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Exham on Sea Mysteries #4
Murder at the Cathedral
Is her best friend a killer?
The respectable ladies of the Knitters' Guild plan to spring a surprise on the quiet cathedral city, but murder isn't part of the scheme.
The last thing Libby Forest needs is another investigation into a mysterious sudden death. There's enough on her plate already. The fast-growing cake and chocolate business takes all her time, her apprentice has problems, and even Bear, her beloved dog, is determined to create havoc.
She'd like to leave detection to the police, but the prime suspect begs for help and once more Libby takes on the role of amateur sleuth.
The respectable ladies of the Knitters' Guild plan to spring a surprise on the quiet cathedral city, but murder isn't part of the scheme.
The last thing Libby Forest needs is another investigation into a mysterious sudden death. There's enough on her plate already. The fast-growing cake and chocolate business takes all her time, her apprentice has problems, and even Bear, her beloved dog, is determined to create havoc.
She'd like to leave detection to the police, but the prime suspect begs for help and once more Libby takes on the role of amateur sleuth.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published October 24, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 16, 2017
This is fourth book in the series and we have pretty much moved past Libby's late husband and his issues and she is enjoying her relationship with Max and Bear. Mandy is growing up and making choices which Libby questions. When a visiting researcher is killed at the cathedral Libby's friend begs her to help investigate. She isn't sure she wants to join Max's in a private investigation scheme, she isn't sure she wants to join Max in Holy Matrimony. When the police chief's girlfriend's house burns down; with her in it, Libby tries to figure out how the two cases could be related?
December 6, 2025
Hard to keep interest in this one. The ending felt rushed and disjointed. Not one of my favorite works from this author.
February 6, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book. I liked Libby and Max. Can’t wait to read more books by Frances Evesham. Highly recommend
March 31, 2019
Libby's business is blooming, leaving her not much time to sleuthing; she only steps in when her friend becomes a suspect.
With "Murder at the Cathedral", Frances Evesham has created a nicely woven suspense story with local flair and a touch of romance. The story comprises a broad variety of lovingly elaborated characters with sufficient depth and interesting interactions to solve the murder cases. This book intensified my feeling of being home, an invisible inhabitant of Exham on Sea. I was as keen on solving the crimes as Libby herself. I had a great time reading "Murder at the Cathedral" – it is a very enjoyable read. I was drawn into the story right away, enjoying the Exham on Sea flair. Libby, Mandy, Fuzzy and Bear, as well as Max are likeable characters – I am looking forward to reading more about them and the mysteries they are going to face.
This is for you if you like shorter reads, female sleuths, cosy suspense, pets and seaside towns, and the Midsomer Murders.
A suspenseful easy read in a series to watch out for.
Highly recommended.
With "Murder at the Cathedral", Frances Evesham has created a nicely woven suspense story with local flair and a touch of romance. The story comprises a broad variety of lovingly elaborated characters with sufficient depth and interesting interactions to solve the murder cases. This book intensified my feeling of being home, an invisible inhabitant of Exham on Sea. I was as keen on solving the crimes as Libby herself. I had a great time reading "Murder at the Cathedral" – it is a very enjoyable read. I was drawn into the story right away, enjoying the Exham on Sea flair. Libby, Mandy, Fuzzy and Bear, as well as Max are likeable characters – I am looking forward to reading more about them and the mysteries they are going to face.
This is for you if you like shorter reads, female sleuths, cosy suspense, pets and seaside towns, and the Midsomer Murders.
A suspenseful easy read in a series to watch out for.
Highly recommended.
July 11, 2020
Yarn bombing! Some folks get excited about the side story regarding Libby and her personal life (interesting enough, I guess) but I REALLY like the publicity given to the yarn bombing! The mystery was well done with just the right amount of plot twists, danger, and red herrings (including a colleague of Max who in investigating thefts for the Antiquarian Book Society). Great read!
Jennifer M. Dixon is an enthusiastic narrator whose distinctive voices are quite good.
Jennifer M. Dixon is an enthusiastic narrator whose distinctive voices are quite good.
February 12, 2017
The latest in the series, Murder in the Cathedral sees Libby not only pursuing her twins skills of cooking and detecting, but also learning to knit - a bit, anyway. There is the usual great cast of characters, including old favorites Mandy and the wonderful Bear; and it's nice to see Libby and Max continuing to develop their relationship. I didn't guess the culprit, although on reflection, all the clues were there. Highly recommended as a 'curl up in front of the fire on a grey Sunday afternoon' book.
February 12, 2017
The book I’ve been waiting for. I adore all previous three books of the series. I love the characters, and the town where the stories took place.
The fourth instalment of this series is as enjoyable as the previous books. This time, Libby was not planning to get involved in the murder investigation, but our beloved amateur sleuth just couldn’t resist to dig deeper. There were twist and turn, surprises at every turn, heart-warming scenes, a bit of suspense, and of course a whole lot of mystery.
I have to admit that I’m a big fan of Agatha Christie, and Frances Evesham’s Exham on Sea Mysteries really satisfy my thirst on books like Agatha’s. Well, you could say that in some aspects I like Frances’ books even better, because she put romance scenes for the main characters. I love good romance as much as I love good mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
The fourth instalment of this series is as enjoyable as the previous books. This time, Libby was not planning to get involved in the murder investigation, but our beloved amateur sleuth just couldn’t resist to dig deeper. There were twist and turn, surprises at every turn, heart-warming scenes, a bit of suspense, and of course a whole lot of mystery.
I have to admit that I’m a big fan of Agatha Christie, and Frances Evesham’s Exham on Sea Mysteries really satisfy my thirst on books like Agatha’s. Well, you could say that in some aspects I like Frances’ books even better, because she put romance scenes for the main characters. I love good romance as much as I love good mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
May 24, 2019
Libby gets in deep and Mandy has a few problems
First a murder at the Cathedral, then a fire, a meeting with several strangers and a missing cat. Libby has a lot to deal with in this book.
Max pops in and out. Discussions on haunted houses, a yarn bombing and Joe (max's policeman son) making several appearances.
It was a fun read. There is a lot happening but the story flowed well not losing sight of the murder. Figuring it out was a mine field for Libby with many factors muddying the waters.
The story was hard to put down and was a joy to read.
Looking forward to the next one.
First a murder at the Cathedral, then a fire, a meeting with several strangers and a missing cat. Libby has a lot to deal with in this book.
Max pops in and out. Discussions on haunted houses, a yarn bombing and Joe (max's policeman son) making several appearances.
It was a fun read. There is a lot happening but the story flowed well not losing sight of the murder. Figuring it out was a mine field for Libby with many factors muddying the waters.
The story was hard to put down and was a joy to read.
Looking forward to the next one.
October 26, 2020
A little formulaic
This series started well but became formulaic. The lead characters became complacent and stereotypical. How can someone with no cookery qualifications end up running a successful business? Even her late husband and children are part of the somewhat predictable plots. Sadly like the destination of many of these cozy series this one led me to bland oblivion.
This series started well but became formulaic. The lead characters became complacent and stereotypical. How can someone with no cookery qualifications end up running a successful business? Even her late husband and children are part of the somewhat predictable plots. Sadly like the destination of many of these cozy series this one led me to bland oblivion.
November 26, 2017
okay - not great
Read
March 28, 2018Again thrilling and easy reading. Lots of twists and turns and surprise at the end. Would recommend reading all the books in the series.
December 11, 2018
Dr. Giles Temple (PhD) the Wells Cathedral librarian had to make sure all the 18th century were locked up & accounted for.
They were very rare/valuable.
Crime Scene Do Not Enter tape was everywhere around the library.
Dr. Phillips the head librarian was lying on the floor face up.
Giles had been murdered.
Exham. Mrs. Libby Forest (widow, landlady), brought Angela Miles (Libby’s BFF), back to the cottage she shared with Mandy (apprentice, lodger, panic attacks) & Fuzzy (marmalade cat).
As usual Bear (sheepdog) was guarding the door.
Mandy wanted to open a PI business with Max Ramshore (father, government secret financial branch).
She also had the hots for him.
Libby was headed to the Knitters Guild (Scarves, hats, gloves) meeting.
June, Angela, Ruby, Vera, were in attendance also.
Mrs. Forest (amateur sleuth) showed up also.
Rumor has it Giles (history lecturer) had been seeing Mrs. Imogen Weir (Dean’s wife, history lecturer).
Chief Inspector Arnold showed up also.
DS Filbert-Smythe went to interview Dean & Mrs. Weir.
Why was Samantha Watson (solicitor) killed?
DS Filbert-Smythe was assigned to the murder case.
Mrs. Marchant’s (mother) cat was missing. Libby put up posters everywhere.
Will the murders be solved & someone brought to justice?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written cozy mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great who-dunnit murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Justkindlebooks; Ainsley Associates; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
They were very rare/valuable.
Crime Scene Do Not Enter tape was everywhere around the library.
Dr. Phillips the head librarian was lying on the floor face up.
Giles had been murdered.
Exham. Mrs. Libby Forest (widow, landlady), brought Angela Miles (Libby’s BFF), back to the cottage she shared with Mandy (apprentice, lodger, panic attacks) & Fuzzy (marmalade cat).
As usual Bear (sheepdog) was guarding the door.
Mandy wanted to open a PI business with Max Ramshore (father, government secret financial branch).
She also had the hots for him.
Libby was headed to the Knitters Guild (Scarves, hats, gloves) meeting.
June, Angela, Ruby, Vera, were in attendance also.
Mrs. Forest (amateur sleuth) showed up also.
Rumor has it Giles (history lecturer) had been seeing Mrs. Imogen Weir (Dean’s wife, history lecturer).
Chief Inspector Arnold showed up also.
DS Filbert-Smythe went to interview Dean & Mrs. Weir.
Why was Samantha Watson (solicitor) killed?
DS Filbert-Smythe was assigned to the murder case.
Mrs. Marchant’s (mother) cat was missing. Libby put up posters everywhere.
Will the murders be solved & someone brought to justice?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written cozy mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great who-dunnit murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Justkindlebooks; Ainsley Associates; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
July 26, 2023
The quality of these books has gone severely downhill. The series started out wobbly, but I still enjoyed it so I continued. The previous book, however, was too flimsy for me to ignore, and now this book was even worse. The problem is that they’re just too short. And in this book, important things happened before the book started but there’s no real lead in and they’re barely touched on. It makes me feel cut off from the characters and it was really only the characters that kept me going before.
I loved how Libby was starting her own baking business before. She was setting off on her own to become independent and self-sufficient. She loves baking etc. But now that’s barely a side note and Max is pushing her to be his partner in a sleuthing business. Except what does he do? Nothing. So she’s basically pushing her dream aside to work on a dream he’s concocted, except he’s not helping like he said he would.
Their relationship was trying, vaguely, to bloom before and now suddenly it’s fully grown, but we never actually see it, nor have we seen it develop.
Real clues are never given for the reader to figure out who the murderer is, though I always still try anyway. But this time I felt so disconnected and bored with the flimsy story that I didn’t even bother giving it a single thought. It’s like a house built with matchsticks and too few of them at that. One puff and it all falls down. And don’t even get me started on the constant info dumps. People deliberately set up in situations specifically to give Libby info. It was all very mechanical and forced.
The author should’ve put a lot more time and effort into fleshing this out and making clue-getting more natural.
As for the narrator in the audiobook, her voices are starting to blend together, and she can’t do a Southern accent to save her life. More and more often, it would sound like she was simply reading and trying to finish the project.
I loved how Libby was starting her own baking business before. She was setting off on her own to become independent and self-sufficient. She loves baking etc. But now that’s barely a side note and Max is pushing her to be his partner in a sleuthing business. Except what does he do? Nothing. So she’s basically pushing her dream aside to work on a dream he’s concocted, except he’s not helping like he said he would.
Their relationship was trying, vaguely, to bloom before and now suddenly it’s fully grown, but we never actually see it, nor have we seen it develop.
Real clues are never given for the reader to figure out who the murderer is, though I always still try anyway. But this time I felt so disconnected and bored with the flimsy story that I didn’t even bother giving it a single thought. It’s like a house built with matchsticks and too few of them at that. One puff and it all falls down. And don’t even get me started on the constant info dumps. People deliberately set up in situations specifically to give Libby info. It was all very mechanical and forced.
The author should’ve put a lot more time and effort into fleshing this out and making clue-getting more natural.
As for the narrator in the audiobook, her voices are starting to blend together, and she can’t do a Southern accent to save her life. More and more often, it would sound like she was simply reading and trying to finish the project.
March 24, 2017
4.5*
Libby Forrest and her friend Angela Miles are enjoying coffee and a chat in Wells Cathedral café. Angela is a volunteer guide at the cathedral. They unintentionally witnessing an argument between Libby’s lodger, Mandy and her boyfriend, Steve who is Angela’s nephew. As Mandy storms out Angela’s phone rings. There’s been a murder…..
Giles Temple, a historian, has been researching at the cathedral library and was found that morning by Dr Phillips, the librarian. Libby is determined not to involve herself in another investigation. She is busy organising her son’s wedding, her own business and her plans to set up a private investigation service with Max Ramshore. Not only that, she had found herself agreeing to marry Max as well and was getting cold feet about giving up her independence.
Libby’s curiosity gets the better of her, and along with the desire to help and support her friend, she couldn’t resist and is drawn into the investigation regardless of her other commitments, getting involved in a ‘yarn bombing’ knitting circle in the process.
These are enjoyable fun reads, written well and easy to read with eccentric and quirky characters I can’t help but like. Libby especially is engaging and believable. I learned something new too, having never heard of chained libraries before. The characters continue to evolve and the storylines are getting better all the time. And another great cover image. Everything necessary for a cozy murder mystery is included; unexpected twists, intrigue, some suspense and touching scenes, not to mention a bit of romance. I love the locale, especially as I’m familiar with areas where the action takes place. The plot held my interest to the end and, of course, last but no means least there’s Bear!
I chose to read and review Murder at the Cathedral based on an ARC supplied by the author/publisher.
Libby Forrest and her friend Angela Miles are enjoying coffee and a chat in Wells Cathedral café. Angela is a volunteer guide at the cathedral. They unintentionally witnessing an argument between Libby’s lodger, Mandy and her boyfriend, Steve who is Angela’s nephew. As Mandy storms out Angela’s phone rings. There’s been a murder…..
Giles Temple, a historian, has been researching at the cathedral library and was found that morning by Dr Phillips, the librarian. Libby is determined not to involve herself in another investigation. She is busy organising her son’s wedding, her own business and her plans to set up a private investigation service with Max Ramshore. Not only that, she had found herself agreeing to marry Max as well and was getting cold feet about giving up her independence.
Libby’s curiosity gets the better of her, and along with the desire to help and support her friend, she couldn’t resist and is drawn into the investigation regardless of her other commitments, getting involved in a ‘yarn bombing’ knitting circle in the process.
These are enjoyable fun reads, written well and easy to read with eccentric and quirky characters I can’t help but like. Libby especially is engaging and believable. I learned something new too, having never heard of chained libraries before. The characters continue to evolve and the storylines are getting better all the time. And another great cover image. Everything necessary for a cozy murder mystery is included; unexpected twists, intrigue, some suspense and touching scenes, not to mention a bit of romance. I love the locale, especially as I’m familiar with areas where the action takes place. The plot held my interest to the end and, of course, last but no means least there’s Bear!
I chose to read and review Murder at the Cathedral based on an ARC supplied by the author/publisher.
October 3, 2025
This series is as close as you'll ever get if someone asks you for a series that defines cosy crime! I've read the first four in the series and it does feel as if they are written to order. A middle aged divorced woman moves to a new small town to make a fresh start. Tick. The woman sets up in business making cakes and chocolates so plenty of opportunities for tea, cakes and chocolates! Tick. Woman meets attractive and rich divorced man so romantic opportunities too! Tick. And so it goes. The books are easy escapist reading and there's naught wrong with that. There is development through the books though I'm sure if you've read none you could choose any and be able to pick up who's who and what's what without too much difficulty. My one gripe is that the quality of the proof reading is so poor. Misspelling, words misplaced, punctuation awry . I think many publishers now don't employ experienced proof readers and perhaps much is done through AI but when you're buying books at the market price you don't expect quite so many flaws.
February 7, 2023
What can I say, this one kept me guessing until the end. When Libby's friend Angela comes under suspicion in a murder at the cathedral, she is hot on the case and even more so when she wonders if Mandy, her young assistant and roomer, might be the culprit in a second murder. With the help of her friend Max Ramshore, and a few others, Libby is determined to find the real killer or killers. I enjoyed this one because I didn't pick up on any vibes at all as to who the killer might be until they were revealed in the end. Great storyline for this one, which keeps you guessing right up to the end.
January 23, 2019
My second read in this Series, having enjoyed Book 1 back in 2017 ..
This is Book 4 .. the crime element is again meatier than a Cozy Crime story, the plot is well worked out and believable - which I liked .. Just enough smoke and mirrors to keep you guessing ..
It took me longer to get into the characters this time, mainly because of the time between the two reads, but also because I've not read books 2&3, and the personali lives have moved along ..
Loving the Somerset location and will be looking out for more in the Series ..
My Score 3.5 Stars ..
This is Book 4 .. the crime element is again meatier than a Cozy Crime story, the plot is well worked out and believable - which I liked .. Just enough smoke and mirrors to keep you guessing ..
It took me longer to get into the characters this time, mainly because of the time between the two reads, but also because I've not read books 2&3, and the personali lives have moved along ..
Loving the Somerset location and will be looking out for more in the Series ..
My Score 3.5 Stars ..
March 26, 2023
This is my 4th Frances Evesham book. I really enjoyed all of them. They are an easy, relaxing read. They also have smaller chapters than usual which is what i like. Its great to see how Libbys relationship with Max is growing and her bakery business is booming. It is a cosy read which is based around a cosy village, where characters apear in each novel. I really enjoyed the cosy reads of Frances Evesham and i would highly recommend.
November 5, 2020
Another of these murder mysteries set in Somerset. This time the murder happens in Wells Cathedral. I have visited Wells Cathedral on several occasions, it is truly beautiful, the scissor arches are amazing.
Quite a good plot but I think it was a bit short, I would have liked more background and perhaps a bit more about what happened next.
Quite a good plot but I think it was a bit short, I would have liked more background and perhaps a bit more about what happened next.
November 5, 2021
A man doing research in the cathedral is strangled with a chain that keeps the valuable books from being taken. Then the opinionated lawyer who looks down on Libby dies when her house burns down. Lots of investigating by Libby and Max, but the conclusion was too rushed and didn't make sense to me. Oh well, the next one will probably be better.
May 20, 2023
Libby is reinventing herself in a seaside village with all kinds of charm and even more quirky characters. Her chocolate making business is thriving, but so is her sleuthing sideline. Her Nosy Parker status has even some of the constabulary seeking out her expertise. Add in a great, lumbering drool of a dog and a love interest with an intriguing past and call me happy!
July 5, 2017
If you're looking for fast cozy mysteries, these are good books to while away the hours. This particular book was not as much to my taste as Murder on the Tor, but I've got another one waiting in the wings that I'll begin in just a few hours, so my yen for entertainment may be fulfilled shortly.
January 6, 2018
Excellent
I stumbled across this series by accident and I am so happy that I did. The plot line is excellent. With each book more information about the characters emerge. Can't wait to read the next book!
I stumbled across this series by accident and I am so happy that I did. The plot line is excellent. With each book more information about the characters emerge. Can't wait to read the next book!
March 20, 2018
I'm sure that my life will
“Who are the other people? Oh, that’s the librarian.” Angela pointed. “The lady in the middle of the picture, next to Giles, is the dean’s wife, Imogen Weir. She works in the library once a week, as I do, but on different days. I don’t know her well.”
“Who are the other people? Oh, that’s the librarian.” Angela pointed. “The lady in the middle of the picture, next to Giles, is the dean’s wife, Imogen Weir. She works in the library once a week, as I do, but on different days. I don’t know her well.”
April 17, 2018
Another good read
I do enjoy these mysteries and the characters. I am not too fond of Libby and Max however; if I were Max I would leave Libby strictly alone. But on the whole really like the books.
I do enjoy these mysteries and the characters. I am not too fond of Libby and Max however; if I were Max I would leave Libby strictly alone. But on the whole really like the books.
December 6, 2020
This time Libby investigates a murder in the library of the cathedral. The murderer even tries to kill Libby a couple of times. A funny little quirk this time is that the local knitting group are planning to do a yarn bombing. Unfortunately Libby isn’t an accomplished knitter but she does join in.
December 29, 2021
This is a fun cozy mystery. A murdered body is found in the Cathedral Library, strangled with a book chain, with a hand knitted scarf around his neck over the chain. Libby's knitting friend Angela is suspected as she had given him the scarf. Libby agrees to do some detecting for her friend. She is also busy trying to find a missing cat and figuring out who burned down the house with the woman in it.
Of course, Libby puts her own life in danger when someone tries to kill her with a church gargoyle and then attack her when she is yarn bombing the neighborhood near the burnt house.
Of course, Libby puts her own life in danger when someone tries to kill her with a church gargoyle and then attack her when she is yarn bombing the neighborhood near the burnt house.
June 23, 2022
Good mystery
I have enjoyed this book very much. Frances Evesham writes with style. She does wonderful characters and the mystery always has lots of twists and turns. I look forward to many more.
I have enjoyed this book very much. Frances Evesham writes with style. She does wonderful characters and the mystery always has lots of twists and turns. I look forward to many more.
December 8, 2023
What a disappointment at the end of this book! Things were going on nicely, the plot developing well and the characters growing.... then wham! Suddenly its over with a rapid conclusion about characters we hardly knew. In my opinion a lazy end.
May 12, 2017
Keeps my interest! Great cozy mystery series. Love the strong relationship between Libby and Max.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews