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Anon, Sir, Anon: A Vivi & Farnham Mystery
The 12:55 out of Darlington brought more than Orville Farnham's niece; murder was passenger.
In coming to Whistlecreig, Genevieve Langley expected to find an ailing uncle in need of gentle care. In reality, her charge is a cantankerous Shakespearean actor with a penchant for fencing and an affinity for placing impossible bets.
When a body shows up in a field near Whistlecreig Manor and Vivi is the only one to recognize the victim, she is unceremoniously baptized into the art of crime-solving: a field in which first impressions are seldom lasting and personal interest knocks at the front door.
Set against the russet backdrop of a Northamptonshire fog, Anon, Sir, Anon cuts a cozy path to a chilling crime.
In coming to Whistlecreig, Genevieve Langley expected to find an ailing uncle in need of gentle care. In reality, her charge is a cantankerous Shakespearean actor with a penchant for fencing and an affinity for placing impossible bets.
When a body shows up in a field near Whistlecreig Manor and Vivi is the only one to recognize the victim, she is unceremoniously baptized into the art of crime-solving: a field in which first impressions are seldom lasting and personal interest knocks at the front door.
Set against the russet backdrop of a Northamptonshire fog, Anon, Sir, Anon cuts a cozy path to a chilling crime.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2014
91 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Heffington
6 books84 followersRachel Heffington is a Christian, a novelist, and a people-lover. Outside of the realm of words, Rachel enjoys the Arts, traveling, mucking about in the kitchen, listening for accents, and making people laugh. She dwells in rural Virginia with her boisterous family and her black cat, Cricket.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 26, 2014
Going Into It...
I've enjoyed English mysteries for years, despite overdosing somewhat on Agatha Christie. I was thus understandably peached to discover that Rachel Heffington was turning her attention from 1920s New York (Fly Away Home) to the a murder mystery set in the November fogs of Northamptonshire. On the other hand, murder mysteries are tough. It's very easy for a writer to overplay his hand, very difficult to be original. I went in with interest piqued but expectations uncertain. Oh, and the cover. The cover is gorgeous.
First Impressions...
Heffington loses none of her signature whimsy and tongue-in-cheek charm as she moves from one genre to another. Several turns of phrase got a laugh out of me (at the right moments for the right reasons) or simply made me enviously appreciative: "[Scandal] felt invigorating, he noticed, like a dash of cayenne on an egg over-easy." Heffington's debut novel was sturdy and capable, but as I got further into ANON, SIR, ANON, I sensed that this one had taken it up several notches.
The characters? It took a bit. Vivi ("the sensible one") and Farnham ("the eccentric") had to rub shoulders for a few chapters before I really began to like their chemistry. Allen at first seemed Jeeves-like, but showed his metal in the fencing scene. I scented a fishy air about Doctor Breen. No spoilers, but - suspicious. The two young men at first seemed familiar - as in, these personalities I have seen before - but Heffington played them well. The game of Shakespearean quotes did its part in cementing the characters and their interactions, for which credit must be given to Heffington's use of obscurer lines than "Out, damn spot" and its ilk.
Atmosphere. ANON, SIR, ANON has got atmosphere. This may be owing more to my preference for an English countryside setting over the streets of New York, but Heffington conjured up Whistlecreig and its environs. The Rowan Walk and the way it fitted into the puzzle was deliciously creepy. It was possibly my favorite element.
By The End...
It sounds bad to say that the ending was the best part of a novel, but I thought Heffington pulled it off with aplomb: especially noteworthy because, again, murder mysteries are hard to get right. I was resigned to being disappointed, but she disappointed my disappointment. She turned my expectations on their collective heads. In addition, she treated the whole murder business with appropriate feeling: it wasn't all "Hurray, a murder! Now we have something to do!" She treated it as it is, something disturbing, something evil.
...But she still surprises one.
I've enjoyed English mysteries for years, despite overdosing somewhat on Agatha Christie. I was thus understandably peached to discover that Rachel Heffington was turning her attention from 1920s New York (Fly Away Home) to the a murder mystery set in the November fogs of Northamptonshire. On the other hand, murder mysteries are tough. It's very easy for a writer to overplay his hand, very difficult to be original. I went in with interest piqued but expectations uncertain. Oh, and the cover. The cover is gorgeous.
First Impressions...
Heffington loses none of her signature whimsy and tongue-in-cheek charm as she moves from one genre to another. Several turns of phrase got a laugh out of me (at the right moments for the right reasons) or simply made me enviously appreciative: "[Scandal] felt invigorating, he noticed, like a dash of cayenne on an egg over-easy." Heffington's debut novel was sturdy and capable, but as I got further into ANON, SIR, ANON, I sensed that this one had taken it up several notches.
The characters? It took a bit. Vivi ("the sensible one") and Farnham ("the eccentric") had to rub shoulders for a few chapters before I really began to like their chemistry. Allen at first seemed Jeeves-like, but showed his metal in the fencing scene. I scented a fishy air about Doctor Breen. No spoilers, but - suspicious. The two young men at first seemed familiar - as in, these personalities I have seen before - but Heffington played them well. The game of Shakespearean quotes did its part in cementing the characters and their interactions, for which credit must be given to Heffington's use of obscurer lines than "Out, damn spot" and its ilk.
Atmosphere. ANON, SIR, ANON has got atmosphere. This may be owing more to my preference for an English countryside setting over the streets of New York, but Heffington conjured up Whistlecreig and its environs. The Rowan Walk and the way it fitted into the puzzle was deliciously creepy. It was possibly my favorite element.
By The End...
It sounds bad to say that the ending was the best part of a novel, but I thought Heffington pulled it off with aplomb: especially noteworthy because, again, murder mysteries are hard to get right. I was resigned to being disappointed, but she disappointed my disappointment. She turned my expectations on their collective heads. In addition, she treated the whole murder business with appropriate feeling: it wasn't all "Hurray, a murder! Now we have something to do!" She treated it as it is, something disturbing, something evil.
...But she still surprises one.
December 26, 2015
This book was a lark! Witty and often unexpected...I stayed up til 1:30 to finish it! Didn't manage to put it down once.
June 10, 2016
I'm not quite sure what I was expecting from this book, but I was certainly surprised to find a warm, cozy theme winding its way through Whistlecreig's countryside. There were foxes, there were warm cups of tea on chilly nights. There were golden afternoons, forest walks, crackling fires, and scones.
But in the midst of all this whimsy, there was murder.
From the opening line, I was hooked. Farnham is one of the most memorable characters in all the books I've read this year, and I absolutely loved his and Vivi's interaction together. The heroes were each so very endearing, and the mystery itself--well, I was stumped!
And while much of the dialogue is playful banter, the murder is never taken lightly--something I appreciated in Heffington's writing. In many ways, I felt as though I was reading a human version of The Mistmantle Chronicles, or perhaps The Wind in the Willows. ANON, SIR, ANON captured that same delightful, whimsical feel.
I recommend this book to lovers of P. G. Woodhouse and Agatha Christie--but beware! Once invested in this book, you just might find yourself developing a desire to visit the golden countryside of Whistlecreig, and a yearning to quote some Shakespeare.
But in the midst of all this whimsy, there was murder.
From the opening line, I was hooked. Farnham is one of the most memorable characters in all the books I've read this year, and I absolutely loved his and Vivi's interaction together. The heroes were each so very endearing, and the mystery itself--well, I was stumped!
And while much of the dialogue is playful banter, the murder is never taken lightly--something I appreciated in Heffington's writing. In many ways, I felt as though I was reading a human version of The Mistmantle Chronicles, or perhaps The Wind in the Willows. ANON, SIR, ANON captured that same delightful, whimsical feel.
I recommend this book to lovers of P. G. Woodhouse and Agatha Christie--but beware! Once invested in this book, you just might find yourself developing a desire to visit the golden countryside of Whistlecreig, and a yearning to quote some Shakespeare.
September 25, 2014
"Life was much gentler at home, much more vivid here...She liked vivid; it kicked like mustard."
When Genevieve Langley arrives at Whistlecreig Manor to play nurse to her uncle, a Shakespearean actor who has been suffering from ill-health, nothing that she finds is what she expected. Orville Farnham is a man of sharp tongue and old-fashioned habits, whose sideline, as Vivi discovers on her very first evening at Whistlecreig, is solving crimes. The body of an American actress discovered in a foggy meadow turns Vivi from amateur nurse to assistant amateur detective, applying her own wits to the case alongside her eternally surprising uncle and navigating rather unsettling relationships with a couple of the suspects.
Whether you're a mystery lover or not, you'll be charmed by the characters in this novel—the early scenes where sensible Vivi and the irascible but admirable Farnham gradually get to know and respect each other are among my favorites. An uncle-niece detective team is a wonderfully fresh idea, especially when these two are the uncle and niece. The writing in general is even better than in Heffington's debut novel Fly Away Home: the dialogue, especially between Vivi, Farnham and his jovial longtime friend Dr. Breen, snaps with wit and spirit, and I loved the way the Shakespearean references fit neatly into the plot; the descriptions of Northamptonshire in autumn are lovely; and Vivi's perceptive reactions to her surroundings in a few scenes in particular really pull the reader into her world and make her a very human and relatable character.
Hardcore mystery fans might find character development among the suspects a little lacking; it seems like a few of them get off without much scrutiny, and we don't get more than hints about what kind of people they really are. (But I will say, I'd thought I knew where things were headed as the suspects were gradually narrowed down, but there was still one major switch at the climax that really surprised me!) This is one mystery where the detectives themselves are by far the deepest and most lifelike characters—but that's certainly no hardship when the detectives are such charming and quirky people as Vivi and Farnham. And one thing I like about the mystery element is that it isn't treated as simply a formula: Vivi feels, and we feel, the inherent tragedy involved in any crime and the underlying seriousness of the quest for the killer, despite all the banter along the way. The final scene of the book is really a treasure, and lays the ground, I hope, for more adventures from Vivi and Farnham in the future!
April 12, 2015
Like most reviewers, I was charmed by the warmth and humor of Heffington's novella, The Windy Side of Care. I was therefore delighted to discover her latest novel, a Shakespearian mystery.
When Vivi set out to nurse her ill uncle, she had no intention of being involved with murder. But when her train brings the death of a young, notorious woman, only Vivi can identify her-- and only Vivi, with the help of her Shakespearian uncle, can see through the pastoral countryside façade to the dark secrets that lurk beneath.
When I read Anon, Sir, Anon, I was hardly the cultured mystery-fan you now see before you. (Well... read before you.) I had read just enough to believe I didn't like it. Although the rapid unveiling at the end enthralled me, I had to endure a few hundred pages of dry, mostly irrelevant details to reach it. Mystery novels also gave me the unsettling sense that I was unbearably dull when I inevitably failed to guess who'd done it.
I couldn't reconcile these two images: Heffington's lively voice and my own gloomy experiences with mystery. So I had to read Anon, Sir, Anon.
The loveliness of it blew me away. Shakespeare, murder, mystery-- but beneath it all, this sense of solid, homey Englishness that tied all the threads together into something delightfully warm, like a sweater. Or a tea cozy.
The characters in particular make Anon, Sir, Anon so wonderful. An eccentric, Shakespearian actor of an uncle; a self-proclaimed jilted lover-- the list goes on. Of all the characters, only one fell flat for me, and she had the great misfortune to be Vivi.
I found her a faint shadow of what I, a modern American, really wanted to read about: a high-spirited, strong-willed English girl. I feel like Heffington tried hard to avoid this archetype in the interest of originality, but it is an archetype that works and is beloved, and the story needed it. Vivi was strong-willed and sensible, but she lacked the feistiness and fun that would've brought this story to five stars.
Anon, Sir, Anon was lovely. It was highly enjoyable. And... it wasn't really a mystery. Sure, there was a body and a missing murderer, but searching for clues led to entertaining character interaction and not much else. The mystery spun itself out into clarity, and Vivi and Farnham didn't have much to do with it.
Just as this was Vivi's first mystery, it was also Ms. Heffington's first mystery novel. And all in all, Anon, Sir, Anon was charming, witty, and delightful. I give it a solid four stars and highly recommend it.
When Vivi set out to nurse her ill uncle, she had no intention of being involved with murder. But when her train brings the death of a young, notorious woman, only Vivi can identify her-- and only Vivi, with the help of her Shakespearian uncle, can see through the pastoral countryside façade to the dark secrets that lurk beneath.
When I read Anon, Sir, Anon, I was hardly the cultured mystery-fan you now see before you. (Well... read before you.) I had read just enough to believe I didn't like it. Although the rapid unveiling at the end enthralled me, I had to endure a few hundred pages of dry, mostly irrelevant details to reach it. Mystery novels also gave me the unsettling sense that I was unbearably dull when I inevitably failed to guess who'd done it.
I couldn't reconcile these two images: Heffington's lively voice and my own gloomy experiences with mystery. So I had to read Anon, Sir, Anon.
The loveliness of it blew me away. Shakespeare, murder, mystery-- but beneath it all, this sense of solid, homey Englishness that tied all the threads together into something delightfully warm, like a sweater. Or a tea cozy.
The characters in particular make Anon, Sir, Anon so wonderful. An eccentric, Shakespearian actor of an uncle; a self-proclaimed jilted lover-- the list goes on. Of all the characters, only one fell flat for me, and she had the great misfortune to be Vivi.
I found her a faint shadow of what I, a modern American, really wanted to read about: a high-spirited, strong-willed English girl. I feel like Heffington tried hard to avoid this archetype in the interest of originality, but it is an archetype that works and is beloved, and the story needed it. Vivi was strong-willed and sensible, but she lacked the feistiness and fun that would've brought this story to five stars.
Anon, Sir, Anon was lovely. It was highly enjoyable. And... it wasn't really a mystery. Sure, there was a body and a missing murderer, but searching for clues led to entertaining character interaction and not much else. The mystery spun itself out into clarity, and Vivi and Farnham didn't have much to do with it.
Just as this was Vivi's first mystery, it was also Ms. Heffington's first mystery novel. And all in all, Anon, Sir, Anon was charming, witty, and delightful. I give it a solid four stars and highly recommend it.
January 23, 2017
4.5 stars, but I have to round upward because I was just so delighted with this book.
In the introduction, the author says that she hopes her readers "will let Vivi and Farnham into the ranks of the British Detective." I say yes with a right good will! I love these two. They are so funny, delightful, entertaining, and well developed, with a unique and hilarious rapport. Their friend Dr. Breen is a perfect third to their sleuthing party.
I also really enjoyed Ms. Heffington's writing style. It's refreshingly distinctive and vividly descriptive, lots of fun with one-of-a-kind similes and metaphors that keep your mind dancing . . . "as if waiting for him to puff up like a hoighty cock-robin" was one that set me laughing. The Shakespeare quotes were highly enjoyable, too.
The only drawback for me was that I saw where the mystery was going before it got there . . . I like to be utterly shocked when "who did it" is revealed, but I saw this coming, so that was a bit disappointing. But that's not a guarantee that everyone will guess (I usually don't guess correctly, myself). And I questioned some of the characters' actions, if they would really make some of the choices that they did, but they ended up strongly second-guessing themselves. Sometimes detectives just need to be more impulsive to figure something out, I suppose. :)
But Vivi, Farnham, and their friends, northern England, and Ms. Heffington's style setting more than made up for any of that. I hope we get to read more of these two's adventures.
In the introduction, the author says that she hopes her readers "will let Vivi and Farnham into the ranks of the British Detective." I say yes with a right good will! I love these two. They are so funny, delightful, entertaining, and well developed, with a unique and hilarious rapport. Their friend Dr. Breen is a perfect third to their sleuthing party.
I also really enjoyed Ms. Heffington's writing style. It's refreshingly distinctive and vividly descriptive, lots of fun with one-of-a-kind similes and metaphors that keep your mind dancing . . . "as if waiting for him to puff up like a hoighty cock-robin" was one that set me laughing. The Shakespeare quotes were highly enjoyable, too.
The only drawback for me was that I saw where the mystery was going before it got there . . . I like to be utterly shocked when "who did it" is revealed, but I saw this coming, so that was a bit disappointing. But that's not a guarantee that everyone will guess (I usually don't guess correctly, myself). And I questioned some of the characters' actions, if they would really make some of the choices that they did, but they ended up strongly second-guessing themselves. Sometimes detectives just need to be more impulsive to figure something out, I suppose. :)
But Vivi, Farnham, and their friends, northern England, and Ms. Heffington's style setting more than made up for any of that. I hope we get to read more of these two's adventures.
December 29, 2014
"How are you around blood?"
"Oh my. Is there an injury?"
"It's a bit worse than that, Miss Langley: there's a murder."
Some books beg to be read at certain times of year. With its foggy Northamptonshire setting, ANON, SIR, ANON makes the perfect fireside mystery for a November evening. Heffington's quaint descriptions swept me along immediately and warmed me to the little town of Whistlecrieg. Manor, Rowan Walk, and surrounding countryside are all painted in vibrant, tangible tones. Genevieve Langley and her idiosyncratic uncle, Orville Farnham, took a bit more time to grow on me. Their snappy banter, suitable enough in Heffington's debut, FLY AWAY HOME, did not seem to flow smoothly at the first; in time, however, it settled into its own comfortable rhythm, peppered liberally with obscure Shakespearean references (which was fantastic, I might add). I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as the story ran its course. Vivi and Farnham are a pair to watch.
Though the murder itself began as a simple concept, Heffington executed its tangled threads with finely-honed finesse. I had an inclination towards the true culprit that grew stronger in time, but my confidence wavered at a few points, owing to the author's ability to draw each various suspect into equal shadow. She handled the tension well: halfway through the mystery, I found it increasingly impossible to put down, and the climax itself unfolded a whole new dimension that I had never anticipated. The denouement was refreshing in its gravity towards the bloodshed. Murder is no game for the purpose of amusing one's intellect, and through her characters' solemnity and heartfelt sorrow, Heffington impresses this truth on her readers. The last scene drew the book together well with equal dashes of warmth and wit.
ANON, SIR, ANON, the first in a series of Vivi & Farnham Mysteries, sets the stage nicely for future delightful installments.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
"Oh my. Is there an injury?"
"It's a bit worse than that, Miss Langley: there's a murder."
Some books beg to be read at certain times of year. With its foggy Northamptonshire setting, ANON, SIR, ANON makes the perfect fireside mystery for a November evening. Heffington's quaint descriptions swept me along immediately and warmed me to the little town of Whistlecrieg. Manor, Rowan Walk, and surrounding countryside are all painted in vibrant, tangible tones. Genevieve Langley and her idiosyncratic uncle, Orville Farnham, took a bit more time to grow on me. Their snappy banter, suitable enough in Heffington's debut, FLY AWAY HOME, did not seem to flow smoothly at the first; in time, however, it settled into its own comfortable rhythm, peppered liberally with obscure Shakespearean references (which was fantastic, I might add). I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as the story ran its course. Vivi and Farnham are a pair to watch.
Though the murder itself began as a simple concept, Heffington executed its tangled threads with finely-honed finesse. I had an inclination towards the true culprit that grew stronger in time, but my confidence wavered at a few points, owing to the author's ability to draw each various suspect into equal shadow. She handled the tension well: halfway through the mystery, I found it increasingly impossible to put down, and the climax itself unfolded a whole new dimension that I had never anticipated. The denouement was refreshing in its gravity towards the bloodshed. Murder is no game for the purpose of amusing one's intellect, and through her characters' solemnity and heartfelt sorrow, Heffington impresses this truth on her readers. The last scene drew the book together well with equal dashes of warmth and wit.
ANON, SIR, ANON, the first in a series of Vivi & Farnham Mysteries, sets the stage nicely for future delightful installments.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
November 3, 2015
Spoiler free review coming soon :)
April 30, 2015
First of all, I LOVE Rachel Heffington's novels. But this one probably blows the other one and a half outta the water. Oh so good! The humor! The wit!
Mysteries have always been dearly loved by me. I suppose in part, because I am gullible and easy to surprise. . . but nonetheless, they are quite intriguing and enjoyable.
Dear Ms. Heffington crafted an excellent tale of murder, fun, and intrigue. The characters were realistic and well fleshed out. The relationship between young Vivi and her strange, bachelor uncle was hilarious! Their wit and constant confrontation never left a dull moment, and you could definitely sense their fondness for each other.
All in all, this is one of my absolute favorites. I can't wait for the next Vivi & Farnham mystery!! If you are in need of a good read and love puzzles, I'm sure you'll enjoy this one...
To read the full review, visit my blog! Sarah, Plain & Average: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
Mysteries have always been dearly loved by me. I suppose in part, because I am gullible and easy to surprise. . . but nonetheless, they are quite intriguing and enjoyable.
Dear Ms. Heffington crafted an excellent tale of murder, fun, and intrigue. The characters were realistic and well fleshed out. The relationship between young Vivi and her strange, bachelor uncle was hilarious! Their wit and constant confrontation never left a dull moment, and you could definitely sense their fondness for each other.
All in all, this is one of my absolute favorites. I can't wait for the next Vivi & Farnham mystery!! If you are in need of a good read and love puzzles, I'm sure you'll enjoy this one...
To read the full review, visit my blog! Sarah, Plain & Average: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
May 21, 2017
I hold a certain fondness for this book—not unlike Farnham's relationship with his niece. I am immensely proud of my friend, Rachel Heffington, for having written a book (not that I believed she couldn't, etc., but that it is an accomplishment). And while there was less Sherlockian, blatant clue-hunting/-discussing than I assumed there would be, it really painted a picture of how this would happen, were amateur detectives to investigate a murder. The way it was written really made the people and places come alive to me, as though they actually existed, and Whistlecreig actually a place.
September 22, 2014
Anon, Sir, Anon is Rachel Heffington's second novel. I've also had the pleasure of reading Fly Away Home (read my review here) and her novella The Windy Side of Care, both of which were lots of fun.
Anon, Sir, Anon knocks those two out of the park.
Full review available on my blog, Vintage Novels.
Anon, Sir, Anon knocks those two out of the park.
Full review available on my blog, Vintage Novels.
December 21, 2019
I immensely enjoyed this book! It's on par with any YA/adult historical mystery best-selling book out there -- for anyone who enjoys a good old-fashioned British murder (with a splash of comedy). Definitely for fans of the Flavia de Luce series.
Author Rachel Heffington is obviously a lover of words, a grammar aficionado, and a learned student/fan of Shakespeare himself. Her writing style is brilliant, pithy, and keeps a lovely British banter going for ages. The wittiness of it all is divine.
Farnham himself pops off Shakespearean proverbs as if they provide Biblical wisdom in any and all instances. I can't help from seeing the Holmes and Watson type of similarities too, found in Farnham and his doctor friend, Breen.
It's such a cozy type story. I feel like I've truly met and talked with these characters, and feel like I've visited Whistlecrieg a few times in person -- and would be excited to go back.
I naively assumed there would be a sequel -- the characters lend themselves easily to the making of more stories about them. However, upon my online research, I found no such sequel. (Yet.) I will hold out hope that Miss Heffington will supply us with a sequel at a later date. Also, I'll be waiting on a future movie to appear -- because this would make for an entertaining movie, for sure.
Contains some grammatical errors, but I looooove the story so much, I can overlook that flaw.
