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Marius Quin Mystery #2
The Hurtwood Village Murders: A Marius Quin Mystery, Book 2
A series of threatening letters, a forgotten figure from the past, and a killer out to settle scores…
England 1928. Mystery writer Marius Quin receives alarming news from his sleuthing partner Lady Bella Montague that their childhood friends are in danger. Back in their charming village of Hurtwood, the three Heaton cousins have all been sent identical death threats. When the local constable refuses to help, it’s up to Marius and Bella to stop the would-be killer. But they arrive too late, and Marius finds his former best friend dead in his kitchen with a knife through the heart…
Who in this tightly knit community wants to eliminate the Heaton family? Between shady business practices, fierce competition over the village’s best garden award, and the tragic tale of a soldier who never returned from the war, it’s more a case of who doesn’t? With the clock ticking, can Bella and Marius figure out the mystery before the two remaining cousins meet their fate?
A captivating and warm-hearted 1920s cozy mystery to delight fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss!
England 1928. Mystery writer Marius Quin receives alarming news from his sleuthing partner Lady Bella Montague that their childhood friends are in danger. Back in their charming village of Hurtwood, the three Heaton cousins have all been sent identical death threats. When the local constable refuses to help, it’s up to Marius and Bella to stop the would-be killer. But they arrive too late, and Marius finds his former best friend dead in his kitchen with a knife through the heart…
Who in this tightly knit community wants to eliminate the Heaton family? Between shady business practices, fierce competition over the village’s best garden award, and the tragic tale of a soldier who never returned from the war, it’s more a case of who doesn’t? With the clock ticking, can Bella and Marius figure out the mystery before the two remaining cousins meet their fate?
A captivating and warm-hearted 1920s cozy mystery to delight fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss!
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First published February 22, 2024
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About the author
Benedict Brown
52 books505 followersWriting has always been my passion. It was my favourite hour a week at primary school, and I started on my first, truly abysmal book as a teenager. So it wasn’t a difficult decision to study literature at university which led to an MA in Creative Writing. I spent a long time writing kids’ books, including funny fairy tales, dystopic adventures and serious issue-based YA, before switching to murder mysteries last year.
I grew up in a crime fiction family and spent a long time dreaming up the idea for my detective Izzy Palmer’s debut novel. A Corpse Called Bob is my first full-length book for adults in what is already becoming a long series.
I’m a Welsh-Irish-Englishman originally from South London but now living with my French/Spanish wife and slightly muddled daughter in Burgos, a beautiful city in the north of Spain. I write overlooking the Castilian countryside, trying not to be distracted by the vultures and red kites that fly past my window each day.
I grew up in a crime fiction family and spent a long time dreaming up the idea for my detective Izzy Palmer’s debut novel. A Corpse Called Bob is my first full-length book for adults in what is already becoming a long series.
I’m a Welsh-Irish-Englishman originally from South London but now living with my French/Spanish wife and slightly muddled daughter in Burgos, a beautiful city in the north of Spain. I write overlooking the Castilian countryside, trying not to be distracted by the vultures and red kites that fly past my window each day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
February 22, 2024
It’s 1928 in England. Marius Quinn and Lady Isabella Montague have learned that some of their old friend from Hurtwood village may be in serious danger. The three Heaton cousins have all received notes threatening death. Marius and Quin head home to investigate with the aid of Scotland Yard Inspector Lockwood. But shortly after, they arrive, one of the Heatons is found dead and it’s is a race against the clock to save the others.
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second Marius Quin Mystery and its a fun, entertaining historical cozy mystery with a nice touch of tongue-in-cheek humour running through it. Marius and Bella are extremely likeable protagonists and we learn a great deal more about their backgrounds but I think my favourite character is Percy, Quin’s basset hound. The mystery was interesting and kept me guessing right up to the big reveal near the end. The story ends with a hint of what the next mystery will be for Marius and Bella and I am so here for it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second Marius Quin Mystery and its a fun, entertaining historical cozy mystery with a nice touch of tongue-in-cheek humour running through it. Marius and Bella are extremely likeable protagonists and we learn a great deal more about their backgrounds but I think my favourite character is Percy, Quin’s basset hound. The mystery was interesting and kept me guessing right up to the big reveal near the end. The story ends with a hint of what the next mystery will be for Marius and Bella and I am so here for it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
February 8, 2024
The Hurtwood Village Murder is the second book in A Marius Quinn Mystery series and is a cozy mystery book set in 1928 England. We see the return of Marius and Bella to their home, an odd place where nothing has changed, after a few years away.
In this book we can learn more about our characters background and their family, for example, we get to learn more about Marius father, and we meet Isabella’s father. The banter between our main characters was fantastic and we can follow the clues the author is giving us among the way to solve the case and still be surprised with the end.
This was such a great read, and I recommend it to everyone in a rainy day with a cup of tea since it’s the perfect cozy mystery. The story is well written, and the setting is fantastic, and I can’t wait to read more books in this series.
Thank you, Storm Publishing and NetGalley, for approving me to read this arc and write this review.
In this book we can learn more about our characters background and their family, for example, we get to learn more about Marius father, and we meet Isabella’s father. The banter between our main characters was fantastic and we can follow the clues the author is giving us among the way to solve the case and still be surprised with the end.
This was such a great read, and I recommend it to everyone in a rainy day with a cup of tea since it’s the perfect cozy mystery. The story is well written, and the setting is fantastic, and I can’t wait to read more books in this series.
Thank you, Storm Publishing and NetGalley, for approving me to read this arc and write this review.
March 16, 2024
This is book two in the Marius Quin mystery series, and it has been a very fun series so far! I adore the friendship between Marius and Bella and the will they or won't they get back together dynamic.
The mystery was well paced and intriguing. The characters are entertaining, and I love the humor throughout. I also can't wait to find out more about the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Marius' father. I hope the next book focuses more on that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The mystery was well paced and intriguing. The characters are entertaining, and I love the humor throughout. I also can't wait to find out more about the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Marius' father. I hope the next book focuses more on that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 3, 2024
This second book in the series takes Marius back to his home village of Hurtwood and gives him the opportunity to view it from eyes that have seen the devastation of war as well as life as a published author in cosmopolitan London.
Someone is sending threatening letters to their former classmate Lucinda Heaton, and it turns out her cousins Tilly and James may be in danger as well. But the Heaton family has a shed-load of bad history in Hurtwood and there are plenty of suspects.
Whereas the first book threw us into a murder at a house party and there was little opportunity to get to know Marius and Bella, here we get a chance to learn about their childhood, their first loves, and the dynamics of their current friendship. But we also get the sense of the claustrophobic atmosphere of a village where everyone knows you, knows your family, and it seems as if your entire life is planned out, without much opportunity for change.
The book also has the backdrop of the war that is still fresh in everyone's mind. "I was thinking about the war and everything it had changed. It wasn't just the people who died and the people who loved them, but all those whose lives were interrupted, paused and put on hold."
The murder / mystery here is well-done and densely plotted as layer after layer is peeled off, and it really keeps you guessing until the last moment ... and beyond. And the final pages are a perfect set-up for Marius' start to unraveling the mystery of his father's disappearance. 5 stars and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Someone is sending threatening letters to their former classmate Lucinda Heaton, and it turns out her cousins Tilly and James may be in danger as well. But the Heaton family has a shed-load of bad history in Hurtwood and there are plenty of suspects.
Whereas the first book threw us into a murder at a house party and there was little opportunity to get to know Marius and Bella, here we get a chance to learn about their childhood, their first loves, and the dynamics of their current friendship. But we also get the sense of the claustrophobic atmosphere of a village where everyone knows you, knows your family, and it seems as if your entire life is planned out, without much opportunity for change.
The book also has the backdrop of the war that is still fresh in everyone's mind. "I was thinking about the war and everything it had changed. It wasn't just the people who died and the people who loved them, but all those whose lives were interrupted, paused and put on hold."
The murder / mystery here is well-done and densely plotted as layer after layer is peeled off, and it really keeps you guessing until the last moment ... and beyond. And the final pages are a perfect set-up for Marius' start to unraveling the mystery of his father's disappearance. 5 stars and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2024
Mystery writer Marius Quin receives alarming news from his sleuthing partner Lady Bella Montague that their childhood friends are in danger. Back in their charming village of Hurtwood, the three Heaton cousins have all been sent identical death threats. When the local constable refuses to help, it’s up to Marius and Bella investigate the threats. But they arrive too late, and Marius finds his former best friend dead in his kitchen with a knife through the heart.
The second book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. Another well written cosy mystery with strong characters & an intriguing story. I loved how we learned more about Marius & Bella’s backstories so I felt I was getting to know them, which I didn’t feel in the first book. There are twists & turns in this engrossing murder mystery & my interest was held throughout, a bonus was that I didn’t even guess who the villain was. I look forward to more in the series
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. Another well written cosy mystery with strong characters & an intriguing story. I loved how we learned more about Marius & Bella’s backstories so I felt I was getting to know them, which I didn’t feel in the first book. There are twists & turns in this engrossing murder mystery & my interest was held throughout, a bonus was that I didn’t even guess who the villain was. I look forward to more in the series
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 18, 2024
Another terrific installment in Benedict Brown’s Marius Quin series.
This is such a delightful historical mystery series, showcasing much of what the best of the subgenre has to offer.
Marius makes a terrific protagonist, a sharp, funny, self-deprecating amateur detective reminiscent of the best of golden age mystery sleuths.
The sense of time and place is terrifically well rendered, as are the characters. The story is peppered with all sorts of interesting historical content, and as is always the case with Brown’s work, the historical notes at the end of the book are just as fun to read as the story.
This was a notably well-plotted and solved mystery, particularly when weighed against the average book in this subgenre. Most get the history and strong sense of place right, but many miss on the actual mystery itself. Brown executed both components flawlessly, and I can’t wait to enjoy the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This is such a delightful historical mystery series, showcasing much of what the best of the subgenre has to offer.
Marius makes a terrific protagonist, a sharp, funny, self-deprecating amateur detective reminiscent of the best of golden age mystery sleuths.
The sense of time and place is terrifically well rendered, as are the characters. The story is peppered with all sorts of interesting historical content, and as is always the case with Brown’s work, the historical notes at the end of the book are just as fun to read as the story.
This was a notably well-plotted and solved mystery, particularly when weighed against the average book in this subgenre. Most get the history and strong sense of place right, but many miss on the actual mystery itself. Brown executed both components flawlessly, and I can’t wait to enjoy the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
February 27, 2024
So much to love I don't know where to start.
First off (okay, maybe I do), if you love Christopher from Lord Edgington Investigates, you should love Marius Quinn. They're not much alike and yet they have a very similar appeal--both having strengths and weaknesses that make them endearing.
And if forced to compare Bella to someone, I'd say if Christopher's mother had been a young woman at the time of these books, she'd have been a lot like Bella.
Also... can I just say that I LOVE Bella's father and want to see him and Lord Edgington in the same room? Please, Mr. Brown. I beg you!
The plot is full of twists and turns, and you can tell that Brown allowed himself to have a blast writing it. He's playing with a few different things in here, and in my opinion, they work really well.
Best of all, I figured out who and why early on but with a daring "how," I 100% decided I was all wrong and went in another direction entirely. Absolutely and fully rejected the right plot because I couldn't make that how work at all. Of course, once I saw it. So simple. So clear. So... brilliantly done.
My only problem with Brown's books is that they don't come out fast enough on audio. In other words, I'm Oliver Twist begging for more, but trust me... these stories are far more delicious than the gruel you'll find in Mr. Bumble's establishment. More satisfying, too. No... that doesn't make sense. Then again, should it? I believe I'm book drunk, so... there's that.
Now to drum my fingers until the next one releases. *Theme from Jeopardy begins...
First off (okay, maybe I do), if you love Christopher from Lord Edgington Investigates, you should love Marius Quinn. They're not much alike and yet they have a very similar appeal--both having strengths and weaknesses that make them endearing.
And if forced to compare Bella to someone, I'd say if Christopher's mother had been a young woman at the time of these books, she'd have been a lot like Bella.
Also... can I just say that I LOVE Bella's father and want to see him and Lord Edgington in the same room? Please, Mr. Brown. I beg you!
The plot is full of twists and turns, and you can tell that Brown allowed himself to have a blast writing it. He's playing with a few different things in here, and in my opinion, they work really well.
Best of all, I figured out who and why early on but with a daring "how," I 100% decided I was all wrong and went in another direction entirely. Absolutely and fully rejected the right plot because I couldn't make that how work at all. Of course, once I saw it. So simple. So clear. So... brilliantly done.
My only problem with Brown's books is that they don't come out fast enough on audio. In other words, I'm Oliver Twist begging for more, but trust me... these stories are far more delicious than the gruel you'll find in Mr. Bumble's establishment. More satisfying, too. No... that doesn't make sense. Then again, should it? I believe I'm book drunk, so... there's that.
Now to drum my fingers until the next one releases. *Theme from Jeopardy begins...
March 22, 2025
A decent, if rather sad, whodunnit, this discusses murder in the hometown of the protagonist and involving his childhood friends.
There is good character development for the protagonist and his sidekick/former sweetheart. And the suspects are a believable set of characters.
The setting is well-described and provides a solid sense of place for the story.
And the plot, while certainly not groundbreaking, is entirely serviceable. Given the number of mysteries that have been written in the last couple of centuries, there's nothing wrong with that.
This isn't a bad mystery, though the writing is a bit uneven. I would normally continue to read the series. But since the author is at some pains to explain why nothing good ever came out of "America", I think I'm done. I have no need to support a bigot.
There is good character development for the protagonist and his sidekick/former sweetheart. And the suspects are a believable set of characters.
The setting is well-described and provides a solid sense of place for the story.
And the plot, while certainly not groundbreaking, is entirely serviceable. Given the number of mysteries that have been written in the last couple of centuries, there's nothing wrong with that.
This isn't a bad mystery, though the writing is a bit uneven. I would normally continue to read the series. But since the author is at some pains to explain why nothing good ever came out of "America", I think I'm done. I have no need to support a bigot.
February 8, 2024
I actually enjoyed this novel more than its predecessor, and it’s rare for me — to prefer sequels. I did like the small town atmosphere very much, as well as the close cast of characters. They have a history together and I enjoyed knowing more about it. Marius is still a pleasant main character, and though I’m not the biggest fan of Bella, she’s fine. The mystery itself was well-constructed and its ending was especially satisfying — it ended the way I wanted.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
February 23, 2024
A Stellar read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Hurtwood Village Murders may very well be one of the best mysteries I've had the privilege to read! Our favourite characters are back in good form with Marius having matured greatly with regard to Bella - that was refreshing ! Even the minor characters and beloved Percy are more charming! Marius travels back to his home village -- but home is only a magical place from afar --you truly can't go home again because the warts are still there! Benedict surpasses himself in this exceptionally convoluted mystery! The guilty light shines on many characters and trust me it's hard to guess the truly guilty party because just as you do the plot takes another turn and the light shines elsewhere! Remarkable writing!
I enjoyed this book immensely and highly recommend it. There is humour galore which serves to cut the tension and I laughed ..........there is a very touching moment between Marius and his mother which brought tears. Most exceptional book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Hurtwood Village Murders may very well be one of the best mysteries I've had the privilege to read! Our favourite characters are back in good form with Marius having matured greatly with regard to Bella - that was refreshing ! Even the minor characters and beloved Percy are more charming! Marius travels back to his home village -- but home is only a magical place from afar --you truly can't go home again because the warts are still there! Benedict surpasses himself in this exceptionally convoluted mystery! The guilty light shines on many characters and trust me it's hard to guess the truly guilty party because just as you do the plot takes another turn and the light shines elsewhere! Remarkable writing!
I enjoyed this book immensely and highly recommend it. There is humour galore which serves to cut the tension and I laughed ..........there is a very touching moment between Marius and his mother which brought tears. Most exceptional book!
April 4, 2024
"Bella looked surprised by his comment. “What happened since the last time we met you? You were as fresh-faced and innocent as a daffodil. Have a few months at Scotland Yard turned you into an old cynic?”
November 18, 2024
3.5 stars. I really enjoyed reading this book. I like the style of this author's writing. He introduces the killer right at the beginning of the book. So, it gives the reader time to figure out who they think the killer is and if they are right.
September 23, 2024
Story: 4 stars
Audio: 5 stars
Audio: 5 stars
November 9, 2024
This is a favorite series of mine!
August 19, 2025
Story didn't capture me like the first one but was still very good.
February 5, 2024
As I started this, I remembered that I had unsuccessfully tried to enjoy the previous book in the series, and my heart wilted a little. The Hurtwood Village Murders by Benedict Brown is written well enough and the plot is fine, but I just can't engage with the characters. In fact, the whole lot of them irk me!
June 17, 2025
I'm really glad I decided to continue this series after the kinda meh first entry! I didn't hate it, but I also didn't really like any of the characters, which I think is really important to this type of book... I liked Marius in the first book he appeared in though (A Killer In The Wings) and I recalled how the first few books in the Lord Edgington series didn't really grab me either, so I decided to just keep going.
I'm happy to say this 2nd book in the Marius spinoff series was much better than the first! I think there are several reasons for this:
1. In the first book, Marius and Bella were super awkward together because of their messy romantic history; however, that's basically resolved. Essentially, Marius accepted that it's better to have Bella in his life as his good friend rather than not at all, and this gets rid of a lot of the tension and angst that was so annoying in the first book. This instantly made both of them much more likable characters to me. Also, they randomly decide to form a detective agency together, which is weird but whatever I guess!
2. Rather than another boring manor house murder in a blizzard (Benedict Brown clearly just LOVES this classic setting, but for me, it's VERY dependent on me actually liking the cast of characters who are trapped together... if I don't WANT to see their unique interactions, then it just feels very generic), this is a small-town murder with a cast of childhood friends! It's a great way to learn a lot more about our two main characters by having the mystery involve their personal history, families, and hometown.
3. Similar to Lord E's review of the play in "A Killer In the Wings", in this book there are a few fun little interludes where instead of Marius' point of view, instead you get to read a sort of short story written by another character about the situation which gives the reader a different perspective and also some information that Marius wouldn't have.
4. I wouldn't say the cast of side characters are really likable this time around either, but they are certainly much more interesting than in the first book! And we see much more of both Marius and Bella's family members, who are characters that I did like a lot.
5. Percy the basset hound is actually useful in this book! It's not that I really expect the dog side characters to do a lot, but it does seem very wasteful to have along a dog whose entire reason to exist is to track smells, and then never use that ability for anything. At least in this book Percy gets to sniff out a murder victim! I think the author should take advantage of this skill more often, especially as it gives the main character an excuse for discovering bodies, and thus getting involved in cases.
I'm happy to say this 2nd book in the Marius spinoff series was much better than the first! I think there are several reasons for this:
1. In the first book, Marius and Bella were super awkward together because of their messy romantic history; however, that's basically resolved. Essentially, Marius accepted that it's better to have Bella in his life as his good friend rather than not at all, and this gets rid of a lot of the tension and angst that was so annoying in the first book. This instantly made both of them much more likable characters to me. Also, they randomly decide to form a detective agency together, which is weird but whatever I guess!
2. Rather than another boring manor house murder in a blizzard (Benedict Brown clearly just LOVES this classic setting, but for me, it's VERY dependent on me actually liking the cast of characters who are trapped together... if I don't WANT to see their unique interactions, then it just feels very generic), this is a small-town murder with a cast of childhood friends! It's a great way to learn a lot more about our two main characters by having the mystery involve their personal history, families, and hometown.
3. Similar to Lord E's review of the play in "A Killer In the Wings", in this book there are a few fun little interludes where instead of Marius' point of view, instead you get to read a sort of short story written by another character about the situation which gives the reader a different perspective and also some information that Marius wouldn't have.
4. I wouldn't say the cast of side characters are really likable this time around either, but they are certainly much more interesting than in the first book! And we see much more of both Marius and Bella's family members, who are characters that I did like a lot.
5. Percy the basset hound is actually useful in this book! It's not that I really expect the dog side characters to do a lot, but it does seem very wasteful to have along a dog whose entire reason to exist is to track smells, and then never use that ability for anything. At least in this book Percy gets to sniff out a murder victim! I think the author should take advantage of this skill more often, especially as it gives the main character an excuse for discovering bodies, and thus getting involved in cases.
July 8, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second book in Benedict Brown's Marius Quin historical cozy series. Released 22nd Feb 2024, it's 294 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The two other volumes in the series are also currently available on KU.
This is such a quirky fun cozy read. The characters are very well rendered, with witty dialogue and sparkling repartee and the author does a good job of the closed suspect pool mystery format. Oddball pair Marius and Lady Bella are back on the case when they arrive too late to save Marius' friend, and join forces with Inspector Lockwood, and Marius' intrepid hound Percy, to uncover the killer before more deaths occur.
Really humorous, well written, eminently readable. Pure golden age classic fun. Fans of Sayers, Allingham, and the others will likely find much to enjoy here.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 8 hours 28 minutes and is capably narrated by George Blagden. He has a classically trained, nuanced tenor voice and manages the varied accents without a stumble. His reading is pleasant to listen to an neutral enough not to be annoying or intrusive.Sound and production quality are high throughout the read.
There are three books extant in the ongoing series. It would make an excellent series binge/buddy read.
Four and a half stars. Well written and eminently entertaining. Highly recommended for fans of classic golden age British cozy crime with a definite dollop of P.G. Wodehouse at his irreverent best in the mix.
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second book in Benedict Brown's Marius Quin historical cozy series. Released 22nd Feb 2024, it's 294 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The two other volumes in the series are also currently available on KU.
This is such a quirky fun cozy read. The characters are very well rendered, with witty dialogue and sparkling repartee and the author does a good job of the closed suspect pool mystery format. Oddball pair Marius and Lady Bella are back on the case when they arrive too late to save Marius' friend, and join forces with Inspector Lockwood, and Marius' intrepid hound Percy, to uncover the killer before more deaths occur.
Really humorous, well written, eminently readable. Pure golden age classic fun. Fans of Sayers, Allingham, and the others will likely find much to enjoy here.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 8 hours 28 minutes and is capably narrated by George Blagden. He has a classically trained, nuanced tenor voice and manages the varied accents without a stumble. His reading is pleasant to listen to an neutral enough not to be annoying or intrusive.Sound and production quality are high throughout the read.
There are three books extant in the ongoing series. It would make an excellent series binge/buddy read.
Four and a half stars. Well written and eminently entertaining. Highly recommended for fans of classic golden age British cozy crime with a definite dollop of P.G. Wodehouse at his irreverent best in the mix.
February 22, 2024
Lady Isabella Montague asks Marius to join her for lunch. Before she has a chance to explain, her boyfriend, Gilbert Baines, joined them. Gilbert wanted to talk about setting up a detective agency, but Marius only wants any sleuthing to be casual. Bella had something to say, but had not had time to speak before Gilbert showed up. Bella has heard that an old school friend, Lucinda Heaton, and her cousin, Tilly, had received poison-pen letters. The strangest part is that the letters were sent from many different places around England. The idea of Lucinda receiving the letters was a surprise, as she has always been well-liked in the village. Marius is nervous about returning to Hurtwood, as he has not been back since he left to fight in the war, 10 years earllier.
One of the things about the poison-pen letters was the mention of 1917. That was the year that Marius and Sebastian Haig had been called up for the war. Unfortunately, Sebastian was killed the following year. Sebastian had been attracted to Dorothy and Tilly, but never received anything in return. Initially only Lucinda and Tilly received the letters, but when James is found dead, two letters appear to have been delivered to him, as well.
Who killed James? Is Sebastian really dead? Who is sending the letters? How are they coming from so many different places? Can Marius and Bella protect Tilly and Lucinda? Can Marius and Bella unravel the mystery?
Benedict Brown has created another fantastic series with his Marius Quin Mysteries. He has wonderful characters and situations that readers can easily relate to. I am anxiously looking forward to more books in this series.
One of the things about the poison-pen letters was the mention of 1917. That was the year that Marius and Sebastian Haig had been called up for the war. Unfortunately, Sebastian was killed the following year. Sebastian had been attracted to Dorothy and Tilly, but never received anything in return. Initially only Lucinda and Tilly received the letters, but when James is found dead, two letters appear to have been delivered to him, as well.
Who killed James? Is Sebastian really dead? Who is sending the letters? How are they coming from so many different places? Can Marius and Bella protect Tilly and Lucinda? Can Marius and Bella unravel the mystery?
Benedict Brown has created another fantastic series with his Marius Quin Mysteries. He has wonderful characters and situations that readers can easily relate to. I am anxiously looking forward to more books in this series.
July 7, 2024
I read the first of the series a little while earlier and have since subscribed to the author’s newsletter. It is a charming mix of personal and professional(regarding previous books and future ones)
I have realised I like his writing style and this does influence my reviews.
This is the sequel that provides a wider look at our lead protagonist’s background and his intentions regarding his detecting skills. Since I heard the first book in audio format, the voices and style of the narration followed the same way. That too might have influenced my reading experience.
Almost a long time ago, the author had a close name of friends who hung out together now because of proximity rather than similarity in thought. There were issues of the heart that were present a little in the background of an almost care free life until war happened upon them. Now, three members of the same family within that group have received death threats. What follows is a steady investigation littered with random asides, the bigger reason why I enjoy such tales.
I will not go into spoiler territory,but the ending took me by surprise while simultaneously not being unbelievable, a very enjoyable mix.
I highly recommend this series and the author to fans of the mystery plus humour combination.
The author’s historical notes at the end were quite interesting as well. I was quite impressed by the amount of research required if one wants to get all their facts right.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the reviews are entirely based on my reading of this and the author’s newsletters.
I have realised I like his writing style and this does influence my reviews.
This is the sequel that provides a wider look at our lead protagonist’s background and his intentions regarding his detecting skills. Since I heard the first book in audio format, the voices and style of the narration followed the same way. That too might have influenced my reading experience.
Almost a long time ago, the author had a close name of friends who hung out together now because of proximity rather than similarity in thought. There were issues of the heart that were present a little in the background of an almost care free life until war happened upon them. Now, three members of the same family within that group have received death threats. What follows is a steady investigation littered with random asides, the bigger reason why I enjoy such tales.
I will not go into spoiler territory,but the ending took me by surprise while simultaneously not being unbelievable, a very enjoyable mix.
I highly recommend this series and the author to fans of the mystery plus humour combination.
The author’s historical notes at the end were quite interesting as well. I was quite impressed by the amount of research required if one wants to get all their facts right.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the reviews are entirely based on my reading of this and the author’s newsletters.
February 22, 2024
I thank NetGalley and Severn House for an advance reader copy of The Hurtwood Village Murders. All opinions and comments are my own.
Mystery novelist Marius Quin is right in the thick of a mystery in this, his second outing (Murder at Everham Hall being the first). Who’s got it in for bright and beautiful Lucinda Heaton? The poison pen letters have been sent to others, too. And somebody dies. He’s gained some confidence, has our boy Marius, and with good friend Lady Isabella Montague by his side, the trek to find a determined killer amongst the denizens of Hurtwood proves no obstacle -- more or less. Marius is no Sherlock Holmes.
Which is just as well, for author Benedict Brown has given us a three-dimensional albeit fictional fellow that’s a delight to keep up with as he follows a trail of muddled clues and murky evidence, eventually putting them all together, thankyouverymuch. Mr. Brown has a gift for description and exposition, employing flashbacks to 1917 to set the scene for “present-day” (the book is set in 1928) happenings. And when the truth all comes out, ah ha, how very, very modern it will seem, for people haven’t changed all that much, have they?
Our ending finds Marius settled, or so he thinks. For he receives a challenge that fans of the books should find intriguing, including myself. The Hurtwood Village Murders will capture your attention and keep you reading until the final pages.
On an ending note, Benedict Brown includes an “About This Book,” which has interesting bits about the historical research involved and notes about book themes, characters, facts and other thoughts about the writing process. Always fun to read.
Mystery novelist Marius Quin is right in the thick of a mystery in this, his second outing (Murder at Everham Hall being the first). Who’s got it in for bright and beautiful Lucinda Heaton? The poison pen letters have been sent to others, too. And somebody dies. He’s gained some confidence, has our boy Marius, and with good friend Lady Isabella Montague by his side, the trek to find a determined killer amongst the denizens of Hurtwood proves no obstacle -- more or less. Marius is no Sherlock Holmes.
Which is just as well, for author Benedict Brown has given us a three-dimensional albeit fictional fellow that’s a delight to keep up with as he follows a trail of muddled clues and murky evidence, eventually putting them all together, thankyouverymuch. Mr. Brown has a gift for description and exposition, employing flashbacks to 1917 to set the scene for “present-day” (the book is set in 1928) happenings. And when the truth all comes out, ah ha, how very, very modern it will seem, for people haven’t changed all that much, have they?
Our ending finds Marius settled, or so he thinks. For he receives a challenge that fans of the books should find intriguing, including myself. The Hurtwood Village Murders will capture your attention and keep you reading until the final pages.
On an ending note, Benedict Brown includes an “About This Book,” which has interesting bits about the historical research involved and notes about book themes, characters, facts and other thoughts about the writing process. Always fun to read.
February 24, 2024
Everyone in the village of Hurtwood loves Lucinda Heaton, despite her family’s reprehensible past, so who is sending her poison-pen letters threatening her life? After their success in solving the murder of an actor on New Year’s Eve, that’s what crime author Marius Quin and his childhood sweetheart and now friend and partner-in-crime Lady Isabella “Bella” Montague intend to figure out. However, Marius hasn’t been back in Hurtwood in ten years, since he left to fight the war in Europe and his father’s disappearance. Most of his childhood friends welcome him back warmly, some less than others, including his former best friend, James Heaton, who, as his cousin Lucinda and his sister Tilly, has received the threatening letters and who is then found stabbed in his own kitchen. With Lucinda and Tilly’s lives in danger, Marius and Bella need to find the killer quickly. Is the killer someone in the village, someone who they’ve known their whole life, or is an outsider?
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second book in the Marius Quin Mystery series and I had so much fun reading it that I am already looking forward to the next one. Bella and Marius are a brilliant duo of detectives. Coming from different backgrounds, she is the daughter of a duke, he is the son of the local lawyer, Marius and Bella were first childhood friends, then they fell in love, but they broke things off when he left for the war. Now they have found each other again, close friends and occasional detectives, solving crimes full of suspects and surprises.
Witty, engaging, immersive, and well-written and with a picturesque village as the setting of a murder, The Hurtwood Village Murders is the perfect cozy mystery to keep you quite entertained for a few hours. Highly recommended!
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second book in the Marius Quin Mystery series and I had so much fun reading it that I am already looking forward to the next one. Bella and Marius are a brilliant duo of detectives. Coming from different backgrounds, she is the daughter of a duke, he is the son of the local lawyer, Marius and Bella were first childhood friends, then they fell in love, but they broke things off when he left for the war. Now they have found each other again, close friends and occasional detectives, solving crimes full of suspects and surprises.
Witty, engaging, immersive, and well-written and with a picturesque village as the setting of a murder, The Hurtwood Village Murders is the perfect cozy mystery to keep you quite entertained for a few hours. Highly recommended!
March 27, 2024
Old fashioned classic mystery, friendly and fun although a bit of a challenge to read in audiobook form. Lots of characters to keep track of, and more than one occasion where something important is left unsaid (leading me to think it was me getting distracted, and rewinding to listen again).
This is the second in the Marius Quin series. It was interesting finishing it right after reading The Warm Hands of Ghosts, which is set during WW1; this one is set in 1928 and Marius is a veteran of that war. Ghosts dives deep into the horrors of the war; here, it's just a minor plot point and character backstory. Although it's book 2, it seems to stand alone just fine, and as far as I could tell it doesn't spoil anything from book 1.
Marius and his partner Bella visit the place where they grew up, where some of their childhood friends still live. Said friends have been getting poison pen letters, and after a while the first of them is murdered. It's a twisty plot and I didn't see the solution coming.
One of my favorite things about the Benedict Brown books is the author note at the end, where he talks about the inspiration for the story and the research he did and interesting things he learned that didn't make it into the story. Not all his books have a note, at least not in the audio version, but this one does.
This is the second in the Marius Quin series. It was interesting finishing it right after reading The Warm Hands of Ghosts, which is set during WW1; this one is set in 1928 and Marius is a veteran of that war. Ghosts dives deep into the horrors of the war; here, it's just a minor plot point and character backstory. Although it's book 2, it seems to stand alone just fine, and as far as I could tell it doesn't spoil anything from book 1.
Marius and his partner Bella visit the place where they grew up, where some of their childhood friends still live. Said friends have been getting poison pen letters, and after a while the first of them is murdered. It's a twisty plot and I didn't see the solution coming.
One of my favorite things about the Benedict Brown books is the author note at the end, where he talks about the inspiration for the story and the research he did and interesting things he learned that didn't make it into the story. Not all his books have a note, at least not in the audio version, but this one does.
April 15, 2024
I requested this book on NetGalley, as I was really drawn to the cover design and description. I typically like historical mysteries with settings such as countryside cottages and manor houses.
This is a cosy mystery set in 1920's England. It is the second book featuring Marius Quin as a protagonist. I haven't read the previous book, and there were some references to prior events. I think I would have liked to read the previous book, if only to know some of the characters a little better, but I still enjoyed this one.
Marius Quin is a writer, and I appreciated that quality, because I felt he was a very good storyteller. He narrated and expressed himself in a way that enabled me to relate to him, and I found myself smiling at some of his behaviours and thought processes; for example, making tea to help another character feel better. I found that his narration also brought the other characters to life for me, as he described them in a way that helped me to picture them.
I thought Marius was a warm, kind-hearted character, and I was surprised at how connected I felt to the characters. One of the murder victims was quite an unlikeable character, but something about Marius' attitude made me feel sorry that this character died. There was also a particular friend of Marius, named Tilly, that I identified with and found endearing.
I think I would like to read something else by this author. If you like cosy mysteries set in the 1920's, this series may appeal to you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
This is a cosy mystery set in 1920's England. It is the second book featuring Marius Quin as a protagonist. I haven't read the previous book, and there were some references to prior events. I think I would have liked to read the previous book, if only to know some of the characters a little better, but I still enjoyed this one.
Marius Quin is a writer, and I appreciated that quality, because I felt he was a very good storyteller. He narrated and expressed himself in a way that enabled me to relate to him, and I found myself smiling at some of his behaviours and thought processes; for example, making tea to help another character feel better. I found that his narration also brought the other characters to life for me, as he described them in a way that helped me to picture them.
I thought Marius was a warm, kind-hearted character, and I was surprised at how connected I felt to the characters. One of the murder victims was quite an unlikeable character, but something about Marius' attitude made me feel sorry that this character died. There was also a particular friend of Marius, named Tilly, that I identified with and found endearing.
I think I would like to read something else by this author. If you like cosy mysteries set in the 1920's, this series may appeal to you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
July 24, 2024
The Hurtwood Village Murders is the second book in Benedict Brown’s Marius Quin mystery series. And as much as I enjoyed the first book, this one is even better! It combines the cleverest of mysteries with the most engaging characters to deliver one of the best British cozies I have had the pleasure of reading.
Marius Quin, along with his friend and helpmate, Lady Bella Montague, return to his hometown, Hurtwood Village when they learn that one of their childhood friends, Lucinda Heaton, may be in danger. It turns out that all three Heaton cousins have received notes containing death threats. Marious and Bella have barely arrived when the death threat turns into reality for one of the cousins. The local police, whether inept or uncaring, are not up to the task, so Marius and Bella team up to solve the mystery.
What a good book! The mystery is complex and multi-layered, and I really appreciate the way Marius’ history is woven into it. The relationship between Marius and Bella, too, holds some intrigue. As the mystery draws them in, we learn more about their past lives and past loves. As the story progresses, a subplot involving Marius’ father’s disappearance become prominent. And the last chapter! There is a surprising revelation and a breathtaking cliffhanger that leave me eagerly awaiting the next installment.
The Hurtwood Village Murders is an exceptionally strong entry in this series. I highly recommend you start with the first book to get to know the characters and then continue with this delightful British cozy.
Marius Quin, along with his friend and helpmate, Lady Bella Montague, return to his hometown, Hurtwood Village when they learn that one of their childhood friends, Lucinda Heaton, may be in danger. It turns out that all three Heaton cousins have received notes containing death threats. Marious and Bella have barely arrived when the death threat turns into reality for one of the cousins. The local police, whether inept or uncaring, are not up to the task, so Marius and Bella team up to solve the mystery.
What a good book! The mystery is complex and multi-layered, and I really appreciate the way Marius’ history is woven into it. The relationship between Marius and Bella, too, holds some intrigue. As the mystery draws them in, we learn more about their past lives and past loves. As the story progresses, a subplot involving Marius’ father’s disappearance become prominent. And the last chapter! There is a surprising revelation and a breathtaking cliffhanger that leave me eagerly awaiting the next installment.
The Hurtwood Village Murders is an exceptionally strong entry in this series. I highly recommend you start with the first book to get to know the characters and then continue with this delightful British cozy.
January 20, 2024
ARC for review. To be published February 22, 2024.
The second in Brown’s new Marius Quin mystery series. One needn’t have read the first one to enjoy this one, but you would certainly be missing out if you didn’t, because it is delightful!
The year is 1928 and Marius is meeting with his friendly editor about his newly finished book before taking a trip to his hometown, Hurtwood, with his old friend/former paramour Lady Isabella Montague. Their old friend Lucinda Heston is receiving threatening letters and the newly formed detecting duo bow to help her get to the bottom of what is going on. They then discover another friend and Lucinda’s cousin, Tilly, is also receiving letters. Then, tragedy strikes. What is going on in this small village?
Excellent second book in the series. First, I was quite glad that Isabella’s odious fiancé makes only a short appearance. Next, we meet Isabella’s wonderful father, a great character whom I hope we meet more often. Then, the mystery regarding Marius’s father deepens. We discover that he simply went missing one day while Marius was off at war, with no explanation. Definitely something going on there! And all that is separate from the mystery at issue in this case. Very much enjoyed this and I’m looking forward to seeing where Marius and Isabella go next. But more dog, please! And more of his full name!
The second in Brown’s new Marius Quin mystery series. One needn’t have read the first one to enjoy this one, but you would certainly be missing out if you didn’t, because it is delightful!
The year is 1928 and Marius is meeting with his friendly editor about his newly finished book before taking a trip to his hometown, Hurtwood, with his old friend/former paramour Lady Isabella Montague. Their old friend Lucinda Heston is receiving threatening letters and the newly formed detecting duo bow to help her get to the bottom of what is going on. They then discover another friend and Lucinda’s cousin, Tilly, is also receiving letters. Then, tragedy strikes. What is going on in this small village?
Excellent second book in the series. First, I was quite glad that Isabella’s odious fiancé makes only a short appearance. Next, we meet Isabella’s wonderful father, a great character whom I hope we meet more often. Then, the mystery regarding Marius’s father deepens. We discover that he simply went missing one day while Marius was off at war, with no explanation. Definitely something going on there! And all that is separate from the mystery at issue in this case. Very much enjoyed this and I’m looking forward to seeing where Marius and Isabella go next. But more dog, please! And more of his full name!
October 13, 2024
Another solid mystery in the series. Marius doesn't take himself too seriously, while at the same time knowing he -- along with his friend Bella -- do seem to be able to get to the bottom of things the police might not otherwise. In this case, Bella asks him to come back to their old village of Hurtwood as one of their old gang from school has gotten an apparently threatening letter. The police seemed disinclined to treat it as anything but a joke, but Bella has a feeling there's more going on.
Being back has a bunch of memories for Marius, both good and ... complicated. There are the old school friends, of course, as well as a lot of other village fixtures in the pub, post office, etc. And they quickly find it's not just the one friend who got A letter. Turns out she got several others as well, as did her two cousins. Who, it turns out, are members of a village family generally not well liked on account of their fathers' and grandfather's behaviors.
So there are a lot of motives, but is it a serious threat? When one of the cousins is murdered, it becomes serious -- and somehow all mixed up with the year 1917 during their last year of school. All in all, it's well put together and the solution makes sense. And Bella and Marius are people you don't mind spending time with even as you wonder if their youthful mutual crush will redevelop.
Being back has a bunch of memories for Marius, both good and ... complicated. There are the old school friends, of course, as well as a lot of other village fixtures in the pub, post office, etc. And they quickly find it's not just the one friend who got A letter. Turns out she got several others as well, as did her two cousins. Who, it turns out, are members of a village family generally not well liked on account of their fathers' and grandfather's behaviors.
So there are a lot of motives, but is it a serious threat? When one of the cousins is murdered, it becomes serious -- and somehow all mixed up with the year 1917 during their last year of school. All in all, it's well put together and the solution makes sense. And Bella and Marius are people you don't mind spending time with even as you wonder if their youthful mutual crush will redevelop.
June 14, 2025
This was a step up from the previous book and a very enjoyable mystery. Marius is called back to his childhood village when three of his friends receive threatening letters - and it isn't long before the bodies start to mount up.
Marius is still a bit of a pompous ass at times, but he is a far more engaging character this time around. Delving into his past, the Great War, the mystery of his father etc, certainly helped that, gave him layers and depth that he had been missing.
The mystery itself is a great one too, a small English village where everyone knows everyone and all the secrets and passions are just bubbling away under the surface. The characters were more interesting this time round too and I'm glad we only had a scene or two with 'Gilly'. I agree with Marius, no idea what she sees in him.
As always, the dog is a delight to include, and he actually helps this time, while still retaining his lazy, brilliant nature.
There was one part, right at the reveal, where (without using spoilers) Marius tricks someone but its never explained how that was supposed to work. Which was a little annoying, how did they get there, how did they explain it, how did they set it up etc. That minor gripe aside, this was fun, it laid the groundwork for the next books expertly and I'm looking forward to seeing where Marius goes next.
Marius is still a bit of a pompous ass at times, but he is a far more engaging character this time around. Delving into his past, the Great War, the mystery of his father etc, certainly helped that, gave him layers and depth that he had been missing.
The mystery itself is a great one too, a small English village where everyone knows everyone and all the secrets and passions are just bubbling away under the surface. The characters were more interesting this time round too and I'm glad we only had a scene or two with 'Gilly'. I agree with Marius, no idea what she sees in him.
As always, the dog is a delight to include, and he actually helps this time, while still retaining his lazy, brilliant nature.
There was one part, right at the reveal, where (without using spoilers) Marius tricks someone but its never explained how that was supposed to work. Which was a little annoying, how did they get there, how did they explain it, how did they set it up etc. That minor gripe aside, this was fun, it laid the groundwork for the next books expertly and I'm looking forward to seeing where Marius goes next.
February 7, 2024
The Hurtwood Village Murders is a cozy little mystery set in 1928 England, where Marius Quin and his dear friend Lady Bella Montague try to solve the muster of who wants their childhood friends dead.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out who the culprit was.. I hadn’t predicted it would be that person at all, at any point in the journey.
Brown does a fantastic job of subtly laying out the groundwork so it’s not obvious but it makes sense once you get the reveal. I also really enjoyed the sweet, if not a little complicated, relationship between Quin and Lady Bella.
What didn’t work for me: I felt like there were just too many characters for me to keep track of. It’s almost as if Brown introduced every single last person in Hurtwood Village and I had a hard time keeping up. I also found most of them to be less than enjoyable. There was also a lot of time dedicated to building the world of the village and I found it took me a long time to get into the book because of it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book
I was pleasantly surprised to find out who the culprit was.. I hadn’t predicted it would be that person at all, at any point in the journey.
Brown does a fantastic job of subtly laying out the groundwork so it’s not obvious but it makes sense once you get the reveal. I also really enjoyed the sweet, if not a little complicated, relationship between Quin and Lady Bella.
What didn’t work for me: I felt like there were just too many characters for me to keep track of. It’s almost as if Brown introduced every single last person in Hurtwood Village and I had a hard time keeping up. I also found most of them to be less than enjoyable. There was also a lot of time dedicated to building the world of the village and I found it took me a long time to get into the book because of it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book
April 2, 2025
An interesting story taking Marius back to the home of his childhood. He and Lady Isabella Marchmont have decided to form a detective partnership. They go back to Hurtswood village to investigate some poison pen letters, threatening death, that some of their old school chums have received. Marius hasn’t been back since he left to go to war and that was ten years back, but things look more or less the same and his friends, mostly, welcome him back. This is Bella’s home too. Her ailing father, the Duke, and his wife live in the Manor House.
It’s not long before Marius comes across a body and he and Bella decide to ask Detective Inspector Lovebrook to come to the village and help, if possible.
To work out the puzzle Marius and Bella must remember the friends last year together before Marius was called up, 1917, because the letters keep mentioning that year. It’s hard for them to think one of their group may be a murderer.
Marius and Bella work really well together. She is, of course, the girl he loved and left in 1917. This is the 2nd of the Marius Quin books and I’m finding I really love the characters and the settings. Looking forward to book 3.
It’s not long before Marius comes across a body and he and Bella decide to ask Detective Inspector Lovebrook to come to the village and help, if possible.
To work out the puzzle Marius and Bella must remember the friends last year together before Marius was called up, 1917, because the letters keep mentioning that year. It’s hard for them to think one of their group may be a murderer.
Marius and Bella work really well together. She is, of course, the girl he loved and left in 1917. This is the 2nd of the Marius Quin books and I’m finding I really love the characters and the settings. Looking forward to book 3.
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