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Havelock Harper Mysteries #1
The Killing of a Chestnut Tree
Not yet published
Expected 27 Oct 26Be gay, solve crimes! The Killing of a Chestnut Tree introduces Havelock Harper, an all-new queer gentleman detective in the tradition of Sherlock Holmes, with a cozy, fantastical mystery.
"I loved this book! Havelock and Sebastian are such great company, brilliant, approachable, fascinating, their relationship is real and touching and relatable. And the mystery is riveting." —#1 New York Times bestselling author LOUISE PENNY
Everyone in England knows Havelock Harper, the celebrated consulting detective, from the cases published in the papers. If any of them read his secret files, they would discover a very different man. His most fantastical cases must never reach the public eye, and nor must the love he shares with his stalwart companion, the formidable Major Sebastian Wright.
The Duke of Farleigh has been killed, and Havelock Harper summoned to the secluded Farleigh Forest to solve his murder. When he and Sebastian arrive, they discover a greater mystery. The trees of Farleigh have begun to speak, writing words into their leaves and bark. The victim is one of those an ancient chestnut, cruelly chopped down.
Why has the forest begun to speak? Why would anyone cut down the Duke? And how can Farleigh’s gentle, quiet paradise survive this crime?
"I loved this book! Havelock and Sebastian are such great company, brilliant, approachable, fascinating, their relationship is real and touching and relatable. And the mystery is riveting." —#1 New York Times bestselling author LOUISE PENNY
Everyone in England knows Havelock Harper, the celebrated consulting detective, from the cases published in the papers. If any of them read his secret files, they would discover a very different man. His most fantastical cases must never reach the public eye, and nor must the love he shares with his stalwart companion, the formidable Major Sebastian Wright.
The Duke of Farleigh has been killed, and Havelock Harper summoned to the secluded Farleigh Forest to solve his murder. When he and Sebastian arrive, they discover a greater mystery. The trees of Farleigh have begun to speak, writing words into their leaves and bark. The victim is one of those an ancient chestnut, cruelly chopped down.
Why has the forest begun to speak? Why would anyone cut down the Duke? And how can Farleigh’s gentle, quiet paradise survive this crime?
176 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 27, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Killing of a Chestnut Tree is one part historical cozy mystery, one part queer romance, and one part magical realism. This novella takes the bare bones of Sherlock Holmes and imparts a cozy overlay focused on relationships and the soothing magic a forest provides to unsettled souls.
The "Sherlock and Watson" duo of Havelock Harper and Major Sebastian Wright is at once close to the source material and also very different. Wright, similar to Watson, serves mostly as the narrative device by which we readers are granted the stories. This works well, but for a modern audience it may seem that Wright has no agency of his own until the end. For example, we get descriptions of a person based on what Havelock tells Major Wright, not the Major's own opinions. Havelock is much calmer and focused than Holmes. The romantic relationship between Havelock and Wright is a key component of the story and is mirrored in the two other gentlemen who begin the novella.
The magical realism comes into play with the trees. It takes a little suspension of disbelief for the answer to why the trees are "speaking," but it is a compelling part of the story. The mystery plot is well done and makes sense. There are several suspects and clues to pick up along the way. In true Sherlockian fashion, Havelock spends a good bit of the end expounding on his conclusions which seem conceivable and clear.
The prose begins in 2nd person POV. This may throw off some readers as this isn't a perspective that is often used. It does make sense as you read along and discover the reason. The rest of the book focuses on the Mystery of Farleigh Forest and adopts an easy storytelling tone. Even though this can be read like a detective story, it is very cozy in feel — even the "murder" is lessened by having the victim be a tree!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for the opportunity to read the eARC of this novella. I would recommend for those that want a low-stakes detective story or a relaxing read, something that will both flex your sleuthing skills while also making you smile and wish you were in a forest of word-smith trees.
The "Sherlock and Watson" duo of Havelock Harper and Major Sebastian Wright is at once close to the source material and also very different. Wright, similar to Watson, serves mostly as the narrative device by which we readers are granted the stories. This works well, but for a modern audience it may seem that Wright has no agency of his own until the end. For example, we get descriptions of a person based on what Havelock tells Major Wright, not the Major's own opinions. Havelock is much calmer and focused than Holmes. The romantic relationship between Havelock and Wright is a key component of the story and is mirrored in the two other gentlemen who begin the novella.
The magical realism comes into play with the trees. It takes a little suspension of disbelief for the answer to why the trees are "speaking," but it is a compelling part of the story. The mystery plot is well done and makes sense. There are several suspects and clues to pick up along the way. In true Sherlockian fashion, Havelock spends a good bit of the end expounding on his conclusions which seem conceivable and clear.
The prose begins in 2nd person POV. This may throw off some readers as this isn't a perspective that is often used. It does make sense as you read along and discover the reason. The rest of the book focuses on the Mystery of Farleigh Forest and adopts an easy storytelling tone. Even though this can be read like a detective story, it is very cozy in feel — even the "murder" is lessened by having the victim be a tree!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for the opportunity to read the eARC of this novella. I would recommend for those that want a low-stakes detective story or a relaxing read, something that will both flex your sleuthing skills while also making you smile and wish you were in a forest of word-smith trees.
June 13, 2026
4.25⭐️
Thank you to TOR/TORDOTCOM for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The Killing of a Chestnut Tree is a whimsical and charming novella with a wholly unique mystery afoot. Between Interludes, we follow renowned detectives, Havelock and Sebastian, as they are invited to a quiet town to solve the case of a murder. However, to their surprise, it was a felled tree known as "The Duke of Farliegh."
As they investigate the murder, they come to know the town and its people, and learn that it may have more mysteries than meet the eye. There is something unique about Farleigh Forest, a place where the trees tell just as many stories as its people do.
This book was a lovely mix of cozy and philosophical. It has the delightful charm of a historical mystery akin to How to Fake It in Society by KJ Charles, but leaves you thinking in a way that A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers might. It is queer joy personified, which is always very welcome in a historical setting. A perfect little mystery for those who just knew Sherlock and Watson were actually in love.
I at times felt that the Interludes took me out of the story, so I just wished that they had been expanded upon. Otherwise, a very pleasant read that made my brain feel calm. I see this is the start of a series, and I am gladly anticipating the next installment!
Thank you to TOR/TORDOTCOM for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The Killing of a Chestnut Tree is a whimsical and charming novella with a wholly unique mystery afoot. Between Interludes, we follow renowned detectives, Havelock and Sebastian, as they are invited to a quiet town to solve the case of a murder. However, to their surprise, it was a felled tree known as "The Duke of Farliegh."
As they investigate the murder, they come to know the town and its people, and learn that it may have more mysteries than meet the eye. There is something unique about Farleigh Forest, a place where the trees tell just as many stories as its people do.
This book was a lovely mix of cozy and philosophical. It has the delightful charm of a historical mystery akin to How to Fake It in Society by KJ Charles, but leaves you thinking in a way that A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers might. It is queer joy personified, which is always very welcome in a historical setting. A perfect little mystery for those who just knew Sherlock and Watson were actually in love.
I at times felt that the Interludes took me out of the story, so I just wished that they had been expanded upon. Otherwise, a very pleasant read that made my brain feel calm. I see this is the start of a series, and I am gladly anticipating the next installment!
Review of advance copy received from Shelf Awareness Pro
I received an advance copy of this book. Thank you.
This novella is a charming, easy read. Although short, there is a lot going on in the book, a story within a story.
Havelock and Sebastian are detectives, similar to Sherlock Holmes and Watson, Sebastian being the right-hand man. Havelock's skills are known throughout England, helped in large part by the fact that a lot of their cases, written up by Sebastian, are published in the paper on a regular basis. So, it is never a surprise that people seek them out to help solve their quandary.
One night, two security guards, Emmett and Henry, discover flowers in places they couldn't possibly get, and since both were devoted fans of Havelock, Emmett seek him out for advice. Both gentlemen listen to Emmett with respect and think over the situation, promising to give him some suggestions.
