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The Ham-Hill Murder Mysteries #2
A Racing Murder
The next thrilling Ham-Hill Murder Mystery from bestselling cosy crime author Frances Evesham.
A winning horse. A fierce rivalry. A sudden death.
Belinda Sandford thrills to the cheers of the crowd as her beautiful grey racehorse, ‘Butterfly Charm’, thunders past the finishing post first at Wincanton Racecourse. She feels like the luckiest girl in the world.
But joy soon turns to despair as a stewards’ enquiry overturns the result and awards the race to her long-time rival, Alexandra Deacon.
When Alex is found dead in suspicious circumstances, a host of accusing eyes turn to Belinda and her distraught mother begs Adam Hennessy, her neighbour, retired police officer and publican, to help clear her daughter’s name.
As Adam, and local hotelier Imogen Bishop, dig deep into the murky and powerful undercurrents of the horse racing world, they lay bare the lives and loves of local jockeys, grooms, trainers and owners.
They soon uncover a web of secrets hidden within the spectacular Somerset countryside as they strive to find the killer in time to prevent more murders.
A brand new cosy mystery series from the bestselling author of A Village Murder, perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Betty Rowlands and M.C. Beaton.
A winning horse. A fierce rivalry. A sudden death.
Belinda Sandford thrills to the cheers of the crowd as her beautiful grey racehorse, ‘Butterfly Charm’, thunders past the finishing post first at Wincanton Racecourse. She feels like the luckiest girl in the world.
But joy soon turns to despair as a stewards’ enquiry overturns the result and awards the race to her long-time rival, Alexandra Deacon.
When Alex is found dead in suspicious circumstances, a host of accusing eyes turn to Belinda and her distraught mother begs Adam Hennessy, her neighbour, retired police officer and publican, to help clear her daughter’s name.
As Adam, and local hotelier Imogen Bishop, dig deep into the murky and powerful undercurrents of the horse racing world, they lay bare the lives and loves of local jockeys, grooms, trainers and owners.
They soon uncover a web of secrets hidden within the spectacular Somerset countryside as they strive to find the killer in time to prevent more murders.
A brand new cosy mystery series from the bestselling author of A Village Murder, perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Betty Rowlands and M.C. Beaton.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2021
422 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
June 20, 2021
A Racing murder is the second book in Frances Evesham's new series called the Ham-Hill Murder Mysteries. If you are a fan of her Exham-on-Sea series or just like books set in small English towns, this is a book for you.
The protagonists/amateur sleuths (in Agatha Christie's Miss Marple style) are Imogen Bishop, the owner of small hotel, and her friend Adam Hennessey, a former police officer who runs the local pub in the village of Low Hembrow in South Somerset.
We join the villagers as they watch a horse race, which is unexpectedly won by a new horse Butterfly Charm. Then, there is a controversy, as the Steward Committee looks into what happened on the last stretch of the race and decides that the winning jockey Belinda Sandford obstructed the progress of another jockey, Alex Deacon, who had to pull back and came in second. Belinda isn't fined, but Alex (who isn't exactly a likeable character) is given the first place by the Committee. While Belinda is trying to forget what happened, learn from her mistake and move on, Alex is found dead, and, naturally, the police and a lot of other people suspect Belinda, who had a motive. Belinda's mother Diana is desperate to help her young, inexperienced girl.
The mystery was really absorbing and it was fascinating to get this glimpse into the world I had known very little about: stables, horse trainers, grooms, horse syndicates and, of course, jockey rivalry. I didn't guess the identity of the murderer (actually, it came as a complete surprise, as it was the person you would suspectthe least), but I really enjoyed Adam and Imogen's investigation. Both sleuths have likeable personalities and complement each other with their different life experiences. Adam's police background and connections also come in handy. Imogen and Adam are helped by Steph, a local journalist, and Daniel, a painter, both of whom are Imogen's old school friends. There is a bit of romance on the horizon, but, first and foremost, this is a cozy mystery. There's a whole range of secondary characters, as you would expect in a small town setting where everyone knows everyone and gossip is a national sport. The village of Low HemBrow has a lovely community and is a great setting for this series.
The book is well-written with several unexected twists and a lot of attention to details. I was thoroughly entertained and I would like to continue with the series.
Thank you to Rachel from Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the review copy, provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
The protagonists/amateur sleuths (in Agatha Christie's Miss Marple style) are Imogen Bishop, the owner of small hotel, and her friend Adam Hennessey, a former police officer who runs the local pub in the village of Low Hembrow in South Somerset.
We join the villagers as they watch a horse race, which is unexpectedly won by a new horse Butterfly Charm. Then, there is a controversy, as the Steward Committee looks into what happened on the last stretch of the race and decides that the winning jockey Belinda Sandford obstructed the progress of another jockey, Alex Deacon, who had to pull back and came in second. Belinda isn't fined, but Alex (who isn't exactly a likeable character) is given the first place by the Committee. While Belinda is trying to forget what happened, learn from her mistake and move on, Alex is found dead, and, naturally, the police and a lot of other people suspect Belinda, who had a motive. Belinda's mother Diana is desperate to help her young, inexperienced girl.
The mystery was really absorbing and it was fascinating to get this glimpse into the world I had known very little about: stables, horse trainers, grooms, horse syndicates and, of course, jockey rivalry. I didn't guess the identity of the murderer (actually, it came as a complete surprise, as it was the person you would suspectthe least), but I really enjoyed Adam and Imogen's investigation. Both sleuths have likeable personalities and complement each other with their different life experiences. Adam's police background and connections also come in handy. Imogen and Adam are helped by Steph, a local journalist, and Daniel, a painter, both of whom are Imogen's old school friends. There is a bit of romance on the horizon, but, first and foremost, this is a cozy mystery. There's a whole range of secondary characters, as you would expect in a small town setting where everyone knows everyone and gossip is a national sport. The village of Low HemBrow has a lovely community and is a great setting for this series.
The book is well-written with several unexected twists and a lot of attention to details. I was thoroughly entertained and I would like to continue with the series.
Thank you to Rachel from Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the review copy, provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
June 15, 2021
A Racing Murder is the second instalment in The Ham Hill Murder Mysteries series set in Somerset. Belinda Sandford and Alexandra Deacon are both female jockeys about to take part in their first-ever professional horse race against one another at Wincanton Racecourse. Belinda is an up and coming rider on her stunning two-year-old grey racehorse Butterfly Charm owned in part by her mother and by two other wealthy couples. Being her debut race, no one expects her to be victorious with the odds set at 25-1 against her rival, and the favourite, riding Seasons Greetings. But much to everyone’s surprise Belinda is first past the post and claims the win at the very last moment from right under Alex’s nose, however, the Steward’s Enquiry conducted afterwards decides that Belinda purposefully impeded her rival’s progress by cutting directly in front of her so she is rightly disqualified and Alex is declared the winner. While everyone heads off for a well-earned drink at the Streamside they are informed that Alex has been found dead at the stables after the race and naturally suspicion falls on Belinda. Diane, Belinda’s mother, is inconsolable, so she enlists the help of Adam Hennessey, the proprietor of The Plough public house and an ex-detective chief inspector, to prove her daughter's innocence.
Found with her head in a horse trough, Adam and Imogen Bishop work to investigate while calling in some favours from friends including forensic pathologist James who establishes her cause of death. But was her death an accident or murder? This is a riveting, captivating and tension-filled cosy mystery featuring a cast of characters who almost feel like old friends set against the backdrop of a chocolate-box, picture-perfect village akin to Midsomer. It's a charming, lighthearted and immersive read right from the beginning and there's never a dull moment or a point when the story slows. The lives of the local racing community come under scrutiny this time with jockeys, owners, riders, groomers and trainers and their private lives being brought under the microscope. This is comfort reading at its absolute finest, and I raced through it in a single sitting. Every aspect helps make this the brilliant and absorbing read that it is - the loveable recurring characters, the gossiping, eccentric locals, a touch of romance, a sterling mystery and of course the star of the show - Harley the pooch. A delightful, scintillating addition to the series which will not disappoint long-time fans or newcomers. Thoroughly engrossing entertainment and a welcome reprieve from daily life for a few hours. Highly recommended.
Found with her head in a horse trough, Adam and Imogen Bishop work to investigate while calling in some favours from friends including forensic pathologist James who establishes her cause of death. But was her death an accident or murder? This is a riveting, captivating and tension-filled cosy mystery featuring a cast of characters who almost feel like old friends set against the backdrop of a chocolate-box, picture-perfect village akin to Midsomer. It's a charming, lighthearted and immersive read right from the beginning and there's never a dull moment or a point when the story slows. The lives of the local racing community come under scrutiny this time with jockeys, owners, riders, groomers and trainers and their private lives being brought under the microscope. This is comfort reading at its absolute finest, and I raced through it in a single sitting. Every aspect helps make this the brilliant and absorbing read that it is - the loveable recurring characters, the gossiping, eccentric locals, a touch of romance, a sterling mystery and of course the star of the show - Harley the pooch. A delightful, scintillating addition to the series which will not disappoint long-time fans or newcomers. Thoroughly engrossing entertainment and a welcome reprieve from daily life for a few hours. Highly recommended.
December 8, 2022
This might be described as a jolly read except that the subject is murder. Adam Hennesey former police officer and now publican and his group of amateur sleuths are galvanized into action when a distraught mother asks Adam to help save her daughter, an up and coming jump jockey, from a murder charge. The action revolves around the small thriving Somerset village and the nearby Wincanton race course. The whole episode is resolved at the village Fair.
Some good characters, Adam the rather shy ex-detective and now landlord of the village pub, and his love interest Steph together with Imogen and the artist Dan. Will they all become members of a racehorse syndicate? Where will the next case lead them?
Not too serious and is a lively read on a cold winter's evening. 4 stars.
Some good characters, Adam the rather shy ex-detective and now landlord of the village pub, and his love interest Steph together with Imogen and the artist Dan. Will they all become members of a racehorse syndicate? Where will the next case lead them?
Not too serious and is a lively read on a cold winter's evening. 4 stars.
June 16, 2021
It is years since I last read a book concerning shenanigans revolving around race course events and I’m so glad that I jumped at the opportunity to read this one, it is such a great read!
Belinda Sandford is riding ‘Butterfly Charm’ in her first professional race as a jockey and is overjoyed when she is first past the finishing post. Her joy, however, doesn’t last long as her arch rival, Alexandra Deacon, is awarded the win after a stewards’ enquiry. Shortly after Alexandra’s body is found and Belinda is suspected of murdering her. Belinda’s mum asks retired police officer, Adam Hennessy, to prove her daughter is innocent. As Adam, now a publican, and local hotelier Imogen Bishop join forces to investigate they never anticipated uncovering so many secrets but they need to work together to untangle the webs of lies and deception to help prevent any further murders.
This is an intriguing mystery, with great characters and so many potential suspects! The syndicates of horse owners, together with the staff at the local racing stables all involve so many secret relationships that it is difficult to uncover who is telling the truth or lying. There are potential romances, secret affairs and misleading suggestions, too, adding to the mix. It is a well written, engaging and suspense filled read, with a great twist at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and will definitely look out for more by this author in future, including previous one in this series!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
Belinda Sandford is riding ‘Butterfly Charm’ in her first professional race as a jockey and is overjoyed when she is first past the finishing post. Her joy, however, doesn’t last long as her arch rival, Alexandra Deacon, is awarded the win after a stewards’ enquiry. Shortly after Alexandra’s body is found and Belinda is suspected of murdering her. Belinda’s mum asks retired police officer, Adam Hennessy, to prove her daughter is innocent. As Adam, now a publican, and local hotelier Imogen Bishop join forces to investigate they never anticipated uncovering so many secrets but they need to work together to untangle the webs of lies and deception to help prevent any further murders.
This is an intriguing mystery, with great characters and so many potential suspects! The syndicates of horse owners, together with the staff at the local racing stables all involve so many secret relationships that it is difficult to uncover who is telling the truth or lying. There are potential romances, secret affairs and misleading suggestions, too, adding to the mix. It is a well written, engaging and suspense filled read, with a great twist at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and will definitely look out for more by this author in future, including previous one in this series!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
June 9, 2021
Belinda Sandford thrills to the cheers of the crowd as her beautiful grey racehorse, ‘Butterfly Charm’, thunders past the finishing post first at Wincanton Racecourse. She feels like the luckiest girl in the world. But joy soon turns to despair as a stewards’ enquiry overturns the result and awards the race to her long-time rival, Alexandra Deacon. When Alex is found dead in suspicious circumstances, drowned in a horse trough a host of accusing eyes turn to Belinda and her distraught mother begs Adam Hennessy, her neighbour, retired police officer and publican, to help clear her daughter’s name. As Adam, and local hotelier Imogen Bishop who are joined by two of their friends Steph a journalist & Daniel a painter & of course Harley, dig deep into the murky and powerful undercurrents of the horse racing world, they lay bare the lives and loves of local jockeys, grooms, trainers and owners.
This is the second book in the series but is easily read on its own. A very well written page turner that had me engrossed from the start. There were plenty of twists & turns as well as red herrings. The characters had depth & I loved not only Adam & Imogen but also secondary characters plus how the feeling of community is very apparent. There are the undercurrents of attraction & romance. Overall a very good cosy mystery that kept me guessing
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the second book in the series but is easily read on its own. A very well written page turner that had me engrossed from the start. There were plenty of twists & turns as well as red herrings. The characters had depth & I loved not only Adam & Imogen but also secondary characters plus how the feeling of community is very apparent. There are the undercurrents of attraction & romance. Overall a very good cosy mystery that kept me guessing
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 19, 2024
Frances Evesham, v Česku ještě zatím stále ne příliš známá autorka, nás – milovníky klasických detektivek, opět nesmírně potěšila, když jí zde vyšla její druhá kniha s názvem Dostihová vražda.
První díl, Venkovská vražda, jsem přečetla jedním dechem. Zamilovala jsem si tu malebnou britskou vesničku i s jejími podivnými obyvateli, kteří mají tak rádi drby! Jakmile tedy vyšel druhý díl, musela jsem si ho samozřejmě přečíst! Návrat do Lower Hembrow je vždycky tak kouzelný!
Pokud máte rádi svižné tempo a velké dějové spády, pak to nebude kniha pro vás. To je je zkrátka naprosto typická detektivka ála Agatha Christie – jen se děj odehrává v současnosti a hlavní postava Adam nemá, i přes to, že vyřeší každou vraždu, tak dokonalé šedé buňky mozkové jako Poirot.
I přesto vás spíše línější tempo zahřeje na duši. Vesničku i její obyvatelé si zamilujete – jsou prostě všichni sví.
Pokud čekáte nějaký extrémně zamotaný příběh, musím vás zklamat. Dostihová vražda nabízí příjemnou zápletku, ve které se budete postupně dozvídat informace a tak si můžete sami zahrát na detektiva a odhadnout vraha. Já jsem si tipla dobře. Jsem si jistá, že při troše štěstí si dobře tipnete i vy. Je ale pravdou, že svého podezřelého jsem měla až spíše ke konci příběhu. Do té doby jsem nasávala fakta a tvořila si vlastní hypotézy.
Dostihová vražda tedy, podle mého názoru, možná o chlup předčila první díl – Venkovskou vraždu.
Před nedávnem vyšel také třetí díl této série a už si na něj brousím zuby.
Takže pokud jste milovníci klasických detektivek, rozhodně si nenechte tuhle ujít! A začněte hezky prvním dílem, ať si Adama zamilujete stejně jako jsem si ho zamilovala já!
První díl, Venkovská vražda, jsem přečetla jedním dechem. Zamilovala jsem si tu malebnou britskou vesničku i s jejími podivnými obyvateli, kteří mají tak rádi drby! Jakmile tedy vyšel druhý díl, musela jsem si ho samozřejmě přečíst! Návrat do Lower Hembrow je vždycky tak kouzelný!
Pokud máte rádi svižné tempo a velké dějové spády, pak to nebude kniha pro vás. To je je zkrátka naprosto typická detektivka ála Agatha Christie – jen se děj odehrává v současnosti a hlavní postava Adam nemá, i přes to, že vyřeší každou vraždu, tak dokonalé šedé buňky mozkové jako Poirot.
I přesto vás spíše línější tempo zahřeje na duši. Vesničku i její obyvatelé si zamilujete – jsou prostě všichni sví.
Pokud čekáte nějaký extrémně zamotaný příběh, musím vás zklamat. Dostihová vražda nabízí příjemnou zápletku, ve které se budete postupně dozvídat informace a tak si můžete sami zahrát na detektiva a odhadnout vraha. Já jsem si tipla dobře. Jsem si jistá, že při troše štěstí si dobře tipnete i vy. Je ale pravdou, že svého podezřelého jsem měla až spíše ke konci příběhu. Do té doby jsem nasávala fakta a tvořila si vlastní hypotézy.
Dostihová vražda tedy, podle mého názoru, možná o chlup předčila první díl – Venkovskou vraždu.
Před nedávnem vyšel také třetí díl této série a už si na něj brousím zuby.
Takže pokud jste milovníci klasických detektivek, rozhodně si nenechte tuhle ujít! A začněte hezky prvním dílem, ať si Adama zamilujete stejně jako jsem si ho zamilovala já!
January 14, 2022
For me, not as quite as good as the first book in the series but that may be due to the fact that I have no knowledge or interest in horse racing. (I don't read Dick Francis books.)
There's a good murder mystery here that had me guessing up until the end as there did not seem to be much of a motive for any of the suspects. The team of Adam and Imogen from the first book are joined by Steph and Dan to make up a sleuthing foursome which made things more interesting.
Worth a read if you enjoyed the first book in the series.
There's a good murder mystery here that had me guessing up until the end as there did not seem to be much of a motive for any of the suspects. The team of Adam and Imogen from the first book are joined by Steph and Dan to make up a sleuthing foursome which made things more interesting.
Worth a read if you enjoyed the first book in the series.
July 25, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
A Racing Murder is the second book in a murder cozy mystery series by Frances Evesham. Released 15th June 2021, it's 264 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
This is a charming and quaint village cozy series. This installment shows some of the competitive underbelly of steeplechase, greed, money, and the hidden currents of village life. It's an ensemble cast including a publican who's a former police officer, a hotelier with a more-than-average inquisitive nature, and a nice group of supporting characters. The language is clean, there is no graphic sexual content (there's a little light romance, but not objectionably much), and the violence is off-scene and relatively restrained.
The buildup is well done and the denouement and resolution are satisfying. There were a few twists along the way which I didn't anticipate. Although it's the second book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
A Racing Murder is the second book in a murder cozy mystery series by Frances Evesham. Released 15th June 2021, it's 264 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
This is a charming and quaint village cozy series. This installment shows some of the competitive underbelly of steeplechase, greed, money, and the hidden currents of village life. It's an ensemble cast including a publican who's a former police officer, a hotelier with a more-than-average inquisitive nature, and a nice group of supporting characters. The language is clean, there is no graphic sexual content (there's a little light romance, but not objectionably much), and the violence is off-scene and relatively restrained.
The buildup is well done and the denouement and resolution are satisfying. There were a few twists along the way which I didn't anticipate. Although it's the second book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 23, 2025
Excellent.
I really like this series, and all the characters. Especially Harley!
I really like this series, and all the characters. Especially Harley!
January 28, 2026
First 2/3 of book: 1 star
Last 1/3 of book: 4 star
Last 1/3 of book: 4 star
June 18, 2021
Another fine mystery from an author who knows how to create a puzzle!
Belinda Sandford’s heart soars as she is first past the post on Butterfly Charm at her first big race; happiness turns to horror as a Steward’s Enquiry rules against her and the win goes to Alex Deacon, a rival. She thinks things can’t get any worse, until Alex’s body is found and she is under suspicion. Belinda’s mother, Diane, asks former detective turned publican Adam Hennessy for help in clearing her daughter’s name. Adam, in turn, ropes in Imogen Bishop, local hotelier and together they learn more about the racing world than they ever thought possible. But can they clear Belinda?
It didn’t take very long for me to dredge up memories of the first in this series and I knew I was in for a great read! I know practically nothing about the racing world; it’s a long time since I read any Dick Francis books, but knowledge isn’t required to enjoy this fabulous mystery. Nothing is obvious; there are plenty of suspects and no end of people who ‘could’ have been involved in Alex’s demise. With personal relationships intertwined with the investigation, this is a gripping read with lots going on. Did I work out who did what to whom? Not a chance! It came as a complete surprise. Totally enthralling and enjoyable, this is a must read to lovers of good mysteries and one I’m happy to give 4.5*.
Belinda Sandford’s heart soars as she is first past the post on Butterfly Charm at her first big race; happiness turns to horror as a Steward’s Enquiry rules against her and the win goes to Alex Deacon, a rival. She thinks things can’t get any worse, until Alex’s body is found and she is under suspicion. Belinda’s mother, Diane, asks former detective turned publican Adam Hennessy for help in clearing her daughter’s name. Adam, in turn, ropes in Imogen Bishop, local hotelier and together they learn more about the racing world than they ever thought possible. But can they clear Belinda?
It didn’t take very long for me to dredge up memories of the first in this series and I knew I was in for a great read! I know practically nothing about the racing world; it’s a long time since I read any Dick Francis books, but knowledge isn’t required to enjoy this fabulous mystery. Nothing is obvious; there are plenty of suspects and no end of people who ‘could’ have been involved in Alex’s demise. With personal relationships intertwined with the investigation, this is a gripping read with lots going on. Did I work out who did what to whom? Not a chance! It came as a complete surprise. Totally enthralling and enjoyable, this is a must read to lovers of good mysteries and one I’m happy to give 4.5*.
June 9, 2021
Belinda Sandford and Alex Deacon are two young women, aspiring racing jockeys, working for different stables, and racing against each other in their first professional race.
Belinda and her horse cross the finish line first, but Alex claims that Belinda's brief drift to the right before correcting to resume her correct lane caused her to pull up her own horse--that Belinda cheated. After a Stewards' hearing, Alex is declared the winner.
A few hours later, Alex is found dead, drowned in a horse trough.
The local police are investigating, but Belinda's mother, is a nervous, panicky type, and is worried that Belinda will look like the obvious suspect. She asks Adam Hennessey, the retired police detective who owns the local pub, The Plough Inn, to look into it--to clear Belinda's name.
Soon Adam, his friend Imogen Bishop, who owns the local high-end hotel, her possible new love interest, the noted painter Daniel Freeman, and Imogen's friend and Adam's possible new love interest, freelance reporter Steph Aldred, are investigating, sharing resources and clues.
For all of them, it's an introduction to the sometimes strange world of professional horse racing, beyond the casual level of just watching a race. Belinda's mother is a member of the syndicate that own the horse Belinda was riding. Alex was dating a former boyfriend of Belinda's. Alex's uncle by marriage has been using Alex as a great source of racetrack gossip--not necessarily all legitimately acquired. He also took the post-race picture of Belinda and Alex at exactly the right moment, when Alex had been needling Belinda into a state of rage. Belinda kept her lid on, but the picture was explosive.
There are other members of the syndicate, of course--a high-powered, "anything to win" attorney, and a highly-regarded anesthesiologist, and their wives. The attorney seems quite ruthless. The anesthesiologist seems a bit too fond of the young, female jockeys and grooms--but he was at the hospital, called in for an emergency case--right?
It's all very tangled, and the friends are making progress slower than they like. In addition, they're giving each other crossed signals on the potential romantic involvements, as Imogen and Adam, in particular, have painful experiences in their pasts and don't want to get hurt again.
And I see I haven't even mentioned Harley, Imogen's dog, a stray who originally turned up at The Plough Inn, and remains fond of both Imogen and Adam. Harley, I have to say, is a fine dog, of mostly excellent manners, and a true hero.
All of this barely touches on the characters and their relationships, and the amount of believable, satisfying character development that goes on even as they all struggle to solve the case.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Belinda and her horse cross the finish line first, but Alex claims that Belinda's brief drift to the right before correcting to resume her correct lane caused her to pull up her own horse--that Belinda cheated. After a Stewards' hearing, Alex is declared the winner.
A few hours later, Alex is found dead, drowned in a horse trough.
The local police are investigating, but Belinda's mother, is a nervous, panicky type, and is worried that Belinda will look like the obvious suspect. She asks Adam Hennessey, the retired police detective who owns the local pub, The Plough Inn, to look into it--to clear Belinda's name.
Soon Adam, his friend Imogen Bishop, who owns the local high-end hotel, her possible new love interest, the noted painter Daniel Freeman, and Imogen's friend and Adam's possible new love interest, freelance reporter Steph Aldred, are investigating, sharing resources and clues.
For all of them, it's an introduction to the sometimes strange world of professional horse racing, beyond the casual level of just watching a race. Belinda's mother is a member of the syndicate that own the horse Belinda was riding. Alex was dating a former boyfriend of Belinda's. Alex's uncle by marriage has been using Alex as a great source of racetrack gossip--not necessarily all legitimately acquired. He also took the post-race picture of Belinda and Alex at exactly the right moment, when Alex had been needling Belinda into a state of rage. Belinda kept her lid on, but the picture was explosive.
There are other members of the syndicate, of course--a high-powered, "anything to win" attorney, and a highly-regarded anesthesiologist, and their wives. The attorney seems quite ruthless. The anesthesiologist seems a bit too fond of the young, female jockeys and grooms--but he was at the hospital, called in for an emergency case--right?
It's all very tangled, and the friends are making progress slower than they like. In addition, they're giving each other crossed signals on the potential romantic involvements, as Imogen and Adam, in particular, have painful experiences in their pasts and don't want to get hurt again.
And I see I haven't even mentioned Harley, Imogen's dog, a stray who originally turned up at The Plough Inn, and remains fond of both Imogen and Adam. Harley, I have to say, is a fine dog, of mostly excellent manners, and a true hero.
All of this barely touches on the characters and their relationships, and the amount of believable, satisfying character development that goes on even as they all struggle to solve the case.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
June 20, 2021
I absolutely love a mystery set in the world of racing – Dick Francis is one of my all-time favourite authors – so I jumped at the chance to read and review this book, despite the fact that I had not read the first Ham Hill mystery book. The fact that I was new to the series did not matter at all, this book works perfectly well as a standalone, but it did make me want to go back and read A Village Murder, which is the first book.
The book is set in a quaint, rural village in Somerset, as you would expect for a cosy, murder mystery, with picturesque houses, a lovely hotel and snug pub… and all the usual bickering, rivalry and intrigue that seems to abound in such backwaters. I live in a small village in Yorkshire and we never have any murders, but the rest of the plot rings very true as to the goings on in a rural setting. They are always gossip central, and no one can ever keep anything quiet, so the idea that a group of locals could solve a murder through wagging tongues and their personal contacts I find entirely feasible!
I really love the gang of characters that the author has created here, especially Imogen and Adam and the friendship between them. They are very authentic, well-rounded and likeable characters, and I love the way Frances has included intrigue and tension in their personal lives, as well as the murder mystery, to push the plot along. In fact, it is the characterisation in particular that has made me want to go back and read the first book in the series and find out more of their back stories, although there is enough information contained in this book to enable the reader to enjoy this storyline without making that necessary.
The murder plot is gentle, not especially gory, but entertaining and diverting and kept me guessing throughout. I loved the peek inside the world of racing and thought Frances had captured that world very well compared to other books I have read written by people actually involved in it (as I said, I am a fan of the genre, and I come from a town where horse-racing is one of our biggest industries). Frances’s writing is very engaging and extremely easy to read, so the pages just slip by. This is a book you can easily devour in one indulgent afternoon without any strain, and you will probably want to as you race to find out whodunnit.
A great book for fans of M.C. Beaton, Betty Rowlands and other cosy mystery writers. Lovely setting, attractive characters and an enticing and gripping plot, what more can you ask for from a book? Thoroughly enjoyable.
The book is set in a quaint, rural village in Somerset, as you would expect for a cosy, murder mystery, with picturesque houses, a lovely hotel and snug pub… and all the usual bickering, rivalry and intrigue that seems to abound in such backwaters. I live in a small village in Yorkshire and we never have any murders, but the rest of the plot rings very true as to the goings on in a rural setting. They are always gossip central, and no one can ever keep anything quiet, so the idea that a group of locals could solve a murder through wagging tongues and their personal contacts I find entirely feasible!
I really love the gang of characters that the author has created here, especially Imogen and Adam and the friendship between them. They are very authentic, well-rounded and likeable characters, and I love the way Frances has included intrigue and tension in their personal lives, as well as the murder mystery, to push the plot along. In fact, it is the characterisation in particular that has made me want to go back and read the first book in the series and find out more of their back stories, although there is enough information contained in this book to enable the reader to enjoy this storyline without making that necessary.
The murder plot is gentle, not especially gory, but entertaining and diverting and kept me guessing throughout. I loved the peek inside the world of racing and thought Frances had captured that world very well compared to other books I have read written by people actually involved in it (as I said, I am a fan of the genre, and I come from a town where horse-racing is one of our biggest industries). Frances’s writing is very engaging and extremely easy to read, so the pages just slip by. This is a book you can easily devour in one indulgent afternoon without any strain, and you will probably want to as you race to find out whodunnit.
A great book for fans of M.C. Beaton, Betty Rowlands and other cosy mystery writers. Lovely setting, attractive characters and an enticing and gripping plot, what more can you ask for from a book? Thoroughly enjoyable.
October 1, 2021
I’m not really sure how to review this!!!
This is an easy going Cozy Mystery, but despite its gentleness, there’s really no story, no deductive sleuthing and, quite frankly, no point to the whole concept of this series!
It seems strange to say this, but it’s an enjoyable book that doesn’t really live up to its labelling! (Even less so than book one). I don’t like to give spoilers, and yet I also don’t want to be so ambiguous as to why I think that this book doesn’t hit the spot!!
I shan’t be following this series further, but that’s because the conclusions are not what I’m expecting as it’s not what I was led to believe/expect and not in a good way… 🤷🏻♀️
This is an easy going Cozy Mystery, but despite its gentleness, there’s really no story, no deductive sleuthing and, quite frankly, no point to the whole concept of this series!
It seems strange to say this, but it’s an enjoyable book that doesn’t really live up to its labelling! (Even less so than book one). I don’t like to give spoilers, and yet I also don’t want to be so ambiguous as to why I think that this book doesn’t hit the spot!!
I shan’t be following this series further, but that’s because the conclusions are not what I’m expecting as it’s not what I was led to believe/expect and not in a good way… 🤷🏻♀️
April 15, 2022
I really enjoyed the horse racing theme of this book, it’s not one I’ve come across before but resonates with my upbringing and creates a really wonderful universe to get lost in. Better than the first Ham Hill book, with a less tangled plot; instead, one that is intriguing and hooking enough without trying to go way too far. Some glaring continuity errors, but I was willing to overlook them given the quality of the rest.
Read
June 19, 2021I'm not generally a cozy mystery fan but I was drawn to this book because of the racing setting. I love Dick Francis's books. This book doesn't dive so deeply into the racing world. It focuses on a group of friends in a small town in England. The local pub owner is a retired police detective. He was asked to help clear the name of a young jockey when her rival was murdered.
He enlists the help of the hotel owner across the road, a local journalist, and a painter who has been hired to do portraits of some racehorses. Together they look into the crime when the police are going to treat it as an accidental death.
I liked the fact that they acknowledged that they aren't the best detectives. Every time they try to covertly question someone they end up pretty much blowing their cover. They just aren't good at being sneaky.
I also appreciated that the group includes male and female friendships that aren't looking to move into romantic relationships. You don't see enough of that in fiction.
This is the second book of the series but you don't need to read the first in order to understand this one. The background information is well incorporated.
Author Bio:
Frances Evesham is the bestelling author of the hugely successful Exham-on-Sea murder mysteries set in her home county of Somerset, and the Ham-Hill cosy crime series set in South Somerset.
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This review was originally posted on Based On A True Story
May 8, 2021
Alex and Belinda are both young jockeys. They have grown up together and both are horse mad. They are competing in a professional race for the first time and Alex cheats to win. Belinda comes in second. Later that day, Alex is found dead. She drowned in a horse trough.
Belinda is the main suspect.
This is a very well written book.
Imogene is the owner of a fine hotel, Adam is a pub owner and a former policeman, Steph is a successful investigative reporter and Dan is a very famous painter. These 4 people work together to figure out if Alex died accidentally or was she murdered. And then when there are other crimes, the team is busy gathering clues.
The investigation takes them to two different horse trainers. There are a wealthy group of investors who own the horse that Belinda rode in that important race. There are grooms and jockeys who know horses and also know what happens around those horses. And there are all the people who live in the area around the Somerset village.
Ms Evesham has created a well developed plot. The first part was rather slow moving for me, but it was basically creating the atmosphere of the story. The reader becomes a part of the investigation. Facts are introduced, information is shared and we move forward. I admit, the facts were all there, but I was surprised at the eventual outcome.
The 4 investigators are interesting people. All are successful in their own right. But, each of them are normal human beings who have doubts and fears about life and relationships.
Imogene and Adam are very good friends. He helped her when it was thought she might have killed her husband. The two of them work well together at solving some of the puzzles. But, in reality, Adam is the best of the 4. He has that kind of mind. He also has connections in the police force. He made good friends when he was a cop.
I liked getting to know the secondary characters. We see how the rural area works from day to day. There is gossip in the village store. A great deal of gossip in both trainer’s barns. There are lambings that need the attention of anyone around at the time. And most of all there is a strong sense of community. People are willing to do for one another because that is the way things work in the country.
I liked the characters, I liked the mystery and I liked the book.
Ms Evesham is a talented author and she shows that in this story. This is the second book in a series, but it works perfectly well as a stand alone read.
I received this book from the author in the hope of a fair and honest review. I am voluntarily writing this review. All opinions are completely my own.
Belinda is the main suspect.
This is a very well written book.
Imogene is the owner of a fine hotel, Adam is a pub owner and a former policeman, Steph is a successful investigative reporter and Dan is a very famous painter. These 4 people work together to figure out if Alex died accidentally or was she murdered. And then when there are other crimes, the team is busy gathering clues.
The investigation takes them to two different horse trainers. There are a wealthy group of investors who own the horse that Belinda rode in that important race. There are grooms and jockeys who know horses and also know what happens around those horses. And there are all the people who live in the area around the Somerset village.
Ms Evesham has created a well developed plot. The first part was rather slow moving for me, but it was basically creating the atmosphere of the story. The reader becomes a part of the investigation. Facts are introduced, information is shared and we move forward. I admit, the facts were all there, but I was surprised at the eventual outcome.
The 4 investigators are interesting people. All are successful in their own right. But, each of them are normal human beings who have doubts and fears about life and relationships.
Imogene and Adam are very good friends. He helped her when it was thought she might have killed her husband. The two of them work well together at solving some of the puzzles. But, in reality, Adam is the best of the 4. He has that kind of mind. He also has connections in the police force. He made good friends when he was a cop.
I liked getting to know the secondary characters. We see how the rural area works from day to day. There is gossip in the village store. A great deal of gossip in both trainer’s barns. There are lambings that need the attention of anyone around at the time. And most of all there is a strong sense of community. People are willing to do for one another because that is the way things work in the country.
I liked the characters, I liked the mystery and I liked the book.
Ms Evesham is a talented author and she shows that in this story. This is the second book in a series, but it works perfectly well as a stand alone read.
I received this book from the author in the hope of a fair and honest review. I am voluntarily writing this review. All opinions are completely my own.
June 16, 2021
‘A Racing Murder’ is the second book in ‘The Ham Hill Murder Mysteries’ series. I read and loved the first book in the series which is called ‘A Village Murder’. When I heard the next book in the series was due for release, I just knew that I had to grab hold of a copy as soon as I could and hibernate until I had finished reading. I couldn’t wait to start reading so without further ado, I grabbed my Kindle, grabbed a cup of tea and then settled down for what proved to be a cracking afternoon of reading. I loved reading ‘A Racing Murder’ but more about that in a bit.
As soon as I started to read, I felt as though I had been reunited with old friends in the form of Adam Hennessy and Imogen Bishop. Adam is a former police officer who retired a while ago although he has found it hard to leave his former career behind. When a crime has been committed, Adam can’t help but become involved. Adam and Imogen make one fantastic detective duo. Imogen works at a local hotel and has become great friends with Adam. Both Adam and Imogen are really nice people, who are impossible to dislike. That’s what I think anyway.
Within the first five minutes of this book, I just knew that I wasn’t going to be doing a lot for the rest of the day because I wouldn’t be able to put this book down. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single minute of the story. I would pick the book up and become so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly the pages were turning. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Racing Murder’ and I had to say farewell to Adam, Imogen and the rest of the cast. I found ‘A Racing Murder’ to be a gripping read, which certainly kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘A Racing Murder’ is superbly written but that’s true of all of Frances’ books. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. I would say that this is a cozy mystery sort of read and certainly not a story full of blood, guts and gore. For me, this isn’t a particularly fast paced story but then it doesn’t need to be. I love the way that Frances makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the centre of the action. That’s how I feel at any rate.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘A Racing Murder’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
As soon as I started to read, I felt as though I had been reunited with old friends in the form of Adam Hennessy and Imogen Bishop. Adam is a former police officer who retired a while ago although he has found it hard to leave his former career behind. When a crime has been committed, Adam can’t help but become involved. Adam and Imogen make one fantastic detective duo. Imogen works at a local hotel and has become great friends with Adam. Both Adam and Imogen are really nice people, who are impossible to dislike. That’s what I think anyway.
Within the first five minutes of this book, I just knew that I wasn’t going to be doing a lot for the rest of the day because I wouldn’t be able to put this book down. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single minute of the story. I would pick the book up and become so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly the pages were turning. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Racing Murder’ and I had to say farewell to Adam, Imogen and the rest of the cast. I found ‘A Racing Murder’ to be a gripping read, which certainly kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘A Racing Murder’ is superbly written but that’s true of all of Frances’ books. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. I would say that this is a cozy mystery sort of read and certainly not a story full of blood, guts and gore. For me, this isn’t a particularly fast paced story but then it doesn’t need to be. I love the way that Frances makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the centre of the action. That’s how I feel at any rate.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘A Racing Murder’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
December 8, 2021
4.5 Stars
Frances Evesham expertly blends bucolic charm with pulse-racing drama and nail-biting suspense in her delightful cosy mystery, A Racing Murder.
Local hotelier Imogen Bishop has got her hands full at the moment. Her hotel is absolutely packed to the rafters and the entire village can barely contain their excitement over Racing Day at the nearby Wincanton racecourse. The entire community of this charming Somerset village is looking forward to a day spent poring over the Racing Post, betting on their favourites and cheering on Belinda Sandford as she thunders on to victory on her horse Butterfly Charm. Her race is one which everybody watches with baited breath and everybody is delighted that she has pipped her rivals to the post – until a stewards’ enquiry overturns the result and awards the race to her long-time rival Alexandra Deacon. However, Alex’s victory is set to be short-lived as she is found dead in very mysterious circumstances…
With the finger of suspicion pointing squarely at Belinda, her distraught mother turns to former police officer turned publican Adam Hennessy to help clear her daughter’s name. As Adam begins to investigate, Imogen cannot help but offer Adam her assistance and as the two of them begin to dig deep into the world of horse-racing, they discover a murky world of high stakes, secrets and deception. With a killer on the loose waiting for the right moment to strike again, will Adam and Imogen manage to discover who killed Alex? Can they get to the bottom of this complex and twisted mystery? Or are are there further surprises round the corner which will end up derailing Adam and Imogen’s investigation?
Frances Evesham’s terrific cosy mysteries keep going from strength to strength and in A Racing Murder, she has penned an immensely enjoyable page-turner I devoured in a matter of hours. A Racing Murder is packed with red herrings, twists and turns and shocking revelations that will keep readers absolutely riveted to the page.
Adam and Imogen are a fantastic duo readers are simply going to love. Their witty banter, contrasting personalities and brilliant methods of detection are sure to keep readers completely gripped and have them eagerly awaiting the next Ham Hill mystery.
An absolute treat for cosy mystery fans, fans of M C Beaton and Faith Martin will want to add Frances Evesham’s A Racing Murder to their auto-buy list.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Frances Evesham expertly blends bucolic charm with pulse-racing drama and nail-biting suspense in her delightful cosy mystery, A Racing Murder.
Local hotelier Imogen Bishop has got her hands full at the moment. Her hotel is absolutely packed to the rafters and the entire village can barely contain their excitement over Racing Day at the nearby Wincanton racecourse. The entire community of this charming Somerset village is looking forward to a day spent poring over the Racing Post, betting on their favourites and cheering on Belinda Sandford as she thunders on to victory on her horse Butterfly Charm. Her race is one which everybody watches with baited breath and everybody is delighted that she has pipped her rivals to the post – until a stewards’ enquiry overturns the result and awards the race to her long-time rival Alexandra Deacon. However, Alex’s victory is set to be short-lived as she is found dead in very mysterious circumstances…
With the finger of suspicion pointing squarely at Belinda, her distraught mother turns to former police officer turned publican Adam Hennessy to help clear her daughter’s name. As Adam begins to investigate, Imogen cannot help but offer Adam her assistance and as the two of them begin to dig deep into the world of horse-racing, they discover a murky world of high stakes, secrets and deception. With a killer on the loose waiting for the right moment to strike again, will Adam and Imogen manage to discover who killed Alex? Can they get to the bottom of this complex and twisted mystery? Or are are there further surprises round the corner which will end up derailing Adam and Imogen’s investigation?
Frances Evesham’s terrific cosy mysteries keep going from strength to strength and in A Racing Murder, she has penned an immensely enjoyable page-turner I devoured in a matter of hours. A Racing Murder is packed with red herrings, twists and turns and shocking revelations that will keep readers absolutely riveted to the page.
Adam and Imogen are a fantastic duo readers are simply going to love. Their witty banter, contrasting personalities and brilliant methods of detection are sure to keep readers completely gripped and have them eagerly awaiting the next Ham Hill mystery.
An absolute treat for cosy mystery fans, fans of M C Beaton and Faith Martin will want to add Frances Evesham’s A Racing Murder to their auto-buy list.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 17, 2021
Set in the village of Lower Hembrow, local girl Belinda Sandford is riding in her first professional race at Wincanton on Butterfly Charm, a horse shared by her mother Diane, barrister Henry Oxon and his wife Ling, and hospital anaesthetist Magnus Wilson and his wife Laura. The syndicate has opted to stay at The Streamside Hotel owned by Imogen Bishop who inherited it when her father died. Adam Hennessey is an ex DCI from Birmingham who retired early from the police after a raid ended in tragedy and bought The Plough Inn in the village. Old habits die hard though and he just cannot resist dabbling in a mystery. Adam and Imogen are great friends and already have a shared history due to his help in the solving of her husband’s murder the previous year. The race is won by Belinda but a steward’s enquiry drops her down to second place after it was found she impeded the other front runner, Season’s Greetings, ridden by up and coming jockey Alex Deacon from a rival stables. As the owners meet for dinner at the hotel, Imogen hears from Adam that Alex has been discovered dead, drowned in a water trough and the police come to the hotel to speak to Belinda. Suspicion falls on the young jockey in the media and her mother begs Adam to undertake his own investigation. During the Spring Fair committee meeting, Adam, Imogen, journalist Steph (who Adam holds a torch for) and artist Daniel Freeman (who Imogen similarly likes a lot) decide to dig a bit deeper into the death which the press are already labelling a murder. Using Adam’s contacts in the form of DCI Andrews and forensic pathologist James Barton, all the local racing community – grooms, trainer, jockeys and owners – and the secrets they keep come under scrutiny in this charming cosy murder mystery set in a picturesque village in Somerset with a cast of wonderful and sometimes eccentric people, although for me the star of the show has to be Harley the dog. Adam and Imogen make a fantastic detective partnership in this gentle yet totally engrossing story where all the characters are very well described with plenty of background history given where required so this book can easily be enjoyed as a stand alone without needing to read book one first. Highly recommended to lose yourself in a super story you won’t want to put down till you’ve finished. 5*
June 14, 2021
This is the second in the Hamhill Series, and it's a great addition. It's raceday at Wincanton Racecourse. Belinda is going to ride Butterfly Charm in the race. Her father has died, and her mother, Diane is staying at the Streamside Hotel, owned by Imogen Bishop. The syndicate owning Butterfly Charm are all at the racetrack, including Diane, Laura and Magnus Wilson, and Ling and Henry Oxon. This is Belinda's first professional race as a jockey for Leo Murphy's Stable. Her main competition is Alex Deacon on Season's Greetings from Ann Clarkson's stable; both both horse and jockey are more experienced than Belinda. The race is very exciting, with the two girls in the front. Almost at the end, Belinda passes Alex, and comes in first. However, Alex challenges that Alex cheated by coming too close, and caused her to pull up. The stewards declare Alex the winner.
After dinner at the hotel, Adam Hennessy from the Plough Inn across the street arrives to tell Imogen Bishop, the owner at the hotel that there was a death at the race course. Alex Deacon was found with her head in a trough of water in the stable. Of course, Belinda becomes the prime suspect. Adam is asked by Diane to help her find that Belinda is innocent. Adam, Imogen, and their friends Dan and Steph decide to work together. They spend a lot of time interviewing a photographer who took a photo of Alex and Belinda after the race. Dan is doing a painting at Leo's stable and watches and interviews several of the stable hands. They also talk with Belinda. It turns out that Alex had stolen Belinda's boyfriend twice, and that one of the hands was very free with the female stable hands.
However, it's at the Spring Fair in the Hotel garden with all the major players present that things come to a head. In the midst of the crowd, the killer tries to kill again; Imogen is trying to calm things down, and Imogen's dog Harley becomes a hero. The murder is solved, and the two couples become better defined.
After dinner at the hotel, Adam Hennessy from the Plough Inn across the street arrives to tell Imogen Bishop, the owner at the hotel that there was a death at the race course. Alex Deacon was found with her head in a trough of water in the stable. Of course, Belinda becomes the prime suspect. Adam is asked by Diane to help her find that Belinda is innocent. Adam, Imogen, and their friends Dan and Steph decide to work together. They spend a lot of time interviewing a photographer who took a photo of Alex and Belinda after the race. Dan is doing a painting at Leo's stable and watches and interviews several of the stable hands. They also talk with Belinda. It turns out that Alex had stolen Belinda's boyfriend twice, and that one of the hands was very free with the female stable hands.
However, it's at the Spring Fair in the Hotel garden with all the major players present that things come to a head. In the midst of the crowd, the killer tries to kill again; Imogen is trying to calm things down, and Imogen's dog Harley becomes a hero. The murder is solved, and the two couples become better defined.
December 29, 2022
The second Ham Hill Murder Mystery brings back Imogen and Adam, along with regular support and some new characters. We're thrust into the world of horse training and horse racing in this mystery, and I enjoyed the characters and the settings greatly.
One thing I did like about this is that the timeline in the book jumps about a year, which would coincide with the book being published roughly a year after book one. I thought that refreshing, because many series keep the timeline closer together, and we end up with too many crimes occurring to close together. It also gives the characters time to develop more, and we have more recent history to learn and explore.
Shifting the mystery into the world of horse racing also keeps this series fresh, and the characters are learning about horse racing along with the readers. I also, liked that Imogen and Adam are now helped by Dan and Steph. We have a small club working on the mystery, and that made the book more enjoyable. Sometimes too many cooks spoil things, but it improved this book. I think it's because of the way the characters interact in the book, and they all seem to be bring something to the table to assist with the investigation.
And, finally, a point about our main characters, Adam and Imogen. I like them even more in this book. They are written so well. They come across as two new friends, now comfortable with each other, and genuinely happy to see each other happy. I love reading the way they both go through life in this small village. Great characters!
A small thing. I'm not sure why this series is called Ham Hill Murder Mysteries, when the village is not called Ham Hill. The hill is a feature on the local area, not the locality.
One thing I did like about this is that the timeline in the book jumps about a year, which would coincide with the book being published roughly a year after book one. I thought that refreshing, because many series keep the timeline closer together, and we end up with too many crimes occurring to close together. It also gives the characters time to develop more, and we have more recent history to learn and explore.
Shifting the mystery into the world of horse racing also keeps this series fresh, and the characters are learning about horse racing along with the readers. I also, liked that Imogen and Adam are now helped by Dan and Steph. We have a small club working on the mystery, and that made the book more enjoyable. Sometimes too many cooks spoil things, but it improved this book. I think it's because of the way the characters interact in the book, and they all seem to be bring something to the table to assist with the investigation.
And, finally, a point about our main characters, Adam and Imogen. I like them even more in this book. They are written so well. They come across as two new friends, now comfortable with each other, and genuinely happy to see each other happy. I love reading the way they both go through life in this small village. Great characters!
A small thing. I'm not sure why this series is called Ham Hill Murder Mysteries, when the village is not called Ham Hill. The hill is a feature on the local area, not the locality.
June 1, 2021
I really liked this book and it is the second book in the Ham-Hill Murder Mystery series. You do not need to read the first one before reading this one; however, I like to read them in order and read the first one, A Village Murder, which was also a good story.
The story revolves around a horse race at the Wincanton Racecourse after the winner of the race, Belinda Sandford, loses the race after a stewards’ enquiry. This loss results in her rival Alexandra Deacon being declared the winner. After Alex is found dead, Belinda is the main suspect in her death and Belinda’s mother asks Adam Hennessy, a retired police officer and publican, to clear her daughter’s name. Once again, Adam joins forces with Imogen Bishop, who owns a local inn, to solve the crime. This time the also include two of their friends, Daniel and Steph, to help them gather clues to find the murderer.
There are many twists and turns in this story and as you read you will find many suspects. I thought the characters were well written. The struggle Imogene is having reconnecting with Daniel is understandable given the time that has passed since they were together and the failure of her first marriage. I like the friendship between Adam and Imogene and the relationship they have with the dog Harley.
If you haven’t read her Exham-on-Sea murder mystery series, you need to give them a chance because they are really good also.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story revolves around a horse race at the Wincanton Racecourse after the winner of the race, Belinda Sandford, loses the race after a stewards’ enquiry. This loss results in her rival Alexandra Deacon being declared the winner. After Alex is found dead, Belinda is the main suspect in her death and Belinda’s mother asks Adam Hennessy, a retired police officer and publican, to clear her daughter’s name. Once again, Adam joins forces with Imogen Bishop, who owns a local inn, to solve the crime. This time the also include two of their friends, Daniel and Steph, to help them gather clues to find the murderer.
There are many twists and turns in this story and as you read you will find many suspects. I thought the characters were well written. The struggle Imogene is having reconnecting with Daniel is understandable given the time that has passed since they were together and the failure of her first marriage. I like the friendship between Adam and Imogene and the relationship they have with the dog Harley.
If you haven’t read her Exham-on-Sea murder mystery series, you need to give them a chance because they are really good also.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2021
This is the second of the Ham Hill mysteries and, while it works as a stand-alone, you will definitely get to know the characters better by reading them in order. Adam is a pub owner and retired police officer and Imogene owns the local hotel. They are the main investigators, although this time around they have the help of a couple of friends, Steph, a reporter, and Dan, a painter. All four are competent and intelligent and each adds their own skills.
Belinda is the main suspect in the death, and her desperate mother asks for Adam’s help. The local authorities deem the death an accident due to lack of evidence, but the local chief inspector asks Adam to continue looking into the case, not convinced it wasn’t murder.
It turns out there are actually plenty of suspects, although no one has a really good motive. There are the investors who own the horse that Belinda rode. There are the grooms and jockeys, young people who know horses, but who also have on and off relationships with each other.
The mystery itself was well-done. There were several clues, although I’m not sure it was possible to put them together before Adam. I enjoyed all the information about horse racing and the small-town feel. There was plenty of gossip, which always helps cozy investigators.
Overall, A Racing Murder was an enjoyable book. I’ll be looking forward to the next in the series.
Belinda is the main suspect in the death, and her desperate mother asks for Adam’s help. The local authorities deem the death an accident due to lack of evidence, but the local chief inspector asks Adam to continue looking into the case, not convinced it wasn’t murder.
It turns out there are actually plenty of suspects, although no one has a really good motive. There are the investors who own the horse that Belinda rode. There are the grooms and jockeys, young people who know horses, but who also have on and off relationships with each other.
The mystery itself was well-done. There were several clues, although I’m not sure it was possible to put them together before Adam. I enjoyed all the information about horse racing and the small-town feel. There was plenty of gossip, which always helps cozy investigators.
Overall, A Racing Murder was an enjoyable book. I’ll be looking forward to the next in the series.
April 30, 2021
Two young ladies are jockeys in a horse race, one for the very first time. Belinda makes a slight error of judgement and there is a stewards enquiry. On meeting the other jockey Alex, Belinda begins to wonder if she didn't pull her horse up deliberately so as to cause the enquiry which then went in her favour. When Alex is found dead a short while later, all eyes are obviously on Belinda. Imogen runs the village hotel having been a famous garden designer in the past. Adam, a retired detective runs the pub opposite. Both believe that Belinda couldn’t have done such a thing and with a couple of well placed friends set out to find more information about what is really going on in the village having been asked by Belinda's mother to try and clear her name. I really enjoy this type of book. Despite murder as the theme, there is a warmth about this- of the characters and of a village community- one that can go either way- a hot bed of gossip or a supportive community. There are lighthearted moments around Imogen’s dog Harley and some flirtations of romance here and there. Although one of a series this happily stands alone (I hadn’t read the first one). If you enjoy Joy Ellis, Faith Martin etc then you may enjoy this. A wonderful, entertaining, relaxing read.
June 16, 2021
I read "A Village Murder" last year and loved it, I hoped I was going to read soon other stories featuring Adam/Imogen and the quirky characters of this series.
I was very happy to read this book and found it gripping, entertaining and informative as learned something about races and horse syndicates.
It was great to be back to Lower Hembrow and catch up with the characters. There's a lot going on in their life and I was happy to read about their life. I appreciated how the characters were developed and how the romantic side of the story mixed well with the mystery.
The author did a good job in developing interesting and fleshed out characters as they are realistic and likable.
The mystery is complex, full of twists and turns, and the solution came as a surprise.
I can't wait to read the next installment as I loved this one: it's gripping and entertaining, I read it in one afternoon.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I was very happy to read this book and found it gripping, entertaining and informative as learned something about races and horse syndicates.
It was great to be back to Lower Hembrow and catch up with the characters. There's a lot going on in their life and I was happy to read about their life. I appreciated how the characters were developed and how the romantic side of the story mixed well with the mystery.
The author did a good job in developing interesting and fleshed out characters as they are realistic and likable.
The mystery is complex, full of twists and turns, and the solution came as a surprise.
I can't wait to read the next installment as I loved this one: it's gripping and entertaining, I read it in one afternoon.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 28, 2023
An undemanding and pleasant read.
I liked the main characters, Adam and Imogen, and the dog, Harley was delightful, although I felt other characters were less well rounded.
The murder took place 'off page' and we are not given many details about it, so it's an ideal book for those who want to avoid the gruesome and gory. Unfortunately, I felt that the detection was too drawn-out for most of the novel, until the rushed and slightly improbably ending. "Parts of the jigsaw were finally clicking into place...At last he knew what had happened." Except that I don't find the sudden 'moment of truth' believable. It felt too much like an 'I don't know how to end this and I need something dramatic, so I'll have one of the characters find out the truth in the nick of time' style ending that hadn't really been thought through.
The story had enough good points that I'd borrow another in the series from the library, but I wouldn't go out and buy one.
I liked the main characters, Adam and Imogen, and the dog, Harley was delightful, although I felt other characters were less well rounded.
The murder took place 'off page' and we are not given many details about it, so it's an ideal book for those who want to avoid the gruesome and gory. Unfortunately, I felt that the detection was too drawn-out for most of the novel, until the rushed and slightly improbably ending. "Parts of the jigsaw were finally clicking into place...At last he knew what had happened." Except that I don't find the sudden 'moment of truth' believable. It felt too much like an 'I don't know how to end this and I need something dramatic, so I'll have one of the characters find out the truth in the nick of time' style ending that hadn't really been thought through.
The story had enough good points that I'd borrow another in the series from the library, but I wouldn't go out and buy one.
June 19, 2021
A Racing Murder is the second book in the Ham Hill murder mysteries series. This was a new one for me. I have not read the previous book in the series, though I did not feel that this was necessary to get to grips with this story.
The plot was, I thought, a very good one and a new one for me. I don't follow horse racing or know much about it but it isn't wasn't a problem as the story provides the needed information regarding this world. I really liked the plot and the amount of suspects kept me guessing.
The pace of the story was more trot than gallop which I didn't mind in this instance as there was so much mystery to unearth and so much going on.
Frances Evesham has done a good job with this cosy mystery that will appeal to a wide audience.
The plot was, I thought, a very good one and a new one for me. I don't follow horse racing or know much about it but it isn't wasn't a problem as the story provides the needed information regarding this world. I really liked the plot and the amount of suspects kept me guessing.
The pace of the story was more trot than gallop which I didn't mind in this instance as there was so much mystery to unearth and so much going on.
Frances Evesham has done a good job with this cosy mystery that will appeal to a wide audience.
June 20, 2021
The second book in The Ham Hill Murder Mystery series focuses on the horse racing set. Popular in the 1970s and 1980s as a topic for crime and mystery, it was lovely to reacquaint with the horse racing set in this cosy mystery.
When Adam and Imogen are requested to clear a female jockey's name after the suspicious death of a rival, they uncover many secrets and motives. It's like 'Riders' focusing on horse racing rather than showjumping, but a little less racy.
The cosy mystery ethos is immersive reading, with vibrant characters and vivid settings that complement the twisty plot perfectly.
This story is a perfect escape with crime, mystery and a touch of romance.
I received a copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
When Adam and Imogen are requested to clear a female jockey's name after the suspicious death of a rival, they uncover many secrets and motives. It's like 'Riders' focusing on horse racing rather than showjumping, but a little less racy.
The cosy mystery ethos is immersive reading, with vibrant characters and vivid settings that complement the twisty plot perfectly.
This story is a perfect escape with crime, mystery and a touch of romance.
I received a copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
Many thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this cozy mystery.
This book starts about a year after the first one. Adam and Imogene are comfortably ensconced in their businesses in Lower Hembrow. They take a trip to the race track to see two young jockeys in a steeplechase. Shortly after the race, one of the girls is found dead, drowned in a water trough. Adam, as a former police officer, is asked by the mother of the other jockey to investigate the murder, as suspicion is being cast on her daughter. A group is also organized to plan the Spring Fair, to be held at the Streamside Hotel.
The first part of this book was quite talky, introducing lots of new characters, but the action picked up at the latter parts. I enjoyed the small town vibe.
This book starts about a year after the first one. Adam and Imogene are comfortably ensconced in their businesses in Lower Hembrow. They take a trip to the race track to see two young jockeys in a steeplechase. Shortly after the race, one of the girls is found dead, drowned in a water trough. Adam, as a former police officer, is asked by the mother of the other jockey to investigate the murder, as suspicion is being cast on her daughter. A group is also organized to plan the Spring Fair, to be held at the Streamside Hotel.
The first part of this book was quite talky, introducing lots of new characters, but the action picked up at the latter parts. I enjoyed the small town vibe.
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