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A Rose McHugh Mystery #3
Murder at Thornwood Park
For lovers of smart and witty cosy crime. Set within an intriguing village community of friends, neighbours (and enemies), all living at the edge of the atmospheric forests of the mysterious Southern Highlands, historian turned detective, Rose McHugh, channels her expert skills to solve an historical series of murders.
Who doesn't want to curl up with this fabulous lead character and a great supporting cast in a setting made for some murder and crime solving?
When historian Rose McHugh is left a mysterious bequest after the death of the reclusive heiress of Thornwood Park, she's excited to visit the estate.
But when Rose realises she may have found evidence of women going missing, she delves deeper. During World War II, the nearby Robertson Hotel housed trainees of the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force, who often attended lavish parties thrown by Thornwood's wealthy owners.
Unearthing a decades-old mystery is a challenge ... particularly when it may lead to the unmasking of a serial killer. And it appears that someone in the misty Southern Highlands will do anything to keep the killer's identity hidden.
Who doesn't want to curl up with this fabulous lead character and a great supporting cast in a setting made for some murder and crime solving?
When historian Rose McHugh is left a mysterious bequest after the death of the reclusive heiress of Thornwood Park, she's excited to visit the estate.
But when Rose realises she may have found evidence of women going missing, she delves deeper. During World War II, the nearby Robertson Hotel housed trainees of the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force, who often attended lavish parties thrown by Thornwood's wealthy owners.
Unearthing a decades-old mystery is a challenge ... particularly when it may lead to the unmasking of a serial killer. And it appears that someone in the misty Southern Highlands will do anything to keep the killer's identity hidden.
384 pages, Paperback
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
Joan Sauers
17 books57 followersBorn in New York and working in film and television in NY, London and Los Angeles, Sauers has lived in Australia for the last twenty-five years. She is the author of twelve books including Mothers & Daughters, Ageing Disgracefully, and Sex Lives of Australian Women. She is a consultant and lecturer in screenwriting in Australia, Europe and Morocco, and lives in Sydney with her talented cat, Blossom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 16, 2026
After thoroughly enjoying both Echo Lake and Whisky Valley, I was looking forward to catching up with Rose McHugh again. Returning to this series and spending time with Rose feels a little like catching up with an aunt you haven't seen in a while, only to find yourself swept into whatever murder mystery she's investigating next. One of my favourite things about these books is seeing what antics she'll get herself into, so I was eager to see where this latest investigation would take her.
This time, the mystery leads Rose to Thornwood Park, where long-buried secrets and a haunting piece of local history begin to resurface. While I was curious to uncover the truth, the investigation didn't draw me in quite as much as it had in the previous two books. It kept me interested enough to want answers, but I never felt completely absorbed by what was unfolding.
By the third instalment I should probably be used to the series' measured pacing, but there were stretches where I felt the story lingered a little too long. At times I was eager for the investigation to pick up momentum, and my attention drifted more than it had with the earlier books. It may simply be that I read all three novels so closely together, but some of the series' familiar rhythms didn't feel quite as fresh this time around. The cosy charm that drew me into Rose's earlier adventures was still there, but it didn't have quite the same hold over me.
Even so, Joan Sauers continues to create an engaging historical mystery with an easy-to-like protagonist at its heart. Although this wasn't my favourite of the trilogy, I still enjoyed spending time with Rose and would happily return if she finds herself caught up in another mystery.
This time, the mystery leads Rose to Thornwood Park, where long-buried secrets and a haunting piece of local history begin to resurface. While I was curious to uncover the truth, the investigation didn't draw me in quite as much as it had in the previous two books. It kept me interested enough to want answers, but I never felt completely absorbed by what was unfolding.
By the third instalment I should probably be used to the series' measured pacing, but there were stretches where I felt the story lingered a little too long. At times I was eager for the investigation to pick up momentum, and my attention drifted more than it had with the earlier books. It may simply be that I read all three novels so closely together, but some of the series' familiar rhythms didn't feel quite as fresh this time around. The cosy charm that drew me into Rose's earlier adventures was still there, but it didn't have quite the same hold over me.
Even so, Joan Sauers continues to create an engaging historical mystery with an easy-to-like protagonist at its heart. Although this wasn't my favourite of the trilogy, I still enjoyed spending time with Rose and would happily return if she finds herself caught up in another mystery.
June 14, 2026
This is the 3rd book in the series of Rose McHugh. When I read Echo Lake, I instantly connected to Rose. I loved all 3 books in this series. I love the way Joan writes. Im not usually a big historical fan but Joan has got me hooked to this series.
It's about a mystery, past and secrets.
What I loved about it, is Rose. She just can't help herself getting involved. She's relentless and witty and always making me laugh.
I can't recommend this series enough. One of the few series I have read all books.!!
It's about a mystery, past and secrets.
What I loved about it, is Rose. She just can't help herself getting involved. She's relentless and witty and always making me laugh.
I can't recommend this series enough. One of the few series I have read all books.!!
July 27, 2026
Review to come
September 4, 2026
Murder at Thornwood Park is the third book of the Rose McHugh Mystery series by @joan__sauers and it is a such a fantastic cozy crime read!
It was so nice to be back with Rose and the crew in the Southern Highlands for a new mystery!
The eerie feeling of the dilapidated estate had me intrigued from the very start and when Rose finds that there may be evidence of a decades old mystery of a number of women going missing, she is determined to discover what exactly has happened.
In the usual Rose style, she jumps right in, alongside with her band of endearing friends to try and solve this case that appears to have landed in her lap.
This read was incredibly atmospheric, with suspenseful twists and turns that kept me guessing. I loved how the tension was balanced with lighthearted moments and insight on the complexities of family relationships.
There are so many things that I love about Joan Sauers books! The intricate writing of mysteries that will keep you reading until the wee hours of the morning, the gorgeous backdrop of the Southern Highlands setting and getting to know Rose and her friends and family through out this series is an absolute delight.
I know that this has only recently been released but I cannot wait for the next instalment!
It was so nice to be back with Rose and the crew in the Southern Highlands for a new mystery!
The eerie feeling of the dilapidated estate had me intrigued from the very start and when Rose finds that there may be evidence of a decades old mystery of a number of women going missing, she is determined to discover what exactly has happened.
In the usual Rose style, she jumps right in, alongside with her band of endearing friends to try and solve this case that appears to have landed in her lap.
This read was incredibly atmospheric, with suspenseful twists and turns that kept me guessing. I loved how the tension was balanced with lighthearted moments and insight on the complexities of family relationships.
There are so many things that I love about Joan Sauers books! The intricate writing of mysteries that will keep you reading until the wee hours of the morning, the gorgeous backdrop of the Southern Highlands setting and getting to know Rose and her friends and family through out this series is an absolute delight.
I know that this has only recently been released but I cannot wait for the next instalment!
June 14, 2026
Big thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
The grandeur of a mansion and a sprawling estate invites curiosity, impression and the wonderment of what secrets it might behold.
The gentrified lineage has ended and the house and its secrets are open for public scrutiny as its chattels are disbursed by auction houses.
Local historian Rose McHugh has been tasked with collecting historical documents and records.
The extensive history starts to unravel as Rose discovers that a number of women connected to the house went missing around the Second World War era.
Meeting relatives and acquaintances of the missing women fuels a theory they have been victims of a serial killer.
With the help of her sister and others in the area she embarks on a mission to unearth the truth and help grieving relatives reconcile the fates of loved ones.
A jig saw completes, threats loom and sinister plots are at play in this fantastic story.
I was so taken in with the saturated atmospheric setting, the relationship between the sisters and how the plot kept me wondering and guessing.
The grandeur of a mansion and a sprawling estate invites curiosity, impression and the wonderment of what secrets it might behold.
The gentrified lineage has ended and the house and its secrets are open for public scrutiny as its chattels are disbursed by auction houses.
Local historian Rose McHugh has been tasked with collecting historical documents and records.
The extensive history starts to unravel as Rose discovers that a number of women connected to the house went missing around the Second World War era.
Meeting relatives and acquaintances of the missing women fuels a theory they have been victims of a serial killer.
With the help of her sister and others in the area she embarks on a mission to unearth the truth and help grieving relatives reconcile the fates of loved ones.
A jig saw completes, threats loom and sinister plots are at play in this fantastic story.
I was so taken in with the saturated atmospheric setting, the relationship between the sisters and how the plot kept me wondering and guessing.
July 17, 2026
i like this series because even though the plots are a little predictable, the characters are interesting and thoughtful, and it’s set in beautiful country that i love
August 25, 2026
Another witty Rose McHugh mystery from Australian author Joan Sauers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This read is set in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia, an area I have visited often in the past. Today the freeway bypasses this wonderful area but travelling on the old road will enhance the experience and a visit to historic Berrima and the beautiful Southern Highlands.
I loved the read, it ticked all the boxes for me, mystery, history, love and new beginnings.
Rose McHugh has found her tree change buying an old weatherboard cottage in the magical place of the southern highland’s town of Berrima where she now lives with dog Bob and works at the local Highlands Area Museum. She had planned on continuing her work as a researcher for television and film companies, however, the need to supplement her income became apparent and through good luck with the director retiring with her now established success in holding exhibitions honouring local heroes, the board offered Rose the job.
Out of the blue Rose receives a phone call from a solicitor who having been appointed chairman of a charitable foundation of a recently deceased famous local woman, advises Rose that the Highlands Area Museum (HAM) will be the recipient of anything that might be of historical interest to the region.
Rose tells her friend Helen who is ecstatic with the news. As she relates to Rose, the last surviving resident of Thornwood Park, Judith Longworth lived as a recluse even after her father had passed away. As Rose discovers the vibrant past and beauty surrounds of Thornwood had disintegrated into a tangle of overgrown bush when she arrives with the solicitor, Ken Aberdein.
Helen, a retired doctor is adamant that Rose not go there alone, there’s something not right about the house, Helen related, she had visited to attend to Judith’s ill father and was uncomfortable in the house, stating that there was a strange element there.
Almost immediately Rose feels an infinity to Judith; Ken points out items that could be of interest to HAM and Rose seems to connect with Judith, the perfume, the same as her mother had used and then there is the small portraiture of Judith with a similar hair style to that of her mother. Unable to resist, before leaving, Rose pockets the perfume.
Rose’s sister visits and they both head off to Thornwood Park; however, Kim is affected in a similar manner to that of Helen and can’t get out of the place quick enough. Kim’s visit changes the dynamics of Rose’s solitary life by her admitting that she’s in dire financial stress and wants to move in with her. Not particularly thrilled with the idea of a permanent arrangement there is initially friction between the two, Kim’s past history a thorn for Rose.
With the sheer scale that Rose has been able to collect to investigate, it all becomes a little daunting but in making a start the history of past events come to light. The Longworth family had held many gala events and balls at the estate and had supported the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force and their trainees who were based nearby and were invited to Thornwood Park.
As Rose delves more into the history of the Longworth family and events that took place there, she embarks on investigating some of the trainees in the photo of a ball that had taken place and the contents of a silver cigar box where she connects from the photo one of the young women wearing one of the trinkets from the cigar box. At first Rose thinks that Judith, as a child may have come across the trinkets and saved them, there would be no need as an adult, wealth would enable her to have beautiful jewellery, who collected the pieces?
Even though Rose was particularly mentioned in Judith’s will and of her desire that historical content of the estate to go to HAM, Rose is thwarted with some of her investigations that lead to her uncovering a mystery of missing trainees. Things become dangerous, items go missing from HAM and she is removed from her job. Not to be deterred Rose continues with her investigations and with her research training she knows how to dig into history. What happened to these young women and who is trying to stop her from finding out?
I received an ARC of this book, many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved the read, it ticked all the boxes for me, mystery, history, love and new beginnings.
Rose McHugh has found her tree change buying an old weatherboard cottage in the magical place of the southern highland’s town of Berrima where she now lives with dog Bob and works at the local Highlands Area Museum. She had planned on continuing her work as a researcher for television and film companies, however, the need to supplement her income became apparent and through good luck with the director retiring with her now established success in holding exhibitions honouring local heroes, the board offered Rose the job.
Out of the blue Rose receives a phone call from a solicitor who having been appointed chairman of a charitable foundation of a recently deceased famous local woman, advises Rose that the Highlands Area Museum (HAM) will be the recipient of anything that might be of historical interest to the region.
Rose tells her friend Helen who is ecstatic with the news. As she relates to Rose, the last surviving resident of Thornwood Park, Judith Longworth lived as a recluse even after her father had passed away. As Rose discovers the vibrant past and beauty surrounds of Thornwood had disintegrated into a tangle of overgrown bush when she arrives with the solicitor, Ken Aberdein.
Helen, a retired doctor is adamant that Rose not go there alone, there’s something not right about the house, Helen related, she had visited to attend to Judith’s ill father and was uncomfortable in the house, stating that there was a strange element there.
Almost immediately Rose feels an infinity to Judith; Ken points out items that could be of interest to HAM and Rose seems to connect with Judith, the perfume, the same as her mother had used and then there is the small portraiture of Judith with a similar hair style to that of her mother. Unable to resist, before leaving, Rose pockets the perfume.
Rose’s sister visits and they both head off to Thornwood Park; however, Kim is affected in a similar manner to that of Helen and can’t get out of the place quick enough. Kim’s visit changes the dynamics of Rose’s solitary life by her admitting that she’s in dire financial stress and wants to move in with her. Not particularly thrilled with the idea of a permanent arrangement there is initially friction between the two, Kim’s past history a thorn for Rose.
With the sheer scale that Rose has been able to collect to investigate, it all becomes a little daunting but in making a start the history of past events come to light. The Longworth family had held many gala events and balls at the estate and had supported the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force and their trainees who were based nearby and were invited to Thornwood Park.
As Rose delves more into the history of the Longworth family and events that took place there, she embarks on investigating some of the trainees in the photo of a ball that had taken place and the contents of a silver cigar box where she connects from the photo one of the young women wearing one of the trinkets from the cigar box. At first Rose thinks that Judith, as a child may have come across the trinkets and saved them, there would be no need as an adult, wealth would enable her to have beautiful jewellery, who collected the pieces?
Even though Rose was particularly mentioned in Judith’s will and of her desire that historical content of the estate to go to HAM, Rose is thwarted with some of her investigations that lead to her uncovering a mystery of missing trainees. Things become dangerous, items go missing from HAM and she is removed from her job. Not to be deterred Rose continues with her investigations and with her research training she knows how to dig into history. What happened to these young women and who is trying to stop her from finding out?
I received an ARC of this book, many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 13, 2026
Joan Sauers has done it again! The third book in her Southern Highlands mystery series is another fantastic read.
By now, I feel like I really know Rose McHugh. Opening each new book is like catching up with an old friend, and I loved accompanying her on this latest adventure. While she’s as determined and resourceful as ever, I also found myself really feeling for her as she navigated some personal challenges alongside another cleverly crafted mystery.
One of the things I love most about this series is the way Joan brings Rose to life through the little details. Whether it’s the books she reads or the music she listens to—this time Debussy’s The Girl with the Flaxen Hair—those shared touchstones make me feel even more connected to her. Knowing Joan’s own love of classical music makes those moments feel especially authentic.
The Southern Highlands remain as vivid as ever, creating a setting that’s every bit as engaging as the characters themselves. The mystery kept me guessing, but it’s Rose and the people around her who keep me coming back to this series.
I’m also thrilled that these books are being adapted for television, with Joan writing the screenplay herself. I can’t wait to see Rose and the Southern Highlands brought to the screen by the person who knows them best.
I closed the final page hoping this won’t be the last time I get to spend time with Rose. 🤞
By now, I feel like I really know Rose McHugh. Opening each new book is like catching up with an old friend, and I loved accompanying her on this latest adventure. While she’s as determined and resourceful as ever, I also found myself really feeling for her as she navigated some personal challenges alongside another cleverly crafted mystery.
One of the things I love most about this series is the way Joan brings Rose to life through the little details. Whether it’s the books she reads or the music she listens to—this time Debussy’s The Girl with the Flaxen Hair—those shared touchstones make me feel even more connected to her. Knowing Joan’s own love of classical music makes those moments feel especially authentic.
The Southern Highlands remain as vivid as ever, creating a setting that’s every bit as engaging as the characters themselves. The mystery kept me guessing, but it’s Rose and the people around her who keep me coming back to this series.
I’m also thrilled that these books are being adapted for television, with Joan writing the screenplay herself. I can’t wait to see Rose and the Southern Highlands brought to the screen by the person who knows them best.
I closed the final page hoping this won’t be the last time I get to spend time with Rose. 🤞
July 13, 2026
Set in and around Berrima in the NSW Southern Highlands, Murder at Thornwood Park gets more and more engaging as you read and as the danger and the sense of isolation grows for historian Rose McHugh. Tasked with retrieving historical documents from Thornwood Hall after the death of reclusive heroine Judith Longworth, it’s not long before Rose is immersed in the history of the hall and the family that lived there, particularly in the early years of WWII. As Rose discovers some mysterious jewellery in an elegant cigar case that she found in the attic, she starts to face one challenge after another starting with being accused of stealing the documents and the cigar box she’s taken for the museum where she works followed by being sacked for this apparent offense. I was fascinated by the discoveries Rose and her friends made during their investigation into the disappearance of a number of young traineers from the Women’s Auxilliary Air Force training centre near Thornwood in 1942 . The characters were mostly endearing and very easy to empathise with andas the mystery was finally solved, I felt a satisfied sense of completion. This has been my first Joan Sauers book and I am looking forward to more from this author.
