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Flora Steele Mystery #10
Murder in an English Castle
It’s time to rewrite history with amateur detectives 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!
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!
270 pages, ebook
First published November 20, 2024
About the author
Merryn Allingham
39 books263 followersI was born into an army family and spent my childhood moving around the UK and abroad. Unsurprisingly it gave me itchy feet and in my twenties I escaped an unloved secretarial career to work as cabin crew and see the world.
I still love to travel and visit new places, especially those with an interesting history, but the arrival of marriage, children and cats meant a more settled life in the south of England, where I've lived ever since. It also gave me the opportunity to go back to 'school' and eventually teach at university.
I've written seven historical novels, all mysteries with a helping of suspense and a dash of romance - sometimes set in exotic locations and often against a background of stirring world events.
My latest novel, A Tale of Two Sisters, is set in Constantinople at the turn of the 20th century when rebellion within the Ottoman Empire is growing ever louder. Against this background the novel traces the fate of two sisters, Alice and Lydia Verinder, and explores themes of family, love and loss.
I still love to travel and visit new places, especially those with an interesting history, but the arrival of marriage, children and cats meant a more settled life in the south of England, where I've lived ever since. It also gave me the opportunity to go back to 'school' and eventually teach at university.
I've written seven historical novels, all mysteries with a helping of suspense and a dash of romance - sometimes set in exotic locations and often against a background of stirring world events.
My latest novel, A Tale of Two Sisters, is set in Constantinople at the turn of the 20th century when rebellion within the Ottoman Empire is growing ever louder. Against this background the novel traces the fate of two sisters, Alice and Lydia Verinder, and explores themes of family, love and loss.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 22, 2024
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining!
1959, Sussex
It has been six months since Flora and Jack married. They settled into married life, and things seem to be going well. The couple, along with friends, attends the rehearsal of the re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes to support another friend. The Abbeymead Historical Society seems to have a great done job. The castle ruins serve the purpose well.
However, one of the actors and Society members, Alex Vicary, falls to his death during the rehearsal. Everyone thinks it’s accidental. However, Hector is determined that it is murder and someone pushes his dear friend.
As the sleuthing reluctantly takes up the case, they realize that quite a few people have reasons to see Alex dead. Anyone could have killed him. As things get complicated, Flora and Jack need to find the killer before they become victims.
The story comes in Flora and Jack’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
Though the book works as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the previous two books to get a better idea of the characters and their friendship with others in the story.
Flora and Jack have gotten into a rhythm, dividing their days between Lewes and Abbeymead. While it is not all flowers and roses, things are decent and soon they can go on their honeymoon to Venice (possibly the next book).
The recurring side characters in the series do their bit here too. Alice is grumbling but efficient. Kate is busy with her baby girl and the diner. Inspector Alan has too much paperwork and not enough time.
The side drama is handled without too much conflict or unwanted displays of emotion, though we can feel the tension between the characters. There’s just enough to make things a bit uncomfortable for some of them. All a part of life!
The mystery begins right away with the murder in the prologue. The details are revealed in stages and the suspect list grows/ changes accordingly. It’s Flora who does the majority of the work this time. Jack is less involved though he does manage to step in when absolutely necessary. Maybe in the next book, he’ll get back to proper sleuthing.
To summarize, Murder in an English Castle is an easy cozy mystery with some history, secrets, danger, and dead bodies. As always, the book is fairly short and has a steady pace. Looking forward to the next one!
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
One Liner: Entertaining!
1959, Sussex
It has been six months since Flora and Jack married. They settled into married life, and things seem to be going well. The couple, along with friends, attends the rehearsal of the re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes to support another friend. The Abbeymead Historical Society seems to have a great done job. The castle ruins serve the purpose well.
However, one of the actors and Society members, Alex Vicary, falls to his death during the rehearsal. Everyone thinks it’s accidental. However, Hector is determined that it is murder and someone pushes his dear friend.
As the sleuthing reluctantly takes up the case, they realize that quite a few people have reasons to see Alex dead. Anyone could have killed him. As things get complicated, Flora and Jack need to find the killer before they become victims.
The story comes in Flora and Jack’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
Though the book works as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the previous two books to get a better idea of the characters and their friendship with others in the story.
Flora and Jack have gotten into a rhythm, dividing their days between Lewes and Abbeymead. While it is not all flowers and roses, things are decent and soon they can go on their honeymoon to Venice (possibly the next book).
The recurring side characters in the series do their bit here too. Alice is grumbling but efficient. Kate is busy with her baby girl and the diner. Inspector Alan has too much paperwork and not enough time.
The side drama is handled without too much conflict or unwanted displays of emotion, though we can feel the tension between the characters. There’s just enough to make things a bit uncomfortable for some of them. All a part of life!
The mystery begins right away with the murder in the prologue. The details are revealed in stages and the suspect list grows/ changes accordingly. It’s Flora who does the majority of the work this time. Jack is less involved though he does manage to step in when absolutely necessary. Maybe in the next book, he’ll get back to proper sleuthing.
To summarize, Murder in an English Castle is an easy cozy mystery with some history, secrets, danger, and dead bodies. As always, the book is fairly short and has a steady pace. Looking forward to the next one!
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
November 18, 2024
This is the tenth book in the Flora Steele mystery series and I have read and enjoyed every one of them.
Jack and Flora are married now and they make a good team. They are attending a reenactment of an historic battle when someone falls to their death from the battlements - an accident? Or were they pushed? Initially our intrepid pair are not on the same side for this case. Jack wants it to be an accident for a quiet life. Flora has her doubts. Guess who wins this argument!
This is a very well written series with excellent characters and there is always a clever mystery to solve. I enjoyed this book the most out of the series so far! I hope there will be many more. Five stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Jack and Flora are married now and they make a good team. They are attending a reenactment of an historic battle when someone falls to their death from the battlements - an accident? Or were they pushed? Initially our intrepid pair are not on the same side for this case. Jack wants it to be an accident for a quiet life. Flora has her doubts. Guess who wins this argument!
This is a very well written series with excellent characters and there is always a clever mystery to solve. I enjoyed this book the most out of the series so far! I hope there will be many more. Five stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 16, 2024
The old castle where Jack Carrington and his new wife, Flora Steele, were watching the Abbeymead Historical Society doing their re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes, was filled with noise and excitement. But the sudden clash of wooden swords, and the slow motion fall of a young man to the rocks below, was not part of the re-enactment. What had happened? Was it a dreadful accident, or had Alex Vickery been pushed?
It was 1959 in Sussex, England, and Flora and Jack were looking forward to their upcoming honeymoon in Venice. But with the police declaring the death at the castle was an accident, and one of his good friends begging Flora to investigate as he knew it wasn't an accident, she and Jack decided to check things out. And discover discrepancies they did. But did they have enough information to oust the killer?
Murder in an English Castle is the 10th in the Flora Steele Mystery series by Merryn Allingham and it was light, fun and entertaining. Flora and Jack are a great couple, and suit each other well. The usual characters of this series are continued, with a few new ones added in. I'm enjoying the series very much, and recommend it highly.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
It was 1959 in Sussex, England, and Flora and Jack were looking forward to their upcoming honeymoon in Venice. But with the police declaring the death at the castle was an accident, and one of his good friends begging Flora to investigate as he knew it wasn't an accident, she and Jack decided to check things out. And discover discrepancies they did. But did they have enough information to oust the killer?
