Step into the gaslit streets of Victorian London with Cleopatra Fox, where amateur sleuthing meets high-society scandal! C.J. Archer’s Cleopatra Fox Mysteries is a delightful cozy mystery series that follows the sharp-witted Cleopatra 'Cleo' Fox as she unravels murders from her base at the luxurious Mayfair Hotel. Blending historical charm, intricate plots, and a dash of romance, this series captivates readers who crave a lighter take on the detective genre.
Set in the bustling 1899–1900 London, Cleo’s adventures offer a window into a world of debutante balls, gossip columns, and dark secrets. With her knack for solving crimes that stump Scotland Yard, Cleo is a heroine who defies societal norms while navigating family drama and the occasional flirtation. Ready to meet this intrepid detective? Let’s dive into her story!
How Cleopatra Fox Began
C.J. Archer, a USA Today bestselling author known for historical fantasy and mystery, launched the Cleopatra Fox Mysteries in 2020 with Murder at the Mayfair Hotel. Inspired by her love for Victorian England and classic detective tales, Archer crafted Cleo as a modern yet authentic heroine—a woman forging her path in a restrictive era. The series, now spanning ten books, emerged from Archer’s desire to blend cozy mystery’s accessibility with the rich backdrop of 19th-century London, creating a standalone saga distinct from her other works like the Glass and Steele series.
The Heart of Cleopatra Fox
The series kicks off with Murder at the Mayfair Hotel (2020), where Cleo, grieving her grandmother’s death, moves into her estranged uncle’s luxury hotel. A guest’s poisoning on Christmas Eve thrusts her into a web of suspicion, forcing her to outwit a charming assistant manager and save the hotel’s reputation. In Murder at the Piccadilly Playhouse (2021), Cleo tackles the death of a celebrated actress, uncovering jealousy and hidden affairs in London’s theater scene. Murder at the Debutante Ball (2022) sees her solve a high-society murder involving blackmail, while Murder on the Brighton Express (2024) races through a train-bound mystery laced with gossip and scandal.
Themes of independence, resilience, and justice thread through the series. Cleo, an orphaned heiress, challenges gender and class expectations, relying on her intellect and allies like hotel staff and detective Harry Armitage. Archer’s vivid settings—opulent hotels, smoky playhouses, and seaside piers—immerse readers in Victorian life, while her light, engaging prose balances suspense with humor. The slow-burn romance between Cleo and Harry adds spice without overshadowing the mysteries, making each book a cozy yet thrilling escape.
Why Cleopatra Fox Resonates
The Cleopatra Fox Mysteries have carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, offering a refreshing blend of historical accuracy and modern relatability. Fans on Goodreads and Audible praise Cleo’s wit and the series’ immersive settings, with over 1,000 reviews for the debut alone. Archer’s ability to weave Victorian culture—think gossip columns and societal pressures—into accessible narratives appeals to readers of Anne Perry or Deanna Raybourn. The series’ focus on a female sleuth breaking barriers resonates with those who love strong, nuanced heroines, ensuring Cleo’s adventures remain a beloved escape.
- First Book Published: 2020 (Murder at the Mayfair Hotel)
- Number of Books: 10 (as of 2025)
- Setting: London, 1899–1900
- Genres: Cozy Mystery, Historical Fiction
Grab Murder at the Mayfair Hotel and join Cleopatra Fox in her dazzling, danger-filled Victorian world! Whether you’re a cozy mystery fan or new to the genre, Cleo’s clever sleuthing will keep you hooked.