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Homefront Sleuths #7

The Scrooge Conspiracy: A Homefront Sleuths Mystery

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Christmas comes early to Crofter's Green—but so does murder.

When a charming American actor arrives to direct a Christmas production of A Christmas Carol for evacuee children at a grand country manor, it seems like the perfect holiday treat. But on the very day Pearl Harbor is attacked, the actor is found murdered—and he's been carrying mysterious coded messages that suggest this "Christmas spirit" hides something far more dangerous.

As snow blankets the English countryside and Christmas approaches, the Sleuths must unravel a web of theatrical deception, wartime espionage, and long-buried secrets. With a houseful of vulnerable children and a killer still at large, can they solve the mystery before the final curtain falls?

Packed with holiday atmosphere, wartime intrigue, and all the cozy charm you love about Crofter's Green, The Scrooge Conspiracy delivers the perfect blend of Christmas magic and mystery mayhem.

Readers say it's "Like Downton Abbey meets Miss Marple—delightful, heartwarming, and utterly addictive!" Scoll up and one-click to order now!

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Published December 5, 2025

318 people are currently reading
100 people want to read

About the author

Anna Elliott

81 books417 followers
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.

WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...

Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
17 reviews1 follower
November 23, 2025
good story great characters

As always i ignore that they are all talking American and not English because the stories are good and I live the characters but please i beg you do some research. No one adds any kind of milk to chamomile and mint tea
Profile Image for Chautona Havig.
Author 275 books1,832 followers
December 15, 2025
I feel like every time I review one of the books in this series, I say, "This one's my favorite." But this one definitely is. I liked the balance of personal lives, mystery, and espionage. Excellently done and woven nicely into the thread of the series. I'm not absolutely certain about this, but I think this one, more than the others, might be managed as a stand-alone. I recall just enough mentioned to ensure you followed the story without a complete rehash or leaving past stories out completely.

Of course, now I'm drumming my fingers for the next.
48 reviews
2025
December 18, 2025
This story had it all- Christmas coziness, lovely romance, gritty murder and elusive espionage. And the ending took my breath away! <3
Profile Image for Susan.
7,244 reviews69 followers
October 19, 2025
December 1941 Oakwood Manor are holding a Christmas play for the evacuee children staying there when the American actor/director is found murdered. Soon the lovable Sleuths are involved in the murder and espionage.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Madelon.
937 reviews9 followers
October 21, 2025
The Scrooge Conspiracy is an intricate weave of story and history. It tells of spreading Christmas joy to forty children evacuated from London, giving them a chance to survive the war. Lord Oakwood has opened Oakwood Manor to these children and is determined to give them the holiday they deserve. Professional American actor Edward Seymour has been engaged to play the part of Scrooge and to direct the children in their production of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. When the unfortunate Mr. Seymour meets with foul play, the sleuths go into action.

Of course, it is not enough to be dealing with murder. Detective Inspector Nigel Brewster has been tapped for a special assignment protecting American Ambassador Lyle, so Harry Jenkins, Scotland Yard retiree, once again finds himself in charge of a murder investigation. When Nigel and the ambassador are kidnapped, the question arises: is the murder related?

Between play rehearsals and investigations, there are myriad strings to pull and situations to unravel. The timing of the novel—December 7, 1941, “a date which will live in infamy”—is important to these Brits who have endured so much. The writing team of Elliott and Veley offer a “what if” that works well in the story and gives readers something to ponder.

The homefront isn’t easy during war. Sacrifices are made, yet life goes on. The stalwarts of Crofter’s Green soldier on. Weddings happen. Falling in love happens. Christmas happens. Along with sacrifice come moments of joy. In between come the horrors of war, alongside a criminal element that seeks to profit from others’ misery.

As mentioned above regarding story and history, you should read the Historical Notes section, which always contains interesting facts that will answer your “Did this really happen?” questions.

If you’ve read my reviews of the Sherlock and Lucy series penned by this father-and-daughter team, you know that I highly recommend reading their series in order. Although each book in the Homefront Sleuths Cozy Mystery series could be read as a standalone (with the exception of that one that ends on a cliffhanger), they do depend on one another to convey the growing relationships among the sleuths and their neighbors. The Scrooge Conspiracy is both delightful and hair-raising as only Christmas during wartime must be.

If you haven’t already done so, do read the highly entertaining About the Authors. The father-and-daughter team of Anna Elliott and Charles Veley have given me many hours of reading enjoyment. For that I am grateful.
Profile Image for Miss Rachey.
75 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2025
Maybe one of my fave of the Home Front Sleuths mysteries so far!

Nothing is ever what it seems and no murder is simply just a murder when in Crofters Green.

When Scrooge turns up dead and it just doesn’t make sense why, or who…the gang get more heavily involved in the local production of A Christmas Carol for the village festive show not only to try and crack the case but also to keep an eye on the evacuees staying at the local manor whilst the killer is on the loose.

Nigel is also on a very important assignment to provide a local detail to a secret American diplomatic visit rumoured to be around the growing trouble in the Pacific and whether the US will join the war or not.

It doesn’t take the gang long to realise the 2 things are intertwined, particularly when Nigel and the ambassador are kidnapped and it becomes a race against time to solve the murder, catch the killer and save Nigel and Lyle.

As always, the gang all play a pivotal role in the case and they couldn’t have done it without their mutual involvement.

Wee nod at the end to Harry and Alice…could there be more than friendship there? I’d love that for both of them.

Particularly loved that Billy - one of the evacuees, and also an orphan after losing his parents in the blitz - playing Tiny Tim in the Christmas production seems to be a target for some reason, becomes vital in cracking the mystery of the killer…a case of wrong place and wrong time with locked away information that changes the gangs thinking. I was really hopeful that he’d become a standing resident of Crofters Green but wasn’t sure who’d be the one to take him in. The Bakers don’t really have the room, Katherine & Blake don’t yet have a house…I kind of thought Alice might? She didn’t but she used her whiles and ways to make sure he found a fitting home and I hope to see him in the next book!
120 reviews
November 7, 2025
A pleasure to read

In each one of these mysteries, the authors come up with the most interesting and intricately woven plots.

The characters are like good friends, at this point. We see their strengths and how they use them not only to solve crime, but also to help each other. They have formed their own small community (oh the larger Village community) made up of diverse personalities, which I so enjoy. I have grown accustomed to the point of view changing from chapter to chapter, and I find that it heightens the suspense.

The ending is a little abrupt, as I wish that they would continue giving us more time with the characters.

The book is cozy; it is informative and educational. The authors are well able to conceal the identity of the true criminals, exposing layered and interconnected plots that are really interesting.

A lot of work went into the staging of the play of “A Christmas Carol.“ For those who are unfamiliar with the story, the detail would come in handy. If anything moved slowly in the story, I felt that it was the wealth of information included about Charles Dickens story and its theatrical construction.

At the same time, it was nice to see that the messages of the story were being applied to the diverse characters in this latest installment.

I greatly enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series!
3,918 reviews1,763 followers
December 20, 2025
Exceptional mystery series! Love the WWWII Homefront setting in a small English village that seems to attract an inordinate amount of intrigue and espionage and plain old murder! Luckily the Homefront Sleuths are ready, willing and able to jump into the fray at a moments noice. They are an eclectic mix of villagers with varying ages and experiences including a retired Scotland Yard detective. The main character is Evie, a young American woman who came to the village after a stint of Resistance fighting in France. But all the sleuths get their own POV scenes so, by this seventh book, I feel like I really know (and love) them all.

The series should be read in order. All the characters have amazing backstories which are slowly revealed bit by bit through every book. Plus, there are occasional references to previous cases which would be major spoilers if you plan on catching up. The historical details are phenomenal and the authors have really captured the heart and spirit of this era in British history.

I listened to the audible edition narrated by Iona Campbell who does an amazing job bringing all the characters to life. Highly recommended for discerning audio 'readers'.
61 reviews
November 6, 2025
The Scrooge Conspiracy is a fascinating and intriguing story. I received a copy of this story for an honest review. Lord Oakwood has children evacuees from London staying at the manor. He has decided to have the children and some villagers involved in a re-enactment of "A Christmas Carol".
Nigel has to prepare for an American Ambassador's visit to England. Before the ambassador's visit a murder occurs at Oakwood Manor. Mr. Seymour, the director and Scrooge portrayer, is found murdered. That leaves the rest of the sleuths to investigate. There is alot of action and investigating, with kidnappings, attempted murders and cconspiracies happening. Very exciting with how each sleuth discovering all the pieces to the conclusion. I am hoping that there will be more adventures for the Homefront Sleuths, to come
228 reviews
November 5, 2025
A fabulous read as usual. Too good to be read in one sitting (although the temptation is great), this story has to be savoured. What a dream team these two authors make! They create scenes with tension, action, excitement and a drop of romance. I was on the edge of my seat a few times willing the characters on in certain situation and sighs of exasperation when they held back their actions and emotions. To me, this is the sign of excellent writing – to draw the reader in and immerse them in the story.

Thank you authors for my ARC. My only request is ……… can you please make your stories lengthier so that my enjoyment last longer???? Like the rest of the series this is a must read and highly recommended.
1,910 reviews18 followers
October 22, 2025
I do love a wedding and a Christmas pageant and the authors did a wonderful job of creating these as a background for the kind of murder mystery that Christie fans adore, all set in a historically accurate espionage story which history fans will appreciate. As grim and expedient as the demands of war may be, I enjoyed the humanness of the characters, as imperfect and morally grey as they were. This felt so real - I devoured this as soon as I got it. Already, I want the next.

I received an ARC from the authors and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Homerun2.
2,698 reviews17 followers
November 13, 2025
I have enjoyed this World War II British series and getting to know the characters.

It's December 1941 and the Brits are hanging on by a thread, hoping the Americans will enter the war. There is a top secret visit to the village by the American ambassador which police inspector Nigel and former resistance agent Evie are involved with.

Meanwhile, Nigel's Uncle Harry, retired Scotland Yard, is investigating a murder of an American actor at the local manor -- where the ambassador is scheduled to stay.

The characters are very well-drawn and the action moves right along.
199 reviews1 follower
November 17, 2025
Christmas Mystery

I am in love with this series, set in a rural village outside of London during WWII. This diverse group of Sleuths each contribute parts to solving murder and mystery while existing in wartime conditions. In this case, a prominent actor is killed while producing Scrooge for a Christmas performance. Refugee children from London, spies and more are in abundance. While the characters develop over the series, they can be read as stand alone. However it's recommended to start at the beginning. If you like historical mysteries, you'll love these books.
Profile Image for Jackie Hernandez.
161 reviews6 followers
November 17, 2025
If you’re looking for:
historical fiction
found family
investigation during the war
a tad of romance
this is for you!!

I think you can read these as a stand alone but they are so much better as a series. I have grown to love each and every character, the investigations they uncover & the dashes of romance sprinkled in every book. So sad there’s only one more book left in this series.

‼️ spoiler
I got everything I wanted in this book-
Nigel’s POV
And Nigel & Evie finally admitting how they feel towards each other

I was swooning at the end!!
5 ⭐️
135 reviews
December 15, 2025
An entertaining mystery set in WWII and the Christmas season.

Elliott and Veley are a wonderful team. The stories are always intricately plotted and very well-written. This was no exception. It is doubtful you’ll know the murderer before the end of the story, which is what I prefer. If I knew ahead of time, the ending wouldn’t be as enjoyable. Working a local production of “A Christmas Carol” into the story added an extra element of seasonal fun. As all the books in this series, I highly recommend it.
609 reviews15 followers
October 28, 2025
A Christmas Carol is being rehearsed at Oakham Hall, this is to cheer up the children, evacuated to the countryside of Crofter’s Green and now living at Oakham Hall. All is going well until the actor who had been enlisted to help by the son of the house is murdered. As Nigel has been tasked with a top secret assignment it is up to Harry, with the help of Alice, Dorothy and the others to investigate.
Another good story set in WW2 with plenty going on in it.
Profile Image for Richard.
411 reviews4 followers
November 15, 2025
"Break a leg, Harry"!

Its early December, 1941 and a amateur production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL is to be performed at Oakwood Manor. The children, evacuees of the London blitz, that have been given refuge in the manor are to perform in the production. A famous American actor has come to play Scooter in the play. The American ambassador to the Court of St. James is enroute to Crofter's Green for a "countryside rest" ! The curtain is about to go up!
Profile Image for CJ Earls.
117 reviews3 followers
October 22, 2025
This is an interesting entry in a series set in Britain during WWII. This novel is set in rural England in December 1941 and allows readers to ponder whether the world would be different if certain events had not occurred at that time. This is an interesting series by two masterful historical mystery writers. I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Phillip Mclaughlin.
662 reviews8 followers
November 9, 2025
December 1941

The cast of Homefront Sleuths has a murder of a young actor/ director on their hands just before an amateur company of evacuee children and villagers stage Dicken’s A Christmas Carol.
Enter a special guest, the American Ambassador who promptly is kidnapped.
What fun. The twists and turns in this mystery would entertain Dickens himself.
75 reviews
November 10, 2025
Other books have to wait

I love The Homefront Sleuths so much, and can't wait for the next one. This one, centered on Christmas and a production of Scrooge, continues the wonderful relationships between the characters. The British countryside is frozen and difficult, and becomes part of the plot. I loved this book just as much as all which came before.
330 reviews1 follower
November 11, 2025
The play's the thing.

Everyone is getting ready to put on a spectacular Christmas play, A Christmas Carol. But a murder is committed, killing the actor who was to play Scrooge. Now the sleuthing gang must figure out who is acting and who is deadly serious. A very enjoyable read that makes me want to continue reading more in this series.
7 reviews
November 13, 2025
What started out slowly with its Christmas theme quickly drew me in and I had to blow through this story quickly. I like these characters and root for them to solve the mystery while dealing with their own concerns. Love the setting and the characters, and always look forward to their next adventure. Keep up the great work and I’ll stay with you.
11 reviews
November 17, 2025
Definitely one NOT to be missed!

The Homefront Sleuths are hard charging once again in this imaginative Scrooge conspiracy. Just when you think you’ve figured out the main suspects, the tables are turned and it’s on to another diabolical situation you hadn’t seen coming!

Don’t miss this one, it’s too good!
8 reviews
November 26, 2025
A great read!

I recommend this book to anyone.who.likes well written mystery with twists and turns and plenty of surprises! The.characters are extremely likable, and the backdrop.of a.Christmas Carol production by children evacuated to an estate in WWII is a pleasant bonus to those who love the little gift from
Charles Dickens to those who love the season!
398 reviews3 followers
December 6, 2025
Excellent!

I just read books 6 and 7 back to back. I really enjoy them. They are intelligent, interesting and entertaining. The characters perfect. The books have the perfect amount of action, mystery and romance. Now I have to wait for the n xt one and I hope they keep coming.
441 reviews1 follower
December 24, 2025
I'm not sure why as they're both similar lengths but I got through this one a lot faster than book 6 and it felt like there wasn't as much going on in this book compared to book 6. It was a good storyline and I like the personal development's and issues the characters have and to see where they are heading. Looking forward to the next instalment.
100 reviews1 follower
November 5, 2025
The Scrooge conspiracy. As the festive season nears, the Sleuths are hoping for a true merry christmas but espionage, intrigue and murder can intrude at any time. Another great book in the homefront Sleuths series, can be read as a standalone but more enjoyable read in order.
Profile Image for Debra.
128 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2025
Another successful entry in the Homefront Sleuths series! Not only do our favorite characters deal with espionage, murder and WWII, but staging A Christmas Carol-one of my favorite Christmas stories. Highly recommend!
28 reviews
November 8, 2025
thrilling mystery

When the actor playing Ebenezer Scrooge is garrotted the Village Sleuths are forced to not only solve the crime: they have to save The Christmas Carol. Highly recommended
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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