A missing heroine. A moribund butler. And a millionaire's castle chock-full of secrets...
July, 1941. When Evie Harris vanishes after visiting her late fiancé's parents, the Homefront Sleuths of Crofter's Green vow to find her. But their investigation takes a bizarre turn when Nigel's police superiors send him to nearby Clarion Castle.
There, the first under-butler has just taken his final bow in the castle's wine cellar.
Could there be a connection with Evie's disappearance? Or with a hush-hush VIP visit to the castle?
The Sleuths must navigate a maze of deception, and nothing is easy. Harry finds the murdered butler's journal, but it's in a code, Blake knows codes, but he and Katherine are busy unlocking secrets in the castle library, hampered by her still-fragmented memory, Alice dons pilgrim garb to infiltrate suspicious travelers (her herb basket now doubling as spy gear), and Dorothy must size up mysterious tea shop visitors and give her friends at the castle a warning.
Not to mention Evie, who must discover where she is and then find a way to escape.
With time ticking louder than Harry's pocket watch, Evie and the Sleuths must reunite to unmask a master spy before a the course of the war is changed forever.
A delightful blend of historical mystery, wartime espionage, and village intrigue—perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen, Susan Elia MacNeal, and Agatha Christie. Scroll up and One-click now!
Anna Elliott is an author of historical fiction and fantasy. She enjoys stories about strong women, and loves exploring the multitude of ways women can find their unique strengths. She was delighted to lend a hand with the Sherlock & Lucy series, and thrilled to continue a new spin-off series featuring Becky and Flynn. Her first series, the Twilight of Avalon trilogy, is a retelling of the Trystan & Isolde legend. She wrote her second series, The Pride & Prejudice Chronicles , chiefly to satisfy her own curiosity about what might have happened to Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and all the other wonderful cast of characters after the official end of Jane Austen’s classic work.
This kindle ebook novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 5 of 10
This story is set in Britain during WWII with a number of people investigating murder. This leads to the uncovering an assassin plan to kill a high British political. It all comes to a happy ending. 🌃😁
I would recommend this series and authors to readers of British history adventure thriller novels 🏙🤔 2025 🎶🙃
This is a fun mystery! The whole series is included in the audible plus collection I see, so I will go back and look the others up for sure. As it stands I read this one first, that works just fine. It’s a very exciting spy mystery set in the English countryside.
This series started off as being a pleasant, lightweight, easy read with fun characters. But each book has become gradually more ridiculous, less consistent and with more egregious continuity mistakes. This book has fully jumped the shark, with any attempt at a plot just replaced with ridiculous nonsense. It comes to something when by the end, the character with whom I held most sympathy was the seemingly hyper-intelligent, linguistically gifted Pomeranian. Someone should give the dog a typewriter, as he’d likely do a better job of writing a novel than this one.
I really enjoy books written by these authors, and this book is no exception. It is well written, a good mystery, and I learned new information about WWII. Highly recommend the entire series!
This one definitely kept my heartrate a little elevated (though I never thought any of the gang would die... it's too Nancy Drew-esque for that!). Evie's realization that {SPOILER} someone she thought long dead was, in fact, not, was not a surprise (saw that one coming), but it didn't dim my enjoyment of the story. I like the way each of the characters are growing and becoming more confident and working together. This one was less "cozy mystery" and more action, but still a good addition to the series.
Obsessed with the gang obsessed with the spy murder mystery, absolutely love the ‘need to rescue the woman you love but haven’t told her yet’ trope which runs throughout the whole of this book!
I read this as a stand-alone (even though its book 5 in a series), and though I think it's doable, I'm sure I'm missing out on character development and me bonding with the characters because of it. That could be part of why I've given it such a low rating. Something about the writing (maybe the over explaining of every clue or over explaining of every move) plays out like a Matlock episode. This isn't a good thing. I'm trying to like it with the historical fiction vibe, but I'm just not thrilled about it and, in fact, struggled. The last 15-20% felt like a fever pitch, and I was finally interested. I don't think I'll read anymore from this series (unless it's a book club pick like this one was).
Although these books are suggested to being standalones, I do think that reading the first four was incredibly helpful. When I finished the 4th book, the cliffhanger was so epic I immediately jumped into this book. It didn’t disappoint. So many things were tied up nicely, yet so many new ideas were opened. Loved this one.
One way to know how well this book is written is that the author continues to create an excellent thriller with a variety of “regulars“ and still prevent the reader from becoming confused.
The characterizations are very good: in this fifth book of the series, the author has introduced us to people who I recognize without confusion, even though a little time has passed since I finished the last book…waiting for this new installment.
Evie spends a good deal of time away from the company of her sleuthing friends, but the time is not wasted even though she has been temporarily but effectively “taken out of commission“ in this excellent thriller. Harry figures predominantly as the leader of the effort, first to find Evie, but then also to take the reins…with Nigel…regarding a murder at Clarion Castle, where important and war-altering events are unfolding. There are quite a number of characters at the castle that could be undercover German operatives.
The rest of the sleuthing friends come together to play specific parts using their skills, either professional or natural, to try to locate Evie. Some are also involved at the castle, looking for clues in the murder investigation.
I would suggest that everyone start this series from the very beginning because while this book could probably stand alone, there is too much important backstory that begins in the very first of the series that plays an enormous part in the mystery, suspense, and eye-opening truth regarding the plot underway of the castle in this book.
Without giving away anything important, the reader and the sleuths will finally be able to put a face and identity to the Nazi spy Seigfried.
Plot is developed around strategic events that threaten Britain in its war against Germany in World War II. With the information that is presented, the plot’s pacing never suffers… Even while the perspective of a chapter may switch from one character to another, it is done so effortlessly that there is no confusion; in fact, if nothing else, it often amplifies the tension and suspense.
This is an unlikely kind of series in that our heroes are every day kinds of people who are doing the best they can amidst the struggles of war time and threats by the Nazi regime. Food and supplies are scarce; loved ones are at war, have returned from the war, or have been lost to the war. But this book captures the essence of the desire of good people, not only to lift each other up, but also to protect one another. It shows people who are working together to make the best of a terribly difficult time in history. It demonstrates the capacity that people have to be their best under the worst circumstances.
I very much enjoyed the book; I had to force myself to put it down so I could go to sleep last night. The characters are believable and admirable. The villains are sneaky, despicable…and, in some cases, extremely surprising.
I am happy to recommend this book, and will wait as patiently as possible for the next one. An important note to add is that while I read other mysteries in series and have to try to remember the characters and backstory, I never have to do that with this series. Memorable characters, solid and exciting plot development, and some big surprises. An absolute pleasure!
This village and surrounding areas just keep getting bigger and bigger because once again we're introduced to another large landmark in close proximity to Crofters Green like it was always there.
I didn't actually mind this book all that much and I think that was because the murder seemed to relate to the over arching mystery that had been running through the previous books. That's about where my graces end.
The murder side plot was so convoluted while still being the most basic and obvious person who committed the crime. These authors don't know the meaning of a red herring. And then we're introduced to Paul AKA Siegfried (I'm not even going to bother with putting a spoiler warning on this because if I prevent someone from reading this series because it's been spoiled then I've done my duty) and now all of a sudden Paul was actually a really terrible person and husband? Where is the consistency? There was absolutely no mention of this side to him when Evie reflected about him in the previous books. She was heart broken about him but he was also made out to be a really great guy. That really annoyed me more than anything because it's just lazy writing.
The German spies also seemed to be the most obvious spies in all of Brittan, it was a wonder that they weren't caught before the "Sleuths" caught up to them.
I've already started the next book and I'm happy to end it there because the main mystery of who Siegfried was has been wrapped up and it feels like the series is continuing on just because.
The more that I read this series, the more I am loving it. Each story is filled with suspense as well as a very respectful nod to historical facts. The Homeland Sleuths' characters are developing and the relationships are becoming stronger. It picks up where the last book left off, with Evie being kidnapped by German spies led by Siegfried. There are surprises throughout including Siegfried's identity. There is also a new murder to solve at Clarion Castle. A butler is murdered and as Harry and Nigel investigate it becomes clear that it may be related to Evie's disappearance. There is a sixth sleuth as Katherine, Blakes amnesia wrought fiancé, takes up the mystery. As always, Bonzo the Pomeranian comes to the rescue more than once. I like the structure of these books. Each character's thoughts and actions are their own chapters. It seems to work very well for this Father Daughter writing team. It actually makes the continuity of the book work better. I believe that they divide the writing by gender which gives more distinct personalities and multiple views of situations. Anyway, I am hooked and will be starting the next book very soon.
The fifth in the series and I would recommend reading the first four as each book builds the characters and to drop into book 5 without the backstories would be a little hard - in my opinion. The cliffhanger at the end of Book 4 meant that I picked this one a little earlier than I intended. The thread that I thought I had spotted in that book carried on in this one and for once I was right. Our little group of wartime sleuths have a real job on their hands as their is a German plot to assassinate Winston Churchill. So not only do they have to find the German spies and stop the plot but one of their group is missing, taken by the spies so a rescue mission is also needed. Little Bonzo is proving to be a very good member of the group and each of our little gang steps up to the task. I enjoy this series as it is a very easy to listen to when I am pottering in the kitchen. The characters are immensely likeable and there might even be a romance in the future to look forward to. Looking forward to Book 6.
A wonderful read in this series. Evie Harris disappears at the end of "The Judas Monk Murders". Dorothy calls Nigel and Harry with her concern so they go to Paul's parents home to find her. Unfortunely after they check the residenceand find no one there. They no sooner get back then they are called out to Clarion Castle in regards to the murder of the under butler. Clarion Castle is owned by an American industrialist who is in negiotiations with the British government. Alice investigates by going on the Pilgrim Path which goens by the castle to find any trace of Evie. While investigating the murder a notebook is found with a secret code, so Katherine and Blake get involved. Intriguing and exciting from beginning to end. The wonderful part of these stories is that each person advances the story along and keeps the reader so involved that it is hard to put down the book. Kept me up late into the night and hungry for the next book.
Have loved all the other books in the series and while this one was also good, I thought the romance could've been better.
I understand that the story isn't told from Nigel's perspective so we don't know exactly how he feels at any given time, but from other characters' povs, he doesn't seem he's too bothered with Evie's disappearance. Harry doesn't tell Nigel that Evie may be the "sick wife" in the cottage near the castle otherwise Nigel would barge in there immediately. So they go there the next day and Evie is gone and Nigel isn't perturbed nor angry at Harry for keeping the information to himself which ultimately led to Evie been moved somewhere else.
I understand that Nigel keeps feelings bottled up, but surely he'd have shown some emotion at least then?!
Happy that Nigel eventually redeems himself and shows more of what he feels for Evie but the cottage scene above just seemed so weird to me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Once again, I was privileged to receive an advance copy of this book (thanks, authors, I appreciate it!) and am happy to post a review of it. The previous episode of the Homefront Sleuths had a cliffhanger with Evie being abducted, and this book carries on with her dangerous position and the search for her by her colleagues, in addition to the investigation of a murder at Clarion Castle which might have national consequences. There is an interesting twist to the plot, which I will leave for you to find out for yourself, but the action and feelings are intense and keep you engaged right up to the end. I can hardly wait for the next installment in this series.
The best of the series so far and I've rated them all 5 stars! And so different because Evie is separated from the rest of the Homefront Sleuths for most of the book. Loved the multiple points of view and the way everyone has their own unique strengths and talents they can contribute to the mission. And this one is big! German spies on home ground and Evie coming up against a jaw dropping part of her past. And she is so spunky and clever and the best heroine ever! I'd definitely want her by my side in a fight! And our fearless Pomeranian is back! Woot! So many stand up a cheer moments! Hope this series goes on forever!
Oh, boy. I did not see this one coming. And the brilliant thing is... I should have. Our friends in Crofter's Green really pulled together in this one. Evie's missing, things aren't looking good, and while they're off to the rescue... they aren't at the same time. Or rather... yeah. Can't say! EEEP!
Seriously, this is one of my all-time favorite series. I drummed my fingers for the next book for MONTHS after the book released so I could listen to the audio. YES, it was worth the wait. 100% But man... it was HARD. Now I wait for the next. *sniffles
Note: I am guessing on date I read. Wish GoodReads would fix their sidebar "currently reading" thing. Grr.
2025 bk 84. At last, the cliffhanger at the end of #4 is resolved. Our group of friends continue to battle on the homefront - dealing with malingerers, 5th columnists, and spymasters. When an underbutler is murdered at Clarion Castle, our two police (one retired) have no reason to suspect it may be tied to the missing Evie, but as very well crafted plotting on the part of the authors shows, connections can be found and evil doers found out. Well done book. Now that major strain is resolved - I can hardly wait for book #6 and what adventures will meet our friends.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book but I've got to wait till September for the next. I was so confused, it says on Amazon it's book 5 of 11 but book 6 isn't out yet and 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 are. They I realised, these are repeats of book 1-5 in reverse order.
I'm tempted to KU these again so the authors get double. Pay for me reading because I will be buying copies soon as I know I'll want to read again soon. Darn, that didn't work, ah well I tried. Hopefully this will be sorted soon. I was all excited to find a series of 11 books I was enjoying.
There is cozy and then there is neglectful writing and clownish storytelling. I have let some of the plot holes of past stories slide, but the ridiculous plot holes and inconsistencies in this story were too much. As with the last book the focus on Paul has progressively taken over the series and instead of cozy mysteries set in WWII the spy ring dominates. The writing seemed forced and needed a few more good edits to get rid of the plot holes. The absurdity of this will see me jumping off this series.
Evie was a bit more ninja than I think likely. But the team did a good job. I do feel that they should start inviting Bonzo to their mystery meetings. I am glad the romances aren’t being jumped into quickly. That leaves the mystery itself as the main purpose. Not a romance that has a mystery to make things happen (not that I read those sorts of mysteries, I may have been fooled by a title once or twice and too far into the vague mystery to pull back). Quaint characters. Good mysteries. Too much ninja.
I began reading this as soon as I received the ARC (sorry, boss) and I have to say that I was riveted. I was as captivated by the resolution of Evie's personal drama as I was with the espionage thriller. There were less hijinks than in Manning Coles' "The Fifth Man" but fans of Manning Coles ought to enjoy this series, hopefully as much as I do.
I received an ARC from the authors and I am gleefully and voluntarily leaving a review.
Evie wakes to find herself lying on a bed in a bare room, no window and the door is locked, the last thing she remembers is going to visit Paul’s parents. Dorothy is worries that Evie has not returned and contacts Nigel and Harry, as they set off to look for her, a murder is committed at Clarion Castle. Nigel and Harry are ordered to investigate, leaving Alice to search for Evie. A really good read and excellent follow up to the other books in the series.
Evie, Nigel, Harry, and the rest of the Homefront Sleuths are chasing down German spies and are finally on the trail of Siegfried, the German mastermind who has been tracking and stalking Evie since her spy days in France. When Evie disappears, it's up to the rest of her friends to find her before Siegfried gets his revenge. It's an exciting book that kept my interest from cover to cover. Can't wait for the next installment.
After the cliff hanger in that last book I was excited to receive an ARC and what a roller coaster!! Tension and excitement in every page. It was difficult to put the book down to eat and sleep. The authors keep you engaged to the very last page. I just loved the last chapter – how it was written and explaining everything. There MUST be a next in series and I look forward to more WW2 adventures with Evie and her friends. An outstanding series!
I like this series. i read this one instead of listened. It is rare for me to say this, but i prefer the audiobooks for this series. too much repetition is more noticeable in print. Also, it is getting too moony. I lost the ages early on. I thought Evie was in her 40s and Nigel in his early 20s. I must have that wrong. and they keep hinting at Alice and Harry, but we don't need more romance. Solve crimes.
I just finished the latest in the Homefront Sleuths series. I have enjoyed all the books so far, but this one I hated to put down as I wanted to know what would happen to all the characters in this latest installment. Anna Elliott keeps the plot moving and kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to know if they would get through another mystery. I can't wait to read the next one to see what happens.
I really enjoy the characters in this series, but the authors desperately need a good editor! There are inconsistencies, such as saying a character shut the book—twice. And a body was found on its side and the hand first glimpsed behind a shrub, but then the body has a rose clasped to its chest with both hands. Those are just two that I recall from this novel and the previous.
Nevertheless, it’s an enjoyable series that would earn five stars with a good editor on board.