Review: The Proof Of the Pudding by Rhys Bowen (Royal Spyness #17)
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If you’ve been keeping up with the antics of Lady Georgiana, then you won’t want to miss The Proof of the Pudding by Rhys Bowen, #17 in the Royal Spyness series. With this book, fans of the Royal Spyness series are treated to another witty and charming mystery featuring Lady Georgiana Rannoch. This installment blends country-house glamour with a sinister poison garden and Georgie’s sharp sleuthing instincts – all while she prepares for her most important role yet: motherhood.
Key Takeaways: The Proof of the Pudding by Rhys Bowen
What’s It About
Lady Georgiana Rannoch is eager to prove herself as a proper hostess, throwing her very first house party at her estate in Eynsleigh. With Sir Hubert back from his travels and a brilliant French chef in the kitchen, she hopes the gathering will mark her entry into society as a capable lady of the house.
The evening is a glittering success until Sir Mortimer Mordred, a horror novelist fascinated by poisons, invites Georgie and Darcy to his nearby manor. There, guests tour his notorious poison garden and enjoy a lavish banquet. But when several diners fall violently ill and one dies, whispers of deadly berries and sinister plots spread quickly.
With her chef under suspicion and her reputation at risk, Georgie must untangle the threads of deceit before scandal – and danger – consume her household. All while preparing for the imminent arrival of her first child.
My Review Rating – 4 out of 5 stars.
A fun and clever addition to the Royal Spyness series. The witty humor, Gothic setting, and classic country-house mystery vibe shine, even if the pacing dips slightly in the middle.
What I Liked
The Setting
Bowen captures the feel of a golden-age house party with elegance and just the right touch of menace. The contrast between Georgie’s refined Eynsleigh estate and the eerie poison garden creates a delightful tension.
The Characters
Georgie remains witty, relatable, and clever, balancing the demands of aristocratic life with sleuthing skills. Darcy is his usual charming counterpart, and the supporting cast – including Sir Mortimer with his macabre garden – adds flavor and intrigue.
The Plot
A classic whodunit structure with a twist: everyone eats the same meal, but only one dies. The culinary angle and Georgie’s looming due date give the mystery extra urgency. The reveal is satisfying, tying together the poison motif with Bowen’s signature humor.
What I Disliked
The pacing lags a bit in the middle as the investigation circles around repetitive suspicions. The humor occasionally overshadows the tension, and readers wanting a darker or more suspenseful tone might find it too lighthearted. Still, for cozy mystery fans, it hits all the right notes.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Proof Of the Pudding by Rhys Bowen
Do you need to read The Royal Spyness series in order?
In my opinion, yet. While each book has its own mystery, reading them in order helps you enjoy Georgie’s evolving relationships and personal growth. That would be impossible if you didn’t read them in the order of publication.
Is this book darker than the others in the series?
While it features a poison garden and a Gothic guest, the overall tone remains light and cozy, consistent with the rest of the series.
Is there a strong focus on Georgie’s pregnancy?
Yes, her imminent motherhood adds warmth and urgency, but it doesn’t overshadow the mystery.
Conclusion
The Proof of the Pudding by Rhys Bowen is another delightful Royal Spyness mystery that blends charm, humor, and intrigue. With its playful poison-garden premise and Georgie stepping into new roles – both as a hostess and as a soon-to-be mother – it’s a cozy yet cleverly plotted read. Fans of the series will savor it, and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy in this witty, elegant mystery.
If you like the Royal Spyness series, consider reading some of Rhys Bowen’s other works too.
📚 Did You Know?
Rhys Bowen has been praised for blending real historical details with fictional charm. Poison gardens, like the one in this novel, actually exist in England – the most famous being at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, which inspired Bowen’s fictional version.