July 21, 2026
A Rose McHugh investigation tale, Murder at Thornwood Park (2026) by Joan Sauers, is a decades-old mystery. Living in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Rose is the curator at the local museum. They are gifted local historic items from Thornwood Park Manor, after the death of its reclusive heiress. As Rose catalogues items, she discovers evidence of a missing woman during the Second World War. Rose investigates when she realises that someone is keen to keep the mystery a secret, and that she may have inadvertently sparked the interest of a serial killer. Although labelled a cosy crime mystery, Sauer’s novels are an interesting mix of intrigue, atmospheric bush setting, and a dramatic showdown with an ethereal element. Although part of a series, there is no need for prior knowledge to enjoy this crime tale as a fine standalone read, making it a four star rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
June 7, 2026
I’ve really been enjoying reading more cozy crimes this year and Murder at Thornwood Park by @joan__sauers is another great read in this genre. It was atmospheric, intriguing, mysterious and at times downright eerie and I really enjoyed it.
🔎 I really loved how this book started along with its eerie and haunting feel via the decaying estate and grounds. Both pulled me in straight away knowing a particular event was coming in the book and had me desperately wanting to find out what happens!
Rose is really tested personally and professionally throughout this book, and you do start to wonder if she is becoming obsessed and starting to loose touch with reality. But she is smart, determined and brave and still continues to fight for these women. Especially with her fabulous friends who are quick to support her weird and wonderful ways of investigating.
This is an intriguing cozy crime that is perfect to curl up in front of the fire with this winter and get lost in its pages.
Thank you to @allenandunwin for a copy to review.
🔎 I really loved how this book started along with its eerie and haunting feel via the decaying estate and grounds. Both pulled me in straight away knowing a particular event was coming in the book and had me desperately wanting to find out what happens!
Rose is really tested personally and professionally throughout this book, and you do start to wonder if she is becoming obsessed and starting to loose touch with reality. But she is smart, determined and brave and still continues to fight for these women. Especially with her fabulous friends who are quick to support her weird and wonderful ways of investigating.
This is an intriguing cozy crime that is perfect to curl up in front of the fire with this winter and get lost in its pages.
Thank you to @allenandunwin for a copy to review.
June 16, 2026
I loved Whiskey Valley by this author and so I was keen to read and review Murder at Thornwood Park.
This book is set in a beautiful part of NSW Australia and having recently visited the area I felt like I was being transported there by the authors words and descriptions. This book is an atmospheric read with an eerie serial killer storyline and enough mystery to keep you guessing. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a cozy mystery / crime that wants to curl up beside a roaring fireplace and devour in one sitting!
Thank you to the Publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book
This book is set in a beautiful part of NSW Australia and having recently visited the area I felt like I was being transported there by the authors words and descriptions. This book is an atmospheric read with an eerie serial killer storyline and enough mystery to keep you guessing. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a cozy mystery / crime that wants to curl up beside a roaring fireplace and devour in one sitting!
Thank you to the Publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book
June 24, 2026
This small town murder mystery centers on Rose, a historian living in a small Australian village. When Rose surprisingly is left a bequest from the heiress of a notable estate, she begins to uncover some disturbing secrets which makes her determined to find out what happened to several missing women all these years ago. Could this be the work of a serial killer?
This novel is suspenseful with a touch of spookiness. The writing style is quite straightforward and direct, making it easy to follow the plot. As the story is set in a small town, there is the presence of a close knit community and several friends whom Rose can always count on.
This novel is suspenseful with a touch of spookiness. The writing style is quite straightforward and direct, making it easy to follow the plot. As the story is set in a small town, there is the presence of a close knit community and several friends whom Rose can always count on.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 stars
Cosy crime set in the Bowral / Southern Highlands area. Another enjoyable instalment in the historian Rose McHugh series.
Rose is left a bequest after the death of a recluse who lived at Thornwood Park. As Rose delves into the history of the estate, she finds evidence she believes indicates missing women. Solving a long cold case proves extremely difficult but Rose refuses to concede.
Cosy crime set in the Bowral / Southern Highlands area. Another enjoyable instalment in the historian Rose McHugh series.
Rose is left a bequest after the death of a recluse who lived at Thornwood Park. As Rose delves into the history of the estate, she finds evidence she believes indicates missing women. Solving a long cold case proves extremely difficult but Rose refuses to concede.
June 8, 2026
If you’re looking for an atmospheric read with a chilling serial killer storyline and a touch of historical intrigue, Murder at Thornwood Park is the perfect choice. Beautifully written and richly detailed, the novel showcases the author’s extensive research into World War II. I was completely captivated from the very first page and couldn’t wait to uncover the secrets hidden within Thornwood Park.
July 18, 2026
I continue to enjoy the context of Rose in the Southern Highlands .. this one was a bit of a stretch in some parts but has a strong ending .. Rose is highly strung as always but her sister Kim, George, Jazzy and the other locals are well drawn.
Some of her conclusions from seemingly thin evidence around Thornwood House, Judith and the family are questionable. Nevertheless the atmosphere of the derelict property and the deceased estate are interesting.
Looking forward to the next Rose episode
Some of her conclusions from seemingly thin evidence around Thornwood House, Judith and the family are questionable. Nevertheless the atmosphere of the derelict property and the deceased estate are interesting.
Looking forward to the next Rose episode
August 12, 2026
With Joan Sauers' combination of mystery, humour, charm, tension, a whiff of URST (unresolved sexual tension) and the evocative beauty of the Southern Highlands locations, what's not to like? This is another brilliant cosy crime story with a cast of great characters and Rose's nose for trouble getting her into some creepy corners in a crumbling mansion full of ghosts. This series gets better each outing. The perfect winter night's read accompanied by a glass of mulled wine or a hot toddy.
August 15, 2026
Murder at Thornwood Park by Joan Sauers
Another enjoyable read about Rose and her adventures! Rose certainly knows how to keep herself entertained, and with the help of her friends, she manages to uncover and solve yet another mystery. I enjoyed following along as the clues unfolded, and the characters made this a fun and engaging read. A light, entertaining mystery that kept me turning the pages.
4 ⭐️
Another enjoyable read about Rose and her adventures! Rose certainly knows how to keep herself entertained, and with the help of her friends, she manages to uncover and solve yet another mystery. I enjoyed following along as the clues unfolded, and the characters made this a fun and engaging read. A light, entertaining mystery that kept me turning the pages.
4 ⭐️
June 17, 2026
This was an intriguing book. Lots of secrets, hidden information, present day obstruction and a mystery about missing women during WW2. I enjoyed the Rose character and the way she managed to track information down. Although book three in a series, it still works as a standalone book. However, I will definitely be seeking out the first two.
July 14, 2026
Goodness, Rose has grown as a character and matured as person! I thoroughly enjoyed every page of this novel. It had a solid plot, some likeable and not-so-likeable characters, all believeable and well rounded. The background and scenery of the Southern Highlands is the perfect backdrop. I can't wait to have the next instalment in my hands!
July 20, 2026
This was my first of the series and to be candid I doubt whether I will read the others.
This was SO SO predicatble and the story meandered to get where it was heading...
Like in all forms of creativity we all hav evarying opinions of the work presented.
Kobo. {paused to read an actual book }.
This was SO SO predicatble and the story meandered to get where it was heading...
Like in all forms of creativity we all hav evarying opinions of the work presented.
Kobo. {paused to read an actual book }.
July 23, 2026
4.5 because I love the setting, I love that Rose is not sure of herseld but is surrounded by those who support her. Her super sister has her own issues, which impact Rose. The historical part is well done, and not overpowering as in many novels where there is a 'sixty years ago this happened'
July 26, 2026
Another great story with Rose McHugh getting involved once again to a mystery that is the maybe death of 3 women. Said again in the Australian Highlands. Bob is still a great character in the book along with George and others. We are also meeting Kim in more depth. Loved it.
June 15, 2026
Ready for the next one!!!
June 19, 2026
I am sure to historical crime fans this hits the spot, it is well written and flows nicely. Just didnt grasp me.
Read
July 2, 2026GOOD READ READ IN A FEW DAYS
July 6, 2026
Rose McHugh is back in another Southern Highlands thriller.
When Rose becomes involved in a deceased estate sale of a wealthy recluse, she uncovers evidence of historical crimes and a mystery that she will stop at nothing to unravel. Even when that mystery becomes alarmingly dangerous.
When Rose becomes involved in a deceased estate sale of a wealthy recluse, she uncovers evidence of historical crimes and a mystery that she will stop at nothing to unravel. Even when that mystery becomes alarmingly dangerous.
July 9, 2026
Really really enjoyed this. I didn’t realise it was a series, will definitely be finding the others to read.
I fell in love with Rose.
I fell in love with Rose.
July 17, 2026
4.5 stars - review to come
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews