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Melissa Craig #7
Deadly Legacy
The once sleepy Cotswold town of Stowbridge has been plagued by a sex strangler, a series of burglaries, and now the death of novelist Leonora Jewell. Melissa Craig is persuaded to complete Jewell's unfinished novel, and discovers clues in the script which suggest a motive for murder.
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 7, 1995
1182 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Betty Rowlands
47 books143 followersBetty Rowlands is an member of the Crime Writers' Association and appears on panels at writers' conferences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 4, 2019
There is a serial killer in the peaceful and idyllic village where Melissa lives. He kills the elderly and bedridden and paints a hideous smile on their faces with lipstick.
After not showing up for a tea gathering, Melissa goes to her neighbor’s cottage to check on her. But what she finds will haunt her for a long time. Her neighbor has become the fourth victim of this heartless criminal. But something is not right.
The fourth victim wasn’t bedridden. She was indeed active and lively. So why would someone want to kill her?
Are all the murders perpetrated by the same individual? Is the killer killing for fun or there is another unthinkable and sinister motive behind the murders?
Murder at Larkfield Barn is an enjoyable, engaging and fast paced cozy mystery, with some really good twists and turns.
Thanks to the author, Bookouture and the NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
After not showing up for a tea gathering, Melissa goes to her neighbor’s cottage to check on her. But what she finds will haunt her for a long time. Her neighbor has become the fourth victim of this heartless criminal. But something is not right.
The fourth victim wasn’t bedridden. She was indeed active and lively. So why would someone want to kill her?
Are all the murders perpetrated by the same individual? Is the killer killing for fun or there is another unthinkable and sinister motive behind the murders?
Murder at Larkfield Barn is an enjoyable, engaging and fast paced cozy mystery, with some really good twists and turns.
Thanks to the author, Bookouture and the NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
January 22, 2019
Murder at Larkfield Barn, the seventh novel in the Melissa Craig Cosy Mystery Series by veteran writer Betty Rowlands and first released in 1996 as Smiling at Death, is full of the joys of spring with beautiful spring blooms, frigid air and an emergence of colour after a dreary Autumn and Winter period with their muted shades of grey and brown. Once again we join the inimitable Melissa Craig in the chocolate-box village of Upper Benbury in the scenic Cotswolds, and unlike most of the other books in the series this one had me rather creeped out, in particular due to the taunting cheshire-cat smile that has been painted onto the face of the elderly murder victim.
Although a long-running series each book stands well on its own as each tends to have a self-contained storyline, and this one is no exception. I did, hoedvrr, find the plot in this seventh instalment more compelling and scary than any of the other preceding six; the killers signature ensures said infivifusly shines bright. Well plotted and paced with engaging characters, and a clean, profanity-free story that will appeal to those who appreciate their crime fiction relatively tame; I would definitely say this was the most enjoyable so far for me.
Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Although a long-running series each book stands well on its own as each tends to have a self-contained storyline, and this one is no exception. I did, hoedvrr, find the plot in this seventh instalment more compelling and scary than any of the other preceding six; the killers signature ensures said infivifusly shines bright. Well plotted and paced with engaging characters, and a clean, profanity-free story that will appeal to those who appreciate their crime fiction relatively tame; I would definitely say this was the most enjoyable so far for me.
Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
December 21, 2018
4 stars
Melissa Craig mystery writer and part-time amateur sleuth is in a relationship with Ken Harris who owns a private investigation firm.
Asked to look in on an elderly neighbor, Mel heads for Martha Willis’ cottage. She discovers a horrible scene. Martha is dead – murdered with her face painted. This reminds Ken of some recent cases he has heard about in a nearby town. The locals have dubbed the serial killer as “The Smiler.”
Menawhile Ken received a visit from a Mrs. Aggs. She was extremely upset at her husband’s apparent indiscretions. Surprised at the cost of having him followed, she leaves the office. But later she corners Mel and tells her about her fears. It wasn’t about infidelity at all. It was something far worse – at least in Mrs. Aggs’ eyes.
Of course Mel gets involved in the search for Martha Willis’ killer. At the same time she makes friends with new villagers Genty and Sirry and their famous artist father. They become close as does Mel’s very good friend Iris.
Ken makes a startling discovery and in a dramatic conclusion to the story the killer(s) are revealed. I was so totally surprised at the identity that I had to read the passages twice. I’m still shaking my head at it.
This is a very well written and plotted novel as are all of Betty Rowlands’ books. It is a relatively gentle read and the story flows along nicely. I truly enjoyed it as much as I did the other in the series. I will certainly be in line to read more of Mel and Ken’s adventures.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review.
Melissa Craig mystery writer and part-time amateur sleuth is in a relationship with Ken Harris who owns a private investigation firm.
Asked to look in on an elderly neighbor, Mel heads for Martha Willis’ cottage. She discovers a horrible scene. Martha is dead – murdered with her face painted. This reminds Ken of some recent cases he has heard about in a nearby town. The locals have dubbed the serial killer as “The Smiler.”
Menawhile Ken received a visit from a Mrs. Aggs. She was extremely upset at her husband’s apparent indiscretions. Surprised at the cost of having him followed, she leaves the office. But later she corners Mel and tells her about her fears. It wasn’t about infidelity at all. It was something far worse – at least in Mrs. Aggs’ eyes.
Of course Mel gets involved in the search for Martha Willis’ killer. At the same time she makes friends with new villagers Genty and Sirry and their famous artist father. They become close as does Mel’s very good friend Iris.
Ken makes a startling discovery and in a dramatic conclusion to the story the killer(s) are revealed. I was so totally surprised at the identity that I had to read the passages twice. I’m still shaking my head at it.
This is a very well written and plotted novel as are all of Betty Rowlands’ books. It is a relatively gentle read and the story flows along nicely. I truly enjoyed it as much as I did the other in the series. I will certainly be in line to read more of Mel and Ken’s adventures.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review.
January 24, 2019
Ok, Ok, I know I told yçu the previous part was my favourite one, but I am a woman so I am allowed to change my mind. LOL. I definitely pick this one at the moment, but hey, maybe I will alter it again.
The stories are getting better and better. I thought this book had the most complicated, interesting and scary plot up till now which is something crime lovers always crave.
There is also a nice evolution in the lives of the recurring characters.
There is only one thing I like to add : I just simply loved it. 5 stars.
Thank you, Betty Rowlands, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
The stories are getting better and better. I thought this book had the most complicated, interesting and scary plot up till now which is something crime lovers always crave.
There is also a nice evolution in the lives of the recurring characters.
There is only one thing I like to add : I just simply loved it. 5 stars.
Thank you, Betty Rowlands, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
January 25, 2019
When I write these longer reviews, I generally take some notes immediately after reading then mull things over for a day or two to see how I feel about the book and what sticks with me. Unfortunately in this case, what stuck with me was very little.
While reading it, the book served as reasonable distraction and entertainment, so I would give it 3 stars. The POV felt a bit headhoppy initially, but it later settled into more of an omniscient feel. The average reader probably won't be bothered by this.
The way in which the killer was revealed was not fully satisfying to me, although I struggle to explain that without unwanted spoilers. Again, this is probably more a personal taste factor.
The one thing that did stick with me about this book is that the title never really seemed to fit the story. That made me expect something else to happen that didn't, although I was still correct in my early conclusion of who was responsible.
If you are a cozy fan and looking for a quick read to pass the time, this book will likely be suitable. I am sure also those already bonded to the characters will enjoy it more than I did. It didn't leave me out of things so much as it merely failed to engage me sufficiently.
While reading it, the book served as reasonable distraction and entertainment, so I would give it 3 stars. The POV felt a bit headhoppy initially, but it later settled into more of an omniscient feel. The average reader probably won't be bothered by this.
The way in which the killer was revealed was not fully satisfying to me, although I struggle to explain that without unwanted spoilers. Again, this is probably more a personal taste factor.
The one thing that did stick with me about this book is that the title never really seemed to fit the story. That made me expect something else to happen that didn't, although I was still correct in my early conclusion of who was responsible.
If you are a cozy fan and looking for a quick read to pass the time, this book will likely be suitable. I am sure also those already bonded to the characters will enjoy it more than I did. It didn't leave me out of things so much as it merely failed to engage me sufficiently.
April 13, 2022
"The once quiet, sleepy Cotswolds town of Stowbridge has been plagued by a sex strangler, a series of burglaries and, most recently, the death of Gloucestershire's most prolific novelist, Leonora Jewell.
"Crime writer Melissa Craig is persuaded to complete Jewell's unfinished novel and is alarmed to discover that the author's death may not have been an accident. After unearthing clues in the script which suggest a motive for murder, she begins to do a little independent sleuthing.
"As Melissa pieces together the clues and comes to a new twist in Jewell's novel, so the mystery of Stowbridge's crime wave takes a bizarre twist of its own before coming to an intriguing conclusion."
