Catherine Coles

A very readable cozy, with likeable central characters, a plausible plot, and a couple of elements of romance. Set in an English village after World War II, with rationing still in place. This was a quick read and the first in a series of 4. Perhaps the ending was a bit weak.

Lord and Lady Northmoor have an interesting assortment of guests for the weekend. All 4 of them received blackmail letters. Then one of them is murdered. So Tommy and Evelyn begin their investigation despite the local police asking them not to. Aunt Em is there to help of course. Fun characters and a delightful, cozy mystery.

Murder at the Manor was my first introduction to the author and the first of her series about Tommy and Evelyn Christie. It is a historical novel with very likable characters (Tommy and Evelyn) and also Aunt Em.

Smoothly written with intrigue and plot twists and plenty of suspects.

February 1948. Mrs Martha Miller while walking her dog discovers the body of young man Steven Strickland. Entreated by his mother she investigates with the help of vicar Luke Walker, much against the instruction of friend DI Ben Robertson. But why would anyone want to kill the teenager and how many people are telling lies.
An enjoyable and well-written cozy mystery with its likeable main characters which are supported by varied characters. Another good addition to this entertaining series.