REVIEW: Murder by Firelight by Merryn Allingham

Murder by Firelight (A Flora Steele Mystery #12) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy mysteries, Historical mysteries

Read: 30th August 2025

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Amazon

Published: 4th September 2025

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

No one can hold a candle to amateur detectives Flora Steele and Jack Carrington as they ask the burning question… Who is the killer walking the cobbled streets of their historic little town?

Sussex, November 1959. There’s a chill in the air at the Lewes bonfire celebration. Carnival floats fill the narrow streets, fireworks crackle overhead, and Flora and Jack feel the heat of the burning torches lining the streets. But when Trevor French, chief of the Grove Bonfire Society, tumbles from his parade float, they know something is afoot. Trevor didn’t just fall – and amidst the crowds, his killer slips away through the smoke-filled night.

But who would want the respected Trevor dead? As Flora and Jack question the vying bonfire societies, they find a surprisingly competitive underbelly at play. Did Edwin Brooker, former chairman, stoke the flames of rivalry too far? Or are the tears of the victim’s friend, Leo Nelson, faked to keep himself safe?

Just as the sleuths believe they’ve figured it out, the body of a key suspect in the case is found dead on their hearth rug, and Flora and Jack realise that no one is safe – including themselves. Together, can they smoke the murderer out? Or will their chances of survival go up in flames?

A completely addictive and absolutely charming cozy mystery novel. Fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis will adore this unputdownable series!

MY THOUGHTS:

Flora and Jack are back in Abbeymead and are on the case of yet another murder! This place is getting as deadly as Midsomer (though maybe with not quite as many murders). 

In this twelfth book featuring the dynamic duo, Flora and Jack are attending a Bonfire Night celebration watching a parade of floats depicting various themes in vivid display. The streets of Lewes are crowded and noisy and are not at all the couple's favourite celebration but the atmosphere has them enthralled. In the midst of celebrations, one of the costumed participants falls from their float for a local historical society. When Jack races to their aid, he discovers the man is dead - seemingly stabbed, no less. 

Inspector Alan Ridley is on the case for but a short time when his replacement Inspector Brownlow (I got The Bill vibes from twenty five years back with that name...lol) takes over but proves to be nothing short of useless. Ridley's mother had a stroke and had taken ill so Alan had gone to care for her whilst Brownlow couldn't detect a snowflake in a blizzard. 

This time Flora is reluctant to investigate whilst Jack is keen to clear his friend Leo Nelson's name, whom Brownlow has decided is the guilty party whether the evidence points to him or not. Leo has taken on the tenancy of Overlay House where Jack had lived prior to his marriage to Flora and he isn't so sure that Leo is guilty and is determined to ensure the truth is uncovered. But the mystery is a real mystery as their doesn't appear to be any motive for the murder. The victim, Trevor French, whilst suspect in some eyes had no real cause to leave him dead. Although Edwin Brooker, who was chairman prior to French and had been for ten years until French came in a swept up the position. Brooker, an electrician by trade, is seemingly aggrieved at having been replaced so easily. But is it motive enough to kill?

Jack manages to convince Flora to question French's wife Lilian and local seamstress Thomasina Bell who was an active member of the Grove Society where Trevor was chairman and whose float he had fallen from. Again Flora was reluctant but some of the tidbits of information she garnered from the women whetted her appetite for the truth. But can they uncover the truth of what really happened to Trevor French and why before Brownlow can stuff it up?

I am so relieved to find Flora and Jack back in Abbeymead as the mysteries just seem to work better when they are on home ground. Unlike Agatha Christie's Miss Marple who worked well in any locale as well as St Mary Mead (but then Miss Marple didn't go abroad in my recollection), Flora and Jack are best at home in Abbeymead. In this book, Jack has finished his tenure at Cleve College in Lewes so the couple have now returned to Abbeymead full time, rather than part the week in Lewes and the rest in the village. I am keen to see what is in store for them in Abbeymead now that they are back in the village and the residents there can take on more of a role in future stories. I have missed the regular inclusion of Charlie who did resume his job as delivery boy temporarily in this one.

I can't believe this is the twelfth book of the series and I have read them all! Each book can be read as a standalone but I think the reader would gain more from reading them series in its entirety to fully grasp who is who and the passing mention of some of those who have gone before to some who pop up on occasion this time.

My only complaint is the inaccuracy of the ten pound pom programme mentioned in this book where people could emigrate to Australia for ten pounds (still quite a sum in those days). A character was said to have been part of the programme and emigrated twenty years before but as the setting is 1959 and the date the person emigrated is actually revealed in the book as being June 1939, the ten pound pom programme didn't begin until after the war in 1945.

I did guess who the murderer was but not the motive until it was gently revealed in passing (still long before the murderer was). There are plenty of twists and red herrings in this one to keep you guessing to the end...which does so with a bang!

I look forward to seeing what's in store for Flora and Jack now that they are firmly back in Abbeymead...where I hope they will stay!

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MurderByFirelight in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

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REVIEW: The Venice Murders by Merryn Allingham

The Venice Murders (Flora Steele #11) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy mystery

Read: 5th May 2025

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Published: 9th May 2025

★★★ 3 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Amateur detective and bookshop owner Flora Steele, and her dashing new husband Jack Carrington, are finally embarking on the honeymoon of a lifetime. But will gorgeous gondola rides be ruined by their most heart-stopping case ever?

Venice, 1959: As Flora and Jack step onto the beautiful, historic streets of Venice, they vow to put sleuthing aside to finally enjoy their honeymoon. But on their very first sun-soaked morning, whilst enjoying sparkling wine and mouthwatering pastries, they’re interrupted when hotel receptionist, Franco Massi, is discovered floating face-down in the Grand Canal.

Remembering poor Franco’s kind demeanour when they checked into the Cipriani Hotel, Flora quickly realises her honeymoon phase is over: she must solve the case. She saw a hot-headed restaurant owner arguing with Franco the night he died. Could their mysterious argument have gone too far? Or could it have been Franco’s jilted ex-fiancée Bianca, who acted so coldly at news of his death? Was it a crime of passion that sent him tumbling into the waters?

When Flora learns from a priest that a priceless painting has disappeared from his church along with his elderly housekeeper, she begins to marry together the clues that will lead her to a dangerous family that will stop at nothing to get their revenge. Will Flora and Jack crack the case before the killer claims another victim? Or will it be ‘death do us part’ for this crime-solving couple?

A completely gripping and totally charming cozy murder mystery novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and J.R. Ellis!

MY THOUGHTS:

Gorgeous gondola rides along the Grand Canal...and a murder on their doorstep...

Flora and Jack are finally embarking on their honeymoon of a lifetime! To beautiful Venice, gorgeous gondolas and cosy cafes in market squares. To anyone this is a trip of a lifetime, but when the hotel receptionist Franco Massi is found dead having drowned in the Grand Canal, the evening before, Flora can hardly resist the urge to investigate and uncover the truth. Jack is vehemently against it but when his mother's new husband Count Falconi arrives at their illustrious hotel to beg for their help in a cause of his own, he reluctantly agrees to see what they can do. Little, is what he hopes, unlike Flora who intends uncovering the truth.

But if a visit from an Italian count wasn't enough, then Jack's estranged mother Sybil pops up to put her two pence worth in, in the hope the couple would "do what they do" and help with the recovery of the church painting and the parish priest's housekeeper. Sounds a little like an episode of Father Brown with Flambeau hot on the trail of some illustrious treasure.

So with all that in mind, Flora is determined to get to the bottom of the murder and the disappearances of both the painting and the housekeeper, all of which she believes is linked to a village from which they all come.

While there is plenty of action and a lot going on in this book, I felt the location and all its attributes took away from the cosiness of the mystery which I found somewhat lacking this time round. I absolutely adore Jack and Flora and their sleuthing partnership, but I could have done without the Lonely Planet guide to Venice. 

This wasn't my favourite of the books and I must admit I was much happier to see Jack and Flora return home to Abbeymead and all the familiar nooks and crannies there. I can't wait to see what's in store for the couple in Book 12! I can hardly believe this is book 11, as it seems like yesterday we were introduced to Flora and the grumpy and reclusive crime fiction writer Jack.

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheVeniceMurders in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

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SPOTLIGHT: The Venice Murders by Merryn Allingham

 

The Venice Murders (Flora Steele #11) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy mystery

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 9th May 2025

DESCRIPTION:

Amateur detective and bookshop owner Flora Steele, and her dashing new husband Jack Carrington, are finally embarking on the honeymoon of a lifetime. But will gorgeous gondola rides be ruined by their most heart-stopping case ever?

Venice, 1959: As Flora and Jack step onto the beautiful, historic streets of Venice, they vow to put sleuthing aside to finally enjoy their honeymoon. But on their very first sun-soaked morning, whilst enjoying sparkling wine and mouthwatering pastries, they’re interrupted when hotel receptionist, Franco Massi, is discovered floating face-down in the Grand Canal.

Remembering poor Franco’s kind demeanour when they checked into the Cipriani Hotel, Flora quickly realises her honeymoon phase is over: she must solve the case. She saw a hot-headed restaurant owner arguing with Franco the night he died. Could their mysterious argument have gone too far? Or could it have been Franco’s jilted ex-fiancée Bianca, who acted so coldly at news of his death? Was it a crime of passion that sent him tumbling into the waters?

When Flora learns from a priest that a priceless painting has disappeared from his church along with his elderly housekeeper, she begins to marry together the clues that will lead her to a dangerous family that will stop at nothing to get their revenge. Will Flora and Jack crack the case before the killer claims another victim? Or will it be ‘death do us part’ for this crime-solving couple?

A completely gripping and totally charming cozy murder mystery novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and J.R. Ellis!

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

REVIEW: Murder in an English Castle by Merryn Allingham

Murder in an English Castle (A Flora Steele Mystery #10) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Historical mystery, Cosy mystery

Read: 17th November 2024

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Amazon

Published: 20th November 2024

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Flora Steele and Jack Carrington as they are called to a castle to unearth the clues of a murder most medieval…

Sussex, 1959. The sun is shining on the breathtaking castle as the Abbeymead Historical Society prepare their re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes. But the fun ends abruptly when council worker Alex Vicary falls to his death from the castle ramparts. A shadowy figure runs from the scene, but Alex was a beloved member of the community… who could possibly want him dead?

As Flora and Jack investigate further, they dig up troubles Alex kept buried from those closest to him. Perhaps he was pushed by his money-hungry landlord, Larry Morton, who was trying to sell Alex’s home? Or maybe his oldest and shiftiest friend, Bruce Sullivan, who gambled away the money Alex loaned him? Or could it be his wide-eyed new girlfriend, Diane Croft, who dodges questions about Alex’s death, and hides presents from another suitor?

But when Flora discovers an engagement ring among Alex’s possessions, she is stunned to learn that his relationship with Diane was more serious than everyone thought. With whispers of another man fighting for Diane’s heart, were the battle lines drawn for love?

Then the body of a second member of the society is found, and the pair realise time is running out. Will history repeat itself with yet another death? Or can Flora and Jack catch their killer before the medieval murderer bids them both adieu?

A totally compelling and absolutely charming cozy mystery novel. Fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis will adore this unputdownable series!

MY THOUGHTS:

A murder most medieval...

It's 1959 and the Historical Society is rehearsing their re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes when it all ends in tragedy. Alex Vicary falls to his death in front of many on-lookers who were unsure at first if this were part of the event. Until Jack Carrington and his wife Flora rush forward to assist and check for signs of life...of which there are none. Needless to say, the day ends on a sad note as the crowd disperses and the ambulance cart Alex off to the mortuary.

Some days later, Alex's best friend and sous chef at the Priory, Hector walks into the All's Well and begs Flora to help. He is sure his friend's death was murder and is certain he saw someone push him from the wall from which he was stood in the battle re-enactment. Jack was just as certain that it was an accident as was Inspector Alan Ridley so if Flora were to investigate it would be without the assistance of her husband.

She doesn't get far before Jack discovers her digging and insists on helping her if she is intent on looking into the poor man's death...even if just to set his friend's mind at rest. But they don't expect to uncover a wealth of secrets from blackmail to bullying to threats and another death! 

This is the tenth outing for Flora and Jack now happily married and planning a somewhat belated honeymoon in Venice in June. But somehow are found investigating yet another murder which they ultimately solve.

Filled with secrets, misunderstandings, red herrings and plenty of twists, this is another light read and a delight to revisit old friends in Abbeymead once again. 

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MurderInAnEnglishCastle in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

REVIEW: Murder at Cleve College by Merryn Allingham

Murder at Cleve College (A Flora Steele Mystery #9) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy Mysteries, Historical mystery

Read: 3rd October 2024

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Amazon

Published: 24th July 2024

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Bookshop owner Flora Steele and writer Jack Carrington fell in love solving mysteries. Now they’re taking their first steps as husband and wife… straight into their most perplexing case yet.

Sussex, 1958: A radiant Flora is being twirled across the dancefloor by her dashing new husband, Jack. It’s the perfect wedding in Abbeymead, until a mysterious stranger is found dead just outside the village.

But when Flora finds an envelope tucked into the man’s silver cigarette case, the address is key to discovering the poor chap’s name – Russell Farr. He isn’t known to any of the villagers, so at first all signs point to a tragic accident. That is, until they discover Farr previously worked at the esteemed Cleve College, where Jack is now a writer-in-residence.

The college has made Jack feel uneasy ever since he learned his predecessor drowned in its lake, and now it appears a second suspicious death is connected to it. But who would want two mild-mannered academics dead?

Could it be Jocelyn, the ambitious young teacher with her sights set on the top? Joe, the sly porter living beyond his means? Or perhaps Maurice, the college dean who seems far more interested in power than educating students?

Just when it looks like no amount of studying will crack this case, a chance encounter brings Flora closer to the truth. But when Jack goes missing, it seems someone is determined to teach them both a lesson.

Can Flora and Jack outwit the killer before they graduate to becoming the next victims? Or will their first case as husband and wife be their last?

An absolutely page-turning cosy mystery, packed with unforgettable characters and sensational twists! Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis.

MY THOUGHTS:

Amateur sleuths Flora Steele and writer Jack Carrington are back with yet another murder to solve...

This time the young couple discover a body in a ditch just a short distance from their home in Abbeymead (and not Cleve College as the title misguidingly suggests). The man has no identification on him nor is it anyone they know. With days out from their wedding, Flora and Jack hand the mystery over to Inspector Alan Ridley at Brighton CID and set to the exciting lead up to their big day.

And the day arrives but the joy is shortlived when Alan turns up at the reception and asks for Flora and Jack's assistance with the case that in his opinion has no leads whatsoever and going nowhere. Loathe to abandon their celebrations, the couple undertake investigations in lieu of a honeymoon and upon revisiting the crime scene, it isn't long before Flora discovers a letter with an address in Brighton...but no name. Leaving the All's Well in the capable hands of her new assistant Rose Lawson, Flora and Jack set off to Brighton and the address on the letter. They discover the occupant of the said flat, a Russell Farr, hasn't been seen for some weeks. Should they let the inspector know? Or should they sit on it for a few days and see what they come up with?

In the meantime, Jack has taken up a part time position at Cleve College in Lewes whilst Flora uses the time to visit a nearby town where she meets the effervescent Roberta Raffles. It isn't long before Flora finds that Roberta has inveigled her way into her life and she suspects the poor woman is a little lonely what with her own husband working away in London all week.

Jack meanwhile is trying to find his feet at Cleve College and while he enjoys the job, he is somewhat uneasy about some of the staff and goings on there. After all, his predecessor mysteriously drowned in the lake on the college's grounds. And then there is the handyman that appears to be following Jack and watching him at every turn. It's when attempts are made on Jack's life that the couple put their heads together to unravel the mystery of Russell Farr's demise in a village he has no connection to, the strange goings on at Cleve College and the mystery surrounding the abandoned Rillington orphanage.

Another delightful outing with the now Mr and Mrs Jack Carrington as they undertake yet another murder mystery to solve in the vein of Agatha Christie, Midsomer Murders and Father Brown combined. I admit with all the lead up to Flora and Jack's wedding, and Alice's take on it all, I was disappointed that it featured so little. Mid-chapter we seemed to get a rushed description of Flora walking down the aisle, nothing of the ceremony and a little of the reception celebrations afterwards until Alan shows up...in the middle of their wedding! I guess it's the romantic in me that just wanted to savour the romance of their big day a little more. But having said that, it is still an entertaining and exciting mystery that the couple have in front of them. Loads of speculation, a little evidence and bam! Flora has it solved. She is, after all, known for her hunches. Some of which are correct, while others are way off base.

Overall, another entertaining visit to Abbeymead. Though they ventured further afield to Brighton and Lewes this time, I must admit I prefer it (much like Alice) when they remain in the safe confines of their village...even if there is murder about!  Can't wait for the next one and see what's in store for the newly married couple.

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MurderAtCleveCollege in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 

REVIEW: The Library Murders by Merryn Allingham

The Library Murders (A Flora Steele Mystery #8) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy Mystery, Historical fiction

Read: 20th February 2024

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Amazon

Published: 20th February 2024

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Bookshop owner and amateur detective Flora Steele and her fiancé, crime writer Jack Carrington, discover words can kill as they solve their most puzzling case yet…

It’s a sunny morning in Abbeymead as Flora cycles through the village and knocks on the door of the local library, planning to deliver a gift to librarian Maud Frobisher to mark her retirement. But Flora is shocked when she finds Maud slumped in the corner, and even more startled when she recognises the man holding the murder weapon – an enormous hardback book.

Flora’s known Lowell Gracey since her college days, but what is he doing working for Maud and now the main suspect in her murder? Suspicion mounts when Flora and Jack discover that Lowell is heavily in debt, and that a priceless rare first edition has recently gone missing, but Lowell is adamant that he’s innocent, and Flora believes him.

The pair are once more drawn into an investigation, but who would kill a beloved librarian? Perhaps Rose Lawson, a mysterious newcomer to Abbeymead known to be in dire financial straits? Or pompous bestselling author Felix Wingrave, who rumours say would do anything to get his hands on a valuable book for his collection?

Then the village is rocked by the discovery of a second body. Flora and Jack realise a vital clue lies in the pages of a novel – but the plot is thickening and the killer is closing in…

Flora and Jack are determined to solve this fiendish case by the book – but will this be the end of their story?

A completely page-turning and addictive cozy crime mystery. Fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis will adore this unputdownable series!

MY THOUGHTS:

Abbeymead is once again awash with crime as it hosts it very own crime writing festival to rival Bloody Scotland!

As a bookshop owner, Flora Steele has been asked to host a stall at the event which is sure to garner much publicity and loads of sales for the All's Well. And as a crime writer in situ, Jack Carrington is well placed to help Basil Webb, founder of the Dirk and Dagger society, host the event and introduce its variety of crime writers. 

What no one expects is to find elderly librarian Maud Frobisher dead in her mobile library van on the morning the conference is due to start! And found by none other than amateur sleuth Flora! But then this is Abbeymead...

Inspector Ridley is called in from Brighton and it appears to be an open and shut case in his opinion but Flora is not so sure. Yes, she knows the person who she found standing over the body with a bloodstained copy of "Lord of the Rings" but she finds it difficult to believe that he is the killer. And so with Jack's help, she endeavours to dig deeper to find the real culprit.

It isn't long before another body turns up, this time in the Cross Keys pub, wrapped up tight like a mummy. Significant? Maybe. But what is even more surprising is the identity of the anonymous guest, now body in situ.

Flora and Jack must work doubly hard to prove the police's current suspect's innocence by digging deeper to uncover the real motive and real killer. But can they do so before it's too late? And with their own wedding to plan in their midst?

Another entertaining addition to this delightful cosy series in which Flora and Jack, and even Charlie Teague, endear the reader to become firm favourites that warm the heart. Another wonderful read that was quick to devour and thoroughly entertaining from start to finish.

Can't wait for book 9 and the prospect of Flora and Jack's upcoming nuptials. A murder at the wedding I see coming...

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheLibraryMurders in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 

REVIEW: Murder in a French Village by Merryn Allingham

Murder in a French Village (A Flora Steele Mystery #7) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy mystery

Read: 5th November 2023

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Amazon

Published: 30th October 2023

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Join bookshop owner Flora Steele and handsome writer Jack Carrington as they set off on a French adventure and solve a chilling crime!

Jack is stunned to receive a call from his estranged mother, Sybil, asking him to drop everything and come to France. Together with Flora, his fellow sleuth, they pack their suitcases, dreaming of fragrant lavender fields and freshly baked pain au chocolat. It’s only when they arrive that they discover the shocking truth – Sybil’s friend was killed on a street in Paris, and she is desperate for their help.

The case leads them to a picturesque village in the south of France where life should be rosé, but even the bright blue skies can’t hide the fact that something is very wrong. And the mystery only deepens when Flora discovers that Sybil was in fact the intended target. Who would want her out of the way?

Perhaps Sybil’s relationship with wealthy Italian count Massimo Falconi has something to do with it. His darling daughter Allegra, ruthless business partner Pascal and his jealous estranged wife Isabella all have reasons for revenge…

Then when another person in the small French town dies in suspicious circumstances, Flora is convinced the two untimely deaths must be connected. Just when the case seems impossible to crack, a chess box provides an unlikely clue.

Can Flora discover the truth before Sybil meets her end? Or could trouble in paradise spell a final au revoir for the detective duo?

A completely addictive cozy crime novel. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis!

MY THOUGHTS:

Another foray into this delightful cosy series featuring our favourite bookshop owner and crime writer, turned amatuer sleuths! This time they are called to France where Jack's estranged mother has summoned them after the sudden and untwoard death of her friend Ruby.

Upon arrival in France, after a somewhat rough crossing over the channel which saw Flora turning a shade of green, the crime fighting duo got straight to work investigating the hit and run on a Paris street with seemingly few answers. When Jack's mother Sybil announced that her betrothed, the count - Massimo Falconi - was whisking her back to the safe confines of Provence, Jack and Flora felt their answers lay further afield. For Flora, her reason for this trip (aside from accompanying Jack) was to see the graves of her parents that were apparently nestled within the south of France.

From Paris to Provence, inquiries lead the duo hot on the tail of a murderer intent on harm. But who wants to be rid of her mother? The count's former wife, Isabella, who is unable to let go? Or his daughters Allegra and Clio? Or maybe one of the many servants of the chateau? Or even the vineyard manager, who may have designs on inheriting the vineyard for himself? 

Soon Flora and Jack find themselves laden with suspects and no real motive. But if they are to prevent any further attempts on Sybil's or even Flora's lives, the sleuths must work fast to uncover the truth...and quickly!

Another delightful cosy mystery this time set mostly in France, with only the first and last chapters back in the safe confines of Abbeymead. But the promise in the final chapters allude to something bigger coming...and I for one am looking forward to it. I never tire of this series. It is light easy reading with a touch of humour.

While this isn't my favourite of the series, it is still an interesting adventure and opens up new doors for the crime fighting duo, making it an easy and enjoyable read. I look forward to the next one with baited breath!

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MurderInAFrenchVillage in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 

REVIEW: Murder at Abbeymead Farm by Merryn Allingham

Murder at Abbeymead Farm (A Flora Steele Mystery #6) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Cosy mystery

Read: 12th May 2023

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 16th May 2023

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Amateur detective duo Flora Steele and Jack Carrington have gained a reputation for crime-solving. But will they be able to untangle the latest baffling murder in the cosy village of Abbeymead?

Sussex, 1957: When Flora and Jack hear that Percy Milburn – a newcomer to the area who has ruffled more than a few feathers with his grand plans for modernising Abbeymead – is missing, they’re determined to find him. But after scouring the village, Flora is shocked to discover the body of the poor man in the cellar of a crumbling farmhouse.

Percy’s murder is tragic but not unexpected, as his ambition had made him many enemies within the small, rural community. Flora and Jack get stuck into the case, but they’re sent on a wild goose chase around the village. Whoever is behind the death has taken careful steps to cover their tracks…

Was it Miss Minnie Howden, the nervous housekeeper who loved Percy? Sir Frederick Neville, the owner of the farm Percy was trying to buy? Or Colin Palmer, made rich by Percy’s death? Did any of the suspects dislike Percy enough to end his life?

The amateur detective duo finds themselves outfoxed at every turn, unable to find any concrete clues. When their prime suspect is murdered, Flora and Jack have their work cut out to find the culprit. But the clever killer has pulled the wool over their eyes and is reeling them ever nearer to danger.

Will this case finally bring Flora and Jack closer together? And can they unravel the mystery before they’re led like lambs to the slaughter?

A completely addictive cozy crime novel set in the fictional Sussex village of Abbeymead. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis!

MY THOUGHTS:

The delightful Flora Steele and Jack Carrington are back as this series continues to entertain us from the sleepy village of Abbeymead in rural Sussex. And once again they become embroiled in another murder mystery on their hands...this time with baffling proportions. I'm guessing they will soon have a bodycount to rival Midsomer!

Abbeymead, April 1957: Since the discovery of a body in her bookshop the All's Well the previous summer, Flora Steele has had several murder mysteries fall into her lap and that she has insisted on solving...with the help of her dashing crime writer/sleuth Jack Carrington. And this time it's no different. 

Recently befriending newcomer Percy Milburn to the village, Flora is among the minority who like Percy. His plans for a nearby farm which he intended to turn into a hostel to enable those less affluent to afford to holiday in such a delightful village had locals raging. They didn't want any hostel cheapening or decimating their quiet village with riff-raff. So when he calls a meeting to discuss the plans in the village hall and then fails to attend, Flora is concerned. There is no way Percy would miss this opportunity to sell his idea to the villagers. So why didn't he?

Putting her thinking cap on, Flora began a process of elimination. Where was Percy last seen? Or rather, where was he supposed to be and also failed to show? A discussion of plans with the vendor at the abandoned farm at which Percy was a no-show. Or was he? Flora knows Percy wouldn't have ditched his plans so therefore something must have happened to him. And when she and Jack discover his remains in barrel of cider in the cellar of the old farmhouse, she is both shocked and dismayed. But she isn't surprised. Because she knew something had stopped Percy from attending both meetings at which his presence was expected. The question is - who?

And then a new buyer is miraculously found for the old farm...who has plans to build a new hotel, of which Abbeymead has no need. So what is really at play here? And whose palms are being greased to make this sale happen? 

This case has Flora and Jack similarly stumped. Enquiries take Jack to London where he does a little digging of his own, uncovering from rather unsettling surprises. Meanwhile, back in Abbeymead, someone seems to have it in for Flora as her bookshop is broken into yet again this time all her stock is not only vandalised but decimated. And then the rowan tree her aunt had planted in the front yard of their cottage which held special meaning to her is destroyed during the night. Who is after Flora? And why?

MURDER AT ABBEYMEAD FARM is the sixth book in this entertaining cosy series which is a cross between Agatha Christie's Miss Marple and Father Brown. Each one is a standalone mystery with a backstory that continues to evolve over time. As with each of the books, it is fun entertaining and a quick light read with plenty of twists. Though not my favourite of the series, it is still just as entertaining and just as much fun...and I cannot wait to rejoin Flora and Jack next time. Though I hope Flora isn't as troubled as she appeared in this one and soon makes peace with the news of her friend's upcoming wedding and that of her past.

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MurderAtAbbeymeadFarm in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 

REVIEW: The Secrets of Summerhayes by Merryn Allingham

The Secrets of Summerhayes (Summerhayes #2) by Merryn Allingham

Genre: Historical fiction, WW2

Read: 8th January 2023

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 11th January 2023

★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)

DESCRIPTION:

1944, England. A chance meeting with a soldier unravels a long-buried family mystery…

England is in the devastating grip of World War Two, and Bethany Merston’s life changes in an instant when bombs screech down over London. Heartbroken, she leaves the shattered ruins of her home behind. In the Sussex countryside, she takes a job as companion to elderly Alice Summer, mistress of the crumbling and over-grown Summerhayes House.

Its once-pristine grounds are now home to a regiment of soldiers preparing for an invasion across the channel. But Bethany’s wartime experiences mean she can find beauty in broken things, and she is captured by the estate’s magic. When she meets handsome, blue-eyed Lieutenant Jos Kerrigan in the gardens one morning, it is clear he has also been captivated by Summerhayes. As their friendship grows, Bethany realises that it’s not just the house she’s falling for…

But something is stirring beneath the surface at Summerhayes… When Bethany discovers that Alice is receiving anonymous letters that have opened up old family wounds, she is determined to find out who is responsible. Convinced that Summerhayes itself holds the key to the mystery, Bethany and Jos explore the grand house together.

The answers lie in a long-forgotten painting in the dusty attic, unravelling the mysteries of the Summer family. And as the truth about Alice’s past comes to light, it has the power to change Bethany’s future.

Will Bethany and Jos’s blossoming love survive the war, or will the secrets of Summerhayes tear them apart?

A totally heartbreaking and gripping wartime family saga, fans of Tracy Rees, Kate Morton and Elizabeth Jane Howard will have their hearts stolen by The Secrets of Summerhayes.

Previously published as The Secret of Summerhayes.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is the second book following on from "The Girl from Summerhayes" and it is just as good as the first. Following on yet set thirty years later, THE SECRETS OF SUMMERHAYES unravels the secrets that have been long been buried within the now crumbling estate and those that have gone beyond. And although the two follow on from the other, they can suffice as standalones with their own richly woven stories. But together they are like a tapestry of a bigger and more beautiful picture.

In the late spring of 1944, the Canadian army has set up base in the grounds of the Summerhayes estate which is now a crumbling manor surrounded by overgrown gardens. A sorry sight from the grandeur it had formerly enjoyed. Most of the house has been requisitioned by the army but in a small section in an apartment of suites lives the last remaining Summer of Summerhayes. Alice had once been the wife of Joshua Summer, who had built Summerhayes, and the mother of Elizabeth and William. Her former butler, Ripley, lives in one of the attic rooms whilst Bethany Merston was found as a companion for the elderly woman who is now in her eighties, and has her own room in Alice's apartment.

A trained school teacher, Bethany found herself without a job when the school in which she was working in the East End of London was bombed to smithereens in a night raid. The opportunity for a companion to Alice Summer came at just the right time and she was eager to take the position in the Sussex countryside. Her experience does not go astray however as she is soon engaged to teach young Ralph, son of Gilbert Fitzroy of the neighbouring Amberley estate, on every other day so as to not conflict with her care of Alice who is her main priority. But Gilbert finds every opportunity he can to visit Summerhayes whilst trying to entice Bethany to Amberley. But for reason, Beth wonders? He is married though his wife hightailed it to New York as soon as war was declared five year previously and to all intents and purposes shows no sign of returning. Is he looking to replace her? With Beth? Surely not!

Meanwhile, Ralph has taken a liking to one of the Canadians, Eddie Rich, but it is his comrade Lt Jos Kerrigan that has caught Beth's eye. But Jos' heart has been broken and hardened. He did not come to this country to find love but to assist Britain in its fight against Hitler. And Beth is sure he has taken an instant dislike to her though for what reason she doesn't know, so best to keep out of his way. Her job is busy enough with tutoring Ralph and taking care of Alice, who is seemingly more and more distressed with each passing day.

Thirty years ago, Alice's daughter Elizabeth disappeared in the middle of the night to elope with a former employee and has never been seen or heard from again. No one knows where she went and no one has ever heard anything from her since she left. Until now...

Alice has been receiving letters which have remained unsigned but have alluded to a return to Summerhayes. And each letter holds the promise that they will see her soon. Of course Alice is certain that it is her missing daughter Elizabeth. But why has she not written to her mother until now? Why go thirty years with no contact to suddenly announcing her return? With each letter received, Alice gets more and more distressed. She is seeing ghosts of the past at the window and taking falls in her panic and all the while gibbering about a long lost daughter who has long been thought to be dead.

And then one day in the attic a painting is discovered that holds the key to unlocking the secrets of the past...

A richly layered story of long buried secrets and a family feud, THE SECRETS OF SUMMERHAYES is a beautifully woven tale that is both enchanting and atmospheric. There is a dark and mysterious undercurrent that runs throughout as Beth realises she must do all she can to keep Alice safe from whatever sinister whispers are pulling the old woman.

Unlike the first book, this one features the war a little more with the focus on the upcoming invasion and D-Day landings. But it is still only a backdrop to a far bigger and more immersive story. And all that happens on the Summerhayes estate - both past and present - becomes an even bigger backdrop as Beth and Jos delve into the past to uncover the truth of what happened to Alice's daughter all those years ago.

THE SECRETS OF SUMMERHAYES is a completely absorbing and wholly immersive tale that will sweep you up in all its secrets and mysteries. And by the story's end, you will have uncovered what happened in the time between the end of "The Girl from Summerhayes" and its sequel, which is bittersweet and emotive. I had already figured it out long before the halfway mark but that only sweetened the journey. The fun was in watching the others figure it out.

THE SECRETS OF SUMMERHAYES was truly a delight to read, as was "The Girl from Summerhayes". I thoroughly enjoyed both tales, together and on their own. While I rate them both the same, I think I might have enjoyed this one just a little bit more due to the mystery of Elizabeth's disappearance and what may have happened to her. But overall, a truly wonderful easy read.

I would like to thank #MerrynAllingham, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheSecretsOfSummerhayes in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads 

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram