A sparkling sequel filled with satire, flying squirrels, and a whole lot of cleverness!
Julia Seales has done it again! Terribly Nasty Business, the much-anticipated follow-up to A Most Agreeable Murder, returns us to the delightfully absurd world of Beatrice Steele! Now in London, surrounded by high society, over-the-top hats, and an ever-growing list of suspicious corpses.
This book had me grinning from the very first page! It’s fast-paced, smart, and absolutely brimming with witty charm. If you love period mysteries with a healthy dose of satire and sass, this is a series you need in your life!
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Summary
Beatrice Steele and her ever-loyal (and gloriously over dramatic) chaperone, Miss Bolton, have arrived in London for the Season. But Beatrice has more than matchmaking on her mind.
She’s officially opening a detective agency with the enigmatic and forever brooding Inspector Vivek Drake. She’s ready to put her talents to the test in the bustling chaos of Sweetbriar London!
Their first big case? Prove the innocence of Mr. Nash, a flamboyant stage performer accused of murder at the exclusive Rose Club. Unfortunately, Sir Lawrence Huxley (Drake’s pompous rival from book one) has already decided Nash is guilty. And now he’s set his sights on courting Beatrice, adding yet another layer of complication to her already chaotic life.
As Beatrice tries to wrangle eccentric suspects, society gossip, and her own heart, she must also contend with Sweetbriar’s glittering but dangerous underbelly.
With the help of Miss Bolton (who has graduated to even larger hats), a flying squirrel or two, and Drake’s dry sarcasm, Beatrice uncovers more than just clues. She begins to question the very role of women, art, and reputation in polite society.
Review
⭐️ 5 stars | Jane Austen meets Knives Out
There’s something magical about how Julia Seales balances satire with substance. Terribly Nasty Business is a romp, yes, but it’s also sneakily profound. Beneath the laughs and lacy gloves is a sharp-eyed look at gender roles, creative freedom, and the absurd hoops women have always had to jump through to be taken seriously.
Beatrice continues to be an absolute joy as a protagonist curious, awkward, deeply determined, and just enough of a rule-breaker to keep things spicy. Her chemistry with Drake smolders deliciously on the back burner, and the romantic tension is handled with just the right amount of restraint and longing.
Fan of slow burns? You’ll be very satisfied here.
But let’s not forget the real show-stealer: Miss Bolton. Still larger than life, she brings a delightful chaos to every scene. The cast is rounded out by a lively ensemble of new and returning characters. Each quirkier than the last. There are flying squirrels, murder suspects who are more dramatic than helpful, and endless gems of dry British humor that had me laughing out loud!
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Read If You Like:
- Cozy historical mysteries with a twist
- Sharp, satirical humor (think Jane Austen meets Knives Out)
- Strong female leads and slow-burn romance
- Found family vibes and quirky side characters
- Murder investigations with a side of tea and scandal
Where to Start
Start with Book One: A Most Agreeable Murder if you haven’t yet—Beatrice’s origin story is too good to miss!
Final Thoughts
Terribly Nasty Business is everything I wanted in a sequel and more. Smart, stylish, and packed with charm, it builds beautifully on the world introduced in book one and left me desperate for more. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Beatrice, Drake, Miss Bolton, and the entire Sweetbriar crew!
If you're in need of a smile and a mystery that doesn't take itself too seriously this series is sure to be your next obsession!
If You Loved Terribly Nasty Business Try These:
A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem by Manda Collins
A witty Victorian mystery featuring a crime reporter who inserts herself into a serial killer investigation and clashes (and sparks) with a very grumpy detective inspector. Think banter, danger, and a heroine who refuses to stay in her lane.
Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore
A sharp, sexy historical romance set during the women’s suffrage movement in England. A brilliant bluestocking and a brooding duke collide in a story full of political intrigue, feminist fire, and swoon-worthy moments.
The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton
Pirates in petticoats? Yes, please. This hilarious, high-flying romp features Victorian lady assassins, airborne mansions, and a romance that’s equal parts absurd and adorable. Perfect for fans of quirky characters and chaotic good energy.
If you're in the mood for a smart, satirical mystery with a fiercely independent heroine, eccentric side characters, and just the right amount of romantic tension Terribly Nasty Business delivers on every front. Julia Seales blends witty commentary, fast-paced plotting, and delightful absurdity into a story that feels fresh, funny, and deeply satisfying!
