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Malvern Farm Mystery #6
A Very Merry Murder
Preorder the BRAND NEW instalment in Kate Wells' brilliantly addictive cozy mystery series! Mistletoe, mince pies… and murder
When Jude Gray inherited Malvern Farm, she never thought she’d become so used to farm life, let alone be good at it! But now a beloved national TV show is coming to film their Christmas special on her land, celebrating the charm of rural living and all Jude’s achieved so far.
At least, that’s the plan… until one of the crew is found dead in suspicious circumstances.
At first, it looks like a tragic accident, but when alibis start to crack, it seems like anything but. With a growing list of suspects and enough behind-the-scenes drama to rival anything the cameras are capturing, Jude must dig deep to uncover the truth.
Because someone on her farm is hiding a deadly secret – and this year, the season of goodwill may come with a killer twist…
A page-turning festive mystery perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Mary Grand and Frances Evesham.
When Jude Gray inherited Malvern Farm, she never thought she’d become so used to farm life, let alone be good at it! But now a beloved national TV show is coming to film their Christmas special on her land, celebrating the charm of rural living and all Jude’s achieved so far.
At least, that’s the plan… until one of the crew is found dead in suspicious circumstances.
At first, it looks like a tragic accident, but when alibis start to crack, it seems like anything but. With a growing list of suspects and enough behind-the-scenes drama to rival anything the cameras are capturing, Jude must dig deep to uncover the truth.
Because someone on her farm is hiding a deadly secret – and this year, the season of goodwill may come with a killer twist…
A page-turning festive mystery perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Mary Grand and Frances Evesham.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2025
4441 people are currently reading
603 people want to read
About the author
Kate Wells
41 books34 followersLibrary of Congress Authorities: Wells, Kate, 1959-
Senior technical instructor of dyeing and printing, Royal Coll. of Art, London
Senior technical instructor of dyeing and printing, Royal Coll. of Art, London
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
August 19, 2025
Jude has agreed to allow a film crew to use Malvern farm to film three weeks of a popular live tv show, leading up to Christmas. On tv, the married couple who host the show looked like they’re very happy and very much in love but it quickly becomes evident that things are definitely not what they seem. And it’s not just the couple who seem less enamoured of each other. The crew seem to dislike each other intensely, the director is a lech, and Jude learns to her dismay, she has a contractual obligation to appear on the show at least once. Things quickly start falling apart. First the leading lady has an allergic reaction to peanuts on air despite them being banned from the show. And not long after, a crew member is murdered. Jude is determined to discover who the culprit is before another murder but with so many suspects and secrets, she may be in way over her head.
A Very Merry Murder is an enjoyable cozy mystery by Kate Wells with a compelling mystery and interesting characters including Jude who makes for a very strong and resilient protagonist. There are plenty of twists and turns and red herrings to keep even the most jaded mystery reader satisfied. And as much as I enjoyed the mystery, I found the glimpses of the scenery, the animals, and Jude’s family just as interesting.This is the sixth book in the series and the first I read but I didn’t find that interfered with my reading of the story except perhaps to make me want to add the others to my ever growing tbr pile.
I received an aARC of the novel from Netgalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review
A Very Merry Murder is an enjoyable cozy mystery by Kate Wells with a compelling mystery and interesting characters including Jude who makes for a very strong and resilient protagonist. There are plenty of twists and turns and red herrings to keep even the most jaded mystery reader satisfied. And as much as I enjoyed the mystery, I found the glimpses of the scenery, the animals, and Jude’s family just as interesting.This is the sixth book in the series and the first I read but I didn’t find that interfered with my reading of the story except perhaps to make me want to add the others to my ever growing tbr pile.
I received an aARC of the novel from Netgalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review
December 16, 2025
A murder mystery in the midst of taking care of a farm, filming a Christmas special, and prepping for a wedding.
Jude takes on letting a Christmas show do living filming around her farm because she'd love the injection of income, especially during the holidays. She's also planning a wedding, messy with ex's and family and other dramas.
In the midst of the farm drama is the show drama. There is no way to miss it, the way the crew is not quite as happy and easy-going as the live coverage shows them. But when a couple of emergencies put them all on edge, it's when there is a death that may be murder that Jude finally decides she needs to get the middle of all of this.
This was a good mystery! I like that, although it was supposed to be cozy, the police weren't bumbling and the main character - it made sense that she was in the middle of it all and could and would see and find things relevant to the mysterious death. The mystery kept me guessing and I liked that, although this was #6 in the series, it was easy to slide right into the farm and the characters without feeling like I'd missed a lot of backstory.
A fun, holiday read. I liked this one!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Jude takes on letting a Christmas show do living filming around her farm because she'd love the injection of income, especially during the holidays. She's also planning a wedding, messy with ex's and family and other dramas.
In the midst of the farm drama is the show drama. There is no way to miss it, the way the crew is not quite as happy and easy-going as the live coverage shows them. But when a couple of emergencies put them all on edge, it's when there is a death that may be murder that Jude finally decides she needs to get the middle of all of this.
This was a good mystery! I like that, although it was supposed to be cozy, the police weren't bumbling and the main character - it made sense that she was in the middle of it all and could and would see and find things relevant to the mysterious death. The mystery kept me guessing and I liked that, although this was #6 in the series, it was easy to slide right into the farm and the characters without feeling like I'd missed a lot of backstory.
A fun, holiday read. I liked this one!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
July 23, 2025
I haven't read many of this author's books, but I'm very glad that I read A Very Merry Murder.
The title, description, and cover attracted me, and as I settled in to read, I found myself quite interested in the life of Jude and her family.
When a popular television show is filming on her farm, Jude is not prepared for all the drama involved, or the murder that takes place.
This is an excellent holiday cozy mystery that I'm happy to recommend to others.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
The title, description, and cover attracted me, and as I settled in to read, I found myself quite interested in the life of Jude and her family.
When a popular television show is filming on her farm, Jude is not prepared for all the drama involved, or the murder that takes place.
This is an excellent holiday cozy mystery that I'm happy to recommend to others.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
December 11, 2025
I was disappointed with this book.
The main characters were bland..... I think a lot of that has to do with this being book NUMBER SIX
in a series. I didn't read the others. I didn't know they existed. I just picked this one because it was
a free Amazon Prime book. It had a pretty picture and I thought a Christmas focused murder mystery
might be entertaining. I wanted something light.
This was just dull. Perhaps its dullness allowed me to figure out "who dun it" pretty early.
I think I should be most upset with Amazon for not indicating this wasn't the first book in the series.
(Well, at least not indicating in big bright letters
The main characters were bland..... I think a lot of that has to do with this being book NUMBER SIX
in a series. I didn't read the others. I didn't know they existed. I just picked this one because it was
a free Amazon Prime book. It had a pretty picture and I thought a Christmas focused murder mystery
might be entertaining. I wanted something light.