In addition to practical advice, such as logging in the occurrences, a package is delivered to Emmett, in the package is a case, that has never been shared. The investigation of the death of the Duke of Farleigh. The duke is a large, majestic tree, and he is very special as all the trees in Farleigh are. As Emmett and Henry read it, they realize the trust they have been given, and their eyes open up to their own relationship.
This novella is a charming, easy read. Although short, there is a lot going on in the book, a story within a story.
Havelock and Sebastian are detectives, similar to Sherlock Holmes and Watson, Sebastian being the right-hand man. Havelock's skills are known throughout England, helped in large part by the fact that a lot of their cases, written up by Sebastian, are published in the paper on a regular basis. So, it is never a surprise that people seek them out to help solve their quandary.
One night, two security guards, Emmett and Henry, discover flowers in places they couldn't possibly get, and since both were devoted fans of Havelock, Emmett seek him out for advice. Both gentlemen listen to Emmett with respect and think over the situation, promising to give him some suggestions.
In addition to practical advice, such as logging in the occurrences, a package is delivered to Emmett, in the package is a case, that has never been shared. The investigation of the death of the Duke of Farleigh. The duke is a large, majestic tree, and he is very special as all the trees in Farleigh are. As Emmett and Henry read it, they realize the trust they have been given, and their eyes open up to their own relationship.
Review of advance copy received from Shelf Awareness Pro
Thank you Tor Publishing for this ARC book.
The set up of this novella is clever. The shorter format corresponds to how the story would have been published during this time, however the novella also includes a personalized letter for the reader another detective solving a mystery of his own. I really enjoyed how this smaller mystery tied into the rest of the book. The idea of this story still being written down for posterity's sake the same as their previous cases but passed on to be kept privately by a friend helped the world building, while we may just be meeting these characters they are established detectives. The way the setting blended the historic setting with some elements of magical realism was so well done and absolutely worked for the cozy vibes while keeping up the intrigue. Most importantly I love this book for it's depiction of Queer joy, these are characters living within the confides of the time carving out their own space for themselves. I appreciate the author staying true to the history there, as it is an important reminder that all through history there have been people who have outwardly fit in but in private found a way to make their own community of love and support.
The set up of this novella is clever. The shorter format corresponds to how the story would have been published during this time, however the novella also includes a personalized letter for the reader another detective solving a mystery of his own. I really enjoyed how this smaller mystery tied into the rest of the book. The idea of this story still being written down for posterity's sake the same as their previous cases but passed on to be kept privately by a friend helped the world building, while we may just be meeting these characters they are established detectives. The way the setting blended the historic setting with some elements of magical realism was so well done and absolutely worked for the cozy vibes while keeping up the intrigue. Most importantly I love this book for it's depiction of Queer joy, these are characters living within the confides of the time carving out their own space for themselves. I appreciate the author staying true to the history there, as it is an important reminder that all through history there have been people who have outwardly fit in but in private found a way to make their own community of love and support.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Tor Publishing Group / Tordotcom for sending me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review!!
3.5 stars. Anyone who knows me knows I don't often dwell in the cozy mystery-romance section of the bookstore... BUT this novella has made my heart grow three sizes this day. This was a delight!
It's hard to believe that Havelock Harper makes his debut here rather than in a long series of prior novellas, since both Havelock and Sebastian feel so deeply grounded as characters already. Their relationship was heartwarming and not completely unrealistic considering "the times". I also really loved this book's perspective: super refreshing and a nice twist on the traditional Sherlockian detective story, one that I hope will become a staple of future instalments.
The mystery itself was delightfully silly, albeit a bit convoluted in its answer. Despite that and some noticeable repetition, The Killing of a Chestnut Tree put me at ease, as if I were invited into Farleigh myself to partake in the mystery and the ambience.
I hope there are a dozen more of these coming. I will happily read them all.
3.5 stars. Anyone who knows me knows I don't often dwell in the cozy mystery-romance section of the bookstore... BUT this novella has made my heart grow three sizes this day. This was a delight!
It's hard to believe that Havelock Harper makes his debut here rather than in a long series of prior novellas, since both Havelock and Sebastian feel so deeply grounded as characters already. Their relationship was heartwarming and not completely unrealistic considering "the times". I also really loved this book's perspective: super refreshing and a nice twist on the traditional Sherlockian detective story, one that I hope will become a staple of future instalments.
The mystery itself was delightfully silly, albeit a bit convoluted in its answer. Despite that and some noticeable repetition, The Killing of a Chestnut Tree put me at ease, as if I were invited into Farleigh myself to partake in the mystery and the ambience.
I hope there are a dozen more of these coming. I will happily read them all.
May 20, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for the Advanced Reader Copy 💖
I didn’t know anything else about this book other than the tagline “be gay, solve crimes” but that was enough to have me requesting it through NetGalley.
This speculative novel is wonderful and meditative and soft. I loved walking along the Farleigh Forest, the respect given to all living things throughout, the tenderness, care and consideration.
I would read 1828282 more Havelock tales
Overall lovely and enchanting prose but here are two standouts:
"You and I are not as unusual
as you might imagine."
"Nonsense," I told him. "We
are extraordinary."
[He] tells me that love reveals love—that seeing it in others helps you recognise it in yourself—and I have rarely known him to be mistaken about anything.
I didn’t know anything else about this book other than the tagline “be gay, solve crimes” but that was enough to have me requesting it through NetGalley.
This speculative novel is wonderful and meditative and soft. I loved walking along the Farleigh Forest, the respect given to all living things throughout, the tenderness, care and consideration.
I would read 1828282 more Havelock tales
Overall lovely and enchanting prose but here are two standouts:
"You and I are not as unusual
as you might imagine."
"Nonsense," I told him. "We
are extraordinary."
[He] tells me that love reveals love—that seeing it in others helps you recognise it in yourself—and I have rarely known him to be mistaken about anything.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I did not expect to be as affected by this novella as I was, and I encourage the reader to go into this with an open mind. I wish this had been a full-length novel, but at the same, realise that there is beauty in simplicity as well. Havelock and Sebastian are a wonderful detective duo, immediately trustworthy in their experience and skill. The queerness of this book was also incredibly beautiful. Most stories set during this historical period are either unrealistic or tragic, not interested in the reality of queer joy and heartbreak being intwined. This novella delivers not only that, but a compelling mystery as well. I cannot recommend this book enough. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an eArc of this title.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Charming and peaceful, The Killing of a Chestnut Tree is a short but leisurely-paced mystery reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes. A renowned detective and his loyal companion set off on a journey to discover who felled an ancient and beloved tree. A secondary story about two workers trying to figure out where how mysterious flowers are appearing in their warehouse is intercut between the chapters of the main story. The book is structured to feel like a serialized story. The tone is serene, highlighting the beauty of nature and of queer love.
Suggested for readers who enjoyed A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers.
Thanks to Macmillan and Edelweiss for providing me with an eARC.
Suggested for readers who enjoyed A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers.
Thanks to Macmillan and Edelweiss for providing me with an eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This short novel has elements of both fantasy and mystery and is the first in a new series (Havelock Harper Mysteries). The sweet story, set in an isolated village with very special trees, reminded me of the books by TJ Klune. It takes place in an unspecified time but one where being gay would not be accepted and the Sherlock like detective and his Watson like companion must hide their affection for each other and dream of a world that is different. Thanks to Edelweiss+ for the digital advance reading copy. It is a lovely, thought-provoking story! 4/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I did not expect this book, but I loved being submerged in the story. I fantasize often about what would happen if we could ever truly communicate with trees. This is not that story, precisely, but it lets me dream on an intense and beautiful level. The relationships at the heart of the story are sweet and comforting. While I wasn’t convinced about the framing story, it won me over at the end. Gorgeous. I hope there are more Havelock stories to come.
Advanced Readers Copy provided by edelweiss.
Advanced Readers Copy provided by edelweiss.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cute novella. Decently paced and intriguing. I did not particularly care for the second person framing in the novella, and I do enjoy second person usually. It felt a bit off for me personally. It is a good read for people looking for something light hearted and cozy. It feels like a good rainy day read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A delightful quiet book that feels like floating alone in a lake. On the surface, a solid fantasy tinged mystery with an intriguing problem and interesting suspect pool. Beneath, a story of the ways love changes as we do and the way we in turn are changed by it.
Thanks to Tor Publishing Group for the ARC!
Thanks to Tor Publishing Group for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This novella introduces Havelock and Sebastian, crime solvers in London, who are very similar to Holmes and Watson. Their assistance is required to solve a duke's murder. They later learn this duke is actually a tree, whose presence is very important to the residents of Farleigh. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
May 2, 2026
Such a sweet cozy story of love and murder.
I’ve never read anything by this author so the writing took me by surprise. Very quotable and soft writing, and it fit the story and narration beautifully. I’m excited to continue in this series of acceptance and love, oh and more murder!
I’ve never read anything by this author so the writing took me by surprise. Very quotable and soft writing, and it fit the story and narration beautifully. I’m excited to continue in this series of acceptance and love, oh and more murder!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Be Gay, Solve Crimes! - I'm sold! The premise of a murdered tree does seem peculiar, but I promise if you roll with it, you'll get to enjoy such a lighthearted, cozy read. Delightful characters, a charming mystery, and an appreciation for love and nature. Highly recommend.
4.25/5 stars
4.25/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A quick and sweet read - I think this would have made an even crisper short story or a better novel if fleshed out further. I enjoyed it but don't think it was particularly special or groundbreaking.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The killing of a chestnut tree is a short novel that is both cozy fantasy and a mystery. It's very reminiscent of TJ Klune in style, which I love.
The mystery was intriguing, the writing not overly modern as it's a historical fiction and the romance is barely there but I liked what I saw.
I highly recommend it.
Thank you Netgalley and Tordotcom for the ARC!
The mystery was intriguing, the writing not overly modern as it's a historical fiction and the romance is barely there but I liked what I saw.
I highly recommend it.
Thank you Netgalley and Tordotcom for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What lovely little book. Short, sweet, and perfect for pride month.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
What a lovely cozy little mystery! The characters were all delightful, the mystery was charming, and the pace was wonderfully calm. A great read!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
A gentle queer pastiche, and a quick read. I'd definitely read more books in this universe.
Read
July 1, 2026A gently romantic, clever, poetic and cozy whodunnit filled with both whimsy and wit.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
netgalley/tor
i need more to this. it’s very sweet novelette and all but this was too short and i couldn’t have used more of the mystery.
i need more to this. it’s very sweet novelette and all but this was too short and i couldn’t have used more of the mystery.
June 28, 2026
My thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review 'The Killing of a Chestnut Tree' before its official publication date.
You know that feeling when you've gone for a walk and you are sitting enjoying the peace and tranquility of the natural world surrounding you. No phones, no burdens weighing you down. The feeling of a calming and soul nourishing hug. That's what this book felt like to read. No hurry, no jeopardy, no angst or terror. 'The Killing of a Chestnut Tree' brought me some peace whilst reading. I enjoyed the pacing and the unusual narrative style. Evoking the world of Sherlock Holmes, Havelock Harper and the Major set out to find the person who murdered the Duke of Farleigh. What they stumble upon is a unique community that seeks to be invisible and live outwith the reaches of the Empire. The trees are an important character in this novel, they have their own story to tell.
I look forward to the next instalment.
You know that feeling when you've gone for a walk and you are sitting enjoying the peace and tranquility of the natural world surrounding you. No phones, no burdens weighing you down. The feeling of a calming and soul nourishing hug. That's what this book felt like to read. No hurry, no jeopardy, no angst or terror. 'The Killing of a Chestnut Tree' brought me some peace whilst reading. I enjoyed the pacing and the unusual narrative style. Evoking the world of Sherlock Holmes, Havelock Harper and the Major set out to find the person who murdered the Duke of Farleigh. What they stumble upon is a unique community that seeks to be invisible and live outwith the reaches of the Empire. The trees are an important character in this novel, they have their own story to tell.
I look forward to the next instalment.
June 18, 2026
This was cute and fun but MAN oh man did I wish it was a full-length novel. It needed another 100 pages to really make you feel one with the story. It just felt so short and easy that it made me not really ever feel like I was IN the story.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews