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Death in the New Forest
Welcome to England’s New Forest, where wild ponies roam the empty heathlands. And clinging mists and towering pines hide many a secret . . .
Detective Elinor Saxby leaves the city for a crooked little cottage near sleepy Lyndhurst village. It’s not exactly her dream home, cut off from everything and everyone she’s ever known. But Elinor will do anything to leave her troubled past behind.
She can run from her demons. But she can’t hide.
The very next morning, Elinor gets a call from her new sergeant.
A woman’s been found dead. Drowned in the pool of her luxury woodland spa. Her silk gown is ruined. Her perfect skin marred by livid red hand prints.
But it’s not these details that send Elinor spiralling in panic. It’s the victim’s name. Because the dead woman is no stranger to Elinor. She texted just last night to ask Elinor one last favour.
Now the only favour Elinor can do her is to find her killer.
The Sleuth
Forty-something Elinor Saxby is a Birmingham CID legend: disciplined, intelligent and independent to a fault. A gifted detective chief inspector who should have climbed even higher — were it not for the deeply traumatic case that ruined everything. Leaving her battling insomnia, PTSD and a lingering sense that she’ll never fully outrun her past. Will moving to New Forest CID — and a secluded new home in the country — bring Elinor the peace she craves? Or is she about to get more than she bargained for . . . ?
The Setting
New Forest National Park is a place of bleak beauty: an ancient landscape of dense pine woods, open heathland and winding lanes where wild ponies roam freely. The air is thick with the scent of resin and salt from the nearby coast, and the shifting light through the trees creates pockets of shadow and secrecy. Idyllic on the surface, with its secluded villages and luxury retreats, it is also a place where isolation runs deep — where something can happen unseen, and the forest itself seems to hold its breath.
Detective Elinor Saxby leaves the city for a crooked little cottage near sleepy Lyndhurst village. It’s not exactly her dream home, cut off from everything and everyone she’s ever known. But Elinor will do anything to leave her troubled past behind.
She can run from her demons. But she can’t hide.
The very next morning, Elinor gets a call from her new sergeant.
A woman’s been found dead. Drowned in the pool of her luxury woodland spa. Her silk gown is ruined. Her perfect skin marred by livid red hand prints.
But it’s not these details that send Elinor spiralling in panic. It’s the victim’s name. Because the dead woman is no stranger to Elinor. She texted just last night to ask Elinor one last favour.
Now the only favour Elinor can do her is to find her killer.
The Sleuth
Forty-something Elinor Saxby is a Birmingham CID legend: disciplined, intelligent and independent to a fault. A gifted detective chief inspector who should have climbed even higher — were it not for the deeply traumatic case that ruined everything. Leaving her battling insomnia, PTSD and a lingering sense that she’ll never fully outrun her past. Will moving to New Forest CID — and a secluded new home in the country — bring Elinor the peace she craves? Or is she about to get more than she bargained for . . . ?
The Setting
New Forest National Park is a place of bleak beauty: an ancient landscape of dense pine woods, open heathland and winding lanes where wild ponies roam freely. The air is thick with the scent of resin and salt from the nearby coast, and the shifting light through the trees creates pockets of shadow and secrecy. Idyllic on the surface, with its secluded villages and luxury retreats, it is also a place where isolation runs deep — where something can happen unseen, and the forest itself seems to hold its breath.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2026
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June 23, 2026
This is the first novel in Linda Mather’s ‘New Forest Murders’ series. Detective Chief Inspector Elinor Saxby has relocated from urban Birmingham to lead the New Forest CID, a change of scene following a harrowing case involving a dead baby for which she received counselling. Her life does not become any less troubled. Almost as soon as she arrives in the New Forest Saxby receives a text from Candice Beddowes, her counsellor who lives locally, asking her to call as Beddowes wants to ask her about something. Saxby calls but there’s no answer. The next morning Beddowes is found dead in a hotel swimming pool.
Saxby has to cope with investigating whether Beddowes’s death was an accident or murder at the same time as feeling guilt over not getting in touch with the dead woman in time. She has to admit to her superiors and investigating team that she knew Beddowes, even if much of her counselling was not in person. It is soon established that Beddowes’s death is suspicious. New links start to appear. Latif Akbhani, a worker at the hotel, was killed in a road accident on the night Beddowes died. His brother disappears immediately afterwards. Both men lived at a car wash, the owner of which is unknown. The daughter of the local MP knew Latif at school. There is a missing passport.
Saxby doesn’t just have to deal with the investigation. Her predecessor, well-liked by his colleagues, left in circumstances that are not fully explained, and she finds that her team resents her arrival and some of its members are difficult to deal with. She is also understaffed, and this leads her to request the transfer of a former colleague in Birmingham (DI Craig Stapleton) to whom she is clearly close. Prominent in the investigation is young Detective Constable Nancy Li from the fast-track programme, and the novel follows her first steps in a murder case. She can be guilty of over-enthusiasm and going off piste on her own. A more experienced officer who has his suspicions says to her at one point: ‘I don’t want you turning into one of these maverick cops.’