This was just dull. Perhaps its dullness allowed me to figure out "who dun it" pretty early.
I think I should be most upset with Amazon for not indicating this wasn't the first book in the series.
(Well, at least not indicating in big bright letters
September 3, 2025
I enjoyed this book it’s ok it’s a festive cozy mystery
Blurb
When Jude Gray inherited Malvern Farm, she never thought she’d become so used to farm life, let alone be good at it! But now a beloved national TV show is coming to film their Christmas special on her land, celebrating the charm of rural living.
At least, that’s the plan… until one of the crew is found dead in suspicious circumstances.
At first, it looks like a tragic accident, but when alibis start to crack, it seems like anything but. With a growing list of suspects and enough behind-the-scenes drama to rival anything the cameras are capturing, Jude must dig deep to uncover the truth.
Because someone on her farm is hiding a deadly secret – and this year, the season of goodwill may come with a killer twist…
Blurb
When Jude Gray inherited Malvern Farm, she never thought she’d become so used to farm life, let alone be good at it! But now a beloved national TV show is coming to film their Christmas special on her land, celebrating the charm of rural living.
At least, that’s the plan… until one of the crew is found dead in suspicious circumstances.
At first, it looks like a tragic accident, but when alibis start to crack, it seems like anything but. With a growing list of suspects and enough behind-the-scenes drama to rival anything the cameras are capturing, Jude must dig deep to uncover the truth.
Because someone on her farm is hiding a deadly secret – and this year, the season of goodwill may come with a killer twist…
November 19, 2025
This book was a waste of my time.
It wasn't the WORST book I've ever read, but it was so repetitive it was annoying. It has great reviews too and I'm not sure why.
The whole book is practically a "whodunit" (which I usually love, so that makes this even more irritating), but essentially, Jude allows a film crew onto her farm for the 3 weeks leading up to Christmas to film a TV show. She's annoyed by their presence the entire time, but sucking it up because she's getting a hefty check out of the ordeal. Until one of the crew members turns up dead and Jude takes it upon herself to get to the bottom of it, all evidence pointing to murder.
Even WITH the police involved. Let me tell you, Jude is sneaking around, looking for clues and listening in on private conversations, and then she recounts EVERYTHING YOU'VE JUST READ to someone else in the book...for an entire 10 or more pages. Absolutely everything was repetitive and I just kept re-reading information in this book that I already knew had happened. I found myself skipping page after page because I wasn't learning anything knew and Jude is just re-hashing information she learned in the previous chapter.
If you're going to write a Whodunit, do better. I wasn't even surprised when I found out WHODUNIT.
End rant.
It wasn't the WORST book I've ever read, but it was so repetitive it was annoying. It has great reviews too and I'm not sure why.
The whole book is practically a "whodunit" (which I usually love, so that makes this even more irritating), but essentially, Jude allows a film crew onto her farm for the 3 weeks leading up to Christmas to film a TV show. She's annoyed by their presence the entire time, but sucking it up because she's getting a hefty check out of the ordeal. Until one of the crew members turns up dead and Jude takes it upon herself to get to the bottom of it, all evidence pointing to murder.
Even WITH the police involved. Let me tell you, Jude is sneaking around, looking for clues and listening in on private conversations, and then she recounts EVERYTHING YOU'VE JUST READ to someone else in the book...for an entire 10 or more pages. Absolutely everything was repetitive and I just kept re-reading information in this book that I already knew had happened. I found myself skipping page after page because I wasn't learning anything knew and Jude is just re-hashing information she learned in the previous chapter.
If you're going to write a Whodunit, do better. I wasn't even surprised when I found out WHODUNIT.
End rant.
September 11, 2025
Apparently this is the sixth book in the Malvern Farm Mysteries...it's the first book of the series for me. I was attracted to this book because of the festive cover AND because I love a good Christmassy read...even if that means someone has to be murdered for my entertainment.
It's an enjoyable cozy style mystery that takes place across December. There's snow on the ground, the lights are a twinkle and there's a killer at large.
It takes a whole for the action to pick up, but once it does. There were just enough twists and turns to keep me on my toes.
There are some great characters, but I have to say it was Sebbie who stole the show for me. So cute.
It's an enjoyable cozy style mystery that takes place across December. There's snow on the ground, the lights are a twinkle and there's a killer at large.
It takes a whole for the action to pick up, but once it does. There were just enough twists and turns to keep me on my toes.
There are some great characters, but I have to say it was Sebbie who stole the show for me. So cute.
Read
December 7, 2025It was okay, a little slow and unexciting for me. I liked that it was Christmasy though!
September 28, 2025
A Very Merry Murder, is the sixth book in The Malvern Farms mysteries by Kate Wells, this time we find Jude against her better judgment hosting a popular TV show at her farm and against more of her better judgment even agrees to be on the show the first night. as if Jude doesn’t have enough to do it is right before Christmas and right before Lucy and Noah get married and along with her farm duties Jude is a very busy bee. The very first day Jude is regretting agreeing to them filming the director is a sleazy nightmare the researcher is a bully and despite the host Anna and Simon seemingly loving relationship Jude sees cracks in the façade but like always she tries to mind her business. unfortunately for Jude there will be a mystery of foot from a peanut allergy poisoning to the death of the camera woman and this is all just the beginning. With great suspects and Benny back at work Jude not only has allies helping her out but grandma Margo makes an appearance on the show and shares her own suspicions after spending time with the crew. Sadly the camera woman won’t be the only victim in Jude will be up to her eyeballs with to do list and murders to solve and she hasn’t even gotten to Christmas decorations yet. I love these books so much I love the characters the mysteries are always good I do feel bad with Jude and her whole situation with Marco especially since Claire is so nice that even Jude can’t help but to like her but anything can happen in these mysteries and they do so fingers crossed. If you love a good cozy mystery and love to get into a good series that moves along from book to book this is a great one that I absolutely am obsessed with. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #KateWells, #TheMalvernFarmMysteries, #Avery MerryMurder,
November 3, 2025
This is the first book I have read in the series and I thought it was very good. I loved the farm setting and the description of its scenery and daily chores performed, the mystery was good and I really liked the assortment of characters especially the protagonist Jude Gray. This was a cozy mystery done well. I am interested in checking out the earlier titles in the series to see how the story all begins.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Boldwood Books and the author Kate Wells for the digital ARC of the book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Boldwood Books and the author Kate Wells for the digital ARC of the book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
November 22, 2025
A new author to me. I loved the characters in the this book. They seemed so real, even the bad ones. The plot was clever with an interesting twist. This was book 6 in the series, but I didn’t feel like I missed anything. Having said that, I enjoyed the book so much, I plan to read the series from the beginning.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
December 18, 2025
I am pleasantly surprised. I had low expectations for this partly because it was recommended to me by prime and the cover looks like one of those mass markets you find at the airport, but this was a good murder mystery. Although I did kind of guess who the killer was, I enjoyed the loopiness and did manage to convince myself it was someone else at times.
December 9, 2025
super cozy christmas time murder mystery. nothing fancy but made me wanna snuggle up and drink some tea 🫶🏻
December 18, 2025
Another fab instalment in a wonderful mystery series.
Full review to follow.
Full review to follow.
December 4, 2025
WHen I picked this to read, I didn't realise it was part of a series but that doesn't matter at all, so I read this has a stand alone book.
I didn't know if I would enjoy a Christmas book that involved a murder but OMG this was amazing. I absolutely loved it and was a 5* from me.
I didn't know if I would enjoy a Christmas book that involved a murder but OMG this was amazing. I absolutely loved it and was a 5* from me.
September 9, 2025
Another fabulous installment of the Malvern Murders series, I am so invested in these books!
A film crew has set up camp on Malvern Farm to film for Countryside Life, and drama ensues. This book is full of twists and red herrings. I really couldn't guess who the murderer was because everyone was a suspect!
I loved seeing the familiar characters back and I loved the descriptions of winter at the farm.
A film crew has set up camp on Malvern Farm to film for Countryside Life, and drama ensues. This book is full of twists and red herrings. I really couldn't guess who the murderer was because everyone was a suspect!
I loved seeing the familiar characters back and I loved the descriptions of winter at the farm.
August 19, 2025
Book review: Kate Wells, A Very Merry Murder
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
I went into A Very Merry Murder expecting a cozy Christmas mystery with some charming countryside flavor—and what I got was so much better. Kate Wells has delivered a witty, warm, and smartly plotted story that hit every note I was hoping for. Yes, it’s cozy. Yes, it’s festive. But it’s also quietly sharp, surprisingly layered, and loaded with subtle humor. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to wrap up in a blanket, pour some tea, and ignore your phone until you’ve hit the last page.
The story opens with Jude Gray, a widowed farmer who’s finally found her footing running Malvern Farm. It’s not easy—nothing about farm life is—but she’s holding it down with help from her sister Lucy, Lucy’s fiancé Noah, and Jude’s adorable nephew Sebbie. Things take a turn when a national TV show, Countryside Live, decides to film their big Christmas special on her land. The money is good, the exposure could help the farm… but Jude quickly realizes that showbiz brings more drama than she bargained for. When a crew member turns up dead and it starts to look less like an accident and more like murder, Jude finds herself knee-deep in another mystery.
This book is a perfect blend of countryside charm and Agatha Christie-style suspicion. The murder mystery at its heart is genuinely compelling, with just enough red herrings, misdirection, and “ah-ha!” moments to keep me flipping pages well into the night. Wells doesn’t rely on cheap twists—she sets up her clues with care and delivers satisfying payoffs. I didn’t figure out the killer until Jude did, and when I did, I had that wonderful moment of going back through earlier chapters thinking, “Of course. It was right there.”
Jude is what really makes this book sing. She’s relatable in a way that feels rare in cozy mysteries. She’s not quirky or cutesy—she’s grounded. She’s smart, sarcastic, stubborn, and deeply loyal. I loved her dry wit, her unwillingness to suffer fools, and the way she quietly carries so much emotional weight without ever tipping into melodrama. Her relationship with her family is heartwarming without being saccharine, and her chemistry with artist (and maybe-more-than-a-friend) Marco adds just the right touch of romance. There’s a spark between them that simmers under the surface, complicated by timing, friendship, and old feelings that never quite went away.
The supporting cast is just as strong. Granny Margot is an absolute standout—sharp as a tack, completely unfiltered, and a delight every time she’s on the page. Binnie, Jude’s friend in the police force, adds a great dynamic to the investigation side of the plot, especially as she’s recovering from her own professional shake-up. Even the animals at the farm, from the ducks to the sheep with names like Rodney Trotter, bring their own charm to the story without feeling like over-the-top props. It’s the kind of book where every character, even the minor ones, feels fully realized and authentic.
One of the things I appreciated most is how Kate Wells handles tone. This is a cozy mystery, yes—but it never feels twee or shallow. There’s real emotion under the surface: grief, frustration, longing, even anger. But it’s handled with a light touch, and always balanced by humor. The setting—a farm under a blanket of snow, dotted with fairy lights and muddy boots—is beautifully rendered. It’s festive without being too sweet, and it never loses sight of the murder at its core.
The pacing is solid throughout, with a slight slowdown in the middle, but not enough to lose momentum. Just when I started to wonder where things were going, a new clue or complication would pull me right back in. And the ending? Completely satisfying. No loose ends, no last-minute cheats—just a clean, clever resolution that left me with a smile.
One line that stayed with me long after I finished reading was: “Secrets don’t go away just because you pretend they’re snow underfoot. They always melt through eventually.” It’s such a simple metaphor, but it captures the entire essence of the book: the way things hidden beneath the surface always have a way of coming to light, especially in a small village where everyone thinks they know everything.
• A Very Merry Murder * is exactly what you want in a holiday mystery: cozy but not soft, funny without losing its edge, and packed with heart. Whether you’ve read the previous books in the series or are jumping in fresh (like I did), this one works beautifully as a standalone. I didn’t feel lost or out of place—Wells gives just enough context to welcome new readers without slowing down the plot.
If you like your mysteries with atmosphere, wit, and a heroine you’ll genuinely root for, do yourself a favor and pick this up. It’s a standout addition to the cozy crime genre, and I’ll absolutely be spending more time at Malvern Farm.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5 stars)
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
I went into A Very Merry Murder expecting a cozy Christmas mystery with some charming countryside flavor—and what I got was so much better. Kate Wells has delivered a witty, warm, and smartly plotted story that hit every note I was hoping for. Yes, it’s cozy. Yes, it’s festive. But it’s also quietly sharp, surprisingly layered, and loaded with subtle humor. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to wrap up in a blanket, pour some tea, and ignore your phone until you’ve hit the last page.
The story opens with Jude Gray, a widowed farmer who’s finally found her footing running Malvern Farm. It’s not easy—nothing about farm life is—but she’s holding it down with help from her sister Lucy, Lucy’s fiancé Noah, and Jude’s adorable nephew Sebbie. Things take a turn when a national TV show, Countryside Live, decides to film their big Christmas special on her land. The money is good, the exposure could help the farm… but Jude quickly realizes that showbiz brings more drama than she bargained for. When a crew member turns up dead and it starts to look less like an accident and more like murder, Jude finds herself knee-deep in another mystery.
This book is a perfect blend of countryside charm and Agatha Christie-style suspicion. The murder mystery at its heart is genuinely compelling, with just enough red herrings, misdirection, and “ah-ha!” moments to keep me flipping pages well into the night. Wells doesn’t rely on cheap twists—she sets up her clues with care and delivers satisfying payoffs. I didn’t figure out the killer until Jude did, and when I did, I had that wonderful moment of going back through earlier chapters thinking, “Of course. It was right there.”
Jude is what really makes this book sing. She’s relatable in a way that feels rare in cozy mysteries. She’s not quirky or cutesy—she’s grounded. She’s smart, sarcastic, stubborn, and deeply loyal. I loved her dry wit, her unwillingness to suffer fools, and the way she quietly carries so much emotional weight without ever tipping into melodrama. Her relationship with her family is heartwarming without being saccharine, and her chemistry with artist (and maybe-more-than-a-friend) Marco adds just the right touch of romance. There’s a spark between them that simmers under the surface, complicated by timing, friendship, and old feelings that never quite went away.
The supporting cast is just as strong. Granny Margot is an absolute standout—sharp as a tack, completely unfiltered, and a delight every time she’s on the page. Binnie, Jude’s friend in the police force, adds a great dynamic to the investigation side of the plot, especially as she’s recovering from her own professional shake-up. Even the animals at the farm, from the ducks to the sheep with names like Rodney Trotter, bring their own charm to the story without feeling like over-the-top props. It’s the kind of book where every character, even the minor ones, feels fully realized and authentic.
One of the things I appreciated most is how Kate Wells handles tone. This is a cozy mystery, yes—but it never feels twee or shallow. There’s real emotion under the surface: grief, frustration, longing, even anger. But it’s handled with a light touch, and always balanced by humor. The setting—a farm under a blanket of snow, dotted with fairy lights and muddy boots—is beautifully rendered. It’s festive without being too sweet, and it never loses sight of the murder at its core.
The pacing is solid throughout, with a slight slowdown in the middle, but not enough to lose momentum. Just when I started to wonder where things were going, a new clue or complication would pull me right back in. And the ending? Completely satisfying. No loose ends, no last-minute cheats—just a clean, clever resolution that left me with a smile.
One line that stayed with me long after I finished reading was: “Secrets don’t go away just because you pretend they’re snow underfoot. They always melt through eventually.” It’s such a simple metaphor, but it captures the entire essence of the book: the way things hidden beneath the surface always have a way of coming to light, especially in a small village where everyone thinks they know everything.
• A Very Merry Murder * is exactly what you want in a holiday mystery: cozy but not soft, funny without losing its edge, and packed with heart. Whether you’ve read the previous books in the series or are jumping in fresh (like I did), this one works beautifully as a standalone. I didn’t feel lost or out of place—Wells gives just enough context to welcome new readers without slowing down the plot.
If you like your mysteries with atmosphere, wit, and a heroine you’ll genuinely root for, do yourself a favor and pick this up. It’s a standout addition to the cozy crime genre, and I’ll absolutely be spending more time at Malvern Farm.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5 stars)
September 4, 2025
Okay, who let this festive murder mystery sneak into the room wearing a Hallmark sweater but carrying a knife behind its back? Because A Very Merry Murder came jingling into my life like it was going to be cozy chaos and instead made me question the true danger levels of a TV presenter with a nut allergy and a fake smile.
This was my first time meeting Jude Gray, and I’m gonna be honest, I had no idea what was going on for, like, the first ten chapters. Not because the plot was confusing, but because I stumbled into book SIX like a drunk aunt showing up to a wedding reception with no idea who the bride is but very strong opinions about the cake. There were clearly layers to these relationships, and I kept trying to piece them together like it was some small-town emotional Rubik’s Cube. “Okay, so Noah is marrying Lucy who is Jude’s sister but also lives on the farm with Sebbie and... wait, is Marco the ex or the maybe-ex or the potential future maybe?” The character web felt like it needed a flipchart and a laser pointer, but eventually I gave up and just vibed.
Jude is… competent. Like, deeply competent. Farm-running, cow-wrangling, emotionally-tired-but-still-functioning competent. Which is refreshing, because we usually get cozy mystery heroines who are one decorative teacup away from a nervous breakdown. Not Jude. She’s handling a farm, a Christmas wedding, a child who thinks mischief is a personality trait, and a live countryside television special full of producers who are clearly two Christmas lights short of a full strand. Oh, and she’s also solving a murder because apparently the police are just like, “You seem bored. Go for it.”
Let’s talk about this murder plot. We’ve got a toxic TV set full of people who absolutely deserve to be murdered in that reality TV kind of way. The passive-aggressive married hosts. The sleazy director. The assistant director who’s got rage issues and an enemies list that’s just a photocopy of the crew roster. It’s like Love Island met Midsomer Murders and then got snowed in. First there’s an on-air anaphylactic shock that felt less like an accident and more like someone’s weaponized peanut butter. Then a dead body shows up, and suddenly everyone’s walking around like they’re in Knives Out: Farm Edition.
Do I think the mystery was perfectly paced? Ehh. It took a minute to actually get to the murder, and then it sort of wandered for a while like a sheep that got loose from the paddock. But once it found its footing, it kept the momentum going. There were just enough red herrings to make me doubt every suspect and one goose that I’m still convinced saw the killer.
Marco, the complicated maybe-love-interest, was one of those slow-burn disaster men who shows up to help shovel snow and accidentally stokes unresolved romantic tension like a professional. And I hate how much I liked him. He’s got big “emotionally repressed artist with good biceps” energy. You know he’s gonna screw it up somehow, but you also know he’d cry about it in a barn with a baby lamb in his arms.
Also? Granny Margot is an absolute menace and I love her. She’s got that chaotic senior energy that says, “Yes, I bake pies, but also I might plant evidence for fun.” More of her. Always.
This book has major “cozy Christmas chaos but make it murder” vibes. It’s not a breakneck thriller, and honestly, if you’re new to the series like I was, prepare to feel like you’ve walked into the middle of a long-running village soap opera where everyone knows each other’s secrets and passive-aggressions. But if you stick with it, the slow burn turns into a warm fire with just enough body count to keep it interesting.
Solid 3.5 stars. Slightly confusing start, fun middle, satisfying end. I might not have known what was going on all the time, but I was having a great time not knowing.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Turning “Behind the Scenes” Into a Threat, Not a Bonus Feature
Big thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. Nothing says holiday spirit like murder on live TV and a sheep silently judging your life choices. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go rename all my houseplants after fictional detectives and rewatch every British Christmas special with suspicion in my eyes.
This was my first time meeting Jude Gray, and I’m gonna be honest, I had no idea what was going on for, like, the first ten chapters. Not because the plot was confusing, but because I stumbled into book SIX like a drunk aunt showing up to a wedding reception with no idea who the bride is but very strong opinions about the cake. There were clearly layers to these relationships, and I kept trying to piece them together like it was some small-town emotional Rubik’s Cube. “Okay, so Noah is marrying Lucy who is Jude’s sister but also lives on the farm with Sebbie and... wait, is Marco the ex or the maybe-ex or the potential future maybe?” The character web felt like it needed a flipchart and a laser pointer, but eventually I gave up and just vibed.
Jude is… competent. Like, deeply competent. Farm-running, cow-wrangling, emotionally-tired-but-still-functioning competent. Which is refreshing, because we usually get cozy mystery heroines who are one decorative teacup away from a nervous breakdown. Not Jude. She’s handling a farm, a Christmas wedding, a child who thinks mischief is a personality trait, and a live countryside television special full of producers who are clearly two Christmas lights short of a full strand. Oh, and she’s also solving a murder because apparently the police are just like, “You seem bored. Go for it.”
Let’s talk about this murder plot. We’ve got a toxic TV set full of people who absolutely deserve to be murdered in that reality TV kind of way. The passive-aggressive married hosts. The sleazy director. The assistant director who’s got rage issues and an enemies list that’s just a photocopy of the crew roster. It’s like Love Island met Midsomer Murders and then got snowed in. First there’s an on-air anaphylactic shock that felt less like an accident and more like someone’s weaponized peanut butter. Then a dead body shows up, and suddenly everyone’s walking around like they’re in Knives Out: Farm Edition.
Do I think the mystery was perfectly paced? Ehh. It took a minute to actually get to the murder, and then it sort of wandered for a while like a sheep that got loose from the paddock. But once it found its footing, it kept the momentum going. There were just enough red herrings to make me doubt every suspect and one goose that I’m still convinced saw the killer.
Marco, the complicated maybe-love-interest, was one of those slow-burn disaster men who shows up to help shovel snow and accidentally stokes unresolved romantic tension like a professional. And I hate how much I liked him. He’s got big “emotionally repressed artist with good biceps” energy. You know he’s gonna screw it up somehow, but you also know he’d cry about it in a barn with a baby lamb in his arms.
Also? Granny Margot is an absolute menace and I love her. She’s got that chaotic senior energy that says, “Yes, I bake pies, but also I might plant evidence for fun.” More of her. Always.
This book has major “cozy Christmas chaos but make it murder” vibes. It’s not a breakneck thriller, and honestly, if you’re new to the series like I was, prepare to feel like you’ve walked into the middle of a long-running village soap opera where everyone knows each other’s secrets and passive-aggressions. But if you stick with it, the slow burn turns into a warm fire with just enough body count to keep it interesting.
Solid 3.5 stars. Slightly confusing start, fun middle, satisfying end. I might not have known what was going on all the time, but I was having a great time not knowing.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Turning “Behind the Scenes” Into a Threat, Not a Bonus Feature
Big thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. Nothing says holiday spirit like murder on live TV and a sheep silently judging your life choices. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go rename all my houseplants after fictional detectives and rewatch every British Christmas special with suspicion in my eyes.
August 22, 2025
I rarely jump into a series that has been around for a while, preferring to go back and start at the beginning. But the description of this book sounded so good I didn't want to wait until I'd read the previous five, so I decided to go ahead and read it. And I am so glad I did!
I loved the characters, especially Jude, the main character. She's such a grounded character, a widowed farmer who takes care of her animals and her family, who is involved in her small town. She takes things seriously, but also has a sense of humor and playfulness that especially comes through in the scenes with her young nephew.
In this sixth book, a popular national tv show is filming on Jude's farm--the show is there to provide programming of rural life as Christmas nears. Jude has agreed to have them there because she needs the money and while it is a bit inconvenient Jude doesn't think it will be all that bad. Right away, though, she realizes things could be bad indeed.
The producer is a horrible person, a bully and sexual predator, who uses his power and position to get his way. The married stars of the show are perhaps not as happily married in real life as they come across on the show. Then one of the stars nearly dies from an allergic reaction--was it an accident when everyone knew she couldn't even be in the room with peanuts? And then there's a murder . . .
As I mentioned before, this was the first book I'd read in the series, or by Kate Wells, but it definitely won't be the last. I loved the setting, the characters, and the believable way that Jude involved herself as an amateur sleuth. As she points out frequently, it's her farm and she has a right to be on site wherever clues might be found! Highly recommend!
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
I loved the characters, especially Jude, the main character. She's such a grounded character, a widowed farmer who takes care of her animals and her family, who is involved in her small town. She takes things seriously, but also has a sense of humor and playfulness that especially comes through in the scenes with her young nephew.
In this sixth book, a popular national tv show is filming on Jude's farm--the show is there to provide programming of rural life as Christmas nears. Jude has agreed to have them there because she needs the money and while it is a bit inconvenient Jude doesn't think it will be all that bad. Right away, though, she realizes things could be bad indeed.
The producer is a horrible person, a bully and sexual predator, who uses his power and position to get his way. The married stars of the show are perhaps not as happily married in real life as they come across on the show. Then one of the stars nearly dies from an allergic reaction--was it an accident when everyone knew she couldn't even be in the room with peanuts? And then there's a murder . . .
As I mentioned before, this was the first book I'd read in the series, or by Kate Wells, but it definitely won't be the last. I loved the setting, the characters, and the believable way that Jude involved herself as an amateur sleuth. As she points out frequently, it's her farm and she has a right to be on site wherever clues might be found! Highly recommend!
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
September 5, 2025
It’s the start of December and a very busy time for Jude Gray. Not only are there presents to buy and decorations to hang, there’s also the wedding of her sister Lucy to shepherd Noah a few days after Christmas to be organised and a farm full of animals to look after. To add to her workload, the stars and crew of Countryside Live have taken up residence at the campsite for three weeks to film and broadcast their first Christmas season of the very popular television show. However, it’s not long before events take a sinister turn. Annie, one half of the much-loved husband and wife presenting team, finds herself nearly dying from a drink tainted with the peanuts that she is so allergic to. An accident maybe, on a set where everyone has been instructed to be so careful, or did someone wish her harm? Then a cast member dies and it definitely looks like a case of murder to Jude. Together with her best friend DI Binnie Khatri, still recovering from her injuries gained in the last story, and DS Sami Abadi, Jude finds herself donning her sleuthing hat again. But with so many great suspects, including an odious predatory director and a bullying researcher, along with adulterous affairs and professional rivalries, where will they begin to search for a killer when they’re not even sure who the intended victim actually was? And can they solve the case in time for everyone to enjoy the planned celebrations?
It's great to see all the lovely regulars back again, including Marco, Frank, Lucy, Sebbie, Noah and of course the wonderful Granny Margot. This is another smashing twisty murder mystery in the series, full of endearing animals, lots of seasonal warmth and humour and some dark deeds on the farm.
