What do you think?
Rate this book
Chief Inspector Shadow Mystery #8
A Saxon Shadow
Ancient history or a motive for murder?
Chief Inspector Shadow is investigating an act of vandalism in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and several random break-ins around York when he’s called out to a moorland village. A wealthy but eccentric businessman, obsessed with Saxon history, has been found dead. Adding to the confusion, the victim’s study’s been ransacked and there’s a second burglary in the village and vandalism in the churchyard. Are all the cases related? Initially, the death seems centered around an ancient Saxon treasure trove and missing parchment map. But there are many reasons for murder. This list of suspects grows frustratingly long, baffling Shadow.
John Shadow is a man of contradictions. A solitary figure who shuns company but is a keen observer of all he meets. A lover of good food but whose fridge is almost always empty. He prefers to work alone but is assisted by the eager Sergeant Jimmy Chang.
Now Inspector Shadow and Jimmy must discover if the murder is linked to the ancient treasure or the more recent past.
Chief Inspector Shadow is investigating an act of vandalism in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and several random break-ins around York when he’s called out to a moorland village. A wealthy but eccentric businessman, obsessed with Saxon history, has been found dead. Adding to the confusion, the victim’s study’s been ransacked and there’s a second burglary in the village and vandalism in the churchyard. Are all the cases related? Initially, the death seems centered around an ancient Saxon treasure trove and missing parchment map. But there are many reasons for murder. This list of suspects grows frustratingly long, baffling Shadow.
John Shadow is a man of contradictions. A solitary figure who shuns company but is a keen observer of all he meets. A lover of good food but whose fridge is almost always empty. He prefers to work alone but is assisted by the eager Sergeant Jimmy Chang.
Now Inspector Shadow and Jimmy must discover if the murder is linked to the ancient treasure or the more recent past.
- GenresMystery
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
10 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 4, 2024
I came into this series late and I have only read book one and now this one, but I loved the first one and this one as well and I am really looking forward to catching up with the others in the series, I am loving Chief Inspector John Shadow set in his ways and not impressed with all of the new ways of policing and then there is Sergeant Jimmy Chang, they make a fabulous team together.
There is a lot happening around York at the moment vandalism in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey not to mention the break and enters that have been happening and Shadow and Jimmy are on the case when they are called to The Mill house when the owner and eccentric business man and one who obsessed with Saxon history is found dead in his study. It appears that it may have been a burglary gone wrong with another one in the village that same time as well, but is it, can Shadow and Jimmy get the answers they need to discover what happened?
This one is filled with such fabulous characters most interested in the Saxon history of the area and searching for a treasure trove of historical items that people have been searching for, for many years, the list of suspects grows as does Shadow’s indigestion with Jimmy’s mind moving fast and coming up with thoughts as well.
This is such a fabulous mystery, it had me thinking I didn’t pick the culprit till the very end, this story is witty and I love the interaction between Shadow and Jimmy, I do highly recommend this one, I am looking forward to catching up with the series.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
There is a lot happening around York at the moment vandalism in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey not to mention the break and enters that have been happening and Shadow and Jimmy are on the case when they are called to The Mill house when the owner and eccentric business man and one who obsessed with Saxon history is found dead in his study. It appears that it may have been a burglary gone wrong with another one in the village that same time as well, but is it, can Shadow and Jimmy get the answers they need to discover what happened?
This one is filled with such fabulous characters most interested in the Saxon history of the area and searching for a treasure trove of historical items that people have been searching for, for many years, the list of suspects grows as does Shadow’s indigestion with Jimmy’s mind moving fast and coming up with thoughts as well.
This is such a fabulous mystery, it had me thinking I didn’t pick the culprit till the very end, this story is witty and I love the interaction between Shadow and Jimmy, I do highly recommend this one, I am looking forward to catching up with the series.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
October 7, 2024
HL Marsay's A Saxon Shadow is the third book in the series that I've read (I'm out of order here), but just as delightful as the first two. John Shadow and Jimmy Chang are the perfect crime-solving duo, and play off each other with charm and wit. I didn't get the mystery solved before they did, which is always a win for me! Highly recommend all the Inspector Shadow novels--I'm definitely going back in for more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2024
This is my first time into this series, but I was able to jump in and follow along. CI Shadow plays to type as a cop with indigestion and inability to take care of himself. This does not take away from enjoyment of the story. He, of course, has an earnest sidekick (Jimmy) who you just want to take home and keep in your pocket. The MC is clever, but not too clever too soon, so there is plenty of intrigue to keep you guessing to the end. I will definitely read more in this series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2024
A Saxon Shadow is the 8th book in H.L. Marsay’s fabulous series, Chief Inspector Shadow Mystery. I have read all eight books and have loved them all. H.L. has done such a great job in setting the stage for some very intriguing mystery stories. The characters of John Shadow and Jimmy Chang are so fun to read. I especially enjoy John’s comments under his breath about the people he works with. It is great to see the staff from the York Constable department again, Tom, Ollie and Ben. I also enjoy when Shadow has to deal with Donaldson in the mortuary.
In this new story, Shadow and Jimmy learn about several different crimes: digging in various church yards and government sites, thefts and vandalism around York when residents are on holiday and a break-in in a nearby town. When they travel to Ellersby to investigate, they discover there has also been a murder of a prominent person. The deceased was a devotee of the Saxon history. He along with his best friend and a couple other townspeople formed a Saxon society. A map had turned up from his father’s attic that had him ready to search. There are many twists and surprises in the book. The deceased is married with a son but it is discovered that his wife is involved with someone else, He also has a brother that he doesn’t agree with. His former fiancée broke off the engagement many years prior and moved to Ireland. Her work includes dabbling in herbs and teas. She is back and involved with her ex and providing him with special teas. She also has a contemptuous relationship with her brother and others in the town. There is a treasure that is rumored to be buried in a church yard and is the reason why Shadow and Jimmy are finding places that have been dug up. The number of suspects for the murder is overwhelming for Shadow. They aren’t sure if the burglaries and the digging for treasure are related to the murderer.
As has been the case with the prior books in the series, A Saxon Shadow doesn’t disappoint. I enjoy trying to figure out who the murderer is. Unfortunately for me, the author is too clever with the clues and details and I can’t ever guess right. I like how Jimmy is also so entertaining and enthusiastic while Shadow is more cynical and just wants to solve the case. It is fun hearing about Shadow and his meal choices. The historical parts of the story are also quite fascinating. In fact, thanks to H.L., York is on my list of places to visit next year when I finally make it back to Europe. A 5 star book I’m happy to recommend.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
In this new story, Shadow and Jimmy learn about several different crimes: digging in various church yards and government sites, thefts and vandalism around York when residents are on holiday and a break-in in a nearby town. When they travel to Ellersby to investigate, they discover there has also been a murder of a prominent person. The deceased was a devotee of the Saxon history. He along with his best friend and a couple other townspeople formed a Saxon society. A map had turned up from his father’s attic that had him ready to search. There are many twists and surprises in the book. The deceased is married with a son but it is discovered that his wife is involved with someone else, He also has a brother that he doesn’t agree with. His former fiancée broke off the engagement many years prior and moved to Ireland. Her work includes dabbling in herbs and teas. She is back and involved with her ex and providing him with special teas. She also has a contemptuous relationship with her brother and others in the town. There is a treasure that is rumored to be buried in a church yard and is the reason why Shadow and Jimmy are finding places that have been dug up. The number of suspects for the murder is overwhelming for Shadow. They aren’t sure if the burglaries and the digging for treasure are related to the murderer.
As has been the case with the prior books in the series, A Saxon Shadow doesn’t disappoint. I enjoy trying to figure out who the murderer is. Unfortunately for me, the author is too clever with the clues and details and I can’t ever guess right. I like how Jimmy is also so entertaining and enthusiastic while Shadow is more cynical and just wants to solve the case. It is fun hearing about Shadow and his meal choices. The historical parts of the story are also quite fascinating. In fact, thanks to H.L., York is on my list of places to visit next year when I finally make it back to Europe. A 5 star book I’m happy to recommend.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
July 15, 2025
Chief Inspector Shadow has a string of crimes: vandalism in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, a spate of break-ins in York, then a murder in a small Moorland village, where, surprise, surprise there are also signs of a break-in and vandalism in the local churchyard (shamelessly stolen from the blurb).
The victim, Kenelm Underhill was an independently wealthy man who co-owned a pet food company and was obsessed with Saxon history, particularly the legend of King Alfred’s Hoard which he allegedly buried locally when fleeing the Vikings.
Are all/any of the crimes related? Shadow finds the village is a hotbed of infidelity, jealousy, rivalry, and unrequited love. as the list of suspects and motives grows can Shadow pick through the evidence and uncover the perpetrator?
I requested this book after reading the previous book in the series. In the interim I purchased the first two books and discovered my feelings towards Chief Inspector Shadow had grown into active dislike. He's just unpleasant to his staff, a total stick-in-the-mud, and a culinary philistine. Hence why it has taken me ten months to finish a book I started reading three weeks prior to publication.
Now obviously picking up a book and putting it down for months on end doesn't help keep the characters straight but I couldn't really tell any of the suspects apart (obviously male versus female wasn't an issue) but best friend/brother/rival didn't really stand out in any way and it all became a bit convoluted and the number of crimes just grew and grew. Frankly, I though Sergeant Chang did better at spotting a crime than Shadow.
Clearly this series is not for me, I don't like a curmudgeonly detective or a distracting number of suspects where the clue to unlocking the crime involves a superhuman feat. I will no longer request books in this series, although I still like all the other books I have read by this author.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
The victim, Kenelm Underhill was an independently wealthy man who co-owned a pet food company and was obsessed with Saxon history, particularly the legend of King Alfred’s Hoard which he allegedly buried locally when fleeing the Vikings.
Are all/any of the crimes related? Shadow finds the village is a hotbed of infidelity, jealousy, rivalry, and unrequited love. as the list of suspects and motives grows can Shadow pick through the evidence and uncover the perpetrator?
I requested this book after reading the previous book in the series. In the interim I purchased the first two books and discovered my feelings towards Chief Inspector Shadow had grown into active dislike. He's just unpleasant to his staff, a total stick-in-the-mud, and a culinary philistine. Hence why it has taken me ten months to finish a book I started reading three weeks prior to publication.
Now obviously picking up a book and putting it down for months on end doesn't help keep the characters straight but I couldn't really tell any of the suspects apart (obviously male versus female wasn't an issue) but best friend/brother/rival didn't really stand out in any way and it all became a bit convoluted and the number of crimes just grew and grew. Frankly, I though Sergeant Chang did better at spotting a crime than Shadow.
Clearly this series is not for me, I don't like a curmudgeonly detective or a distracting number of suspects where the clue to unlocking the crime involves a superhuman feat. I will no longer request books in this series, although I still like all the other books I have read by this author.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
October 8, 2024
I am a little bit addicted to this series and the setting in modern day York. So much so that a recent trip to Europe had to include a stopover in York. We visited York Minster, the Shambles and walked along the city walls that feature in the books. I may have paid special attention to the grassy slopes under the walls in case a corpse might be waiting to be found. It was a thrill to see the houseboats anchored along the river and try and figure out if Florence might be amongst them.
A Saxon Shadow is once again themed around the amazing historical significance of York which has been a historical site from long before the Roman era.
This time, there is a rumored Saxon Horde of gold and artifacts at the centre of the mystery. Who is searching for the artifacts and are they the same people who are digging up historic sites in York and surrounding areas?
The death of a man who has made it his life's work to search for the treasure only complicates matters.
Inspector Shadow and Sergeant Chang on on the case and along with their circle of friends and acquaintances, we are introduced to a range of people who may or may not have reasons to be involved in both death and treasure hunt.
I really enjoy the steady pace that Inspector Shadow brings to his investigations with the sprightly assistance of his offsider. Both are fully formed protagonists and the setting in York and surrounds is vividly painted.
The solution was satisfying and the loose ends were tied in a neat and methodical manner. I look forward to more books in this series.
I received an early copy of this book for review because I couldn't wait for the official release date.
A Saxon Shadow is once again themed around the amazing historical significance of York which has been a historical site from long before the Roman era.
This time, there is a rumored Saxon Horde of gold and artifacts at the centre of the mystery. Who is searching for the artifacts and are they the same people who are digging up historic sites in York and surrounding areas?
The death of a man who has made it his life's work to search for the treasure only complicates matters.
Inspector Shadow and Sergeant Chang on on the case and along with their circle of friends and acquaintances, we are introduced to a range of people who may or may not have reasons to be involved in both death and treasure hunt.
I really enjoy the steady pace that Inspector Shadow brings to his investigations with the sprightly assistance of his offsider. Both are fully formed protagonists and the setting in York and surrounds is vividly painted.
The solution was satisfying and the loose ends were tied in a neat and methodical manner. I look forward to more books in this series.
I received an early copy of this book for review because I couldn't wait for the official release date.
September 13, 2024
A Saxon Shadow is the 8th book in H L Marsay’s Chief Inspector Shadow Mystery series. This story is the next compelling tale in the saga of Chief Inspector John Shadow and Sergent Jimmy Chang. This story happens in and around York with much of their time spent in neighboring hamlets. Someone is digging at the sites of older Saxon church ruins. Are the occurrences connected? Is it vandalism or a search for Saxon treasure?
An older inhabitant of one hamlet is well suited to answer, but he is found dead and his house broken into. Every time the detectives follow another lead, it branches into at least two more. Their investigation is occurring is small villages, but the secrets are large and almost as old as the villages.
A Saxon Shadow is another exquisite puzzle from master storyteller H L Marsay. A puzzle of human nature, emotions, motivations, and love. Many times, the detectives find love at the center of their cases. It may not be sexual love, but caring love for a person, place, thing, or tradition. Never fear. Just hold on like Shadow does when Jimmy is driving, and all will be revealed. I can not compliment this story and series enough. I hope the author never stops writing and Shadow and Chang aren’t allowed to retire! Rating: 5+ STARS!!!
An older inhabitant of one hamlet is well suited to answer, but he is found dead and his house broken into. Every time the detectives follow another lead, it branches into at least two more. Their investigation is occurring is small villages, but the secrets are large and almost as old as the villages.
A Saxon Shadow is another exquisite puzzle from master storyteller H L Marsay. A puzzle of human nature, emotions, motivations, and love. Many times, the detectives find love at the center of their cases. It may not be sexual love, but caring love for a person, place, thing, or tradition. Never fear. Just hold on like Shadow does when Jimmy is driving, and all will be revealed. I can not compliment this story and series enough. I hope the author never stops writing and Shadow and Chang aren’t allowed to retire! Rating: 5+ STARS!!!
October 13, 2024
A Saxon Shadow is the eighth book in the series and, as I’ve read all the earlier books, I felt right at home as Chief Inspector John Shadow and his trusty sidekick
Sergeant Jimmy Chang once again set out to solve an apparently inexplicable murder. With a series of break-ins and some vandalism taking place at the same time, there’s plenty to keep Jimmy busy tapping into his notes app and prevent Shadow from enjoying quite as many eagerly anticipated meals as he’d have liked. These two are chalk and cheese in their approach to life but while Jimmy annoys Shadow nearly as much as forensic scientists Ben and Ollie, I got the impression that the relationship between the two detectives has mellowed in this book. This story is set mostly in the Saxon village of Ellerdale, between York and Whitby in England’s north Yorkshire district. The scene is set well and it’s easy to envisage both the setting and the various characters that pepper the pages. I had a pretty good idea of who the murderer was early in the story but no idea why, partly because the victim had been poisoned as well as strangled and stabbed. The many twists in this tale keptme guessing to the end as to who was responsible for what and why, making for a very enjoyable read.
Sergeant Jimmy Chang once again set out to solve an apparently inexplicable murder. With a series of break-ins and some vandalism taking place at the same time, there’s plenty to keep Jimmy busy tapping into his notes app and prevent Shadow from enjoying quite as many eagerly anticipated meals as he’d have liked. These two are chalk and cheese in their approach to life but while Jimmy annoys Shadow nearly as much as forensic scientists Ben and Ollie, I got the impression that the relationship between the two detectives has mellowed in this book. This story is set mostly in the Saxon village of Ellerdale, between York and Whitby in England’s north Yorkshire district. The scene is set well and it’s easy to envisage both the setting and the various characters that pepper the pages. I had a pretty good idea of who the murderer was early in the story but no idea why, partly because the victim had been poisoned as well as strangled and stabbed. The many twists in this tale keptme guessing to the end as to who was responsible for what and why, making for a very enjoyable read.
October 4, 2024
A Saxon Shadow is book 8 in a series but can easily read as a standalone. I have read others in the series and enjoyed catching up with DCI Shadow again and his Sargent Jimmy. Set in and around York the reader travels with the pair around the little villages nearby as they try to unravel a murder , as well as burglaries . Like all small towns there are secrets to uncover , and family disagreements are revealed but I enjoy the way the author H L Marsay takes Shadow back to his house boat Florence when he craves some solitude, to be able to think through a complicated case. Intricate characters and Saxon treasure are woven together in this murder mystery which causes the Chief Inspector to reach for the indigestion tablets, but overall it is a worthwhile read which will appeal to anyone who enjoys this genre.
It was interesting for me to read of the Ouse and Exe street rivers , as the town I live in New Zealand has street names from UK rivers and both these are near where I live
I received an e-copy to read and review and I am pleased to provide this review which is entirely my own work .
It was interesting for me to read of the Ouse and Exe street rivers , as the town I live in New Zealand has street names from UK rivers and both these are near where I live
I received an e-copy to read and review and I am pleased to provide this review which is entirely my own work .
October 7, 2024
What a confusing set of seemingly unrelated incidents. Chief Inspector Shadow and his happy go lucky sidekick DS Jimmy Chang are back at it. This time they are caught up in a string of robberies and then a murder. Shadow is sure they’re somehow all connected and yet there’s something missing. The more they investigate the more confounding this case becomes. Can Shadow and Jimmy solve this puzzle read on to find out!
I really enjoy this series. It reminds me a bit of the tv show The Chelsea Detective. Shadow is a lovable curmudgeon if ever there was one and Jimmy is like a puppy full of energy and always happy to see you. The mystery is clever and has a few red herrings thrown in to confuse us all along the way. That small village hoo boy is it toxic! All those middle aged adults acting as if they were a bunch of spoiled kids. Sometimes you never grow out of childhood grudges I guess. The pace is a bit plodding but it absolutely fits with the old school Shadow. As you read you uncover more and more and the story blossoms. Definitely a worthwhile read!
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoy this series. It reminds me a bit of the tv show The Chelsea Detective. Shadow is a lovable curmudgeon if ever there was one and Jimmy is like a puppy full of energy and always happy to see you. The mystery is clever and has a few red herrings thrown in to confuse us all along the way. That small village hoo boy is it toxic! All those middle aged adults acting as if they were a bunch of spoiled kids. Sometimes you never grow out of childhood grudges I guess. The pace is a bit plodding but it absolutely fits with the old school Shadow. As you read you uncover more and more and the story blossoms. Definitely a worthwhile read!
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2024
Jumping into this book felt like a subdued Dan Brown novel. I wish the book could have built from there and went a little bit more into the history.
The story was a great mystery, not an action-packed mystery, which I tend to prefer. The scene-setting and location descriptions were really thoughtful - at times, I thought I could smell the fish and chips!
One thing that was hard for me, personally, to follow, was there were a lot of characters, and it was sometimes hard to keep everyone straight. I found myself more than a few times asking myself, "Wait, who is this again?"
The ending was just a touch predictable, and a little lackluster, but all in all, I enjoyed this book. If you're looking for a book for sitting on your porch, or lounging in the recliner with a tea, this one is good and won't keep you on the edge of your seat.
If I could only use one word to describe this book, I think I would use "cozy." It's a cozy mystery.
** I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story was a great mystery, not an action-packed mystery, which I tend to prefer. The scene-setting and location descriptions were really thoughtful - at times, I thought I could smell the fish and chips!
One thing that was hard for me, personally, to follow, was there were a lot of characters, and it was sometimes hard to keep everyone straight. I found myself more than a few times asking myself, "Wait, who is this again?"
The ending was just a touch predictable, and a little lackluster, but all in all, I enjoyed this book. If you're looking for a book for sitting on your porch, or lounging in the recliner with a tea, this one is good and won't keep you on the edge of your seat.
If I could only use one word to describe this book, I think I would use "cozy." It's a cozy mystery.
** I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2024
Chief Inspector Shadow is at it again in A Saxon Shadow by H L Marsay. The eighth book in the Chief Inspector Shadow Mystery is just as great as the previous seven. Perhaps even more since John Shadow is beginning to thaw a bit with each book. Not that he won’t always be a grumpy if brilliant chief inspector, that is who he is. Even without his acknowledging it, he is letting people into his world more and more.
Usually, I discover the culprit about the time that the Chief Inspector does, but this time was a surprise. Often several suspects have reasons to hide their activities with this one being the same. Miss Marple would have been right there with the Chief Inspector since she once stated that villages breed all kinds of criminal activities. This story would back her up. No matter, John Shadow will root out the truth which he does cleverly as always. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading the previous books, don’t let that stop you from reading A Saxon Shadow. Jump into this series today with book eight.
Usually, I discover the culprit about the time that the Chief Inspector does, but this time was a surprise. Often several suspects have reasons to hide their activities with this one being the same. Miss Marple would have been right there with the Chief Inspector since she once stated that villages breed all kinds of criminal activities. This story would back her up. No matter, John Shadow will root out the truth which he does cleverly as always. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading the previous books, don’t let that stop you from reading A Saxon Shadow. Jump into this series today with book eight.
November 6, 2024
This is an excellent British police procedural that draws the reader in on the first few pages. I worried that I would be lost since I have a habit of starting a series in the middle, but Ms. Harsay gives enough background information when it's needed. Plus the story could easily be considered a stand-alone. So if you haven't read another of the other books, don't let that stop you from picking up this one. It is thoroughly enjoyable.
I love the character of DCI Shadow. He is a grumpy old git who seems to think the world is out to aggravate him, but he has an extremely sharp investigative mind. And while he acts like his DS, Jimmy Chang drives him to distraction, there is a bond in their relationship that shines through no matter how much Shadow tries to deny it.
All of the investigative details are razor-sharp and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing the outcome. I highly recommend this book and will be looking for others in the series to read.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this review reflects my honest opinion.
I love the character of DCI Shadow. He is a grumpy old git who seems to think the world is out to aggravate him, but he has an extremely sharp investigative mind. And while he acts like his DS, Jimmy Chang drives him to distraction, there is a bond in their relationship that shines through no matter how much Shadow tries to deny it.
All of the investigative details are razor-sharp and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing the outcome. I highly recommend this book and will be looking for others in the series to read.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this review reflects my honest opinion.
October 8, 2024
A Saxon Shadow ~ Chief Inspector Shadow Mystery #8 by H.L. Marsay
Publisher Description
Ancient history or a motive for murder?
This is book 8 in the Chief Inspector Shadow Mysteries series, and I have only read book 7 and this one. I can say that I was kept engaged from beginning to end.
I recommend you dive into a whirlwind of suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists that will get you hooked from the first page, just as I did.
A Saxon Shadow has been written extremely well, the characters seem to jump off the page, and the storyline is well thought out. Hence this carries the reader into the story, so much so that you believe that you are there.
I found these last two books to be amazing and I intend on purchasing the other 6 in this series, where I shall read these all again, and in order:)
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Informative, Original, Page-turner, Realistic, Unpredictable, and Wonderful characters
Publisher Description
Ancient history or a motive for murder?
This is book 8 in the Chief Inspector Shadow Mysteries series, and I have only read book 7 and this one. I can say that I was kept engaged from beginning to end.
I recommend you dive into a whirlwind of suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists that will get you hooked from the first page, just as I did.
A Saxon Shadow has been written extremely well, the characters seem to jump off the page, and the storyline is well thought out. Hence this carries the reader into the story, so much so that you believe that you are there.
I found these last two books to be amazing and I intend on purchasing the other 6 in this series, where I shall read these all again, and in order:)
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Informative, Original, Page-turner, Realistic, Unpredictable, and Wonderful characters
August 25, 2024
This book is set in and around modern York and is the 8th in a series featuring Detective Chief Inspector Shadow. I started with this book and felt as if the only thing that I didn't have a full grasp on was the relationships external to the main crime plot of the book.
It was easy to read, but a bit slow to start. However, once things started happening it was much better paced, and the end came quickly.
I liked all of the regular characters and thought the cast of personalities surrounding the crime was interesting. There were a lot of dynamics and layers for the detective to work through, and I appreciated that complexity.
I would recommend this to any regular mystery reader. If you liked DCI Ryan (LJ Ross), or DI Dixon (Damien Boyd) you will like this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was easy to read, but a bit slow to start. However, once things started happening it was much better paced, and the end came quickly.
I liked all of the regular characters and thought the cast of personalities surrounding the crime was interesting. There were a lot of dynamics and layers for the detective to work through, and I appreciated that complexity.
I would recommend this to any regular mystery reader. If you liked DCI Ryan (LJ Ross), or DI Dixon (Damien Boyd) you will like this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2024
This is the eighth Shadow book I have read and I loved it every bit as much as the first.
In this book, we see Shadow and Jimmy investigate a murder in a seemingly perfect village. The victim is an eccentric businessman with an obsession with Saxon history. Several other strange incidents have taken place in the area and Shadow needs to find out if there is a link to the murder. As always with a Shadow book, there is a great supporting cast of characters, a big dollop of history and enough red herrings to keep you guessing until the end!
In this book, we see Shadow and Jimmy investigate a murder in a seemingly perfect village. The victim is an eccentric businessman with an obsession with Saxon history. Several other strange incidents have taken place in the area and Shadow needs to find out if there is a link to the murder. As always with a Shadow book, there is a great supporting cast of characters, a big dollop of history and enough red herrings to keep you guessing until the end!
October 14, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I've always enjoyed these English village mysteries, and this book is the best one I've read in a long time. I'm only sorry I just discovered Shadow and his sidekick Jimmy, but I've already ordered book number 1 so I can begin enjoying the rest of the series. Shadow is a little bit gruff but shows flashes of humor especially when it comes to his assistants who usually try his patience. I'm sure it goes without saying that I recommend this book wholeheartedly!
October 6, 2024
An entertaining and intriguing read from start to finish. I loved the characters, and the story line was very cleverly written. I kept turning page after page trying desperately to figure out who did what. I absolutely loved that I could never quite figure it out. I look forward to reading more by this author. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 11, 2024
Interesting story line. A couple of burglaries and a murder is a lot for an investigative team. Dealing with all the wealthy and eccentric characters, is bound to cause a headache for them. I know it would for me. I like how real the author's characters feel. The author puts the reader in the middle of the village and the action. Lovely and very entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2024
This was enjoyable and an easy read. I hadn't read any of the earlier books but it didn't make any difference. A spate of burglaries and a murder sees Shadow and his colleague Jimmy tasked with both investigations which ultimately connect.
There was nothing particularly taxing about this and I enjoyed the historical aspects and information throughout. I didn't particularly warm to DI Shadow though. He is quite a brusque character.
I received a copy of this and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
There was nothing particularly taxing about this and I enjoyed the historical aspects and information throughout. I didn't particularly warm to DI Shadow though. He is quite a brusque character.
I received a copy of this and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2024
Chief Inspector Shadow is called to a burglary only to present to investigate a murder in the same town. Clues come in many forms and circulate around an ancient map of a hidden treasure. Everyone seems suspicious. It is up to Shadow to come to the right conclusion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 7, 2024
It is the first of this series that I have read, but I really enjoyed it! I can't wait to go back and read earlier works.
September 21, 2025
4.5 for enjoyment.
Enjoy the characters and humor.
Enjoy the characters and humor.
October 8, 2024
This is book 8 in the Chief Inspector Shadow Mystery series. In my opinion it's one of the best as Chief Inspector Shadow and Jimmy investigate a series of break ins that turns into a murder investigation. Set in old York, the case gets more and more complicated as ancient Saxon antiquities turn up in the graveyard and an old map is declared a fake. Fans of this series will love this book. Enjoy. If you're new to Chief Inspector Shadow I'd recommend reading book 1 to begin.
May 26, 2025
This was my first venture into this particular series, and even though it’s the eighth book, I was quickly drawn in. The quirky nature of Detective Chief Inspector Shadow was introduced and almost immediately I felt a familiarity with him. While the story started off a bit slow, it steadily picked up, evolving into an enjoyable read. It’s a book to curl up with by the fire. Fans of crime and mystery will find it a worthwhile, intriguing read. It won't disappoint.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews