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Darcy & Flora #3

Best Left Buried

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Darcy Campbell might have expected life in a small Oklahoma town nestled in the beautiful Ozark foothills to be as idyllic as the scenery. That, however, is not what she finds when she returns to her hometown of Levi after the death of her husband.

One autumn morning, Darcy and her mother, Flora Tucker, are enjoying a cup of coffee in their hundred-year old farmhouse when Darcy gets an urgent telephone call. The contractor who is digging the foundation for their new home insists that Darcy drop everything and come to the building site as quickly as she can. He has found a mysterious object deep in a hand-dug well and he needs Darcy's help in retrieving it.

The ancient, crumbling package pulled from the well contains two items that are as shocking as they are inscrutable. In trying to decipher the meaning of these long-buried objects, Darcy and Flora discover a dark secret from their family's past.

A kidnapping, a brush with death, and a stranger's greed add to the mix. The era of World War I becomes enmeshed with the present day as Darcy and Flora unravel a tangled web of deceit that has ensnared their family.

Volume 3 of the Darcy & Flora cozy mystery series.

If you like Amateur Sleuth stories, Cozy Mystery tales, or stories with Women Sleuths, you'll love this one!

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 10, 2014

7 people are currently reading
83 people want to read

About the author

Blanche Day Manos

11 books21 followers

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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Yvonne.
1,344 reviews265 followers
February 7, 2017
I’ve really become engrossed in this series. It’s the second one I’ve listened to. The characters jump right out at you. Darcy and Flora are a great mother/daughter sleuth team.

This entry in the series is filled with family secrets and keeps the reader guessing. The past blends with the present for a captivating read. I was trying to figure things out right along with Darcy and Flora. Everything fell nicely into place. It’s filled with action, adventure, mystery and even a touch of romance.
I’m looking forward to listening to more from this series.



FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this audio book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for April.
2,201 reviews58 followers
May 17, 2016
“This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.”

This book begins with mystery solving, mother and daughter finding objects from long ago hidden in an old well. They begin searching for the reason the things were there. This search cause mystery upon mystery to develop. There is a bit of suspense and romance thrown in for good measure. I look forward to more in this series!




The narration was well done, the characters were excellently portrayed. Thanks to Michelle Babb for fine entertainment!!
Profile Image for Ann.
1,941 reviews32 followers
April 7, 2023
I loved listening to this small town mystery. Michelle Babb's narrative talents kept me interested and entertained. I love the characters and how Darcy and her mom solve problems.
Profile Image for Lis Carey.
2,213 reviews138 followers
January 25, 2017
Darcy Campbell and her mother, Flora Tucker, have finally started the work of building Flora's new house on the land left her by her mother--Darcy's Granny Grace. Both women know that Flora was adopted, but this fact has never been a concern in the family.

Then safely burying the old dug well on the property, long since replaced by a more modern well, unearths an old package wrapped in sheepskin. What's inside that sheepskin is a gun far too valuable to have just been tossed away casually, and the remains of what appears to be a wedding announcement.

It's a wedding announcement for Granny Grace, to a man other than Flora's father and Darcy's grandfather. It names a man neither of them has ever heard of.

While they both give passing consideration to the possibility that this is a secret they don't need to know, in fact there is no real possibility of either letting go of it. It's just too intriguing and baffling.

And also, as it turns out, dangerous. Someone is after Flora's land, or part of it, and they're prepared to do anything to get it. That unsuspected first marriage might be a hint of bad news, or not. When strangers show up in Levi, some making improbably large offers on the land, and others claiming to be the rightful heirs, Flora and Darcy have a big problem on their hands--especially when people start dying.

The relationships between Flora and Darcy, and between Darcy and the sheriff, continue to grow and develop. As they piece together the mystery of Granny Grace's first marriage, a related mystery emerges: Who was Flora adopted from, anyway?

There's a lot going on, and lots of occasion for Flora and Darcy to wonder if, indeed, they've have been better off if that gun and that marriage announcement had staid buried.

Recommended.

I received this audiobook as a gift from the narrator.
Profile Image for Julie Howard.
Author 2 books31 followers
May 24, 2020
I enjoyed this book. This is the second book by this author I have listened to and I think I enjoyed this book more than book two, I did enjoy both but I think this one contains more mystery. It was interesting to learn about the characters past and it had me hooked right from the start. I liked the characters in the previous book but with this one I felt more attached and cared about what happened to them. The mystery was good and it felt like there was several cases or situations going on at once, so held my attention the whole way through and I am looking forward to starting the next book.
Darcy is called early one morning to a long ago forgotten well on her land that she and her mother have big plans for. The builder has uncovered the well to find something stuck in there and hoping it is hidden gold he needs help reaching it. With this discovery Flora and Darcy find themselves on another case, this one involving themselves. A gun was wrapped up in the sheep's skin but it is the faded wording that left an imprint, which has them reeling and questioning everything they thought they knew about there past. The old timers of the village aren't talking and are in fact telling them to leave it alone but a mystery that involves themselves is to important to ignore. At the same time a property developer makes an offer on there land and a lady turns up claiming to be the rightful owner of the land. What is going on? Why has the piece of land there were planning to build there new land on suddenly become so popular? And is it all connected? The pair will have to dodge bullets, poisonings and kidnappings to get to the bottom of this little mystery.
Michelle Babb is a great choice for this series (or In fact any series) because she brings a lot of enjoyment to the table with her pleasant voice and excellent individual voices for the characters.
Profile Image for Kim.
1,163 reviews16 followers
March 3, 2018
Flora and Darcy are excited about building their new home on Flora's mother's property. While covering up an abandoned well on the property a package containing old gun is found. Also inside the package appears to be some kind of writing. Darcy deciphers the writing to realize this was information about a secret marriage of her grandmother. Also suddenly there are multiple people interested in this property. Does this secret marriage and sudden interest in their property have a connection?

This mother and daughter duo have a wonderful relationship and work well together while investigating their family's history. I really like that Flora doesn't discourage Darcy even though she was clearly upset in finding out that her mother kept a really big secret from her. This is a very enjoyable storyline and mystery. There are several twists and turns throughout the story to keep the reader pondering what is really going on with the family property? I really loved how the past and present are brought together to create this wonderful mystery.

I listened to an audio version of this book. Narrator Michelle Babb allows us to experience Flora and Darcy's discoveries on another level. Babb has great diction, accents, pace, and adds an emotional voice to help bring the story to life.

I recommend this book to mystery lovers. If you have access to the audio version I definitely recommend this version of the book. I was provided with a copy of this book in hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way influenced by others.
3,988 reviews14 followers
August 1, 2018
( Format : Audiobook )
"Maybe things will be better in the morning."
When Darcy's husband Jake died about a year before, she left her reporting job to return home to live with her mother, a time to heal in peace. But trouble seems to follow her and this time it came in the form of a package discovered in an old well on the land where the new family home was being built. And it is trouble with a capital T, with her entire genealogy being turned upside down.

The Darcy and Flora mysteries by Blanche Day Manos are a delight. The mother-daughter relationship is beautifully drawn, as are their individual characterisations and their everyday life and friendships. The pace is not fast, instead adapting to that of the small town in which they live, but it is full of tension and intrigue. The story hardly matters, so enjoyable are the people, but this mystery is good, too, especially through the earlier parts of the book.

Narrator, Michelle Babb, is, as always, superb. Her full and pleasant voice is well modulated, her accent both fitting the town's location as well as adding warmth to her performance. She also paces her reading to fit the text as well as giving distinctive and appropriate voice to each of the protagonists.

A perfect combination of author and narrator. This book was, simply, a pleasure to hear and enjoy.
Profile Image for Elena Alvarez Dosil.
876 reviews14 followers
July 13, 2019
Review originally published at: https://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookr...

A mysterious object is found at the bottom of a well at the campground of what will be Darcy and Flora’s new home. They will try to make sense of this object while they also face an old family mystery that will change things forever.

I had lots of fun listening to this cozy mystery. The story trapped me from the start and kept me hooked until the end. There were numerous twists and surprises along the way, and every new finding just rose more questions. I especially enjoyed the trips to the past and Darcy digging through their family history. It was definitely interesting and inspiring!

We get to know better the inhabitants of Darcy and Flora’s town, which help in creating a richer story, having each one a crucial role in the mystery.

Michelle Babb’s narration was excellent, as always, interpreting vivid dialogs and bringing each and one of the characters to life. Babb always provides a wonderful experience to the listener.

I am really enjoying this series, and I am looking forward to listening to the next book.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for Quenya.
404 reviews19 followers
April 2, 2023
I liked this entry into the series. I felt like the characters are always consistent and have grown on me. Darcy and Flora are very good amateur sleuths. They try very hard to keep the police informed which is great because that bothers me in other books.

This mystery was close to Darcy and Flora as it involved their family but it didn’t really feel like it was that big of a deal to me. I was also not thrilled with how the town acted about the finding of something old on Flora’s property. There just seemed to be so much drama about something that wasn’t a big issue. It led to a lot of new information but nothing earth shattering.

These books are often listed as Christian mysteries. The author does a really good job of balancing Flora and Darcy’s faith with the other aspects of the novel. The narrator is one of my favorites and she does this book series justice, and I can easily relax and settle in.
2,369 reviews
February 8, 2021
I really enjoy these sweet, southern, cozy mysteries featuring Darcy and Flora... and this one's no exception!
Darcy has moved back with her mother to get her feet back under her as she recovers after the devastating loss of her beloved! In actuality though, she's had no time for herself, as she and her mother Flora, keep stumbling upon mystery after mystery.
In this story, the mystery becomes very personal when an object is found on their property. It's a revolver dating back to the civil war... that and a page torn out of the family Bible, giving a whole new twist on what they thought they knew about their family! The mystery turns ugly when a present day poisoning points to murder!
So grab the book, or better yet, the audio version!
Sit back, and let Michelle Babb tell you a story...
2,049 reviews8 followers
September 16, 2022
Although this is the third book in the "Darcy & Flora Cozy Mystery" series, it was my second adventure with the mother and daughter sleuthing duo, and I enjoyed it as much as book 2. Even though I haven't listened to the first book in the series, I was able to enjoy and be entertained by this story as I really liked the characters of Darcy and Flora. I appreciated their dependency on their religion especially Flora. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Michelle Babb's narration was charming and entertaining. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
Profile Image for Darcysmom.
1,514 reviews
November 22, 2017
Best Left Buried is all about secrets and families and what happens when the truth is revealed after decades. Darcy and her mother Flora make a great team - digging up information and solving mysteries. In this third book, the investigating is very personal. When artifacts pertaining to Flora's mother's life are unearthed, she and Darcy are off on a search for information. Digging up informati0n is difficult and surprisingly dangerous. Best Left Buried is a quick reading, enjoyable cozy mystery - perfect when accompanied by a warm drink and cool weather.
176 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2020
A Darcy & Flora Cozy Mystery, Best Left buried book 3 clever written story.

There a touch belief in God.
There is no course language, no sex, and violence is kept to the basics.

Story and characters well developed.

Narrated by Michelle Babb who gave each character having their own unique voice.

I suggest that you listen to Michelle‘s voice before getting the audio book. I listen to the audiobook on 1.4 speed.

This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher free of charge for a honest, unbiased review.
Profile Image for Deedra.
3,933 reviews40 followers
March 13, 2020
I really liked this book.There was a lot of repetition,but the story was good.Flora is Darcys mother.Together they discover things no one in their family wanted them,or anyone else to know. Michelle Babb was a fine narrator. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.' 
Profile Image for Brycen.
242 reviews14 followers
November 14, 2022
I always enjoy Michelle Babb’s narrations but this book was especially fantastic. The storyline was interesting. The plot twists were fantastic. I highly recommend this series. Very easy to listen to and it keeps your attention.
Profile Image for OjoAusana.
2,266 reviews
December 18, 2021
*received for free for honest review* really great series! like the characters and the story itself, enjoyed this series.
Profile Image for Dawn.
144 reviews19 followers
Read
February 15, 2022
Loved it ! I’m enjoying these books VERY much !!!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
345 reviews17 followers
June 20, 2017
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

Cozy mysteries are my favorite and Blanche Day Manos and Barbara Burgess did a great job writing Best Left Behind. Mother and daughter team Darcy and Flora have another mystery to solve after Cub uncovers a mysterious package stuck down in a well. As soon as the package is recovered a whole slew of strange events begin to take place. Strangers start showing up at Darcy and Flora's front door wanting their newly inherited property and some are even willing to kill for it. Disturbing family history is also showing up in the present and Darcy is more determined than ever to find out what's going on. So many twist and turns that will keep you listening or reading just about all night !!!!

Michelle Babb did an awesome job as usual!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Anne Rightler.
1,974 reviews35 followers
June 26, 2016
Best Left Buried, third in the Darcy & Flora cozy mystery series by Blanche Day Manos, is a great addition to the set. A hundred-year-old mystery is unearthed, people are dying, family secrets are revealed, romance is in the air...what more could a mystery lover want! Manos keeps readers interest with solid, likable characters and a good story line with unexpected twists. Mother and daughter seem to be magnets for dangerous predicaments...theft, kidnapping, poisoning, you name it, it happens! Can their friends save them? And just why are people interested in their land? Michelle Babb again does a great job narrating and bringing this fun story to audiobook listeners.
I received a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Judy.
34 reviews
August 13, 2016
Looking into family history can be risky. You never know what you will find. Darcy and Flora are sort of pushed into investigating their family by a mysterious package found by the contractor digging the foundation for their new home. A previously unknown mystery comes to light and their efforts to get to the truth of the story lead to an old love story set in WWI days, tragedy, and rumors of buried treasure. Throw in a couple of near-death experiences and a kidnapping and things get pretty lively. In the background to all this adventure, a new romance is growing for Darcy. This was an enjoyable listen for me. Michelle Babb does a fine job of bringing the various characters to life. I'm very glad she sent me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Angie.
1,234 reviews90 followers
August 19, 2016
Cozy mystery done right!

Small town Oklahoma dweller Darcy and her Mom, Flora find themselves sleuthing again--this time to uncover the truth in their own family history. As someone who loves learning about my own family roots, I found this entry very entertaining and enjoyable. The usual sweet and quirky townsfolk are back again and the dialogue and relationships between characters hit the right notes. For those who enjoy cozy mysteries, this is a great book (and series) to try!

Michelle Babb is the narrator on the audio-version, and she does a great job with reading it and making the characters come alive.
Profile Image for Steve.
Author 2 books15 followers
November 29, 2016
Discovering a mysterious package down a well on their property opens up a whole mess other mysteries and causes some real trouble for the mystery solving mother and daughter team of Flora and Darcy. Things continuously happen that you don't expect and the story will keep you glued to your player. This is a great one. Don't miss it!

We loved listening to the second book in the series and were excited to listen to the third. We were not disappointed. The writing in this series is always good and the narrator Michelle Babb really brings the characters to life in a way that hits all the right chords with us.
Profile Image for Suzan.
1,655 reviews18 followers
February 5, 2017
This is the second book I have listened to in this series. I really enjoyed this one. The relationship between Mother and Daughter was a nice change. I really enjoyed Michelle Babb's narration. Michelle does a wonderful job of getting me hooked on the story. I received this audio book as a gift with the understanding that I would give an honest review.
Profile Image for Jan.
6,531 reviews100 followers
February 6, 2017
This mystery is like peeling an onion, the layers just keep uncovering more and more of the past and it all impacts the present. The publisher's blurb gives hints and there is no need for spoilers here. This series is compelling, suspenseful, and yet has plenty of humor. I have enjoyed every one that I've read and can't pick a favorite.
I prefer audio and Michelle Babb is great!
Profile Image for Marcia Trotter.
57 reviews3 followers
June 16, 2016
I love the Darcy and Flora series! This is the third installment and I am anxiously awaiting the upcoming fourth! As the mother/daughter duo decide to build a new home on family property, a secret is unearthed that will forever change their lives. A whirlwind ensues Darcy and Flora, involving death, mystery, and new found accusations involving their family history. Lives will be forever enlightened and changed. I love this series and Blanche Day Manos is a wonderful author.
1,444 reviews11 followers
September 4, 2015
Well written

Enjoyed this book. I like the setting and the descriptions of the surrounding area. The mystery was twisted enough to keep me reading
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews

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