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Eve Mallow Mystery #12
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove
Saxford St Peter is having an open gardens day! But one of the villagers has murder, not marigolds, in mind… And now Eve Mallow needs to unearth a killer.
Everyone in Saxford is delighted when jeweller Cleo Marbeck suggests a prize for the village’s best garden. Flowers are planted, grass is cut, and the competition is on. But the event only digs up dirt… Twenty-five years ago, a young woman fell to her death in Cleo’s house, and rumours soon resurface about Cleo’s part in the tragedy.
Eve’s best friend Viv is hosting Stevie, her son’s fiancée, ahead of the wedding. On the open garden day, Stevie has a horrible flashback: the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase. But she sees it in a totally different house from the one where Honor died…
Hours later Cleo’s body is found, drowned in her own pond. Almost everyone in Saxford has been in and out of her garden, sowing suspicion everywhere. But Eve is convinced the flashback has triggered the crime… and when the police turn their sights on Stevie, she’ll have to work fast to solve the case and save the wedding.
So who wanted Cleo in the ground? The son of the woman who died, out for revenge? The employee passed over for promotion? Her long-term lover, who she refused to marry? And why do so many suspects live on Meadowsweet Grove?
When someone else takes a tumble downstairs, Eve knows she’s close to grubbing up the truth. But can she catch the killer or is she heading for a fatal fall?
Everyone in Saxford is delighted when jeweller Cleo Marbeck suggests a prize for the village’s best garden. Flowers are planted, grass is cut, and the competition is on. But the event only digs up dirt… Twenty-five years ago, a young woman fell to her death in Cleo’s house, and rumours soon resurface about Cleo’s part in the tragedy.
Eve’s best friend Viv is hosting Stevie, her son’s fiancée, ahead of the wedding. On the open garden day, Stevie has a horrible flashback: the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase. But she sees it in a totally different house from the one where Honor died…
Hours later Cleo’s body is found, drowned in her own pond. Almost everyone in Saxford has been in and out of her garden, sowing suspicion everywhere. But Eve is convinced the flashback has triggered the crime… and when the police turn their sights on Stevie, she’ll have to work fast to solve the case and save the wedding.
So who wanted Cleo in the ground? The son of the woman who died, out for revenge? The employee passed over for promotion? Her long-term lover, who she refused to marry? And why do so many suspects live on Meadowsweet Grove?
When someone else takes a tumble downstairs, Eve knows she’s close to grubbing up the truth. But can she catch the killer or is she heading for a fatal fall?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2024
899 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Clare Chase
34 books317 followersClare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations.
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
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May 4, 2024
The twelfth book in the series and I have read the previous two books.
As usual there is a murder, the local police detective is hopeless, and Eve decides to investigate the case herself. There are two clever things about this series. Firstly Eve is an obituary writer which gives her the perfect excuse to be interviewing friends and relations of the deceased. Secondly her partner has contacts in the police force which helps her gain insider knowledge.
I wished the author had not begun the book with a prologue - I prefer not to know at the outset who is going to die and when. It makes the event when it occurs to be rather dull. That's just me though and the book itself was very readable. Eve takes a sound logical approach to her investigating, uses a large group of friends to help and tries never to put herself into danger. Three stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
As usual there is a murder, the local police detective is hopeless, and Eve decides to investigate the case herself. There are two clever things about this series. Firstly Eve is an obituary writer which gives her the perfect excuse to be interviewing friends and relations of the deceased. Secondly her partner has contacts in the police force which helps her gain insider knowledge.
I wished the author had not begun the book with a prologue - I prefer not to know at the outset who is going to die and when. It makes the event when it occurs to be rather dull. That's just me though and the book itself was very readable. Eve takes a sound logical approach to her investigating, uses a large group of friends to help and tries never to put herself into danger. Three stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 2, 2024
Eve Mallow is an obituary writer, but that is just the tip of the iceberg as to what she does. Because of wanting to write great tributes, Eve looks into the backgrounds of those she writes about, often finding herself doing a fabulous job as an amateur sleuth So, Eve has proved Show more than adept at solving murders. However, in this latest outing, the original murder took place a quarter of a century ago, and comes to mind due to a flashback of a young woman about to marry.
The young woman, Stevie, who has had the flashback, is the fiancé of Eve’s best friend’s son. Eve’s friend Viv has been in many of the books in this engaging series. As Eve is interested in knowing about the long ago murder, a current murder takes place. So Eve goes about trying to solve both murders. She is wondering if Stevie’s flashback is connected to the current murder, so quite naturally Eve is determined to do more than simply write the upcoming obituary.
But, that is not why Eve is in Sanford St. Peter. She is there as it is open gardens day. Going from enjoying the beautiful gardens as well as to see who will win the offered prize for the village’s best garden, to solving murders, is exactly Eve’s specialty. Eve, and her dear friend Robin - a former police officer now gardener - further grow their close relationship by assisting the police and working to solve the murders.
Twelve books in and this series has never lost traction. Instead, each story, and Eve’s delightful approach to solving murders, is just the exact cup of tea one needs when it comes to enjoying a light read, and one that is impossible to put down.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The young woman, Stevie, who has had the flashback, is the fiancé of Eve’s best friend’s son. Eve’s friend Viv has been in many of the books in this engaging series. As Eve is interested in knowing about the long ago murder, a current murder takes place. So Eve goes about trying to solve both murders. She is wondering if Stevie’s flashback is connected to the current murder, so quite naturally Eve is determined to do more than simply write the upcoming obituary.
But, that is not why Eve is in Sanford St. Peter. She is there as it is open gardens day. Going from enjoying the beautiful gardens as well as to see who will win the offered prize for the village’s best garden, to solving murders, is exactly Eve’s specialty. Eve, and her dear friend Robin - a former police officer now gardener - further grow their close relationship by assisting the police and working to solve the murders.
Twelve books in and this series has never lost traction. Instead, each story, and Eve’s delightful approach to solving murders, is just the exact cup of tea one needs when it comes to enjoying a light read, and one that is impossible to put down.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 9, 2024
I’ve read all 12 books, and I have to say this one was my least favorite one, for some reason the book seemed to drag on longer than it felt it should have been.
I do like that the characters are being more and more exploring their personalities to the stories, and look forward to Eve’s next adventure.
I do like that the characters are being more and more exploring their personalities to the stories, and look forward to Eve’s next adventure.
May 10, 2024
I wanted to like this book, but found it hard to get into and easy to put down. The characters didn't seem very interesting beyond what might have motivated them to be involved in the murders. It dragged on and was a relief to finish it.
May 2, 2024
It's summer time in Saxford St Peter and they are holding an open gardens competition. There are also weddings coming up, and Viv's son's fiancée, Stevie, has come to help with the planning. Her presence has tongues wagging about a 25 year old death that was closed as an accident, but most people in the village think she was murdered. The dead woman was Stevie's aunt. Local obituary writer Eve Mallow is curious about the death, and with her curiosity, begins to ask questions. While on the garden tour, Stevie has a frightening flashback picturing a body lying broken at the foot of a flight of stairs in one of the houses, but not the one she was found in. Shortly after that, Cleo, a woman that is not very well liked, is found dead in her own garden. She has been bludgeoned and drowned in her own fountain. Stevie is the main suspect due to a rumor that Cleo was responsible for her aunt's death 25 years earlier, and Stevie not forgiving her. To help Viv and in turn, Stevie, Eve gets a publication to purchase Cleo's obituary, giving her permission to nose around and ask questions. With Eve and her crew sure that the two deaths are connected, they get to work, observing, sneaking around and asking questions. With a victim who has a lot of enemies, will they determine who killed Cleo now and Honor 25 years ago?
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove is the 12th Eve Mallow Mystery, but I have only read a handful and have no problem enjoying these stories. Each book has a self-contained mystery, but there is character development along the way. I do love the setting of the small village, the pub, the tea shop and all the paths they walk on. The characters are great. Eve is smart, observant and able to get people to open up to her. Her fiancé is a retired police detective, so he helps her out in her investigations. Her neighbours and group of friends that keep her apprised of all the comings and goings in the neighbourhood are a great bunch and I love their messages and calls to each other. This is a complicated mystery due to the cold case that is connected to the murder. There are a lot of characters, but I was able to sort them all out and keep up with all their comings and goings. Of course, Eve's dachshund, Gus is adorable. He gets lots of walks while Eve is out listening for clues and information. With several suspects, many clues, including some red herrings, I was kept guessing right to the end. With a satisfying ending, I smiled as I closed this book. Another great addition to this series. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, especially those set in a small village in the UK, then I recommend you pick up this book, or better yet, the first in this series.
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove is the 12th Eve Mallow Mystery, but I have only read a handful and have no problem enjoying these stories. Each book has a self-contained mystery, but there is character development along the way. I do love the setting of the small village, the pub, the tea shop and all the paths they walk on. The characters are great. Eve is smart, observant and able to get people to open up to her. Her fiancé is a retired police detective, so he helps her out in her investigations. Her neighbours and group of friends that keep her apprised of all the comings and goings in the neighbourhood are a great bunch and I love their messages and calls to each other. This is a complicated mystery due to the cold case that is connected to the murder. There are a lot of characters, but I was able to sort them all out and keep up with all their comings and goings. Of course, Eve's dachshund, Gus is adorable. He gets lots of walks while Eve is out listening for clues and information. With several suspects, many clues, including some red herrings, I was kept guessing right to the end. With a satisfying ending, I smiled as I closed this book. Another great addition to this series. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, especially those set in a small village in the UK, then I recommend you pick up this book, or better yet, the first in this series.
April 28, 2024
Saxford St Peter is having an open gardens day! Everyone in Saxford is delighted when jeweller Cleo Marbeck suggests a prize for the village’s best garden. Twenty-five years ago, Honor a young woman fell to her death in Cleo’s house, and rumours soon resurface about Cleo’s part in the tragedy. Eve’s best friend Viv is hosting Stevie, her son’s fiancée, ahead of the wedding. On the open garden day, Stevie has a horrible flashback: the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase. But she sees it in a totally different house from the one where Honor died. Hours later Cleo’s body is found, hit with a garden ornament & drowned in her own pond. Eve is convinced the flashback has triggered the crime… and when the police turn their sights on Stevie, she’ll have to work fast to solve the case and save the wedding.
The twelfth outing for Eve & her close friends, whilst it could easily be read on its own I love how the relationships between Eve, Robin, Viv, Simon & even Moira have developed throughout the series, so I’d recommend reading in order – the relationship are what for me makes this series raise its head over the parapet. Eve is desperate to investigate & knows the perfect way is to be the obituary writer but knows Cleo isn’t famous enough for Icon to cover her death so Eve pitches to a regional publication & on winning the pitch can start to delve. There are plenty of suspects who all seem to have something to hide especially when links are found to Honor’s death. There are twists, turns, red herrings & surprises before all is revealed. A well written cosy mystery whilst not my favourite of the series it was still a very good book
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The twelfth outing for Eve & her close friends, whilst it could easily be read on its own I love how the relationships between Eve, Robin, Viv, Simon & even Moira have developed throughout the series, so I’d recommend reading in order – the relationship are what for me makes this series raise its head over the parapet. Eve is desperate to investigate & knows the perfect way is to be the obituary writer but knows Cleo isn’t famous enough for Icon to cover her death so Eve pitches to a regional publication & on winning the pitch can start to delve. There are plenty of suspects who all seem to have something to hide especially when links are found to Honor’s death. There are twists, turns, red herrings & surprises before all is revealed. A well written cosy mystery whilst not my favourite of the series it was still a very good book
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 2, 2025
Reasonable cosy crime reading.
Unfortunately the book itself is not particularly well made, quite a few pages came apart whilst reading it. The same happened with a couple of the earlier books in the series but not quite as many as this time.
Unfortunately the book itself is not particularly well made, quite a few pages came apart whilst reading it. The same happened with a couple of the earlier books in the series but not quite as many as this time.
May 18, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Yet another page turning, fantastic adventure with Eve, Gus and Robin!!! If you have never read any books in this epic series you are missing out!!!
Another addictive beauty by the very talented Clare!! One of the things I absolutely adore about Clare's books is that each and every time she creates stunning areas which come to life thanks to her fantastic evocative writing skills. The storyline itself is a fast paced cosy mystery that kept me guessing all the way through. It is filled with tension, suspense, murder, red herrings galore and everything you could ask for in an action packed addictive mystery. I had no idea who the killer was so a huge congratulations to Clare!!!! I enjoyed that it wasn't really a case of just one mystery but how several linked smoothly and everything was tied up nicely at the end, I hate loose ends!! This is yet another of Clare's books that every time I tell myself I will just read one more chapter I never actually manage to as something always happens that means I just have to read another and then another until before I know it I have devoured the whole book in a manner of hours and each book in this series is just the same!! I love the fact that Clare conjures up new locations and different events in each one of her books in this series ensuring the reader always has something new and fresh to sink their teeth into and each book manages to be just as good, if not better, than the previous ones!! I really enjoyed going on this adventure with Eve and investigating with her. Clare portrays village life perfectly and the community within them in each and every one of her books which makes them even more realistic. I absolutely love reading Eve's obituary at the end of each book and she captivates the personality of the victim absolutely perfectly. I think it is a lovely unique touch and gives a summary of what we learned about them through the story serving as a reminder.
Clear your schedules as once you've picked this up you won't be able to put it down!!
These amazing characters are all realistic, strong and an eclectic bunch to say the least. It was really fun learning all of their different characteristics, personalities and backgrounds. I absolutely love meeting them in each of these books in this fantastic and addictive series. They have become like friends to me and I find myself missing them as soon as I have closed the pages. When I "meet" them again it is like they have never been away.
Congratulations to Clare Chase on yet another absolutely successful and addictive page turning murder mystery. This is why when I want an addictive cosy mystery which I can read anywhere I hunt your books down and why you are in my top 5 cozy mystery author list!. Here's to you're next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely compelling, addictive and page turning gothic cosy mystery that is perfect to read on front of the fire.
#MysteryOnMeadowstreetGrove #EveMallow #ClareChase #Bookouture #BookoutureAnonymous
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Yet another page turning, fantastic adventure with Eve, Gus and Robin!!! If you have never read any books in this epic series you are missing out!!!
Another addictive beauty by the very talented Clare!! One of the things I absolutely adore about Clare's books is that each and every time she creates stunning areas which come to life thanks to her fantastic evocative writing skills. The storyline itself is a fast paced cosy mystery that kept me guessing all the way through. It is filled with tension, suspense, murder, red herrings galore and everything you could ask for in an action packed addictive mystery. I had no idea who the killer was so a huge congratulations to Clare!!!! I enjoyed that it wasn't really a case of just one mystery but how several linked smoothly and everything was tied up nicely at the end, I hate loose ends!! This is yet another of Clare's books that every time I tell myself I will just read one more chapter I never actually manage to as something always happens that means I just have to read another and then another until before I know it I have devoured the whole book in a manner of hours and each book in this series is just the same!! I love the fact that Clare conjures up new locations and different events in each one of her books in this series ensuring the reader always has something new and fresh to sink their teeth into and each book manages to be just as good, if not better, than the previous ones!! I really enjoyed going on this adventure with Eve and investigating with her. Clare portrays village life perfectly and the community within them in each and every one of her books which makes them even more realistic. I absolutely love reading Eve's obituary at the end of each book and she captivates the personality of the victim absolutely perfectly. I think it is a lovely unique touch and gives a summary of what we learned about them through the story serving as a reminder.
Clear your schedules as once you've picked this up you won't be able to put it down!!
These amazing characters are all realistic, strong and an eclectic bunch to say the least. It was really fun learning all of their different characteristics, personalities and backgrounds. I absolutely love meeting them in each of these books in this fantastic and addictive series. They have become like friends to me and I find myself missing them as soon as I have closed the pages. When I "meet" them again it is like they have never been away.
Congratulations to Clare Chase on yet another absolutely successful and addictive page turning murder mystery. This is why when I want an addictive cosy mystery which I can read anywhere I hunt your books down and why you are in my top 5 cozy mystery author list!. Here's to you're next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely compelling, addictive and page turning gothic cosy mystery that is perfect to read on front of the fire.
#MysteryOnMeadowstreetGrove #EveMallow #ClareChase #Bookouture #BookoutureAnonymous
@ClareChase @Bookouture @BookoutureAnonymous
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April 29, 2024
The first death was 25 years ago and was a suspicious death where a small child found the body and was haunted by it. The new corpse is that of an unpleasant businesswoman and brings back the flashbacks and sense of horror to the young woman now grown and planning her wedding. Eve and Robin feel a need to assist the police investigation, but quietly and in their own way. The tale is twisty and there is danger, a hidden tunnel, and far too many infidelities clouding the way. Another winner in the Eve Mallow series!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you!
May 21, 2024
Very disappointed in this book!! I've read the previous 11 books and I enjoyed them. This book was so convoluted and in such disarray, I am finished with this series! I feel the author has worn out this series which made this 12th book so terrible!
Very disappointed with this book! I've read the previous 11 books and enjoyed them. This book was so convoluted and in such disarray, I am now finished with this series!!
Very disappointed with this book! I've read the previous 11 books and enjoyed them. This book was so convoluted and in such disarray, I am now finished with this series!!
March 15, 2024
Summer is painting Saxford St Peter in its prettiest colours. There are weddings to plan and, for the first time, an open gardens competition to enter. Local obituary writer Eve Mallow is secretly delighted that fiance, Robin, is on the judging panel, and she can't enter! That is probably a good thing because her best friend, Viv, is arranging her son Jonah's wedding, and her future daughter-in-law, Stevie, is visiting so Eve is needed to help prevent panic prevailing!
When Stevie has a frightening flashback picturing a body lying broken at the foot of a flight of stairs, everyone is concerned for her. Concern turns to suspicion however, when just a short time later, a body is found, and once again, a killer is sought in the small picturesque village. Eve, determined to prevent any threat to the forthcoming marriage, begins to investigate immediately but, with an unpopular victim, and possible links to a decades old accident, nothing proves simple, instead, for some residents, it is downright dangerous!
Book twelve in this wonderful series is like a warm hug with old friends with a bit of added jeopardy! There are a lot of people in this story, and it took a few chapters to get them all in their right places, but once sorted, it flowed along brilliantly. With a new series by this author released later in the year, I wonder if Eve's story might be winding down. If so, this is an excellent book to pave the way.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is easy to recommend, as is the whole series, which always provides a brilliant reading experience.
When Stevie has a frightening flashback picturing a body lying broken at the foot of a flight of stairs, everyone is concerned for her. Concern turns to suspicion however, when just a short time later, a body is found, and once again, a killer is sought in the small picturesque village. Eve, determined to prevent any threat to the forthcoming marriage, begins to investigate immediately but, with an unpopular victim, and possible links to a decades old accident, nothing proves simple, instead, for some residents, it is downright dangerous!
Book twelve in this wonderful series is like a warm hug with old friends with a bit of added jeopardy! There are a lot of people in this story, and it took a few chapters to get them all in their right places, but once sorted, it flowed along brilliantly. With a new series by this author released later in the year, I wonder if Eve's story might be winding down. If so, this is an excellent book to pave the way.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is easy to recommend, as is the whole series, which always provides a brilliant reading experience.
May 10, 2024
This is the 12th book in this cosy mystery series. All the usual characters appear and are as involved as ever. I did think it would've been good to have a few more characters and perhaps this is why this one didn't grab me as much as the other's. It just lacked something for me this time. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2024
I gave up half. Its convoluted beyond necessary and with no suspence. Just boring. Not on level with the books before in the series.
May 5, 2024
Yay!
Why yay? Because finally Eve manages to solve a mystery without getting kidnapped or otherwise caught by the murderer. Mind you someone else was caught so not too much difference. But at least that person was just going about their daily life, and hadn't put themselves knowingly in danger. Lots of suspects in this story and few things were apparent but I got there in the end; as did Eve. In fact I think I only just beat her to it.
Why yay? Because finally Eve manages to solve a mystery without getting kidnapped or otherwise caught by the murderer. Mind you someone else was caught so not too much difference. But at least that person was just going about their daily life, and hadn't put themselves knowingly in danger. Lots of suspects in this story and few things were apparent but I got there in the end; as did Eve. In fact I think I only just beat her to it.
May 9, 2024
"Mystery On Meadowsweet Grove" is book #12 in the "Eve Mallow Mystery" series by Clare Chase.
"Saxford St Peter is having an open gardens day! But one of the villagers has murder, not marigolds, in mind… And now Eve Mallow needs to unearth a killer.
Everyone in Saxford is delighted when jeweller Cleo Marbeck suggests a prize for the village’s best garden. Flowers are planted, grass is cut, and the competition is on. But the event only digs up dirt… Twenty-five years ago, a young woman fell to her death in Cleo’s house, and rumours soon resurface about Cleo’s part in the tragedy.
Eve’s best friend Viv is hosting Stevie, her son’s fiancée, ahead of the wedding. On the open garden day, Stevie has a horrible flashback: the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase. But she sees it in a totally different house from the one where Honor died…
Hours later Cleo’s body is found, drowned in her own pond. Almost everyone in Saxford has been in and out of her garden, sowing suspicion everywhere. But Eve is convinced the flashback has triggered the crime… and when the police turn their sights on Stevie, she’ll have to work fast to solve the case and save the wedding.
So who wanted Cleo in the ground? The son of the woman who died, out for revenge? The employee passed over for promotion? Her long-term lover, who she refused to marry? And why do so many suspects live on Meadowsweet Grove?
When someone else takes a tumble downstairs, Eve knows she’s close to grubbing up the truth. But can she catch the killer or is she heading for a fatal fall?"
My thoughts:
This series always keeps me guessing as to who is behind the murder(s)! Ms. Chase writes in such a fashion as to keep the reader engaged and theorizing right along with Eve.
As an obituary writer, Eve is in a perfect position to ask some probing questions of those who knew the victim - both personally and professionally. She keeps things balanced by interviewing those who also may have had issues with the victim. Those responses, along with info gathered through her own close circle of friends in the village help her piece together what really happened.
With this particular book, there seems to be more of a group effort in sourcing info. Eve, her fiancé Robin and a few friends meet on a regular basis to share info and have a group chat on an app to keep up on the latest inbetween meetings. Local DI Palmer certainly doesn't approve of what he sees as meddling in police matters but luckily, Robin's cousin is married to a more receptive officer who is more than willing to work with them and share what he can - as long as Palmer doesn't learn the truth!
I honestly wasn't sure who was responsible for the murder(s) but viable suspects did seem limited to a small group. It kept me turning the pages to find out the truth!
"Saxford St Peter is having an open gardens day! But one of the villagers has murder, not marigolds, in mind… And now Eve Mallow needs to unearth a killer.
Everyone in Saxford is delighted when jeweller Cleo Marbeck suggests a prize for the village’s best garden. Flowers are planted, grass is cut, and the competition is on. But the event only digs up dirt… Twenty-five years ago, a young woman fell to her death in Cleo’s house, and rumours soon resurface about Cleo’s part in the tragedy.
Eve’s best friend Viv is hosting Stevie, her son’s fiancée, ahead of the wedding. On the open garden day, Stevie has a horrible flashback: the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase. But she sees it in a totally different house from the one where Honor died…
Hours later Cleo’s body is found, drowned in her own pond. Almost everyone in Saxford has been in and out of her garden, sowing suspicion everywhere. But Eve is convinced the flashback has triggered the crime… and when the police turn their sights on Stevie, she’ll have to work fast to solve the case and save the wedding.
So who wanted Cleo in the ground? The son of the woman who died, out for revenge? The employee passed over for promotion? Her long-term lover, who she refused to marry? And why do so many suspects live on Meadowsweet Grove?
When someone else takes a tumble downstairs, Eve knows she’s close to grubbing up the truth. But can she catch the killer or is she heading for a fatal fall?"
My thoughts:
This series always keeps me guessing as to who is behind the murder(s)! Ms. Chase writes in such a fashion as to keep the reader engaged and theorizing right along with Eve.
As an obituary writer, Eve is in a perfect position to ask some probing questions of those who knew the victim - both personally and professionally. She keeps things balanced by interviewing those who also may have had issues with the victim. Those responses, along with info gathered through her own close circle of friends in the village help her piece together what really happened.
With this particular book, there seems to be more of a group effort in sourcing info. Eve, her fiancé Robin and a few friends meet on a regular basis to share info and have a group chat on an app to keep up on the latest inbetween meetings. Local DI Palmer certainly doesn't approve of what he sees as meddling in police matters but luckily, Robin's cousin is married to a more receptive officer who is more than willing to work with them and share what he can - as long as Palmer doesn't learn the truth!
I honestly wasn't sure who was responsible for the murder(s) but viable suspects did seem limited to a small group. It kept me turning the pages to find out the truth!
May 8, 2024
I haven’t read all of Clare Chase’s Eve Mallow series (too many books, not enough hours in the day), but I’ve read enough of them to know that so far, I think this is my favorite!
Everyone in Saxford-St.-Peter is looking forward to open gardens day. Folks are putting on their landscaping best in hopes of winning a prize. Robin will be judging, so Eve can’t participate – she just plans to enjoy the event.
Eve is also looking forward to the upcoming wedding of her best friend Viv’s son Jonah and his fiancée Stevie. Stevie has come to town in advance of the wedding, and her presence in the village renews the whispers that wealthy local businesswoman Cleo Marbeck was somehow involved in Stevie’s aunt Honor’s untimely demise. While on the tour, Stevie has a horrific flashback in which she remembers seeing Honor’s body, but not much else. And when Cleo is found murdered in her meticulously manicured garden at The Briars, it doesn’t take much to bump Stevie up to the top of the suspect list. Eve gets the go-ahead to write Cleo’s obituary for a local publication, and she knows she’ll have to do a lot of digging to solve the case and save the wedding day.
We see a cast of familiar characters here – Eve, Robin, Viv, the loathsome (and possibly criminally incompetent) DI Palmer. We also meet plenty of new characters, each with a reason they might have wanted Cleo dead. There’s Cleo, who seems to be respected for her business acumen but not terribly well liked; Max, who had an affair with Cleo; his estranged son Perry, back in town to write a book on Marbeck’s; Richie, Honor’s son who works for Cleo and who got a fat promotion over Abby, taking the position she moved back from Paris to take on Cleo’s word that it was hers; and Lara, whose brother Freddy’s death seems to have some connection to Cleo.
Cleo owns all the houses on Meadowsweet Grove but one, and she seems to have something to hold over each of her tenants. Could that have led one of them to strike her down in a fit of rage? What about Lara, who’s the only person on the block (so to speak) whose house Cleo doesn’t own? Why was Cleo trying so hard to get her to sell? Chase gives us lots of trails to wander down and rabbits to run after. There are hidden tunnels, jewelry theft, repressed memories, wedding planning, and a host of other details that add up to make this an engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable read.
The stories do run to a formula, to a certain extent, but that’s okay by me. Familiar characters, a lovely small-town setting, locations I’d like to visit, and enough excitement to keep the pages turning make for a lovely escape from the everyday. I’m here for all of the Eve Mallow books!
Everyone in Saxford-St.-Peter is looking forward to open gardens day. Folks are putting on their landscaping best in hopes of winning a prize. Robin will be judging, so Eve can’t participate – she just plans to enjoy the event.
Eve is also looking forward to the upcoming wedding of her best friend Viv’s son Jonah and his fiancée Stevie. Stevie has come to town in advance of the wedding, and her presence in the village renews the whispers that wealthy local businesswoman Cleo Marbeck was somehow involved in Stevie’s aunt Honor’s untimely demise. While on the tour, Stevie has a horrific flashback in which she remembers seeing Honor’s body, but not much else. And when Cleo is found murdered in her meticulously manicured garden at The Briars, it doesn’t take much to bump Stevie up to the top of the suspect list. Eve gets the go-ahead to write Cleo’s obituary for a local publication, and she knows she’ll have to do a lot of digging to solve the case and save the wedding day.
We see a cast of familiar characters here – Eve, Robin, Viv, the loathsome (and possibly criminally incompetent) DI Palmer. We also meet plenty of new characters, each with a reason they might have wanted Cleo dead. There’s Cleo, who seems to be respected for her business acumen but not terribly well liked; Max, who had an affair with Cleo; his estranged son Perry, back in town to write a book on Marbeck’s; Richie, Honor’s son who works for Cleo and who got a fat promotion over Abby, taking the position she moved back from Paris to take on Cleo’s word that it was hers; and Lara, whose brother Freddy’s death seems to have some connection to Cleo.
Cleo owns all the houses on Meadowsweet Grove but one, and she seems to have something to hold over each of her tenants. Could that have led one of them to strike her down in a fit of rage? What about Lara, who’s the only person on the block (so to speak) whose house Cleo doesn’t own? Why was Cleo trying so hard to get her to sell? Chase gives us lots of trails to wander down and rabbits to run after. There are hidden tunnels, jewelry theft, repressed memories, wedding planning, and a host of other details that add up to make this an engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable read.
The stories do run to a formula, to a certain extent, but that’s okay by me. Familiar characters, a lovely small-town setting, locations I’d like to visit, and enough excitement to keep the pages turning make for a lovely escape from the everyday. I’m here for all of the Eve Mallow books!
April 12, 2024
Well... here we are... at number 12 in this series and absolutely no sign of getting tired. Although the main story is self contained, it's always best to read a series from the start, and in order, and I do recommend you do that with this one too. Especially with its rich and extremely wonderful characters and their pretty complicated backstories.
We start this book with an "open gardens day" in Saxford St Peter. It all begins as you would expect but it's not long before the shenanigans begin and a body is found. It's that of successful jeweller, Cleo Marbeck. And, also as you would also expect, there are quite a few with motives. Rewind some 25 years, and Cleo's house was the scene of another tragedy, a young woman falling to her death. Deemed an accident at the time. But this story is awakened when Stevie, Viv's son's fiancée has a flashback that could very well put a new spin on what happened. This puts her firmly in the frame for Cleo's murder, well, according to the incompetent police DI Palmer. So... once again, Eve puts on her Obituary Writer hat, which also doubles as a Detective Hat, and off she goes to "interview/interrogate" the villagers.
I do really love this series. I love the characters, the setting, the cakes in the tea-shop, the gossip in the village store, and, of course Gus, Eve's wee dachshund. As well as being a cutie, his walks are also quite useful to get her to places where she can "overhear" people without causing too much suspicion. Yes, OK, these books are a wee bit on the formulaic side, but, for me, that just adds to the comfortable feeling of reading a series book. You know what you are getting, apart from the case in question, there are no real shocks. It all ticks along very nicely indeed. And, in this case, said mystery is a doozy. It had me going all round the houses, chasing my tail, as I tried to second guess what in heck was going on. Packed full of the usual secrets, lies and dysfunctional behaviour, we also had the added bonus of a cold case to be reopened... It really did pack a lot in!
And, with no superfluous waffle or padding, it got on with itself very well indeed. Pacing matching the narrative all the way through, mostly fast but with the occasional slower part for reader respite! All culminating in an ending which I never saw coming but which was wholly satisfying.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is now a well established and one of my favourite series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
We start this book with an "open gardens day" in Saxford St Peter. It all begins as you would expect but it's not long before the shenanigans begin and a body is found. It's that of successful jeweller, Cleo Marbeck. And, also as you would also expect, there are quite a few with motives. Rewind some 25 years, and Cleo's house was the scene of another tragedy, a young woman falling to her death. Deemed an accident at the time. But this story is awakened when Stevie, Viv's son's fiancée has a flashback that could very well put a new spin on what happened. This puts her firmly in the frame for Cleo's murder, well, according to the incompetent police DI Palmer. So... once again, Eve puts on her Obituary Writer hat, which also doubles as a Detective Hat, and off she goes to "interview/interrogate" the villagers.
I do really love this series. I love the characters, the setting, the cakes in the tea-shop, the gossip in the village store, and, of course Gus, Eve's wee dachshund. As well as being a cutie, his walks are also quite useful to get her to places where she can "overhear" people without causing too much suspicion. Yes, OK, these books are a wee bit on the formulaic side, but, for me, that just adds to the comfortable feeling of reading a series book. You know what you are getting, apart from the case in question, there are no real shocks. It all ticks along very nicely indeed. And, in this case, said mystery is a doozy. It had me going all round the houses, chasing my tail, as I tried to second guess what in heck was going on. Packed full of the usual secrets, lies and dysfunctional behaviour, we also had the added bonus of a cold case to be reopened... It really did pack a lot in!
And, with no superfluous waffle or padding, it got on with itself very well indeed. Pacing matching the narrative all the way through, mostly fast but with the occasional slower part for reader respite! All culminating in an ending which I never saw coming but which was wholly satisfying.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is now a well established and one of my favourite series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
May 28, 2024
A competition for the best kept garden is in progress when the body of local jeweller Cleo Marbeck is found in her garden drowned in her own pond. This is not the first death associated with Cleo’s house. A young woman fell down the stairs twenty-five years previously.
On the same day as Cleo’s murder, Stevie has a flashback – the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase but in another house in the village altogether.
The police appear to believe Stevie killed Cleo. Eve Marlow must rally her trusted friends in an attempt to find the killer before she is arrested. Cleo had upset a great many people and there are plenty of suspects with a credible motive to want Cleo dead nearly all of whom appear to live on Meadowsweet Grove.
This is the twelfth book in prolific author Clare Chase’s Eve Marlow mysteries and, as in most cosy crime series, it can be read as a standalone novel. I confess this is the first of Chase’s books that I have read, and it took several chapters for me to sort out the large cast of characters (there are seven in the first chapter alone) many of whom feature regularly in the series and are therefore familiar to Chase’s fans. That said, the characters are all well drawn, and I quickly found myself rooting for the good guys.
Chase is a master of misdirection, and the twists and turns of the plot kept me on my toes turning the pages well into the night as the story built up to a satisfying ending.
The village setting is beautifully described, and I had no difficulty in picturing the layout of the village and the surrounding area.
A thoroughly enjoyable read – I already have book one in the series downloaded onto my Kindle – and I recommend Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove to anyone who loves a fast-paced, cosy mystery that will keep you guessing till the end.
------
Reviewer: Judith Cranswick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
On the same day as Cleo’s murder, Stevie has a flashback – the memory of a woman lying at the bottom of a staircase but in another house in the village altogether.
The police appear to believe Stevie killed Cleo. Eve Marlow must rally her trusted friends in an attempt to find the killer before she is arrested. Cleo had upset a great many people and there are plenty of suspects with a credible motive to want Cleo dead nearly all of whom appear to live on Meadowsweet Grove.
This is the twelfth book in prolific author Clare Chase’s Eve Marlow mysteries and, as in most cosy crime series, it can be read as a standalone novel. I confess this is the first of Chase’s books that I have read, and it took several chapters for me to sort out the large cast of characters (there are seven in the first chapter alone) many of whom feature regularly in the series and are therefore familiar to Chase’s fans. That said, the characters are all well drawn, and I quickly found myself rooting for the good guys.
Chase is a master of misdirection, and the twists and turns of the plot kept me on my toes turning the pages well into the night as the story built up to a satisfying ending.
The village setting is beautifully described, and I had no difficulty in picturing the layout of the village and the surrounding area.
A thoroughly enjoyable read – I already have book one in the series downloaded onto my Kindle – and I recommend Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove to anyone who loves a fast-paced, cosy mystery that will keep you guessing till the end.
------
Reviewer: Judith Cranswick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
May 3, 2024
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove by Clare Chase is an Eve Mallow mystery and a good one. So many mysteries, at least lately, seem to have deep roots in the past. This was no exception. It was very convoluted with curious relationships and behavior, some of it extraneous to the murder at hand. Plus, the involvement of several generations. Eve and the gang have taken to hiding in a bird watching blind to follow the behaviors of folks they suspect. As always, there are red herrings and mistaken assumptions as well has people trying to protect ones they suspect. Eve is very clever in her questioning of possible suspects under the guise of writing an obituary on the deceased. Good thing the deceaseds have a bit of fame or she’d never be able to sell any of them. It’s handy to have Robin both in town and out of hiding, although he is sometimes busy with his new career as a gardener. What a good book.
Eve has gotten over her divorce, although she cannot totally regret the marriage as it gave her her twins. She has found peace in this small costal town and enjoys her life and her friends. She is a comfortable character and easy to read. I felt like this book could have done with a little editing, but maybe I’m just getting old! Thankfully she has Greg at the police department to feed her information as it is readily agreed by all that DI Palmer is a fool so they had to pick up the slack.
Good story. Terrific characters. Well worth one’s time! Thanks Clare Chase!
I was invited to read Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #ClareChase #MysteryOnMeadowsweetGrove
Eve has gotten over her divorce, although she cannot totally regret the marriage as it gave her her twins. She has found peace in this small costal town and enjoys her life and her friends. She is a comfortable character and easy to read. I felt like this book could have done with a little editing, but maybe I’m just getting old! Thankfully she has Greg at the police department to feed her information as it is readily agreed by all that DI Palmer is a fool so they had to pick up the slack.
Good story. Terrific characters. Well worth one’s time! Thanks Clare Chase!
I was invited to read Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #ClareChase #MysteryOnMeadowsweetGrove
May 6, 2024
A village competition to identify the best garden there
Has all the villagers taking great care
They also enjoy the opportunity to look at each others
But no one dreamt what some would discover!
Twenty five years ago, a young woman tragically died,
Stevie was a child then, but just what had she spied?
She has a flashback of the body at the foot of the stair
But not at the house where she was found lying there.
Later, the woman suspected by locals of being involved then
Is found in her garden pond, has the perpetrator struck again?
Is Stevie's flashback and the death linked in some way?
The initial death was ruled an accident - though that's not what locals say!
Stevie has returned to the village after so many years
To marry her beloved and put aside any rumours or fears.
But she's also the chief suspect, or so the lead policeman seems to say
Can Eve help prove he's wrong and help Stevie celebrate her wedding day?
All the folks living on Meadowsweet Grove now
Seem linked to the past death somehow.
Can Eve and her friends help the police to uncover
If the death back then and today have any links to discover?
A fascinating page turner read with a great community, too,
That kept me guessing all the way through.
I really enjoy escaping into this brilliant read
And hope it'll prove a book that you also need.
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
Has all the villagers taking great care
They also enjoy the opportunity to look at each others
But no one dreamt what some would discover!
Twenty five years ago, a young woman tragically died,
Stevie was a child then, but just what had she spied?
She has a flashback of the body at the foot of the stair
But not at the house where she was found lying there.
Later, the woman suspected by locals of being involved then
Is found in her garden pond, has the perpetrator struck again?
Is Stevie's flashback and the death linked in some way?
The initial death was ruled an accident - though that's not what locals say!
Stevie has returned to the village after so many years
To marry her beloved and put aside any rumours or fears.
But she's also the chief suspect, or so the lead policeman seems to say
Can Eve help prove he's wrong and help Stevie celebrate her wedding day?
All the folks living on Meadowsweet Grove now
Seem linked to the past death somehow.
Can Eve and her friends help the police to uncover
If the death back then and today have any links to discover?
A fascinating page turner read with a great community, too,
That kept me guessing all the way through.
I really enjoy escaping into this brilliant read
And hope it'll prove a book that you also need.
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
May 13, 2024
Cleo Marbeck, local businesswoman, is found dead in a fountain on the first day of Saxford St. Peter’s garden tour. This shocking event naturally ends the inaugural garden event and begins the involvement of local sleuth and obituary writer Eve Mallow. As usual, Eve wraps her investigation in her planned obituary for a local paper. While Cleo’s success impressed most villagers, Eve discovers several suspects who might have wanted her dead. There’s Abby Porter, who Cleo promised an important position in London, then changed her mind and Stevie, the fiancée of Viv’s son. Stevie’s beloved aunt had died from an accidental fall twenty five years earlier and Stevie believes Cleo was involved. This decades old case dominates the investigation and the plans for the wedding. Soon Eve is searching for a killer from the past before she becomes the next victim.
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove, the twelfth in the excellent Eve Marrow series is different from its predecessors. This mystery is Eve’s story. Although Robin and Viv appear, they do not play major parts. Neither does the bustling village of Sanford St. Peter. Eve and her dachshund are on their own here. Eve bounces questions off her friends but this is her investigation. Of course, this is a 5 star read for Eve’s fans, new to the series or regular readers. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Claire Chase for this ARC.
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove, the twelfth in the excellent Eve Marrow series is different from its predecessors. This mystery is Eve’s story. Although Robin and Viv appear, they do not play major parts. Neither does the bustling village of Sanford St. Peter. Eve and her dachshund are on their own here. Eve bounces questions off her friends but this is her investigation. Of course, this is a 5 star read for Eve’s fans, new to the series or regular readers. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Claire Chase for this ARC.
July 26, 2025
A competition for the village's best garden is interrupted by the discovery of a dead body. Does Cleo's death have a connection to another death 25 years ago?
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove is the 12th book to feature obituary writer and amateur sleuth Eve Mallow.
Secrets, lies, hidden tunnels, affairs, personal and professional animosity, a suspicious death in the past: this book has it all! Eve is inundated with suspects and motives as she begins to investigate the life and death of jeweller Cleo Marbeck. She is ably supported as always by her beau Robin and dachshund Gus as well as other villagers who have joined her friendship group over the series of books.
There are plenty of plot threads and secrets to reveal so the mystery is sustained until the end of the book. The writing style is easy to read and the village life felt authentic. The deaths are not described in graphic detail, in keeping with the cosy crime genre. I liked the emphasis on the characters and their relationships for underpinning the plot and resolution of the case.
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery in the English countryside.
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove is the 12th book to feature obituary writer and amateur sleuth Eve Mallow.
Secrets, lies, hidden tunnels, affairs, personal and professional animosity, a suspicious death in the past: this book has it all! Eve is inundated with suspects and motives as she begins to investigate the life and death of jeweller Cleo Marbeck. She is ably supported as always by her beau Robin and dachshund Gus as well as other villagers who have joined her friendship group over the series of books.
There are plenty of plot threads and secrets to reveal so the mystery is sustained until the end of the book. The writing style is easy to read and the village life felt authentic. The deaths are not described in graphic detail, in keeping with the cosy crime genre. I liked the emphasis on the characters and their relationships for underpinning the plot and resolution of the case.
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery in the English countryside.
March 14, 2024
The latest entry in the Eve Mallow series sees Eve wrapped up in the death of a local businesswoman with plenty of critics. Eve begins to investigate with her friends as part of writing the dead woman’s obituary, and more deaths and surprises ensue. I enjoy this series, and reading the books feels a bit like catching up with old friends. I did notice with this one, though, that it felt a little like it was following a formula. While the regular characters are well-drawn, it was harder to develop as much of a connection with the victims and suspects. The lack of connection means it’s harder to be emotionally invested in the outcome or to believe the risks that Eve takes in trying to solve the case. Still. enjoyable overall and a good series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. I chose to provide this review and all opinions are solely mine.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. I chose to provide this review and all opinions are solely mine.
April 4, 2024
Twelfth murder mystery for Eve to solve, with a new cast of suspects doing their best to hide potentially incriminating secrets.
This time, the victim is a ruthless buisnesswoman that part of the village even believe guilty of pushing a friend down the stairs in what passed as an accident years ago. So Eve finds herself investigating both the recent murder and the old case that everyone's talking about.
As usual, I greatly enjoyed following her as she interviewed people for the victim's obituary, gathering clues along the way.
And once again I would advice new readers to start with book 1, but think that those who don't mind partial spoilers could enjoy this one even without having met Eve and her friends/neighbours before.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This time, the victim is a ruthless buisnesswoman that part of the village even believe guilty of pushing a friend down the stairs in what passed as an accident years ago. So Eve finds herself investigating both the recent murder and the old case that everyone's talking about.
As usual, I greatly enjoyed following her as she interviewed people for the victim's obituary, gathering clues along the way.
And once again I would advice new readers to start with book 1, but think that those who don't mind partial spoilers could enjoy this one even without having met Eve and her friends/neighbours before.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2024
I'm back for the twelfth outing of amateur detective and obituary writer, Eve Mallow. This time Eve is looking into the death of Cleo Marbeck, who was accused of killing a young woman by the name of Honor twenty-five years ago, only to end up dead herself during an open garden event.
It's so nice to be back with Eve and her friends. These characters really make this series, with their warmth and camaraderie, plus they're always there to encourage Eve with her amateur sleuthing and lend a hand on the way.
I especially enjoyed the cold case aspect to this story, which I found added an extra bit of intrigue and made the killer a bit more difficult to guess.
A must if you're looking for a light-hearted mystery with a puzzling mystery and a likeable sleuth, then I'd highly recommend it.
It's so nice to be back with Eve and her friends. These characters really make this series, with their warmth and camaraderie, plus they're always there to encourage Eve with her amateur sleuthing and lend a hand on the way.
I especially enjoyed the cold case aspect to this story, which I found added an extra bit of intrigue and made the killer a bit more difficult to guess.
A must if you're looking for a light-hearted mystery with a puzzling mystery and a likeable sleuth, then I'd highly recommend it.
May 8, 2024
There’s always something new and exciting, like a character, a happy event, or something in Eve’s life.
This is one of my favorite aspects, as each book is better than the previous and very entertaining.
The start of this book add something my bucket list, as I love gardening and view an open garden day in an English village as paradise on Earth.
It would be better if no-one is murdered but, as this is a mystery, it’s part of the game and finding the culprit is what you expect.
Eve will investigate, write an obituary, and the balance of the universe will be reestablished at the end of the story.
Another whodunit with plenty of secrets, twists, red herrings, and a very satisfying solution.. Another novel by Ms Chase that kept me reading till late in the night.
Read it and have fun.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
This is one of my favorite aspects, as each book is better than the previous and very entertaining.
The start of this book add something my bucket list, as I love gardening and view an open garden day in an English village as paradise on Earth.
It would be better if no-one is murdered but, as this is a mystery, it’s part of the game and finding the culprit is what you expect.
Eve will investigate, write an obituary, and the balance of the universe will be reestablished at the end of the story.
Another whodunit with plenty of secrets, twists, red herrings, and a very satisfying solution.. Another novel by Ms Chase that kept me reading till late in the night.
Read it and have fun.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
June 7, 2024
Cleo Marbeck owns a very successful antique jewelry business. She is also a great organizer, well known (but not always well liked) in the Saxford St. Peter community where she lives. A competition for the best garden in their town was her idea. On the day of the judging Cleo's body is discovered lying in her own yard. There is no shortage of suspects in this installment of Eve Mallow mysteries. Things got pretty confusing as Eve, Viv, Robin and friends tried to figure out who did it and why. This one got personal because Viv's soon to become daughter-in-law was immediately suspected of committing the murder by local Detective Palmer.
I like the way the community works together to gain evidence and delve into past histories of the many suspects. It's nice that Robin no longer has to hide his identity too. As alway, I look forward to the next book in this great series.
I like the way the community works together to gain evidence and delve into past histories of the many suspects. It's nice that Robin no longer has to hide his identity too. As alway, I look forward to the next book in this great series.
March 15, 2024
Mystery on Meadowsweet Grove (An Eve Mallow Mystery Book 12)
This is a charming English cozy with well drawn out characters and a very twisty plot. While Eve is touring the gardens during Open Gardens Day with her good friend Viv and Viv's soon to be daughter-in-law Stevie, Stevie has a flashback of her aunt's murder that happened twenty-five years ago. A local business woman is murdered shortly after the flashback and Stevie becomes the main suspect. Eve is sure these murders are somehow connected and questions all the suspects while gathering information for the victims obituary. The victim was not well liked so there are multiple suspects. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in this engaging series.
This is a charming English cozy with well drawn out characters and a very twisty plot. While Eve is touring the gardens during Open Gardens Day with her good friend Viv and Viv's soon to be daughter-in-law Stevie, Stevie has a flashback of her aunt's murder that happened twenty-five years ago. A local business woman is murdered shortly after the flashback and Stevie becomes the main suspect. Eve is sure these murders are somehow connected and questions all the suspects while gathering information for the victims obituary. The victim was not well liked so there are multiple suspects. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in this engaging series.
May 4, 2024
I enjoyed the latest adventure with Eve, Robin and their band of like-minded sleuths. Gus, the dog, finds he is taking lots of walks as Eve investigates a murder during the open gardens event that has its roots in the past. I like Eve's investigative methods, utilising her role as an obituary writer to ask pertinent questions and her network of village contacts. The mystery is full of drama and poignancy, and whilst there is only a small group of suspects, they all have motives and secrets they want to keep hidden. It's an escapist and immersive read with complex characters and a twisty mystery. The Suffolk setting is well-described, and the story uses sensory imagery to enliven the characters, events and locations.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
March 18, 2024
I've read quite a few in this series and enjoyed them - the main characters are beautifully drawn (including Gus, Eve's dachshund) and Saxford really feels like a place you'd like to live.
In this one, the village is having an open garden day - but then jeweller Cleo Marbeck is found dead in her pond. What's the connection between her death and that of Honor, 25 years before? And why does Stevie, Honor's daughter, have a flashback to her mother's body at the foot of the stairs in a different house to the one where she was found?
There are lots of suspects and lots of red herrings - along with some excellent misdirection. Very enjoyable read and I'd recommend it highly.
In this one, the village is having an open garden day - but then jeweller Cleo Marbeck is found dead in her pond. What's the connection between her death and that of Honor, 25 years before? And why does Stevie, Honor's daughter, have a flashback to her mother's body at the foot of the stairs in a different house to the one where she was found?
There are lots of suspects and lots of red herrings - along with some excellent misdirection. Very enjoyable read and I'd recommend it highly.
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