it ends.
Authors, musicians and detectives, too
Can uncovering the killer be what they do?

Extrapolated from historical facts and figures, too,
Developed into a story that's totally new.
A fun read with mystery and travels, too,
Involving known protagonists in something new.

For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

Favorite Quotes:

For a large woman, Dorothy L. Sayers was quick on her feet. The only things quicker than her feet were her wit and her temper.

Why would anyone pretend to be poor? She knew from experience that poverty wasn’t romantic, but an unfortunate condition to be avoided at all costs.

Didn’t people read to escape the horrors of life rather than wallow in them? Theo was all for verisimilitude, but he had to draw the line somewhere: namely, sharing a toilet with someone who hadn’t bathed since the nineteenth century.

Apparently, MI5 suspected one of the writers, probably Agatha Christie, had access to classified information. From what Eliza had seen, the mystery writers had access to nothing more classified than overactive imaginations.

Like a moth between panes of glass, he was stuck between what he was and what he wanted to be.


My Review:

I adore Kelly Oliver’s smooth and amusing writing style. I so covet her word craft. She weaves an entertaining, easy-to-follow, and engaging tale that never fails to hold my interest with her well-plotted mysteries and clever arrangements of words that put a smile on my face with her colorful descriptions and authentic and quirky characters.

Starting from Paris in 1938, we have two brilliant authors bound for Constantinople on the glamorous Orient Express. Accompanying them is the competent secretary of Dorothy Sayers - Eliza. Also aboard is Theo, an aristocrat slumming as a laborer on the train. Well known to Eliza, he is madly in love with her, but too frightened to approach her.

Before the journey can start, a sudden violent death takes place, setting Eliza detecting with Theo. The list of suspects keep increasing with each mile including Dorothy, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own. A second death ups the tension and now the search for the murderer is very fast paced.

Very witty and humorous despite being a mystery murder, with nice characterization.

Mystery with love and betrayal based on true events!! This story had me at the edge of my sea! I loved how it all came together at the end

The Case of the Body on the Orient Express, the second book in Kelly Oliver's brilliantly Detection Club cozy mystery series, is a nice mixture of fact and fiction. This book features Dorothy L. Sayers and Agatha Christie on their way to a writer’s convention when someone is murdered on the train they are on and Dorothy is one of the suspects. While Dorothy and Agatha show some interest in investigating the murder, it is Dorothy’s assistant Eliza and her friend Theo who really try and solve the mystery. Eliza is one of the most resourceful amateur sleuths I’ve come across – she has pulled herself up from poverty to learn several languages, become skillful at chess, mastered self-defense, and is very good at solving crimes. Theo is also a good main character (the book switches between his viewpoint and Eliza’s viewpoint) – his background is not one of poverty but he still struggles to break away from his past and build a new life for himself. The two make a great pair – not just when it comes to solving crimes! The book does a good job of blending real life events (a secret from Dorothy’s past as well as Agatha’s recent divorce) as well as real life characters (most notably George Orwell who does not come off well in this book) with fictional events and characters. The mystery is well done with a few surprises and some exciting scenes but I felt it became very convoluted towards the end. In fact, I found the ending to be disappointing – some characters disappeared without explanation and events weren’t really wrapped up (at least on page). All in all, while I did enjoy the characters and historical setting I’m hoping the next book does a better job with the storyline.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

The second in the Detection Club series finds Eliza and Theo investigating again when they are on a train to Istanbul for a writers' conference. Two people from Dorothy Sayers past are on the train - one writing an expose on the other, who happens to be part of a Russian mob like group. When both men end up murdered, they rush to find the killer.

I liked this one while they were on the train. Once they left, I think it lost the thread a little. It became more of a spy/action/thriller novel at that point rather than a mystery. I was also confused because there is a bit of a time jump here, and events happen between books that are relevant for the characters' personal storylines but that we never see??? Like Theo leaves Eliza mid chess game and moves to Paris... But there is no real explanation of this or scene of this (and it wasn't in the first book). The ending also leaves on a weird unfinished note? Like we don't know if Jane is ok or not or really the conclusion of the intrigue. I imagine this will be the plot of the next book. However, after a ok first book and then this lackluster one, this series just might not be for me.

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.