The plot and its various strands develop rapidly. The lives of those affected by Beddowes’s death as well as her own previous lifestyle come under scrutiny. The National Crime Agency becomes involved. There is more than one potential and actual villain. Death in the New Forest is a convincing, well-written and extremely readable novel which holds the reader’s attention on every page. It is also an excellent first instalment of a series as it leaves many questions about Saxby’s personal and professional relationships unexplained. What exactly does Craig Stapleton mean to her? Will he eventually join her? And what about Stephen Farrell from the NCA? Will she manage to win over her team completely (there are signs they are softening towards her)? I’m sure these subjects will be explored further. I am very happy to recommend this novel with enthusiasm.
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Reviewer: David Whittle
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
Saxby has to cope with investigating whether Beddowes’s death was an accident or murder at the same time as feeling guilt over not getting in touch with the dead woman in time. She has to admit to her superiors and investigating team that she knew Beddowes, even if much of her counselling was not in person. It is soon established that Beddowes’s death is suspicious. New links start to appear. Latif Akbhani, a worker at the hotel, was killed in a road accident on the night Beddowes died. His brother disappears immediately afterwards. Both men lived at a car wash, the owner of which is unknown. The daughter of the local MP knew Latif at school. There is a missing passport.
Saxby doesn’t just have to deal with the investigation. Her predecessor, well-liked by his colleagues, left in circumstances that are not fully explained, and she finds that her team resents her arrival and some of its members are difficult to deal with. She is also understaffed, and this leads her to request the transfer of a former colleague in Birmingham (DI Craig Stapleton) to whom she is clearly close. Prominent in the investigation is young Detective Constable Nancy Li from the fast-track programme, and the novel follows her first steps in a murder case. She can be guilty of over-enthusiasm and going off piste on her own. A more experienced officer who has his suspicions says to her at one point: ‘I don’t want you turning into one of these maverick cops.’
The plot and its various strands develop rapidly. The lives of those affected by Beddowes’s death as well as her own previous lifestyle come under scrutiny. The National Crime Agency becomes involved. There is more than one potential and actual villain. Death in the New Forest is a convincing, well-written and extremely readable novel which holds the reader’s attention on every page. It is also an excellent first instalment of a series as it leaves many questions about Saxby’s personal and professional relationships unexplained. What exactly does Craig Stapleton mean to her? Will he eventually join her? And what about Stephen Farrell from the NCA? Will she manage to win over her team completely (there are signs they are softening towards her)? I’m sure these subjects will be explored further. I am very happy to recommend this novel with enthusiasm.
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Reviewer: David Whittle
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
May 14, 2026
This was my first book by Linda Mather, and I was completely drawn in from the very first pages. There’s something about her writing style that just pulls you straight into the atmosphere—moody, immersive, and quietly unsettling in a way that makes it almost impossible to step away.
What really stood out to me was how effortlessly the story unfolded. Even with a wider cast—something that can sometimes feel overwhelming in police procedurals—every character was introduced with purpose and clarity. I never once felt lost, which meant I could stay fully absorbed in the investigation as it developed.
And what an investigation it was. The tension builds steadily, with each thread feeling carefully placed and meaningful. I genuinely didn’t know who was responsible, and I loved that constant sense of uncertainty—it kept me questioning everything and everyone. I couldn’t stop reading; I needed to know what was going on, and there was absolutely no chance I was getting any sleep without finding out who was behind it all.
Nothing felt rushed or thrown in for effect—it all felt deliberate and well thought out, which made the whole experience even more satisfying.
But beyond the mystery itself, it’s the characters that have really stayed with me—especially within the police team. There’s a clear sense that there’s so much more beneath the surface, across all ranks, and that we’ve only just scratched the surface of who they are. I’m already invested, and I can’t wait to learn more about them in future books.
I read this in a matter of hours, completely forgetting about everything else for the day—which always says everything. As soon as I finished, I went straight onto my Kindle and bought Linda Mather’s previous series, because I already know this is an author I’ll keep coming back to.
What really stood out to me was how effortlessly the story unfolded. Even with a wider cast—something that can sometimes feel overwhelming in police procedurals—every character was introduced with purpose and clarity. I never once felt lost, which meant I could stay fully absorbed in the investigation as it developed.
And what an investigation it was. The tension builds steadily, with each thread feeling carefully placed and meaningful. I genuinely didn’t know who was responsible, and I loved that constant sense of uncertainty—it kept me questioning everything and everyone. I couldn’t stop reading; I needed to know what was going on, and there was absolutely no chance I was getting any sleep without finding out who was behind it all.
Nothing felt rushed or thrown in for effect—it all felt deliberate and well thought out, which made the whole experience even more satisfying.
But beyond the mystery itself, it’s the characters that have really stayed with me—especially within the police team. There’s a clear sense that there’s so much more beneath the surface, across all ranks, and that we’ve only just scratched the surface of who they are. I’m already invested, and I can’t wait to learn more about them in future books.