Murder in an English Castle is the 10th in the Flora Steele Mystery series by Merryn Allingham and it was light, fun and entertaining. Flora and Jack are a great couple, and suit each other well. The usual characters of this series are continued, with a few new ones added in. I'm enjoying the series very much, and recommend it highly.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
November 21, 2024
My thanks to Sarah Hardy at Bookouture for a review copy of the book via NetGalley.
My guess as to where this book would be set turned out to be wrong (though I’m fairly certain the next one is taking us to that location) and we’re in Flora and Jack’s village of Abbeymead again where Flora, Jack, and Flora’s assistant at the shop, Rose Lawson are witnessing a reenactment of the Battle of Lewes at Lewes Castle, in which their friends, Hector Lansdale, sous chef at the Priory and Sally Jenner, proprietor of the hotel are participating as members of a historical reenactment group, the Knights of Mercia. As the battle unfolds, however, one of the players seems to lose his footing and falls right off the topmost castle wall—to his death. The victim is Alex Vicary, a friend of Hector and while the police write off the incident as accidental, a conclusion Flora and Jack are inclined to believe (for a change), Hector is adamant it was anything but. When no convincing can change Hector’s mind, Flora decides to gently prod the matter with the different people involved, if only to convince Hector that this was an accident after all.
Of course, once she starts, much begins to be revealed. While Alex was generally a well-liked young man, there were plenty who might want him out of the way—his (and his mother’s) landlords, the Mortons who are seeking to repossess their house and put it to more profitable use, any contract that protects the Vicarys notwithstanding; Diane Croft, Alex’s girlfriend whom he was over-possessive about and was pressuring into marriage who’s feeling suffocated; and Kenneth Buckley, a dashing lawyer who’s out to claim Diane for himself, among them. Soon enough, it isn’t just Flora (and Jack) but also Jack’s friend, Inspector Alan Ridley who become convinced that there was foul-play involved. Inquiring into a murder is never innocuous business and when there is more than one nasty figure involved, be it the Mortons or Buckley, the path to finding the answer can be dangerous as both Flora and Jack find.
All this plays out as Flora is dividing her time between her bookshop the All’s Well and volunteer work at a school as does Jack his mystery writing and student mentorship at Cleve College. But of course, they do spend half the week at Abbeymead and we get a chance to catch up with happenings in the village from the new arrivals to new relationships and developments.
In Murder in an English Castle, Allingham gives us an exciting mystery with plenty of suspects, all of whom had reason to want Alex out of the way. Whether they had the opportunity (most of them being present at the site) and took it, is what Flora and Jack must work out. With so many suspects in the mix, one is certainly kept guessing as to who might have done it, though I did manage to eventually pick up a clue which set me in the right direction (after a related incorrect guess previously). But while I might have got it right, it was great fun reading on to see whether I did and how Flora and Jack would reach the answers (and how things panned out for the characters involved). Like in some previous instalments, both Flora and Jack are targeted along the way, and only just escape terrible harm.
With the characters involved in the mystery scattered across Lewes, Brighton, and Abbeymead, the story finds Flora and Jack travelling to all three places. And this time, we are also treated to some historical detail (besides that which comes with the 1950s setting of this series) in the form of the reenactment which brings up the Battle of Lewes, dating back to 1264 where Simon de Montfort, Sixth Earl of Leicester managed to defeat Henry III.
As always, in Abbeymead I enjoyed catching up with people who are now pretty much old friends, Kate who runs the local café, the Nook with her husband Tony; Alice Jenner, Sally’s aunt and chef at the Priory and Charlie Teague, Jack’s old errand and garden boy, who might be growing up and learning new skills but is still hungry as ever. Much has changed in the village since we first visited it in The Bookshop Murder, but seeing these take place over the books is much like having lived in the village alongside the characters as time passed and lives changed with it.
Murder in an English Castle is another wonderful entry in the Flora Steele series with a nicely done mystery against an interesting background and likeable characters, making for a very enjoyable reading experience! As before, I was once again in awe of how fast Allingham writes these—the third one I’m reviewing this year. Not long before the next, I’m sure. I’m keenly waiting!
My guess as to where this book would be set turned out to be wrong (though I’m fairly certain the next one is taking us to that location) and we’re in Flora and Jack’s village of Abbeymead again where Flora, Jack, and Flora’s assistant at the shop, Rose Lawson are witnessing a reenactment of the Battle of Lewes at Lewes Castle, in which their friends, Hector Lansdale, sous chef at the Priory and Sally Jenner, proprietor of the hotel are participating as members of a historical reenactment group, the Knights of Mercia. As the battle unfolds, however, one of the players seems to lose his footing and falls right off the topmost castle wall—to his death. The victim is Alex Vicary, a friend of Hector and while the police write off the incident as accidental, a conclusion Flora and Jack are inclined to believe (for a change), Hector is adamant it was anything but. When no convincing can change Hector’s mind, Flora decides to gently prod the matter with the different people involved, if only to convince Hector that this was an accident after all.
Of course, once she starts, much begins to be revealed. While Alex was generally a well-liked young man, there were plenty who might want him out of the way—his (and his mother’s) landlords, the Mortons who are seeking to repossess their house and put it to more profitable use, any contract that protects the Vicarys notwithstanding; Diane Croft, Alex’s girlfriend whom he was over-possessive about and was pressuring into marriage who’s feeling suffocated; and Kenneth Buckley, a dashing lawyer who’s out to claim Diane for himself, among them. Soon enough, it isn’t just Flora (and Jack) but also Jack’s friend, Inspector Alan Ridley who become convinced that there was foul-play involved. Inquiring into a murder is never innocuous business and when there is more than one nasty figure involved, be it the Mortons or Buckley, the path to finding the answer can be dangerous as both Flora and Jack find.
All this plays out as Flora is dividing her time between her bookshop the All’s Well and volunteer work at a school as does Jack his mystery writing and student mentorship at Cleve College. But of course, they do spend half the week at Abbeymead and we get a chance to catch up with happenings in the village from the new arrivals to new relationships and developments.
In Murder in an English Castle, Allingham gives us an exciting mystery with plenty of suspects, all of whom had reason to want Alex out of the way. Whether they had the opportunity (most of them being present at the site) and took it, is what Flora and Jack must work out. With so many suspects in the mix, one is certainly kept guessing as to who might have done it, though I did manage to eventually pick up a clue which set me in the right direction (after a related incorrect guess previously). But while I might have got it right, it was great fun reading on to see whether I did and how Flora and Jack would reach the answers (and how things panned out for the characters involved). Like in some previous instalments, both Flora and Jack are targeted along the way, and only just escape terrible harm.
With the characters involved in the mystery scattered across Lewes, Brighton, and Abbeymead, the story finds Flora and Jack travelling to all three places. And this time, we are also treated to some historical detail (besides that which comes with the 1950s setting of this series) in the form of the reenactment which brings up the Battle of Lewes, dating back to 1264 where Simon de Montfort, Sixth Earl of Leicester managed to defeat Henry III.
