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Edie York Mystery #3
Murder on Stage
England, 1941. Trainee reporter Edie York is doing her best to keep calm and carry on despite London’s Blitz dominating the news. But, at the theatre one night, she is thrust into a shocking mystery when the lead actor drops dead on stage…
The Victory Gang Parade theatre group are in town, entertaining the troops and the determinedly cheerful people of Manchester with their spectacular all-singing all-dancing show. But We’ll Meet Again becomes impossible for two cast members, when Leonard Lessiter dies suddenly mid-song, and leading lady Ginny Sutton goes missing the very same night.
Reluctantly encouraged by DCI Louis Brennan – up to his ears catching looters and ration cheats – to investigate, Edie interviews the cast and quickly uncovers jealousies, lies and back-stabbings galore. From former lovers to bitter rejects, old hands to up-and-coming ingénues, any one of them could be guilty. And the leading lady Ginny is still missing.
Then Edie gets caught in a bombing raid and finds her chief suspect stabbed with a stage dagger. As the body count climbs, will Edie and Louis find Ginny alive? Can they uncover the most theatrical killer they’ve ever encountered? Or will it be the final curtain call for the detecting duo…?
A compelling and addictive historical cozy mystery perfect for fans of Richard Osman and Agatha Christie. Totally unputdownable and utterly charming, this is the perfect book to snuggle up and race through an evening with.
The Victory Gang Parade theatre group are in town, entertaining the troops and the determinedly cheerful people of Manchester with their spectacular all-singing all-dancing show. But We’ll Meet Again becomes impossible for two cast members, when Leonard Lessiter dies suddenly mid-song, and leading lady Ginny Sutton goes missing the very same night.
Reluctantly encouraged by DCI Louis Brennan – up to his ears catching looters and ration cheats – to investigate, Edie interviews the cast and quickly uncovers jealousies, lies and back-stabbings galore. From former lovers to bitter rejects, old hands to up-and-coming ingénues, any one of them could be guilty. And the leading lady Ginny is still missing.
Then Edie gets caught in a bombing raid and finds her chief suspect stabbed with a stage dagger. As the body count climbs, will Edie and Louis find Ginny alive? Can they uncover the most theatrical killer they’ve ever encountered? Or will it be the final curtain call for the detecting duo…?
A compelling and addictive historical cozy mystery perfect for fans of Richard Osman and Agatha Christie. Totally unputdownable and utterly charming, this is the perfect book to snuggle up and race through an evening with.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2024
43 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
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June 13, 2024
My first introduction to the Edie York Mystery series and I will have to go back now and read books one and two.
Murder on Stage is set in London in 1941 during the Blitz and the descriptions of what the residents suffered are very realistic. Edie writes obituaries for a newspaper but her dream is to be a news reporter. She is good friends with a detective and when an actor dies on stage she finds herself in a position where she is first on the scene and is able to write the article.
The body count in this one is high and the mystery is interesting, but when the murderer is exposed their rationale for the crimes is to my mind a little weak. However I enjoyed the plot, the characters and the historical backing very much.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Murder on Stage is set in London in 1941 during the Blitz and the descriptions of what the residents suffered are very realistic. Edie writes obituaries for a newspaper but her dream is to be a news reporter. She is good friends with a detective and when an actor dies on stage she finds herself in a position where she is first on the scene and is able to write the article.
The body count in this one is high and the mystery is interesting, but when the murderer is exposed their rationale for the crimes is to my mind a little weak. However I enjoyed the plot, the characters and the historical backing very much.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 23, 2024
4.5 / 5.0 stars
This was a delightful addition to the Edie York Mystery series set in WWII Manchester, England. The year is 1941 as the Germans continue to Blitz the Brits. The protagonist, Edie York, is still an obituarist at the Manchester Chronicle and an aspiring crime columnist. She rents a flat with her best mate, Annie and together they dream of their wonderful future selves. She is out to the theater with friends when one of the lead actors keels over on stage in death. Shortly thereafter the troupe's ingenue disappears. Then a second troupe member is found murdered. While Edie is working through the obituary for the first, she and her friend DCI Louis Brennan are trying to work through the details and staunch the progression of dying actors. But can they remain out of the murderers sights? And why is DCI Brennan so short-fused when other men show interest in Edie? He and Edie are just pals, right? If more, it's definitely a very slow burn.
The writing of this story is solid and the research is spot on. The mise en scène is cinematic, right out of a WWII film. The tension builds gradually, accelerates as it nears the climax and then eases gently. The characters are developed well and slowly over the course of the story. With each book, Edie becomes a bit less naïve and a bit more credible for the likes of a newspaper reporter. It has been fun observing her mature through the war years. All in all, this was an excellent story and I eagerly await the next book in series.
I am grateful to Flic Everett and her publisher, Bookouture for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Bookouture
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
ISBN: 978-1837904686
Pages: 290 pages
This was a delightful addition to the Edie York Mystery series set in WWII Manchester, England. The year is 1941 as the Germans continue to Blitz the Brits. The protagonist, Edie York, is still an obituarist at the Manchester Chronicle and an aspiring crime columnist. She rents a flat with her best mate, Annie and together they dream of their wonderful future selves. She is out to the theater with friends when one of the lead actors keels over on stage in death. Shortly thereafter the troupe's ingenue disappears. Then a second troupe member is found murdered. While Edie is working through the obituary for the first, she and her friend DCI Louis Brennan are trying to work through the details and staunch the progression of dying actors. But can they remain out of the murderers sights? And why is DCI Brennan so short-fused when other men show interest in Edie? He and Edie are just pals, right? If more, it's definitely a very slow burn.
The writing of this story is solid and the research is spot on. The mise en scène is cinematic, right out of a WWII film. The tension builds gradually, accelerates as it nears the climax and then eases gently. The characters are developed well and slowly over the course of the story. With each book, Edie becomes a bit less naïve and a bit more credible for the likes of a newspaper reporter. It has been fun observing her mature through the war years. All in all, this was an excellent story and I eagerly await the next book in series.
I am grateful to Flic Everett and her publisher, Bookouture for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Bookouture
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
ISBN: 978-1837904686
Pages: 290 pages
July 27, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital advance reader copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
This is the third in the Edie York mystery series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first two. It can be read as a stand-alone but do go back to read the others because they’re all great.
The story takes place during World War II just outside of London during the Blitz and is told in the first person by endearing Edie York, a want-to-be newspaper reporter who is currently an obituary writer.
Edie’s personality shines from the first page, and I was right there with her as she tried to solve first one murder, then a missing person, and then another murder – all actors. She teams up with Detective Inspector Lou Brennan and they continue their developing relationship, which generates humor as well as romance as the story progresses.
The theme of this novel is drama, with many of the characters being stage actors performing as the Victory Gang Parade before they’re off to Egypt to entertain the troops. There are several possible murder suspects, secrets, hidden histories, red herrings, and danger for multiple characters. I enjoyed trying to solve the murder along with Edie, who is clever and determined.
The novel skillfully incorporates many of the hardships of the time – food rationing, clothing limits, entertainment, blackout curtains and air raid warnings, as well as the uncertainty of bombs and mortality.
If you’re looking for an entertaining murder mystery combined with a bit of romance set during WWII, put this one on your list to read soon!
This is the third in the Edie York mystery series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first two. It can be read as a stand-alone but do go back to read the others because they’re all great.
The story takes place during World War II just outside of London during the Blitz and is told in the first person by endearing Edie York, a want-to-be newspaper reporter who is currently an obituary writer.
Edie’s personality shines from the first page, and I was right there with her as she tried to solve first one murder, then a missing person, and then another murder – all actors. She teams up with Detective Inspector Lou Brennan and they continue their developing relationship, which generates humor as well as romance as the story progresses.
The theme of this novel is drama, with many of the characters being stage actors performing as the Victory Gang Parade before they’re off to Egypt to entertain the troops. There are several possible murder suspects, secrets, hidden histories, red herrings, and danger for multiple characters. I enjoyed trying to solve the murder along with Edie, who is clever and determined.
The novel skillfully incorporates many of the hardships of the time – food rationing, clothing limits, entertainment, blackout curtains and air raid warnings, as well as the uncertainty of bombs and mortality.
If you’re looking for an entertaining murder mystery combined with a bit of romance set during WWII, put this one on your list to read soon!
April 13, 2024
The latest in this very enjoyable series set in WWII Manchester is a treat for those who like historical mysteries. Edie and friends get involved in several mysteries when things go wrong with a visiting theater troupe. There are murders, disappearances, and family secrets, all complicated by German bombing raids. As always with this series, the mystery is well done and believable, and the main characters feel very real. There are some developments in personal relationships, and I look forward to the next one!
June 20, 2024
Murder on stage by Flic Everett.
An Edie York Mystery book 3.
I did enjoy this book. Although I haven't read the first two books, I was able to get into it straight away. I did like Edie. I liked her straight away. I thought I knew who it was, but I was wrong. It was a very gripping read. I hope there is more to come. 4*.
An Edie York Mystery book 3.
I did enjoy this book. Although I haven't read the first two books, I was able to get into it straight away. I did like Edie. I liked her straight away. I thought I knew who it was, but I was wrong. It was a very gripping read. I hope there is more to come. 4*.
June 22, 2024
Fun little cosy crime set in Wartime Manchester. Third of the series, and I’m really enjoying it catching the characters develop. Well written, great setting and good characters.
July 20, 2024
F.L. Everett (https://www.fliceverett.com) is the author of six books. Murder on Stage was published last month and is the third novel in her Edie York Mystery series. It is the 56th book I completed reading in 2024.
I received an ARC of this book through https://www.netgalley.com with the expectation of a fair and honest review. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own! Due to scenes of violence, I categorize this novel as R.
While the novel is set in May of 1941 during the early years of WWII, that conflict is simply a backdrop for the plot. The primary character is fledgling newspaper woman Edie York. She is only an obituary writer, but her aspiration is crime reporting. Her close friend, Detective Chief Inspector Louis Brennan, also plays a significant role in the story.
The Victory Gang Parade, an Entertainments National Service Association (ENSA) theatre group, has relocated to York’s home of Manchester after their London theater was hit in a German bombing raid. The seven-member troupe puts on a variety show to entertain the local troops. All have taken up temporary residence for the duration of their Manchester run in a local boarding house that caters to theater people.
Both York and Brennan are in the audience when the well-known older actor Leonard Lessiter collapses during his musical performance. At first, the death is attributed to injuries suffered during the London bombing. When the pretty young rising star of the troupe, Ginney Sutton, disappears only hours later, Lessiter’s death is examined more closely.
With the cause of Lessiter’s death ruled as murder, both York and Brennan begin to dig into the case. At Brennan’s suggestion, York spends time with what remains of the troupe. She also gets to know the two sisters who run their boarding house. She discovers jealousies, lies, double-crosses, and romantic entanglements hiding just below the surface. Tensions tighten when a further member of the troupe is stabbed to death.
Will York and Brennan find the missing Sutton? Are the deaths related? Who is responsible? When will it end?
I enjoyed the 7+ hours I spent reading this 299-page mystery. This is the second mystery by Ms. Everett that I have had the opportunity to read. The other was Murder in a Country Village. They have both been enjoyable period mysteries. I give this novel a rating of 4.5 (rounded to 5) out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
I received an ARC of this book through https://www.netgalley.com with the expectation of a fair and honest review. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own! Due to scenes of violence, I categorize this novel as R.
While the novel is set in May of 1941 during the early years of WWII, that conflict is simply a backdrop for the plot. The primary character is fledgling newspaper woman Edie York. She is only an obituary writer, but her aspiration is crime reporting. Her close friend, Detective Chief Inspector Louis Brennan, also plays a significant role in the story.
The Victory Gang Parade, an Entertainments National Service Association (ENSA) theatre group, has relocated to York’s home of Manchester after their London theater was hit in a German bombing raid. The seven-member troupe puts on a variety show to entertain the local troops. All have taken up temporary residence for the duration of their Manchester run in a local boarding house that caters to theater people.
Both York and Brennan are in the audience when the well-known older actor Leonard Lessiter collapses during his musical performance. At first, the death is attributed to injuries suffered during the London bombing. When the pretty young rising star of the troupe, Ginney Sutton, disappears only hours later, Lessiter’s death is examined more closely.
With the cause of Lessiter’s death ruled as murder, both York and Brennan begin to dig into the case. At Brennan’s suggestion, York spends time with what remains of the troupe. She also gets to know the two sisters who run their boarding house. She discovers jealousies, lies, double-crosses, and romantic entanglements hiding just below the surface. Tensions tighten when a further member of the troupe is stabbed to death.
Will York and Brennan find the missing Sutton? Are the deaths related? Who is responsible? When will it end?
I enjoyed the 7+ hours I spent reading this 299-page mystery. This is the second mystery by Ms. Everett that I have had the opportunity to read. The other was Murder in a Country Village. They have both been enjoyable period mysteries. I give this novel a rating of 4.5 (rounded to 5) out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
May 24, 2024
F.L. Everett’s Murder on Stage is her third novel featuring Edie York, a reporter in Manchester during WWII. Edie is part of a tight circle: her flatmate, Annie; Annie’s beau, Arnold; and Arnold’s friend, Detective inspector Lou Brennan. Edie’s job as a reporter brings her into contact with crime and her information and insights often help Lou to solve crimes, although he hates it when she’s placed in jeopardy.
Lou invites Edie to be one of a party going to the theatre to watch an ENSA revue and they meet the cast for supper beforehand. Sadly, one of the cast later collapses and dies on stage in the middle of reciting Kipling’s “The Green Eye of the Little Yellow God” while fingering a knife. Another member of the cast, Ginny, disappears and, a few days later, the body of a third member is found, stabbed to death.
This book is excellent in so many ways. Edie and Lou are friends and we can see they’re fond of each other, but they bicker furiously and can be very sharp with each other – any question of romance is beautifully tentative. The whodunnit aspects are very well done, with suspicion falling on several characters, many of whom have something to hide. Ginny was having an affair with Guy, but Guy is married to a dominating unforgiving woman. We readers are really unsure who the murderer is or, indeed, whether there is more than one – are the events related or not? The dialogue is natural and realistic: we never have characters telling each other what they already know, just to give readers some information. Everett is very good at evoking wartime Manchester and the fear engendered by the German bombs.
If you like romance, mysteries and 1940s’ historic fiction, I suggest you give F.L. Everett a try.
#MurderonStage #NetGalley
Lou invites Edie to be one of a party going to the theatre to watch an ENSA revue and they meet the cast for supper beforehand. Sadly, one of the cast later collapses and dies on stage in the middle of reciting Kipling’s “The Green Eye of the Little Yellow God” while fingering a knife. Another member of the cast, Ginny, disappears and, a few days later, the body of a third member is found, stabbed to death.
This book is excellent in so many ways. Edie and Lou are friends and we can see they’re fond of each other, but they bicker furiously and can be very sharp with each other – any question of romance is beautifully tentative. The whodunnit aspects are very well done, with suspicion falling on several characters, many of whom have something to hide. Ginny was having an affair with Guy, but Guy is married to a dominating unforgiving woman. We readers are really unsure who the murderer is or, indeed, whether there is more than one – are the events related or not? The dialogue is natural and realistic: we never have characters telling each other what they already know, just to give readers some information. Everett is very good at evoking wartime Manchester and the fear engendered by the German bombs.
If you like romance, mysteries and 1940s’ historic fiction, I suggest you give F.L. Everett a try.
#MurderonStage #NetGalley
June 30, 2024
F.L. Everett's new book is Murder on Stage.
This is the third entry in the Edie York series. I've grown quite fond of Edie and her cohorts and was eager to see what this latest would bring. I settled in with a pot of tea, a dog and a blanket on the sofa - must haves for reading cosy English mysteries.
Edie is out with friends for a night at the theater when the lead actor falls to the floor. There's that moment - is it part of the show? Or is he..
Edie writes obituaries for the local newspaper, but she really wants to be a crime writer. She's friends with DCI Louis Brennan, who is calling on Edie's skillset to help with this case. There's a large group of suspects in the troupe to question. And as actors, it might be hard to tell who is lying. I really enjoy this style of investigation. Answers, clues, secrets and more are found by interviews, conversations, hunches and instinct. So much more interesting than DNA matches etc.
I quite enjoy cosy mysteries. Why you ask? Well, the keep calm and carry on attitude, a plucky female protagonist, a mystery, a crime, an excellent crew of supporting characters - and a dog. And....a slow building romance. I like that the personal lives of the regular group of players moves forward.
I love the amount of detail Everett has used - the setting, the shortage of food, clothing, the bombing, the war going on around them and so much more.
The door is shut on this case - but I'm sure there will be a fourth entry. I'll be watching for it!
This is the third entry in the Edie York series. I've grown quite fond of Edie and her cohorts and was eager to see what this latest would bring. I settled in with a pot of tea, a dog and a blanket on the sofa - must haves for reading cosy English mysteries.
Edie is out with friends for a night at the theater when the lead actor falls to the floor. There's that moment - is it part of the show? Or is he..
Edie writes obituaries for the local newspaper, but she really wants to be a crime writer. She's friends with DCI Louis Brennan, who is calling on Edie's skillset to help with this case. There's a large group of suspects in the troupe to question. And as actors, it might be hard to tell who is lying. I really enjoy this style of investigation. Answers, clues, secrets and more are found by interviews, conversations, hunches and instinct. So much more interesting than DNA matches etc.
I quite enjoy cosy mysteries. Why you ask? Well, the keep calm and carry on attitude, a plucky female protagonist, a mystery, a crime, an excellent crew of supporting characters - and a dog. And....a slow building romance. I like that the personal lives of the regular group of players moves forward.
I love the amount of detail Everett has used - the setting, the shortage of food, clothing, the bombing, the war going on around them and so much more.
The door is shut on this case - but I'm sure there will be a fourth entry. I'll be watching for it!
June 14, 2024
I thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance reader copy of Murder on Stage. All opinions and comments are my own.
One of the oldest motives for murder sets the stage for just that in Murder on Stage, the latest in the Edie York -- Reporter series by F.L. Everett, set in a bombed-out Manchester in 1941. As befits the title, this time it’s a dead actor and missing actress that’s got her attention. What author F.L. Everett has in mind for her readers will keep us entertained -- and figuring out the culprit -- until the final pages.
Obituary-writer Edie is still doing her best to get into some real newspaper writing -- specifically crime features -- at the Manchester Chronicle, her employer. Well, here’s hoping that after her help with ferreting out the truth of an old betrayal and the hurt and sorrow that turns to rage, that editor Gorringe will see his way clear to doing that. Fingers crossed. In the meantime, we do get an… understanding of sorts between Edie and her detective “boyfriend” DI Lou Brennan. Fingers crossed to see how that goes, too.
Murder on Stage comes complete with the drama of a city under siege, with characters that draw you in with their foibles and secrets, and with a main character that is not a Polly Perfect nor a Superwoman, either. Fictional she may be, but human enough for all that, brought to life under the expertise of her author. Looking forward to seeing what she’ll get into next.
One of the oldest motives for murder sets the stage for just that in Murder on Stage, the latest in the Edie York -- Reporter series by F.L. Everett, set in a bombed-out Manchester in 1941. As befits the title, this time it’s a dead actor and missing actress that’s got her attention. What author F.L. Everett has in mind for her readers will keep us entertained -- and figuring out the culprit -- until the final pages.
Obituary-writer Edie is still doing her best to get into some real newspaper writing -- specifically crime features -- at the Manchester Chronicle, her employer. Well, here’s hoping that after her help with ferreting out the truth of an old betrayal and the hurt and sorrow that turns to rage, that editor Gorringe will see his way clear to doing that. Fingers crossed. In the meantime, we do get an… understanding of sorts between Edie and her detective “boyfriend” DI Lou Brennan. Fingers crossed to see how that goes, too.
Murder on Stage comes complete with the drama of a city under siege, with characters that draw you in with their foibles and secrets, and with a main character that is not a Polly Perfect nor a Superwoman, either. Fictional she may be, but human enough for all that, brought to life under the expertise of her author. Looking forward to seeing what she’ll get into next.
October 8, 2024
This is book 3 in the Edie York Mystery series and I think I might have enjoyed it more if I had read the first two books. Set during WWII when women were getting assigned new roles in society, Edie is assigned to cover the theater for the news.The Victory Gang Parade theatre group are in town, entertaining the troops and the determinedly cheerful people of Manchester with their spectacular all-singing all-dancing show. But We’ll Meet Again becomes impossible for two cast members, when Leonard Lessiter dies suddenly mid-song, and leading lady Ginny Sutton goes missing the very same night.
Reluctantly encouraged by DCI Louis Brennan – up to his ears catching looters and ration cheats – to investigate, Edie interviews the cast and quickly uncovers jealousies, lies and back-stabbings galore. From former lovers to bitter rejects, old hands to up-and-coming ingénues, any one of them could be guilty. And the leading lady Ginny is still missing.
Then Edie gets caught in a bombing raid and finds her chief suspect stabbed with a stage dagger. As the body count climbs, will Edie and Louis find Ginny alive? Can they uncover the most theatrical killer they’ve ever encountered? Or will it be the final curtain call for the detecting duo…?
Reluctantly encouraged by DCI Louis Brennan – up to his ears catching looters and ration cheats – to investigate, Edie interviews the cast and quickly uncovers jealousies, lies and back-stabbings galore. From former lovers to bitter rejects, old hands to up-and-coming ingénues, any one of them could be guilty. And the leading lady Ginny is still missing.
Then Edie gets caught in a bombing raid and finds her chief suspect stabbed with a stage dagger. As the body count climbs, will Edie and Louis find Ginny alive? Can they uncover the most theatrical killer they’ve ever encountered? Or will it be the final curtain call for the detecting duo…?
April 24, 2024
Edie is a trainee reporter on a newspaper writing the obituary column. She would however prefer to be doing the crime page as this is where her passion lies. This is 1941 and life is very different in the war era for everyone. There is a theatre group in town and mid performance one of the actors dies on stage and the next day one of the actresses goes missing. Edie gets on well with the local detective and is given pretty much free rein to investigate. Who is against the group and why?
This is a wonderful, entertaining, easy read and one with a smile. It is one of a series (the third) but happily stands alone. One to immerse the reader in wartime, good old fashioned detective work with none of the trappings of modern life. Edie has a steely determination and a good pair of eyes and ears which often works well in her favour whilst being a delightful character . A cozy type mystery to bring a smile and keep the pages more than happily turning. I look forward to the next one.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter (X) or Threads @nickisbookblog
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June 21, 2024
Not a huge war time story fan, so struggled to get into the previous 2 books, but I was wrapped in this one straight away. I quite enjoyed that the war was more scene setting and sub plot than at the core of the story, like the previous books.
I really loved meeting Edie's friends, their little get together for Clara coming home was great, and meeting Marie was also amazing. One fault is that there are just too many characters! I know Suki, Clara and Annie, but other than that, the friends are a mystery to me - they're names only. I felt the same about the actors in this book too - there were just too many of them to truly keep track of who is who and who said what and who did what.
I really loved the development in Edie and Lou's relationship! Been waiting since about a quarter of the way through book 1, so I think I deserved it. Love their little ways of showing how much they cared for each other throughout all of the books, and the subtle confession towards the end of this book felt very on brand. Now just got to wait for book 4 to see where they go.
I really loved meeting Edie's friends, their little get together for Clara coming home was great, and meeting Marie was also amazing. One fault is that there are just too many characters! I know Suki, Clara and Annie, but other than that, the friends are a mystery to me - they're names only. I felt the same about the actors in this book too - there were just too many of them to truly keep track of who is who and who said what and who did what.
I really loved the development in Edie and Lou's relationship! Been waiting since about a quarter of the way through book 1, so I think I deserved it. Love their little ways of showing how much they cared for each other throughout all of the books, and the subtle confession towards the end of this book felt very on brand. Now just got to wait for book 4 to see where they go.
July 15, 2024
Murder in Stage is the 3rd instalment of the Edie York mysteries by author F L Everett. This is a cozy mystery series based in the WWII era.
Edie York is a writer for the Manchester Chronicle. After most of the men went off to war, Edie was promoted from typist to obituary writer. While not the exciting crime writing she was hoping for, she’s one of the first female reporters to be published.
Although crime writing isn’t in Edie’s near future, she somehow always manages to get herself mixed up into some kind of murder or another. Alongside her friends including DI Inspector Lou Brennan, Edie is swept up into an investigation involving the local theatre group.
After an actor mysteriously dies on stage during a performance at the local theatre, Edie gets to know the performers and when another of their close group disappears, an investigation is officially launched.
Edie works with Lou to interview the cast and uncovers secrets, lies and lovers. It’s difficult to determine the truth from acting when you’re trying to get a sense for who could be involved in the crime.
After getting caught in a bombing raid, Edie discovers one of the key suspects dead and she’s left with more questions than answers.
This was another wonderful great story in the series. The author is really starting to tease out the main characters (Edie & her friends) as well as their relationships. We’re finally starting to see the chemistry between Edie and Lou surface and be addressed.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and especially invested in what happens next with Lou and Edie. This was a solid 4 star read for me.
Edie York is a writer for the Manchester Chronicle. After most of the men went off to war, Edie was promoted from typist to obituary writer. While not the exciting crime writing she was hoping for, she’s one of the first female reporters to be published.
Although crime writing isn’t in Edie’s near future, she somehow always manages to get herself mixed up into some kind of murder or another. Alongside her friends including DI Inspector Lou Brennan, Edie is swept up into an investigation involving the local theatre group.
After an actor mysteriously dies on stage during a performance at the local theatre, Edie gets to know the performers and when another of their close group disappears, an investigation is officially launched.
Edie works with Lou to interview the cast and uncovers secrets, lies and lovers. It’s difficult to determine the truth from acting when you’re trying to get a sense for who could be involved in the crime.
After getting caught in a bombing raid, Edie discovers one of the key suspects dead and she’s left with more questions than answers.
This was another wonderful great story in the series. The author is really starting to tease out the main characters (Edie & her friends) as well as their relationships. We’re finally starting to see the chemistry between Edie and Lou surface and be addressed.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and especially invested in what happens next with Lou and Edie. This was a solid 4 star read for me.
April 27, 2024
The third in the Edie York mysteries - I haven't read the first two but this reads well as a standalone, and I enjoyed this enough to want to read the other two.
The book is set in Manchester in the second world war; the research has clearly been done well (and drip-fed rather than info-dumped!) and you really do get a feel for the era and the surroundings.
When one of the actors from the ENSA troupe dies on stage, the police think it's from natural causes. But then another actor goes missing - and young obituary writer Edie (who wants to be a crime journalist) is determined to find out the truth.
Loved the camaderie of the actors and the landladies at their digs. Edie's very level-headed, a warm and bright character who's a good foil to irascible DI Lou Brennan.
Recommended. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
The book is set in Manchester in the second world war; the research has clearly been done well (and drip-fed rather than info-dumped!) and you really do get a feel for the era and the surroundings.
When one of the actors from the ENSA troupe dies on stage, the police think it's from natural causes. But then another actor goes missing - and young obituary writer Edie (who wants to be a crime journalist) is determined to find out the truth.
Loved the camaderie of the actors and the landladies at their digs. Edie's very level-headed, a warm and bright character who's a good foil to irascible DI Lou Brennan.
Recommended. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
May 16, 2024
Murder on Stage is another compelling read in the Edie York Mystery Series
Edie finds herself involved in with a theatre troupe and soon we have a dead body, a missing actress, secrets and misdirection.
No one seems to be who they say they are.
Lou is back on the case and along with Edie they are racing against the clock as the bodies pile up.
It's war time and to add to the tension, the Germans are continually bombing London.
Murder on Stage is detective work at its finest for its time.
The Edie York series gets better with every book and this is my favourite of the three, until the book four that is.
Highly enjoyable and fun series that I highly recommend to spend a few hours with as you solve the case along with Lou and Edie.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for page turning read.
Edie finds herself involved in with a theatre troupe and soon we have a dead body, a missing actress, secrets and misdirection.
No one seems to be who they say they are.
Lou is back on the case and along with Edie they are racing against the clock as the bodies pile up.
It's war time and to add to the tension, the Germans are continually bombing London.
Murder on Stage is detective work at its finest for its time.
The Edie York series gets better with every book and this is my favourite of the three, until the book four that is.
Highly enjoyable and fun series that I highly recommend to spend a few hours with as you solve the case along with Lou and Edie.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for page turning read.
June 23, 2024
This is the third book in the Edie York Mystery series, but the first one I have read. I think it works perfectly well as a standalone book, and at no point did I feel I was missing anything having not read the others.
I love a good cozy mystery, and this one did not disappoint. As well as a classic whodunnit mystery, this book also had two other elements that I love. It's set in wartime which is my favourite period in history, and it involves the theatre world with all the magic that is showbiz.
The characters were all wonderfully well written. I really felt like I knew them all by the end of the book. I never really trusted any of them fully though, which added to the mysterious element of this book.
I really did find this book addictive and compelling and read it curled up on my sofa in one sitting.
I love a good cozy mystery, and this one did not disappoint. As well as a classic whodunnit mystery, this book also had two other elements that I love. It's set in wartime which is my favourite period in history, and it involves the theatre world with all the magic that is showbiz.
The characters were all wonderfully well written. I really felt like I knew them all by the end of the book. I never really trusted any of them fully though, which added to the mysterious element of this book.
I really did find this book addictive and compelling and read it curled up on my sofa in one sitting.
April 14, 2024
Another very enjoyable outing for Edie York, the obituary writer who longs to be a crime reporter.
When veteran actor Leonard Lessiter dies (literally) on stage, no one is suspicious. When his fellow thespian, the lovely young Ginny, disappears, though, more questions are asked. Where can she have gone? And why? Everyone in the cast agrees she was a dedicated member of their little troupe. Edie soon finds out you get plenty of intrigue with theatricals, and she manages to infuriate irritable DI Lou Brennan on several occasions. This is a very nicely constructed mystery, with good period details, and I look forward to the next one.
When veteran actor Leonard Lessiter dies (literally) on stage, no one is suspicious. When his fellow thespian, the lovely young Ginny, disappears, though, more questions are asked. Where can she have gone? And why? Everyone in the cast agrees she was a dedicated member of their little troupe. Edie soon finds out you get plenty of intrigue with theatricals, and she manages to infuriate irritable DI Lou Brennan on several occasions. This is a very nicely constructed mystery, with good period details, and I look forward to the next one.
April 17, 2024
This was my first book in the Edie York mysteries and it was a hugely enjoyable read. Edie is an obituary reporter on a newspaper in Manchester during the Second World War, but works closely (and quietly) with a police detective to look into crimes. This one centres around mysterious deaths in a touring theatre troupe.
The setting is very nicely done and the wartime background is interesting, especially as it’s unusual for that to be set in the north. I enjoyed the plot and the characters and I’ll certainly read more in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
The setting is very nicely done and the wartime background is interesting, especially as it’s unusual for that to be set in the north. I enjoyed the plot and the characters and I’ll certainly read more in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
May 18, 2024
Set in England in 1941. The world is perilous and glamorous. Characters are interesting. The book is suspenseful and mysterious. An Actor is found dead on stage and Edie found him while she was taking the interview of Gaiety’s doorman. The truth is twisted and as the heinous crimes happens including the death of Leonard and Ginny’s disappearance. It is so shocking, Edie is trying to find clues leading to his death as she interviews the cast, secrets and truth unveils with layer of mystery. The truth is twisted and shocking. Twists kept me on toes. The ending was jaw dropping. Will Edie and Louis be able to find Ginny before it’s too late?
Thanks to the Publisher
Thanks to the Publisher
June 11, 2024
In 1941 England, trainee reporter Edie York investigates a shocking mystery when a lead actor drops dead on stage during a wartime show. As Edie delves into the world of the theatre group, she uncovers jealousies, lies, and a cast of suspicious characters. With a missing leading lady and a rising body count, can Edie and DCI Brennan solve the mystery before the murderer kills again?
This is an emotional historical mystery with well-developed characters and an engaging plot. I quickly became attached to the characters and look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is an emotional historical mystery with well-developed characters and an engaging plot. I quickly became attached to the characters and look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 19, 2024
I have enjoyed all the books in the Edie York Mystery series, and this one is particularly engaging as it involves an acting troupe in WW2. The cast of characters is vibrant without being stereotypical, and the WW2 setting in Northern England is evocative. I enjoyed the character development of Edie, Lou, and their friends in this book, and it's satisfying to see the deepened friendship dynamic. The WW2 era is detailed and immersive, drawing the reader into wartime Britain in the 1940s. The mystery investigation keeps you turning the pages, and it's a lovely escapist read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 20, 2024
I do enjoy Edie and her friends. The setting is World War II Manchester. Our detective is a working class obituary writer who manages to investigate murders. Bombing, rationing and sexism are just daily life for Edie. If this is the first book you’re looking at, go back and start from the beginning. There are a number of romances/friendships that bubble along beneath the main mystery and they’re more fun if you already know the characters. Too many people died and not the one I most wanted dead. However, it was a very intricate mystery with a surprising solution that I had trouble putting down.
January 14, 2025
Loved this entire series!
I couldn't read these books fast enough! The plots have lots of twists and turns, and set in wartime Manchester there's plenty of excitement in the background at all times. I feel like her depictions of life for the average people was very accurate. It was a pretty grim daily life and constant threat of bombings, but people got on because they had to. Edie and Annie are a delightful pair of roomies and it's clear from the start that DI Lou Brennan is probably more than just Edie's friend, but neither will admit it. The mysteries are all very different and well thought out. I hope the author will consider writing a 4th.
I couldn't read these books fast enough! The plots have lots of twists and turns, and set in wartime Manchester there's plenty of excitement in the background at all times. I feel like her depictions of life for the average people was very accurate. It was a pretty grim daily life and constant threat of bombings, but people got on because they had to. Edie and Annie are a delightful pair of roomies and it's clear from the start that DI Lou Brennan is probably more than just Edie's friend, but neither will admit it. The mysteries are all very different and well thought out. I hope the author will consider writing a 4th.
April 26, 2024
A veteran actor dies onstage but there is no need for suspicion, but the leading lady disappears without her major personal effects on the same night. Obituary writer Edie York becomes involved with the cast and more even as new crises arise. DCI Louis Brennan becomes her contact on The Force and the work well together even as the drama becomes more and more complicated. The characters are realistic and the plot becomes rather twisty in a good way.
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 3, 2024
1941. After the theatre was bombed in London, The Victory Gang Parade theatre group move to Manchester. But one of the actors dies on stage, an apparent natural death. Then another one goes missing. DCI Louis Brennan investigates while Edie York asks her own questions, but what will she reveal.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and varied characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and varied characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2024
This is the 3rd book in the Edie York series. This book sees Lou’s sister visiting Manchester due to bombings in London. When the friends go to see a show, an actor dies on stage and another member of the acting group goes missing. Lou, stressed and overworked investigating other crimes asks Edie to look into the mystery.
This series is so much more than a cosy crime series, set in the Second World War you are reminded of the danger of living in a city in war time.
Thanks must go to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
This series is so much more than a cosy crime series, set in the Second World War you are reminded of the danger of living in a city in war time.
Thanks must go to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
June 18, 2024
This was a different take on a mystery novel. it starts with a death on the stage and then we have a missing persons case. I enjoyed the story and the characters and also the plot as this is the type of mystery that I like. I had not read the previous books which means that I have not got alot of the background for the characters that the previous 2 books would have given me. I do think that it would have been an advantage to have read the others however this did not take away from my enjoyment of the book.
June 20, 2024
Book #3 in the Edie York series. Edie writes obituaries for the Manchester Chronicle but dreams of flexing her writing skills to include crime reporting. After deaths and disappearances find the theater group cast, Edie and her friends will investigate, all while dodging the blitz that's reining down on the UK. FL Everett has done a good job assembling this cast of friends and wanna be friends to keep the back story moving while the murder investigation seems stalled. Overall a great story with some surprising twists and clues that set up the next book too.
May 5, 2024
This is my first book read written by F.L. Everett, so getting used to the style of writing took me a few chapters. But once I did, I loved the characters and the storyline!
Edie is so strong willed and her new budding friendship with Marie was one of my favorite parts. Edie and Lou's dynamic works great too to tag team different aspects of what they are looking for throughout the mystery.
Can't wait to read more by this author, pretty excited for it.
Edie is so strong willed and her new budding friendship with Marie was one of my favorite parts. Edie and Lou's dynamic works great too to tag team different aspects of what they are looking for throughout the mystery.
Can't wait to read more by this author, pretty excited for it.
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