I read this in a matter of hours, completely forgetting about everything else for the day—which always says everything. As soon as I finished, I went straight onto my Kindle and bought Linda Mather’s previous series, because I already know this is an author I’ll keep coming back to.
May 15, 2026
DCI Elinor Saxby has moved from the West Midlands to take up a new post at the New Forest CID in West Hampshire and Dorset but finds a fragmented team, DI Michelle Charteris put on maternity leave and DI Nick Eastman working away and very reluctant to come back to assist her. She has the older reliable DS Les Cottrill, experienced officers DS Liv Harvey and DC Greta Caulfield, and a brand-new DC Nancy Li eager to impress. She begs her old DI Craig Stapleton to come down and join her. On only her second evening she receives a call from her trauma counsellor Candice Beddowes asking for help, something very out of the ordinary but Candice does not pick up when she calls back. Elinor is then shocked to hear her team’s new case the following day is that of Candice’s suspicious death. A healthy fit woman found drowned in the pool at the Orchard Hill Boutique Spa. Could it merely have been a drunken accident or a deliberate assault? Could the death of the maintenance man from the hotel that same night be connected? Who around Candice is keeping secrets? While Elinor finds her feet and starts to pull her team together, she may not be able to help Candice in life but certainly hopes she can at least gain justice for her now.
This is the introduction to the series and many new characters, some of whom take a while to warm to. I liked Elinor but clearly some of her team, loyal to their old DCI, will be taking much longer to appreciate their new boss. The story has a good twisty and complex plot with lots of suspicious goings-on and plenty to keep the reader engrossed as everyone finds their place and brings different skills to solving the case. I am looking forward to book two now that Elinor is settling into her new role having made a magnificent start! 4.5*
This is the introduction to the series and many new characters, some of whom take a while to warm to. I liked Elinor but clearly some of her team, loyal to their old DCI, will be taking much longer to appreciate their new boss. The story has a good twisty and complex plot with lots of suspicious goings-on and plenty to keep the reader engrossed as everyone finds their place and brings different skills to solving the case. I am looking forward to book two now that Elinor is settling into her new role having made a magnificent start! 4.5*
May 15, 2026
There’s something wonderfully deceptive about the New Forest — all that drifting mist and quiet beauty masking the darker edges beneath. Death in the New Forest leans into that contrast from the very first page, offering a mystery that feels both grounded in place and tinged with unease.
Elinor Saxby’s arrival is steeped in that fragile hope of starting over, though it’s clear the forest isn’t going to let her settle quietly. Her crooked little cottage, her isolation, the weight she’s trying so hard to outrun — it all creates this gentle tension that hums beneath the story. And when a woman is found dead in the pool of a luxury woodland spa, the case becomes painfully personal, pulling Elinor back into a past she’d rather keep buried.
What follows is a slow, atmospheric unraveling, full of shifting loyalties, old wounds, and the kind of secrets that thrive in close-knit communities. Elinor is a compelling lead — guarded, bruised, but quietly determined — and watching her navigate both the investigation and her own history gives the book a lovely emotional depth.
The New Forest itself is beautifully rendered: damp earth, towering pines, the sense that every path might lead somewhere unexpected. It’s the sort of setting that shapes the story as much as any character, adding a haunting stillness to even the smallest moments.
Moody, immersive, and threaded with tension, this is a mystery that settles around you like fog — quiet at first, then impossible to shake. A wonderfully atmospheric read for anyone who loves their crime fiction with heart, shadows, and a strong sense of place.
With thanks to Linda Mather, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Elinor Saxby’s arrival is steeped in that fragile hope of starting over, though it’s clear the forest isn’t going to let her settle quietly. Her crooked little cottage, her isolation, the weight she’s trying so hard to outrun — it all creates this gentle tension that hums beneath the story. And when a woman is found dead in the pool of a luxury woodland spa, the case becomes painfully personal, pulling Elinor back into a past she’d rather keep buried.
What follows is a slow, atmospheric unraveling, full of shifting loyalties, old wounds, and the kind of secrets that thrive in close-knit communities. Elinor is a compelling lead — guarded, bruised, but quietly determined — and watching her navigate both the investigation and her own history gives the book a lovely emotional depth.
The New Forest itself is beautifully rendered: damp earth, towering pines, the sense that every path might lead somewhere unexpected. It’s the sort of setting that shapes the story as much as any character, adding a haunting stillness to even the smallest moments.
Moody, immersive, and threaded with tension, this is a mystery that settles around you like fog — quiet at first, then impossible to shake. A wonderfully atmospheric read for anyone who loves their crime fiction with heart, shadows, and a strong sense of place.
With thanks to Linda Mather, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
May 26, 2026
This police procedural set in the New Forest is the first of what I hope will be a new series.
DCI Elinor Saxby has just moved to her new home, and her new department. This is not a department of superstars, and some actively resent her being there. Then, before she even finishes moving into her house, the team gets called on a suspicious death. The death turns out to be murder and the victim turns out to be someone Elinor knows.
DC Nancy Li is still new to the job. Eager to make a name for herself, she dives into the investigation, but her desire to solve the mystery and find justice for the victims leads her to making some potentially bad and dangerous choices.
The chapters switch back and forth between these two POV characters, and it's interesting to see how they each interpret the same actions. The other characters are well-developed, and the introduction of the somewhat mysterious NCA agent really helps up the tension.
As Elinor and her team get to know each other, they begin peeling back the many levels of what has happened. Some of the information leads to the final resolution, some are helpful but not really key. As more deaths occur, and as more crimes and suspects arise, the team has to learn how to dig deeper and how to trust each other and the investigative process.
I really enjoyed this book and certainly hope to see more in the series in the future. The plot is complicated, but it is fun watching the team take small steps to figure out what really happened in the New Forest.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
DCI Elinor Saxby has just moved to her new home, and her new department. This is not a department of superstars, and some actively resent her being there. Then, before she even finishes moving into her house, the team gets called on a suspicious death. The death turns out to be murder and the victim turns out to be someone Elinor knows.
DC Nancy Li is still new to the job. Eager to make a name for herself, she dives into the investigation, but her desire to solve the mystery and find justice for the victims leads her to making some potentially bad and dangerous choices.
The chapters switch back and forth between these two POV characters, and it's interesting to see how they each interpret the same actions. The other characters are well-developed, and the introduction of the somewhat mysterious NCA agent really helps up the tension.
As Elinor and her team get to know each other, they begin peeling back the many levels of what has happened. Some of the information leads to the final resolution, some are helpful but not really key. As more deaths occur, and as more crimes and suspects arise, the team has to learn how to dig deeper and how to trust each other and the investigative process.
I really enjoyed this book and certainly hope to see more in the series in the future. The plot is complicated, but it is fun watching the team take small steps to figure out what really happened in the New Forest.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
May 24, 2026
As Detective Elinor Saxby takes up her new job in a small village, she’s really thrown into the deep end as her first case involves a victim she knows personally. Candice Beddowes, a counselor, was found dead in the pool of a local spa. Candice had been staying there with her sister-in-law and no one is quite sure how Candice ended up in the pool late in the evening. As Elinor and her team begin investigating, there is soon another death of someone tied to the same hotel where Candice had been staying. Candice has her hands full with mourning her friend, coming to grips with her new position, and trying to solve her first case.
I found the story to be very slow moving. There were quite a few chapters, especially early on, that dealt with “admin issues.” Long, drawn out conversations about who was working at the police station, who was on leave, who might be called back, who had retired, and so on. There also seemed to be some unanswered questions, such as why did the victim leave a voice mail with Elinor before her death? What was that about? It wasn’t mentioned, but the fact that Elinor was seeing Candice as a client was discussed many, many times. The resolution wasn’t very satisfying, either. Overall, this turned out to be an uninspiring mystery.
I received a copy of this book from Joffe Books.
I found the story to be very slow moving. There were quite a few chapters, especially early on, that dealt with “admin issues.” Long, drawn out conversations about who was working at the police station, who was on leave, who might be called back, who had retired, and so on. There also seemed to be some unanswered questions, such as why did the victim leave a voice mail with Elinor before her death? What was that about? It wasn’t mentioned, but the fact that Elinor was seeing Candice as a client was discussed many, many times. The resolution wasn’t very satisfying, either. Overall, this turned out to be an uninspiring mystery.
I received a copy of this book from Joffe Books.
May 14, 2026
Fresh Plot; Reads Easily;
This Reader skimmed the first page of “Death in The New Forest” by Linda Mather intending to spend a minute seeing how much I might enjoy the read. I emerged a long time later having become quickly and happily immersed with meeting DCI Elinor Saxby and getting to know her new team of detectives like they are going to be my own friends. I enjoyed the beauty and atmosphere of being in the New Forest to live and work, and became immersed in the details of a crime which is fresh in conception and “different” from your usual murder mystery. It was an effort to drag myself from the pages and finish this book later.
This is a very satisfying book to read. The excellent writing style and portrayal of personalities enable the reader to relate easily to the characters while focusing on the fast-advancing plot. The unique conception and development of this story lead the reader to the satisfactorily unexpected but not impossible-to-conceive conclusion. I always enjoy a plot where the twists are satisfactorily explained, and the ending leaves one thinking “The clues were all there, but well hidden.” Linda Mather deserves every one of five stars, and I thoroughly recommend reading this book even if you are not normally a fan of police procedurals.
This Reader skimmed the first page of “Death in The New Forest” by Linda Mather intending to spend a minute seeing how much I might enjoy the read. I emerged a long time later having become quickly and happily immersed with meeting DCI Elinor Saxby and getting to know her new team of detectives like they are going to be my own friends. I enjoyed the beauty and atmosphere of being in the New Forest to live and work, and became immersed in the details of a crime which is fresh in conception and “different” from your usual murder mystery. It was an effort to drag myself from the pages and finish this book later.