As always, in Abbeymead I enjoyed catching up with people who are now pretty much old friends, Kate who runs the local café, the Nook with her husband Tony; Alice Jenner, Sally’s aunt and chef at the Priory and Charlie Teague, Jack’s old errand and garden boy, who might be growing up and learning new skills but is still hungry as ever. Much has changed in the village since we first visited it in The Bookshop Murder, but seeing these take place over the books is much like having lived in the village alongside the characters as time passed and lives changed with it.
Murder in an English Castle is another wonderful entry in the Flora Steele series with a nicely done mystery against an interesting background and likeable characters, making for a very enjoyable reading experience! As before, I was once again in awe of how fast Allingham writes these—the third one I’m reviewing this year. Not long before the next, I’m sure. I’m keenly waiting!
November 26, 2024
I always look forward to returning to Sussex with Jack and Flora, and this book didn’t disappoint. The historical details, the castle setting, and the re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes create such an atmospheric backdrop for the mystery. Alex Vicary’s death was both tragic and puzzling, and I found myself constantly second-guessing who might be behind it. The twists kept me on my toes!
One of the things I love most about this series is how real the characters feel. Flora and Jack’s relationship has grown so much over the books, and I appreciated how this one focused on them working through their differences. Jack’s reluctance to get involved and Flora’s determination to figure things out on her own felt so true to their personalities. It’s these little touches that make their dynamic so enjoyable to follow.
The writing is as sharp as ever, with a great mix of suspense and humor. I loved how the historical details were sprinkled throughout—it made the setting come alive without slowing the story down. While this book stands on its own, I’d recommend starting with the earlier ones to really appreciate the depth of the characters.
This was an exciting yet cozy read, perfect for a weekend escape. I’m already looking forward to seeing what’s next for Jack and Flora!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
One of the things I love most about this series is how real the characters feel. Flora and Jack’s relationship has grown so much over the books, and I appreciated how this one focused on them working through their differences. Jack’s reluctance to get involved and Flora’s determination to figure things out on her own felt so true to their personalities. It’s these little touches that make their dynamic so enjoyable to follow.
The writing is as sharp as ever, with a great mix of suspense and humor. I loved how the historical details were sprinkled throughout—it made the setting come alive without slowing the story down. While this book stands on its own, I’d recommend starting with the earlier ones to really appreciate the depth of the characters.
This was an exciting yet cozy read, perfect for a weekend escape. I’m already looking forward to seeing what’s next for Jack and Flora!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 22, 2024
Alex Vicary has fallen to his death. Was it an accident or was it intentional? When bookshop owner Flora Carrington is asked to find out what really happened to the victim, she definitely agrees to help. She won’t be alone in her endeavors, as she and her new husband Jack begin looking for answers. Still newlyweds, currently Flora and Jack are splitting their time between their two residences due to their respective jobs and things are working out fairly well.
Knowing that Flora and Jack are seasoned investigators, a friend of the victim, Hector, pleads with Flora for her help to find the killer of Alex Vicary. Not so convinced as to why Alex has fallen to his death, Flora isn’t convinced as to why Alex fell to his death, so she agrees to help Hector, even though she told Jack she’d stay away from solving crimes. In fact, volunteering, as well as her bookshop responsibilities, Flora barely has the time. But, she is experienced and know where to go for answers, and that begins with where the victim died. It was at the rehearsal of a play, so that is where the suspect pool begins for Flora. Quite naturally, Jack quickly joins his wife in her endeavors.
Each of these books in the Flora Steele Mystery series can indeed be read as standalone novels. However, it may be beneficial to read at least a few of the preceding titles, as there is continuity that flows between the books in the series. I have consistently enjoyed Flora’s adventures, and I appreciate that Jack can temporarily suspend his writing to assist his wife. This is a thoroughly enjoyable story and an excellent addition to an equally enjoyable series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this book for review. This is my honest opinion.
Knowing that Flora and Jack are seasoned investigators, a friend of the victim, Hector, pleads with Flora for her help to find the killer of Alex Vicary. Not so convinced as to why Alex has fallen to his death, Flora isn’t convinced as to why Alex fell to his death, so she agrees to help Hector, even though she told Jack she’d stay away from solving crimes. In fact, volunteering, as well as her bookshop responsibilities, Flora barely has the time. But, she is experienced and know where to go for answers, and that begins with where the victim died. It was at the rehearsal of a play, so that is where the suspect pool begins for Flora. Quite naturally, Jack quickly joins his wife in her endeavors.
Each of these books in the Flora Steele Mystery series can indeed be read as standalone novels. However, it may be beneficial to read at least a few of the preceding titles, as there is continuity that flows between the books in the series. I have consistently enjoyed Flora’s adventures, and I appreciate that Jack can temporarily suspend his writing to assist his wife. This is a thoroughly enjoyable story and an excellent addition to an equally enjoyable series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this book for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 23, 2024
It should be noted that there could be triggers for addiction and domestic abuse for some in this storyline.
The rehearsal for an upcoming Abbeymead Historical Society battle re-enactment is in full swing when a soldier falls from the top of the Lewes Castle ruins. Rushing to help, Flora and Jack Carrington know immediately there is nothing they can do to help. When the police decide it's an unfortunate accident, the victim’s best friend asks Flora for help and reluctantly she agrees to investigate further. The clues she and Jack discover lead them to suspect the police were a little hasty and after danger begins stalking everyone involved another body is found and they know time could be running out for them both!
Book ten in this great series has reached the Spring of 1959 and once again the author transports you back to the middle of the last century seemingly effortlessly, although I know it absolutely isn't. I loved all the little mentions of things which were once second nature in households and have now disappeared into the annals of domesticity. They merge seamlessly into a complicated murder case which highlights areas not routinely discussed just before the decade of the swinging sixties and, as the differing threads came together, it resulted in a very satisfying conclusion.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this.
The rehearsal for an upcoming Abbeymead Historical Society battle re-enactment is in full swing when a soldier falls from the top of the Lewes Castle ruins. Rushing to help, Flora and Jack Carrington know immediately there is nothing they can do to help. When the police decide it's an unfortunate accident, the victim’s best friend asks Flora for help and reluctantly she agrees to investigate further. The clues she and Jack discover lead them to suspect the police were a little hasty and after danger begins stalking everyone involved another body is found and they know time could be running out for them both!
Book ten in this great series has reached the Spring of 1959 and once again the author transports you back to the middle of the last century seemingly effortlessly, although I know it absolutely isn't. I loved all the little mentions of things which were once second nature in households and have now disappeared into the annals of domesticity. They merge seamlessly into a complicated murder case which highlights areas not routinely discussed just before the decade of the swinging sixties and, as the differing threads came together, it resulted in a very satisfying conclusion.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this.
November 27, 2024
Rok 1959. W miasteczku Lewes we wschodnim hrabstwie Sussex Flora Steele ze swoim niedawno poślubionym małżonkiem Jackiem Carringtonem spędzają pół tgodnia. On, popularny autor powieści kryminalnych, prowadzi kurs kreatywnego pisania w tamtejszym koledżu Cleve, jej, właścicielce księgarni w pobliskiej wiosce Abbeymead, udało się zatrudnić w miasteczkowej podstawówce. Co roku na zamku w Lewes odbywa się 14 maja widowisko rekonstrukcyjne upamiętniające historyczne wydarzenie z roku 1264, kiedy to z wojskami króla Henryka III starły się oddziały rebeliantów pod wodzą barona Simona de Montforta.