~~back cover
A nicely plotted little cozy mystery. As usual, Melissa allows her curiosity lead her into dodgy situations. I noted the culprit early on, even though the signs were minimal. Melissa isn't as smart as one would think, being a writer of mysteries, because at the end, she allows the culprit to come visit her lonely cottage at night, and then promptly spills the beans to him ... even though I was mentally screaming "Melissa, don't do it!" Honestly, you'd think she'd have better sense, but it did indeed make for an intriguing conclusion.
"Crime writer Melissa Craig is persuaded to complete Jewell's unfinished novel and is alarmed to discover that the author's death may not have been an accident. After unearthing clues in the script which suggest a motive for murder, she begins to do a little independent sleuthing.
"As Melissa pieces together the clues and comes to a new twist in Jewell's novel, so the mystery of Stowbridge's crime wave takes a bizarre twist of its own before coming to an intriguing conclusion."
~~back cover
A nicely plotted little cozy mystery. As usual, Melissa allows her curiosity lead her into dodgy situations. I noted the culprit early on, even though the signs were minimal. Melissa isn't as smart as one would think, being a writer of mysteries, because at the end, she allows the culprit to come visit her lonely cottage at night, and then promptly spills the beans to him ... even though I was mentally screaming "Melissa, don't do it!" Honestly, you'd think she'd have better sense, but it did indeed make for an intriguing conclusion.
May 29, 2023
Minu arvamuse leiab blogist https://triinuraamatud.wordpress.com/...
January 12, 2019
I read Book Seven in the series out of sequence by mistake, the perils of starting a book at four o'clock in the morning when you can't sleep. The upside to this being I can vouch that it reads well as a standalone, but this series is so entertaining that you want to read all the books.
This story is darker and more personal to amateur sleuth, crime writer Melissa Craig. Discovering the body of a friend and neighbour has a believable, profound effect on Melissa, which means she is reticent to be at the forefront of the investigation. Aside from the murder mystery, this book marks a turning point for both Iris, her close friend and neighbour and Melissa.
The characters are numerous and varied and this is perhaps one of the most difficult mysteries to solve. It does have its lighthearted moments, but there is also an air of menace not present in earlier books coupled with an overriding sense of loss and poignancy.
Despite the change in ethos, this story is as enjoyable as previous books, just deeper and more personal for the main character. Left on an emotional cliffhanger, I eagerly await Book 8 'Murder in Langley Woods.'
I received a copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
June 10, 2021
On the whole an easy, light read. I have previously liked Betty Rowlands' writing so it surprised me to find the first third, maybe even half, slow going and unengaging. However I did find the story more engaging as I read on so it's worth persevering.
I value strong characterisation in books so maybe this was what was lacking; until I really got to know the characters the book couldn't hold me.
The perpetrators (more than one murder) were signalled very early on but the working out by Mel Craig and her ex-policeman friend was interesting as were the personal stories involved.
I value strong characterisation in books so maybe this was what was lacking; until I really got to know the characters the book couldn't hold me.
The perpetrators (more than one murder) were signalled very early on but the working out by Mel Craig and her ex-policeman friend was interesting as were the personal stories involved.
December 20, 2018
I’ve had a bit of a binge session reading these books, so I’ll do my reviews all on my post! They are fabulous books to pick up and put down when you have five minutes here and there. The books are all part of the Melissa Craig series, but they can be read as standalone books with no problems at all. They also have all been released under different titles in the past, but the book fairy has come along and brought them right up to date with new covers and titles! They are delightful in the way that they are “cosy crime” books, meaning that there is no blood and gore, no overly violent scenes and a little bit of humour thrown in for good measure. If you like books written by the great Agatha Christie or MC Beaton, then you will love these!
Murder on a Winter Afternoon
This has previously been released as Deadly Legacy. Crime author and amateur sleuth, Melissa Craig is back in this Christmas themed mystery. Following the death of local author, Leonora Jewell, Melissa is asked to finish off Leonora’s last book. But when she visits Leonora’s cottage, she finds an iron blood which is covered in blood and suspects that Leonora was murdered. With the Police not believing her, Melissa decides to investigate Leonora’s death herself.
Murder in the Orchard
This has previously been released as Malice Poetic. Melissa Craig is asked to investigate some threatening notes which have been received by the owner of a nearby country house, but before she can do any kind of investigating, the owner is found dead in his own orchard. Universally hated, Melissa discovers that he wouldn’t have won any prizes in a popularity contest, but who hated him enough to kill him. Can she find the killer before they strike again?
Murder at Larkfield Barn
This has been previously been released as Smiling at Death. We are back in Upper Benbury where Melissa is shocked to discover one of her old neighbours has been murdered and the killer has painted a horrific smile on her face. Looking at her other neighbours and people who live in the Village, is the killer closer to home than Melissa could have imagined?
These were all great books to read. I love the character of Melissa Craig! Being a crime writer, she obviously finds it useful when she is investigating all these terrible murders that she appears to always be caught up in! I would like to imagine her to be your typical quintessential English lady, all dressed in tweed with thick ribbed tights and very sensible shoes, but reality probably has Melissa as a bit more ‘normal’ than that! She comes across as a bit of a “nosey neighbour”, but one that definitely has a heart of hold! One thing you could definitely say of Melissa though is how unlucky she must be to always be around when a murder has been committed!!
The characters, not just in these three books but in all of them I’ve read so far, are fun, interesting and likeable. As the books move on and some of the earlier characters begin to come back into the later stories, you begin to build a relationship with not just Melissa, but some of her friends as well. The locations of the books, and particularly the village of Upper Benbury, are beautifully set and you can just picture Melissa rushing round the countryside looking for clues as you read!
I would whole heartedly recommend these books if you’re after a good old fashioned whodunit! You won’t have to cover your eyes from fear or rest your uneasy stomach after too much blood and gore! What you will get though is a series of very easy to read books that are fun and light-hearted, but with enough crime and mystery to keep you trying to work out the clues before Melissa does!! If you’ve never tried a cosy mystery book before, then what are you waiting for!
Murder on a Winter Afternoon
This has previously been released as Deadly Legacy. Crime author and amateur sleuth, Melissa Craig is back in this Christmas themed mystery. Following the death of local author, Leonora Jewell, Melissa is asked to finish off Leonora’s last book. But when she visits Leonora’s cottage, she finds an iron blood which is covered in blood and suspects that Leonora was murdered. With the Police not believing her, Melissa decides to investigate Leonora’s death herself.
Murder in the Orchard
This has previously been released as Malice Poetic. Melissa Craig is asked to investigate some threatening notes which have been received by the owner of a nearby country house, but before she can do any kind of investigating, the owner is found dead in his own orchard. Universally hated, Melissa discovers that he wouldn’t have won any prizes in a popularity contest, but who hated him enough to kill him. Can she find the killer before they strike again?
Murder at Larkfield Barn
This has been previously been released as Smiling at Death. We are back in Upper Benbury where Melissa is shocked to discover one of her old neighbours has been murdered and the killer has painted a horrific smile on her face. Looking at her other neighbours and people who live in the Village, is the killer closer to home than Melissa could have imagined?
These were all great books to read. I love the character of Melissa Craig! Being a crime writer, she obviously finds it useful when she is investigating all these terrible murders that she appears to always be caught up in! I would like to imagine her to be your typical quintessential English lady, all dressed in tweed with thick ribbed tights and very sensible shoes, but reality probably has Melissa as a bit more ‘normal’ than that! She comes across as a bit of a “nosey neighbour”, but one that definitely has a heart of hold! One thing you could definitely say of Melissa though is how unlucky she must be to always be around when a murder has been committed!!
The characters, not just in these three books but in all of them I’ve read so far, are fun, interesting and likeable. As the books move on and some of the earlier characters begin to come back into the later stories, you begin to build a relationship with not just Melissa, but some of her friends as well. The locations of the books, and particularly the village of Upper Benbury, are beautifully set and you can just picture Melissa rushing round the countryside looking for clues as you read!
I would whole heartedly recommend these books if you’re after a good old fashioned whodunit! You won’t have to cover your eyes from fear or rest your uneasy stomach after too much blood and gore! What you will get though is a series of very easy to read books that are fun and light-hearted, but with enough crime and mystery to keep you trying to work out the clues before Melissa does!! If you’ve never tried a cosy mystery book before, then what are you waiting for!
January 5, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Bookouture for a copy of this cozy mystery in exchange for an honest review.
Murder at Larkfield Barn is Book 7 in the Melissa Craig Mystery series. This was my first book by Betty Rowlands and it was written so seamlessly that it was easy to dive right in and not be confused having not read the first 6 books. The characters are engaging, you care about them and you want to know more about Melissa and her friend Ken Harris - former copper, turned private investigator.
The Cotswalds brings to mind peace and tranquility. Not so in the village of Upper Benbury where a serial killer is targeting the old and the defenseless. The killer dubbed "the Smiler" kills and then paints hideous smiles on the faces of his/her victims. When a dear neighbour of Melissa's is the latest victim, she starts looking into the killing and is shocked to find that there have been other similar murders. What do a charismatic preacher, his loyal female college student followers, a reclusive artist and his family all have to do with what has been going on in the village?
I'm definately looking forward to exploring more of the books in the Melissa Craig series and happily give this book 5 stars.
Murder at Larkfield Barn is Book 7 in the Melissa Craig Mystery series. This was my first book by Betty Rowlands and it was written so seamlessly that it was easy to dive right in and not be confused having not read the first 6 books. The characters are engaging, you care about them and you want to know more about Melissa and her friend Ken Harris - former copper, turned private investigator.
The Cotswalds brings to mind peace and tranquility. Not so in the village of Upper Benbury where a serial killer is targeting the old and the defenseless. The killer dubbed "the Smiler" kills and then paints hideous smiles on the faces of his/her victims. When a dear neighbour of Melissa's is the latest victim, she starts looking into the killing and is shocked to find that there have been other similar murders. What do a charismatic preacher, his loyal female college student followers, a reclusive artist and his family all have to do with what has been going on in the village?
I'm definately looking forward to exploring more of the books in the Melissa Craig series and happily give this book 5 stars.
November 12, 2018
In this fifth instalment of Betty Rowlands series of books featuring her heroine, Melissa Craig, the action is once again set in the Cotswolds, this time as the cold sometime snowy weather is prevalent. All the main characters from the previous stories are here, helping or hindering the investigation and trying, usually unsuccessfully, to keep Melissa out of trouble
As always this is a gentle slow burning story in which the hunt for clues and suspects is interspersed with morning walks, the weekly visit from the cleaner and dinner with friends. Although this is a re-released novel from the days before social media, blogs and ebooks the mobile phone finally makes an appearance but not with the regularity it would if the book was set in the modern era.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this novel thanks to Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review and recommend it for anyone who likes a cosy mystery to read in one or two sittings. Each book in the series stands alone but I have thoroughly enjoyed reading each of the five titles re-released so far in order and hope more will become available next year.
As always this is a gentle slow burning story in which the hunt for clues and suspects is interspersed with morning walks, the weekly visit from the cleaner and dinner with friends. Although this is a re-released novel from the days before social media, blogs and ebooks the mobile phone finally makes an appearance but not with the regularity it would if the book was set in the modern era.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this novel thanks to Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review and recommend it for anyone who likes a cosy mystery to read in one or two sittings. Each book in the series stands alone but I have thoroughly enjoyed reading each of the five titles re-released so far in order and hope more will become available next year.
February 4, 2019
Murder at Larkfield Barn is the second of the Melissa Craig mysteries I’ve read, so while I usually avoid books with serial killers, I knew the type of book it was going to be and wasn’t too concerned. Melissa is a mystery writer with a Private Investigator boyfriend, so it’s really no wonder she gets mixed up in these mysteries.
The blurb gives you the lay-out. There’s a serial killer in the area who paints horrible smiles on the victims. But the police aren’t convinced the murder in Upper Benbury was committed by the same person, maybe it’s a copycat. It turns out that of course there’s more than one killer. And Melissa is always at just the right place at the right time to put all the clues together.
Rowland can be a little heavy-handed in this one. The foreshadowing is annoying rather than suspense-building. It’s pretty easy to guess who the killer(s) are, just based on how they’re portrayed, but the clues are solid. The main character, Melissa, her boyfriend, her neighbor Iris, are enjoyable to spend time with, but I think I liked the last one I read more than this one.
The blurb gives you the lay-out. There’s a serial killer in the area who paints horrible smiles on the victims. But the police aren’t convinced the murder in Upper Benbury was committed by the same person, maybe it’s a copycat. It turns out that of course there’s more than one killer. And Melissa is always at just the right place at the right time to put all the clues together.
Rowland can be a little heavy-handed in this one. The foreshadowing is annoying rather than suspense-building. It’s pretty easy to guess who the killer(s) are, just based on how they’re portrayed, but the clues are solid. The main character, Melissa, her boyfriend, her neighbor Iris, are enjoyable to spend time with, but I think I liked the last one I read more than this one.
July 30, 2023
Maalilise Cotswoldi ühte küla raputab eaka asuka mõrv. Surnukeha leidnud Melissa Craig (tuntud krimikirjanik ja isehakanud detektiiv) avastab seejärel, et armsa naabri surm sarnaneb vägagi teiste Cotswoldis toimunud mõrvadega: vanad ja üksi elavad naised on lämmatatud ja nende näole on maalitud koletislikud naeratused..
Kas Naeratajaks tituleeritud sarimõrvar ründab taas ja kas keegi saab veel end üldse turvaliselt tunda?
Tegu väga malbe krimiga. Seega õrnahingelistele vägagi sobilik. Meenutab veidi Midsomeri mõrvasid oma väikese küla atmosfääri ja malbete surnukehadega, mida on üksjagu, aga tekivad kui möödaminnes. Tegevus toimub rohkem nagu kõige muu ümber ja avastus, kes siis tegelik tapja on, tuleb kui kogemata lihtsalt seepärast, et keegi sattus olema õigel ajal õiges kohas ja pani lõpuks 1 ja 1 kokku..
Nautisin seda samamoodi nagu võigast krimkat..
Kuigi jah, pigem tavaliselt eelistan rohkem põnevust ja räigemat kuritööd kui siin oli, kuid vahelduseks on ka selline rahulikult kulgev tapatöö täitsa tore lugeda..
Kas Naeratajaks tituleeritud sarimõrvar ründab taas ja kas keegi saab veel end üldse turvaliselt tunda?
Tegu väga malbe krimiga. Seega õrnahingelistele vägagi sobilik. Meenutab veidi Midsomeri mõrvasid oma väikese küla atmosfääri ja malbete surnukehadega, mida on üksjagu, aga tekivad kui möödaminnes. Tegevus toimub rohkem nagu kõige muu ümber ja avastus, kes siis tegelik tapja on, tuleb kui kogemata lihtsalt seepärast, et keegi sattus olema õigel ajal õiges kohas ja pani lõpuks 1 ja 1 kokku..
Nautisin seda samamoodi nagu võigast krimkat..
Kuigi jah, pigem tavaliselt eelistan rohkem põnevust ja räigemat kuritööd kui siin oli, kuid vahelduseks on ka selline rahulikult kulgev tapatöö täitsa tore lugeda..
January 16, 2019
I'm rapidly becoming a big fan of the Mel Craig mysteries. The more of them I read, the more that I enjoy.
This instalment, number seven in the series, is in some ways slightly different from the previous books. Where Mel has found herself in the thick of investigations, usually against the wishes of her policeman boyfriend Ken, she takes a less active role in investigating this time. It still works well though and I liked the bigger role that Ken played.
I wasn't sure about the relationship with Mel and Ken and wasn't sure if it was going to work or not. Things had changed a little by this book. Ken is no longer with the police service but has set up his own investigation service. He is away a bit seeing to other cases that he his working on, but much of the mystery this time is shown through him. Although Mel is still a little standoffish with him, I think that they will work things out in the end.
Again with this one, I had more or less solved it all by the time that they had. It worked and was enjoyable to read about, which ticks the big boxes for me with murder mysteries.
As I said, this book had a different feel to the others in some ways, but it was still a really good Mel Craig mystery. It goes without saying that I'm looking forward to the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This instalment, number seven in the series, is in some ways slightly different from the previous books. Where Mel has found herself in the thick of investigations, usually against the wishes of her policeman boyfriend Ken, she takes a less active role in investigating this time. It still works well though and I liked the bigger role that Ken played.
I wasn't sure about the relationship with Mel and Ken and wasn't sure if it was going to work or not. Things had changed a little by this book. Ken is no longer with the police service but has set up his own investigation service. He is away a bit seeing to other cases that he his working on, but much of the mystery this time is shown through him. Although Mel is still a little standoffish with him, I think that they will work things out in the end.
Again with this one, I had more or less solved it all by the time that they had. It worked and was enjoyable to read about, which ticks the big boxes for me with murder mysteries.
As I said, this book had a different feel to the others in some ways, but it was still a really good Mel Craig mystery. It goes without saying that I'm looking forward to the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 22, 2022
It's spring in the Cotswalds and Mel is anxious to get working on her garden. Her boyfriend, Ken, has quit the police and started his own private investigations firm. New people have moved into the neighbourhood, an artist that Iris was taught by at art college and his two daughters. After a drinks party in the neighbourhood, Mel drops in on an elderly woman who had missed the party and finds her dead in her bed with a hideous smile painted on her face. She learns from Ken that several seniors in a nearby village have been smothered and painted in a similar way, and now the killer is in her village. Mel gets involved with a wealthy woman who organizing a used clothing sale at her massive house, and she learns that not everything here is as is seems. It all comes together on a sunny April day when the killer is revealed.
I've now read all the Melissa Craig books, and I recommend this series. Mel is a good character, and some of the later books are even better than this one.
I've now read all the Melissa Craig books, and I recommend this series. Mel is a good character, and some of the later books are even better than this one.
January 26, 2019
Another very entertaining book!
Every one of these books is a joy to read, and try to figure out who the bad guys are. Sometimes they're really bad, and sometimes they're just unfortunate. Sadly it's hard to say in this book. Sometimes a person or persons are so mislead it's hard to understand the why of the matter. Except that murder is murder! No matter how you look at it. The taking of an innocent life no matter their quality of life, it's their life to live it out. No one has the right to take that life. At the end of the book, without giving anything away, is something I was expecting to happen throughout the book. Hope I didn't spill anything here. It's wonderful, but it's also going to change things up. I hope if you decide to read this book, start with the first one. They're much better knowing the characters from the on set of the stories.
Every one of these books is a joy to read, and try to figure out who the bad guys are. Sometimes they're really bad, and sometimes they're just unfortunate. Sadly it's hard to say in this book. Sometimes a person or persons are so mislead it's hard to understand the why of the matter. Except that murder is murder! No matter how you look at it. The taking of an innocent life no matter their quality of life, it's their life to live it out. No one has the right to take that life. At the end of the book, without giving anything away, is something I was expecting to happen throughout the book. Hope I didn't spill anything here. It's wonderful, but it's also going to change things up. I hope if you decide to read this book, start with the first one. They're much better knowing the characters from the on set of the stories.
January 23, 2019
Once more Melissa Craig’s ends up slap bang in the middle of a mystery which is far too close to home for her liking. I had guessed who it was committing the crimes in this book, to a certain extent, but it didn’t spoil the read for me.
I still love the relationships Mel has with those closest to her, Iris and Ken. Both of these characters are totally different, and they bring out the best in Mel. The bombshell at the end of this story, however, may well change one of those relationships in the next book.
Another lovely, easy read. I can’t wait for the next book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy.
I still love the relationships Mel has with those closest to her, Iris and Ken. Both of these characters are totally different, and they bring out the best in Mel. The bombshell at the end of this story, however, may well change one of those relationships in the next book.
Another lovely, easy read. I can’t wait for the next book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy.
September 10, 2019
Lovely Read.
Enjoyable village murder solving author Meg Craig and her sidekicks , bring village life alive.Ken Harris PI Former police detective as well as Iris her neighbour and best friend and a renowned world known artist .You will want to read all of the books in the series . They become like long time friends you are meeting for tea and a chat . If you like English mysteries like I do then these books are a must read ! What I am not fond of I could not find paper copies anywhere local . I chose the rating as the setting and characters give one the feel of being with old friends that you want to visited with again and again.
Enjoyable village murder solving author Meg Craig and her sidekicks , bring village life alive.Ken Harris PI Former police detective as well as Iris her neighbour and best friend and a renowned world known artist .You will want to read all of the books in the series . They become like long time friends you are meeting for tea and a chat . If you like English mysteries like I do then these books are a must read ! What I am not fond of I could not find paper copies anywhere local . I chose the rating as the setting and characters give one the feel of being with old friends that you want to visited with again and again.
July 31, 2023
Tegemist on Melissa Craigi krimilugude seitsmenda raamatuga. Kuues raamat on ka tegelikult veel, kus keski puuviljaaias mõrvatakse, aga sellest hüppasin esialgu üle, nii et loen tagantjärele. Samas on need raamatud erinevalt paljudest teistest sarjadest ka täitsa eraldi loetavad, sest põhiasjad mainitakse igas teoses eraldi paari lausega ära. Isikliku elu liin on ka täpselt selline, kus ülemäära palju pole vaja teada. Seekordne mõrvaseeria on aga juba selline, kus "vajaduspõhist" mõrva saab küsimuse alla seada. Rahulikult põnev on aga siiski. Üllatavalt rohkem teoseid sellest sarjast maakeeli ilmunud polegi, aga küll nad tulevad ja siis kavatsen endiselt sarja lugemist jätkata.
January 7, 2019
Another successful entry to the Mel Craig series. A serial killer is targeting elderly residents, unfortunately poor Mel learns of the killings by discovering one of the victims. Mel isn’t as dangerously involved in this case, discovering the disfigured corpse has really been difficult to cope with. Former DI Ken has now started his own PI firm, and he is the one who actually solves the case.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy of the book, all opinions are my own.
Highly recommend.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy of the book, all opinions are my own.
Highly recommend.
February 18, 2019
You can tell the plot was intentionally deeper on this one. The characters were more diverse and the storyline followed a more intricate route. As always, I like Betty Rowland’s ability to create an interesting story without it being too creepy or leaving me awake at night. It’s not the most intense book and certainly not one I couldn’t put down, but the story is exactly what it says: a cozy mystery.
Also Joan Walker does an excellent job at making the story come to life. I can play the audio through the house while I’m cooking or cleaning and keep up with the pace easily.
Also Joan Walker does an excellent job at making the story come to life. I can play the audio through the house while I’m cooking or cleaning and keep up with the pace easily.
June 18, 2020
Murder at Larkfield Barn
Mel Craig discovers the body of a villager and it appears she is the victim of a serial killer. Soon Melissa finds herself caught up in another murder case.
Yet another brilliant book by Betty Rowlands which sees the characters go from strength to strength. I was unable to put it down as I got so engrossed in it. I'm already looking forward to the next book.
Highly recommended.
Mel Craig discovers the body of a villager and it appears she is the victim of a serial killer. Soon Melissa finds herself caught up in another murder case.
Yet another brilliant book by Betty Rowlands which sees the characters go from strength to strength. I was unable to put it down as I got so engrossed in it. I'm already looking forward to the next book.
Highly recommended.
December 25, 2023
Veel üks õdus krimilugu Melissa Craig'iga. Ehkki tema kaaslane Ken Harris on siirdunud politseitöölt eradetektiivi leiba teenima, jõuavad krimikirjanikuni siiski üsnagi kiirelt uudised ümbruskonnas toimuvatest sündmustest. Sedapuhku on keegi võtnud sihikule vanemad inimesed ning kui Melissa ühe tuttava vanainimese tapetuna avastab, mõjub see talle väga shokeerivalt. Tema ümber toimub ka muid kummalisi sündmusi, mis imelikul kombel üha enam omavahel põimuma hakkavad...
July 25, 2019
Lipstick murder mystery
Betty Rowlands keeps you turning the pages trying to figure out what will happen next. The characters are realistic and the plot is so twisted it could be a roller coaster. The main reason I keep reading this series is the books are clean, well written, entertaining and always fun.
Betty Rowlands keeps you turning the pages trying to figure out what will happen next. The characters are realistic and the plot is so twisted it could be a roller coaster. The main reason I keep reading this series is the books are clean, well written, entertaining and always fun.
May 25, 2022
Interesting Read
I really like this series. I realized early on that center characters would be involved but not sure how. I also was confused by what is happening with Ken. I still enjoyed the read and will definitely read the next book in the series. Sorry to see one of my favorite characters leaving.
I really like this series. I realized early on that center characters would be involved but not sure how. I also was confused by what is happening with Ken. I still enjoyed the read and will definitely read the next book in the series. Sorry to see one of my favorite characters leaving.
February 5, 2019
Another great mystery
Loved this book, and all the others. Great mysteries, and love the descriptions of the cottages and countryside. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Loved this book, and all the others. Great mysteries, and love the descriptions of the cottages and countryside. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
March 27, 2019
Never disappointed!
Never disappointed by one of these Melissa Craig mysteries. Always interesting characters, always a really good mystery,and the beauty of the Cotswalds as a backdrop.
Never disappointed by one of these Melissa Craig mysteries. Always interesting characters, always a really good mystery,and the beauty of the Cotswalds as a backdrop.
March 29, 2019
not as abrupt as the last, but still sudden
good mystery. nice twist. who doesn’t tell the police they know a material witness THE MINUTE the meet them? and why would a ex-cop boyfriend not break up with her? the main character does some seriously weird things.
good mystery. nice twist. who doesn’t tell the police they know a material witness THE MINUTE the meet them? and why would a ex-cop boyfriend not break up with her? the main character does some seriously weird things.
January 27, 2019
They keep getting better...
And I can't wait to see what the next installment brings! This is a series that never disappoints. Cozy mysteries have become a favorite genre of mine.
And I can't wait to see what the next installment brings! This is a series that never disappoints. Cozy mysteries have become a favorite genre of mine.
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