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Deadly #6
Deadly Darkness
As Britain prepares for an imminent invasion, the murder of a celebrated Arctic explorer leads to the discovery of a web of Nazi spies on the south coast.
July, 1939. Newlywed Olivia Denis Redmond plans to spend a peaceful honeymoon in the country before war rips her soldier husband away. But when she finds a dead body in the midst of a blackout, Olivia is drawn into the investigation.
Since the police inspector isn’t interested in clues pointing to espionage and blackmail, Olivia must unlock secrets hidden for years in this idyllic village and face the wrath of an unseen enemy.
As danger stalks her, can Olivia expose a cunning killer before she becomes the next victim?
Deadly Darkness, the sixth book in the Deadly Series, is for fans of World War II era spy thrillers and classic cozy mysteries, of intrepid lady sleuths with spunk and smarts. No explicit cursing, sex, or violence.
Start exploring this journey or mystery and intrigue today as Britain and Germany draw dangerously close to war.
July, 1939. Newlywed Olivia Denis Redmond plans to spend a peaceful honeymoon in the country before war rips her soldier husband away. But when she finds a dead body in the midst of a blackout, Olivia is drawn into the investigation.
Since the police inspector isn’t interested in clues pointing to espionage and blackmail, Olivia must unlock secrets hidden for years in this idyllic village and face the wrath of an unseen enemy.
As danger stalks her, can Olivia expose a cunning killer before she becomes the next victim?
Deadly Darkness, the sixth book in the Deadly Series, is for fans of World War II era spy thrillers and classic cozy mysteries, of intrepid lady sleuths with spunk and smarts. No explicit cursing, sex, or violence.
Start exploring this journey or mystery and intrigue today as Britain and Germany draw dangerously close to war.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2021
173 people are currently reading
274 people want to read
About the author
Kate Parker
29 books746 followersKate began reading Agatha Christie mysteries and the Nancy Drew books while her classmates were reading Dick and Jane. She particularly likes historical mysteries and the feeling of time travel a good historical book can give the reader. Combined with her love of late Victorian to World War II architecture and fashions, she found an outlet for the stories and characters that fill her head by writing The Victorian Bookshop Mysteries, The Milliner Mysteries, and The Deadly series, as well as taking part in the Christmas Revels anthologies.
So far, Kate has put out four free short stories, The Missing Brooch (Victorian Bookshop Mystery), Emily's First Case (Milliner Mysteries), and The Missing Maps and A Christmas Mystery (Deadly Series), to her newsletter list. The Mystery at Chadwick House is a novella that is free for newsletter subscribers or can be purchased at retailers. Sign up at www.KateParkerbooks.com to get free copies.
So far, Kate has put out four free short stories, The Missing Brooch (Victorian Bookshop Mystery), Emily's First Case (Milliner Mysteries), and The Missing Maps and A Christmas Mystery (Deadly Series), to her newsletter list. The Mystery at Chadwick House is a novella that is free for newsletter subscribers or can be purchased at retailers. Sign up at www.KateParkerbooks.com to get free copies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 7, 2021
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
We start with Olivia's wedding day which she has been waiting for. While the ceremony goes well afterward there are a few bumps getting scheduled where they wanted though they finally prevailed. The wedding night is where life gets in their way. Gearing up for WWII a mandatory blackout is scheduled for the same night and the new hubby is required to go on rounds checking for anyone not wanting to do it. Things start well but go downhill when a house shines like a beacon in the dark night and when they go check they stumble across a murdered man. This leads to an intriguing investigation that will keep you guessing as it all plays out. I especially like how realistic the characters feel as they deal with the effects of an upcoming war looming on the horizon as Parker captures how it felt along with the charm of England. Makes for quote the fun read for fans of historical cozies. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
We start with Olivia's wedding day which she has been waiting for. While the ceremony goes well afterward there are a few bumps getting scheduled where they wanted though they finally prevailed. The wedding night is where life gets in their way. Gearing up for WWII a mandatory blackout is scheduled for the same night and the new hubby is required to go on rounds checking for anyone not wanting to do it. Things start well but go downhill when a house shines like a beacon in the dark night and when they go check they stumble across a murdered man. This leads to an intriguing investigation that will keep you guessing as it all plays out. I especially like how realistic the characters feel as they deal with the effects of an upcoming war looming on the horizon as Parker captures how it felt along with the charm of England. Makes for quote the fun read for fans of historical cozies. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
March 3, 2021
Historical fiction readers as well as mystery lovers will appreciate this incredible series.
This book stands alone but will entice you to go back and read the series from the start.
The characters are very likable, except for the ones you are supposed to hate. Their evil is clear and deep.
I felt no remorse as a major demon died.
Another person, late in the book, portrayed as evil, and treated as such, has redeeming qualities and the author does a wonderful job of portraying things as not stark black and white.
Tragic events, as WII is beginning and people have not forgotten the horrors of previous wars, including the Great War. The British countryside knows they are not safe even if London is a major target.
Olivia "Livvy" Redmond wants to be enjoying her honeymoon. Her new husband, a Captain, will soon enough be called up to serve. Just being allowed to marry at this time was a struggle.
One person in particular contributed to that difficulty.
When his granddaughter disappears the very next day, the Redmonds are called into service to solve several mysteries and murders. It seems Sir Rupert's family will not cooperate in any matters that will discolor the family reputation.
This is a book about relationships, impending war, and topic of the times.
People take sides and opinions run strong. Secrets are hidden everywhere.
Prepare to sit a spell because you will be drawn in with danger on every page.
This book stands alone but will entice you to go back and read the series from the start.
The characters are very likable, except for the ones you are supposed to hate. Their evil is clear and deep.
I felt no remorse as a major demon died.
Another person, late in the book, portrayed as evil, and treated as such, has redeeming qualities and the author does a wonderful job of portraying things as not stark black and white.
Tragic events, as WII is beginning and people have not forgotten the horrors of previous wars, including the Great War. The British countryside knows they are not safe even if London is a major target.
Olivia "Livvy" Redmond wants to be enjoying her honeymoon. Her new husband, a Captain, will soon enough be called up to serve. Just being allowed to marry at this time was a struggle.
One person in particular contributed to that difficulty.
When his granddaughter disappears the very next day, the Redmonds are called into service to solve several mysteries and murders. It seems Sir Rupert's family will not cooperate in any matters that will discolor the family reputation.
This is a book about relationships, impending war, and topic of the times.
People take sides and opinions run strong. Secrets are hidden everywhere.
Prepare to sit a spell because you will be drawn in with danger on every page.
March 22, 2024
My favorite so far in the series, a tightly paced mystery with Olivia doing some real detective work to figure it out. I am not a fan of he stupid/stubborn police trope employed here, so I hope in future she finds a way to work with, rather than against them.
March 4, 2021
Deadly Darkness is the second book I've read in the Deadly series, and I've loved them both. WWII is one of my favorite eras to read about in historical fiction. We learn so much about history by reading historical fiction! No, the actual plot of the books are usually all fiction, but the historical events that are included (usually) actually happened.
Deadly Darkness starts with a blackout. It's not a blackout caused by overloaded power grids. These were forced blackouts...practice runs for the real deal. Blackouts were nothing to take lightly. If the planes can't see any lights below, they don't know a building is there...and they won't drop a bomb.
A bomb isn't the problem in Deadly Darkness...murder is.
If you've not read any of the Deadly series, you can easily start with this one! Yes, you'll get a few spoilers for the prior books, but they won't take away from your enjoyment of the mysteries if you do go back and read them. The mystery in Deadly Darkness is well-plotted and suspenseful.
In the last book, I discovered how much I love Olivia, the main character. I really loved the secondary characters in this one. My favorites in the book are very strong women, yet they've got some definite flaws. In other words, they're just like us...not perfect!
