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Malvern Farm Mystery #1
Murder on the Farm
Lambing season always brings the unexpected… But no one expected murder Jude Gray never thought she’d find herself widowed and running a working farm full-time, but here she is, living in the small Malvern village her husband Adam spent most of his life in. After a particularly gruelling lambing season, she is looking forward to some time off, but there’s no rest for the wicked, especially when she finds the body of one of Adam’s oldest friends on her farm. Jude refuses to believe the official line, that Sarah’s death was a suicide, and starts an investigation of her own. But as the body count rises, danger creeps ever closer to Malvern Farm. A killer is on the prowl. And all that stands in their way is one woman – and her dog.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2023
591 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
Kate Wells
44 books35 followersLibrary of Congress Authorities: Wells, Kate, 1959-
Senior technical instructor of dyeing and printing, Royal Coll. of Art, London
Senior technical instructor of dyeing and printing, Royal Coll. of Art, London
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
September 5, 2023
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Darkish cozy mystery; decent start to a series
Jude Gray didn’t dream of owning and working on a farm full-time. However, after the death of her husband, Adam, Jude decided to become a farmer and continue living in the same place. She manages to keep the place afloat with help from Frank, Noah, etc.
With the lambing season in full swing, Jude is too busy to deal with anything else. However, when a dear friend is found dead (presumed suicide) on her land, Jude knows she cannot let it go. She has an idea about the cause but knows the person would never kill themselves. Soon, Jude’s half-sister Lucy and her 2yo son Sebbie arrive for a visit. Jude takes Lucy’s help in digging into the matter.
As more bodies pile up, it’s up to Jude to get to the bottom of the truth (with DS Binnie’s assistance, of course).
The story comes in Jude’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The book begins with Jude attending Ben’s wedding with Tilda and meeting her other friends. Adam, Ben, Charles, and Sarah have been best friends since their school days. Jude joins the gang when she meets the town and falls in love with Adam. The bond between the friends plays a crucial role in the story.
Jude also has a half-sister, Lucy, who is five years younger than her. Despite their father being a prick (it’s not a spoiler as such), the sisters get on well since they were children. Initially, their relationship appears strained despite Jude feeling good about Lucy. However, we see how warm their bonding is. It’s an issue with the writing, which makes things sound awkward (and dry) when they are not.
In fact, the writing in the first quarter is choppy and clunky. It doesn’t inspire much confidence in the plot or the characters. Fortunately, it gets better as the book progresses. However, I still don’t know Jude’s age. How old is she? I thought she was close to 50 and then realized she sounded to be around 35-45. The same goes for other characters. Not knowing the age range makes it hard to visualize them.
Little Sebbie is adorable! He loves Aunt Chewdy and baby Canpake, the little lamb Jude adopts. He is a darling kid, and I enjoyed reading his broken sentences and cute words.
DS Binita Khatri is a great addition and not just an attempt at diversity. There’s just enough information to show her ethnicity with a major focus on the mystery. Since she’s likely to be a recurring character in the series, this method of introduction works.
The mystery is quite decent and intriguing. The case is close to Jude, so it makes sense that she would make a few assumptions and mistakes in solving it. Also, it’s her first case as an amateur sleuth, so errors are expected.
However, I don’t like that she is careless with evidence, especially knowing their importance. Given that she lives on a farm and runs it, one would expect her to be a little more organized or at least focused on important tasks. This carelessness is used as a plot device in the book. I hope it doesn’t become a recurring feature in the coming books.
The setting gets brownie points in this one. The tough side of farm life is detailed well with the various jobs that need to be completed to run a farm with livestock. I like how these scenes are presented and woven into the plot. Malvern Village is also easy to imagine. It’s on the darker side, which perfectly suits the plot.
There are enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Though I guessed the killer (not because of the clues, but it was more of an instinct), I wasn’t sure why and wondered if I was wrong. The ending is well done as it ties up the case and takes the main story forward by a few months.
To summarize, Murder on the Farm is a darkish cozy mystery set on a farm. It has some interesting characters and maintains a decent pace. While the writing isn’t great, it does get better after the initial part. Looking forward to reading book two.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderontheFarm
One Liner: Darkish cozy mystery; decent start to a series
Jude Gray didn’t dream of owning and working on a farm full-time. However, after the death of her husband, Adam, Jude decided to become a farmer and continue living in the same place. She manages to keep the place afloat with help from Frank, Noah, etc.
With the lambing season in full swing, Jude is too busy to deal with anything else. However, when a dear friend is found dead (presumed suicide) on her land, Jude knows she cannot let it go. She has an idea about the cause but knows the person would never kill themselves. Soon, Jude’s half-sister Lucy and her 2yo son Sebbie arrive for a visit. Jude takes Lucy’s help in digging into the matter.
As more bodies pile up, it’s up to Jude to get to the bottom of the truth (with DS Binnie’s assistance, of course).
The story comes in Jude’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The book begins with Jude attending Ben’s wedding with Tilda and meeting her other friends. Adam, Ben, Charles, and Sarah have been best friends since their school days. Jude joins the gang when she meets the town and falls in love with Adam. The bond between the friends plays a crucial role in the story.
Jude also has a half-sister, Lucy, who is five years younger than her. Despite their father being a prick (it’s not a spoiler as such), the sisters get on well since they were children. Initially, their relationship appears strained despite Jude feeling good about Lucy. However, we see how warm their bonding is. It’s an issue with the writing, which makes things sound awkward (and dry) when they are not.
In fact, the writing in the first quarter is choppy and clunky. It doesn’t inspire much confidence in the plot or the characters. Fortunately, it gets better as the book progresses. However, I still don’t know Jude’s age. How old is she? I thought she was close to 50 and then realized she sounded to be around 35-45. The same goes for other characters. Not knowing the age range makes it hard to visualize them.
Little Sebbie is adorable! He loves Aunt Chewdy and baby Canpake, the little lamb Jude adopts. He is a darling kid, and I enjoyed reading his broken sentences and cute words.
