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Aunt Dimity Mystery #21
Aunt Dimity and the Buried Treasure
While exploring the attic in her cottage near the small English village of Finch, Lori Shepherd makes an extraordinary discovery: a gleaming gold and garnet bracelet that had once belonged to Aunt Dimity. When Lori shows the garnet bracelet to Aunt Dimity, it awakens poignant memories of a doomed romance in Aunt Dimity's youth in London after the War. Regretfully, Aunt Dimity asks Lori to do what she could not: return the bracelet to her unsuccessful suitor--setting Lori off on an adventure through London--and through history--to put a piece of Aunt Dimity's past to rest.
In the meantime, a new family has moved to Finch. The villagers are thrilled because their new neighbors are avid metal detectorists. Metal detectors soon become all the rage in Finch and the villagers unearth a lot of rubbish (some of it quite embarrassing) before one of them stumbles upon a trinket that could hold the key to the origin of Aunt Dimity's bracelet.
Is the bracelet a priceless and protected national treasure? Was Aunt Dimity's lovesick suitor a common thief? If so, how will Lori break the news to Aunt Dimity? And what will she do with the bracelet?
As Lori searches for answers, she discovers an unexpected link between the buried treasure in the village and the treasure buried in Aunt Dimity's heart.
In the meantime, a new family has moved to Finch. The villagers are thrilled because their new neighbors are avid metal detectorists. Metal detectors soon become all the rage in Finch and the villagers unearth a lot of rubbish (some of it quite embarrassing) before one of them stumbles upon a trinket that could hold the key to the origin of Aunt Dimity's bracelet.
Is the bracelet a priceless and protected national treasure? Was Aunt Dimity's lovesick suitor a common thief? If so, how will Lori break the news to Aunt Dimity? And what will she do with the bracelet?
As Lori searches for answers, she discovers an unexpected link between the buried treasure in the village and the treasure buried in Aunt Dimity's heart.
231 pages, Hardcover
First published May 24, 2016
222 people are currently reading
1471 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Atherton
63 books1,184 followersNancy Atherton is not a white-haired Englishwoman with a softly wrinkled face, a wry smile, and wise gray eyes, nor does she live in a thatched cottage behind a babbling brook in a tranquil, rural corner of the Cotswolds.
She has never taken tea with a vicar (although she drank an Orange Squash with one once) and she doesn't plan to continue writing after her allotted time on earth (though such plans are, as well all know, subject to change without notice).
If you prefer to envision her as an Englishwoman, she urges you to cling to your illusions at all costs -- she treasures carefully nurtured illusions. She also urges you to read no further.
Because the truth is that Nancy Atherton is a dark-haired American with a generally unwrinkled face, a beaming smile, and hazel eyes, who lives in a plain house in Colorado Springs. She comes from a large, gregarious family (five brothers and two sisters!) and enjoys socializing as much as she enjoys solitude.
So if you are looking for her at a convention, don't look for a stately grande dame in a flowery dress. Look for a woman in jeans and sneakers who's bounding around like a hyperactive gerbil.
That'll be her. And she'd love to meet you.
Japanese: ナンシー アサートン
She has never taken tea with a vicar (although she drank an Orange Squash with one once) and she doesn't plan to continue writing after her allotted time on earth (though such plans are, as well all know, subject to change without notice).
If you prefer to envision her as an Englishwoman, she urges you to cling to your illusions at all costs -- she treasures carefully nurtured illusions. She also urges you to read no further.
Because the truth is that Nancy Atherton is a dark-haired American with a generally unwrinkled face, a beaming smile, and hazel eyes, who lives in a plain house in Colorado Springs. She comes from a large, gregarious family (five brothers and two sisters!) and enjoys socializing as much as she enjoys solitude.
So if you are looking for her at a convention, don't look for a stately grande dame in a flowery dress. Look for a woman in jeans and sneakers who's bounding around like a hyperactive gerbil.
That'll be her. And she'd love to meet you.
Japanese: ナンシー アサートン
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
June 10, 2019
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Nancy Atherton continues to entertain with this adorably clean and wholesome series. Prepare to immerse yourself in this cozy mystery that presents pieces of the past that cross paths with the present in the small English village of Finch. It begins with Lori's discovery of a gleaming gold and garnet bracelet in their attic that had belonged to Aunt Dimity. Aunt Dimity responded very emotionally when presented with the sight. She was insistent that Lori returns it to Badger, the man that had given it to her, or his descendants if not him. Lori quickly ascended to the request, hoping to put Aunt Dimity's past to rest regarding the jewelry piece.
In the meantime, a new family has moved to Finch. The villagers are thrilled because their new neighbors are avid metal detectorists. Metal detectors soon become all the rage in Finch and the villagers unearth a lot of rubbish (some of it quite embarrassing) before one of them stumbles upon a trinket that could hold the key to the origin of Aunt Dimity’s bracelet.
Each of the villagers is excited to try out the new fangled metal detector. Unfortunately, the finds they discover cause rifts between families, friends, and the past. Meantime, Lori searches for answers in another village altogether and meets new people along the way. She is sure to check in with Aunt Dimity, which is an enchanting and endearing form of communication.
Is the bracelet a priceless and protected national treasure? Was Aunt Dimity’s lovesick suitor a common thief? If so, how will Lori break the news to Aunt Dimity? And what will she do with the bracelet? As Lori searches for answers, she discovers an unexpected link between the buried treasure in the village and the treasure buried in Aunt Dimity’s heart.
I've read numerous books in this series and cannot ever remember having been disappointed. This is my first time listening to one audibly, but it was an interesting way to digest a new book. I appreciate the clean and wholesome deliverance, the ability for each book to stand on its own, and a H.E.A. created for each scenario. So, of course, I would recommend them to anyone interested in the genre of cozy mysteries.
Nancy Atherton continues to entertain with this adorably clean and wholesome series. Prepare to immerse yourself in this cozy mystery that presents pieces of the past that cross paths with the present in the small English village of Finch. It begins with Lori's discovery of a gleaming gold and garnet bracelet in their attic that had belonged to Aunt Dimity. Aunt Dimity responded very emotionally when presented with the sight. She was insistent that Lori returns it to Badger, the man that had given it to her, or his descendants if not him. Lori quickly ascended to the request, hoping to put Aunt Dimity's past to rest regarding the jewelry piece.
In the meantime, a new family has moved to Finch. The villagers are thrilled because their new neighbors are avid metal detectorists. Metal detectors soon become all the rage in Finch and the villagers unearth a lot of rubbish (some of it quite embarrassing) before one of them stumbles upon a trinket that could hold the key to the origin of Aunt Dimity’s bracelet.
Each of the villagers is excited to try out the new fangled metal detector. Unfortunately, the finds they discover cause rifts between families, friends, and the past. Meantime, Lori searches for answers in another village altogether and meets new people along the way. She is sure to check in with Aunt Dimity, which is an enchanting and endearing form of communication.
Is the bracelet a priceless and protected national treasure? Was Aunt Dimity’s lovesick suitor a common thief? If so, how will Lori break the news to Aunt Dimity? And what will she do with the bracelet? As Lori searches for answers, she discovers an unexpected link between the buried treasure in the village and the treasure buried in Aunt Dimity’s heart.
I've read numerous books in this series and cannot ever remember having been disappointed. This is my first time listening to one audibly, but it was an interesting way to digest a new book. I appreciate the clean and wholesome deliverance, the ability for each book to stand on its own, and a H.E.A. created for each scenario. So, of course, I would recommend them to anyone interested in the genre of cozy mysteries.
June 2, 2016
Aunt Dimity and the Buried Treasure by Nancy Atherton is a 2016 Viking Books publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lori is back with another charming Finch village mystery, but this one is just a little more sentimental for Aunt Dimity, and turns into a very interesting treasure hunt and adventure for Lori.
Lori is digging around in her attic when she makes a curious discovery of an old and very expensive bracelet, that definitely does not belong to her, which has her consulting Aunt Dimity. As it turns out, the piece of jewelry could be priceless, and was a gift to Aunt Dimity from a special friend, whose heart was broken when she did not return his romantic feelings, causing them to fall out of touch.
Although Aunt Dimity doesn’t usually make this sort of request, she asks Lori to find her long lost friend and return the bracelet to him as well as explain how sorry she is for breaking his heart all those years ago. This means Lori must travel to London, a task she is not looking forward to. However, once she begins her search, the hunt becomes exhilarating and she soon finds the history, facts, and methods surrounding archeology fascinating.
In the meantime, Finch has some new neighbors who happen to be detectorist, and has the whole village taking up the hobby, which happens to unearth a few very interesting items, one of which could taint Aunt Dimity’s memories of her long lost friend. Can Lori find her Aunt’s friend and find out the truth about how he came to own such an interesting piece of jewelry?
This series was my first introduction into the ‘cozy’ genre as we think of it today. I was gifted an ‘Aunt Dimity’ book for Christmas one year by a relative who meant well, but obviously didn’t know what direction my taste ran, which is more on the dark side. However, I felt obligated to read the book and discovered how delightful these characters are and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Thus began a new respect for this genre, which has become a favorite over the years. So, ‘Aunt Dimity’ holds a special place in my heart.
Having said that, I was thrilled to receive an ARC copy of this novel and eagerly lost myself in Lori’s adventure and enjoyed getting reacquainted with Finch village. This novel has all the hilarious screwball antics of the villagers, which had me laughing out loud once or twice, but I also found this story to be a little more on the poignant side this time around.
The mystery is also a little different, but was interesting. Any buried treasure found, by rights, belongs to the crown, so harboring such artifacts would be considered illegal, something that could complicate matters for Lori.
In the end, this story turned out to be a bittersweet tale, and a treasured installment in this series. I loved touching base with Lori and her busy family and, of course, learning more about Aunt Dimity’s past.
This is a solid addition to this long running series, but one new fans can enjoy as well as loyal ones.
Lori is back with another charming Finch village mystery, but this one is just a little more sentimental for Aunt Dimity, and turns into a very interesting treasure hunt and adventure for Lori.
Lori is digging around in her attic when she makes a curious discovery of an old and very expensive bracelet, that definitely does not belong to her, which has her consulting Aunt Dimity. As it turns out, the piece of jewelry could be priceless, and was a gift to Aunt Dimity from a special friend, whose heart was broken when she did not return his romantic feelings, causing them to fall out of touch.
Although Aunt Dimity doesn’t usually make this sort of request, she asks Lori to find her long lost friend and return the bracelet to him as well as explain how sorry she is for breaking his heart all those years ago. This means Lori must travel to London, a task she is not looking forward to. However, once she begins her search, the hunt becomes exhilarating and she soon finds the history, facts, and methods surrounding archeology fascinating.
In the meantime, Finch has some new neighbors who happen to be detectorist, and has the whole village taking up the hobby, which happens to unearth a few very interesting items, one of which could taint Aunt Dimity’s memories of her long lost friend. Can Lori find her Aunt’s friend and find out the truth about how he came to own such an interesting piece of jewelry?
This series was my first introduction into the ‘cozy’ genre as we think of it today. I was gifted an ‘Aunt Dimity’ book for Christmas one year by a relative who meant well, but obviously didn’t know what direction my taste ran, which is more on the dark side. However, I felt obligated to read the book and discovered how delightful these characters are and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Thus began a new respect for this genre, which has become a favorite over the years. So, ‘Aunt Dimity’ holds a special place in my heart.
Having said that, I was thrilled to receive an ARC copy of this novel and eagerly lost myself in Lori’s adventure and enjoyed getting reacquainted with Finch village. This novel has all the hilarious screwball antics of the villagers, which had me laughing out loud once or twice, but I also found this story to be a little more on the poignant side this time around.
The mystery is also a little different, but was interesting. Any buried treasure found, by rights, belongs to the crown, so harboring such artifacts would be considered illegal, something that could complicate matters for Lori.
In the end, this story turned out to be a bittersweet tale, and a treasured installment in this series. I loved touching base with Lori and her busy family and, of course, learning more about Aunt Dimity’s past.
This is a solid addition to this long running series, but one new fans can enjoy as well as loyal ones.
July 12, 2020
First Read: This is my first read of the Aunt Dimity Series. What a delightful book, and it touched my heart. I like books with a touch of the paranormal, and this had just the right amount. I love this series so far. Loved it--and now comes the wait and hunt for the next Aunt Dimity book! I would like to see more of Lori and Bill's relationship next time, too. I love their relationship. I don't think I've read any of these before or not, but I sure liked this one. Recommend. This whole book in ways can be spoilers, but I don't want to be one. Too fun :-)
Another light-hearted story centering around Lori Shepherd, her family, and the villagers in the small English village of Finch. The villagers are all excited when a new family moves in, as they all jostle each other to get the first glimpse of the new people, their furniture, or anything, really, to share and gossip about. The new neighbors prove to be nice people and the husband is soon sharing with the villagers the joy of his hobby, metal detecting. Soon everyone is trying their hand at it, leading to some fun and embarrassing finds in the village square. Meanwhile, Lori has discovered a beautiful arm band of gleaming gold and garnet, obviously very old and very valuable, in the attic of the house that once belonged to Aunt Dimity. When Dimity shares the story of how she came to own the jewelry, she convinces a reluctant Lori to try to return the item to the man who once gave it to her--a nearly impossible task.
These are gentle, cozy reads, made to be read while curled up in a comfortable chair with a nice cup of tea. They are actually stories about people and the things that have happened in their lives, and very much about personalities and choices. One might expect to see Miss Marple sitting in the corner, knitting away. A pleasurable way to spend an afternoon, and highly recommended.
Second Read: Another light-hearted story centering around Lori Shepherd, her family, and the villagers in the small English village of Finch. The villagers are all excited when a new family moves in, as they all jostle each other to get the first glimpse of the new people, their furniture, or anything, really, to share and gossip about. The new neighbors prove to be nice people and the husband is soon sharing with the villagers the joy of his hobby, metal detecting. Soon everyone is trying their hand at it, leading to some fun and embarrassing finds in the village square. Meanwhile, Lori has discovered a beautiful arm band of gleaming gold and garnet, obviously very old and very valuable, in the attic of the house that once belonged to Aunt Dimity. When Dimity shares the story of how she came to own the jewelry, she convinces a reluctant Lori to try to return the item to the man who once gave it to her--a nearly impossible task.
These are gentle, cozy reads, made to be read while curled up in a comfortable chair with a nice cup of tea. They are actually stories about people and the things that have happened in their lives, and very much about personalities and choices. One might expect to see Miss Marple sitting in the corner, knitting away. A pleasurable way to spend an afternoon, and highly recommended.
Another light-hearted story centering around Lori Shepherd, her family, and the villagers in the small English village of Finch. The villagers are all excited when a new family moves in, as they all jostle each other to get the first glimpse of the new people, their furniture, or anything, really, to share and gossip about. The new neighbors prove to be nice people and the husband is soon sharing with the villagers the joy of his hobby, metal detecting. Soon everyone is trying their hand at it, leading to some fun and embarrassing finds in the village square. Meanwhile, Lori has discovered a beautiful arm band of gleaming gold and garnet, obviously very old and very valuable, in the attic of the house that once belonged to Aunt Dimity. When Dimity shares the story of how she came to own the jewelry, she convinces a reluctant Lori to try to return the item to the man who once gave it to her--a nearly impossible task.
These are gentle, cozy reads, made to be read while curled up in a comfortable chair with a nice cup of tea. They are actually stories about people and the things that have happened in their lives, and very much about personalities and choices. One might expect to see Miss Marple sitting in the corner, knitting away. A pleasurable way to spend an afternoon, and highly recommended.
Second Read: Another light-hearted story centering around Lori Shepherd, her family, and the villagers in the small English village of Finch. The villagers are all excited when a new family moves in, as they all jostle each other to get the first glimpse of the new people, their furniture, or anything, really, to share and gossip about. The new neighbors prove to be nice people and the husband is soon sharing with the villagers the joy of his hobby, metal detecting. Soon everyone is trying their hand at it, leading to some fun and embarrassing finds in the village square. Meanwhile, Lori has discovered a beautiful arm band of gleaming gold and garnet, obviously very old and very valuable, in the attic of the house that once belonged to Aunt Dimity. When Dimity shares the story of how she came to own the jewelry, she convinces a reluctant Lori to try to return the item to the man who once gave it to her--a nearly impossible task.
These are gentle, cozy reads, made to be read while curled up in a comfortable chair with a nice cup of tea. They are actually stories about people and the things that have happened in their lives, and very much about personalities and choices. One might expect to see Miss Marple sitting in the corner, knitting away. A pleasurable way to spend an afternoon, and highly recommended.
July 5, 2020
This was the perfect book to end my reading slump. The story was a light, cozy mystery told in a breezy way and with no real danger involved. It was nice to welcome new residents to the Village of Finch. And it was lovely to meet new characters based in London. This book fit so well with what I needed right now. It distracted me from my current situation, and it helped me to forget my cares and just sink into a good story. Looking forward to the next instalment in the series!
August 20, 2017
Comfort reads for me, because I know everything will always work out. Also a good look at small village life in England.
June 26, 2024
The residents of Finch are beside themselves with excitement! It's moving in day for the newest neighbors and everyone is eager to spy on them know who they are. Sally Cook is in a tizzy because she heard the newcomers have boxes marked "museum" and she's certain museum means tea room and hers will go out of business. The handmaidens are worried about parking and everyone is worried what PEGGY will say when she finds out. They deputize Lori and her eight-month old daughter Bess to barge in and meet the new neighbors! Lori discovers retired schoolteachers Felicity and James Hobson are delightful and a good fit for village life. Felicity reveals the movers have broken their blender so Lori offers one of their extras in return for their hospitality. When searching for the blender in the attic, Lori comes across an exquisite garnet and gold bracelet! It can only have belonged to Dimity but who gave it to her and why did she never tell anyone about it? When questioned, Dimity becomes reticent and later reveals to Lori that it was a gift from a man she met after the war, a man she knew only as Badger. It seems Dimity broke his heart and she never saw him again and has always wanted to explain why she couldn't return his affections. She sets Lori on a seemingly impossible task to discover Badger's identity and whereabouts and deliver Dimity's apology. Nothing like a needle in a haystack to excite Lori, who would rather be home with her family. Leave it to Bill to sort of the details! With a guide, Lori navigates the post-war London neighborhood of Bloomsbury in a search for Badger. Will she find him before time runs out for the World War II generation? Meanwhile, back in Bloomsbury, the villagers are eager to take a turn with James Hobson's metal detector but he knows all too well the hazards of finding buried treasure and it seems like history is about to repeat itself and Finch will be torn in two. How can the chaos be stopped?
Trigger warning: A late subplot involves
This was a delightful book. It might be my new favorite. It is a good mix of mystery adventure and village life. The balance is just right for me. I listened to audio book while I baked and cleaned and it flew by. I was almost halfway done and didn't even realize it. I especially enjoyed the trips to Bloomsbury. I once interned at Bloomsbury Publishing which is in Soho Square next door and I spent a lot of time at the British Museum when I was there. (It's free all the time and warm and dry in winter!) The time spent in Finch felt familiar too since after all these books, it feels like home. I wouldn't want to live there but like Charles and Grant, I enjoy the theater of village life. The ending was a bit of pure fantasy fluff and I didn't agree with Lori's decision. I understand why she made that decision but I would have made a different decision in order to be in control of the situation before someone else was. The late minor subplot was unexpected and sad. The vicar at the time was probably a relic of the Victorian era and following ecclesiastical law, even if it was morally wrong. That's what clerics did in his day and Lillian's solution to the problem was funny and fabulous.
I actually like Lori in this book. At first I thought there was too much baby and I wanted to toss the book in the river. She's overcompensating for running around when the twins were babies. Bill is as well. He was a workaholic and missed out on a lot and now he's a doting and devoted dad of three ready to parent his own children while Lori goes off on an adventure. She hasn't been parted from Bess yet but managed to leave without a fuss, thankfully. Lori is sensible and aware that she may not be able to fulfill Dimity's task but it's nice of her to try. I find it INCREDIBLY hard to believe Lori fears getting lost in London. She's lived and worked in some of the biggest cities in the world. She's from Chicago where O'Hare airport is a small city all to itself much like Heathrow. Plus you can grab an A-Z guide at any newsagent or bookshop to navigate or hail a taxi and the licensed drivers will know exactly where to take you. I never got lost in London! She does her usual jumping to conclusions but it wasn't so far off the mark, actually and she was worried for Dimity. Dimity is dead. I think she can handle the news just fine but it was sweet of Lori to worry.
The villagers are so delightful. I especially like Sally and her pastries. I feel bad for her because all the other women are so catty and mean to her. She seems to have found happiness with Harry but uh-oh now there's trouble in paradise! I don't blame her for being angry. I would be too! I love how Lillian Bunting is the one who actually rules the village - with a velvet glove instead of Peggy's iron fist. Even Peggy defers to Lillian. Mr. Barlow is a dear man. He's such a sweetheart. The Handmaidens continue to be awful. I feel a little bad for Elspeth but they'll get over it. Dick Peacock in his paisley waistcoat cracked me up. I just love these people!
Felicity Hobson is delightful. She seems a little scatterbrained but very nice and eager to listen to gossip. She wants to wait to share her whole life story because they plan to stay in the village forever. James is very kind to share his hobby of metal detecting and to give the villagers the idea to create a museum. At first I thought he was getting their hopes up over nothing. We already established Finch is a nothing village with no great hoard of treasure but his idea is much nicer. The museum is very sweet! I really liked that. This couple is a nice addition to village life.
In Bloomsbury, Lori meets a lot of new people. Adam Rivington is the perfect guide. Not only is he native to the neighborhood, he's a history student hoping to become an archeologist. Adam is intelligent, kind and friendly but has poor taste in women. He's a regular at Carrie's Café, which replaced several cafes that replaced Dimity's Rose Café. Therefore, Adam knows Carrie, the owner, well. Carrie is a real character. She's sarcastic, funny and somehow omniscient when it comes to Adam's love life. Carrie is fiercely protective of her regular elderly customers. The last of the Rose Café crowd, survivors of the Battle of Britain, they are the best the nation has to offer. Is one of them Dimity's Badger? Do they know Badger? It's unfair to compare the men of their generation to today's youth. Different times, different circumstances. Sarah is a bit too much of a coincidence but she's fun and seems lovely.
We didn't try the inedible WWII eggless fruitcake but we do like applesauce cake with honey, raisins and nuts. Our short, furry honorary member gave his raisinless mini cupcake 4 paws up and begged for more.
Trigger warning: A late subplot involves
This was a delightful book. It might be my new favorite. It is a good mix of mystery adventure and village life. The balance is just right for me. I listened to audio book while I baked and cleaned and it flew by. I was almost halfway done and didn't even realize it. I especially enjoyed the trips to Bloomsbury. I once interned at Bloomsbury Publishing which is in Soho Square next door and I spent a lot of time at the British Museum when I was there. (It's free all the time and warm and dry in winter!) The time spent in Finch felt familiar too since after all these books, it feels like home. I wouldn't want to live there but like Charles and Grant, I enjoy the theater of village life. The ending was a bit of pure fantasy fluff and I didn't agree with Lori's decision. I understand why she made that decision but I would have made a different decision in order to be in control of the situation before someone else was. The late minor subplot was unexpected and sad. The vicar at the time was probably a relic of the Victorian era and following ecclesiastical law, even if it was morally wrong. That's what clerics did in his day and Lillian's solution to the problem was funny and fabulous.
I actually like Lori in this book. At first I thought there was too much baby and I wanted to toss the book in the river. She's overcompensating for running around when the twins were babies. Bill is as well. He was a workaholic and missed out on a lot and now he's a doting and devoted dad of three ready to parent his own children while Lori goes off on an adventure. She hasn't been parted from Bess yet but managed to leave without a fuss, thankfully. Lori is sensible and aware that she may not be able to fulfill Dimity's task but it's nice of her to try. I find it INCREDIBLY hard to believe Lori fears getting lost in London. She's lived and worked in some of the biggest cities in the world. She's from Chicago where O'Hare airport is a small city all to itself much like Heathrow. Plus you can grab an A-Z guide at any newsagent or bookshop to navigate or hail a taxi and the licensed drivers will know exactly where to take you. I never got lost in London! She does her usual jumping to conclusions but it wasn't so far off the mark, actually and she was worried for Dimity. Dimity is dead. I think she can handle the news just fine but it was sweet of Lori to worry.
The villagers are so delightful. I especially like Sally and her pastries. I feel bad for her because all the other women are so catty and mean to her. She seems to have found happiness with Harry but uh-oh now there's trouble in paradise! I don't blame her for being angry. I would be too! I love how Lillian Bunting is the one who actually rules the village - with a velvet glove instead of Peggy's iron fist. Even Peggy defers to Lillian. Mr. Barlow is a dear man. He's such a sweetheart. The Handmaidens continue to be awful. I feel a little bad for Elspeth but they'll get over it. Dick Peacock in his paisley waistcoat cracked me up. I just love these people!
Felicity Hobson is delightful. She seems a little scatterbrained but very nice and eager to listen to gossip. She wants to wait to share her whole life story because they plan to stay in the village forever. James is very kind to share his hobby of metal detecting and to give the villagers the idea to create a museum. At first I thought he was getting their hopes up over nothing. We already established Finch is a nothing village with no great hoard of treasure but his idea is much nicer. The museum is very sweet! I really liked that. This couple is a nice addition to village life.
In Bloomsbury, Lori meets a lot of new people. Adam Rivington is the perfect guide. Not only is he native to the neighborhood, he's a history student hoping to become an archeologist. Adam is intelligent, kind and friendly but has poor taste in women. He's a regular at Carrie's Café, which replaced several cafes that replaced Dimity's Rose Café. Therefore, Adam knows Carrie, the owner, well. Carrie is a real character. She's sarcastic, funny and somehow omniscient when it comes to Adam's love life. Carrie is fiercely protective of her regular elderly customers. The last of the Rose Café crowd, survivors of the Battle of Britain, they are the best the nation has to offer. Is one of them Dimity's Badger? Do they know Badger? It's unfair to compare the men of their generation to today's youth. Different times, different circumstances. Sarah is a bit too much of a coincidence but she's fun and seems lovely.
We didn't try the inedible WWII eggless fruitcake but we do like applesauce cake with honey, raisins and nuts. Our short, furry honorary member gave his raisinless mini cupcake 4 paws up and begged for more.
Currently reading
October 2, 2016DNF. I loved so much about this book in its early pages. The writing is lovely, the narrator is funny, the English village folk are a delight. But alas, Aunt Dimity is not for me, solely based on the device of ... I'm not sure if I'm allowed to say. But I will say it, after I say "possible spoiler alert ahead." I'm not exactly sure if this is a spoiler or not, but I do want to be careful, so you've been warned.
It appears that there is a magic journal, in which the ghost of Aunt Dimity communicates with Lori, the book's narrator. Lori asks the journal a question and the journal replies. I'm assuming this happens in every Aunt Dimity book.
This may not be a problem for you. If it's not, and if you like cozy English village fiction/mysteries, then by all means pick up this book and give it a try! Lots to love here. But I personally can't get past that device, and so, much to my sorrow, had to put the book down.
It appears that there is a magic journal, in which the ghost of Aunt Dimity communicates with Lori, the book's narrator. Lori asks the journal a question and the journal replies. I'm assuming this happens in every Aunt Dimity book.
This may not be a problem for you. If it's not, and if you like cozy English village fiction/mysteries, then by all means pick up this book and give it a try! Lots to love here. But I personally can't get past that device, and so, much to my sorrow, had to put the book down.
February 27, 2018
Im 21. Band der Reihe von Tante Dimity ziehen zwei neue Bewohner nach Finch. Als dann auch noch geheimnisvolle Kisten aus dem Umzugswagen ins Haus transportiert werden, ist die Aufregung perfekt.
Außerdem findet Lori in einem Spalt auf ihrem Dachboden einen alten Armreif. Als sie Tante Dimity danach befragt, beginnt eine Reise in die Vergangenheit von Dimity und das London der Nachkriegszeit.
Wie immer versetzt mich der Schreibstil von Nancy Atherton sofort mitten in die Geschichte und ich möchte mich direkt in das nächste Flugzeug nach England setzen. Da das nicht geht, kuschel ich mich mit einer Decke und einem heißen Tee auf die Couch und genieße dieses wunderbare Wohlfühlbuch.
Einen Punkt Abzug gibt es weil Lori mir in diesem Band etwas zu kurz kommt und alles etwas zu glatt und schnell von anderen für sie organisiert wird, so dass sie selbst wie weiche Butter durch die Story fließt.
Außerdem findet Lori in einem Spalt auf ihrem Dachboden einen alten Armreif. Als sie Tante Dimity danach befragt, beginnt eine Reise in die Vergangenheit von Dimity und das London der Nachkriegszeit.
Wie immer versetzt mich der Schreibstil von Nancy Atherton sofort mitten in die Geschichte und ich möchte mich direkt in das nächste Flugzeug nach England setzen. Da das nicht geht, kuschel ich mich mit einer Decke und einem heißen Tee auf die Couch und genieße dieses wunderbare Wohlfühlbuch.
Einen Punkt Abzug gibt es weil Lori mir in diesem Band etwas zu kurz kommt und alles etwas zu glatt und schnell von anderen für sie organisiert wird, so dass sie selbst wie weiche Butter durch die Story fließt.
February 20, 2019
SPOILERS ...
I enjoyed this more than I expected to. I listened to it, and Christina Moore's reading was very pleasant.
I have a beef with the ending... The decision not to dig up the Anglo-Saxon hoard kind of annoyed me. The whole, "oh, leave it where it belongs" theme in some literature feels so--I don't know, self righteous and fake. Furthermore, with the Anglo-Saxon student Adam playing such a crucial role in the story, I felt it would be an ideal resolution for him to excavate the site, giving Badger's father credit and launching his own career. It just makes so much more sense ...
For some reason, I also can't help but mention that it annoyed me how every time Lori mentioned Dimity's handwriting, she had to say, "royal blue ink." Not once could she simply say, "blue ink." I may be a little petty. ;)
All in all, entertaining and charming. I will be reading more in the series.
I enjoyed this more than I expected to. I listened to it, and Christina Moore's reading was very pleasant.
I have a beef with the ending... The decision not to dig up the Anglo-Saxon hoard kind of annoyed me. The whole, "oh, leave it where it belongs" theme in some literature feels so--I don't know, self righteous and fake. Furthermore, with the Anglo-Saxon student Adam playing such a crucial role in the story, I felt it would be an ideal resolution for him to excavate the site, giving Badger's father credit and launching his own career. It just makes so much more sense ...
For some reason, I also can't help but mention that it annoyed me how every time Lori mentioned Dimity's handwriting, she had to say, "royal blue ink." Not once could she simply say, "blue ink." I may be a little petty. ;)
All in all, entertaining and charming. I will be reading more in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2024
Very cute. Takes place in Finch with the loveable cast of town characters.
June 30, 2019
3 overall, sweet story
April 22, 2019
Schade, die Geschichte war viel zu schnell beendet. Aber ich konnte nicht aufhören zu lesen. Es war, wie es oben in der Überschrift steht, ein Wohlfühlkrimi mit Lori Shepherd.
Nancy Atherton ist es wieder einmal gelungen, eine rundherum schöne Geschichte um Lori Shepherd, Tante Dimity, ihre Familie und die Bewohner von Finch zu erzählen. Ich hatte beim Lesen dieser Geschichte ähnliche Empfindungen wie beim Lesen der ersten Bände dieser Reihe. Und ich wusste wieder sehr schnell, warum ich diese Reihe so liebe. Nichts wiederholt sich, nichts wirkt aufgesetzt, nichts ist langweilig oder abgegriffen.
Es gab Teile dieser Reihe, in denen es der Autorin, meines Erachtens, schwerer fiel, eine in sich runde und vom Plot her "spannende" Geschichte zu schreiben. Hier ist es wieder einmal sehr gelungen. Hier genoss ich die Geschichte und war sehr froh zu sehen, dass die Autorin scheinbar nichts von ihren anfänglichen Gedanken zu dieser Serie aufgegeben hat. Sie versucht nichts zu verändern und auch sich und ihren Schreibstil nicht neu zu erfinden. Alles blieb beim Alten - in guter alter Tante Dimity Manier.
Nichts ist für mich trauriger, als im Laufe einer Reihe oder Geschichte erkennen zu müssen, dass der Autor seinen Weg verlassen hat und glaubt, zu neuen literarischen Ufern aufgebrechen zu müssen.
Nancy Atherton ist sich treu geblieben und dies spürt man in Band 21 wieder sehr genau.
Wie schön, dass ich bereits Band 22 im Regal stehen habe.
Nancy Atherton ist es wieder einmal gelungen, eine rundherum schöne Geschichte um Lori Shepherd, Tante Dimity, ihre Familie und die Bewohner von Finch zu erzählen. Ich hatte beim Lesen dieser Geschichte ähnliche Empfindungen wie beim Lesen der ersten Bände dieser Reihe. Und ich wusste wieder sehr schnell, warum ich diese Reihe so liebe. Nichts wiederholt sich, nichts wirkt aufgesetzt, nichts ist langweilig oder abgegriffen.
Es gab Teile dieser Reihe, in denen es der Autorin, meines Erachtens, schwerer fiel, eine in sich runde und vom Plot her "spannende" Geschichte zu schreiben. Hier ist es wieder einmal sehr gelungen. Hier genoss ich die Geschichte und war sehr froh zu sehen, dass die Autorin scheinbar nichts von ihren anfänglichen Gedanken zu dieser Serie aufgegeben hat. Sie versucht nichts zu verändern und auch sich und ihren Schreibstil nicht neu zu erfinden. Alles blieb beim Alten - in guter alter Tante Dimity Manier.
Nichts ist für mich trauriger, als im Laufe einer Reihe oder Geschichte erkennen zu müssen, dass der Autor seinen Weg verlassen hat und glaubt, zu neuen literarischen Ufern aufgebrechen zu müssen.
Nancy Atherton ist sich treu geblieben und dies spürt man in Band 21 wieder sehr genau.
Wie schön, dass ich bereits Band 22 im Regal stehen habe.
July 26, 2016
Lori and Bill are the proud parents of an almost eight month old daughter and nine year old twin boys. They live in the delightful small town of Finch in rural England. The funny, lovable and wacky residents of Finch pride themselves on their friendships and the depth of their knowledge about each other. When a retired husband and wife move in, almost the entire village is on hand to discreetly check the couple out as their moving van unloads. When several boxes are unloaded with Museum marked on them, the village grapevine is up and running. Lori and her daughter are pressed into immediate duty to find out what those boxes mean. Having learned that the newcomers are both retired teachers and that the husband is an avid user of metal detectors, Lori persuades him to give the village a demonstration. With everyone in the village taking turns to use the equipment, secrets and treasures are found. Lori is also investigating a close held family secret of her Aunt Dimity's. This is a delightful series that will enchant you with the characters and all their human faults and take you on a mystery adventure that will keep you turning the page. This is the twenty-first book in the series and it is just as entertaining and refreshing as every other book is. The characters continue to grow and expand, while the mysteries just get better and better.
October 7, 2016
Audio.
I only gave this a two b/c I learned some interesting facts about history in this. I did finish it but only b/c I had nothing else in the car
A)there is no mystery involved - not even a cosy one. It may appeal to people who like Alexander McCall Smith where it's more about village life/personalities ala #1 Ladies Detective Agency which are also not mysteries.
b)the back of the audio says this narrator has been praised for "giving voice to every emotion". I'm not sure which book that was but it wasn't this one. Her English accents were ok but 80% of the story is as an American with a super flat, monotone delivery.
c)I was super distracted trying to figure out ages in this book b/c it seemed weird that Lori's mom was in WW2.
d)the ending of the mystery of the armlet really irritated me but I am a passionate supporter of archeology
Not sure if I'm willing to give another book in this series a try to see if it really is a mystery
I only gave this a two b/c I learned some interesting facts about history in this. I did finish it but only b/c I had nothing else in the car
A)there is no mystery involved - not even a cosy one. It may appeal to people who like Alexander McCall Smith where it's more about village life/personalities ala #1 Ladies Detective Agency which are also not mysteries.
b)the back of the audio says this narrator has been praised for "giving voice to every emotion". I'm not sure which book that was but it wasn't this one. Her English accents were ok but 80% of the story is as an American with a super flat, monotone delivery.
c)I was super distracted trying to figure out ages in this book b/c it seemed weird that Lori's mom was in WW2.
d)the ending of the mystery of the armlet really irritated me but I am a passionate supporter of archeology
Not sure if I'm willing to give another book in this series a try to see if it really is a mystery
June 17, 2016
These books are such a delight to read! They're very lighthearted and relaxing, as well as being thoroughly enjoyable. I love following the characters, especially Lori's growing family, and am always amazed at the number of adventures they have in the tiny village of Finch in the Cotswolds. :) The latest excitement is caused by two new residents, who introduce the hobby of metal detecting to the ever curious and snoopy villagers. This leads Lori to discover in her attic an antique bracelet, which turns out to actually be an Anglo-Saxon armlet. In the usual convoluted by romantic way, the treasure involves the ever-present spirit of Aunt Dimity, and Lori becomes involved in a search for an old love. As always, total entertainment and enjoyable reading!
August 20, 2016
3.5 stars...Sometimes the characters in a long running series get a little boring, and was true for me of Lori Shepherd, the luckiest girl ever. She has the perfect husband home and kids, and was getting a bit smug about it. I almost didn't read this one because I was getting tired of reading how wonderful she is. Am very glad I did, as this one was very enjoyable. This series typifies "cozy mystery" in every way, with a little twist of the supernatural for fun and plot points. Atherton also makes use of the WW II theme (isn't everyone these days?), but in a very non obtrusive and interesting way. New characters are introduced, and Ihope we see more of them in future books, as I am now back on the Aunt Dimity bandwagon.
December 20, 2016
This is another good entry in the Aunt Dimity series. Although mystery purists will probably say there isn't enough mystery and/or adventure, this series is very good for its gentle and lovable characters, great sense of place, and good all-around plots. It is still one of my favorite series.
May 17, 2016
Adorable book! Loved how the plot got more detailed as you read- you can't help but love Lori and her adventures with aunt Dimity! Great summer read
July 13, 2016
I never fail to enjoy my visits to Finch and Lori's adventures.
October 29, 2016
Another great Aunt Dimity adventure.
June 17, 2018
Im mittlerweile 21. Band der Tante Dimity Reihe geht es nicht sehr spektakulär her. In Finch sind gerade neue Nachbarn eingezogen. Deren Mixer ist bei Umzug kaputt gegeangen und daher begibt sich Lori auf ihren Dachboden um einen ihrer überflüssigen Mixer für die neuen Nachbarn zu holen.
Dabei fällt ihr ein Armreif auf, der in eine Ritze gefallen war.
Als sie Tante Dimity von ihrem Fund berichtet, ist diese ganz durcheinander. es stellt sich heraus, dass die Armspange ihr von einem Freund kurz nach dem Krieg geschenkt wurde, den sie dann nie wieder gesehen hat. Ihr Wunsch ist es, dass Lori diesen Mann ausfindig macht und ihn erklärt, was damals schief gelaufen ist.
Leider kennt Dimity den Namen des Mannes nicht.
So macht sich Lori auf nach London, um herauszufinden ob er noch lebt und wer er denn war.
Wie immer ist auch dieser Band herzenserwärmend geschrieben. Die neuen Nachbarn sind sehr nett und er hat zudem ein interessantes Hobby, das Sondengehen. Bald ist ganz Finch auf den Beinen um auf dem Dorfanger nach verschwundenen Gegenständen zu suchen.
Da bleibt es natürlich nicht aus, dass so manche Missstimmung entsteht, die aber allesamt wieder ausgeräumt werden können.
Manch einer mag sagen, dass dieses Buch kein Krimi ist, da ja kein Verbrechen geschieht. Mich stört das nicht, ist doch durchaus ein Geheimnis zu lüften und zusammen mit Lori erkunden wir London und erfahren ein wenig aus der Nachkriegszeit. Vielleicht ist es kein Crime, aber sicher ein Mystery.
Ich habe mich wieder sehr wohl mit diesem Band aus der Reihe gefühlt und freue mich schon auf den nächsten Band.
Dabei fällt ihr ein Armreif auf, der in eine Ritze gefallen war.
Als sie Tante Dimity von ihrem Fund berichtet, ist diese ganz durcheinander. es stellt sich heraus, dass die Armspange ihr von einem Freund kurz nach dem Krieg geschenkt wurde, den sie dann nie wieder gesehen hat. Ihr Wunsch ist es, dass Lori diesen Mann ausfindig macht und ihn erklärt, was damals schief gelaufen ist.
Leider kennt Dimity den Namen des Mannes nicht.
So macht sich Lori auf nach London, um herauszufinden ob er noch lebt und wer er denn war.
Wie immer ist auch dieser Band herzenserwärmend geschrieben. Die neuen Nachbarn sind sehr nett und er hat zudem ein interessantes Hobby, das Sondengehen. Bald ist ganz Finch auf den Beinen um auf dem Dorfanger nach verschwundenen Gegenständen zu suchen.
Da bleibt es natürlich nicht aus, dass so manche Missstimmung entsteht, die aber allesamt wieder ausgeräumt werden können.
Manch einer mag sagen, dass dieses Buch kein Krimi ist, da ja kein Verbrechen geschieht. Mich stört das nicht, ist doch durchaus ein Geheimnis zu lüften und zusammen mit Lori erkunden wir London und erfahren ein wenig aus der Nachkriegszeit. Vielleicht ist es kein Crime, aber sicher ein Mystery.
Ich habe mich wieder sehr wohl mit diesem Band aus der Reihe gefühlt und freue mich schon auf den nächsten Band.
February 20, 2018
Aunt Dimity and her Past Lori is happily married to Bill and they have twin sons and a baby daughter. They are settled in the cottage, her father-in-law, William, is living in Ivy Cottage with his new wife and they are all as happy as can be in the village of Finch. For the village, moving day is an exciting day, someone new is moving in and everyone wants a good view of the new neighbors and their household items. Trouble starts when they notice that there are boxes labeled "Museum" and they order/ask Lori to go in and get to the bottom of those boxes. She makes friends with the new people and when she learns that the movers broke the blender, she offers one of the blenders she has in her attic from when she and Bill got married. When she goes to the attic to find a blender to give the new neighbors as a housewarming gift, she finds an armlet and goes to the study to talk with Dimity. She learns that it was a gift from a young man that she knew after the war and their time together ended badly and she asks Lori to find the man, she only knew as Badger, and explain to him why she was not able to commit to him.
I really enjoyed the story and enjoyed hearing it with my children as we drove in the car running errands and taking care of things. I enjoyed the progression of life for Lori and her family and all that is happening in the village. I like how people change and grow and allow for fixing things others did when they were younger. I also enjoyed Lori's search for the truth behind the gift. I loved the involvement of men and women who served in the wars and how their lives progressed after the war and the way they don't consider themselves heroes for what they did during the war.
I really enjoyed the story and enjoyed hearing it with my children as we drove in the car running errands and taking care of things. I enjoyed the progression of life for Lori and her family and all that is happening in the village. I like how people change and grow and allow for fixing things others did when they were younger. I also enjoyed Lori's search for the truth behind the gift. I loved the involvement of men and women who served in the wars and how their lives progressed after the war and the way they don't consider themselves heroes for what they did during the war.
April 13, 2019
No Murder, Still Good
A new couple has moved into the village of Finch and Lori has been shoved into finding out about the boxes marked museum.
Lori is invited in by Felicity and James Hobson and finds out his hobby is metal detecting and their blender didn't make it through the move.
Lori offers one of her extras, and finds a armlet, and that starts the journey of finding Badger for Aunt Dimity to deliver a message.
The story and characters were quite good but my problem with the book was it seemed to drag in parts and I really could care less about all the attention the village people gave her new 8 month old daughter or how cute she is. For me it added nothing to the story.
A new couple has moved into the village of Finch and Lori has been shoved into finding out about the boxes marked museum.
Lori is invited in by Felicity and James Hobson and finds out his hobby is metal detecting and their blender didn't make it through the move.
Lori offers one of her extras, and finds a armlet, and that starts the journey of finding Badger for Aunt Dimity to deliver a message.
The story and characters were quite good but my problem with the book was it seemed to drag in parts and I really could care less about all the attention the village people gave her new 8 month old daughter or how cute she is. For me it added nothing to the story.
July 11, 2024
Good fun, but I was disappointed that . While the detectorist element is new, archaeology in Finch is not new to the series, but that gets nary a mention. Continuity is not a strong point of the series but I wish it would have been mentioned for the story’s sake.
August 12, 2017
Missed last summer's installment of the Aunt Dimity series and caught up while on vacation. I really like this gentle series that takes the reader away to the little village of Finch with its quirky residents and the gossip, oh, my, the gossip.
March 10, 2020
I liked coming back to the town of Finch and visiting with Lori and her family. These books have become my comfy place. I know what to expect in the writing, but I'm pleasantly surprised by the mysteries and interactions with the characters.
February 4, 2017
This was the most recent in the series. I liked reading of exploring London, but this offering seemed rather predictable to me. I might try reading these in German - seems doable.
August 5, 2024
This was a book-on-tape we picked up for a road trip just based on the cozy mystery vibe. It veers straight into the cozy and leaves the mystery behind, unfortunately.
March 20, 2021
Such a cute quick cozy mystery! Funny I picked up one of the last books in the series but I’ll definitely go to more for a fun escape!
November 13, 2022
I do enjoy these stories of Lori and her quests and conquests in the little village of Finch, but I do not consider them mysteries. Still, they are fun tales and this far into the series I still keep coming back for more.
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