I highly recommend this book to all lovers of historical cozy mystery books! It's an enjoyable, quick read, and you'll be captivated by it!
Deadly Darkness starts with a blackout. It's not a blackout caused by overloaded power grids. These were forced blackouts...practice runs for the real deal. Blackouts were nothing to take lightly. If the planes can't see any lights below, they don't know a building is there...and they won't drop a bomb.
A bomb isn't the problem in Deadly Darkness...murder is.
If you've not read any of the Deadly series, you can easily start with this one! Yes, you'll get a few spoilers for the prior books, but they won't take away from your enjoyment of the mysteries if you do go back and read them. The mystery in Deadly Darkness is well-plotted and suspenseful.
In the last book, I discovered how much I love Olivia, the main character. I really loved the secondary characters in this one. My favorites in the book are very strong women, yet they've got some definite flaws. In other words, they're just like us...not perfect!
I highly recommend this book to all lovers of historical cozy mystery books! It's an enjoyable, quick read, and you'll be captivated by it!
February 25, 2021
DEADLY DARKNESS by Kate Parker
The Sixth Deadly Mystery
As England grows ever closer to war, newlywed Olivia Redmond finds herself searching the countryside for lights during a blackout drill instead of canoodling with her new husband. When she sees illumination coming from a local manor house she, her husband, and Sir John discover the murdered body of the patriarch of the house, a venerated explorer. Suspicions abound as more is discovered about the dead baronet, including his ties to Germany and the fact that no one in the family is upset by his demise. Dreams of a romantic honeymoon are dashed as Olivia gets further enmeshed in the investigation. Will she be able to sort through the treacherous machinations of a killer, or will she become the next victim?
It's July 1939 and everything is tinged by darkness, not only the night sky. Olivia and Adam's wedding is a joyous event, despite the baronet trying to prevent the use of the church and the behavior of Olivia's father. Yet the knowledge that at any moment Captain Adam Redmond will be sent off to war dampens that joy. In Sir Rupert we have a despicable victim. Reputably a great explorer, readers soon discover how vile he actually was. Suspects are many and investigation leads to several previous suspicious deaths making for a compelling multilayered mystery.
The historical details, such as blackout drills, add to the rising tension and intensity of the story as well as the inevitability of war. But with darkness there is also light, found here in the antics of the boys along with enough humor to alleviate the gloom. The characters bring the story to life and give it heart. It's wonderful seeing how the they grow and adapt as the series continues. I love Olivia, her strength, her determination, and her ability to give a good put down when necessary.
DEADLY DARKNESS takes the ominous threat of looming war and combines it with a complex mystery complete with spies, Arctic exploration, and Nazis to make an outstanding atmospheric novel.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
The Sixth Deadly Mystery
As England grows ever closer to war, newlywed Olivia Redmond finds herself searching the countryside for lights during a blackout drill instead of canoodling with her new husband. When she sees illumination coming from a local manor house she, her husband, and Sir John discover the murdered body of the patriarch of the house, a venerated explorer. Suspicions abound as more is discovered about the dead baronet, including his ties to Germany and the fact that no one in the family is upset by his demise. Dreams of a romantic honeymoon are dashed as Olivia gets further enmeshed in the investigation. Will she be able to sort through the treacherous machinations of a killer, or will she become the next victim?
It's July 1939 and everything is tinged by darkness, not only the night sky. Olivia and Adam's wedding is a joyous event, despite the baronet trying to prevent the use of the church and the behavior of Olivia's father. Yet the knowledge that at any moment Captain Adam Redmond will be sent off to war dampens that joy. In Sir Rupert we have a despicable victim. Reputably a great explorer, readers soon discover how vile he actually was. Suspects are many and investigation leads to several previous suspicious deaths making for a compelling multilayered mystery.
The historical details, such as blackout drills, add to the rising tension and intensity of the story as well as the inevitability of war. But with darkness there is also light, found here in the antics of the boys along with enough humor to alleviate the gloom. The characters bring the story to life and give it heart. It's wonderful seeing how the they grow and adapt as the series continues. I love Olivia, her strength, her determination, and her ability to give a good put down when necessary.
DEADLY DARKNESS takes the ominous threat of looming war and combines it with a complex mystery complete with spies, Arctic exploration, and Nazis to make an outstanding atmospheric novel.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
April 30, 2021
The Deadly series is delightfully entertaining and difficult to put down. With so many suspects and murders (past and present), the story is filled with hidden identities, motives, and opportunities. While I did enjoy the latest read, there were three elements which I felt were questionable:
1) So near WWII, it is a bit difficult to believe the naivety of DI Parsons or his lack of consideration for military assistance and perspective at this precise juncture.
2) There were tons of characters, many of which had the same last name. Perhaps fewer characters to track would be helpful as I am uncertain all were necessary.
3) Key players of former novels in the series made a minor appearance or none at all which was a bit surprising. The continual distance between father and daughter can pass as his character did play a small role. Understandably, Sir Malcom would not be at the wedding but no mention of Sir Henry or Olivia's best friend were a little puzzling.
1) So near WWII, it is a bit difficult to believe the naivety of DI Parsons or his lack of consideration for military assistance and perspective at this precise juncture.
2) There were tons of characters, many of which had the same last name. Perhaps fewer characters to track would be helpful as I am uncertain all were necessary.
3) Key players of former novels in the series made a minor appearance or none at all which was a bit surprising. The continual distance between father and daughter can pass as his character did play a small role. Understandably, Sir Malcom would not be at the wedding but no mention of Sir Henry or Olivia's best friend were a little puzzling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
not the best of the series
Livy and Adam are married. Rather than enjoy a honeymoon, Livy immediately gets embroiled in a murder. Even after solving the murder of a young man, she won’t let it go. The book was slow and annoying.
Livy and Adam are married. Rather than enjoy a honeymoon, Livy immediately gets embroiled in a murder. Even after solving the murder of a young man, she won’t let it go. The book was slow and annoying.
March 26, 2021
A quick read, not as enjoyable as previous books.
April 9, 2022
Enjoyed this book immensely!
I am an avid fan of murder mysteries, especially those set during the two world wars. All the books in the Deadly Series have been have been most enjoyable, edge of your seat stories that will keep you guessing right up until the end. My only complaint about this book is that I stayed up half the night reading because I needed to find out who the culprit was. I am always sorry when one of these books ends because I really enjoy reading about Olivia's exploits and the dangerous situations she faces. I will be disappointed when this series ends.
I am an avid fan of murder mysteries, especially those set during the two world wars. All the books in the Deadly Series have been have been most enjoyable, edge of your seat stories that will keep you guessing right up until the end. My only complaint about this book is that I stayed up half the night reading because I needed to find out who the culprit was. I am always sorry when one of these books ends because I really enjoy reading about Olivia's exploits and the dangerous situations she faces. I will be disappointed when this series ends.
March 16, 2021
I thought this was the first one. Wrong. And I had read the first one. Oh well, enjoyed it. An aristocrat siding with Germany before the war starts makes for a interesting story. Didn't know the Germans were mining in Greenland.
May 31, 2021
Who killed Sir Rupert? There seems to be no one who didn't have a reason to want him dead...A fact many will admit to, including Olivia. Can she and her new husband Adam solve the mystery before someone else is murdered?
June 1, 2021
Love this series
Keeping you glued to the pages of this book with an imaginative storyline and interesting characters is all down to the excellent writing of Kate Parker. Her Deadly Series is a wonderful way to spend a day relaxing and pampering yourself.
Keeping you glued to the pages of this book with an imaginative storyline and interesting characters is all down to the excellent writing of Kate Parker. Her Deadly Series is a wonderful way to spend a day relaxing and pampering yourself.
August 14, 2021
Good book/series
There are always so many suspects, I never can guess the guilty party but, it is fun to keep reading and see who it is. This series is suberb with just a little bit of everything.
There are always so many suspects, I never can guess the guilty party but, it is fun to keep reading and see who it is. This series is suberb with just a little bit of everything.
November 19, 2021
Better and better!
Kate Parker is an excellent author. The Deadly Series is proof. Each book filled with tension and pathos. You feel the emotions the British people felt knowing they were headed into another "deadly" war with Germany.
Kate Parker is an excellent author. The Deadly Series is proof. Each book filled with tension and pathos. You feel the emotions the British people felt knowing they were headed into another "deadly" war with Germany.
March 28, 2022
A Wedding and Two Funerals
Evil comes in many forms as Olivia finds out. What a honeymoon for Olivia and Adam. Murder, intrigue, and treason are just a few of the things going on in this book.
Evil comes in many forms as Olivia finds out. What a honeymoon for Olivia and Adam. Murder, intrigue, and treason are just a few of the things going on in this book.
June 11, 2022
This is a kind of convoluted story about a British peer who was more than a Nazi sympathizer, and all sorts other deaths that whirl around it, set in WWII, with a lot of lively women characters. Very light but a good travel murder mystery.
Read
February 28, 2021Loved it
This is one of my must read series. The characters are interesting as is the setting. The mysteries are always well done. Cannot wait for the next one!
This is one of my must read series. The characters are interesting as is the setting. The mysteries are always well done. Cannot wait for the next one!
March 6, 2021
Excellent!
I’m a huge fan of mysteries set amid the two World Wars. The Deadly series is one of my favorites. Livvy is a strong, capable woman with a deep appreciation for justice.
I’m a huge fan of mysteries set amid the two World Wars. The Deadly series is one of my favorites. Livvy is a strong, capable woman with a deep appreciation for justice.
Read
March 16, 2021Nice Historical Mystery
I enjoyed this mystery set just before world war II. I was into the story to the very end not sure 'who did it'. I'm glad I took a chance on this book.
I enjoyed this mystery set just before world war II. I was into the story to the very end not sure 'who did it'. I'm glad I took a chance on this book.
May 27, 2021
Fantastic series!
There were plenty of suspects to choose from, a nice amount of history and context. I will be reading them all.
There were plenty of suspects to choose from, a nice amount of history and context. I will be reading them all.
August 27, 2021
This was a very good one! An involved and confusing murder, then two, to solve. Adam and Livy marry on the eve of war and their brief honeymoon is filled with intrigue.
February 20, 2022
Another brilliant and enjoyable read.
March 30, 2022
The “bad guys” were so awful (Nazis) that it detracted from my enjoyment of the story. But another well written and well narrated audiobook in this fine series!
April 29, 2022
Suspense and intrigue make for an exciting read. Pre WW II tension in Britain woven in with the mystery keeps one turning the page. Certainly enjoying the Deadly Series.
November 16, 2022
I enjoyed this book and the various characters. Never expected the ending and kept you guessing as to "who done it"!
February 5, 2023
This was a good read as we gradually move toward WWII. The guilty part is not made known until the end because the evidence isn’t found until the end. Well done!
March 2, 2023
Awful. Over written over wrought characters that I didn’t care about.
October 23, 2023
The author always, in this series, leaves a glaringly obvious clue for the reader, that somehow the heroine cannot see. I guess that is okay.
December 21, 2024
Late Logging this book - but really great book! I am loving this series.
This series is a keeper!
This one had some great plot twists!
This series is a keeper!
This one had some great plot twists!
October 10, 2024
So tone down the hysteria that the heroine gets into when her will is thwarted. She would have been well educated and not know how the justices system works. And thus of the word "Creep" to describe a character? Lots of better words and not one a young English woman would have used.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews