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New Forest Murder Mysteries #2
Fear in the New Forest
Detective Elinor Saxby thinks she’s found her perfect rural retreat: a crooked little cottage amid the towering pines of the New Forest. But bad things still happen in beautiful places . . .
On a lonely stretch of shingle, where the Solent laps the forest’s edge, something terrible is about to wash ashore.
The bloated body of a young man. Several days dead.
A ragged wound gapes in his chest. Because this was no accident. He’s been shot at close range, then dumped.
City cop Elinor’s on the case — and utterly out of her depth.
The frosty coastguard tells Elinor the victim is a stranger. From out of town. But Elinor would swear she knows more than she’s saying . . .
Before long, a second body is discovered deep in the forest.
Same wound. Same cold-blooded MO. Same killer?
It’s up to Elinor to unravel the truth from the lies, before more victims die. But she’d better watch her back.
Because here in the New Forest, secrets run deeper — and darker — than the murky waters of the Solent itself.
Trusting the wrong person might just cost Elinor everything . . .
On a lonely stretch of shingle, where the Solent laps the forest’s edge, something terrible is about to wash ashore.
The bloated body of a young man. Several days dead.
A ragged wound gapes in his chest. Because this was no accident. He’s been shot at close range, then dumped.
City cop Elinor’s on the case — and utterly out of her depth.
The frosty coastguard tells Elinor the victim is a stranger. From out of town. But Elinor would swear she knows more than she’s saying . . .
Before long, a second body is discovered deep in the forest.
Same wound. Same cold-blooded MO. Same killer?
It’s up to Elinor to unravel the truth from the lies, before more victims die. But she’d better watch her back.
Because here in the New Forest, secrets run deeper — and darker — than the murky waters of the Solent itself.
Trusting the wrong person might just cost Elinor everything . . .
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 30, 2026
This is the second book featuring DCI Elinor Saxby. In the first book, she relocates from Birmingham to the New Forest, a National Park in Hampshire on England's southern coast.
She had assumed that her job would be straightforward in this much smaller place, but it bore no resemblance to what she had anticipated.
Some of her new co-workers miss their old DCI and don't really give Elinor a chance. One of her friends from Birmingham is visiting for the weekend.
While strolling along the beach with Abi's dog, they notice considerable police activity in the area.
The coast guard discover a man in the water bearing a severe gunshot wound. Before the coast guard can arrange transport to the mortuary, Elinor intervenes and instructs them to summon SOCO to the beach instead to not loose any evidence from the body.
Among the coast guard volunteers is Molly, who claims she has never encountered the man previously. However, Elinor suspects she may not be truthful.
Within days, another body surfaces with an identical large bullet wound. Evidence suggests both victims fell to an antique firearm. Though this second man has been identified, the question remains: are these murders linked?
Elinor recognizes that familiarity with the local community would have simplified her investigation. Meanwhile, her boss, Superintendent Courtney, pressures her to resolve the murders swiftly—concerned that lingering fear might drive away valuable tourism revenue.
I really enjoyed these books and plan to seek out the next installment in the series. You'll find a helpful glossary of British terms translated to American English at the end of the book.
A heartfelt thanks to Linda Mather, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing the ARC!
She had assumed that her job would be straightforward in this much smaller place, but it bore no resemblance to what she had anticipated.
Some of her new co-workers miss their old DCI and don't really give Elinor a chance. One of her friends from Birmingham is visiting for the weekend.
While strolling along the beach with Abi's dog, they notice considerable police activity in the area.
The coast guard discover a man in the water bearing a severe gunshot wound. Before the coast guard can arrange transport to the mortuary, Elinor intervenes and instructs them to summon SOCO to the beach instead to not loose any evidence from the body.
Among the coast guard volunteers is Molly, who claims she has never encountered the man previously. However, Elinor suspects she may not be truthful.
Within days, another body surfaces with an identical large bullet wound. Evidence suggests both victims fell to an antique firearm. Though this second man has been identified, the question remains: are these murders linked?
Elinor recognizes that familiarity with the local community would have simplified her investigation. Meanwhile, her boss, Superintendent Courtney, pressures her to resolve the murders swiftly—concerned that lingering fear might drive away valuable tourism revenue.
I really enjoyed these books and plan to seek out the next installment in the series. You'll find a helpful glossary of British terms translated to American English at the end of the book.
A heartfelt thanks to Linda Mather, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing the ARC!
August 27, 2026
This is the first book I have read by Linda Mather and I enjoyed it immensely. It was a little difficult getting to grips with the characters making a return appearance from a preceding book that I had not read but the main characters are very well developed with DCI Elinor Saxby under pressure from her boss Superintendent Courtney, who needs a rapid resolution to reassure the population being spooked by social media posts.
The character development is excellent with the young insecure DC Nancy Li trying to impress without fully understanding the importance of orders and correct procedure. Elinor is supported by the competent and reliable DS Les Cottrill.
This story is set in a context used by other authors of crime fiction; the principle characters have had a harmful work-based experience and complex social problems that they are working through while solving inordinately complex murder enquiries, and are hindered by interpersonal differences with some colleagues, or officers in other branches. There is a marked tendency for characters to breach protocol, or otherwise behave unprofessionally, and for witnesses to lie, forget, or fail to mention important bits of information which if presented at the correct time would have shortened the book by 30 chapters.
These interpersonal difficulties are related in characters who are reasonably well developed but sometimes exist merely as caricatures on which to build the operational threat to the main players. Elinor's new fiance is one such person who is irritatingly self-interested to the point that you wish he could become one of the victims.
However, it is well written, and the delayed information is not at all frustrating because it is plausibly introduced and developed in the subsequent twists. It is a good read and I recommend it.
The character development is excellent with the young insecure DC Nancy Li trying to impress without fully understanding the importance of orders and correct procedure. Elinor is supported by the competent and reliable DS Les Cottrill.
This story is set in a context used by other authors of crime fiction; the principle characters have had a harmful work-based experience and complex social problems that they are working through while solving inordinately complex murder enquiries, and are hindered by interpersonal differences with some colleagues, or officers in other branches. There is a marked tendency for characters to breach protocol, or otherwise behave unprofessionally, and for witnesses to lie, forget, or fail to mention important bits of information which if presented at the correct time would have shortened the book by 30 chapters.
These interpersonal difficulties are related in characters who are reasonably well developed but sometimes exist merely as caricatures on which to build the operational threat to the main players. Elinor's new fiance is one such person who is irritatingly self-interested to the point that you wish he could become one of the victims.
However, it is well written, and the delayed information is not at all frustrating because it is plausibly introduced and developed in the subsequent twists. It is a good read and I recommend it.
August 12, 2026
This is a brilliant second in the series but easily read as a stand-alone.
Detective Elina Saxby has not long moved from the busy Birmingham murder squad to what
she thought was going to be a quiet backwater job in the New Forest police. She has had a
very bad experience in the Midlands and has received counselling for her flashbacks. Her
idea to move to a less stressed role was supposed to be part of the healing process. The
stress and demons she is fighting are slowly revealed.
This thrilling case begins with the discovery of a partially decomposed body being
recovered by coastguard and lifeboat crews after being discovered floating near rocks in
the sea. Elinor takes one look at the stinking corpse and realises that this is murder and
that the victim has been shot at close range causing a horrendous chest injury.
The investigation reveals a web of deceit, greed and old grievances running in the close knit
forest community. As the story progresses the body count rises and the press are
screaming of a serial killer at large. Elinor and her team are under pressure from her boss
DS Courtney to solve the case and reassure a panicky public, and not least, to limit the
damage to the fragile tourist trade.
The character development is great with the over-keen young DC Nancy Li who’s
determined to impress and is at times maverick and hard to rein in. The stalwart detective
Sergeant Les Cottrill is the unsung backbone of the team and Elinor admires and relies on
his stolid advice and experience.
Elinor and her young constable Nancy Li, both have separate difficult decisions to make in
the clever and developing backstory. I am certainly looking forward to more from Linda
Mather and the New Forest murder squad
Detective Elina Saxby has not long moved from the busy Birmingham murder squad to what
she thought was going to be a quiet backwater job in the New Forest police. She has had a
very bad experience in the Midlands and has received counselling for her flashbacks. Her
idea to move to a less stressed role was supposed to be part of the healing process. The
stress and demons she is fighting are slowly revealed.
This thrilling case begins with the discovery of a partially decomposed body being
recovered by coastguard and lifeboat crews after being discovered floating near rocks in
the sea. Elinor takes one look at the stinking corpse and realises that this is murder and
that the victim has been shot at close range causing a horrendous chest injury.
The investigation reveals a web of deceit, greed and old grievances running in the close knit
forest community. As the story progresses the body count rises and the press are
screaming of a serial killer at large. Elinor and her team are under pressure from her boss
DS Courtney to solve the case and reassure a panicky public, and not least, to limit the
damage to the fragile tourist trade.
The character development is great with the over-keen young DC Nancy Li who’s
determined to impress and is at times maverick and hard to rein in. The stalwart detective
Sergeant Les Cottrill is the unsung backbone of the team and Elinor admires and relies on
his stolid advice and experience.
Elinor and her young constable Nancy Li, both have separate difficult decisions to make in
the clever and developing backstory. I am certainly looking forward to more from Linda
Mather and the New Forest murder squad
August 13, 2026
Fear in the New Forest is a wonderfully atmospheric crime novel that blends the quiet beauty of rural life with the creeping unease of something sinister lurking beneath the surface. Detective Elinor Saxby’s move to a crooked little cottage in the New Forest should have been a fresh start, but from the moment a body washes up on a lonely stretch of shingle, it’s clear her retreat is anything but peaceful.
I really enjoyed following Elinor as she tries to find her footing in a community that feels both close‑knit and quietly guarded. She’s competent but human, sharp yet out of her depth in ways that make her easy to root for. The dynamic with the frosty coastguard adds a nice layer of tension, and the discovery of a second body deep in the forest raises the stakes in a satisfying, “oh no, this is bigger than we thought” way.
The setting is the real star here. The towering pines, the murky Solent waters, the sense of isolation — it all creates a moody backdrop that makes every clue feel a little more ominous. Secrets cling to the landscape, and the author uses that beautifully to keep the mystery taut and engaging.
This is a solid, immersive rural crime thriller with a compelling protagonist and a setting that practically breathes on the page. Perfect for readers who love mysteries where the environment is as much a character as the people in it. I’ll happily follow Elinor Saxby into her next case.
With thanks to Linda Mather, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
I really enjoyed following Elinor as she tries to find her footing in a community that feels both close‑knit and quietly guarded. She’s competent but human, sharp yet out of her depth in ways that make her easy to root for. The dynamic with the frosty coastguard adds a nice layer of tension, and the discovery of a second body deep in the forest raises the stakes in a satisfying, “oh no, this is bigger than we thought” way.
The setting is the real star here. The towering pines, the murky Solent waters, the sense of isolation — it all creates a moody backdrop that makes every clue feel a little more ominous. Secrets cling to the landscape, and the author uses that beautifully to keep the mystery taut and engaging.
This is a solid, immersive rural crime thriller with a compelling protagonist and a setting that practically breathes on the page. Perfect for readers who love mysteries where the environment is as much a character as the people in it. I’ll happily follow Elinor Saxby into her next case.
With thanks to Linda Mather, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
August 14, 2026
A new case for recently relocated DCI Elinor Saxby and her small team at New Forest CID in West Hampshire and Dorset of older reliable DS Les Cottrill, experienced officers DS Liv Harvey and DC Greta Caulfield, DC Ben Barker and brand-new DC Nancy Li eager to impress. As usual her obstructive DI Nick Eastman is finding other things to occupy himself and her hopes of getting her old flame DI Craig Stapleton to come down from the Midlands and join her have faded fast. A man has been pulled from the sea at Stansore Point in Lepe with a large hole in his chest. Elinor surmises it came from a handgun at close range and is proved correct at the postmortem. Despite an initially unhelpful witness, they finally have an identification for the man but very soon another local man is found in private woodland in the same state. The similarities in how they died must surely mean the murders are linked but how, and why were both these men killed? With so many connected people clearly keeping secrets, will they discover the truth before anyone else gets hurt?
This is a great follow up to the first story now all the main characters have been introduced and the team are mostly starting to appreciate their new boss. It looks like Elinor has settled into her role but with a new love interest and maybe even a job offer on the cards how long will she stay put? This story has a good clever plot with plenty of suspicious characters and lots of twists to keep the reader engrossed right up till the end. I am looking forward to more in this series as Nancy also faces making an important decision.
This is a great follow up to the first story now all the main characters have been introduced and the team are mostly starting to appreciate their new boss. It looks like Elinor has settled into her role but with a new love interest and maybe even a job offer on the cards how long will she stay put? This story has a good clever plot with plenty of suspicious characters and lots of twists to keep the reader engrossed right up till the end. I am looking forward to more in this series as Nancy also faces making an important decision.
August 16, 2026
4 Stars from me
I am delighted to be closing the blog tour for Fear in the New Forest!
Linda Mather is a new author to me and I loved following this story and getting to know the characters. This is the second installment in the DCI Elinor Saxby series but I didn't feel I'd missed out by not reading the first book - needless to say if you are starting the series it makes sense to begin at the beginning. I've heard it's a very good place to start.
There's a delightful crispness to the descriptive elements of the book, be that when describing the brutal and devastating gunshot wound to the centre of the victim's chest, or when detailing the scenes with the cold wetness of the shoreline and then dark encompassing depth of the forest.
The relational elements of the character development is spot on too - there's clearly budding friendships, those with a deeper history, and a classic outsider attempting to become accepted. All of which help to define Elinor as a worthy opponent to the crime that she's here to solve.
Overall this is a solid crime thriller and I believe it has the makings of being a wonderful series to follow. There's depth, vulnerability and enough complexity to keep a reader wanting more.
My thanks to the author, Joffe Books and Zooloosbooktours for my place on this blog tour.
I am delighted to be closing the blog tour for Fear in the New Forest!
Linda Mather is a new author to me and I loved following this story and getting to know the characters. This is the second installment in the DCI Elinor Saxby series but I didn't feel I'd missed out by not reading the first book - needless to say if you are starting the series it makes sense to begin at the beginning. I've heard it's a very good place to start.
There's a delightful crispness to the descriptive elements of the book, be that when describing the brutal and devastating gunshot wound to the centre of the victim's chest, or when detailing the scenes with the cold wetness of the shoreline and then dark encompassing depth of the forest.
The relational elements of the character development is spot on too - there's clearly budding friendships, those with a deeper history, and a classic outsider attempting to become accepted. All of which help to define Elinor as a worthy opponent to the crime that she's here to solve.
Overall this is a solid crime thriller and I believe it has the makings of being a wonderful series to follow. There's depth, vulnerability and enough complexity to keep a reader wanting more.
My thanks to the author, Joffe Books and Zooloosbooktours for my place on this blog tour.
August 21, 2026
A body is found in the water with a gunshot to the chest and then another victim is discovered on a country estate with the same injury...
Fear in the New Forest is the 2nd book in the DCI Elinor Saxby series of police procedurals set in the New Forest. Elinor is still adapting to her new job and colleagues. She still feels like the odd one out and there is an air of mystery about her predecessor. DC Nancy Li is enthusiastic about her police career but worried about her personal life when her boyfriend proposes and wants them to go house hunting.
The new case brings the divided loyalties and underlying tension back to the surface again with Elinor struggling to lead her team. The suspects and witness characters drip-feed information throughout the book rather than being open from the start so this slows down the investigation and causes frustration for the police team.
I enjoyed the personal dynamics of Elinor and Nancy's lives. Elinor has moved away from her friends but their connection endures despite the distance. However I was annoyed that Nancy's new fiancé expected her to drop everything with little notice when she should be working (they are obviously mismatched, is he intimidated by her success?)
Far in the New forest is an entertaining police procedural with a strong lead female characters.
Fear in the New Forest is the 2nd book in the DCI Elinor Saxby series of police procedurals set in the New Forest. Elinor is still adapting to her new job and colleagues. She still feels like the odd one out and there is an air of mystery about her predecessor. DC Nancy Li is enthusiastic about her police career but worried about her personal life when her boyfriend proposes and wants them to go house hunting.
The new case brings the divided loyalties and underlying tension back to the surface again with Elinor struggling to lead her team. The suspects and witness characters drip-feed information throughout the book rather than being open from the start so this slows down the investigation and causes frustration for the police team.
I enjoyed the personal dynamics of Elinor and Nancy's lives. Elinor has moved away from her friends but their connection endures despite the distance. However I was annoyed that Nancy's new fiancé expected her to drop everything with little notice when she should be working (they are obviously mismatched, is he intimidated by her success?)
Far in the New forest is an entertaining police procedural with a strong lead female characters.
August 13, 2026
DI Elinor Saxby is back - and is still getting used to her new job and new life in the New Forest area. As she is relaxing with a former colleague from her former life, they come across coastguards bringing in a days dead body of a young man. Elinor quickly scans the body and sees all too clearly the massive gunshot wound in his chest. Taking charge, she brings in her team to investigate.
A second body soon appears and fears of a serial killer grip the local community. Elinor and her team race against the clock, with few resources to stop the killer (or killers) from striking again. Witnesses are reluctant to share details and Elinor is still feeling very much the new girl.
Meanwhile, Elinor and DS Nancy Lee are both grappling with developments in their personal lives and pondering how lives in the police force can co-exist with satisfying relationships. The crime certainly takes centre stage, but the characters' back stories really flesh out this story in an excellent way.
I finished this book in three days, and was very invested in both the characters and the plot.
This is book two in the series featuring Elinor Saxby and I highly recommend reading book one first (although it's not required), simply because both books are excellent!
A second body soon appears and fears of a serial killer grip the local community. Elinor and her team race against the clock, with few resources to stop the killer (or killers) from striking again. Witnesses are reluctant to share details and Elinor is still feeling very much the new girl.
Meanwhile, Elinor and DS Nancy Lee are both grappling with developments in their personal lives and pondering how lives in the police force can co-exist with satisfying relationships. The crime certainly takes centre stage, but the characters' back stories really flesh out this story in an excellent way.
I finished this book in three days, and was very invested in both the characters and the plot.
This is book two in the series featuring Elinor Saxby and I highly recommend reading book one first (although it's not required), simply because both books are excellent!
October 12, 2026
A grisly discovery at sea followed by a similar murder on land leads Elinor to suspect there might be a serial killer in the New Forest. She is still trying to find her footing in her new post but she is looked upon with derision by the loyal team who were close to her predecessor who let the post under clouded circumstances. The investigation leads her team to examine a diving team who have discovered a long sunken treasure trove. Wherever she turns, there seem to be connections but when a third attempted murder occurs, team member Nancy starts to colour outside of the lines as she is unable to detach her emotions.
Nancy is going through some challenging personal matters which is not helping her make good decisions but she continues to go off on her own. The team is finally able to make the connection of the evidence and then Nancy brings in the link that will allow her boss to put it all together. It is a good thing because there are some stroppy individuals who would have liked to see her fail.
This is a really solid story with lots of tension and suspense. Elinor and her team are a joy to read. Five purrs and two paws up.
Nancy is going through some challenging personal matters which is not helping her make good decisions but she continues to go off on her own. The team is finally able to make the connection of the evidence and then Nancy brings in the link that will allow her boss to put it all together. It is a good thing because there are some stroppy individuals who would have liked to see her fail.
This is a really solid story with lots of tension and suspense. Elinor and her team are a joy to read. Five purrs and two paws up.
August 22, 2026
Fear in the New Forest is the second book in this mystery series, the first being Death in the New Forest. This story continues with the same protagonist, Detective Elinor Saxby, following her move from Birmingham after a traumatic case that left her with insomnia and PTSD. Finding solace in the bleak, rural, tranquil New Forest, with its pine forests and open heathland, she found a secluded cottage near the village of Lyndhurst- a peaceful, perfect village, but bad things can still happen in beautiful places.
This unsettling, atmospheric story follows Elinor searching for a double murderer. Page by page, the story weaves with lies and deceit, can Detective Elinor Saxby trust anybody to help her find the killer?
Although this a standalone story, I would personally read the first story as you will learn the back story of Elinor Saxby.
I want to thank publisher Joffe Books (crime thriller, mystery, and suspense), author Linda Mather, and Zooloos Book Tours for providing a copy to read and review.
This unsettling, atmospheric story follows Elinor searching for a double murderer. Page by page, the story weaves with lies and deceit, can Detective Elinor Saxby trust anybody to help her find the killer?
Although this a standalone story, I would personally read the first story as you will learn the back story of Elinor Saxby.
I want to thank publisher Joffe Books (crime thriller, mystery, and suspense), author Linda Mather, and Zooloos Book Tours for providing a copy to read and review.
August 26, 2026
This can easily be read as a standalone story despite being part of a series.
Elinor is back with us and still settling in her role although she's good at what she does; there's some resistance from distant colleagues. Her small team is much better and much more supportive although they are still all getting used to each other.
Elinor and Nancy have a good dynamic although there are times where you can see they're still figuring out their working relationship.
The murders they're investigating are clearly connected but they're unsure how and why the crimes have happened. People are secretive/reluctant to talk and the police are eager to solve the crimes as quickly as they can. Some of the characters appear hostile and that mak s it tricky to see who has motive and who just doesn't want to get pulled into things.
It's another interesting police procedural with Elinor and we continue to learn more about her and how she sees her team. I've enjoyed continuing with the series and looks forward to seeing what happens next for Elinor....and Nancy.
Elinor is back with us and still settling in her role although she's good at what she does; there's some resistance from distant colleagues. Her small team is much better and much more supportive although they are still all getting used to each other.
Elinor and Nancy have a good dynamic although there are times where you can see they're still figuring out their working relationship.
The murders they're investigating are clearly connected but they're unsure how and why the crimes have happened. People are secretive/reluctant to talk and the police are eager to solve the crimes as quickly as they can. Some of the characters appear hostile and that mak s it tricky to see who has motive and who just doesn't want to get pulled into things.
It's another interesting police procedural with Elinor and we continue to learn more about her and how she sees her team. I've enjoyed continuing with the series and looks forward to seeing what happens next for Elinor....and Nancy.
August 12, 2026
The body of a man discovered with a ragged hole in his chest is brought ashore by the RNLI and coast guard. DCI Elinor Saxby immediately calls it as suspicious. When a second body is found, with an identical wound, she fears they may have a serial killer on their hands. Elinor and her understaffed team struggle to find any connection between the victims, or any suspects with motive to kill them both, but with the dogged determination of one member of her team, Detective Constable Nancy Lee, they will unravel the mystery.
This is book two of the New Forest Murder series, and it is just as good as the first. Linda Mathers is slowly introducing her readers to the backstories and personal lives of her characters while not allowing it to get in the way of the main storyline. If you haven’t read the first book of this series, this one works well as a standalone, though I recommend reading the first book and marking this as a series to follow.
This is book two of the New Forest Murder series, and it is just as good as the first. Linda Mathers is slowly introducing her readers to the backstories and personal lives of her characters while not allowing it to get in the way of the main storyline. If you haven’t read the first book of this series, this one works well as a standalone, though I recommend reading the first book and marking this as a series to follow.
August 18, 2026
This is the second of the New Forest Murder Mysteries and having read and enjoyed book one back in May, I was looking forward to continuing this series.
Back in book one, Death In The New Forest, we saw Detective Elinor Saxby moving from Birmingham to the quaint villages of the New Forest and coming to terms with the vast difference in pace and workload.
Now she's found the perfect little retreat to settle down in and start a fresh, but when a body washes ashore nearby and the close knit community clams up, Elinor knows that she's up against it once again.
This was another tricky case made more difficult by the fact that the coastguard and the local residents closed ranks.
This created such an atmosphere because I wasn't sure whether they were hiding things or just scared of what was happening.
It was great to see the team working well together and I tried to pick up on all the clues and make my own theories along the way - but this was such a twisty read too which kept taking me in different directions.
I love the setting - I think I mentioned in my last review that I live pretty close to the New Forest and so it was really easy to visualise the landscape and settings throughout.
I love the stark contrast between the quiet, calm beauty of the area with these crimes going on underneath.
Another great read and I'm looking forward to seeing how things progress next time.
Back in book one, Death In The New Forest, we saw Detective Elinor Saxby moving from Birmingham to the quaint villages of the New Forest and coming to terms with the vast difference in pace and workload.
Now she's found the perfect little retreat to settle down in and start a fresh, but when a body washes ashore nearby and the close knit community clams up, Elinor knows that she's up against it once again.
This was another tricky case made more difficult by the fact that the coastguard and the local residents closed ranks.
This created such an atmosphere because I wasn't sure whether they were hiding things or just scared of what was happening.
It was great to see the team working well together and I tried to pick up on all the clues and make my own theories along the way - but this was such a twisty read too which kept taking me in different directions.
I love the setting - I think I mentioned in my last review that I live pretty close to the New Forest and so it was really easy to visualise the landscape and settings throughout.
I love the stark contrast between the quiet, calm beauty of the area with these crimes going on underneath.
Another great read and I'm looking forward to seeing how things progress next time.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Will a complex new case unite DCI Elinor Saxby’s team, or will personal choices tear them apart?
The second instalment of Linda Mather's New Forest Murder Mysteries is a fantastic follow-up that delivers everything I hoped for.
This time, DCI Elinor Saxby and her team are on the trail of a potential serial killer. The investigation is layered and complex, but the real heart of the novel remains the brilliant character dynamics.
Watching this intrepid team slowly grow together and build trust is hugely satisfying, especially as Elinor tentatively earns her team’s respect. With DC Nancy facing major personal choices and Simon tempting Elinor toward the NCA, the stakes are high both professionally and personally. An exceptional, immersive read.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
The second instalment of Linda Mather's New Forest Murder Mysteries is a fantastic follow-up that delivers everything I hoped for.
This time, DCI Elinor Saxby and her team are on the trail of a potential serial killer. The investigation is layered and complex, but the real heart of the novel remains the brilliant character dynamics.
Watching this intrepid team slowly grow together and build trust is hugely satisfying, especially as Elinor tentatively earns her team’s respect. With DC Nancy facing major personal choices and Simon tempting Elinor toward the NCA, the stakes are high both professionally and personally. An exceptional, immersive read.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
August 12, 2026
This is the second in the new series featuring Detective Chief Inspector Elinor Saxby and is just as gripping and enjoyable as the first one.
Whilst it is part of a series it can be perfectly well read as a stand alone.
Elinor is still relatively new in her role, having recently moved from the Midlands to work in the delightful New Forest, but sadly bad things still happen in this beautiful place.
As one body then another is discovered, locals fear there could be a serial killer at work and Elinor has to try to solve the crimes quickly and has only limited resources in her small team available to do so.
Once again it is the interplay of the characters and the twists of the plot which really make this book so engrossing.
Highly recommended.
Whilst it is part of a series it can be perfectly well read as a stand alone.
Elinor is still relatively new in her role, having recently moved from the Midlands to work in the delightful New Forest, but sadly bad things still happen in this beautiful place.
As one body then another is discovered, locals fear there could be a serial killer at work and Elinor has to try to solve the crimes quickly and has only limited resources in her small team available to do so.
Once again it is the interplay of the characters and the twists of the plot which really make this book so engrossing.
Highly recommended.
August 22, 2026
A brilliant second book in this series by Linda Mather.
A dead man pulled from the sea with a gunshot wound. Another found in a forest on the lands of a private manor. What could these two possibly have in common?
It’s up to DCI Elinor Saxby and her team to uncover the truth when every possible witness seems to be unhelpful or obstructive.
Mostly settled in and with a team minus one wilful individual are coming together nicely, DCI Saxby digs in.
The team soon uncover misdirections, instructions and lies as the perpetrator tries to cover their tracks.
Meanwhile, closer to home, Elinor’s old flame returns and her worlds collide as her new beau visits and a job offer remains on the table.
I can’t wait for the next in this series.
A dead man pulled from the sea with a gunshot wound. Another found in a forest on the lands of a private manor. What could these two possibly have in common?
It’s up to DCI Elinor Saxby and her team to uncover the truth when every possible witness seems to be unhelpful or obstructive.
Mostly settled in and with a team minus one wilful individual are coming together nicely, DCI Saxby digs in.
The team soon uncover misdirections, instructions and lies as the perpetrator tries to cover their tracks.
Meanwhile, closer to home, Elinor’s old flame returns and her worlds collide as her new beau visits and a job offer remains on the table.
I can’t wait for the next in this series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Is there a serial killer on the loose in the New Forest? It's up to Elinor and her crew to uncover the truth.
This is a strong addition to this likeable series. As the second book, it certainly doesn't disappoint. Don't expect a fast-paced thriller. Instead you'll find a story that steadily builds suspense, leading to a satisfying conclusion. It's well written, with engaging character development that makes you care about the cast. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would happily recommend it to fans of this kind of series.
I received an advance review copy via NetGalley/Joffe Books and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
This is a strong addition to this likeable series. As the second book, it certainly doesn't disappoint. Don't expect a fast-paced thriller. Instead you'll find a story that steadily builds suspense, leading to a satisfying conclusion. It's well written, with engaging character development that makes you care about the cast. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would happily recommend it to fans of this kind of series.
I received an advance review copy via NetGalley/Joffe Books and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Fear in the New Forest is an enjoyable second book in the New Forest Murders series.
I really liked the atmospheric setting, with the beautiful New Forest meeting the coastline and the Solent, and enjoyed getting to know Elinor and her team a little better.
The investigation moves at a good pace, with plenty of threads, developments and possibilities to keep you wondering who is responsible.
I particularly liked the balance between the developing characters and the murder investigation.
A gripping and enjoyable read that left me wanting to know what comes next.
To read my full review, check out my blog MoMoBookDiary.
I really liked the atmospheric setting, with the beautiful New Forest meeting the coastline and the Solent, and enjoyed getting to know Elinor and her team a little better.
The investigation moves at a good pace, with plenty of threads, developments and possibilities to keep you wondering who is responsible.
I particularly liked the balance between the developing characters and the murder investigation.
A gripping and enjoyable read that left me wanting to know what comes next.
To read my full review, check out my blog MoMoBookDiary.
August 12, 2026
I have now read both books in this series and loved them .Linda Mather’s strength lies in character depiction- we feel like we know Elinor and are with her as she begins to properly integrate into life in the New Forest and her team begin to get behind her. And now Simon is trying to tempt her into the NCA- I hope she doesn’t go as I’d love more New Forest books! The plot is sufficiently convoluted to keep us guessing and I would definitely never have worked out who murdered the first victim nor why! The writing reminds me a bit of Joy Ellis in that we inhabit a totally believable world! More please
August 12, 2026
DCI Elinor Saxby is still getting used to her new life in the New Forest after heading a busy murder squad in Birmingham.
She and the rest of her team are shocked when the local lifeboat crew call them in after recovering a body from the water.
A man in his 30s has obviously met a grisly end if the giant bullet wound is anything to go by. While getting to grips with this case & interviewing the mans contacts , another young man is found with identical injuries in the forest. Her senior officers and the general public are worried theres a serial killer at work. Thoroughly engrossed by the twisted plot turns and getting to know the team had me up all night to finish this book.
She and the rest of her team are shocked when the local lifeboat crew call them in after recovering a body from the water.
A man in his 30s has obviously met a grisly end if the giant bullet wound is anything to go by. While getting to grips with this case & interviewing the mans contacts , another young man is found with identical injuries in the forest. Her senior officers and the general public are worried theres a serial killer at work. Thoroughly engrossed by the twisted plot turns and getting to know the team had me up all night to finish this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
DCI Elinor and her team are called to the scene when a dead man is found in the water. He was a member of a diving club, and when another member finds someone dead on his property, Elinor wonders if the deaths are connected. Nancy is talking to a local woman who knew the first victim, and learns more about his ex. She also is surprised by a proposal, and isn’t sure if it’s a good idea to marry George. Then there’s an attempted murder of someone connected to the case, and some information about illegal artifacts provides additional insight.
August 13, 2026
It Kept Me Guessing
DCI Elinor Saxby has relocated from Birmingham to the New Forest, in Hampshire. Based in Lyndhurst she is getting to know her new team and is enjoying the challenge. When a body is found at sea the team struggle to work out why, but then another body is found. There are plenty of suspects but finding the motive isn't easy and as usual Elinor is under pressure to find out what happened as quickly as possible. I really enjoyed this book, it kept me guessing all the way through.
DCI Elinor Saxby has relocated from Birmingham to the New Forest, in Hampshire. Based in Lyndhurst she is getting to know her new team and is enjoying the challenge. When a body is found at sea the team struggle to work out why, but then another body is found. There are plenty of suspects but finding the motive isn't easy and as usual Elinor is under pressure to find out what happened as quickly as possible. I really enjoyed this book, it kept me guessing all the way through.
August 15, 2026
Definitely recommend.
Fear in the New Forest by Linda Mather.
New forest murder mysteries book 2.
I really enjoyed this book. I love this series so far. I love the cover and blurb of this book. I love Elinor and her team. She is my favourite character. I love the writing style and the story. I love the setting. Especially as it's my hometown. Southampton. I listened to this book on kindle unlimited in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. I sort of got who it was. Then I thought I was wrong. very twisty. I do hope there is more to come.
Fear in the New Forest by Linda Mather.
New forest murder mysteries book 2.
I really enjoyed this book. I love this series so far. I love the cover and blurb of this book. I love Elinor and her team. She is my favourite character. I love the writing style and the story. I love the setting. Especially as it's my hometown. Southampton. I listened to this book on kindle unlimited in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. I sort of got who it was. Then I thought I was wrong. very twisty. I do hope there is more to come.
August 16, 2026
Book 2 in this series and I loved it!
The first was excellent and this one is just as good, you really get to understand and feel that fish out of water feel as Elinor tries to work amongst locals that don’t always react well to her. It was great to see her team working better together and with the twists and intrigue in the story i was hooked from start to finish.
The writing with its descriptive style makes it easy to see and feel (and smell) whats written on the page.
A great series and i cant wait for more
The first was excellent and this one is just as good, you really get to understand and feel that fish out of water feel as Elinor tries to work amongst locals that don’t always react well to her. It was great to see her team working better together and with the twists and intrigue in the story i was hooked from start to finish.
The writing with its descriptive style makes it easy to see and feel (and smell) whats written on the page.
A great series and i cant wait for more
August 17, 2026
Having read the first book in the series, I was looking forward to reading this book, it being the second one in the series. It didn't disappoint. Two murders that were brutal and puzzling. Not one but two love interests.
DI Elinor Saxby remains an interesting character as she finds her way into leading her team. Nancy, the detective constable interests with her enthusiasm and good intentions getting her into trouble.
This can easily be read as a standalone book. For me, it was a satisfying book to read with no boring streaks.
DI Elinor Saxby remains an interesting character as she finds her way into leading her team. Nancy, the detective constable interests with her enthusiasm and good intentions getting her into trouble.
This can easily be read as a standalone book. For me, it was a satisfying book to read with no boring streaks.
August 24, 2026
A great and thoroughly enjoyable book,from start to finish.
Although book 2 in the New Forest Murder Mysteries, it can be read as a standalone.
It's set in a stunning location with a well written gripping story and plot and strong Intresting characters.
There's revelations, twists and turns, leading to that final conclusive twist you didn't
expect.
It does keep you guessing but the red herrings and twists, keep sending you in the wrong direction.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
Although book 2 in the New Forest Murder Mysteries, it can be read as a standalone.
It's set in a stunning location with a well written gripping story and plot and strong Intresting characters.
There's revelations, twists and turns, leading to that final conclusive twist you didn't
expect.
It does keep you guessing but the red herrings and twists, keep sending you in the wrong direction.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
August 6, 2026
I want to begin this review by saying thank you to Zoe at ZooLoo Book Tours for having me on this tour.
I really enjoyed this crime novel, and as an avid crime reader, I'm a harsh critic.
I liked that this book wasn't too fast paced, and that the tension kept us as readers on the edges of our seats. It was so refreshing to read something that didn't throw plot twist after plot twist at every page, and instead, revealed things in quite an eerie and indirect manner. I found myself relieved by the end of this novel, feeling like all my questions had been answered clearly.
The development in characterisation was good, but ultimately, it was the growing suspense in the narrative and the desire to get to the bottom of things before they were revealed that kept me reading.
I really enjoyed this one, and I would recommend any crime lovers to pick this one up for a read.
I really enjoyed this crime novel, and as an avid crime reader, I'm a harsh critic.
I liked that this book wasn't too fast paced, and that the tension kept us as readers on the edges of our seats. It was so refreshing to read something that didn't throw plot twist after plot twist at every page, and instead, revealed things in quite an eerie and indirect manner. I found myself relieved by the end of this novel, feeling like all my questions had been answered clearly.
The development in characterisation was good, but ultimately, it was the growing suspense in the narrative and the desire to get to the bottom of things before they were revealed that kept me reading.
I really enjoyed this one, and I would recommend any crime lovers to pick this one up for a read.
August 12, 2026
This is the second book in a newer series. I enjoyed getting to know Elinor and her new team better. They are starting to gel as they solve some puzzling and disturbing crimes. I especially like the descriptions of New Forest. I could easily picture the settings. I look forward to the next book in the series as while not cliffhangers, there are some unresolved issues with some of the team members.
August 22, 2026
I was fortunate to be able to read this early as I am part of the Joffe ARC group.
This was a great follow up from the first book. I couldn't wait for it to come out and I wasn't disappointed. Having developed the principle characters in the first book, this book embellished them including allowing some of the main characters past friends being developed.
I certainly cant wait for the next instalment.
This was a great follow up from the first book. I couldn't wait for it to come out and I wasn't disappointed. Having developed the principle characters in the first book, this book embellished them including allowing some of the main characters past friends being developed.
I certainly cant wait for the next instalment.
August 12, 2026
A quieter pace of life is what Detective Elinor Saxby was hoping for when she moved from the MIdlands down to the New Forest , but before long she is faced with the task of solving two murders . Struggling to find any connection Elinor and her team are being pushed to their limits . Interesting characters and a solid plot which had the usual twists made this a very enjoyable read
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