Death at Thorburn Hall

Drew Farthering Mystery #6

by Julianna Deering, DeAnna Julie Dodson

Drew Farthering finds a new mystery on his hands when he arrives at Thorburn Hall in Scotland for the 1935 British Open. His host, Lord Rainsby, asks Drew to investigate a suspected embezzler--then dies in a suspicious accident the next day. However, the house is full of guests with potential motives. Can Drew discover the killer among them?

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Christian, Christian Fiction, Historical Mystery

329 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2017

About the author

JULIANNA DEERING has always been an avid reader and a lover of storytelling, whether on the page, the screen or the stage. This, along with her keen interest in history and her Christian faith, shows in her tales of love, forgiveness and triumph over adversity. A fifth-generation Texan, she makes her home north of Dallas with three spoiled cats and, when not writing, spends her free time quilting, cross stitching and watching NHL hockey. Her new series of Drew Farthering mysteries set in 1930s England debuts with Rules of Murder (Bethany House, Summer 2013) and will be followed by Death by the Book (Bethany House, Spring 2014) and Murder at the Mikado (Bethany House, Summer 2014). She is represented by Wendy Lawton of the Books & Such Literary Agency (www.booksandsuch.biz).


AKA http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
An excellent Golden-Age style mystery. There's a subtle beginning, and then Bam! A murder. I love the vintage 1930s flavor to it, and the way it feels as though it could have actually been written in that time period.

I jumped into this one without having read any of the previous books and truly enjoyed getting to know Drew and Madeline and their friends. I own the first three books but haven't gotten around to reading them, so I definitely have them on my list to read next year.

The mystery kept me intrigued, and the murderer honestly had me guessing! I caught a few glimpses but didn't string the clues together rightly until the very end. Wow! It's hard to find a mystery that baffles me, since I have read so many. The references to period literature were great, and it was fun to see the edges of a spy movement leading up to WW2. I'm definitely hoping that the author writes more of these Drew Farthering books!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free review copy.

[Sarah Sundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Julianna Deering brings us the delightful team of Drew and Madeline Farthering and their friends Nick and Carrie. Death at Thorburn Hall provides witty banter, a brooding Scottish setting, characters with layers of secrets, and a mystery that keeps you guessing to the end. I heartily recommend this book.

[Cara Putman · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is something about these novels that always makes me think of the Thin Man movies, but Death at Thorburn Hall did even more so. There's a sweet development in a romance, and Drew and Madeline are as sweet and cute as ever, so like Nick and Nora. This time Drew and Madeline are off with Nick and Carrie to enjoy the 1935 British Open. You know if they're going to be there a murder won't be far behind. Unfortunately, one soon happens, followed by others. And our sleuths are determined to get to the bottom of the mysteries. It's a true puzzle and one I enjoyed trying to figure out before I reach The End of Death at Thorburn Hall. I won't tell you if I was successful :-)

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading the Farthering mysteries has been a delight. I grew up reading Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers and Ngaio Marsh so these novels by Deering are ones I thoroughly enjoy.

I like Drew Farthering. He's an amateur detective whom none of the officials want to have around interfering with their investigation. I am getting to like his wife more and more. She's a good sidekick for him, someone with whom he can discuss his theories. The repartee between the two is intelligent and fun to read.

I like the setting of Scotland during the British Open. It's a refreshing change from the London area. I like the time period. It's during the troubling years of Hitler exercising his power.

I like the plot. The murders offer no apparent connection and that really tests Farthering's investigative powers. I kind of had an idea of the murderer but there were so many red herrings that I was unsure of the culprit until near the end.

I really like Deering's writing style. There are great scene descriptions. There is snappy dialog. There are well developed characters. I like the historical information. I like the subtle romance.

While this novel can be read on its own, I'd recommend starting at the beginning of the series. Each one is enjoyable to read.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought the Drew Farthering Mystery series couldn't get any better -- it does! Drew and Madeline are in fine form as they battle an intrepid killer and some surprising political intrigue -- this is Britain just years before World War II after all. As always the romance between Drew and Madeline makes me giddy and loyal friend Nick finally gets his chance in a secondary love story. Nothing like giving this reader exactly what she wants! The mystery is twisty turny with plenty of unexpected bumps along the way and just the right dose of humour to lighten even the most tense scenes. Fans of BBC period mystery series will adore Drew Farthering and I think we all need to start up a petition to get them to turn these books (six to date) into their next blockbuster success.

[Rissi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death at Thorburn Hall by Julianna Deering – Fan Favorite (Sleuth-er!) Fathering and Co. Return

Happily settled into their life as marrieds, Drew Farthering and American wife, Madeline, are enjoying a vacation. An invitation issued to the couple by Drew’s distant cousin, Lady Louisa. Along
with rest and relaxation, they are also in Scotland for the British Open. But time on the links is not exactly what they find…

Instead, as he is wont to do, Drew is drawn into another mystery following an unexpected death when their host falls victim to an apparent riding accident. As more suspicious happenings occur, Drew – along with his pal Nick, begins to piece together the puzzling clues.

As is always the case with any book that has this author’s name on its retro cover, Death at Thorburn Hall is full of good things, people, places and simply put, good fun. I will admit I’m a little fuzzy over the opening, and early pages of the book, which in no way reflects on the storytelling or the plot. Instead, this is attributed to the “distracted reader” syndrome. (Something I 100% know I was while reading this.) Because of this, I feel as if this will be a novel that deserves a re-read, but given the fact that I sincerely enjoyed the book so very much, waiting to share about it simply wasn’t an option.

Like each book (this one makes the sixth in total) before it, ‘Thorburn Hall’ is wonderful. From the characters to the settings (the experience takes us to Scotland for this go-round!), everything is perfection. With each book, I’ve come to love Drew and Madeline as a couple a little bit more. These books are quick reads, fun and reminiscent of so many story mediums I adore most. Reading this reminded me all the more acutely of the fact that I’ve yet to read Murder on the Moor (book five), and I relish the chance to have another adventure with these characters – even if it will be going backward!

The usual shenanigans are gotten up to which pairs with the usual list of suspects that stack up. There are some nice resolutions that those of us who’ve been with the series since book one will appreciate. Then there is the sweet flirty banter between Drew and Madeleine.

Pulling from wonderful TV series like Grantchester or Miss Fischer’s Murder Mysteries, this 1930s historical series is smart and enormously entertaining. The “voice” is perfection and the characters are 100% comfortable in this world. In short, it’s a series historical aficionados won’t want to miss.

Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of this book (sincere apologies to the publisher and author for the review publication delay); all opinions are my own.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the perfect final book to the series, where all those little things--like Nick and Carrie's relationship and a certain mystery I had completely forgotten about--are finally resolved. I loved the sense of the international scene in this one--not so much the golfing (a very minor part of the story, anyway), but how people are keeping an eye on eastern Europe and the new regime growing in Germany, and how it is a controversial topic and growing point of concern. The clock is noticeably ticking down toward WWII.

I really appreciate how the author portrays Drew and Madeline's relationship. They got married three books ago, and yet somehow the adventure hasn't ended! Plus they're still cute and romantic, even after several years of marriage (the climbing up to the window scene was adorable and funny). Like all married couples, they've had to work through issues, but they've also found their rhythm and now they get to help Nick and Carrie work through their issues, having experienced much the same things themselves.

This was a case where I really had no good guess on the murderer. Now that it's solved, I can see why Drew was a confused as I was; it was a sneaky trick on the author's part. I heartily approve. Complex, yet the clues were really all there, if I had only recognized them as such.

If I'm wrong about this being the last Drew Farthering mystery, then I won't be disappointed.

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for an e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

[Novelesque Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

RATING: 4 STARS
​(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY​)​
(Review Not on Blog)

Carrie has come to visit Madeline, Drew and especially Nick. They decide to take up Drew's Aunt's invitation to stay with them and attend the Open. What was meant to be a vacation for the two couples, turns into another murder mystery. Nick was planning to ask Carrie to stay and marry him, but their involvement in solving murders scares her away. Drew feels obligated to help his aunt and cousin when his Uncle dies and find the killer. When more bodies turn up, Carrie is ready to return to America. I love these cozy mysteries. It reminds me of classic mystery stories from the 30s and 40s which I enjoy. I really hope there are more to come.

[Sydney Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great new series for me! And a giveaway of the ENTIRE set -- https://sydsavvy.blogspot.com/2017/12...

Occasionally, I'll pick up a book to review, and I'll find that I'm all in. So all in, in fact, that I want to read the first book in the series right away. This was one of those books.

I have always loved mysteries, but my first love in the mystery genre was the cozy mystery (more about the solve and the detective, in a somewhat contained setting, and glossing over the gore). So for me, finding a great new cozy mystery series is like finding gold, especially a book set in England (or Scotland) post WW I and pre WWII.