It's great to see all the lovely regulars back again, including Marco, Frank, Lucy, Sebbie, Noah and of course the wonderful Granny Margot. This is another smashing twisty murder mystery in the series, full of endearing animals, lots of seasonal warmth and humour and some dark deeds on the farm.
September 7, 2025
Farmer-turned-sleuth Jude Gray has got another case on her hands in Kate Wells’ latest nail-biting mystery, A Very Merry Murder.
After inheriting Malvern Farm, Jude Gray never imagined that she would take to farming like she did. Now she simply cannot imagine doing anything else and although the work is hard and the hours are long, Jude is proud of how far she’s come and of all the love she pours into Malvern Farm. When a much-loved TV show asks to film the Christmas special on her land, Jude is absolutely delighted. However, she never imagined that she would find herself having to turn detective again!
A member of the crew is found dead in very suspicious circumstances and although it seems that this was a tragic accident, something isn’t adding up for Jude. When alibis start collapsing under pressure and dark secrets are revealed, Jude realises that the people on her land all had plenty of reasons for wanting the victim dead.
There’s not a lot of goodwill on Malvern Farm this Yuletide, but Jude won’t rest until she gets to the bottom of this case. Can she find out whodunnit before the killer strikes again? Or is she already far too late?
All Creatures Great and Small meets Midsomer Murders in this delightful series by Kate Wells. A Very Merry Murder is the latest instalment and it is a well-crafted and brilliantly-plotted rural cosy mystery that I devoured in a couple of hours. Packed with red herrings, shocking secrets and jaw-dropping revelations, A Very Merry Murder is an exciting and addictive crime novel that will keep readers glued to its pages!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
After inheriting Malvern Farm, Jude Gray never imagined that she would take to farming like she did. Now she simply cannot imagine doing anything else and although the work is hard and the hours are long, Jude is proud of how far she’s come and of all the love she pours into Malvern Farm. When a much-loved TV show asks to film the Christmas special on her land, Jude is absolutely delighted. However, she never imagined that she would find herself having to turn detective again!
A member of the crew is found dead in very suspicious circumstances and although it seems that this was a tragic accident, something isn’t adding up for Jude. When alibis start collapsing under pressure and dark secrets are revealed, Jude realises that the people on her land all had plenty of reasons for wanting the victim dead.
There’s not a lot of goodwill on Malvern Farm this Yuletide, but Jude won’t rest until she gets to the bottom of this case. Can she find out whodunnit before the killer strikes again? Or is she already far too late?
All Creatures Great and Small meets Midsomer Murders in this delightful series by Kate Wells. A Very Merry Murder is the latest instalment and it is a well-crafted and brilliantly-plotted rural cosy mystery that I devoured in a couple of hours. Packed with red herrings, shocking secrets and jaw-dropping revelations, A Very Merry Murder is an exciting and addictive crime novel that will keep readers glued to its pages!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 12, 2025
Jude is a strong and likable main character, a widow who owns and operates a sheep farm in the English countryside.
As if she doesn't already have enough to do, she has agreed to host her sister's wedding a few days after Christmas. Her life gets even busier when she agrees to allow a TV show to film a holiday special at her farm during the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Annie and Simon, a married couple, are the hosts of the popular TV show. They and their production team stay in camper trailers on the farm.
Tension and ill will among members of the cast and production team leads to a series of attacks and murders.
In the middle of it all, Jade snoops, eavesdrops and conducts her own investigation. Almost every clue is discovered by Jade and is passed along to the cops. Jade's heavy involvement in the case as well as the cops' light involvement doesn't feel realistic and stretches believability.
It is also difficult to believe that the show would continue even after the first murder. Surely it would have been shut down much sooner. But then we wouldn't have a story, would we?
The characters are well-developed and descriptions of the farm and the English countryside are good. The author does a good job of building suspense, exploring possible motivations for the crimes and casting light on various suspects. Part of the fun comes in guessing whodunnit.
Relationships among the characters are entertaining and intriguing. Jade has a close relationship with her sister, Lucy, and her family, especially her nephew, Sebbie. Jade's attraction to Marco, an old flame, adds to the depth of her character.
Despite its flaws, you will enjoy this charming, suspenseful holiday murder mystery.
As if she doesn't already have enough to do, she has agreed to host her sister's wedding a few days after Christmas. Her life gets even busier when she agrees to allow a TV show to film a holiday special at her farm during the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Annie and Simon, a married couple, are the hosts of the popular TV show. They and their production team stay in camper trailers on the farm.
Tension and ill will among members of the cast and production team leads to a series of attacks and murders.
In the middle of it all, Jade snoops, eavesdrops and conducts her own investigation. Almost every clue is discovered by Jade and is passed along to the cops. Jade's heavy involvement in the case as well as the cops' light involvement doesn't feel realistic and stretches believability.
It is also difficult to believe that the show would continue even after the first murder. Surely it would have been shut down much sooner. But then we wouldn't have a story, would we?
The characters are well-developed and descriptions of the farm and the English countryside are good. The author does a good job of building suspense, exploring possible motivations for the crimes and casting light on various suspects. Part of the fun comes in guessing whodunnit.
Relationships among the characters are entertaining and intriguing. Jade has a close relationship with her sister, Lucy, and her family, especially her nephew, Sebbie. Jade's attraction to Marco, an old flame, adds to the depth of her character.
Despite its flaws, you will enjoy this charming, suspenseful holiday murder mystery.
July 23, 2025
3.5 stars. I love both Christmas and murder mysteries, and I couldn’t wait to dig into this new-to-me author in A VERY MERRY MURDER.
The story takes place on a beautiful farm in wintry December. While it’s #6 in a series that I haven’t yet read, I got to know the characters quite easily through the backstory provided. Jude lives on the farm that she ran with her husband until his untimely death from cancer. Also helping out at the farm are her sister, Lucy, Lucy’s fiancé, Noah, and Lucy’s son, Sebbie.
It’s hard keeping the farm afloat, and so Jude agrees to allow a TV program, Countryside Live, film on the farm for three weeks in December in exchange for a hefty fee. But shortly after they start filming, a member of the crew dies suspiciously, leading Jude to investigate whether a murder has occurred.
While Jude’s irritated attitude towards the film crew was a bit off-putting at first, she grew on me as the story unfolded. The UK setting was pretty awesome, too. The supporting characters were great, especially Binnie, Jude’s DI friend from the police force, Granny Margot, an elderly friend of Jude’s who loves a good mystery, and Marco, Jude’s friend and former love interest.
The mystery was interesting and there were lots of suspects, but the pacing slowed a bit towards the middle. Thankfully, it picked up towards the end.
Overall, despite the fact that murders were involved, this was a sweet and wholesome story. I’m looking forward to continuing the series!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story takes place on a beautiful farm in wintry December. While it’s #6 in a series that I haven’t yet read, I got to know the characters quite easily through the backstory provided. Jude lives on the farm that she ran with her husband until his untimely death from cancer. Also helping out at the farm are her sister, Lucy, Lucy’s fiancé, Noah, and Lucy’s son, Sebbie.
It’s hard keeping the farm afloat, and so Jude agrees to allow a TV program, Countryside Live, film on the farm for three weeks in December in exchange for a hefty fee. But shortly after they start filming, a member of the crew dies suspiciously, leading Jude to investigate whether a murder has occurred.
While Jude’s irritated attitude towards the film crew was a bit off-putting at first, she grew on me as the story unfolded. The UK setting was pretty awesome, too. The supporting characters were great, especially Binnie, Jude’s DI friend from the police force, Granny Margot, an elderly friend of Jude’s who loves a good mystery, and Marco, Jude’s friend and former love interest.
The mystery was interesting and there were lots of suspects, but the pacing slowed a bit towards the middle. Thankfully, it picked up towards the end.
Overall, despite the fact that murders were involved, this was a sweet and wholesome story. I’m looking forward to continuing the series!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2025
My sixth visit to Malvern Farm took place over the snowy month of December. Jude Gray, along with her family and friends, welcomed me like I’d never left. The most recent instalment of this mystery series took “cozy” to a whole new level—filled with fuzzy mittens, mugs of hot chocolate, and Christmas preparations.
Jude’s sister Lucy is marrying her handsome beau, the farmhand Noah, and Jude is her maid of honour. But a Christmastime wedding isn’t the only thing happening on the farm this winter. Jude has agreed to host the upcoming Countryside Live holiday special and is welcoming the cast and crew onto her farmland.
Despite the director being a real piece of work, he made Jude an offer she couldn’t resist, with three weeks of filming generating as much income as an entire lambing season on the farm. However, after some mysterious accidents and foul play, she suddenly wishes she had refused, realising that money isn’t everything and it’s no longer worth it.
I loved this book. This series holds a very special place in my heart. I was so happy for Lucy in this book, and there are some joyful moments for Jude as well. Sebbie, Jude’s nephew (Lucy’s son), is growing up and is such a delight. The farm is always a wonderful extra character in the story. I definitely recommend this book to lovers of the series, and I hope it will be a cozy holiday read for new readers as well!
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can’t wait for my next visit!
Jude’s sister Lucy is marrying her handsome beau, the farmhand Noah, and Jude is her maid of honour. But a Christmastime wedding isn’t the only thing happening on the farm this winter. Jude has agreed to host the upcoming Countryside Live holiday special and is welcoming the cast and crew onto her farmland.
Despite the director being a real piece of work, he made Jude an offer she couldn’t resist, with three weeks of filming generating as much income as an entire lambing season on the farm. However, after some mysterious accidents and foul play, she suddenly wishes she had refused, realising that money isn’t everything and it’s no longer worth it.
I loved this book. This series holds a very special place in my heart. I was so happy for Lucy in this book, and there are some joyful moments for Jude as well. Sebbie, Jude’s nephew (Lucy’s son), is growing up and is such a delight. The farm is always a wonderful extra character in the story. I definitely recommend this book to lovers of the series, and I hope it will be a cozy holiday read for new readers as well!
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can’t wait for my next visit!
September 8, 2025
The quiet life of Malvern Farm was about to become seriously disrupted by the arrival of a film crew to carry out live broadcasts for the hit TV Show Countryside Live in the lead up to Christmas.
Jude Gray is preparing for the wedding of her sister Lucy after Christmas and is hopeful all will go well with the preparations and the filming of the Christmas Special, but it is only days into the arrival of the film crew when the best laid plans begin to falter.
The Director, Dean is demanding, Annie Bird, beloved presenter of the show, along with her husband Simon North, has an anaphylactic reaction on camera and Mary, one of the camera crew is found dead.
Kate Wells sets the scene for an intriguing murder mystery in A Very Merry Murder which once again sees Jude doing her best to keep out of trying to solve a murder, coping with the endless demands of Dean, as she reminds herself that the money will come in useful, and juggling her daily tasks of looking after the livestock on her lovely farm.
When a second murder is committed Jude realises she is the best person to watch and see what is going on within the film crew, as so many small things she has noticed over the past week simply don’t add up. Suspicion falls on all the members of the film crew, particularly Simon North, but once again, nothing quite fits!
Sit back and enjoy this latest cozy murder from Kate Wells set in the charming and peaceful English Countryside of Malvern, with a real twist in the tale and see if you can work out ‘who did it’ before the final page.
Jude Gray is preparing for the wedding of her sister Lucy after Christmas and is hopeful all will go well with the preparations and the filming of the Christmas Special, but it is only days into the arrival of the film crew when the best laid plans begin to falter.
The Director, Dean is demanding, Annie Bird, beloved presenter of the show, along with her husband Simon North, has an anaphylactic reaction on camera and Mary, one of the camera crew is found dead.
Kate Wells sets the scene for an intriguing murder mystery in A Very Merry Murder which once again sees Jude doing her best to keep out of trying to solve a murder, coping with the endless demands of Dean, as she reminds herself that the money will come in useful, and juggling her daily tasks of looking after the livestock on her lovely farm.
When a second murder is committed Jude realises she is the best person to watch and see what is going on within the film crew, as so many small things she has noticed over the past week simply don’t add up. Suspicion falls on all the members of the film crew, particularly Simon North, but once again, nothing quite fits!
Sit back and enjoy this latest cozy murder from Kate Wells set in the charming and peaceful English Countryside of Malvern, with a real twist in the tale and see if you can work out ‘who did it’ before the final page.
July 24, 2025
A Very Merry Murder finds Jude Gray preparing for the arrival of a beloved national television crew filming their Christmas special at Malvern Farm—an honour she hardly expected after embracing a quieter life. But as the cameras roll, tragedy strikes, and a shadow falls over the season of goodwill.
What follows is a beautifully paced tale, rich with atmosphere and finely drawn characters. Wells evokes the frosty beauty of the Malvern Hills and the tension of small-town secrets with an elegant hand. Jude remains a luminous protagonist—intelligent, resilient, and deeply relatable as she navigates both the quiet rhythms of farm life and the sharp disruptions of murder. The setting is beautifully festive without being overdone—mistletoe and mince pies meet secrets and suspicion. Kate Wells gives us an engaging mystery that unravels in layers, with red herrings aplenty and a satisfying conclusion. Jude remains a grounded and likeable lead: smart, capable, and a little stubborn in the best way.
This latest instalment of the Malvern Mysteries is perfect for readers seeking depth within their cosy crime: a narrative with warmth and wit that never sacrifices sophistication. If you enjoy a countryside caper with holiday cheer and heart, this one’s a winner. I didn’t want to put it down—and I’ll definitely be tuning in for Jude’s next adventure.
with thanks to Kate Wells, the publisher and Net Galley for the ARC.
What follows is a beautifully paced tale, rich with atmosphere and finely drawn characters. Wells evokes the frosty beauty of the Malvern Hills and the tension of small-town secrets with an elegant hand. Jude remains a luminous protagonist—intelligent, resilient, and deeply relatable as she navigates both the quiet rhythms of farm life and the sharp disruptions of murder. The setting is beautifully festive without being overdone—mistletoe and mince pies meet secrets and suspicion. Kate Wells gives us an engaging mystery that unravels in layers, with red herrings aplenty and a satisfying conclusion. Jude remains a grounded and likeable lead: smart, capable, and a little stubborn in the best way.
This latest instalment of the Malvern Mysteries is perfect for readers seeking depth within their cosy crime: a narrative with warmth and wit that never sacrifices sophistication. If you enjoy a countryside caper with holiday cheer and heart, this one’s a winner. I didn’t want to put it down—and I’ll definitely be tuning in for Jude’s next adventure.
with thanks to Kate Wells, the publisher and Net Galley for the ARC.
December 9, 2025
Jude Gray is doing wonders since she inherited Malvern Farm. In fact, she has become a celebrity in the world of rural living so that a national TV show wants to film their Christmas special at her farm. Shortly after they begin filming, things start to happen. The female star has an anaphylaxis reaction while taping, and then one of the crew is found dead. Anyone on set could be the killer so they are all suspect. Besides that, there is a lot of behind the scenes drama, including suspicion of infidelity. If Jude is going to solve this mystery, she needs to dig deep, and find out who the intended victim is and who the killer is, before there is yet another death. With lies, secrets, and twists, I wasn't sure who the killer was.
this is another instance of me jumping into a series midway, and some things worked, but others had me wondering what was going on. When it comes to the mystery, I was intrigued. It was a bit of a closed door mystery, as it had to be someone on set who was the culprit. As the story unfolded, there were a few suspects that were front and center, but they seemed too obvious and I was right. The final twist had me shaking my head and saying, "Yes" perfect choice. Now when it comes to the personal stories of Jude and her friends, I was a bit lost as I had not read the previous books. Having said that, I will be going back and starting at #1, Murder on the Farm, to get all the back stories. An enjoyable mystery that I recommend.
this is another instance of me jumping into a series midway, and some things worked, but others had me wondering what was going on. When it comes to the mystery, I was intrigued. It was a bit of a closed door mystery, as it had to be someone on set who was the culprit. As the story unfolded, there were a few suspects that were front and center, but they seemed too obvious and I was right. The final twist had me shaking my head and saying, "Yes" perfect choice. Now when it comes to the personal stories of Jude and her friends, I was a bit lost as I had not read the previous books. Having said that, I will be going back and starting at #1, Murder on the Farm, to get all the back stories. An enjoyable mystery that I recommend.
July 31, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read "A Very Merry Murder" in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is book six in the wonderful Malvern Mysteries series. It's December 1st and Jude Gray is busy preparing for Christmas, her sister Lucy's wedding and her paddock is full of television people filming for the next 3 weeks for a Christmas series. What could possibly go wrong with all this happening?
An allergic reaction starts things off and a missing EpiPen. Next there appears to be a murder. An obnoxious television producer is making Jude regret agreeing to the land being used. Are the husband and wife presenters really as happy as they try to pretend. Another murder happens and Jude discovers that there are messages being sent in plastic snack tubs and she's investigating. Jude often forgets that she is a famer and not on the police payroll when she is putting herself in grave danger.
The suspect in this case is surprising, followed by a twist that brings about some tense and exciting scenes.
Lucy and Noah have a wonderful wedding and there might be good news for Jude and Marco as well.
Granny Margot has a good number of scenes in the book which is wonderful because she is my favourite character because she is always keen to talk murders with Jude.
This is book six in the wonderful Malvern Mysteries series. It's December 1st and Jude Gray is busy preparing for Christmas, her sister Lucy's wedding and her paddock is full of television people filming for the next 3 weeks for a Christmas series. What could possibly go wrong with all this happening?
An allergic reaction starts things off and a missing EpiPen. Next there appears to be a murder. An obnoxious television producer is making Jude regret agreeing to the land being used. Are the husband and wife presenters really as happy as they try to pretend. Another murder happens and Jude discovers that there are messages being sent in plastic snack tubs and she's investigating. Jude often forgets that she is a famer and not on the police payroll when she is putting herself in grave danger.
The suspect in this case is surprising, followed by a twist that brings about some tense and exciting scenes.
Lucy and Noah have a wonderful wedding and there might be good news for Jude and Marco as well.
Granny Margot has a good number of scenes in the book which is wonderful because she is my favourite character because she is always keen to talk murders with Jude.
August 21, 2025
Nothing pleases me more than picking up a book from a series (not knowing it's from a series) and enjoying it from cover to cover, which exactly what happened with A Very Merry Murder by Kate Wells.
I didn't realise that it is book 6 of the Malvern Farm Mystery series, but you can still jump right in without any confusion as to who's who.
This festive mystery has everything I love: a TV show filming at Jude’s farm brings disruption, drama, and, soon enough, a suspicious death.
There’s no shortage of motives or suspects, and the tangled web of secrets kept me guessing throughout. The mystery’s plot and pacing are spot-on, with each character feeling distinct and real.
But it’s not all crime and chaos! There's an upcoming wedding, and Jude has her own slow-burning romance with Marco, which brings just the right sparkle.
It’s a solid book with depth, never relying on clichéd festive fluff or overused tropes. Jude herself is a refreshingly smart, brave, and relatable heroine who is a risk-taker but never reckless.
If you want a cozy, cleverly-plotted holiday whodunit with a little warmth alongside the suspense, A Very Merry Murder is highly recommended. I’ll definitely be going back to book one!
With thanks to NetGalley for the early copy in return for an honest review.
I didn't realise that it is book 6 of the Malvern Farm Mystery series, but you can still jump right in without any confusion as to who's who.
This festive mystery has everything I love: a TV show filming at Jude’s farm brings disruption, drama, and, soon enough, a suspicious death.
There’s no shortage of motives or suspects, and the tangled web of secrets kept me guessing throughout. The mystery’s plot and pacing are spot-on, with each character feeling distinct and real.
But it’s not all crime and chaos! There's an upcoming wedding, and Jude has her own slow-burning romance with Marco, which brings just the right sparkle.
It’s a solid book with depth, never relying on clichéd festive fluff or overused tropes. Jude herself is a refreshingly smart, brave, and relatable heroine who is a risk-taker but never reckless.
If you want a cozy, cleverly-plotted holiday whodunit with a little warmth alongside the suspense, A Very Merry Murder is highly recommended. I’ll definitely be going back to book one!
With thanks to NetGalley for the early copy in return for an honest review.
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