This is a very satisfying book to read. The excellent writing style and portrayal of personalities enable the reader to relate easily to the characters while focusing on the fast-advancing plot. The unique conception and development of this story lead the reader to the satisfactorily unexpected but not impossible-to-conceive conclusion. I always enjoy a plot where the twists are satisfactorily explained, and the ending leaves one thinking “The clues were all there, but well hidden.” Linda Mather deserves every one of five stars, and I thoroughly recommend reading this book even if you are not normally a fan of police procedurals.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a new series from this author and it's off to a great start. Elinor is a new DI in a rural location expecting a quieter life than what she had in the city. That immediately ends with the discovery of a woman's body in a local hotel and what is more intriguing is that she is someone known to Elinor in a professional capacity and who had texted her before she died.
I was immediately reeled in from the start with the death and the curious text. I liked how Elinor gradually gets to know the various characters in her new team and figures out how to deal with each. The star for me here though is Nancy, a young determined detective whose enthusiasm sees her often do things herself and gets her into difficult situations. It's hard not to like her and root for her. I look forward to seeing how her working relationship with Elinor progresses.
There are several twists throughout and I was never sure what was going to happen next which made things even more enjoyable. Bring on the next book.
I was immediately reeled in from the start with the death and the curious text. I liked how Elinor gradually gets to know the various characters in her new team and figures out how to deal with each. The star for me here though is Nancy, a young determined detective whose enthusiasm sees her often do things herself and gets her into difficult situations. It's hard not to like her and root for her. I look forward to seeing how her working relationship with Elinor progresses.
There are several twists throughout and I was never sure what was going to happen next which made things even more enjoyable. Bring on the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
You've just joined a new Force. Your first case is the murder of someone you know and your team doesn't trust you. What's not to love?
The first instalment of The New Forest Murders by Linda Mather is an exceptional police procedural. When DCI Elinor Saxby relocates and takes over a fractured team plagued by resentment and staff shortages, the tension is immediate.
The investigation into counsellor Candice’s death at a luxury hotel starts haphazardly, but the dynamic between the relatable characters, from the ambitious fast-track DC Nancy to the retirement-ready Greta, adds realism. Set against a stunning backdrop, the plot is a labyrinth of twists and turns that kept me reading into the wee small hours.
While the NCA's involvement adds an intriguing extra layer, the true heart of the story lies in seeing this mismatched crew slowly build trust. With a neatly tied-up ending, this is an excellent series starter for any crime fiction fan. I can't wait to see how the team develops in the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
The first instalment of The New Forest Murders by Linda Mather is an exceptional police procedural. When DCI Elinor Saxby relocates and takes over a fractured team plagued by resentment and staff shortages, the tension is immediate.
The investigation into counsellor Candice’s death at a luxury hotel starts haphazardly, but the dynamic between the relatable characters, from the ambitious fast-track DC Nancy to the retirement-ready Greta, adds realism. Set against a stunning backdrop, the plot is a labyrinth of twists and turns that kept me reading into the wee small hours.
While the NCA's involvement adds an intriguing extra layer, the true heart of the story lies in seeing this mismatched crew slowly build trust. With a neatly tied-up ending, this is an excellent series starter for any crime fiction fan. I can't wait to see how the team develops in the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
May 15, 2026
This is an excellent start to a new series by Linda Mather. Detective Elinor Saxby has moved south to start a new phase in her career and to try and move on from a disturbing case in her past. She has a team to lead that she doesn't know and some of whom resent the departure of the man she is replacing. But she's determined to start strongly and prove her worth.
However, things get complicated very quickly when a woman is found dead at a nearby luxury spa resort - a woman known to Elinor and who texted her the previous evening asking for help.
Elinor has to bring her team together, mentor an eager new detective, whose keenness leads to her blurring the lines between good procedure and questionable behaviour, and find her friend's killer.
As well as being an extremely well-written police procedural, Mather brings both her characters and the setting alive, immersing the reader completely into the story. I read this in only a couple of sittings and I'm keen to read #2.
With thanks to Joffe Books for an ARC in return for my honest review.
However, things get complicated very quickly when a woman is found dead at a nearby luxury spa resort - a woman known to Elinor and who texted her the previous evening asking for help.
Elinor has to bring her team together, mentor an eager new detective, whose keenness leads to her blurring the lines between good procedure and questionable behaviour, and find her friend's killer.
As well as being an extremely well-written police procedural, Mather brings both her characters and the setting alive, immersing the reader completely into the story. I read this in only a couple of sittings and I'm keen to read #2.
With thanks to Joffe Books for an ARC in return for my honest review.
May 17, 2026
Absolutely brilliant. This is one of my favourite types of genre. A police procedural wrapped around a mystery set in a wonderfully perfect location for murder and mischief. And Linda Mather sets the scene so very nicely indeed.
DCI Saxby hasn’t even unpacked yet. Barely a week since she’s moved into her cottage having transplanted from Birmingham for reasons that will become apparent to no one (yet) but the reader, not even properly unpacked and already called out to a murder. On top of that, she recognised the name of the victim, a trauma counsellor for members of the force she, herself, has been working with.
A new team, with old hands, severely jaded members and someone so new she likely squeaks when she moves, Elinor Saxby has her work cut out for her as it becomes more and more obvious that this murder is neither straightforward nor as it seems as the plot twists more than the roads leading through the misty forest itself.
Brilliant start to hopefully a long lasting series. I look forward to more DCI Saxby!
DCI Saxby hasn’t even unpacked yet. Barely a week since she’s moved into her cottage having transplanted from Birmingham for reasons that will become apparent to no one (yet) but the reader, not even properly unpacked and already called out to a murder. On top of that, she recognised the name of the victim, a trauma counsellor for members of the force she, herself, has been working with.
A new team, with old hands, severely jaded members and someone so new she likely squeaks when she moves, Elinor Saxby has her work cut out for her as it becomes more and more obvious that this murder is neither straightforward nor as it seems as the plot twists more than the roads leading through the misty forest itself.
Brilliant start to hopefully a long lasting series. I look forward to more DCI Saxby!
May 14, 2026
An intriguing crime thriller. A great start to the New Forest Murders series.
Detective Elinor Saxby leaves the big city for a new job in a smaller department in the
New Forest. She’s looking for respite after a traumatic event and hopes the new post will
give her that. Her first day however she realises that she has a battle on her hands to be
accepted by her new team. She is then called to a suspicious death at a swanky spa
resort. To her horror she finds that the deceased is her trauma councillor and
confidante, Candice. Elinor immediately suspects foul play and this is confirmed by
the pathologist.
Elinor is determined to find the killer to avenge her friends death but she needs to
develop her team .
A brilliant start to what I hope will be a great series. Very good character development.
Detective Elinor Saxby leaves the big city for a new job in a smaller department in the
New Forest. She’s looking for respite after a traumatic event and hopes the new post will
give her that. Her first day however she realises that she has a battle on her hands to be
accepted by her new team. She is then called to a suspicious death at a swanky spa
resort. To her horror she finds that the deceased is her trauma councillor and
confidante, Candice. Elinor immediately suspects foul play and this is confirmed by
the pathologist.
Elinor is determined to find the killer to avenge her friends death but she needs to
develop her team .
A brilliant start to what I hope will be a great series. Very good character development.
May 14, 2026
When DCI Elinor Saxby moved away from her old job in the West Midlands Police to start a new post in the New forest, she didn’t expect to land a murder investigation in her first week. She also didn’t expect that she would know the victim. She has to manage the investigation while getting used to her new team, which is depleted for various reasons. The team is also getting over the early, forced retirement of their old boss.
Whilst the author, Linda Mather, has written many crime novels, this is the first in a new series, and it’s a cracker. The plot is meaty and has enough twists and turns to keep the avid police procedural fan enthralled. The characters are well drawn, but there is much scope for more character development, and I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
Whilst the author, Linda Mather, has written many crime novels, this is the first in a new series, and it’s a cracker. The plot is meaty and has enough twists and turns to keep the avid police procedural fan enthralled. The characters are well drawn, but there is much scope for more character development, and I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
May 17, 2026
The first book in he new forest series.
Elinor has a new assignment and you can't help feel sorry for the cold welcome she receives. Moving to a new team can't be easy and it seems there's a lot more about her that will become clear as the series moves on. She seems fair and a team player despite being the boss.
Elinor's team is a mixed bunch. Some easier to get on with than others. I think Nancy does well and can imagine the series showing a lot more of her too as she's really new to the role.
The police procedural aspect of this takes a slow meander through two crimes that are intertwined. One obvious culprit but one less so. The one I guessed popped out at me midway through and I wasn't sure if I'd guessed correctly or if we were going to get another twist. Everything becomes clear as it wraps up with a bit of excitement to the end and an interesting arrest!
Elinor has a new assignment and you can't help feel sorry for the cold welcome she receives. Moving to a new team can't be easy and it seems there's a lot more about her that will become clear as the series moves on. She seems fair and a team player despite being the boss.
Elinor's team is a mixed bunch. Some easier to get on with than others. I think Nancy does well and can imagine the series showing a lot more of her too as she's really new to the role.
The police procedural aspect of this takes a slow meander through two crimes that are intertwined. One obvious culprit but one less so. The one I guessed popped out at me midway through and I wasn't sure if I'd guessed correctly or if we were going to get another twist. Everything becomes clear as it wraps up with a bit of excitement to the end and an interesting arrest!
May 14, 2026
Elinor is the new DCI. She has an unusual group on her team: a new woman just out of university, and several people who resent her. She is shocked when the call comes in reporting a murder, since she knows the victim—Candice was the counselor she saw when she had a very difficult case. Candice, who was a guest at an exclusive spa with another woman, drowned in the spa’s pool, but it’s clear that this was no accident. Then a worker at the spa is killed in a vehicle accident. Could this be related? There are questions not only about a missing passport and possible organized crime forgeries, and but also about Candice’s unconventional lifestyle. So many lies, but Elinor and her team must get to the truth before they can solve the case.
May 14, 2026
I barely put this book down.
From start to finish this book is absolutely gripping. It opens with a DCI who has moved from a city centre police force to a rural one and immediately has to pull together a team that contains some malcontents and a novice to solve a murder. Along the way she has to deal with several disruptions, including considerations of political interference, of money laundering and of people trafficking.
I'd not read any of this author's previous work, but I shall look forward to reading any further stories featuring some of the cast of characters she has created here.
The tension in this book is high throughout and the psychological effects on the players are precise in their detail.
This book is a joy to read, thoroughly recommended.
From start to finish this book is absolutely gripping. It opens with a DCI who has moved from a city centre police force to a rural one and immediately has to pull together a team that contains some malcontents and a novice to solve a murder. Along the way she has to deal with several disruptions, including considerations of political interference, of money laundering and of people trafficking.
I'd not read any of this author's previous work, but I shall look forward to reading any further stories featuring some of the cast of characters she has created here.
The tension in this book is high throughout and the psychological effects on the players are precise in their detail.
This book is a joy to read, thoroughly recommended.
May 26, 2026
This is a brand new author for me but given my love of thrillers and murder mysteries, I couldn't wait to dive into this new series - the New Forest Murder Mysteries.
Oh, I must also mention that I literally live just outside The New Forest and as soon as I spotted the title and the gorgeous landscape on the front cover, I was completely sold!
Obviously, I absolutely love the setting.
Having driven through the Forest in all weathers and seasons, during the day and in the dark, I can confirm that it really does feel like a batten land.
The fog rolls over the moorland often and this really does feel ominous and give you that creepy feeling.
So, this really sets a great atmosphere for a chilling read.
I admired our main character, Detective Elinor Saxby.
Having moved from a large city - Birmingham no less! - to find yourself within this quaint, but stark landscape really must have been quite the holy for her.
To then be plunged straight into a tricky case - one which she's actually closely linked to - must have really been tough for her.
Elinor was an intriguing character to explore and although we do see some backstory through this read, I just know that there will be much more to come through the rest of the series too.
This was really well written and plotted throughout and I was totally immersed from start to finish.
I can't wait to read more from this series and just know that I'm going to love every book.
Oh, I must also mention that I literally live just outside The New Forest and as soon as I spotted the title and the gorgeous landscape on the front cover, I was completely sold!
Obviously, I absolutely love the setting.
Having driven through the Forest in all weathers and seasons, during the day and in the dark, I can confirm that it really does feel like a batten land.
The fog rolls over the moorland often and this really does feel ominous and give you that creepy feeling.
So, this really sets a great atmosphere for a chilling read.
I admired our main character, Detective Elinor Saxby.
Having moved from a large city - Birmingham no less! - to find yourself within this quaint, but stark landscape really must have been quite the holy for her.
To then be plunged straight into a tricky case - one which she's actually closely linked to - must have really been tough for her.
Elinor was an intriguing character to explore and although we do see some backstory through this read, I just know that there will be much more to come through the rest of the series too.
This was really well written and plotted throughout and I was totally immersed from start to finish.
I can't wait to read more from this series and just know that I'm going to love every book.
May 14, 2026
This is the first volume in Linda Mather’s new series, the New Forest Murders, and was an interesting and fast paced crime mystery set in this delightful and fascinating region of England.
The story features Detective Chief Inspector Elinor Saxby, who has just moved to Lyndhurst from London and started a new job based in the Forest, and her efforts to acclimatise to both are interrupted by news of a mysterious death. The body turns out to be known to her…..
The plot is complex and brings in varied characters and themes.
An enjoyable story and I look forward to reading future episodes in the new series.
The story features Detective Chief Inspector Elinor Saxby, who has just moved to Lyndhurst from London and started a new job based in the Forest, and her efforts to acclimatise to both are interrupted by news of a mysterious death. The body turns out to be known to her…..
The plot is complex and brings in varied characters and themes.
An enjoyable story and I look forward to reading future episodes in the new series.
May 15, 2026
This was an absorbing read. We are taken on a journey through a murder investigation led by Detective Inspector Elinor Saxby, newly appointed to the New Forest CID from Birmingham. Not only does she have to lead the investigation but also to get to know her disparate team, some of whom are demoralised by previous events.
The story is well written and full of red herrings. Usually I'm pretty good at guessing the murderer, but this one had me foxed for quite a while.
I would read more books by this author and look forward to the next one in this new series.
Thanks to Joffe for providing the ARC.
The story is well written and full of red herrings. Usually I'm pretty good at guessing the murderer, but this one had me foxed for quite a while.
I would read more books by this author and look forward to the next one in this new series.
Thanks to Joffe for providing the ARC.
May 14, 2026
I enjoy a good police story, and this is definitely one of them. The plot felt realistic, with likeable characters, twists, and plenty of suspense throughout. I really hope this is the first book in a new series, because I’d love to read more and see how the main characters develop over time. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it certainly won’t be the last. I recommend it.
I received an advance review copy via NetGalley/Joffe Books and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
I received an advance review copy via NetGalley/Joffe Books and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
May 14, 2026
Gripping
Detective chief Inspector Elinor Saxby has just relocated from Birmingham to Lyndhurst in the New Forest and has barely moved into her cottage when she hears a body has been found. She is shocked to find out she knew the person who has died and she had received a call from that very person but had missed it. The death is deemed suspicious, and Elinor and her team, whom she hardly knows, must investigate and quickly. I find it is always nice to read a book set in my local area and I really enjoyed this one. I hope this is the beginning of a new series.
Detective chief Inspector Elinor Saxby has just relocated from Birmingham to Lyndhurst in the New Forest and has barely moved into her cottage when she hears a body has been found. She is shocked to find out she knew the person who has died and she had received a call from that very person but had missed it. The death is deemed suspicious, and Elinor and her team, whom she hardly knows, must investigate and quickly. I find it is always nice to read a book set in my local area and I really enjoyed this one. I hope this is the beginning of a new series.
May 14, 2026
A really good thriller / policerpcedural, which I really hope is the start of a series. A policewoman relocates to a quiet rural location , hoping to find some peace. Within 24 hours a death occurs at an upmarket spa- and it’s someone she knows.! Is there such a thing as coincidence? Then a worker at the spa is killed… . All the ingredients for a gripping read! I couldn’t put this book down as it is well written, with strong, believable characters and a plot line sufficiently convoluted to keep your brain engaged.
May 20, 2026
Recommend.
Death in the Forest by Linda Mather.
New forest murder mysteries book 1.
This was a really good read. I listened to this book on kindle unlimited. I wasn't sure how I felt about Elinor. She grew on me. I liked the writing style and the story. I read this book in two sittings. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I did like the setting. Southampton is my home town. This is a new author for me. I sort of got who the killer was. But I didn't get all of it. I'm looking forward to the next book. I do recommend this book.
Death in the Forest by Linda Mather.
New forest murder mysteries book 1.
This was a really good read. I listened to this book on kindle unlimited. I wasn't sure how I felt about Elinor. She grew on me. I liked the writing style and the story. I read this book in two sittings. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I did like the setting. Southampton is my home town. This is a new author for me. I sort of got who the killer was. But I didn't get all of it. I'm looking forward to the next book. I do recommend this book.
May 14, 2026
It’s time for a fresh start for Detective Elinor Saxby. She has a new job in a new location with a new team. Sometimes, you cannot run from your past. Her first case involves a victim she knows.
The descriptions of the characters and settings allowed me to picture each in my mind as I read the book. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the end. I look forward to the next book in what I hope in a long series.
The descriptions of the characters and settings allowed me to picture each in my mind as I read the book. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the end. I look forward to the next book in what I hope in a long series.
May 20, 2026
This is a great start to a new series. It captured me straight away.
Usually, the combination of a new author and getting to know the characters of a first book can take time to get used to
Not this book, it captured my interest from start to finish.
It's a well written, gripping storyline and plot set in ideal surroundings with strong, interesting characters with revelations and plenty of twists.
I'm looking forward to the next book in series.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.xx
Usually, the combination of a new author and getting to know the characters of a first book can take time to get used to
Not this book, it captured my interest from start to finish.
It's a well written, gripping storyline and plot set in ideal surroundings with strong, interesting characters with revelations and plenty of twists.
I'm looking forward to the next book in series.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.xx
May 14, 2026
Death in the New Forest. First week in her new job, DCI Saxby's hope that it will be an easy lead in are dashed when a body is found in a spa hotel. Thought to be suicide it soon became apparent that it was more sinister. The DCI and her new team have to sort out the truth from the lies while getting to know each other. A gripping novel which will keep you guessing until the end.
May 22, 2026
This is the kind of crime police procedural thriller that is right up my street, this is the first book in a new series and I loved getting to know the characters and the police team.
The story flowed so beautifully I was completely gripped and found it easy to read and hard to put down.
A really good twisty plot which was clever and kept me guessing.
I cannot wait for book 2 😀
The story flowed so beautifully I was completely gripped and found it easy to read and hard to put down.
A really good twisty plot which was clever and kept me guessing.
I cannot wait for book 2 😀
June 23, 2026
A refreshing new story
A good blend of typical themes with enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Lots of characters introduced that should be fleshed out as the series progresses.
A good blend of typical themes with enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Lots of characters introduced that should be fleshed out as the series progresses.
May 19, 2026
Brilliant!
I live in the Forest for the first 40 years of my life which is what attracted me to the book but found I couldn't put the crime novel down! I really enjoyed it.
I live in the Forest for the first 40 years of my life which is what attracted me to the book but found I couldn't put the crime novel down! I really enjoyed it.
June 13, 2026
Elinor is the new DCI at New Forest. A murder victim at a posh spa turns out to be her therapist.
Lots of twists and turns. I sure hope there's another one.
Lots of twists and turns. I sure hope there's another one.
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