An Ambush of Tigers

by Sarah Yarwood-Lovett

The BRAND NEW instalment in the bestselling Dr Nell Ward mystery murder series - for fans of Richard Osman, Robert Thorogood and Janice Hallett!

At Finchmere, beneath the snow, an ambush lies in wait...

After a dazzling Indian wedding, Nell and Rav return to a frost-kissed Finchmere, eager to host their blessing in the woodland Nell loves best. But, as their nearest and dearest gather, someone is setting a deadly snare.

The country estate is in its winter finery, with new artisans creating crafts for the Festive Finchmere Christmas Market. Before the celebrations unfold, a shocking secret is revealed, which shows how their families were fatally intertwined, centuries before Nell and Rav said, 'I do.'

As their newlywed bliss unravels, some of their party are poisoned - and Rav is forced to face the risk of losing those he loves. While Nell wrestles with her own family history, the tragedies in Rav's sow seeds of doubt as she hunts down the murderer.

But Nell cannot expose the truth that will save Rav, his family, and their relationship without evidence.
Using all her ecological skills - and all her nerve - Nell must set a dangerous trap for the most cold-blooded killer she's encountered yet.

With the predator poised to pounce, can Nell lure them out of hiding before someone else she loves becomes their prey?

Genres: Mystery, Murder Mystery

365 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 9, 2025

About the author

After spending sixteen years as an ecologist, crawling through undergrowth and studying nocturnal habits of animals (and people), Dr Sarah Yarwood-Lovett naturally turned her mind to murder. She may have swapped badgers for bears when she emigrated from a quaint village in the South Downs to the wild mountains of the Pacific Northwest, but her books remain firmly rooted in the rolling downland she grew up in.

Forensically studying clues for animal activity has seen Sarah surveying sites all over the UK and around the world. She’s re-discovered a British species thought to be extinct during her PhD, with her record held in London’s Natural History Museum; debated that important question – do bats wee on their faces? – at school workshops; survived a hurricane on a coral atoll whilst scuba diving to conduct marine surveys; and given evidence as an expert witness.

Along the way, she’s discovered a noose in an abandoned warehouse and had a survey de-railed by the bomb squad. Her unusual career has provided the perfect inspiration for a series of murder mysteries with an ecological twist – so, these days, Sarah’s research includes consulting detectives, lawyers, judges and attending murder trials.

Reviews

[Chantelle Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.9 🌟 (Audible)

I am quite likely to be in the minority here but I just don't like Rav. As this book revolves around Nell + Rav's wedding, you can probably understand how I had a hard time getting into the story. Particularly when Rav's older sister is so rude to her new sister-in-law. As per usual, Nell opens her home to all these self-righteous people + then gets disparaged for her birthright. It just disgusts me.

All that being said, the mystery was excellent, James was more than supportive, + even Shannon got a redemption arc.

[Lata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disaster magnets Nell and Rav are in India getting married with much joy and dancing, with Rav’s family.

On part of the trip back to Finchmere, on the Orient Express, Rav’s beloved grandmother Shushi dies suddenly, orompting an autopsy, and a swift return of the party to Finchmere, to await results and for Nell to wonder whether the second half of the celebration, the blessing, will occur, in light of the death and uncertainty, and the hurt and betrayal Nell feels when she discovers that Rav had not spoken to her at all about the potential very negative implications the tiger statue they found (in a “Charm of Finches”) would have on his family.

And then two members of the party are poisoned, with one dying, then Aanya, Rav’s younger sister is poisoned, causing more upheaval, and the guests to look with suspicion at each other.

Of course Nell has noticed odd details, and had a tough discussion with Rav while confronting Rav’s unwillingness to face hard facts. She also had to confront some hard facts about her privilege, by beginning to think about what she could do with the tiger statue. Thankfully, they begin investigating Rav’s family together, and unearth a mess, and a bunch of lies and manipulations going back many years.

This one moved fast, and it was great meeting more of Rav’s family, however fraught the circumstances. I liked that both Nell and Rav had to confront certain blind spots both have had about themselves, and that they’re in a stronger place together by the end. And wonder of wonders, Nell willingly hugged Shannon!

Thank you to Netgalley and to Embla Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars
This book picks up shortly after the events of the short story, A Charm of Finches.
An ancestor of the main character, ecologist Dr. Nell Ward, has left clues on the estate to a hidden treasure. The short story gives the details on the treasure hunt, but it isn't necessary to read it before reading this one. However, I would recommend starting with other books in the series before reading this one to get to know the main characters better. This book starts with Nell and Rav in India celebrating their marriage in a traditional Indian ceremony and preparing to return to England for a celebration there.

Things go "off the rails" when Nell, Rav, and his family are on the Orient Express, on the way to England. Rav has kept a huge secret from Nell about her ancestor's treasure and how it connects to his family. A death occurs on the train and then more attempts are made at Nell's family estate in England. Nell and Rav are at odds and their marriage and their lives are in danger. I didn't like all the different secrets that Rav and Rav's family were keeping, but as they start to come out and Nell and Rav start communicating, the book picks up and the tension that arises makes it hard to put down. Nell's scientific knowledge once again helps to solve a baffling mystery and is what makes this such a unique series.

I received an advance copy of this ebook from Embla Books and NetGalley for review purposes. My review is voluntary and unbiased.

[Ritu Bhathal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed the Nell Ward series in its entirety, and was thrilled to read this seventh book.
It may be read as a standalone, but I think the reader's enjoyment will be further enhanced if they have read the previous ones, as there are many instances in the book where the past is mentioned. Certain relationships make more sense with that background.
After being in Ireland for one story, this one takes us to India for the first part of the story as our favourite ecologist turned detective, Nell, finally ties the knot with the dashing Rav Kashyap, her partner at work, as well as romantically, and somehow he's become her partner in uncovering crime too.
Amid the celebrations, there is a death, which sparks a train of activity that leads to more death and mysterious activity once most of the wedding party reaches Finchmere, Nell's family estate.
This one held a special place in my heart for its connections to India and certain aspects that really hammer home the effects of colonialism, but the rest of the story was as gripping as always, and it is amazing how Nell's ecological knowledge is used to uncover the culprit this time, too.
Can't wait for another instalment!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books for an ARC.

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nell and Rav go to Nell’s sumptuous home in acres of grounds for a blessing on their wedding; a joyous colourful Indian wedding. On their way to Nell’s family pile they board the Orient Express with Rav’s extended family, sisters, cousins and his grandmother. Tragedy strikes as grandma suddenly dies of heart attack…or is her death more sinister? As the story unfolds more deaths occur. Is it someone trying to get hold of the famously stolen recently found Tiger ornament or are there other motives for the murders. Quite frankly I found it hard to care very much. The characters were not very interesting to me and the narrative dragged.

The story unfolds similar in intent to an Agatha Christie novel like Then There Were None (a group of rich people, gathered in a huge house, one by one being killed off) or like a Hercule Poirot novel with all the suspects gathered at the end for the big reveal! I haven’t read any Christie novels for years and I think it’s because I’m not overly fond of the genre especially when the writing is a bit clunky and sometimes rather silly. For example just before the description of a desperate drive to the hospital we are told that the car is a ‘supercar’ with make and model included and the loud roar of the engine mentioned several times.

I hadn’t realised that the main character, Nell, was part of a series of books. Maybe I’m missing something as these books seem to be very popular. Perhaps it’s just this book that didn’t resonate. If I come across another of her books I may well read it to find out.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC for my kindle. This is my honest opinion after a full read of the novel.

[Tara · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed the series up to now, but this installment has a major narrative gap, unless I missed something in my reading. Without giving any spoilers, there is a character who reveals three big secrets about other people, but there is no explanation about how this character came to know these other people’s secrets. Since the big reveal at the end of the novel hinges on this plot point, the lack of explanation is disconcerting. The last chapter also seemed stilted and rushed.

[The Mystery Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐
An Ambush of Tigers by Sarah Yarwood-Lovett is the second book I've read in the Dr. Nell Ward series, and I loved this one even more than the first. After a beautiful Indian wedding, Nell and Rav return to a frost-covered Finchmere, eager to host their blessing ceremony in the woodland Nell treasures. But as their families gather for the celebration, someone is setting a deadly trap. The country estate is transformed for the Festive Finchmere Christmas Market, with new artisans creating crafts. Before the festivities can begin, a shocking secret is revealed, showing how their families were fatally connected centuries before Nell and Rav said their vows.

As their newlywed happiness unravels, some of their party are poisoned, and Rav faces the terrifying possibility of losing those he loves. Nell wrestles with her own family history while the tragedies in Rav's life plant seeds of doubt as she hunts the murderer. But Nell can't expose the truth that will save Rav, his family, and their relationship without solid evidence. She must use all her ecological skills and nerve to set a dangerous trap for the most cold-blooded killer she's encountered yet.

What I really appreciate about this series is how Yarwood-Lovett weaves Nell's ecological expertise into the mystery. It never feels forced or like a gimmick. Instead, it's integral to how Nell solves crimes and adds a unique perspective that sets this series apart. The setting is gorgeous, the family dynamics are complex and believable, and the mystery kept me guessing. The relationship between Nell and Rav feels genuine, and watching them navigate both their wedding celebration and a murder investigation adds real emotional stakes.

A fantastic read that has me eager for the next in the series.

#AnAmbushOfTigers #SarahYarwoodLovett #DrNellWard #MysteryBooks #BritishMystery

[AnnieB · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book could have used a good editor for consistency, as well as someone who is familiar with Indian culture. I listened to the audiobooks of this series & enjoyed the first few in this series but I had a few issues with this one. Not sure I’ll read the next one.

1) Nell: definitely a busy-body who gets in the way of the police far too often. I’m really surprised she’s well-regarded by many of the local officers considering how many times she has interfered with evidence - she does get scolded but suffers no other consequences. Also the body count around her is getting quite ridiculous, as is the fact that she’s the only one who ever solves these murders.

2) Rav: has been an annoying manbaby ever since he & Nell have been seeing each other. Super whiny.

**SPOILERS!**

3) Rav’s family: very different in this book compared to how they were portrayed in earlier books.
In previous books Rav’s family is written as your typical first-generation Indian immigrant family: eldest daughter married and living in India (presumably into an Indian family); “number one son” Rav (as he jokingly describes himself) being set up with potential brides who are Indian and Hindu (mom especially disapproves of Nell because she is neither); and parents being very over protective of youngest daughter’s virtue. Very much “But what will people say!”
But in this book we find that older sister Marla’s history has been completely rewritten: she’s married to a Scandinavian(?) architect that her parents set her up with(!) & was previously engaged to someone else who was neither Indian nor Hindu. Parents are also now OK with younger daughter dating.

4) Is it really plausible that someone who has been caught stealing from their host’s home is welcomed back (after being arrested for something else) to stay in the home and no mention is made of the theft- no hard feelings!?

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Ambush of Tigers by Sarah Yarwood-Lovett takes us to India for the wedding of Dr. Nell Ward and Dr. Rav Kashyapi. It was a traditional Indian wedding, gathering Rav’s relatives, both those living in India and those living in England, who had traveled for the nuptials. They then all boarded the Orient Express to return to England to make their vows again, with Nell’s family. While on the trip, Rav’s elderly grandmother just stopped living, for no apparent reason, bringing the mood of the group to a low. Her body was removed at the next stop and his parents remained with her to see to the paper work, et al. Upon returning to Nell’s estate in England, things remained tense. Then, two men were stricken, Jasbir, Rav’s cousin; and Will, his sister’s boyfriend. Will didn’t make it. What in the world did it mean? Poison? And how would it affect Nell and Rav’s relationship?

Nell comes from wealth, but she is now an ecologist who spends all her time studying plants and animals on her parents’ estate. Rav was her equal in every way. She had a way with seeing things, which aided in solving crimes, which they had done multiple times. They are terrific characters who have been through a lot in their time together. The mysteries are always well-thought-out and well-plotted. The story kept the reader guessing until the very end, with several red herrings interspersed within the story. James, Nell’s former fiance, and a police detective was present and engaged in solving these crimes. The characters are good, very interesting and mostly well-rounded. A terrific book.

I was invited to read An Ambush of Tigers by Embla Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #EmblaBooks #SarahLovettYarwood #AnAmbushOfTigers

[Ms. Sethi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love that this series didn't end when they got engaged as they still have adventures and solve mysteries after they are married! I also appreciated seeing Rav being called out on his avoidant behavior and how it has repeatedly put people in danger. It felt more realistic than the dynamic between them has been in the past.

I thought large parts of the story were wildly unrealistic from the treasure itself, Rav being able to keep the gold tiger a secret for so long, Nell being surprised that her family history involved looting and much worse (how does she think British aristocrats made so much money?), and especially the murder weapon and the way they "trapped" the murderer. It doesn't seem like something the police would have agreed to and if you've been poisoned wouldn't you stay somewhere else where you know the poisoner can't get you?

I also thought the description of a "dazzling" Indian wedding and a jeweled tiger treasure felt a bit much. India is an incredibly diverse country made up of many different cultures, but that was not reflected in this book.

If you read this as an unrealistic, fun mystery with an ecological and historical twist, it's a suspenseful and captivating read, which is why I'm rounding up from 3.5 stars. It is fiction after all.

*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

An Ambush of Tigers is the 7th in the Nell Ward series. Right off the bat, let me say that this will not work as a stand-alone. It’s important to have read the prior books. Nell and Rav are returning from their wedding in India and heading for a blessing at Finchmere, her family’s estate. Along the way there, Rav’s grandmother dies, meaning a possible delay of the blessing. In addition, a long term secret (think hundreds of years) is also revealed. The way everything was revealed leads to a big disagreement between Rav and Nell. And then folks start getting poisoned.
I’ve enjoyed the prior books in this series but this one really missed the mark for me. The whole premise of the story felt forced. The secondary characters came across as caricatures. One of the things I enjoyed in the earlier books was the research Nell did on the environment. I always felt I learned something. That’s missing in this book. On the plus side, I did not see how this would all come together and I did enjoy the Author’s Note which talks about her research.
Given book 6 was also a slight disappointment, this will be the last of the series I attempt.
My thanks to Netgalley and Embla Books for an advance copy of this book.

[Annie (is so far behind 😬) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series, the characters are all so terrifically drawn. There's a lot happening in this one - Nell & Rav's wedding in India, a trip on the Orient Express, murder, attempted murder, family death & drama; it's all here!

There are a lot of characters at the beginning as well, as Rav's family is introduced further. The murder in this installment surrounds Will, Rav's cousin Jasbir's business partner, when they all arrive back at Finchmere for their post-wedding blessing ceremony. The ceremony is put on hold while they all investigate. This then leads to questions about an earlier death on the train.

This is one of my favourite series, mostly because I like the characters so much, but the mysteries are good as well, and you need to pay attention to the particular creatures introduced. I did guess the murderer, but I was wrong about the reasons, so the wrap up was a nice surprise in that regard. Four stars as there's a little illegal/questionable evidence dug up that gets brushed over, which, although I know it's for the plot, is a bit disappointing.

This is a great series but you do need to start from the beginning in order to follow the character and plot arcs, as this far in there isn't a lot of information to give the reader a backstory.

Read too quickly, and now have to wait another year for the next!

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are my own.

[Tracy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, it's time for Dr Nell Ward and her fiance, Dr Rav Kashyap, to tie the knot. First, with all the colours and traditions of an Indian wedding with Rav's family and then a blessing at Finchmere, Nell's beloved home and land. When a member of the wedding party dies on the way back to England, after a revelation from years earlier, the gloss is taken off everything. When a second fatality occurs, everyone is on edge, but one of them is far more dangerous and determined than the rest, and everyone Nell and Rav hold dear are in far more jeopardy than any of them realise.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Embla Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. This series just gets better and better. Page turner is almost not compliment enough for this story. I wanted to inhale in but also savour every word. There story, the main protagonists, the crimes, all engage the reader from the start and, once again, it's obvious that the author has done a huge amount of research both historically and ecologically to make this as realistic as possible. Highly Recommended

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was delighted to receive an advance copy of An Ambush of Tigers, having read and enjoyed the Dr. Nell Ward Mysteries from the very beginning. This installment is best appreciated as part of the series rather than a stand-alone, since so much of the tension relies on the backstories of returning characters. The novel opens with Nell and Rav’s wedding in India before the party travels home via the Orient Express. Trouble surfaces almost immediately, with shocking revelations about family history, a death aboard the train, and poisonings once they arrive at Finchmere. I was kept guessing throughout; I changed my mind several times about who the true villain might be. While I did find it a bit unrealistic that Nell would allow suspected guests to remain at her home, it served the classic mystery purpose of keeping all suspects under one roof. This book also features a number of unlikeable characters, which added to the tension, though it was sometimes hard to imagine why their partners and families tolerated them. Overall, this was a suspenseful, twist-filled read that continues to expand Nell’s world in intriguing ways. I’m already looking forward to the next installment.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s something deliciously comforting about slipping back into Dr Nell Ward’s world—where murder meets meadows, and science sleuthing is served with a side of tea and tangled secrets. An Ambush of Tigers (Book 7!) is another delightful romp through the English countryside, this time with big cat sightings, village gossip, and a mystery that prowls just out of reach.

Nell remains a wonderfully grounded heroine—curious, clever, and just the right amount of chaotic. I loved how the natural world is woven into the plot again, with ecological intrigue and animal mischief adding texture and tension. The pacing is gentle but never dull, and the cast of recurring characters feels like old friends popping by for a cuppa (and maybe a clue or two).

Perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Elly Griffiths, or anyone who likes their crime fiction with muddy boots, botanical facts, and a dash of whimsy. Best enjoyed with a blanket, a biscuit, and a cat curled up nearby—real or imagined.

With thanks to Sarah Yarwood-Lovett, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.

[Zara Dal · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Ambush of Tigers is a wonderfully atmospheric whodunnit, reminiscent of a classic Agatha Christie, with its irresistible “closed-circle mystery” feel.

The characters are genuinely well drawn, each with depth, personality and their own believable motivations. You can tell real care went into shaping the cast and it makes the mystery all the more engaging.

What really makes this book stand out, though, is its ecological slant. The conservation and environmental threads running through the story give it a fresh angle that separates it from more traditional murder mysteries. It’s clever without being preachy and adds meaningful layers to the plot.

My only drawbacks were the pacing, which felt a little too slow in places and a motive that didn’t land with quite as much impact as I’d hoped after such a strong build-up. However, even with those elements, the story held my attention and the craftsmanship behind it shines.

A thoughtful, atmospheric mystery with a unique twist. Well worth a read for classic crime fans looking for something a little different.

[Jo-anne Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Travelling back from their lavish Indian wedding Nell and Rav are upset as his Grandmother dies on the Orient Express. As his parents deal with the body, the rest of the wedding party decamps to Finchmere where a celebration is due to take place. However members of the party start to succumb to a poisoning episode, one dies, and all plans are up in the air.
I feel that this series is going from strength to strength and this is probably the best episode to date. As ever the ecological slant given is expertly written and I loved the whole plot line around neurotoxins being used to develop cancer drugs. The writing still feels a little privileged and clunky at times but this story pounds along at a great pace. Funnily enough the initial side plot about the return of a precious Indian artefact looted during the Raj is the incongruous bit - it feels like a politically correct bolt-on and the story is stronger without it!

[Zandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 5th book I have read by Sarah Yarwood-Lovett. I have loved all the books I have read by her. This one started differently, the colourful Indian wedding followed by a ride on the Orient Express back to England. Unfortunately one of the wedding party dies of a “heart attack”. This is followed by poisonings on several more of the wedding party. Also a very old family secret comes to light and causes a rift between Nell and Rav, but they need to work together to find out what is going on. How will it end? I recommend you read the story and discover what has happened, Although I enjoyed reading about the wedding, I found the beginning of the book quite different from her previous books and it took me a while to get involved with everyone. However as soon as they arrived back home, the book was a real page turner for me.

[Shaz · Rating 3 out of 5]

This seventh instalment following Nell and Rav takes us from India (very briefly) back to Finchmere and picks up only a few weeks after the end of the last book (so yes you do need to start there!)

This was probably my least favourite of these books purely because it relied far too heavily on the miscommunication trope. Or maybe that should be complete lack of any communication?

I found I could see where quite a bit of the story was going and I did get quite frustrated that a bunch of grown adults couldn't have an open conversation.

That being said I actually really enjoyed the conclusion and didn't see any of it coming. I would definitely read more of this series but would love there to be more ecology bits and pieces because they're my favourite parts.

[Richard Morrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wedding bells are ringing for Nell and Rav as their big day is fast approaching but as with everything this pair does, death, danger and betrayal are quick to be knocking outside their door. Through their animal knowledge, they can solve the crime but this times is the collateral too much to be dealt with?
I have read all of these books but I am finding the character of Nell to be increasingly portrayed as entitled and a little bratty; and I think her relationship with Rav is seen as dysfunctional rather than couple goals due to her narcissism and his avoidance.
I enjoy these books and I appreciate the use of nature in the denouement but I do find the protagonists leave a sour taste in my mouth afterwards.

[Heyer 100 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The best action within this book was Conor tackling Rav on his wimpy, self pitying nature; a trait that irritated me no end in the last novel. Nell’s apparent guilt about her background, the privilege she was born into, is a bit overdone. She didn’t choose to be born into the family she is a member of - she can and has chosen how to lead her life and use that privilege to nurture and benefit the natural world. I note that this “guilt” doesn’t stop her driving top of the range vehicles; albeit expensively adapted to be better for the environment.
Hopefully both Rav and Nell will be less wound up in their own demons and more into ecological adventures in the next instalment of their murderous adventures.

[Holly Hurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay, Nell and Rav are finally married! But oh no, they’re in danger again!

This was a such a good way to show how their families’ lives have been intertwined for hundreds of years, with devastating consequences.

This one really gave me Flavia de Luce all grown up vibes (in the best way).

I also really appreciated the additional chapters of audio at the end of the short story A Charm of Finches, which explains the importance of what was at the center of the friction between Nell & Rav. I have the Kindle version of the short story, but I stare at a computer screen 9-10 hours a day so I really prefer to rest my eyes if possible with audiobooks these days.

[zoe Hitchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nell and Rav are on the Orient Express returning from their lavish wedding in India .
Rav’s family are all enjoying the journey when his gran becomes ill and unfortunately dies .
As you would expect Rav is inconsolable.
The death seems to drive a wedge between the couple , because Nell begins to think the death wasn’t by natural causes .
There are secrets and lies aplenty in this book .
Can the couple get their relationship back on track?
Cleverly written and had me turning the pages into the night .
An entertaining and unique series looking forward to the next in the series .
Thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books.

[Miki Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story picks up at Nell and Rav's wedding in India. They have a great time and pick up the Orient Express to travel home with the family. On the journey Rav's grandmother seems upset and when she passes the family is devastated. Rav's parents stay with her body as there will be a post mortem and the rest of the family travel to FInchmere where there will be blessing nearer to Christmas.
When a couple of the party are poisoned Nell knows that there is more to this than meets the eye and amid trying circumstances, she does her best to get to the truth.
An entertaining easy read.

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delight to return to Fitchmere in the Winter! Nell and Rav, after celebrating their Indian wedding abroad with their friends and families are going home to Fitchmere to celebrate their blessing in their beloved woods that they love. However, the best laid plans are soon torn asunder by unusual happenings of poisonings and a death. Of course, Nell can't help herself with starting to investigate. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns with a few red herrings thrown in, suspenseful and unputdownable. The final reveal was a complete surprise to me!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Come for the mystery, stay for the ecology?

I really do enjoy these books. They are mostly cozy, but with some great ecology folded in. Sometimes a little sappy (or, more, in this case), but very pleasant and including many characters you can just root for.

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful mystery!

Nell and Rav in the midst of their wedding find relatives dropping like flies. With a handful of relatives still surrounding them this complex mess l ends for a solid ' who did it.'

[Sarah Harwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed all of the Dr Nell Ward books so far, you do need to read them in order to understand what is going on as there is a lot of back story to enjoy. In this book we meet Rav’s family as they are celebrating an event with Nell.

Once again there is a mysterious murder which Nell has to unravel with her ecological skills. The ecology part was always been my favourite part of these novels and, like the previous book, this was a bit light on the ground.

The mystery is actually quite dark as it's affecting people who are central characters this time which was an unusual turn.

Once again an enjoyable read, but more birds, bugs and mud next time around please

[Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of this series of books from Sarah Yarwood-Lovett and each one gets better and better. Dr Nell and Rav are a great pair of characters and each story is full of adventure and mystery.
This time we’re treated to a mystery wrapped in both families and the link is so cleverly woven between the events between Rav and Nell. Their wedding celebrations are curtailed as it becomes obvious there’s more to this mystery than first thought.
I loved seeing how both Nell and Rav worked through the mystery - the risk of losing those close to them, added an extra tension in every action.

[Nemo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing mystery in the series. I loved reading the previous books and this one exceeded expectations. It gripped me from the first page and I couldn't stop reading until I got to the end.