DS Binita Khatri is a great addition and not just an attempt at diversity. There’s just enough information to show her ethnicity with a major focus on the mystery. Since she’s likely to be a recurring character in the series, this method of introduction works.
The mystery is quite decent and intriguing. The case is close to Jude, so it makes sense that she would make a few assumptions and mistakes in solving it. Also, it’s her first case as an amateur sleuth, so errors are expected.
However, I don’t like that she is careless with evidence, especially knowing their importance. Given that she lives on a farm and runs it, one would expect her to be a little more organized or at least focused on important tasks. This carelessness is used as a plot device in the book. I hope it doesn’t become a recurring feature in the coming books.
The setting gets brownie points in this one. The tough side of farm life is detailed well with the various jobs that need to be completed to run a farm with livestock. I like how these scenes are presented and woven into the plot. Malvern Village is also easy to imagine. It’s on the darker side, which perfectly suits the plot.
There are enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Though I guessed the killer (not because of the clues, but it was more of an instinct), I wasn’t sure why and wondered if I was wrong. The ending is well done as it ties up the case and takes the main story forward by a few months.
To summarize, Murder on the Farm is a darkish cozy mystery set on a farm. It has some interesting characters and maintains a decent pace. While the writing isn’t great, it does get better after the initial part. Looking forward to reading book two.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderontheFarm
September 8, 2023
What a delightful introduction to a new mystery series! With a picturesque setting and personable characters, this novel was a very enjoyable read.
Our protagonist, Jude Gray, is a young, childless widow who now runs her large sheep farm with the help of Noah, her farm manager, and her loyal dog, Pip – all the while missing her late husband dreadfully. When she met her husband Adam, he introduced her to his life-long friends and they accepted her into their warm fold. Now, one of Adam’s friends is getting married, so she sheds her farming clothes and goes to the wedding where she sits with Sarah, now one of her best friends. The morning after the wedding, Jude is shocked to discover Sarah’s dead body in one of her sheep fields… It looks like suicide and that is what the police believe happened. Jude however, believes that Sarah was murdered and she vows to discover exactly what happened.
Jude’s investigation leads her into danger, but she won’t desist until the truth is revealed and justice is served.
This novel portrayed a working sheep farm, in all its messy, arduous glory. Jude was a strong character that I am eager to follow in subsequent novels. In this book her sister and young nephew visited the farm adding some levity to the serious tone. Jude was loyal, empathetic and caring as was shown by her regard for Sarah’s Granny Margot, and by her rescue of a lamb she named ‘Pancake’.
Another favorite character was West Mercia policewoman DS Binita Khatri (Binnie), who risked her career to help Jude. I enjoyed the growing camaraderie between the two women and I hope Binnie returns in future novels as well.
The use of codes and word games within the plot was a winning factor in my opinion, as I am a huge fan of both.
The writing was compelling and made for an easy, enjoyable reading experience. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in this engaging mystery series.
Our protagonist, Jude Gray, is a young, childless widow who now runs her large sheep farm with the help of Noah, her farm manager, and her loyal dog, Pip – all the while missing her late husband dreadfully. When she met her husband Adam, he introduced her to his life-long friends and they accepted her into their warm fold. Now, one of Adam’s friends is getting married, so she sheds her farming clothes and goes to the wedding where she sits with Sarah, now one of her best friends. The morning after the wedding, Jude is shocked to discover Sarah’s dead body in one of her sheep fields… It looks like suicide and that is what the police believe happened. Jude however, believes that Sarah was murdered and she vows to discover exactly what happened.
Jude’s investigation leads her into danger, but she won’t desist until the truth is revealed and justice is served.
This novel portrayed a working sheep farm, in all its messy, arduous glory. Jude was a strong character that I am eager to follow in subsequent novels. In this book her sister and young nephew visited the farm adding some levity to the serious tone. Jude was loyal, empathetic and caring as was shown by her regard for Sarah’s Granny Margot, and by her rescue of a lamb she named ‘Pancake’.
Another favorite character was West Mercia policewoman DS Binita Khatri (Binnie), who risked her career to help Jude. I enjoyed the growing camaraderie between the two women and I hope Binnie returns in future novels as well.
The use of codes and word games within the plot was a winning factor in my opinion, as I am a huge fan of both.
The writing was compelling and made for an easy, enjoyable reading experience. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in this engaging mystery series.
September 10, 2023
What a fantastic start to a new cozy murder mystery series. Set on a working sheep farm a young widowed Jude is thrown head first into some murder mysteries. They all start when ger best friend is found dead and jude decides to investigate. Helped alonv the way by several strong women characters including a di and judes sister.
I love the style of writing each character arc and backstory was dripped in. The research done into the workings of a sheep farm made sure it was penned on reality. I loved the way jude interacts with everyone and stays true to her arc especially her dead hubby. I loved the way puzzles were made part of the mystery and how it all lead to a bigger reveal which was explained in such a way it did seem good. The nand of women solving the case rings throughtout ghjs nivel. Its a faurly quick read which hooks you in
I did care about tge main characters even noah.
Thank you netgallery and publisher for a fab 5 star arc look forward to book 2
I love the style of writing each character arc and backstory was dripped in. The research done into the workings of a sheep farm made sure it was penned on reality. I loved the way jude interacts with everyone and stays true to her arc especially her dead hubby. I loved the way puzzles were made part of the mystery and how it all lead to a bigger reveal which was explained in such a way it did seem good. The nand of women solving the case rings throughtout ghjs nivel. Its a faurly quick read which hooks you in
I did care about tge main characters even noah.
Thank you netgallery and publisher for a fab 5 star arc look forward to book 2
August 19, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this cozy mystery. I enjoyed it very much.
Jude Grey is living and working on her sheep farm in Malvern Hills. It's lambing season and very busy day and night, until 800 baby sheep are born. I really enjoyed learning about the lambing season. At the wedding of her dead husband's best friend Ben, her friend Sarah reveals some secrets about her life, how she's gotten deeply into debt with online gambling. Jude is shocked, and their other good friend Charlie takes a very drunk Sarah home in a taxi. The next morning, Jude finds her hanging by her silk scarf from a tree at the edge of her farm, apparently a suicide.
The police don't want to investigate since it was apparently a suicide, so Jude decides to look into herself. Her half sister comes to visit with her two year old son, and Jude enjoys having them around. Slowly but surely she learns things about Sarah, and hopes to get the police interested in investigating again.
I will definitely read more books by this author, as I enjoyed this one so much. Well done!
Jude Grey is living and working on her sheep farm in Malvern Hills. It's lambing season and very busy day and night, until 800 baby sheep are born. I really enjoyed learning about the lambing season. At the wedding of her dead husband's best friend Ben, her friend Sarah reveals some secrets about her life, how she's gotten deeply into debt with online gambling. Jude is shocked, and their other good friend Charlie takes a very drunk Sarah home in a taxi. The next morning, Jude finds her hanging by her silk scarf from a tree at the edge of her farm, apparently a suicide.
The police don't want to investigate since it was apparently a suicide, so Jude decides to look into herself. Her half sister comes to visit with her two year old son, and Jude enjoys having them around. Slowly but surely she learns things about Sarah, and hopes to get the police interested in investigating again.
I will definitely read more books by this author, as I enjoyed this one so much. Well done!
January 7, 2024
This was a great start to a new mystery series. Set in the Malvern Hills district in England at a working sheep farm so you get a brief look at the daily activities that make up Jude Gray's (the main character) life. The plot moved fairly quickly, and I was surprised by the outcome when the book took another turn. There are a few secondary characters that I hope will become a permanent part of the serial and I am very much looking forward to further books in this Malvern Farm Mystery series. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Rebecca Norfolk who did a wonderful job.
March 1, 2025
The first half of this dragged. But if picked up again by the end, a good mystery!
September 10, 2023
What a fantastic start to a new cozy murder mystery series. Set on a working sheep farm a young widowed Jude is thrown head first into some murder mysteries. They all start when ger best friend is found dead and jude decides to investigate. Helped alonv the way by several strong women characters including a di and judes sister.
I love the style of writing each character arc and backstory was dripped in. The research done into the workings of a sheep farm made sure it was penned on reality. I loved the way jude interacts with everyone and stays true to her arc especially her dead hubby. I loved the way puzzles were made part of the mystery and how it all lead to a bigger reveal which was explained in such a way it did seem good. The nand of women solving the case rings throughtout ghjs nivel. Its a faurly quick read which hooks you in
I did care about tge main characters even noah.
Thank you netgallery and publisher for a fab 5 star arc look forward to book 2
I love the style of writing each character arc and backstory was dripped in. The research done into the workings of a sheep farm made sure it was penned on reality. I loved the way jude interacts with everyone and stays true to her arc especially her dead hubby. I loved the way puzzles were made part of the mystery and how it all lead to a bigger reveal which was explained in such a way it did seem good. The nand of women solving the case rings throughtout ghjs nivel. Its a faurly quick read which hooks you in
I did care about tge main characters even noah.
Thank you netgallery and publisher for a fab 5 star arc look forward to book 2
September 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this new mystery series from Kate Wells which is set in the picturesque Malvern Hills. It has all the ingredients of a cozy mystery: a range of characters with dark secrets, a high body count, lots of red herrings and a denouement which ties up all the loose ends. Jude Gray is busy in the lambing shed when the story begins but she is running late for her dear friend Ben's wedding. We discover quite quickly that she was recently widowed and is running the farm with support of the taciturn shepherd Noah. Jude's good friend Sarah reveals at the wedding that she is struggling with debt and doesn't know what to do. As the evening continues, Sarah becomes more drunk and eventually leaves with another old friend Charlie. The following morning Jude is out with her dog and discovers Sarah's body but Jude cannot believe that she took her own life and so begins her own investigation.
This is a well written traditional mystery in the style of a good Agatha Christie story. Wells provides a selection of possible suspects and there are also word puzzles and physical clues. I found myself solving the murder alongside Jude and although I worked out the who I wasn't clear on the why until the end. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
This is a well written traditional mystery in the style of a good Agatha Christie story. Wells provides a selection of possible suspects and there are also word puzzles and physical clues. I found myself solving the murder alongside Jude and although I worked out the who I wasn't clear on the why until the end. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
September 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this new mystery series from Kate Wells which is set in the picturesque Malvern Hills. It has all the ingredients of a cozy mystery: a range of characters with dark secrets, a high body count, lots of red herrings and a denouement which ties up all the loose ends. Jude Gray is busy in the lambing shed when the story begins but she is running late for her dear friend Ben's wedding. We discover quite quickly that she was recently widowed and is running the farm with support of the taciturn shepherd Noah. Jude's good friend Sarah reveals at the wedding that she is struggling with debt and doesn't know what to do. As the evening continues, Sarah becomes more drunk and eventually leaves with another old friend Charlie. The following morning Jude is out with her dog and discovers Sarah's body but Jude cannot believe that she took her own life and so begins her own investigation.
This is a well written traditional mystery in the style of a good Agatha Christie story. Wells provides a selection of possible suspects and there are also word puzzles and physical clues. I found myself solving the murder alongside Jude and although I worked out the who I wasn't clear on the why until the end. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
This is a well written traditional mystery in the style of a good Agatha Christie story. Wells provides a selection of possible suspects and there are also word puzzles and physical clues. I found myself solving the murder alongside Jude and although I worked out the who I wasn't clear on the why until the end. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
July 26, 2023
Set in Malvern End, Jude Gray lives and works on a farm called Malvern Farm where she rears sheep. She’s friends with Sarah a local who’s dating a guy named Nate Sanchez whom Sarah’s Granny Margot, hasn’t quite warmed up to.
Jude is also friends with her late husband Adam’s friends— Charlie and Ben who’s is getting married to his new bride Tilda and they’re all attending.
At the wedding, Sarah confides in Jude about losing about seventy thousand pounds on internet gambling 🎰, and then taking a loan when she ran out of money.
Jude is shocked to hear but agrees to help Sarah sort herself out. The next day, however, Jude stumbles on her friends Sarah’s body near Jude’s farmyard.
Detective Sergeant Binita Khatri is called in to investigate. Jude does not believe her friend would take her own life and decides to do some digging of her own. Overall an interesting mystery with beautiful descriptions of the countryside. Would recommend.
Thank you to Kate Wells, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the arc of this book.
Jude is also friends with her late husband Adam’s friends— Charlie and Ben who’s is getting married to his new bride Tilda and they’re all attending.
At the wedding, Sarah confides in Jude about losing about seventy thousand pounds on internet gambling 🎰, and then taking a loan when she ran out of money.
Jude is shocked to hear but agrees to help Sarah sort herself out. The next day, however, Jude stumbles on her friends Sarah’s body near Jude’s farmyard.
Detective Sergeant Binita Khatri is called in to investigate. Jude does not believe her friend would take her own life and decides to do some digging of her own. Overall an interesting mystery with beautiful descriptions of the countryside. Would recommend.
Thank you to Kate Wells, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the arc of this book.
February 4, 2024
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a Mystery by Kate let alone in this series so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i really enjoyed this one. it reminded me alot of Agatha Christie's Mrs Marple in more ways then one.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. It was hard to pick just one as my favorite since i seemed to like all the characters.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was in the book while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a fun Book 1 in this Mystery Series. Can't wait to read more in this series and by Kate in the future!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a Mystery by Kate let alone in this series so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i really enjoyed this one. it reminded me alot of Agatha Christie's Mrs Marple in more ways then one.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. It was hard to pick just one as my favorite since i seemed to like all the characters.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was in the book while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a fun Book 1 in this Mystery Series. Can't wait to read more in this series and by Kate in the future!!
November 29, 2025
I loved this. It’s a unique setting (a sheep farm in the English countryside), interesting characters (MC is a young widow sheep farmer), and I did not correctly guess whodunnit, which is basically my trifecta of perfection. And there are 5 or 6 more books in the series!
September 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this and am glad to have a new author to read.
May 5, 2025
Great plot twist
June 29, 2025
Fabulous absolutely fabulous. Un put downable
October 8, 2025
Bonus read end of September on hoopla
August 31, 2023
Kate Wells has written a shocking murder masterpiece with Murder on the Farm.
The story’s about Adam, Jude, Charlie, Sarah and Ben that meet at university with the world at their feet.
Adam and Jude married and moved to his hometown and raised sheep on Malvern Farm that his family owned, while the other three lived nearby.
Life as adults for these friends were ripped apart one by one due to life or by their own bad decisions.
So many bad decisions by some.
I never saw the ending coming, but it was extremely satisfying.
This should be a Lifetime movie!
#MuderontheFarm
#NetGalley
#KateWells
The story’s about Adam, Jude, Charlie, Sarah and Ben that meet at university with the world at their feet.
Adam and Jude married and moved to his hometown and raised sheep on Malvern Farm that his family owned, while the other three lived nearby.
Life as adults for these friends were ripped apart one by one due to life or by their own bad decisions.
So many bad decisions by some.
I never saw the ending coming, but it was extremely satisfying.
This should be a Lifetime movie!
#MuderontheFarm
#NetGalley
#KateWells
September 4, 2023
Jude, a widowed farmer, thinks it’s a normal day in lambing season when she walks around her farm completing daily chores. However, on this frightful morning after her friend Ben’s wedding, she sees her best friend Sarah, dead, hanging from an Oak tree wearing the same outfit she’d worn to the wedding.
Jude is convinced that Sarah would never harm herself and when the death is ruled a suicide, she takes the investigation into her own hands. Along with her farmhand Noah and her half-sister Lucy, Jude uncovers secrets so buried, she isn’t sure she knows her best friend as well as she thought she did.
As she goes down different paths in her investigation, she befriends a Detective who is on her side. Together, the group sets out to find out what happened once and for all. Was Sarah over her head and chose to end her life? Or was this a set-up because Sarah’s trouble finally caught up with her?
Honestly I loved this book! I loved the mystery and clues and felt like this story was more realistic than some other cozies I’ve seen. The main character cast was very loveable (including Jude and her friends, her sister and 2-year-old nephew, and a baby lamb named Pancake). I also love learning something when I read and I truly learned so much about farming and sheep/lambs throughout the novel.
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. I am excited for the series to continue!
Jude is convinced that Sarah would never harm herself and when the death is ruled a suicide, she takes the investigation into her own hands. Along with her farmhand Noah and her half-sister Lucy, Jude uncovers secrets so buried, she isn’t sure she knows her best friend as well as she thought she did.
As she goes down different paths in her investigation, she befriends a Detective who is on her side. Together, the group sets out to find out what happened once and for all. Was Sarah over her head and chose to end her life? Or was this a set-up because Sarah’s trouble finally caught up with her?
Honestly I loved this book! I loved the mystery and clues and felt like this story was more realistic than some other cozies I’ve seen. The main character cast was very loveable (including Jude and her friends, her sister and 2-year-old nephew, and a baby lamb named Pancake). I also love learning something when I read and I truly learned so much about farming and sheep/lambs throughout the novel.
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. I am excited for the series to continue!
July 27, 2023
Young widow Jude Gray lives in the small Malvern village where her husband Adam grew up. Since his death she's been running the farm alone - not the future she has imagined for herself.
It's lambing season but Jude manages to escape to attend the wedding of one of Adams oldest friends, only to then discover the body of another one of their friends...
The police believes Sarah killed herself but Jude doesn't. She decides to start her own search for the truth but her path is littered with more and more bodies. Danger might well catch up with Malvern Farm if Jude doesn't solve the mystery fast.
I started reading Murder on the Farm and couldn't put it down! The plot is cleverly woven around attaching characters but - be warned! - you'll end up suspecting absolutely everyone. The pace is perfect, always keeping the reader engaged, the clues and bodies mounting steadily (!!!) while allowing some lovely moments learning to know more about Jude. Kate Wells describes the Malverns beautifully and the interactions between Jude and her small nephew offer some welcome relief from the otherwise dramatic events happening in her life....! I loved it.
It's lambing season but Jude manages to escape to attend the wedding of one of Adams oldest friends, only to then discover the body of another one of their friends...
The police believes Sarah killed herself but Jude doesn't. She decides to start her own search for the truth but her path is littered with more and more bodies. Danger might well catch up with Malvern Farm if Jude doesn't solve the mystery fast.
I started reading Murder on the Farm and couldn't put it down! The plot is cleverly woven around attaching characters but - be warned! - you'll end up suspecting absolutely everyone. The pace is perfect, always keeping the reader engaged, the clues and bodies mounting steadily (!!!) while allowing some lovely moments learning to know more about Jude. Kate Wells describes the Malverns beautifully and the interactions between Jude and her small nephew offer some welcome relief from the otherwise dramatic events happening in her life....! I loved it.
September 11, 2023
It was a very slow start to this book I actually read a few chapters and put it down again for a few days because it was such a slow start I didn't have that want to keep reading that I usually have with crime/thriller books.
It was a well-written book but I felt it lay a little flat, I kept reading but I had no want or need to know what was going to happen. Even in the bits where Jude was in jeopardy, I didn't feel worried if she would be fine, I had no sense of concern for her.
I did enjoy the puzzles throughout the story and the subplot of the stolen goods, I liked following that throughout the book. And I did like that the ending tied everything up nicely, we got everything explained and any loose threads were woven back in it felt like a good ending to what had happened.
It was a well-written book but I felt it lay a little flat, I kept reading but I had no want or need to know what was going to happen. Even in the bits where Jude was in jeopardy, I didn't feel worried if she would be fine, I had no sense of concern for her.
I did enjoy the puzzles throughout the story and the subplot of the stolen goods, I liked following that throughout the book. And I did like that the ending tied everything up nicely, we got everything explained and any loose threads were woven back in it felt like a good ending to what had happened.
June 12, 2024
Does cozy = draggy? Because, I found this dragged. A lot. Like, get to the meat of the matter already! Perhaps I'm not cut out for the cozy mystery genre...
August 21, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read "Murder On The Farm" in exchange for my honest opinion.
I was very excited to to see this new series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next books in the series. The story takes place in Malvern End on Malvern Farm where Jude Gray has inherited a lamb farm from her husband after his passing from cancer. Jude has a close circle of friends that she also inherited from Adam. Charlie, Ben, Sarah and Adam all went to primary school together. The story starts at Ben's wedding to Tilda whom no one seems to like because she's rude, entitled, annoying and quite nasty to all of Ben's friends. No one really understands why he married her. Even at the wedding reception she had them all sitting at the back.
Sarah is dating a rather unpleasant man named Nate who is self-absorbed and treats her badly to all appearances. When Sarah is found dead on Jude's land, the police are quick to write it off as suicide. However DS Binita (Binnie) Khatri listens to Jude and believes her when she says that this is out of character for her friend. Binnie risks her career on the police force to help Jude out. She is such a wonderful, strong character!
We also meet Jude's half-sister Lucy and her 2 year-old son Sebbie who have come to visit and will possibly be staying into the next book as well.
Soon another body is found in a pit again on Jude's land. Sarah left behind word puzzle clues and Jude is certain that solving those clues will give them the answers to what is really going on in the little village. Binnie's DI boss is getting suspicious of Jude when yet another body is found on the farm. Jude in trying to help manages to lose a diary with potential clues in it and a laptop.
There are great references to Agatha Christie's book "And Then There Were None." Some of the best parts of the book are the ones where Pancake the baby lamb is mentioned. It's very interesting to read details about lambing season on a farm. Hopefully there will be another book in the series soon.
I was very excited to to see this new series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next books in the series. The story takes place in Malvern End on Malvern Farm where Jude Gray has inherited a lamb farm from her husband after his passing from cancer. Jude has a close circle of friends that she also inherited from Adam. Charlie, Ben, Sarah and Adam all went to primary school together. The story starts at Ben's wedding to Tilda whom no one seems to like because she's rude, entitled, annoying and quite nasty to all of Ben's friends. No one really understands why he married her. Even at the wedding reception she had them all sitting at the back.
Sarah is dating a rather unpleasant man named Nate who is self-absorbed and treats her badly to all appearances. When Sarah is found dead on Jude's land, the police are quick to write it off as suicide. However DS Binita (Binnie) Khatri listens to Jude and believes her when she says that this is out of character for her friend. Binnie risks her career on the police force to help Jude out. She is such a wonderful, strong character!
We also meet Jude's half-sister Lucy and her 2 year-old son Sebbie who have come to visit and will possibly be staying into the next book as well.
Soon another body is found in a pit again on Jude's land. Sarah left behind word puzzle clues and Jude is certain that solving those clues will give them the answers to what is really going on in the little village. Binnie's DI boss is getting suspicious of Jude when yet another body is found on the farm. Jude in trying to help manages to lose a diary with potential clues in it and a laptop.
There are great references to Agatha Christie's book "And Then There Were None." Some of the best parts of the book are the ones where Pancake the baby lamb is mentioned. It's very interesting to read details about lambing season on a farm. Hopefully there will be another book in the series soon.
August 25, 2023
Saw this book advertised by the author on Twitter so i read my second adult book this year! Usually they're all middle grade!
There were four friends: Adam, Charlie, Ben and Sarah. They grew up together from primary school, as thick as thieves! Ben goes to Uni meets Jude - who when introduced to Adam falls in love. The other three approve and marriage and taking over Adam's family farm take place. Then Adam gets cancer and dies. Jude carries on with the shepherd, Noah, as help on the farm.
At Ben's surprise wedding to Tilda (everyone thought he'd marry Sarah) Jude finds out that Sarah is massively in debt to a loan shark. Next morning she finds Sarah's body - still in her wedding outfit and shoes in one of the sheep fields. The police insist that it's suicide - there's nothing to suggest anyone else was there. But really Sarah was complaining of sore feet at the wedding why would she walk that far in heels to hang herself.
Jude's little sister, Lucy turns up with her young son Seb, but apart from telling Jude not to let their father know she is there, she keeps quiet and helps Jude.
Jude keeps poking about with help from DS Binnie Khatri who goes against her DI, she doesn't believe it's suicide either. Plus she has another reason to try to help, and to see another side. Charlie and Ben keep telling her stop and it's a shut case. But what is Ben up to?
But there's worse to come. Is Jude in trouble?
Jude is a fab character. She is strong and able, her family ties to her sister Lucy are strong despite having different mothers. When Lucy said she was coming Jude tried to put her off but when Lucy and Seb arrive they give Jude something else to think about and look after! Noah is a great character who is such a help both on the farm and as a protector for Jude and her family. He makes a great babysitter too!
The twists throughout are really good. I hadn't got a clue who the murderer was.
There were four friends: Adam, Charlie, Ben and Sarah. They grew up together from primary school, as thick as thieves! Ben goes to Uni meets Jude - who when introduced to Adam falls in love. The other three approve and marriage and taking over Adam's family farm take place. Then Adam gets cancer and dies. Jude carries on with the shepherd, Noah, as help on the farm.
At Ben's surprise wedding to Tilda (everyone thought he'd marry Sarah) Jude finds out that Sarah is massively in debt to a loan shark. Next morning she finds Sarah's body - still in her wedding outfit and shoes in one of the sheep fields. The police insist that it's suicide - there's nothing to suggest anyone else was there. But really Sarah was complaining of sore feet at the wedding why would she walk that far in heels to hang herself.
Jude's little sister, Lucy turns up with her young son Seb, but apart from telling Jude not to let their father know she is there, she keeps quiet and helps Jude.
Jude keeps poking about with help from DS Binnie Khatri who goes against her DI, she doesn't believe it's suicide either. Plus she has another reason to try to help, and to see another side. Charlie and Ben keep telling her stop and it's a shut case. But what is Ben up to?
But there's worse to come. Is Jude in trouble?
Jude is a fab character. She is strong and able, her family ties to her sister Lucy are strong despite having different mothers. When Lucy said she was coming Jude tried to put her off but when Lucy and Seb arrive they give Jude something else to think about and look after! Noah is a great character who is such a help both on the farm and as a protector for Jude and her family. He makes a great babysitter too!
The twists throughout are really good. I hadn't got a clue who the murderer was.
September 4, 2023
Ben, Charlie, Adam and Sarah were friends from childhood. Jude met Ben at university and was welcomed into the group, later marrying sheep farmer Adam. Now Adam has been dead these past two years and Jude, together with invaluable help from shepherd Noah and his Dad Frank, has taken on the running of Malvern Farm. We join them in the middle of an early lambing on Ben’s big day as he marries outsider Tilda. At the church Sarah is with her rather unlikable boyfriend Nate, sporting a bruise on her face and confesses to Jude that her online gambling has racked up an enormous amount of debt from which she can see no way out. The next morning Jude discovers Sarah’s body in one of her fields and it looks like she hanged herself. Knowing Sarah as well as she did, Jude thinks there is more to this than a case of unhappy suicide to escape her debts and Granny Margot agrees with her. Finding Sarah’s diary before a run-in with a very unsavoury character, and joined by her half-sister Lucy, Jude starts to delve into Sarah’s life. Not even the appearance of a farewell letter can make Jude doubt her convictions. The official police line is that Sarah took her own life but DS Binnie Khatri also has reservations for good reasons of her own, and produces Sarah’s computer. They soon discover the dead woman had big secrets which could have put her life in danger. How well did Jude actually know her friend and if she’s right and there’s a killer in the village of Malvern End, could someone else be next to die?
There are some great characters introduced in this first book in a new series, and I immediately found myself having a real soft spot for Granny Margot, Binnie, Noah and, of course, Pancake! I liked Jude who had no aspirations to become an amateur sleuth with enough already on her plate but whose strong sense of loyalty to her friends compelled her to seek justice for Sarah. I am looking forward to more in this very likeable setting. 4.5*
There are some great characters introduced in this first book in a new series, and I immediately found myself having a real soft spot for Granny Margot, Binnie, Noah and, of course, Pancake! I liked Jude who had no aspirations to become an amateur sleuth with enough already on her plate but whose strong sense of loyalty to her friends compelled her to seek justice for Sarah. I am looking forward to more in this very likeable setting. 4.5*
September 1, 2023
Although life on the sheep farm his hard work and Jude misses her husband she wouldn’t trade it for $1 million that doesn’t mean she’s not happy about getting the night off to go to one of their friends weddings Ben is marring Tulsa and the whole gang will be there. She is happy to see Sarah but before the night is over she will be worried about her her antisocial boyfriend leaves a lot to be desired in the bruise she sees on Sarah is disconcerting but the secret Sarah shares with her is even more disquieting Jude doesn’t know what to do about it. The next day however when she finds Sarah hanging from the tree in the police call it suicide despite Sarah’s revelations the night before Jude does not believe it for a second. She decides to start her own investigation she has no these people for years but the things she finds out about them are surprising and even turns deadly so when her sister Lucy and nephew Zeb come to stay at the farm Jude has a lot more at stake to be totally honest I thought this was a cozy mystery and had never read a book by Kate Wells before but when I say this is a legitimate authentic mystery/thriller that deserves five whole stars I am also being honest. This was such a great book I loved everything about it from the mystery the talk about the sheep little pancake I love the way little Zeb said clock lit and the mark of a good mystery if I never figured out the culprit… Nor did he bro! I love this book and highly recommend it if you love a good mystery put in an original setting like a sheep farm you’re definitely love Murder On The Farm by Kate Wells it’s intriguing a and fun a combination you don’t always get with a good mystery. Love this book so much!!! I want to think Boldwood Books and net Galley for my free ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
September 3, 2023
Murder on The Farm by Kate Wells
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Lambing season always brings the unexpected… But no one expected murder Jude Gray never thought she’d find herself widowed and running a working farm full-time, but here she is, living in the small Malvern village her husband Adam spent most of his life in. After a particularly gruelling lambing season, she is looking forward to some time off, but there’s no rest for the wicked, especially when she finds the body of one of Adam’s oldest friends on her farm. Jude refuses to believe the official line, that Sarah’s death was a suicide, and starts an investigation of her own. But as the body count rises, danger creeps ever closer to Malvern Farm. A killer is on the prowl. And all that stands in their way is one woman – and her dog.
My Opinion
Murder on the Farm is the first book in a new series by Kate Wells. First of all I would like to say that as a character I like Jude Gray - especially at the beginning where she doesn't let being dressed up prevent her from helping out in the lambing shed. For me, this was a great introduction to the series and it will be nice to catch up with some of these characters in the future.
Jude is not convinced with the police investigation, so decides to take the investigation into her own hands. This was a nice leisurely read, ideal for a cosy weekend of reading. I found that this had been written in such a way that whilst it is a new series, I felt like I was in a familiar setting as I felt like I was at home with these characters.
Rating: 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Lambing season always brings the unexpected… But no one expected murder Jude Gray never thought she’d find herself widowed and running a working farm full-time, but here she is, living in the small Malvern village her husband Adam spent most of his life in. After a particularly gruelling lambing season, she is looking forward to some time off, but there’s no rest for the wicked, especially when she finds the body of one of Adam’s oldest friends on her farm. Jude refuses to believe the official line, that Sarah’s death was a suicide, and starts an investigation of her own. But as the body count rises, danger creeps ever closer to Malvern Farm. A killer is on the prowl. And all that stands in their way is one woman – and her dog.
My Opinion
Murder on the Farm is the first book in a new series by Kate Wells. First of all I would like to say that as a character I like Jude Gray - especially at the beginning where she doesn't let being dressed up prevent her from helping out in the lambing shed. For me, this was a great introduction to the series and it will be nice to catch up with some of these characters in the future.
Jude is not convinced with the police investigation, so decides to take the investigation into her own hands. This was a nice leisurely read, ideal for a cosy weekend of reading. I found that this had been written in such a way that whilst it is a new series, I felt like I was in a familiar setting as I felt like I was at home with these characters.
Rating: 4/5
March 19, 2025
Being a fan of cozy mysteries and loving the countryside, I thought this book would be a good choice. It did not disappoint.
Sheep farmer Jude Gray takes time out of a busy lambing season to attend the wedding of her late husband’s best friend. At the reception Sarah, another of the friend group, reveals that she is in financial difficulties and owes money to a loan shark.
The next morning, while doing her rounds on the farm, Jude finds Sarah’s body at the edge of one of the fields. Despite there being no evidence contradicting a verdict of suicide, Jude cannot believe that her friend would take such a step.
Jude’s half-sister, Lucy, comes to stay at the farm while dealing with problems of her own. She brings her two-year old son, Sebbie, with her. Jude and Lucy investigate the circumstances surrounding Sarah’s death, assisted by DS Binita Khatri who has reasons of her own for pursuing the investigation.
The story contains all the elements of a good cozy mystery: a cute pet, nosy neighbour, picturesque village setting and, of course, numerous cups of tea. Red herrings abound and the inclusion of a cryptic word game drew me into the investigation. The added dimension of the setting being a working sheep farm was also of interest. A good balance was maintained in describing the running of the farm and the commitment required without going into too much detail.
The story feels little darker than other cozy mysteries I have read but the presence of Sebbie and the farm animals lightens the mood.
There are some lovely secondary characters and I look forward to spending more time in the Malvern Hills.
Sheep farmer Jude Gray takes time out of a busy lambing season to attend the wedding of her late husband’s best friend. At the reception Sarah, another of the friend group, reveals that she is in financial difficulties and owes money to a loan shark.
The next morning, while doing her rounds on the farm, Jude finds Sarah’s body at the edge of one of the fields. Despite there being no evidence contradicting a verdict of suicide, Jude cannot believe that her friend would take such a step.
Jude’s half-sister, Lucy, comes to stay at the farm while dealing with problems of her own. She brings her two-year old son, Sebbie, with her. Jude and Lucy investigate the circumstances surrounding Sarah’s death, assisted by DS Binita Khatri who has reasons of her own for pursuing the investigation.
The story contains all the elements of a good cozy mystery: a cute pet, nosy neighbour, picturesque village setting and, of course, numerous cups of tea. Red herrings abound and the inclusion of a cryptic word game drew me into the investigation. The added dimension of the setting being a working sheep farm was also of interest. A good balance was maintained in describing the running of the farm and the commitment required without going into too much detail.
The story feels little darker than other cozy mysteries I have read but the presence of Sebbie and the farm animals lightens the mood.
There are some lovely secondary characters and I look forward to spending more time in the Malvern Hills.
April 10, 2024
For a while now, my reading’s been moving towards the cosy mystery end of the market, and I’m delighted I chose this one. The story intrigued me from the start, while giving me some great characters and quite a few chuckles along the way.
Jude’s friend Sarah dies shortly after the wedding of their mutual friend Ben. It looks like Sarah’s taken her own life, but Jude knows her better than that. Sarah wasn’t the kind of person to take her own life. When the police pay scant attention to Jude’s viewpoint, she knows she has to investigate herself. But she also has a farm to run. When her sister and son Sebbie visit her, the distractions pile up. Luckily, other friends offer their support.
Jude soon turns up clues from a word game invented by Sarah. But apart from Binni, a detective who share’s Jude’s suspicions, the police remain unconvinced. Then a second body is found and identified.
From here, Jude’s world is turned upside down as her sleuthing uncovers secrets that show her friends are not the people she thought they were. The pace quickens as Jude strikes out to uncover the killer before anyone else dies.
The story is filled with sharply drawn and likable characters, a busy farm to run, and some heart-warming moments to go with a generous helping of humour. I have to say, the story kept me turning the pages as the climax came into view.
I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series and joining Jude and company in a new investigation.
If you enjoy realistic cosy mysteries, this is a great place to start.
Jude’s friend Sarah dies shortly after the wedding of their mutual friend Ben. It looks like Sarah’s taken her own life, but Jude knows her better than that. Sarah wasn’t the kind of person to take her own life. When the police pay scant attention to Jude’s viewpoint, she knows she has to investigate herself. But she also has a farm to run. When her sister and son Sebbie visit her, the distractions pile up. Luckily, other friends offer their support.
Jude soon turns up clues from a word game invented by Sarah. But apart from Binni, a detective who share’s Jude’s suspicions, the police remain unconvinced. Then a second body is found and identified.
From here, Jude’s world is turned upside down as her sleuthing uncovers secrets that show her friends are not the people she thought they were. The pace quickens as Jude strikes out to uncover the killer before anyone else dies.
The story is filled with sharply drawn and likable characters, a busy farm to run, and some heart-warming moments to go with a generous helping of humour. I have to say, the story kept me turning the pages as the climax came into view.
I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series and joining Jude and company in a new investigation.
If you enjoy realistic cosy mysteries, this is a great place to start.
October 7, 2025
great read.
Adam, Ben, Charlie and sarah had been friends since babies when Jude moved into the area she joined the group. she married Adam and they run a sheep farm, sadly Adam died. She now runs the farm with Noah her farm hands help. Grief and working means she hasn't seen her friends in a while but she is going to Bens wedding. There she sees all her friends she realises Sarah isn't ok she has lost weight, looks pale, and very jumpy. Nora doesn't like Bens wife to be or Sarah's fiancee.
The next day Jude is doing her farm duties when she comes across Sarah's dead body. its ruled sucided but Jude doesn't believe that so starts looking into things herself. only one police officer believes her and offers help.
during the investigation judes sister Lucy turns up with Seb a really cute kid now its daily chaos with her sister, a 2 year old and a newly born lamb called pancake. has the investigation continues more people die and secerts about her friends are discovered,
even though i did sorta wrk out the killer which normally bugs me if i do it too early the characters and how it was written i was throughly invested ad would happily readanother katie wells book.
Adam, Ben, Charlie and sarah had been friends since babies when Jude moved into the area she joined the group. she married Adam and they run a sheep farm, sadly Adam died. She now runs the farm with Noah her farm hands help. Grief and working means she hasn't seen her friends in a while but she is going to Bens wedding. There she sees all her friends she realises Sarah isn't ok she has lost weight, looks pale, and very jumpy. Nora doesn't like Bens wife to be or Sarah's fiancee.
The next day Jude is doing her farm duties when she comes across Sarah's dead body. its ruled sucided but Jude doesn't believe that so starts looking into things herself. only one police officer believes her and offers help.
during the investigation judes sister Lucy turns up with Seb a really cute kid now its daily chaos with her sister, a 2 year old and a newly born lamb called pancake. has the investigation continues more people die and secerts about her friends are discovered,
even though i did sorta wrk out the killer which normally bugs me if i do it too early the characters and how it was written i was throughly invested ad would happily readanother katie wells book.
January 31, 2024
3.75
This was tagged as a cozy mystery so I was a bit let down when I discovered it isn't. More of a darkish mystery with a bit of cozy elements -- like life on the farm. I did enjoy the descriptions of farm life and that they weren't glossed over. It's lambing season and there's a ton of work to do and the authors showcases both the highs and lows of the job.
The mystery was crafted well -- but it's sad too and I felt overwhelmed for Jude as she struggles with some harsh truths. Loved her loyalty to her friends and her determination to fight for justice when it seems no one else will. The addition of a female Detective Sergeant who becomes an ally and on the way towards becoming a friend, helped the mystery along. I did get frustrated with Jude when she with held critical evidence numerous times. You think she'd learn from her first mistake! That part of the mystery felt more like a plot device and, while it did move things along with dramatic flair, it stilled irked me. :-)
Of note: The story contains a fair amount of graphic curse words -- not a ton by today's standards, but way more than I want to read in a mystery. Since this isn't a cozy, I guess that's to be expected, but, as I said, I went in thinking otherwise. Anyway, because of that element, I don't think I will be continuing with this series.
This was tagged as a cozy mystery so I was a bit let down when I discovered it isn't. More of a darkish mystery with a bit of cozy elements -- like life on the farm. I did enjoy the descriptions of farm life and that they weren't glossed over. It's lambing season and there's a ton of work to do and the authors showcases both the highs and lows of the job.
The mystery was crafted well -- but it's sad too and I felt overwhelmed for Jude as she struggles with some harsh truths. Loved her loyalty to her friends and her determination to fight for justice when it seems no one else will. The addition of a female Detective Sergeant who becomes an ally and on the way towards becoming a friend, helped the mystery along. I did get frustrated with Jude when she with held critical evidence numerous times. You think she'd learn from her first mistake! That part of the mystery felt more like a plot device and, while it did move things along with dramatic flair, it stilled irked me. :-)
Of note: The story contains a fair amount of graphic curse words -- not a ton by today's standards, but way more than I want to read in a mystery. Since this isn't a cozy, I guess that's to be expected, but, as I said, I went in thinking otherwise. Anyway, because of that element, I don't think I will be continuing with this series.
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