Are you fond of a jolly little Christmas mystery? I certainly am. Join me for a look at the inspiration and research behind Murder on a Midnight Clear, a 1920s Christmas mystery.

I can’t pass up a mystery set at a snowbound country estate, so that’s exactly the situation I put my characters in for the sixth book in the High Society Lady Detective series. 

In this episode I delve into the wonderful world of vintage luggage, American slang from the 1920s, and my research trip to London and what it has to do with a world-wide lockdown.  Support the Show. 

Murder on a Midnight Clear

A podcast devoted to helping readers discover new mystery books. Hosted by USA Today bestselling mystery author Sara Rosett.

Arts

Literature

Performing Arts

Design

Food

Fashion & Beauty

Visual Arts

Servant Life: it wasn’t all elegance and extravagance in the 1920s Join me for a deep dive into life "downstairs” in a country house. From the servant hierarchy to the grueling work to the lack of personal freedom, the staff had a completely different experience from those “upstairs.”

 We also take a little detour into the history of household appliances, including a socialite who invented the modern dishwasher! 

Creative genius and chaotic influence: how a society photographer inspired a character

 This episode delves into the character of  Sebastian Blakely, a vibrant and unconventional photographer who brings his own unique form of turmoil to the High Society Lady series. Inspired by real-life society photographer Cecil Beaton, Blakely's cheeky wit and penchant for stirring the pot keeps things interesting.

 Recent read: A Traitor in Whitehall (Affiliate link)  Read-alikes: WWII mysteries  MBP S1 E3 Poppy Redfern and the Midnight Murders by Tessa Arlen S2 E6 – Olive Bright, Pigeoneer

 Next chapters in the next episode!  If you want the rest of the mystery right now, you can get Murder in Archly Manor in ebook, audio, and print at SaraRosettBooks.com.  

 Support the Show. 

Why set a book in the 1920s? Because a time of great change makes for an interesting setting. The phrase "may you live in interesting times," certainly applies to the tumultuous post-World War I period. Find out how motorcars, bobbed hair, short hemlines, and makeup compacts play into the changing social mores in this “Story Behind the Story” of Chapters 5 and 6 of Murder at Archly Manor, a 1920s historical mystery.  Recent read: The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder by C.L. Miller (Affiliate link)  Read-alikes: the Kate Hamilton mystery series. A Dream of Death by Connie Berry (Affiliate link).

Chapters 5 and 6 of Murder at Archly Manor narrated by Elizabeth Klett. Next chapter in the next episode!  If you want the rest of the mystery right now, you can get Murder in Archly Manor in ebook, audio, and print at SaraRosettBooks.com.  

 Support the Show. 

Murder at Archly Manor: Ch 5 and 6 + Mystery Books set in the world of Antiques

⛲️ Love an English stately home? Then come with me on a tour of Chatsworth House and find out how the English country home inspired not one, but two book series in this “Story Behind the Story” of Chapter 4 of Murder at Archly Manor, a 1920s historical mystery. Plus reading recommendations for Sherlock Holmes fans! 

Murder on a Midnight Clear

Download our free app to listen on your phone