Death at Thorburn Hall reads, smells, and tastes like the mysteries written by the great dames of the genre. And yet, the amateur detectives, Drew Fatherington and crew, so come to life with their own stories, loves, and losses, that this mystery series stands completely on its own in a very satisfying way. Also, for those of us still pining for Downton Abbey, this book fills a need with its upper crust and downstairs characters. Even better, the danger abounds, as murders and would be suspects and red herrings pile up.

I can't say more without giving anything away, so here is my suggestion: sign up for the giveaway and put the book on your list. Then, while you are waiting to see if you won, go read that first Drew Farthering Mystery (better yet, listen to it with the dreamy, extremely talented Simon Vance). You'll be ever so glad you did.

Kudos, Julianna Deering. Thank you for a review copy in exchange for an honest book review.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death at Thorburn Hall by Julianna Deering is the sixth book in the series starring Drew and Madeline Farthering.

Drew is suave, debonair and entirely a gentleman. Mysterious situations seem to follow Drew and Madeline around. But Drew just can’t help himself from getting involved. This time he was asked by the victim to look into suspicious circumstances.
Drew, wife Madeline, her friend Carrie and Nick, Drew’s valet, are going to the 1935 golf Open in Scotland. They are staying at Cousin Louisa’s estate, expecting a nice relaxing getaway. Carrie has come from the States for a visit. Nick, Drew’s right hand man, is hoping to convince Carrie to stay and marry him.
Mysteries abound but Drew forms suppositions that include possible spies. Not to mention someone from Drew’s past surfaces who may play an important role. Drew and Madeline rely on God and prayer to sort it all out.

The comparison has been made to Nick and Nora Charles of Thin Man Fame, only with a Christian twist. It was a very fun time trying to figure out how the puzzle pieces fit. The witty banter is very cute.
I recommend this book and the whole series to those who enjoy a retro flair to their mysteries. Definitely give them a try.

*I received this book from the author in a giveaway. All opinions are my own.*

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

"How one is to predict accidental happenings, I cannot say, . . . . . . . but I will do the best I can."

It's no accident after all. While visiting a distant cousin and her husband at Thorburn Hall in Scotland, with plans to attend the British Open, Drew and Madeline Farthering are appalled when their host is killed during a riding accident on the estate. Lord Rainsby was an accomplished horseman, which made the incident all that more suspicious.

Joined by Nick Dennison and Carrie Holland, the foursome begin their quiet investigation into the matter, only to discover that the case has more twists and turns than expected. When other house guests exhibit some rather bizarre behaviors, and another seemingly unrelated corpse is discovered, Drew begins to worry that national security is at stake, while Nick is terrified that Carrie is going to leave him again without a promise of "till death do us part".

Julianna Deering has crafted yet another brilliant mixture of murder and mayhem, mingled with the sweet fragrance of vintage romance!

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am coming into this series at book six, but it made for a great stand-alone read. I am looking forward to going back and catching up on the previous escapades of Drew and Madeline Farthering and Nick Dennison. My husband and I are fans of several BBC mystery series, and I could absolutely see a series built around these characters. I would recommend The Drew Farthering Mysteries to both men and women.
Set in England in the 1930s, the Drew Farthering series has the feel of Christie, Sayers and James; names well known to fans of British writers from the Golden Age of Detective Fiction. In Death at Thorburn Hall Drew and his entourage are tasked to unearth the secrets of their host’s formerly trusted business partner who has begun to act in a very suspicious manner. The investigation quickly turns into the search for a murderer, a search that turns even more deadly and pits our detectives against possible Nazi spies. Nick, Drew’s right-hand man, struggles throughout the investigation as he is torn between dedication to Drew and love of country and his attempts to win the hand of Carrie, the love of his life who has a major aversion to his detective work.
Julianna Deering, who also writes under her real name, DeAnna Julie Dodson, may live in Texas, but she provides her readers with a real flavor of 1930s England’s upper class. In the fashion of other writers of the same era, Deering provides a cast of suspects and plenty of red herrings. She allows her readers to wade through these and to weed out the important clues, avoiding giving them surprises that come out of nowhere as the solution to the mystery comes to light. Mystery fans will find this book a real treat.
I thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for providing me a copy of Death at Thorburn Hall in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for this review.

[Kelly Hodgkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as Death at Thorburn arrived, I had to tuck in! I’ve missed the Fartherings’ adventures and, within a few pages, Nick and Carrie are on the scene – the four, all back together, are poised for a simple Scottish holiday to go awry! As with Julianna Deering’s previous novels, the cast of characters is diverse, rich and several have questionable motives. The mystery is a tangle of threads to be unravelled and the resolution is surprising! Just the thing for a detective story!

The references to Christianity are subtle and a favourite aspect for me, it feels naturally woven in. The romance between Nick and Carrie is another lovely story line. All in all, a great novel, 5 out of 5 on the en-JOY-ment scale!

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drew and Madeline Fathering are back. They are visiting Drew's distant relatives, Lord and Lady Rainsby of Thornburn Hall, and planning to watch the Open at Muirfield, Edinburgh. They are not the only guests—there is also a married couple, and a Russian artiste seeking his muse.

Death at Thornburn Hall is the sixth book in the Drew Fathering series. Each book is a standalone murder mystery, which means you don't have to read the earlier books first (although there are some plot threads that trail though the series). It follows the pattern established in the first book, Rules of Murder.

Drew arrives somewhere (Thornburn Hall, in this instance).
There is a death (sometimes there is more than one).
Drew investigates.
The local police force don't appreciate Drew's efforts.
Drew solves the crime with help from Nick and Madeline.

There is plenty of witty banter between Drew, a member of the British aristocracy, Madeline, his American wife, and Nick Dennison, Drew's best friend and the son of the Fathering Hall butler (a friendship that continues to raise eyebrows).

And Carrie is back: Madeline's American best friend, who Nick would like to persuade to stay forever ... However, Carrie is not stupid. She's realised the same thing the rest of us have realised: Drew Fathering attracts murder. Murder attracts risk and danger.

But that's the fun! Well, that's the fun for me, as a reader. Carrie doesn't see it quite the same way ...

The writing is excellent, as usual. There is a cast of characters ranging from mysterious to suspicious. Some things are not what they seem, and there are plenty of genuine clues scattered among the red herrings. The ending is satisfying on several levels (well, satisfying to the core characters. The murderer, as usual, is less than satisfied with being caught by Drew). All in all, an excellent romp.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Donna Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I write book reviews for basically two authors these days, and Julianna Deering is one of them. I write my feelings about the book, which was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

The latest in the Drew Farthering series is one of the best. It’s book number six in the series. I think it must be difficult to write a long series like this, but Julianna is doing just fine. She brings in what are called in the writing world, “long strands” or strings of plot, as well as the story at hand. Reference to other stories in the series is usually included. That makes it fun.

I’ve been reading this series from the beginning. My favorite one is still the second in the series, (Death by the Book), but each book has its own distinct flair and fun mystery.

I enjoyed this because it takes place at what we would call The British Open in 1935. Politics at the time: Hitler is rising to power in Germany. Already people are taking sides whether or not they like what he’s doing there.

Drew & Madeline, Nick & Carrie come to Thorburn Hall to stay during the Open. The lord of the manor, Lord Rainsby, dies in a riding accident. A daughter, Joan, asks Drew to look into her father’s death.

As Drew investigates, he finds complications with Rainsby’s will, which casts suspicion on the lady of the house, Lady Louisa. Other players include a Russian count who pilfers anything small, but of value, friends of Lady Louisa, a caddie, and a local police sergeant who helps Drew in his unofficial investigations.

Death at Thorburn Hall is probably now my second favorite, because of the long strand plot resolution she’s included in this. It has to do with Drew’s search for his natural mother, from the early books in the series. Very satisfactory conclusion to his search, alluded to at the beginning of the book.

Carrie is Madeline’s friend, and she’s in love with Nick, but cannot tolerate the danger when he helps Drew with the case. Will she decide to stay in England, or go back to America?

All in all, I’d give Death at Thorburn Hall 4.5 stars. Great book!

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its taken me over a year to read this book from Netgalley. The problem with that is I've forgotten about some of the characters so it took me a while to catch up (on honestly, I struggled to keep up with all the new ones in this story from time to time).

Once I did get into it though, it was a very good mystery story in what is now an established series, which included plenty of twists, turns, red-herrings, witty banter - and a cute kitty. There were also a host of interesting and colourful characters, including a Russian Count and potential swindler.
I did feel, as with some of the previous stories that the multiple murders became a little unnecessary. It did not really add anything to the mystery, per se, except to exonerate one of the suspects.

The stories in this series follow something of a formula, but that's not necessarily a criticism. Even many of Agatha Christie's stories did. Some of the hints about the developing political situation and the looming threat of war in mid 1930s Britain were interesting, adding an authentic edge and leaving the possibility open for more stories to follow.

My main complaint was the same as with the previous book. Sadly it was ruined by a surfeit of Americanisms used by the British character. Referring to a Scotsman as a 'loyal Englishman' was another unfortunate error.
Confusing England and Britain is not a mistake British people would usually make, but Drew and his fellows do.

I think that's the one thing which prevents me from giving the novels in this series a higher rating. Overall, its one of the better titles in the series so far- although I wish the Publisher would put the Kindle edition on sale sometime soon.

I requested an E-Galley via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drew Farthering arrives in idyllic Scotland for the 1935 British Open at Muirfield hoping for a relaxing vacation, but he soon finds a mystery on his hands. Lord Rainsby, his host at Thorburn Hall, fears his business partner may be embezzling and asks Drew to quietly investigate. Before Drew can uncover anything, Rainsby is killed in a suspicious riding accident.

Thorburn Hall is filled with guests, and as Drew continues to dig, he realizes that each might have had a motive. Together with Madeline and Nick, he must sort through shady business dealings, international intrigue, and family tensions to find a killer who always seems to be one step ahead.

This is book 6 in the Drew Farthering Mystery series. While this may be read as a stand alone, I would greatly suggest that you read the series from the beginning to enjoy all of the character development and back stories that accompany all of the books in this series. Once again, Drew is in the middle of doing nothing when a mystery lands in his lap. It seems that no matter what he does to enjoy some down time, a mystery always seems to find him. With a setting around the British Open in the 1930’s, this is a glimpse back in history in a way that brings a unique period in time to life all the while telling a fantastic story.

Is this a "Guys Book"? Murder, mayhem and intrigue. 3 great components of a must read book. Not just for men, being set during the British Open does help that, everyone will enjoy this book. Hopefully this isn’t the end to a terrific series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion, as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can Drew find another killer before it's too late?

Can this really be goodbye to Drew, Madeline, and Nick, at least for now? No!!! I've been a fan of this series since I bought the first book and was transported to a time and world long gone. I have eagerly awaited each new book and Death At Thorburn Hall was no exception.

I will tell you this, a few, a scant few, of my suspicions were founded. But, oh, did Julianna Deering do an excellent job sidetracking me and making me feel so clever and yet I turned out to be so wrong, at least until just a few pages before the revelation of the murderer's identity. Normally, I love to be right but in this case I just enjoyed the story, and the act of puzzling things over, so much that I didn't mind at all.

Lots of period atmosphere, a puzzling mystery, no one being as they first appear, and a truly cold-blooded killer, made for some delightfully chilling reading. There is truly nothing like a cozy murder, or two, or more, for curling up on an otherwise inauspicious grey winter day. Death At Thorburn Hall fit the bill perfectly.

If you enjoy historical mysteries you really should check out this book and the rest of Julianna Deering's wonderful Drew Farthering Mysteries!

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Courtney Stuart · Rating 3 out of 5]

I confess my surprise when researching this author to read that it was Julianna Deering (the pen name of DeAnna Julie Dodson) a fifth-generation Texan who wrote this excellent cosy mystery and not a history soaked sop hidden in an idyllic part of the United Kingdom, such was her ability to transport the reader to 1930s UK, complete with language and customs. Drew and his American wife Madeleine find themselves visiting distant family for the annual British Open golf tournament, when their host dies a seemingly accidental death, suddenly leaving a newly-minted widow and troubled daughter alone in a beautiful home. Urged to search for the presumed truth, Drew, along with his friend Nick delve into a mystery aided willingly by Madeleine and not so willingly by Nicks love interest Carrie, another American. Slowly more threads of the story unravel and more bodies find their way to the local morgue.
I loved that this story is published by a Christian imprint (Bethany House Publishers) and that whilst faith was mentioned throughout the story, God was never beaten over the head of the unsuspecting reader with moralistic platitudes nor did it ever make the characters seem gullible or simple. The setting was neatly drawn and the tale complete with a red herring or two so as to not make the mystery too easy to solve.
It was a jolly good show!

[Phillip Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first I have seen of the Drew Fathering series, but I'm glad I found out about it. Julianna Deering does a good job at writing a story that holds your attention and keeps you turning the page to find out what happens.

There is a variety of story types in Death at Thorburn Hall. Overall is the traditional mystery, but there are parts with action, suspense, and some romance mixed in. The faith of the main characters undergirds their decisions during the book. It has enough to interest a wide audience.

The plot moves along at an easy pace, and the characters are well described. You can get a good feel for both the people and times through the descriptions in the book. Though it is a part of a series, and previous events are mentioned, you don't have to read the other books to understand what is going on.

It holds true to being a mystery. There are many characters that are involved in the plot, and you get the sense that it could have been any one of them that committed the crime. If you're one to try to follow along and solve the crime before the culprit is identified, you might end up stumped. Just when you think you have it figured out, a twist comes that makes you stop and wonder if you're right.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and I look forward to reading more in the series.

I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read! I really enjoyed this Drew Farthering mystery, it being the second I've read in the series. Though I did find it's pace a little slower in the beginning, and I was a little sad at who ends up being the baddie. I really liked the person and didn't want them to be the baddie! There was also a touch of confusion as I was reading along. I thought at first I had missed something when a clue was brought up, but as I went back and searched through what I had read before I couldn't find any pre-mention of the clue. :/ I did enjoy all of the characters though and I LOVE that Nick and Carrie are included in the cast! Plus I absolutely love Drew and Madeline! We also learn even more about Drew's past! And top all of that with a Scottish setting! <3 Reading these later books leaves me chomping at the bit to read the ones before it, and also leaves me longing for more! I hope to see Drew, Madeline, and their friends and relatives again in more books soon! ;)

Songs: "Whom Shall I Fear" by Chris Tomlin, "Amazing Grace"
Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC

Proverbs 13:24

~ASC

*I requested and received this book from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about Death at Thorburn Hall. ~ASC

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's my own fault that I picked a book later in a series to read/review without having read the other books. (This is a recurring theme in my life, which you'll know if you've spent any amount of time on my blog.) So yes, spoilers for previous books abounded in Death at Thorburn Hall. I expected that and didn't bat an eye; this is one instance where it was helpful to have all those references. (Sometimes that really annoys me, like in the Harry Potter books. We know he's a wizard, the Dursleys are bad, he does his homework in secret, etc., etc. But I digress.)

So props to Deering for catching up the rando reader such as myself on past events throughout the book. :)

I also immensely enjoyed the Scottish setting; its plethora of references to Edinburgh, Muirfield, and even a couple to St. Andrews nearly made me buy a plane ticket! (And don't you just love the vintage cover?!)

The characters were interesting, and I am intrigued enough to pick up the other books in the series and put events in context. (And that's saying something, especially since there are 5 of these "other books".)

An engaging "whodunit" book perfect to read on a rainy afternoon in Seattle (of which we have many). Clean, faith-based without being preachy, and one that kept me guessing till the end.

I received a free copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I've come to the end of another Drew Farthering mystery. Despite the inevitable let down (this is completely my own fault for gobbling it down, instead of reading it slowly and savoring it!), I'm left with this happy glow at the end of this one.

There were soooo many things to love about Death at Thorburn Hall. For one thing, it takes place in Scotland! This is the stomping ground of my ancestors, and a place I've always longed to visit - and always adore visiting in books. The sights, sounds, and flavor of Scotland all came through so clearly on every page.

So many familiar faces in this one! I loved seeing Birdsong again, even if it was only for a few pages. He's one of my favorite characters in the series, and I loved him and Drew stumbling across each other at the Open. And Carrie! She's back! She's been there since the beginning, even if she hasn't necessarily been present in every book, and I love her friendship with the always-lovely Mrs. Farthering, and her relationship with Nick is beyond adorable. Which brings me to Nick's journey in this book - without giving out spoilers, I have to say that I love seeing glimpses of his more serious side. The happy-go-lucky mask he wears covers up some pretty intense thoughts and feelings, and I really enjoyed delving a little more into his inner self in this one.

I wondered from the beginning how Mrs. Deering was going to handle WWII. We're beginning to see some pretty important lead-up in this one, with some serious discussion about "that fellow in Berlin" and tensions rising as sides are being taken, even between friends. Sprinkling in some political intrigue and a hint of espionage in Death at Thorburn Hall made it even more delicious, and fun! Trying to find the connections between the murders and the other goings-on in the area kept me guessing and gobbling up the pages right up till the end.

And that ending - oh wow! I melted into a little fluffy pile of goo. And that's all I'll say about that, because you have GOT to read this book yourself and find out just what I mean! ;)

Another amazing addition to my shelf and the Drew Farthering series. Ms. Deering never disappoints with Drew's adventures, and always leaves me salivating for more - and eagerly anticipating Drew and company's next adventure! Thank you!

[Becky B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drew and Madeline Farthering have been invited up to Thorburn Hall in Scotland for the week of the British Open at Muirfield by Drew’s cousin, Lady Louisa Rainsby. Nick is joining them, as is Madeline’s friend Carrie who is coming for a visit from America (and they hope Nick can convince her to stay for quite a while). Lord and Lady Rainsby’s daughter Joan is to return from Cannes soon, and one other set of guests arrived on the same train as the Fartherings, a Mr. & Mrs. Pike along with Mrs. Pike’s pet project the musician Count Kuznetsov (whose musical skills are unproven, but his leeching skills are evident to all but Mrs. Pike). While the week starts off with some restful golf enjoyment, Lord Rainsby asks Drew to keep an eye on his old friend Mac saying something just doesn’t seem right. The next day while the group is out for a ride, Lord Rainsby is thrown from his horse and dies. Though the police believe it is nothing more than a tragic accident, Drew receives requests to look into it further from the family. Carrie’s brush with own personal tragedy makes her eager to run off before Nick can pop the question. Drew becomes more afraid events are linked to that German man getting more and more news coverage. And it will take all of his wits plus some help from Nick, Madeline, and a friend of Inspector Birdsong to puzzle out the tangled mess.

I think this is my favorite Drew Farther book since the first one. And there are a number of reasons for that. First off, for quite a while it seems like there are simply no suspects with good motives. And the mystery elements (yes, there’s more than one…a few deaths, the German link, and the question of Count Kuznetsov’s real game) kept me guessing for the majority of the book. One ongoing mystery for the series is answered Drew gets some more info on his biological mother while another one is opened MI5 is involved in a Nazi spy sting, and Drew almost meets the leader but then doesn’t and that leader’s identity is never revealed…I have a feeling that’s going to come up again in the future. Drew and Madeline are just as cute a couple as ever. I love their witty banter and moments of mushiness. Hooray for a married couple still in love after more than a year of marriage in literature! Carrie’s return was wonderful, added a touch of tenderness to the story (and humor as Drew and Madeline struggle to be patient waiting for Nick to propose) and offered an opportunity to explore how an average person would respond to being constantly in the line of danger and how Drew, Madeline, and Nick deal with the fear. Drew and Madeline’s Christian faith comes up as they discuss this issue with Carrie. It feels natural and fitting, and isn’t preachy. Golf history fans may appreciate the golfers Drew is cheering on during the Open. The start of a segue into the WWII era was a very interesting touch with Brits/Scots divided on their feelings about whether Hitler is going to be good for Germany or not. And lastly, Count Kuznetsov and Mrs Pike reminded me quite a bit of a side plot in the old black and white movie My Man Godfrey. Deering had to have been thinking of that somewhat when she wrote this. It starts off so very similar to that movie but Kuznetsov’s story ends a bit differently. In all, a delightful historical fiction mystery that keeps you guessing and feels very much like one of the old classics.

Notes on content (based on the ARC): No language issues. No sexual content. It’s hinted that one guy is a bit of a player and that the Rainsby daughter was having an affair, but absolutely no lurid details. There are three fatalities, only one has some blood described but even then hardly any. As normal for the time period, side characters are described smoking and drinking.

I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennay Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death at Thorburn Hall is another (and I think final? Don’t quote me on that!) installment in The Drew Farthering Mysteries and the second of the series that I have read and reviewed. This time, Drew and Madeline have been invited to enjoy the British Open at one of Drew’s relatives – Lord and Lady Rainsby. Lord Rainsby informs Drew privately that he wishes Drew to do some clandestine investigating into one of the Rainsby’s friends, Mr Reginald MacArthur, although what exactly Gerald Rainsby is concerned about Drew does not know. This becomes even more problematic when Lord Rainsby is killed when he accidentally falls from his horse. Of course, this is no accident (hence the title) and Drew, Madeline, Nick Dennison and Carrie once again find themselves in the midst of multiple murders, mixed motives and perhaps a little espionage…

I really enjoyed this read – there’s a little Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest-ness to Deering’s writing and inter-character banter which I thoroughly enjoyed – I actually chuckled out loud on one or two occasions. The plot (and sub plots) too, was well-paced, well-thought-out, intriguing, and I did not find it annoyingly predictable. I also find that her character development and characterization are both strong – which is important as if it was not, the style of writing in conjunction with her characters may have been irritatingly.

I look forward to reading the other Drew Farthering Mysteries!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in order to review.

[Loraine Nunley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drew Farthering’s reputation as a top amateur sleuth follows him even on vacation and since Drew is the kind of man who can’t refuse helping others, he is drawn into yet another investigation. There are lots of suspects but as each one is killed or cleared, Drew is stumped. Full review is at my website.

Note: I received this book complimentary in a giveaway. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.

[Suey Nordberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy these light-hearted mysteries for a feel-good quick (or not so quick, in my case) read. I correctly guessed the villain, then un-guessed, then guessed again, and that was satisfying. :-)

[Disha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death at Thorburn Hall, as the name suggests, is a murder mystery. Drew and Madeline Farthering have come to Scotland to visit Drew’s distant relations and to attend “The Open”–which is a golf tournament. But all is not as it seems, and their host, Lord Rainsby, has an ulterior motive behind inviting Drew–a detective–to his home. Lord Rainsby wants Drew to investigate his friend and colleague, MacArthur. The true mystery, though, starts when Lord Rainsby is found dead in a supposed riding accident. There is not much that can be said about the story without revealing the entire plot, so you will have to read the book yourself to get all the details; and I definitely recommend reading it, especially for the Sherlock Holmes fans.

The author has done a fantastic job of unraveling the mystery. I was completely hooked! This is the first book in Deering’s ‘Drew Farthering Mystries’ that I have read, though it is the sixth installment in the series, and I absolutely loved it! This is the kind of book that will pull you in completely and compel you to unfold the mystery right along with the characters.

For more such reviews, please visit my blog: bookpeekblog.wordpress.com

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite detective is back on the case! Not only that, but with Carrie’s return from the States, the whole gang’s back together again! Unfortunately, Carrie’s not as enthusiastic about amateur sleuthing as her friends (those who have read some of the earlier novels will know why), so poor Nick is sometimes torn between helping Drew and Madeline, and spending time with Carrie, but when Lord Rainsby’s daughter asks Drew to look into her father’s ‘accidental’ death, the gentleman in him can hardly say no, now, can he?

Once again, there’s a great ensemble cast here:
- the grieving widow, Lady Louisa Rainsby, and her daughter Joan;
- golf caddie Jamie Tyler, who’s earned a reputation as a cad as well as a caddie;
- Lord Rainsby’s long-time friend and business partner Reginald MacArthur, a cartographer whose political loyalties might be in question;
- Lady Louisa’s dear friend Elspeth Pike and her somewhat dour-faced husband;
- and last, but most definitely not least, the enigmatic, nimble-fingered Russian Count Kuznetsov, who claims that Elspeth Pike is his muse (he’s writing a symphony, you know), much to her husband’s chagrin.

Only one or two of these characters avoided any serious suspicion during the story, and I remained clueless as to the real villain until the end.

If you’ve read any of Drew’s previous adventures, you’ll know that Julianna Deering captures the 1930s era and her characters perfectly. In this instance, I particularly enjoyed Drew’s interactions with Count Kuznetsov, which showed Drew at his politely ironic best (I seriously don’t know how he kept a straight face, because I sure didn’t!) And as always, I love the beautiful picture of married love and companionship that Drew and Madeline portray.

There are also some personal developments for some of our favourite characters. As previously mentioned, Nick and Carrie are finally on the same continent again. It’s no secret that Nick’s ready to pop the question, but there are still a few clouds on the horizon. And Drew’s search for his birth mother has been unsuccessful to date. Is it a waste of time and money to continue?

As a lover of Dorothy L. Sayers and Agatha Christie, this series has been a thoroughly enjoyable addition to my mystery collection, and I sincerely hope it’s not the last we see of Drew and friends!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Viki Ferrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Travel back to mid-1930s England for another delightful adventure with Drew and Madeline Farthering. DEATH AT THORBURN HALL is Julianna Derring’s sixth book in her Drew Fathering Mysteries series. Ms. Derring’s characters are always an eclectic mix with surprises in store for everyone. Drew, Madeline and Nick have been at this amateur sleuthing for some time now and are getting pretty good at it, much to the dismay of the local authorities. The storyline is filled with tension and intrigue and takes several twists and turns on the way to a surprising conclusion. You’ll enjoy the antics and reasoning of these three sleuths as they search for the real killer. DEATH AT THORBURN HALL is also filled with inspirational thoughts that are very encouraging and uplifting. Don’t miss any of this charming series!