What do you think?
Rate this book
WISE Enquiries Agency #2
The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer
The Women of the WISE Enquiries Agency are back in a witty and intriguing new mystery. "
The Anwen Morris Dancers are to play a pivotal role in the imminent nuptials of Henry, eighteenth Duke of Chellingworth. But it looks as though the wedding plans might go awry unless Mavis, Annie, Carol and Christine can help Althea, the Dowager Duchess, by finding a missing Morris man and a set of ancient and valuable artefacts in time for her son s wedding.
Anwen-by-Wye might look like an idyllic Welsh village where family values reign and traditions still mean something in a modern world, but what will the WISE women find when they peer behind the respectable net curtains?
The Anwen Morris Dancers are to play a pivotal role in the imminent nuptials of Henry, eighteenth Duke of Chellingworth. But it looks as though the wedding plans might go awry unless Mavis, Annie, Carol and Christine can help Althea, the Dowager Duchess, by finding a missing Morris man and a set of ancient and valuable artefacts in time for her son s wedding.
Anwen-by-Wye might look like an idyllic Welsh village where family values reign and traditions still mean something in a modern world, but what will the WISE women find when they peer behind the respectable net curtains?
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2016
675 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Ace
41 books387 followersCathy Ace migrated from her native Wales to Canada at the age of 40. She is the award-winning author of the traditional Cait Morgan Mysteries featuring her Welsh Canadian criminology professor sleuth who travels the world tripping over corpses, which have now been optioned for TV. She also writes the cozier WISE Enquiries Agency Mysteries featuring a quartet of female PIs who run their business out of a Welsh stately home. Both series have been well-reviewed. Her award-winning standalone, THE WRONG BOY, is a gripping novel of psychological suspense, set in Wales, and has also been optioned for TV.
"Ace is, well, an ace when it comes to plot and description.” The Globe and Mail
Cathy's work has won the prestigious Bony Blithe Award for best Canadian light mystery, an IPPY and an IBA Award, and has been shortlisted for an Arthur Ellis Award for Best Short Story.
Her short story "Dear George" appeared on the UK's O Level English Language syllabus and, together with another story, "Domestic Violence", has been produced for BBC Radio 4. You can find out more about Cathy, her books, and events she'll be attending, at www.cathyace.com
"Ace is, well, an ace when it comes to plot and description.” The Globe and Mail
Cathy's work has won the prestigious Bony Blithe Award for best Canadian light mystery, an IPPY and an IBA Award, and has been shortlisted for an Arthur Ellis Award for Best Short Story.
Her short story "Dear George" appeared on the UK's O Level English Language syllabus and, together with another story, "Domestic Violence", has been produced for BBC Radio 4. You can find out more about Cathy, her books, and events she'll be attending, at www.cathyace.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
July 5, 2020
Well, I think I have experienced a strange change of heart. I have always loved the bleak, dark Scandinavian mysteries or detailed forensics. I always used to say that there better be a dramatic murder within the first few pages. I couldn't imagine being impressed with one of those cozy mysteries. Apparently I hadn't encountered the right series until this point.
Cathy Ace was to attend a writing conference in my city this August. Covid-19 has put paid to that, but the organizers assure us that it will happen in 2021. Fingers crossed, as I'm most interested to hear Ms. Ace's views on books and writing.
I'm really enjoying this team of women and their investigations. They're kind of the realistic version of the Athena Club that Theodora Goss created in The Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter. They pass the Bechdel test in spades (although there's plenty of teasing and twitting about the men that the young single women run into during the course of their investigations).
This novel sees them searching for a missing person, not a murderer, which is a nice change. There are a lot of related questions which the women get satisfaction from fixing, as well as finding the missing. So its not too straight forward or easy to guess who dunnit. And it is also pleasurable to watch their lives progress. By the next book, Carol should have given birth while Annie and Christine should be happily involved in relationships. Mavis is already comfortably ensconced with the Dowager Duchess. Now that Duke Henry is married, perhaps he can find some happiness too.
I can't believe this, I'm already looking forward to the next cozy in this series!
Cathy Ace was to attend a writing conference in my city this August. Covid-19 has put paid to that, but the organizers assure us that it will happen in 2021. Fingers crossed, as I'm most interested to hear Ms. Ace's views on books and writing.
I'm really enjoying this team of women and their investigations. They're kind of the realistic version of the Athena Club that Theodora Goss created in The Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter. They pass the Bechdel test in spades (although there's plenty of teasing and twitting about the men that the young single women run into during the course of their investigations).
This novel sees them searching for a missing person, not a murderer, which is a nice change. There are a lot of related questions which the women get satisfaction from fixing, as well as finding the missing. So its not too straight forward or easy to guess who dunnit. And it is also pleasurable to watch their lives progress. By the next book, Carol should have given birth while Annie and Christine should be happily involved in relationships. Mavis is already comfortably ensconced with the Dowager Duchess. Now that Duke Henry is married, perhaps he can find some happiness too.
I can't believe this, I'm already looking forward to the next cozy in this series!
February 18, 2016
This tale set in Wales isn't intended to be too heavy, and some of the customs taken so seriously by the locals even come across as tongue in cheek. A wedding is at stake; the local lord is marrying a younger lady and is amiably going along with traditions. But the Morris dancers can't perform if their missing leader doesn't reappear, and he has taken the valuable, antique dance props with him.
I can't see the ladies of the detective agency having enough work to keep them busy, in a town where everyone knows everyone. So I'm taking their situation as humour. They are a determined mix of types and origins, from the corners of Britain and Ireland, with one lady of immigrant parents and one lady about to become a parent. As I had not read an earlier book I found the chapter in which they discuss the earlier adventure, its characters and everyone's love lives to be immaterial; feel free to skip on to the current events.
Tradition and superstition are visited and turn out to hold the keys to on-going problems. Can the wedding be saved? You'll have fun finding out and if you get the chance to go to a wedding in Wales, you'll enjoy the day.
I can't see the ladies of the detective agency having enough work to keep them busy, in a town where everyone knows everyone. So I'm taking their situation as humour. They are a determined mix of types and origins, from the corners of Britain and Ireland, with one lady of immigrant parents and one lady about to become a parent. As I had not read an earlier book I found the chapter in which they discuss the earlier adventure, its characters and everyone's love lives to be immaterial; feel free to skip on to the current events.
Tradition and superstition are visited and turn out to hold the keys to on-going problems. Can the wedding be saved? You'll have fun finding out and if you get the chance to go to a wedding in Wales, you'll enjoy the day.
March 11, 2016
The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer by Cathy Ace is the second book in The WISE Enquiries Agency Mystery series. Henry Twyst, the Eighteenth Earl of Chellingworth is getting married to Stephanie Timbers. This is the first marriage of a sitting duke in over a hundred years. The village (and Henry’s mother) want the couple to incorporate as many of the Welsh traditions into their wedding as possible. One of those traditions is the Anwen Morris Dancers. The Morris Dancers lead the bridal couple from the church to the hall for the reception (it is supposed to enhance fertility). But when Aubrey Morris (the musician) goes missing (along with the instruments), Althea (the Dowager) asks the ladies at The WISE Enquiries Agency to investigate. Will they be able to find Aubrey before the wedding? Annie, Christine, Carol, and Mavis have their work cut out for them on this case.
I was disappointed in The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer. It sounded like such an interesting book, but I was bored to tears. The book had a very slow pace that makes the reader want to fall asleep (or skip to the end). A lot of information is repeated a few times throughout the book (like the writer needed filler). The writer then added a stolen wedding gown and drama from Henry’s sister, Clementine (it was just idiotic and a wee bit over the top). I am afraid that I did not enjoy The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer. I give The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer 2.75 out of 5 stars (it was okay or satisfactory). This book was just not my cup of tea (get it). I do not believe I will be reading any more books in The WISE Enquiries Agency Mystery series.
I received a complimentary copy of The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was disappointed in The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer. It sounded like such an interesting book, but I was bored to tears. The book had a very slow pace that makes the reader want to fall asleep (or skip to the end). A lot of information is repeated a few times throughout the book (like the writer needed filler). The writer then added a stolen wedding gown and drama from Henry’s sister, Clementine (it was just idiotic and a wee bit over the top). I am afraid that I did not enjoy The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer. I give The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer 2.75 out of 5 stars (it was okay or satisfactory). This book was just not my cup of tea (get it). I do not believe I will be reading any more books in The WISE Enquiries Agency Mystery series.
I received a complimentary copy of The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2017
I had never heard of this author, but the title grabbed me while reading Library Journal. As a former Morris Dancer I just had to read this book. I was not disappointed. The characters were the best thing about this book. From their personalities and descriptions I could form images in my mind. I love the setting as I also lived in Wales for a time and the description of the small village and their characters were true to life.
The story itself was interesting, but it lacked some pizzazz. It was a fun read, though.
The story itself was interesting, but it lacked some pizzazz. It was a fun read, though.
September 4, 2016
The words "Morris Dancer" drew me to this book as an Anglophile and I was not disappointed! Throw in the women of the WISE Enquiries Agency and a wedding and I was hooked!
May 11, 2022
The promise of the first volume in the series is furthered in this second. The characters are developing nicely. The plot is plausible, well within the boundaries of the setting, and a vehicle to build the team of sleuths and the community they are gathering around them.
It’s worth reading them in order as this has the hallmark of a serial or saga into which the reader is drawn and left wanting more. Be prepared!
It’s worth reading them in order as this has the hallmark of a serial or saga into which the reader is drawn and left wanting more. Be prepared!
May 21, 2023
2nd in the series. While this book did have a mystery, there was no murder, or dead bodies *smile*. It felt like a transition book, where the women of WISE Enquiries Agency have moved the business and their lives to and a cozy Welsh village. Along with increased character development and history of morris dancing, I did enjoy the read and will continue with this series
February 26, 2017
The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer is the second installment in the WISE Enquiries Agency Series by author Cathy Ace. The ladies of the WISE Enquiry Agency are back, and Althea, the Dowager Duchess of Chellingworth (an absolute hoot, who loves quoting Monty Python!!!), is now an honorary member. Carol, Christine, Mavis and Annie have moved to Anwen-by-Wye, and are getting ready to attend the marriage of Henry, Duke of Chellingworth and his fiance, when one of the local Morris Dancers goes missing and they must locate him before the wedding. There are mysteries within the mystery, and once again Cathy Ace has delivered a lovely story, very enjoyable and well-written with no violence or bad language - just a nice cozy mystery. A+
October 13, 2015
The women of the WISE enquiry agency have moved, lock stock and barrel to Wales, thanks to the generosity of their previous client in providing them with cheap accommodation. Things are going well for them and Henry - the Duke - is about to marry his secretary Stephanie when an important part of the celebrations looks like coming apart. Aubrey Morris - the local handyman and mainstay of the Morris dancing troupe - disappears with all the Morris dancers' regalia.
Althea, the Dowager Duchess, asks WISE to investigate and track down Aubrey so that the Morris dancers can lead the celebrations in a few days time. This is a well written and intriguing mystery and it was nice to catch up with all the WISE women who first made an appearance in 'The Case of the Dotty Dowager.
I don't think the author has quite sorted out how the four women - Annie, Mavis, Christine and Carol - are to interact with each other as some of their exchanges still seem a little stilted to me. However, they seem to have involved a fairly efficient way of working between them compared with the first book.
I like the way the Dowager has taken on a new lease of life now she has found a friend in Mavis and has taken an interest in enquiry work. Overall I enjoyed reading this second book in the series and I look forward to reading more of them. I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley for review.
Althea, the Dowager Duchess, asks WISE to investigate and track down Aubrey so that the Morris dancers can lead the celebrations in a few days time. This is a well written and intriguing mystery and it was nice to catch up with all the WISE women who first made an appearance in 'The Case of the Dotty Dowager.
I don't think the author has quite sorted out how the four women - Annie, Mavis, Christine and Carol - are to interact with each other as some of their exchanges still seem a little stilted to me. However, they seem to have involved a fairly efficient way of working between them compared with the first book.
I like the way the Dowager has taken on a new lease of life now she has found a friend in Mavis and has taken an interest in enquiry work. Overall I enjoyed reading this second book in the series and I look forward to reading more of them. I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley for review.
March 27, 2023
A thoroughly enjoyable read.
The four women of WISE Enquiries Agency have moved from London to be based on a large rural estate in Powys thanks to the generosity of the Duke of Chellingworth, and it's not long before a case arises for them to investigate.
With only days to go before the Duke's wedding, the leader of the local Morris dancers disappears, leaving everyone in a quandary.
I am thoroughly enjoying this excellent who-dunnit series which is brilliantly penned by Cathy Ace.
The four women of WISE Enquiries Agency have moved from London to be based on a large rural estate in Powys thanks to the generosity of the Duke of Chellingworth, and it's not long before a case arises for them to investigate.
With only days to go before the Duke's wedding, the leader of the local Morris dancers disappears, leaving everyone in a quandary.
I am thoroughly enjoying this excellent who-dunnit series which is brilliantly penned by Cathy Ace.
October 31, 2016
This was a fun book. I hope there is another in the series.
June 7, 2022
If you are looking for a new cozy mystery series, this is one my fellow Anglophiles will love. The characters, setting, and mystery get 2 thumbs up and 5 stars from me!
March 17, 2023
"The Case Of The Missing Morris Dancer" is book #2 in the "WISE Enquiries Agency" series by Cathy Ace.
"Henry, eighteenth Duke of Chellingworth, is about to marry Stephanie Timbers in a grand ceremony at his Welsh estate. But one of the Morris dancers, who must lead the wedding party through the village, is missing. Along with the troupe’s kit of exquisite sixteenth-century silver bells and engraved sticks. Can the ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency track him down and save the day?"
My thoughts:
Henry is clearly overwhelmed by the ever increasing details of the upcoming wedding. Thankfully, his bride to be Stephanie, as well as the staff are pretty much on top of things.
The complication of the missing dancer is vexing to say the least. By all reports, the missing dancer was very responsible and would never have left willingly before the wedding but the police think otherwise and aren't investigating. This frustrates the soon to be married couple to no end and they call on the WISE women for help. The team is definitely up to the challenge even when some very confusing and disturbing information comes to light. . .
The four women have settled into their new homes on or near the estate. I do enjoy the banter and the bonds between the women - though I will say that Annie's habit of abbreviating others given names to a syllable is rather annoying - especially as she knows they don't like it much. Carol is close to her due date for giving birth to "bump" which does limit her ability to do some of the work away from her computer but her research skills are very impressive! Christine is doing some work on the case with the help of her boyfriend Alexander (who also meets her parents!). Mavis has become quite close with the dowager Althea who has been named an honorary member of the team. Between them, the women track some very important clues as they ask questions, do research and listen to some of the local stories - all while also helping with the wedding preparations!
A quite enjoyable read!
"Henry, eighteenth Duke of Chellingworth, is about to marry Stephanie Timbers in a grand ceremony at his Welsh estate. But one of the Morris dancers, who must lead the wedding party through the village, is missing. Along with the troupe’s kit of exquisite sixteenth-century silver bells and engraved sticks. Can the ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency track him down and save the day?"
My thoughts:
Henry is clearly overwhelmed by the ever increasing details of the upcoming wedding. Thankfully, his bride to be Stephanie, as well as the staff are pretty much on top of things.
The complication of the missing dancer is vexing to say the least. By all reports, the missing dancer was very responsible and would never have left willingly before the wedding but the police think otherwise and aren't investigating. This frustrates the soon to be married couple to no end and they call on the WISE women for help. The team is definitely up to the challenge even when some very confusing and disturbing information comes to light. . .
The four women have settled into their new homes on or near the estate. I do enjoy the banter and the bonds between the women - though I will say that Annie's habit of abbreviating others given names to a syllable is rather annoying - especially as she knows they don't like it much. Carol is close to her due date for giving birth to "bump" which does limit her ability to do some of the work away from her computer but her research skills are very impressive! Christine is doing some work on the case with the help of her boyfriend Alexander (who also meets her parents!). Mavis has become quite close with the dowager Althea who has been named an honorary member of the team. Between them, the women track some very important clues as they ask questions, do research and listen to some of the local stories - all while also helping with the wedding preparations!
A quite enjoyable read!
August 1, 2017
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2fRjXJC
The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer gave me several hours of pure reading pleasure, and Cathy Ace has just become one of my favorite mystery writers. I have long been a fan of stories with British small-village settings and it doesn’t get any better than this. Rather than fast-paced action, the well-written narrative is relaxed, filled with interesting historical detail, good characterization, and witty dialogue.
Set in the picturesque village of Anwen-by-Wye in Powys, Wales, The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer is steeped in atmosphere and tradition. According to Dowager Duchess Althea, “Traditions hold fast. Time is allowed to pass us by as we choose. We grasp only at those parts of it we want.”
One of those important traditions is the performance of the Morris Dancers at the wedding of the sitting Duke of Chellingworth, Henry Devereaux Twyst. The dancers consist of a troupe of six Morris men and a dancing Morris musician, who lead the bride and groom and most of the inhabitants of the village along a mile of winding pathways as they make their way from St. David’s Church to Chellingworth Hall. Some even believe this tradition affects the couple’s future fertility. There’s only one problem, however – the musician has gone missing – and this is where the four delightful ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency step in. From age to cultural background, Mavis, Annie, Carol and Christine couldn’t be more different, yet they are good with people and at making “discreet” inquiries.
I loved everything about The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer and am eager to read more from Cathy Ace. Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer gave me several hours of pure reading pleasure, and Cathy Ace has just become one of my favorite mystery writers. I have long been a fan of stories with British small-village settings and it doesn’t get any better than this. Rather than fast-paced action, the well-written narrative is relaxed, filled with interesting historical detail, good characterization, and witty dialogue.
Set in the picturesque village of Anwen-by-Wye in Powys, Wales, The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer is steeped in atmosphere and tradition. According to Dowager Duchess Althea, “Traditions hold fast. Time is allowed to pass us by as we choose. We grasp only at those parts of it we want.”
One of those important traditions is the performance of the Morris Dancers at the wedding of the sitting Duke of Chellingworth, Henry Devereaux Twyst. The dancers consist of a troupe of six Morris men and a dancing Morris musician, who lead the bride and groom and most of the inhabitants of the village along a mile of winding pathways as they make their way from St. David’s Church to Chellingworth Hall. Some even believe this tradition affects the couple’s future fertility. There’s only one problem, however – the musician has gone missing – and this is where the four delightful ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency step in. From age to cultural background, Mavis, Annie, Carol and Christine couldn’t be more different, yet they are good with people and at making “discreet” inquiries.
I loved everything about The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer and am eager to read more from Cathy Ace. Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
November 10, 2022
At the end of 2021 , after reading an article in The CRA newsletter about the author, I found the first book in both of her series. I was not over impressed with the Cait Morgan book and embarked on the first of the WISE Agency series, without too much enthusiasm.
I was surprised to find that the book that I had downloaded 'The Case of the Dotty Dowager' was actually an omnibus of the first five books of the series. That this is the second, shows that i enjoyed the first more than my experience with Cait Morgan.
This story follows on from the Agency's success in the first , which explains their current situation in the village of Arwen by Wye with their office in the outbuildings of Chellingworth Hall.
Similar to the first case this isnt exactly a life or death matter, but the unexpected disappearance of one of the men from the village threatens the wedding of the Duke (the Agency's benefactor). Tradition has it that the local Morrismen must lead the married couple back from the church to the Hall to ensure the fertility of the marriage but it is Aubrey, the player for the Men, who has gone missing.
The cozy novel is slow paced - imagine Midsommer Murders on tranquilisers and I wonder if it was being stretched out a bit too much. Having said that, it was an easy read with a little light humour as the four very different women ,each use their specific skills to save the day. Not only that but each advancing their own lives in the community.
I am sure that we will hear more of The Honourable Christine Wilson-Smythe's Alexander and Annie's Tudor in future stories.
I was surprised to find that the book that I had downloaded 'The Case of the Dotty Dowager' was actually an omnibus of the first five books of the series. That this is the second, shows that i enjoyed the first more than my experience with Cait Morgan.
This story follows on from the Agency's success in the first , which explains their current situation in the village of Arwen by Wye with their office in the outbuildings of Chellingworth Hall.
Similar to the first case this isnt exactly a life or death matter, but the unexpected disappearance of one of the men from the village threatens the wedding of the Duke (the Agency's benefactor). Tradition has it that the local Morrismen must lead the married couple back from the church to the Hall to ensure the fertility of the marriage but it is Aubrey, the player for the Men, who has gone missing.
The cozy novel is slow paced - imagine Midsommer Murders on tranquilisers and I wonder if it was being stretched out a bit too much. Having said that, it was an easy read with a little light humour as the four very different women ,each use their specific skills to save the day. Not only that but each advancing their own lives in the community.
I am sure that we will hear more of The Honourable Christine Wilson-Smythe's Alexander and Annie's Tudor in future stories.
April 15, 2022
Oh what have I let myself in for?
This delightful series continues in a second book. Hot on the heels of their success in THE CASE OF THE DOTTY DOWAGER, the ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency have moved from London to the Welsh countryside, in particular the Chellingworth estate, and the nearby village. In particular Mavis has become live-in companion to Althea, the dotty dowager herself, their office is in one of the estate building, Annie has a cottage in the village centre, Carol and husband David have their own house near the village, and Christine has an apartment at the Hall.
So it is a month or so into the next year and elaborate preparations are underway for the Duke's wedding. Then Aubrey Morris who is meant to be leading the Morris dancers in their procession at the wedding goes unexpectedly missing. Normally the quietest and yet most reliable of chaps, a local handyman, Aubrey doesn't turn up for an appointment he has made to to transport the Morris dancers. In addition their regalia has gone missing, and his van can't be found. It comes out that Aubrey was planning to go away, but not until the week after the wedding. The Duke wants him found.
What I am enjoying about these books is the development of each of the characters and the fleshing out of how they work as a team. Little traits are being added to each of them. Althea, the Dowager Duchess, as made an honorary member of WISE, and Alexander Bright, Christine's new "friend" becomes very useful indeed.
I'm hooked!
This delightful series continues in a second book. Hot on the heels of their success in THE CASE OF THE DOTTY DOWAGER, the ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency have moved from London to the Welsh countryside, in particular the Chellingworth estate, and the nearby village. In particular Mavis has become live-in companion to Althea, the dotty dowager herself, their office is in one of the estate building, Annie has a cottage in the village centre, Carol and husband David have their own house near the village, and Christine has an apartment at the Hall.
So it is a month or so into the next year and elaborate preparations are underway for the Duke's wedding. Then Aubrey Morris who is meant to be leading the Morris dancers in their procession at the wedding goes unexpectedly missing. Normally the quietest and yet most reliable of chaps, a local handyman, Aubrey doesn't turn up for an appointment he has made to to transport the Morris dancers. In addition their regalia has gone missing, and his van can't be found. It comes out that Aubrey was planning to go away, but not until the week after the wedding. The Duke wants him found.
What I am enjoying about these books is the development of each of the characters and the fleshing out of how they work as a team. Little traits are being added to each of them. Althea, the Dowager Duchess, as made an honorary member of WISE, and Alexander Bright, Christine's new "friend" becomes very useful indeed.
I'm hooked!
May 13, 2019
As you may be aware I have read a number of titles in this series and have enjoyed the light hearted nature of the books. The characters are engaging, the plot line isn’t too complex and for a lazy afternoon read I don’t think you can get much better but in this instance I was rather disappointed.
The series so far has been quite engaging, a few twists and turns a bit of witty repartee and a premise which was maybe not quite believable but you can forgive that in an engaging read, and unfortunately the trend didn’t continue with this book.
From the outset the plotline was so contrived that I found myself wincing in places, the women of the wise agency seemed to be completing a synchronized swimming routine which fell flat for me but even this I might have overlooked if not for the pages long explanation at the conclusion.
One of the things I have liked about this series is the fact that the WISE women solve the mystery, they tie up the loose end and you know what has occurred without the need for a summery. In The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer Cathy Ace decided to take another route and I hope she recognizes the error quickly.
The series so far has been quite engaging, a few twists and turns a bit of witty repartee and a premise which was maybe not quite believable but you can forgive that in an engaging read, and unfortunately the trend didn’t continue with this book.
From the outset the plotline was so contrived that I found myself wincing in places, the women of the wise agency seemed to be completing a synchronized swimming routine which fell flat for me but even this I might have overlooked if not for the pages long explanation at the conclusion.
One of the things I have liked about this series is the fact that the WISE women solve the mystery, they tie up the loose end and you know what has occurred without the need for a summery. In The Case of the Missing Morris Dancer Cathy Ace decided to take another route and I hope she recognizes the error quickly.
July 17, 2023
The girls who run the WISE enquiry agency have another case to solve, the case of the missing morris dancer. Henry Devereux, Duke of Chellingworth, is about to marry his assistant Stephanie. One of the rituals of this marriage is that he is to be preceded after leaving the church with his bride, by a group of dancing morris men all the way back to the Hall. They ring bells and hit sticks. And dance. (I quite like morris dancers, we get a lot of them round here). However a few days beforehand they discover that the leader of the morris troop has gone missing along with the all the regalia they need to dance, ring bells and not forgetting the sticks, this is a very expensive piece of kit as well, running into thousands of pounds of kit.
Naturally the dowager duchess Althea hires the girls to find out what happened to the regalia and what happened to Aubrey who should have been leading the dance and where is the kit? I know the girls will solve the crime of the missing morris dancer, and find the expensive regalia with it and solve a few other things along the way, so the book isn't a surprise at all. The only character I like in this book is Alexander Bright, he seems to have an interesting back story.
Naturally the dowager duchess Althea hires the girls to find out what happened to the regalia and what happened to Aubrey who should have been leading the dance and where is the kit? I know the girls will solve the crime of the missing morris dancer, and find the expensive regalia with it and solve a few other things along the way, so the book isn't a surprise at all. The only character I like in this book is Alexander Bright, he seems to have an interesting back story.
December 23, 2023
I feel a tad curmudgeonly about this rating but it took me a while to get all the characters straight as the author has clearly opted to represent all four 'kingdoms' of the (so-far) United Kingdom. The intent seems to allow each to have some sort of specialty that they "bring to the table" as Chet the Jet would say.
Also coming from the same home country I do want to support such a delightful lady...her podcast explaining how important libraries are, hit truly in this reviewer. Without public libraries I would never have been able to launch into my careers either if it wasn't for the vast array of information and help they provided in my early days of voracious reading.
So.
I shall return to this series as there are obviously more to come even if the 'cosy' aspect comes across as a little much for my taste. That market is swamped with dreck and Ace thankfully is certainly NOT one of them. She knows of what she speaks and her plot placements are a delight to ex-patriot Welsh everywhere. Maybe even those who would wander the hills and valleys of that enticing land to discovery it for themselves.
My message then for Cathy Ace is "Boed hir iddi greu!"
Also coming from the same home country I do want to support such a delightful lady...her podcast explaining how important libraries are, hit truly in this reviewer. Without public libraries I would never have been able to launch into my careers either if it wasn't for the vast array of information and help they provided in my early days of voracious reading.
So.
I shall return to this series as there are obviously more to come even if the 'cosy' aspect comes across as a little much for my taste. That market is swamped with dreck and Ace thankfully is certainly NOT one of them. She knows of what she speaks and her plot placements are a delight to ex-patriot Welsh everywhere. Maybe even those who would wander the hills and valleys of that enticing land to discovery it for themselves.
My message then for Cathy Ace is "Boed hir iddi greu!"
March 7, 2019
Pre-wedding preparations for the Duke of Chellingworth and Stephanie include trying to adhere to age-old traditions, an important one of which is the escort of the newly weds from the church to Chellingworth Hall by the local Morris dancers. The lead musician, however, fails to show up for a meeting to finalize the arrangements--a most unusual oversight by a scrupulous young man. The Dowager Duchess, therefore, engages the WISE Enquiries Agency to find the missing musician.
As well, the wedding festivities are bringing Stephanie's, Annie's, and Christine's parents, which entails adjustments to their respective daughters' lives. And, of course, Carol is within days of having her first child. Still, the WISE women, including the honorary member the Dowager Duchess, bring their individual skills to unraveling the multiplying mysteries.
As well, the wedding festivities are bringing Stephanie's, Annie's, and Christine's parents, which entails adjustments to their respective daughters' lives. And, of course, Carol is within days of having her first child. Still, the WISE women, including the honorary member the Dowager Duchess, bring their individual skills to unraveling the multiplying mysteries.
July 1, 2021
Four women who make up the WISE Enquiries Agency and who have recently moved from London to Powys, Wales have been asked by Henry, eighteenth Duke of Chellingworth to find the missing Morris dancer and musician who was to lead the tradition wedding parade for him and his bride. I really enjoyed the mystery and these four very different women who have become licensed investigators. Mavis, an early 60s retired army nurse, Annie, an early 50s Black aficionado of crime drama, Carol, a very pregnant 34 year old accountant and computer expert, and Christine, a 27 year old Honorable from a wealthy family each have their own skills to offer and we get alternating chapters from each as well as Henry. I learned a bit about the dancing and Welsh wedding traditions. I will definitely be looking for more of these.
April 17, 2025
This is such a good series for all that I've only read the first two books. The story unfolds through the voices of the WISE Enquiry agents and other characters. It's all intriguing and entertaining with the getting called into an investigation, finding side investigations, the alliterative names of each case, the characters they meet and interact with, the village life and just everything!
I liked learning the history, the life in a village in Wales, the WISE agency getting settled in the village and their digs. No murder but plenty of mystery to investigate. I liked watching the process each agent used to get to the end results.
I can absolutely recommend this book, series and author.
I liked learning the history, the life in a village in Wales, the WISE agency getting settled in the village and their digs. No murder but plenty of mystery to investigate. I liked watching the process each agent used to get to the end results.
I can absolutely recommend this book, series and author.
October 28, 2020
Good Mystery and Interesting Characters
I enjoyed this book very much, and am already reading the third in series. I was happy to see that the unpleasant characteristics in the one black woman in the WISE Inquiry Agency had been softened considerably. The mystery was very interesting. I like how real sleuthing lead from one clue to another until the ladies figured out what happened. So many cozy mysteries I read are all about the characters and maybe a romance, then all of a sudden the case is miraculously solved. This book let's you get to know the characters as they investigate and follow the clues they themselves have uncovered. Great book.
I enjoyed this book very much, and am already reading the third in series. I was happy to see that the unpleasant characteristics in the one black woman in the WISE Inquiry Agency had been softened considerably. The mystery was very interesting. I like how real sleuthing lead from one clue to another until the ladies figured out what happened. So many cozy mysteries I read are all about the characters and maybe a romance, then all of a sudden the case is miraculously solved. This book let's you get to know the characters as they investigate and follow the clues they themselves have uncovered. Great book.
May 9, 2022
I love this series!
This series has a delightful cast of characters…..especially the ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency. This book is fun, amusing dialogue, full of information about Morris Dancing that I didn’t know, a glossary of Brit slang at the end (but sadly, no glossary of the Welsh words that crop up throughout the book….had to look them up myself), more than one mystery going on, budding romances, and no graphic sex/violence and no cliffhanger endings. I have already bought the next book and it is on my “to be read” shelf. So, curl up in a comfy chair with a cup (or 2) of tea and enjoy the ride!
This series has a delightful cast of characters…..especially the ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency. This book is fun, amusing dialogue, full of information about Morris Dancing that I didn’t know, a glossary of Brit slang at the end (but sadly, no glossary of the Welsh words that crop up throughout the book….had to look them up myself), more than one mystery going on, budding romances, and no graphic sex/violence and no cliffhanger endings. I have already bought the next book and it is on my “to be read” shelf. So, curl up in a comfy chair with a cup (or 2) of tea and enjoy the ride!
March 11, 2023
Traditions had to be kept, when a member of the local aristocracy was getting married. Part of that tradition was to have the newly married couple escorted to their their new residence, after their nuptials, by a group of Morris Dancers.
When the main Morris Dancer is a no show, for a meeting, people who knew how reliable a you man he was, went on a hunt for him. The WISE agents were employed and a number of various incidents uncovered.
What happens, well, the author's version is better than my poor synapses.
When the main Morris Dancer is a no show, for a meeting, people who knew how reliable a you man he was, went on a hunt for him. The WISE agents were employed and a number of various incidents uncovered.
What happens, well, the author's version is better than my poor synapses.
April 30, 2020
I quite enjoyed this novel, which was charming on several fronts. I learned a bit about Morris dancing -- a style of folk dancing with ancient origins. I loved the women of the WISE Enquiries Agency (although I wish I had figured out that WISE stood for Welsh, Irish, Scottish and English earlier on in the story.) And the backdrop of the Welsh village, and the Duke of Chellingworth's marriage all added color and interest to the mystery. I hope to read another novel by Cathy Ace soon!
October 28, 2020
This second mystery for the WISE enquiry agents is a delight!
Four friends who’ve taken up professional snooping are relocated to the small town of Chellingworth once they’ve helped the local Duke with an enquiry. Our intrepid ladies find friendship, comfort, acceptance and a bit of romance in this installment. I look forward to more situations sorted by Mavis, Carol, Christine, and Annie along with the Dowager Althea.
Four friends who’ve taken up professional snooping are relocated to the small town of Chellingworth once they’ve helped the local Duke with an enquiry. Our intrepid ladies find friendship, comfort, acceptance and a bit of romance in this installment. I look forward to more situations sorted by Mavis, Carol, Christine, and Annie along with the Dowager Althea.
November 19, 2020
Enjoyed the second chapter better than first.
I enjoyed this chapter of the ladies of the WISE Enquiries more than the first. The main characters are surrounded by a kaleidoscope of interesting village characters and traditions. The plot had enough twists and turns to keep me guessing about the motives and outcomes until almost the end. A very pleasant way to spend a beautiful Fall day.
I enjoyed this chapter of the ladies of the WISE Enquiries more than the first. The main characters are surrounded by a kaleidoscope of interesting village characters and traditions. The plot had enough twists and turns to keep me guessing about the motives and outcomes until almost the end. A very pleasant way to spend a beautiful Fall day.
February 19, 2024
A much easier read than the first book! I went into this book a little apprehensive as the first book was a little difficult to read. I was pleasantly surprised! The writing was a lot more fluid and easy to follow! The story progressed well with twists spread evenly to keep you entertained. I really enjoyed this book and glad I stuck with the WISE women! Looking forward to reading the next instalment!
November 7, 2024
The four ladies of the WISE Enquiries Agency are a formidable team. Each lady has her own set of skills and some of them overlap, but the results are the same. They get things done. The plot in this story is straightforward and the premise is like the title says finding the missing Morris dancer and why he disappeared. All I can say is sometimes people let their superstitions rule their lives far too much. The answers were found and the case resolved and I definitely recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews