by Julianna Deering
Christian Mystery
Paperback, 320 pages
March 4th 2014 by Bethany House Publishers
Drew Farthering wanted nothing more than to end the summer of 1932 with the announcement of his engagement. Instead, he finds himself caught up in another mysterious case when the family solicitor is found murdered, an antique hatpin with a cryptic message, Advice to Jack, piercing his chest.
Evidence of secret meetings and a young girl's tearful confession point to the victim's double life, but what does the solicitor's murder have to do with the murder of a physician on the local golf course? Nothing, it would seem--except for another puzzling note, affixed with a similar-looking bloodied hatpin.
Soon the police make an arrest in connection with the murders, but Drew isn't at all certain they have the right suspect in custody. And why does his investigation seem to be drawing him closer and closer to home?
Other Books in the Series:
I loved this book! As soon as I started reading it, I knew it would be hard to put down. I enjoyed everything about it: the time period--1930's, the location--London (Farthering St. John), a compelling mystery (hatpin murderer), an obstinate aunt, humor, polite society and a light, clean romance.
Drew Farthering wants to marry Madeline Parker, an American. Madeline's Aunt Ruth has come to visit and to hopefully take Madeline back home with her. Drew has his hands full trying to win over Aunt Ruth and help in the investigation of the murder of his family solicitor (attorney). Soon, however, there are more bodies and the pattern seems to point to Drew as being the next victim. Will he be able to figure out what's happening before the killer closes in?
I loved Drew! He's smart, clever and witty. I enjoyed his friendship with Nick and his romance with Madeline. It was light and sweet. She hasn't given him an answer to his marriage proposal and he doesn't pressure her but lets her come to her decision when she's ready. At one point, Madeline meets another American man, Freddie Bell and he hangs out with them for a while, and even though Drew was jealous, he didn't let it show.
It was difficult to figure out who the killer was and I actually didn't so I was surprised at the reveal. The back stories of the suspects were interesting and there was a lot going on. I loved Drew's relationship with Inspector Birdsong. Inspector Birdsong begrudgingly allows Drew to help with the investigation and they have some humorous exchanges.
I didn't read the first book in the series so I missed when Drew and Madeline first met each other. I felt like enough background was given that I didn't feel lost but would love to read the first book to get a better feel for their relationship and more background on Drew's family. I'm excited to see there's a third book which will be available in July and look forward to reading more about Drew, Madeline and Nick!
My Rating=5 Stars
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ALL readers, who are interested, can receive an autographed bookmark.
You can see a picture of the bookmark here.
Just send a self-address STAMPED (7" long) envelope to:
Julianna Deering
P. O. Box 375
Aubrey, Texas 76227
P. O. Box 375
Aubrey, Texas 76227
From the author regarding the fabulous GIVEAWAY:
How could one possibly have a cozy mystery
set in an old manor house in the English countryside near a quaint little village
and not have tea?
Drew doesn't usually take lemon or milk in his. He prefers honey,
especially if it's fresh from the hive.
Mrs. Devon, his housekeeper, spoils him terribly and makes sure he has it.
Print copies of The Rules of Murder and Death by the Book and a Tea Gift Basket (US ONLY)
3 comments:
I like different kinds of tea sweet tea, lemon tea, and green tea with sugar.
Sweet with milk.
Thanks so much for the lovely review and for letting me visit your blog!
Julianna Deering
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