Content: Fairly clean, with subtle hints at mature topics, hints of impropriety. Mild swearing/euphemisms.
Minimum age to read: 15 and up.
Author Rachel Heffington is obviously a lover of words, a grammar aficionado, and a learned student/fan of Shakespeare himself. Her writing style is brilliant, pithy, and keeps a lovely British banter going for ages. The wittiness of it all is divine.
Farnham himself pops off Shakespearean proverbs as if they provide Biblical wisdom in any and all instances. I can't help from seeing the Holmes and Watson type of similarities too, found in Farnham and his doctor friend, Breen.
It's such a cozy type story. I feel like I've truly met and talked with these characters, and feel like I've visited Whistlecrieg a few times in person -- and would be excited to go back.
I naively assumed there would be a sequel -- the characters lend themselves easily to the making of more stories about them. However, upon my online research, I found no such sequel. (Yet.) I will hold out hope that Miss Heffington will supply us with a sequel at a later date. Also, I'll be waiting on a future movie to appear -- because this would make for an entertaining movie, for sure.
Contains some grammatical errors, but I looooove the story so much, I can overlook that flaw.
Content: Fairly clean, with subtle hints at mature topics, hints of impropriety. Mild swearing/euphemisms.
Minimum age to read: 15 and up.
April 13, 2021
Sadly I didn’t make time to read either one of Rachel’s previous works, both of which sound good. What I do know is her writing in the blogosphere everyone praises her books, so I knew, sooner or later, I would be reading something from her poetic pen. It came “sooner” when I had an opportunity to read Rachel’s newest release, Anon, Sir, Anon.
STORY: The feisty, unmarried and clever Genevieve Langley may be unremarkable in appearance but she’s a good hand at nursing. This prompts her well-to-do parents to send their daughter to care for an uncle suffering some health issues. Upon her arrival, Genevieve or “Vivi,” finds living in a crusty bachelor’s world to be quite unlike the life she leads. The real excitement finds her when a popular actress dies, and along with Uncle Farnham, Vivi sets out to solve the case.
Anon, Sir, Anon, by Rachel Heffington | Book Review
In the world of Whistlecreig, a place I imagine as a small, quaint village where you might “see” Miss Marple, Rachel creates a darling “cozy mystery” that is unique. I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery quite like this one and I very much admire the narrative. There’s plenty of danger within the pages, only it’s not necessarily the fast-paced kind. The (ARC) text takes its time setting up the mystery that embroils everyone as does the solving of said mystery. Much as I enjoy the camaraderie of the characters, some of the relationships that forge seem a little awkward or as if they aren’t well written. That said, I do understand the purpose of the “bigger picture” story almost requires these connections and as such, I cannot fault them too much. I’d be more specific here, but then I’d be giving away some pivotal plot point.
If you’re searching for a fresh take on the quiet, quaint and cozy mystery genre, then Anon, Sir, Anon is fun. It’s a unique and snappy read that’s precise and elegant from a budding Indie author.
Sincere thanks to the author for providing a complimentary e-ARC copy of this book for reviewing purposes.
STORY: The feisty, unmarried and clever Genevieve Langley may be unremarkable in appearance but she’s a good hand at nursing. This prompts her well-to-do parents to send their daughter to care for an uncle suffering some health issues. Upon her arrival, Genevieve or “Vivi,” finds living in a crusty bachelor’s world to be quite unlike the life she leads. The real excitement finds her when a popular actress dies, and along with Uncle Farnham, Vivi sets out to solve the case.
Anon, Sir, Anon, by Rachel Heffington | Book Review
In the world of Whistlecreig, a place I imagine as a small, quaint village where you might “see” Miss Marple, Rachel creates a darling “cozy mystery” that is unique. I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery quite like this one and I very much admire the narrative. There’s plenty of danger within the pages, only it’s not necessarily the fast-paced kind. The (ARC) text takes its time setting up the mystery that embroils everyone as does the solving of said mystery. Much as I enjoy the camaraderie of the characters, some of the relationships that forge seem a little awkward or as if they aren’t well written. That said, I do understand the purpose of the “bigger picture” story almost requires these connections and as such, I cannot fault them too much. I’d be more specific here, but then I’d be giving away some pivotal plot point.
If you’re searching for a fresh take on the quiet, quaint and cozy mystery genre, then Anon, Sir, Anon is fun. It’s a unique and snappy read that’s precise and elegant from a budding Indie author.
Sincere thanks to the author for providing a complimentary e-ARC copy of this book for reviewing purposes.
November 5, 2014
I have always been a great fan of mysteries, from the time when I would read one Nancy Drew novel a day, to when I'd cleared the library shelves of Agatha Christie. This book, though different than I'd expected, was no exception.
Pros: The main characters are very well-developed, specifically Vivi and Farnham. The reader feels right at home in their little world of Shakespeare banter and ulcers. The plot flowed along at a comfortable pace until the end (where of course it's bound to rush) which is very good for those of us who cannot sit down and read one book every day anymore. As for the writing, Heffington maintained the distinct style she developed in Fly Away Home, while transitioning smoothly to the very different atmosphere of a murder mystery. Brilliant.
Cons: I found some of the murderer's actions/words cliche. The budding romance between two characters came and went faster than seemed natural (bearing in mind that murder is never natural). These are small things to be aware of, though.
All in all, a wonderful mystery from Virginia's best-kept secret, Ms. Rachel Heffington. Recommended reading during a thunderstorm, preferably with a blanket around your shoulders.
Pros: The main characters are very well-developed, specifically Vivi and Farnham. The reader feels right at home in their little world of Shakespeare banter and ulcers. The plot flowed along at a comfortable pace until the end (where of course it's bound to rush) which is very good for those of us who cannot sit down and read one book every day anymore. As for the writing, Heffington maintained the distinct style she developed in Fly Away Home, while transitioning smoothly to the very different atmosphere of a murder mystery. Brilliant.
Cons: I found some of the murderer's actions/words cliche. The budding romance between two characters came and went faster than seemed natural (bearing in mind that murder is never natural). These are small things to be aware of, though.
All in all, a wonderful mystery from Virginia's best-kept secret, Ms. Rachel Heffington. Recommended reading during a thunderstorm, preferably with a blanket around your shoulders.
September 28, 2015
I had the privilege to read Anon, Sir, Anon before it came out. It's a thrilling yet cozy novel set in rural Europe, complete with fog, plenty of rain, and long walks in the countryside. Rachel has created a cast of dynamic characters with intriguing personalities and idiosyncrasies. And I guarantee you'll fall in love with Vivi and Farnham right off the bat. If you don't, you're probably reading it wrong.
September 15, 2018
This review contains spoilers.
The writing style of 'Anon, Sir, Anon' is very good- I haven't felt such a delicious sense of place and mood like this from a modern author in quite a while - the authoresses style seems to come from a much older and more refined time - with Shakespearean quotes seasoning the lovely cadence and adding a rich flavor.
The concept was delightful - I loved the setting and the uncle / niece team - two odd characters in an less than understanding society who team up to walk through life with their chin up and their elbows out.
But while the characters were charming, but they seemed to fluctuate a bit throughout the story. The mystery seemed slightly piecemeal (but then I'm notoriously bad at following mysteries) and I must admit the ending was a bit of a disappointment - motives and reveals seemed to be shoe horned in without any real significance and since this book had devoted the entire first half of the book establishing the MCs as a team - I think it would have been better if the uncle had been more involved in the denouement - as it was, it felt like too much of a feminist nod to Vivi.
The steamy, sensational bits seemed shoved in at the end. Aside from not liking that sort of thing, there was a self conscious element too - as if it was inserted to make it 'more of a REAL (mean streets) mystery' - those details didn't add anything to the story that some other, more inventive twist couldn't have done better.
So while I enjoyed Ms. Heffington's style - the story itself didn't quite satisfy me.
Content: While I believe that this is a Christian author, I was rather surprised by the amount of content - there was a good bit of swearing as well as 'substitute swearing'. A few suggestive comments. One girls gets in a rather compromising situation and fears she will be taken advantage of. Murder and a battered corpse is described - we also find out about the death of an unborn child. A person has a child out of wedlock.
The writing style of 'Anon, Sir, Anon' is very good- I haven't felt such a delicious sense of place and mood like this from a modern author in quite a while - the authoresses style seems to come from a much older and more refined time - with Shakespearean quotes seasoning the lovely cadence and adding a rich flavor.
The concept was delightful - I loved the setting and the uncle / niece team - two odd characters in an less than understanding society who team up to walk through life with their chin up and their elbows out.
But while the characters were charming, but they seemed to fluctuate a bit throughout the story. The mystery seemed slightly piecemeal (but then I'm notoriously bad at following mysteries) and I must admit the ending was a bit of a disappointment - motives and reveals seemed to be shoe horned in without any real significance and since this book had devoted the entire first half of the book establishing the MCs as a team - I think it would have been better if the uncle had been more involved in the denouement - as it was, it felt like too much of a feminist nod to Vivi.
The steamy, sensational bits seemed shoved in at the end. Aside from not liking that sort of thing, there was a self conscious element too - as if it was inserted to make it 'more of a REAL (mean streets) mystery' - those details didn't add anything to the story that some other, more inventive twist couldn't have done better.
So while I enjoyed Ms. Heffington's style - the story itself didn't quite satisfy me.
Content: While I believe that this is a Christian author, I was rather surprised by the amount of content - there was a good bit of swearing as well as 'substitute swearing'. A few suggestive comments. One girls gets in a rather compromising situation and fears she will be taken advantage of. Murder and a battered corpse is described - we also find out about the death of an unborn child. A person has a child out of wedlock.
January 21, 2018
Anon, Sir, Anon is a delightful English mystery. I love the setting of the book and I loved Vivi and Farnham. Both were endearing characters. While they were somewhat thrown together by their mutual meddlesome family, they soon come to love and appreciate one another. The style of writing is another plus for this book. Heffington beautifully weaves in historical references throughout the novel, and her 1930s British dialogue is nearly flawless. The witty conversations make for a quick read that you won’t want to end. I must admit that I’m not up on all the Shakespeare references, though this book makes me want to read his works even more than I previously did. The mystery kept me guessing and I was shocked by the outcome.
Clearly, I’m a fan of Anon, Sir, Anon. If you love historical mysteries, definitely give this one a try. I must needs more Vivi and Farnham!
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
Clearly, I’m a fan of Anon, Sir, Anon. If you love historical mysteries, definitely give this one a try. I must needs more Vivi and Farnham!
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
December 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! It kept me guessing who the murderer was. I had a feeling it was a certain person the whole time but I didnt want to believe it, lol. I loved reading about the growing relationship between the uncle and his niece, and I wish there were more Farnham and Vivi mystery books to read! I love it!
September 22, 2014
This novel is a delightful, cozy trip over the pond and back in time to the 1930's where we meet truly unforgettable characters from their first lines of dialogue. The main characters, Farnham and Vivi, are uncle and niece. One, a convalescing Shakespearean actor and the other is deemed an old maid by her family and sent to care for her uncle to give her something to do. What Vivi does not bargain for--besides the difficult to read relative who at first makes her jump with his use of, Bang! instead of cursing--is being embroiled in a murder mystery her uncle seeks to solve.
For me as a reader, it's a toss up as to what I love more--a solid beginning that begs to have the pages turned and as fast as possible--or a happy ending. This book has a fantastic opening and a wonderful ending--trust me. But my personal favorite is the opening.
Not only through her use of vivid imagery and clever turn of phrase in description and dialogue, Rachel whisks you into the oh-so-delightfully British world of Vivi and Farnham, she takes you on a truly exciting journey and turn of events with Vivi being the only one to recognize the murder victim, and just when you begin to think one thing--BANG. A huge game changer cause for a gasp and tossing the book or reading device across the room. At least that's what I did.
Vivi and Farnham are memorable characters--they leave a lasting impression. The sharp wit and humor present through their jaunts through foggy English countryside hunting down clues and putting them all together makes for a story truly unlike a typical mystery "who dunnit" novel.
For me as a reader, it's a toss up as to what I love more--a solid beginning that begs to have the pages turned and as fast as possible--or a happy ending. This book has a fantastic opening and a wonderful ending--trust me. But my personal favorite is the opening.
Not only through her use of vivid imagery and clever turn of phrase in description and dialogue, Rachel whisks you into the oh-so-delightfully British world of Vivi and Farnham, she takes you on a truly exciting journey and turn of events with Vivi being the only one to recognize the murder victim, and just when you begin to think one thing--BANG. A huge game changer cause for a gasp and tossing the book or reading device across the room. At least that's what I did.
Vivi and Farnham are memorable characters--they leave a lasting impression. The sharp wit and humor present through their jaunts through foggy English countryside hunting down clues and putting them all together makes for a story truly unlike a typical mystery "who dunnit" novel.
November 25, 2014
Anon, Sir, Anon by Rachel Heffington was a delightful mystery novel. While I suspected or "cleared" certain people as the murderer, I could not be quite sure until I reached the end. I liked the setting and the characters -- especially those of Farnham's household. I liked the gravity with which certain subjects were treated -- it had a more realistic feel than some mystery novels. The premise of uncle and niece gave the story a unique slant.
Somewhere in the middle, the author almost lost me (I pulled back from some of the adventures the heroine found herself in), but by the end of the story the author won me over again. This is a book I will recommend, if you are interested in a cozy, little mystery novel set in England.
Rachel has a style of banter and wit, curiosity and cozyness, intellect and nonsense that is entirely her own and will earn her a faithful following.
Somewhere in the middle, the author almost lost me (I pulled back from some of the adventures the heroine found herself in), but by the end of the story the author won me over again. This is a book I will recommend, if you are interested in a cozy, little mystery novel set in England.
Rachel has a style of banter and wit, curiosity and cozyness, intellect and nonsense that is entirely her own and will earn her a faithful following.
September 15, 2015
Well-written, well edited (a pleasure in this era of online publishing) and an engaging cozy mystery. However, I just could not sympathize w/ the heroine and that really spoiled my enjoyment.
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