Podczas próby generalnej imprezy, miesiąc przed rocznicą Bitwy pod Lewes, dochodzi do tragedii. Z wieży warownej zamku spada i ginie zakuty w zbroję ze znakiem białego krzyża - symbolu sojuszników Montforta, niejaki Alex Vicary. Policja uznaje, że był to wypadek. Ale wspólny przyjaciel Alexa i Carringtonów, sous chef w Priory Hotel w Abbeymead, Hector Lansdale jest przekonany, że ktoś Alexa ze stołpu zepchnął. Do Flory i Jacka, początkowo sceptycznych wobec tezy Hectora, dociera coraz więcej informacji o ludziach, którym mogło zależeć na śmierci Alexa.
Grono potencjalnych morderców jest spore. Są wśród nich autorzy i uczestnicy rekonstrukcji ze stowarzyszenia Knights of Mercia, nie tylko rycerze, także co najmniej jedna dama dworu królewskiego, której związek miłosny z Alexem przeżywał ostatnio ostry kryzys. Choć na celowniku detektywów-amatorów znajduje się również rywal Alexa, znany adwokat i podrywacz, intuicja śledcza Flory i Jacka przemawia nie za za miłosnymi lecz raczej za merkantylnymi motywami zabójstwa. Tu czołowe miejsca zajmują właściciele domku wynajmowanego przez matkę denata, chcący doprowadzić do eksmisji lokatorów, aby móc go sprzedać bogatym deweloperom. Muszą też Carringtonowie uwzględnić w swym dochodzeniu relacje finansowe, jakie łączyły Alexa z różnymi podejrzanymi osobnikami, co mogło być źródłem szantażu każdej ze stron.
Dochodzenie jak dochodzenie, dużo rozmów z podejrzanymi i nie tylko, mnóstwo główkowania, kolejne zabójstwo oraz - tak też często w kryminałach autorki bywa - nieprzyjemne przygody pary detektywów świadczące, że sprawcę/ów ich węszenie mocno zirytowało. Za to rozwiązanie zagadki poprzedzają dość niezwykłe, nieprzewidywalne okoliczności.
Po dominującym od dłuższego czasu w moich lekturach natłoku torturowanych ofiar i różnej maści psycholi cosy mysteries Merryn Allingham zawsze mnie wprawiają w lepszy nastrój. Obok ich atrakcji, opisywanych w opiniach na temat poprzednich tomów, w tym prawdziwe dla mnie wyzwanie stanowiły historia i … architektura. O Bitwie pod Lewes musiałam się uczyć na studiach, ale niewiele pamiętałam. Natomiast mimo prób odtworzenia scenerii pierwszej zbrodni nadal nie wiem, czy wieża, która w niej pełniła kluczową rolę to stołp czy donżon. No i trochę mnie rozbawiła informacja, że historyczne rekonstrukcje są nie tylko polskim bzikiem.
W każdym razie po rozwiązaniu zagadki morderstw w tomie nr 10, Flora i Jack będą wreszcie mogli spędzić miesiąc miodowy w Wenecji. Chyba jednak niezbyt spokojny, skoro tytuł kolejnego tomu, zapowiadanego na maj 2025, brzmi „The Venice Murders”.
Podczas próby generalnej imprezy, miesiąc przed rocznicą Bitwy pod Lewes, dochodzi do tragedii. Z wieży warownej zamku spada i ginie zakuty w zbroję ze znakiem białego krzyża - symbolu sojuszników Montforta, niejaki Alex Vicary. Policja uznaje, że był to wypadek. Ale wspólny przyjaciel Alexa i Carringtonów, sous chef w Priory Hotel w Abbeymead, Hector Lansdale jest przekonany, że ktoś Alexa ze stołpu zepchnął. Do Flory i Jacka, początkowo sceptycznych wobec tezy Hectora, dociera coraz więcej informacji o ludziach, którym mogło zależeć na śmierci Alexa.
Grono potencjalnych morderców jest spore. Są wśród nich autorzy i uczestnicy rekonstrukcji ze stowarzyszenia Knights of Mercia, nie tylko rycerze, także co najmniej jedna dama dworu królewskiego, której związek miłosny z Alexem przeżywał ostatnio ostry kryzys. Choć na celowniku detektywów-amatorów znajduje się również rywal Alexa, znany adwokat i podrywacz, intuicja śledcza Flory i Jacka przemawia nie za za miłosnymi lecz raczej za merkantylnymi motywami zabójstwa. Tu czołowe miejsca zajmują właściciele domku wynajmowanego przez matkę denata, chcący doprowadzić do eksmisji lokatorów, aby móc go sprzedać bogatym deweloperom. Muszą też Carringtonowie uwzględnić w swym dochodzeniu relacje finansowe, jakie łączyły Alexa z różnymi podejrzanymi osobnikami, co mogło być źródłem szantażu każdej ze stron.
Dochodzenie jak dochodzenie, dużo rozmów z podejrzanymi i nie tylko, mnóstwo główkowania, kolejne zabójstwo oraz - tak też często w kryminałach autorki bywa - nieprzyjemne przygody pary detektywów świadczące, że sprawcę/ów ich węszenie mocno zirytowało. Za to rozwiązanie zagadki poprzedzają dość niezwykłe, nieprzewidywalne okoliczności.
Po dominującym od dłuższego czasu w moich lekturach natłoku torturowanych ofiar i różnej maści psycholi cosy mysteries Merryn Allingham zawsze mnie wprawiają w lepszy nastrój. Obok ich atrakcji, opisywanych w opiniach na temat poprzednich tomów, w tym prawdziwe dla mnie wyzwanie stanowiły historia i … architektura. O Bitwie pod Lewes musiałam się uczyć na studiach, ale niewiele pamiętałam. Natomiast mimo prób odtworzenia scenerii pierwszej zbrodni nadal nie wiem, czy wieża, która w niej pełniła kluczową rolę to stołp czy donżon. No i trochę mnie rozbawiła informacja, że historyczne rekonstrukcje są nie tylko polskim bzikiem.
W każdym razie po rozwiązaniu zagadki morderstw w tomie nr 10, Flora i Jack będą wreszcie mogli spędzić miesiąc miodowy w Wenecji. Chyba jednak niezbyt spokojny, skoro tytuł kolejnego tomu, zapowiadanego na maj 2025, brzmi „The Venice Murders”.
November 17, 2024
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.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
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.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
November 30, 2024
Murder in an English Castle is the tenth novel in Merryn Allingham's Flora Steele Mystery series. It's not necessary to have read the previous books as each mystery is a stand-alone. However, the ongoing development of the characters adds such richness to these stories and will be more meaningful to those who have followed the series since the start. Nevertheless, it is perfectly feasible to begin here and to quickly feel at home among the residents of Abbeymead.
Abbeymead, though, isn't the only home for Flora and her new husband, Jack; following events in the previous book, Murder at Cleve College, they live half of each week in an apartment in Lewes provided by the college. Jack is still working there as writer-in-residence but he finds it hard to balance it with his writing career. Meanwhile, Flora is still struggling with being away from Abbeymead and her beloved bookshop. It's perhaps not surprising then, that she should soon be persuaded to look more closely at the tragic death of Alex Vicary, despite the police being quick to decide it was a terrible accident.
Following in a long line of cosy crime amateur sleuths, Flora and Jack have a knack of being present when somebody is murdered. They are at Lewes Castle to watch the Knights of Mercia, a local historical re-enactment society, in their final rehearsal for their grand re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes. The dramatic spectacle comes to a horrible conclusion, however, when Alex falls to his death. All the evidence seems to point to it being an accident but his friend, Hector is convinced otherwise. A restless Flora is eager to embark on a new adventure but even though they aren't always immediately forthcoming with what they have discovered, Merryn Allingham never leaves readers in any doubt as to the strength of the Carrington's marriage, and although more reluctantly, Jack proves himself a stalwart supporter once again.
As they begin to investigate Alex's life and try to figure out who could have wanted him dead, suspicion falls on his fellow members of the Knights of Mercia. It transpires that several of the people who were near to him at that fatal moment have secrets which could be the motive behind the murder. To muddy the waters still further, his mother is also being threatened by their greedy landlord and his violent son. This is a complex case with no obvious resolution and Merryn Allingham cleverly places seeds of doubt about all the potential culprits which meant I wasn't able to figure out who the murderer was until almost the end.
With the body count rising and both Flora and Jack finding themselves in dangerous situations, Murder in an English Castle is a gripping, immersive read from start to finish. The suspense and drama is balanced by the warmth and humour which is the trademark of this series and I'm sure I'm not the only reader who keeps returning to find out how the villagers are getting on, as well as to relish another cleverly structured murder mystery. The insightful portrayal of life in the 50s is excellent too; from the lighthearted mentions of television sets and newly published books to the more thought-provoking examination of societal attitudes of the time – most notably towards divorced women. Jack and Flora are headed for Venice soon for their long overdue honeymoon and I can't wait to discover what adventures await them in Italy! I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in an English Castle and recommend it to all cosy mystery lovers.
Abbeymead, though, isn't the only home for Flora and her new husband, Jack; following events in the previous book, Murder at Cleve College, they live half of each week in an apartment in Lewes provided by the college. Jack is still working there as writer-in-residence but he finds it hard to balance it with his writing career. Meanwhile, Flora is still struggling with being away from Abbeymead and her beloved bookshop. It's perhaps not surprising then, that she should soon be persuaded to look more closely at the tragic death of Alex Vicary, despite the police being quick to decide it was a terrible accident.
Following in a long line of cosy crime amateur sleuths, Flora and Jack have a knack of being present when somebody is murdered. They are at Lewes Castle to watch the Knights of Mercia, a local historical re-enactment society, in their final rehearsal for their grand re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes. The dramatic spectacle comes to a horrible conclusion, however, when Alex falls to his death. All the evidence seems to point to it being an accident but his friend, Hector is convinced otherwise. A restless Flora is eager to embark on a new adventure but even though they aren't always immediately forthcoming with what they have discovered, Merryn Allingham never leaves readers in any doubt as to the strength of the Carrington's marriage, and although more reluctantly, Jack proves himself a stalwart supporter once again.
As they begin to investigate Alex's life and try to figure out who could have wanted him dead, suspicion falls on his fellow members of the Knights of Mercia. It transpires that several of the people who were near to him at that fatal moment have secrets which could be the motive behind the murder. To muddy the waters still further, his mother is also being threatened by their greedy landlord and his violent son. This is a complex case with no obvious resolution and Merryn Allingham cleverly places seeds of doubt about all the potential culprits which meant I wasn't able to figure out who the murderer was until almost the end.
With the body count rising and both Flora and Jack finding themselves in dangerous situations, Murder in an English Castle is a gripping, immersive read from start to finish. The suspense and drama is balanced by the warmth and humour which is the trademark of this series and I'm sure I'm not the only reader who keeps returning to find out how the villagers are getting on, as well as to relish another cleverly structured murder mystery. The insightful portrayal of life in the 50s is excellent too; from the lighthearted mentions of television sets and newly published books to the more thought-provoking examination of societal attitudes of the time – most notably towards divorced women. Jack and Flora are headed for Venice soon for their long overdue honeymoon and I can't wait to discover what adventures await them in Italy! I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in an English Castle and recommend it to all cosy mystery lovers.
October 26, 2024
This is another entertaining mystery in the Flora Steele Myster series set in the late 1950’s in Sussex.
Flora and Jack have settled into married life and are becoming more comfortable with their time being divided between the village of Abbeymead where Flora runs the All’s Well bookshop and Cleve College where Jack is writer in residence. Jack is happy concentrating on his college work and trying to get his new novel started. However, Flora is missing a sense of adventure and when questions are asked about an apparently accidental death at a battle re-enactment, she is keen to get involved.
The setting and historical details are excellent as always and I love the way that it just gets dropped into the story and gives a real picture of how people lived then. I really enjoyed the way Flora struggled with the oven in their college accommodation restricting what she could cook. It’s quite surprising how often they ended up just eating cheese on toast.
The mystery of whether Alex fell off the castle battlements or was pushed is an intriguing one. We have a new cast of characters which includes the members of the re-enactment society as well as familiar people in the village such as Rose, Flora’s assistant in the bookshop. This time the mystery involved some of Flora and Jack’s friends. The sous chef at the local hotel was the best friend of the dead man and Rose becomes reluctantly involved with one of the suspects. This interweaving of different strands made this an enjoyable read.
Although this was an entertaining read, there were darker elements too. A theme through the book was how women still found it difficult to be independent at that time. We see a widow who is being threatened with eviction by a bullying landlord and two women who are being pressured into relationships that they really don’t want.
One of the things I love is how Jack and Flora’s relationship has developed across this series. In this book, Jack is very reluctant to get involved and Flora begins by investigating on her own. The couple have to work through their differences especially when it appears that their lives are being threatened.
This remains one of my favourite cosy crime series and I’m already looking forward to the next instalment. My thanks as always to Net Galley and Bookouture for inviting me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Flora and Jack have settled into married life and are becoming more comfortable with their time being divided between the village of Abbeymead where Flora runs the All’s Well bookshop and Cleve College where Jack is writer in residence. Jack is happy concentrating on his college work and trying to get his new novel started. However, Flora is missing a sense of adventure and when questions are asked about an apparently accidental death at a battle re-enactment, she is keen to get involved.
The setting and historical details are excellent as always and I love the way that it just gets dropped into the story and gives a real picture of how people lived then. I really enjoyed the way Flora struggled with the oven in their college accommodation restricting what she could cook. It’s quite surprising how often they ended up just eating cheese on toast.
The mystery of whether Alex fell off the castle battlements or was pushed is an intriguing one. We have a new cast of characters which includes the members of the re-enactment society as well as familiar people in the village such as Rose, Flora’s assistant in the bookshop. This time the mystery involved some of Flora and Jack’s friends. The sous chef at the local hotel was the best friend of the dead man and Rose becomes reluctantly involved with one of the suspects. This interweaving of different strands made this an enjoyable read.
Although this was an entertaining read, there were darker elements too. A theme through the book was how women still found it difficult to be independent at that time. We see a widow who is being threatened with eviction by a bullying landlord and two women who are being pressured into relationships that they really don’t want.
One of the things I love is how Jack and Flora’s relationship has developed across this series. In this book, Jack is very reluctant to get involved and Flora begins by investigating on her own. The couple have to work through their differences especially when it appears that their lives are being threatened.
This remains one of my favourite cosy crime series and I’m already looking forward to the next instalment. My thanks as always to Net Galley and Bookouture for inviting me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 23, 2024
Murder in an English Castle by Merry Allingham is a Flora Steele mystery, well Flora Carrington now. Flora and Jack were always a nice couple but their marriage had awakened the intimacy that they were missing, which is shown in small ways, not overtly. Eve and Jack are live in their tiny apartment at Cleve College several days a week so that Jack will not have to make the commute. Flora is volunteering at a primary school there, working with children on reading and she is enjoying it. One weekend when they are at home they join their friends to watch a rehearsal of his re-enactment group, the Knights of Mercia, reliving the battle between de Montford and King Henry. Eve was clueless. All’s Well, her bookshop, was closed as everyone in town was here. All of a sudden a young man went over the wall in what was clearly not part of the performance. He was dead. Even Jack’s friend, Inspector Alan Ridley, declared it an accident., but Hector, Alex’s friend, and sous chef at the manor hotel, disagreed and asked Jack and Flora for help.
Jack thought it was clear cut and he was too busy so Flora went off on her own, an action which was to cause Jack much guilt when it was all over. It was a complicated case. Alex, the dead man, believed himself about to get engaged. The young lady involved thought he was too controlling and had no intention of marrying. Alex’s mother was about to get evicted from her home of many years so the landlord could raze the house and develop it. The owner’s son had been applying some heavy handed methods in order to get them to comply. Alex was a hard worker and saved his money. But, it seemed he had lent some of it out. Was that the motive? Flora continued to investigate, around her life with Jack and her commitments. Was she successful? A fun read. A time with which I am not terribly familiar and a way of life that is now long dead. It is always a good read.
I was invited to read Murder in an English Castle by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #MerryAllingham #MurderInAnEnglish Castle
Jack thought it was clear cut and he was too busy so Flora went off on her own, an action which was to cause Jack much guilt when it was all over. It was a complicated case. Alex, the dead man, believed himself about to get engaged. The young lady involved thought he was too controlling and had no intention of marrying. Alex’s mother was about to get evicted from her home of many years so the landlord could raze the house and develop it. The owner’s son had been applying some heavy handed methods in order to get them to comply. Alex was a hard worker and saved his money. But, it seemed he had lent some of it out. Was that the motive? Flora continued to investigate, around her life with Jack and her commitments. Was she successful? A fun read. A time with which I am not terribly familiar and a way of life that is now long dead. It is always a good read.
I was invited to read Murder in an English Castle by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #MerryAllingham #MurderInAnEnglish Castle
November 17, 2024
I thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance reader copy of Murder in an English Castle. All opinions and comments are my own.
A reenactment rehearsal of the Battle of Lewes proves deadly for one of the participants in Murder in an English Castle, the latest Flora Steele and Jack Carrington mystery, set in 1950’s Sussex. Officially the death is just an unfortunate accident, but the man’s friend, also a friend to Flora and Jack, is convinced otherwise. And although she’d rather be running her bookstore, and Jack thinks that it’s a bad idea, Flora agrees to conduct one of the informal investigations that she’s really, really good at. And we’re off, as Flora puts it, “on another adventure!”
Merryn Allingham offers up a mixture of solid “police work” and plenty of background; the deceased had reasons that people may have wanted him dead. There are supporting characters that are helping and hindering, and providing motive, including those old standbys -- love and money and revenge, age-old incentives for murder. It takes time, and a bunch of leg work, and amateur detectives they may be, but Flora and Jack put everything together and come up with the name of a desperate killer. Now they can relax and go on their long delayed Italian honeymoon.
And since this is a continuing series, should mention that our protagonists have their hands full dealing with the drama that surrounds the lives of their friends and neighbors, and their own questions and concerns about what lies ahead for the two of them. Ms. Allingham knows that fans of the books are invested in these characters and what’s happening with them. In Murder in an English Castle, she makes sure that readers won't be disappointed.
A reenactment rehearsal of the Battle of Lewes proves deadly for one of the participants in Murder in an English Castle, the latest Flora Steele and Jack Carrington mystery, set in 1950’s Sussex. Officially the death is just an unfortunate accident, but the man’s friend, also a friend to Flora and Jack, is convinced otherwise. And although she’d rather be running her bookstore, and Jack thinks that it’s a bad idea, Flora agrees to conduct one of the informal investigations that she’s really, really good at. And we’re off, as Flora puts it, “on another adventure!”
Merryn Allingham offers up a mixture of solid “police work” and plenty of background; the deceased had reasons that people may have wanted him dead. There are supporting characters that are helping and hindering, and providing motive, including those old standbys -- love and money and revenge, age-old incentives for murder. It takes time, and a bunch of leg work, and amateur detectives they may be, but Flora and Jack put everything together and come up with the name of a desperate killer. Now they can relax and go on their long delayed Italian honeymoon.
And since this is a continuing series, should mention that our protagonists have their hands full dealing with the drama that surrounds the lives of their friends and neighbors, and their own questions and concerns about what lies ahead for the two of them. Ms. Allingham knows that fans of the books are invested in these characters and what’s happening with them. In Murder in an English Castle, she makes sure that readers won't be disappointed.
November 24, 2024
When Flora and Jack are invited to watch the final rehearsal of a re-enactment society’s battle at a ruined castle, they think it will be a pleasant diversion; unfortunately, one of the actors suddenly falls to his death during the rehearsal. Everyone, including the police, considers this to be a tragic accident, except for the man’s best friend who is convinced that the man was pushed. Flora and Jack reluctantly agree to investigate, and they soon discover that although they are told that the man had been universally liked, there are some people who might have held a grudge. When a second member of the re-enactment society is killed and both Flora and Jack are menaced in separate incidents, they realize that they must take their investigation far more seriously…. This is the tenth book in this cozy series, set in an English village in the late 1950s. Bookshop owner Flora and her husband Jack, a writer, are engaging characters and the secondary villagers are also well-drawn. I had trouble with a few anachronisms here (for example, a person about to be evicted is looking for a new place to rent, but discovers that rents are “way too expensive” for her to afford; in 1959 rural England, if the topic was raised at all surely the speaker would have expressed herself with something along the lines of “much too dear” for her); these kinds of things tend to drive me nuts, but I persevered and ended up enjoying the story once again. This is a series that really requires one to start at the beginning (“The Bookshop Murder”) as all the relationships evolve from book to book; with that caveat, recommended.
November 19, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Merryn Allingham for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder in an English Castle coming out November 20, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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 Dianewas more serious than everyone thought. With whispers of another man fighting for Diane’s heart, were the battle lines drawn for love?
I have a few books in this series, but this is the first one I’ve read. I really enjoyed historical cozy mysteries. I don’t normally read ones set in the 1950s, so that was a nice change for me. I loved the setting. English castles are amazing. I thought Flora and Jack were really interesting characters. They worked well together and supported each other. I loved the mystery. I would definitely read more books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries!
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 Dianewas more serious than everyone thought. With whispers of another man fighting for Diane’s heart, were the battle lines drawn for love?
I have a few books in this series, but this is the first one I’ve read. I really enjoyed historical cozy mysteries. I don’t normally read ones set in the 1950s, so that was a nice change for me. I loved the setting. English castles are amazing. I thought Flora and Jack were really interesting characters. They worked well together and supported each other. I loved the mystery. I would definitely read more books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries!
December 30, 2024
An historical re-enactment of a battle ends in tragedy when one of the participants falls from the ruins. Everyone thinks it is a terrible accident until Alex's best friend convinces Flora and Jack to investigate...
Murder in an English Castle is the 10th book in the Flora Steele series of murder mysteries set in the 1950s.
Flora and Jack are enjoying the experience of the battleground when Alex falls. His best friend Hector is sure that someone pushed his friend and the amateur sleuths begin to agree that the circumstances are suspicious. Suddenly they expose a range of suspects with a variety of potential motives but things get more complicated when another body is found.
We are straight into the action at the battle site at the start of the book but it then takes some time for the death to be recognised as murder. Alex appears to have no enemies at first but gradually his issues with various characters come to light. On the personal side of the plot, Flora and Jack are still negotiating married life and their work schedules. As always, I enjoyed the historical context of the series and thought that the Sussex village was brought to life.
Murder in an English Castle is an enjoyable historical murder mystery.
Murder in an English Castle is the 10th book in the Flora Steele series of murder mysteries set in the 1950s.
Flora and Jack are enjoying the experience of the battleground when Alex falls. His best friend Hector is sure that someone pushed his friend and the amateur sleuths begin to agree that the circumstances are suspicious. Suddenly they expose a range of suspects with a variety of potential motives but things get more complicated when another body is found.
We are straight into the action at the battle site at the start of the book but it then takes some time for the death to be recognised as murder. Alex appears to have no enemies at first but gradually his issues with various characters come to light. On the personal side of the plot, Flora and Jack are still negotiating married life and their work schedules. As always, I enjoyed the historical context of the series and thought that the Sussex village was brought to life.
Murder in an English Castle is an enjoyable historical murder mystery.
December 1, 2024
SCORE!
Okay, so I was getting annoyed with Flora for a while there, but now I think perhaps I was too harsh on her. Seeing her growing into her role as wife... genius. And now that she's relaxing (while still being herself), everything seems to fit together so much better.
And this mystery itself was excellent. There were several perfectly reasonable suspects that all worked well. Usually, when you find people who "could be the one," you don't really believe ALL of them could. In this one, there were three solid options in my opinion, and then there were two others that I wondered if we'd get a bunch more info near the end. The ONLY reason I chose the right person was because one tiny thing happened that made me go, "Well, that would be a reason for that... if this person did it... yeah..." So I chose that as my reason, but it wasn't very scientific. And voila! By the time I figured out I was "right," there were more solid options behind it. Still...
Loved it. Can't wait for the next now.
Okay, so I was getting annoyed with Flora for a while there, but now I think perhaps I was too harsh on her. Seeing her growing into her role as wife... genius. And now that she's relaxing (while still being herself), everything seems to fit together so much better.
And this mystery itself was excellent. There were several perfectly reasonable suspects that all worked well. Usually, when you find people who "could be the one," you don't really believe ALL of them could. In this one, there were three solid options in my opinion, and then there were two others that I wondered if we'd get a bunch more info near the end. The ONLY reason I chose the right person was because one tiny thing happened that made me go, "Well, that would be a reason for that... if this person did it... yeah..." So I chose that as my reason, but it wasn't very scientific. And voila! By the time I figured out I was "right," there were more solid options behind it. Still...
Loved it. Can't wait for the next now.
November 3, 2024
In general, I liked it, but since I joined the saga in this 10th installment, I felt a bit lost at first. The initial chapters were full of unfamiliar names for me and complicated relationships, which nearly made me set the book aside. However, since I received it from the publisher for review, I decided to continue reading.
I was hooked when the couple visited Alex’s mother and Jack and Morton quarreled. Set in 1959, I especially enjoyed the college night porter's behavior. There are several moments like these that made the story highly enjoyable.
As a couple, Jack and Flora didn’t have much chemistry in this book. I wonder if this relies on previous installments where they develop their romance, as they are newlyweds in this one.
Overall, the development of the narrative is interesting. Although sometimes slow, but the twists are creative and logical, well intertwined and the end is satisfying, with a hint of what/where will be the next episode.
Extended version soon in: https://iswidbooks.blogspot.com/
Thank you to #Bookouture and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read #MurderinanEnglishCastle in exchange for this review.
I was hooked when the couple visited Alex’s mother and Jack and Morton quarreled. Set in 1959, I especially enjoyed the college night porter's behavior. There are several moments like these that made the story highly enjoyable.
As a couple, Jack and Flora didn’t have much chemistry in this book. I wonder if this relies on previous installments where they develop their romance, as they are newlyweds in this one.
Overall, the development of the narrative is interesting. Although sometimes slow, but the twists are creative and logical, well intertwined and the end is satisfying, with a hint of what/where will be the next episode.
Extended version soon in: https://iswidbooks.blogspot.com/
Thank you to #Bookouture and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read #MurderinanEnglishCastle in exchange for this review.
November 16, 2024
Spring 1959 & the Historical Society is rehearsing their re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes. But the fun ends abruptly when Alex Vicary falls to his death from the castle ramparts. Alex’s best friend sous chef Hector asks Flora and Jack investigate further as he is certain Alec was pushed.
The tenth outing for Jack & Flora and another well written cosy mystery. Whilst it could easily be read on its own I’ve loved how relationships between the regular cast members have grown & developed. There are secrets, misunderstandings, twists, turns & red herrings until the villain is uncovered. The newly wed couple investigate on their own until the police realise Alec’s death was no accident. One of the highlights of the book was Flora tackling a solicitor in his office. I thoroughly enjoyed the book & look forward to the next
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The tenth outing for Jack & Flora and another well written cosy mystery. Whilst it could easily be read on its own I’ve loved how relationships between the regular cast members have grown & developed. There are secrets, misunderstandings, twists, turns & red herrings until the villain is uncovered. The newly wed couple investigate on their own until the police realise Alec’s death was no accident. One of the highlights of the book was Flora tackling a solicitor in his office. I thoroughly enjoyed the book & look forward to the next
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
November 21, 2024
A rehearsal for a battle re-enactment ends in tragedy for one participant; it is ruled accidental, but a friend and witness suspects foul play. Persuaded to investigate, Flora and Jack soon find numerous suspects and reasons for a suspicious death. It is another engaging book in this 1950s murder mystery series that focuses on the intricacies of relationships and the darker side of domestic life. The investigation is detailed but well-paced, and the suspense builds to an impactful conclusion. I like the relationship dynamics that make this story engaging, the historical references that create an authentic mid-twentieth-century setting and the twisty mystery that keeps you reading.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
October 15, 2024
Flora Steele the bookshop and her husband Jack Carrington is the writer in residence at Cleve College.
While attending a reenactment at the local castle they witness one of the participants fall to his death. Did he fall or was he pushed? That's what they are moved to find out. Jack thinks not until an attempt has been made on his own life after a difficult inquiry into a possibility. Good read.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected advance review copy from Bookouture via NetGalley.
Avail Nov 20, 2024
#MurderInAnEnglishCastle #NetGalley #FloraSteeleMysteriesBk10 #Bookouture #Merryn Allingham
While attending a reenactment at the local castle they witness one of the participants fall to his death. Did he fall or was he pushed? That's what they are moved to find out. Jack thinks not until an attempt has been made on his own life after a difficult inquiry into a possibility. Good read.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected advance review copy from Bookouture via NetGalley.
Avail Nov 20, 2024
#MurderInAnEnglishCastle #NetGalley #FloraSteeleMysteriesBk10 #Bookouture #Merryn Allingham
November 10, 2024
Everything was all change in the previous book where Jack and Flora split their time between Abbeymead and the All’s Well bookshop and Cleve College where Jack has a position tutoring and monitoring English students.
Becoming more settled, on a day out they watch a re-enactment at Lewes Castle from the local historical society. When a man falls from the top of the ramparts. Did he fall or was he pushed? Flora suspects foul play but the police say otherwise and it isn’t until a friend asks her for help that she becomes more involved.
However others are aware of Flora and a reluctant Jack’s interest and it seems there might be trouble for them both as well. Even back home in Abbeymead where characters from the historical society seem to suddenly appear and making their presence known.
With all this mystery it is easier to forget what else these books are telling us of life in the later Nineteen Fifties. Domesticity was very different than it is now and whilst Flora and Jack’s relationship is quite modern by the standards of the day the book is set in. It does contain other characters who have a very different view and this adds to some of the plot and some of the other characters who are becoming more frequent in this series.
I look forward as this series moves on and see what Flora and Jack get up to next.
Becoming more settled, on a day out they watch a re-enactment at Lewes Castle from the local historical society. When a man falls from the top of the ramparts. Did he fall or was he pushed? Flora suspects foul play but the police say otherwise and it isn’t until a friend asks her for help that she becomes more involved.
However others are aware of Flora and a reluctant Jack’s interest and it seems there might be trouble for them both as well. Even back home in Abbeymead where characters from the historical society seem to suddenly appear and making their presence known.
With all this mystery it is easier to forget what else these books are telling us of life in the later Nineteen Fifties. Domesticity was very different than it is now and whilst Flora and Jack’s relationship is quite modern by the standards of the day the book is set in. It does contain other characters who have a very different view and this adds to some of the plot and some of the other characters who are becoming more frequent in this series.
I look forward as this series moves on and see what Flora and Jack get up to next.
October 10, 2024
Flora and Jack attend a dress rehearsal of reenactment of a battle in a castle ruin.To their horror, they see their friend fall from the battlement to his death. Amidst a battle scene, was his fall an accident or murder? Flora agrees to look into the death and runs into unsavory characters and more than one possible motive for murder. Jack does some sleuthing, too, and the solution is definitely a surprise!
A cozy historical mystery set in 1959, Murder in an English Castle is a relaxing read with great characters and a good mystery.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
A cozy historical mystery set in 1959, Murder in an English Castle is a relaxing read with great characters and a good mystery.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 26, 2024
Set in the 1950s, this it the tenth book in the Flora Steele Murder series.
While attending battle re-enactment, they Flora and her husband Jack see a participant fall to his death. Their friend is convinced that Alex did not fall accidentally but rather that he was pushed. Flora and Jack agree to investigate and look into the death and unearth Alex’s secrets.
I could not focus on the plot of the book, the plot and dialogue are very strange and feel very forced and often nonsensical.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
While attending battle re-enactment, they Flora and her husband Jack see a participant fall to his death. Their friend is convinced that Alex did not fall accidentally but rather that he was pushed. Flora and Jack agree to investigate and look into the death and unearth Alex’s secrets.
I could not focus on the plot of the book, the plot and dialogue are very strange and feel very forced and often nonsensical.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
November 16, 2024
A death during a historical re-enactment in 1959 Sussex throws Flora and Jack into a murder investigation. As they uncover the victim’s hidden secrets and tangled relationships, a second body is found, forcing them to race against time to catch a killer before another death occurs.
This is a well-constructed mystery, full of intrigue with likable characters. While the book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the series in order.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is a well-constructed mystery, full of intrigue with likable characters. While the book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the series in order.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 9, 2024
Flora and Jack go to a rehearsal for the Battle of Lewes. Their friend Hector is on of the fighters at the Castle. He and his friend Alex seem to be winning the battle, when all of a sudden Alex falls off the walls and is found dead. Hector claims that Alex was pushed and wants Flora and Jack to investigate, but Flora isn't sure as they are getting ready to finally take their delayed honeymoon to Venice. Also, the police believe it was an accident rather than a murder. Flora makes a visit to Alex's mother and finds the nasty landlord had wanted Alex and his mother to move out so he could sell the house. Then, there is the friend who had borrowed money from Alex and now has lost it all gambling. Flora finds A wedding ring in Alex's room. Was he really serious about getting married. When another member of the society putting on the play is found dead, they wondered if he knew too much about what happened to Alex. Maybe Alex was murdered!
When both Flora and Jack have bad accidents, they realize they may be getting close to solving the murder, but can they do so before they are attacked again? This is a very clever story.
I thank Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC so that I could read it before publication.
When both Flora and Jack have bad accidents, they realize they may be getting close to solving the murder, but can they do so before they are attacked again? This is a very clever story.
I thank Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC so that I could read it before publication.
November 27, 2024
Another great entry into this series set in Sussex in the 1950s. The plot is a complex one with a lot of red herrings and twists and turns which made it difficult to guess who the murderer was until the end. It was nice to catch up with Jack and Flora after the wedding to see how they are settling into wedded bliss together as well. An entertaining read as always. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 28, 2024
Historical reenactment gone awry.
Jack and Flora attend the reenactment of a battle at a local castle when one of the participants fall to his death amid the battle action. But is it an accident or a murder? The victim’s best friend requests an investigation and Flora and Jack get involved. Set in the 1950s in a small English village, newlyweds Jack and Flora have established their ability to solve a mystery.
Jack and Flora attend the reenactment of a battle at a local castle when one of the participants fall to his death amid the battle action. But is it an accident or a murder? The victim’s best friend requests an investigation and Flora and Jack get involved. Set in the 1950s in a small English village, newlyweds Jack and Flora have established their ability to solve a mystery.
December 2, 2024
Not my favourite in the series which is a shame because I was so excited to get back to abbeymead and live the life of flora and Jack!
I found the storyline disinteresting. Zoned out a lot throughout. Full of characters I wasn’t familiar with or that bothered had been murdered. Because of this i found i wasn’t trying to solve the murder along side them. Still a lovely series but I don’t think anything was gained by this one sadly.
I found the storyline disinteresting. Zoned out a lot throughout. Full of characters I wasn’t familiar with or that bothered had been murdered. Because of this i found i wasn’t trying to solve the murder along side them. Still a lovely series but I don’t think anything was gained by this one sadly.
January 6, 2025
This is one of those books that hooks you so you can't put it down because you have to know who did it. A young man dies during one of the action of doing a re-enactment of a battle. But we have one friend who does not think it was an accident. We have more murders, attempted murder and the past comes to haunt one character. This was a fun book.I finisshed this book quickly because I'm snowed in - (smile)
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