The Bloody Tower

Written by Carola Dunn
Review by Nina de Angeli

Intrepid freelance writer Daisy Dalrymple Fletcher, a viscount’s daughter married to a Scotland Yard officer, ventures into the garrison of Her Majesty’s Tower of London to research a magazine series.

In 1925, the long and violent history of the Tower is belied by the cozy tea she enjoys with the Resident Governor and his eccentric family. Having left her new-born twins at home with a proper nanny, Daisy finds time to develop new friendships and discover the petty feuds of the military garrison and the Yeoman Warders (aka Beefeaters). Note-taking on historical spots like Raleigh’s Walk and Traitor’s Gate is interrupted by her discovery of a murdered Yeoman at the base of steps to the Bloody Tower. A man with no enemies, or so she is told. Scotland Yard is called in—Daisy’s husband Alec of course. While the garrison officers flirt with their commander’s daughters, Daisy assists in the investigation by gossiping and listening. Such interference with her husband’s work may seem likely or impermissible, but Dunn’s humorous touch and period details provide an enjoyable read in this, the sixteenth installment in the series.