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Amy Rowlings Mysteries #1
Murder At The Mill
Introducing Twenty-one-year-old Amy Rowlings, a vivacious, quick-witted collector of imported American music, a movie buff and an avid reader of crime fiction.
January 1939 and the residents of the snow-covered streets of a small Kentish town awake to horrific news.
When young Amy Rowlings meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a robbery on the way to work at The Mill, one snowy, January morning, she is blissfully unaware of how much her life is about to change.
She is drawn into the murky world of murder when the body of Edward Handsley is found lying on the floor of the clothing factory. Edward, a libertine, philanderer, the son of George, the factory owner, a young man with many enemies, many of them female.
Bodkin is new to the area and accepts Amy’s offer to provide local knowledge but she soon becomes an invaluable source of information. When Adam Smethwick is arrested for the murder, Amy, a family friend, is convinced of his innocence and sets out to prove that the detective has arrested the wrong man.
Amy befriends Justine, the young, French fiancé of the elderly George, and soon discovers that it was not all sweetness and light in the Handsley family home. Meanwhile, back at the factory, Amy is sure that the foreman, Mr Pilling, has something to hide.
As the investigation proceeds, Amy finds that her burgeoning relationship with Bodkin is pushed to the limits as the detective becomes even more convinced that he has arrested the right man and while Bodkin relies heavily on the facts as they are presented, Amy has a more nuanced approach to solving the crime, born out of her beloved Agatha Christie books
Murder at the Mill is the first book in a gorgeous 1930's cosy crime series .
AMY RETURNS ! - Death at Lychgate: the second Amy Rowlings book is out Christmas 2023
January 1939 and the residents of the snow-covered streets of a small Kentish town awake to horrific news.
When young Amy Rowlings meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a robbery on the way to work at The Mill, one snowy, January morning, she is blissfully unaware of how much her life is about to change.
She is drawn into the murky world of murder when the body of Edward Handsley is found lying on the floor of the clothing factory. Edward, a libertine, philanderer, the son of George, the factory owner, a young man with many enemies, many of them female.
Bodkin is new to the area and accepts Amy’s offer to provide local knowledge but she soon becomes an invaluable source of information. When Adam Smethwick is arrested for the murder, Amy, a family friend, is convinced of his innocence and sets out to prove that the detective has arrested the wrong man.
Amy befriends Justine, the young, French fiancé of the elderly George, and soon discovers that it was not all sweetness and light in the Handsley family home. Meanwhile, back at the factory, Amy is sure that the foreman, Mr Pilling, has something to hide.
As the investigation proceeds, Amy finds that her burgeoning relationship with Bodkin is pushed to the limits as the detective becomes even more convinced that he has arrested the right man and while Bodkin relies heavily on the facts as they are presented, Amy has a more nuanced approach to solving the crime, born out of her beloved Agatha Christie books
Murder at the Mill is the first book in a gorgeous 1930's cosy crime series .
AMY RETURNS ! - Death at Lychgate: the second Amy Rowlings book is out Christmas 2023
185 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2020
72 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Belshaw
36 books43 followersNominated for the Romantic Novelists Association Romantic Thriller Award 2026 for Encore For Murder. Amy Rowlings Golden Age Mystery Series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
March 19, 2021
The thirties were a simpler time. A kinder time, except when someone is murdered. I enjoyed meeting Amy who first appeared in Unspoken as Alice's friend. In Murder at the Mill, Amy's personality came out and shone. I loved her character!
I'm looking forward now to reading The Legacy.
I'm looking forward now to reading The Legacy.
December 12, 2022
This is the first book that I've read by this Author and I have to say I really enjoyed it. I liked the story, the characters, and the setting. Although I guessed who the murderer was early on I did doubt myself a few times throughout. I'll definitely be reading book 2.
For any crime lovers this is a must read. The only thing that stopped me giving five stars was some editing issues, but it didn't take anything away from the story.
For any crime lovers this is a must read. The only thing that stopped me giving five stars was some editing issues, but it didn't take anything away from the story.
December 9, 2020
Trevor Belshaw has a style of writing that makes the reader eager to turn every page. Murder at the Mill is no exception. I was hooked from the start! 1t is 1939 and Amy Rollings is a 21 year old lady that stumbles upon a burglary at her place of work. She becomes involved with a detective Sergeant Bodkin who is new to the area and agrees to Amy helping him find clues. It soon turns out that it is not just a burglary, but a murder has taken place too. Amy relishes her role as an Agatha Christie film and book addict and uses her whodunnit 'skills' to help Sergeant Bodkin solve the murder and the burglary. There are many twists and turns, family arguments, friendships not what they seem, a lot of jealousy, and more besides. If you enjoy reading this genre, you won't be disappointed. I failed to spot who the murderer is - will you? One way to find out! Perfect for a Christmas present or indeed for a cosy evening in. 5 stars.
April 8, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Excellent mystery which keeps you guessing until the very end. Well written, good plot and nice flowing style.
Set in 1939 the story revolves around the murder of the immoral son of the local mill and when a friends is accused of the murder machinist Amy Rowlings turns sleuth to try and find the real killer.
Highly recommended for fans of classic mystery novels in the vain of Agatha Christie.
Excellent mystery which keeps you guessing until the very end. Well written, good plot and nice flowing style.
Set in 1939 the story revolves around the murder of the immoral son of the local mill and when a friends is accused of the murder machinist Amy Rowlings turns sleuth to try and find the real killer.
Highly recommended for fans of classic mystery novels in the vain of Agatha Christie.
July 3, 2022
This one wasnt for me sadly. Struggled to keep my attention, and too much dialogue.
July 6, 2022
★★★★ 3.5 stars (rounded up)
What a delightful little cosy mystery in the style of the Queen of Crime herself, Agatha Christie. We have murder, blackmail, mayhem, old movies and even a little romance. It's all done in such a lighthearted way I felt as though I was a part of the scene myself. I enjoyed the relationship between Amy and Bodkin, their banter and friendship. I also enjoyed Amy's weekly trips to the pictures and loved hearing about some of the films she saw. I particularly enjoyed "The Lady Vanishes" as well, being a huge Hitchcock fan myself. And true to the cosy crime genre, the murder takes place "off stage" without any graphic violence, profanity or explicit sex, making for a refreshing change.
Set in early 1939, we meet Amy Rowlings as she is on her way to work at the garment factory, known as "the mill", where she is a machinist. Her attention is thwarted when there appears to have been a burglary in the buildings opposite, where she gains the eye of Detective Sergeant Bodkin, thus making her late for her shift. Little does she know how much her life is about to change.
Then the following morning she is stopped at the gates along with the other workers. Edward Handsley, the owner's son, has been found dead on the floor of the maintenance room of the factory. Amy is immediately drawn to the crime and is eager to help solve it. As Bodkin is new to the area he welcomes Amy's insight and assistance in providing background information about the area and those likely to be suspects...or not. But the suspect list is long as Edward, who was colloquially known amongst the women as Wandering Handsley, made many enemies quickly with his attitude to both men and women alike.
Amy's assistance proves invaluable as Bodkin calls her her his Miss Marple - a nod to the Queen of Crime herself - and she is an incredibly sharp and quick witted young woman. She has an eye for detail and teams up with Bodkin to solve what thus becomes two murders. When an arrest is made, Amy is convinced of his innocence and is determined to make it her mission to prove it to everyone...most of all, Bodkin's nasty boss Inspector Laws.
MURDER AT THE MILL is a well written cosy mystery with no distractions such as bad grammar, punctuation or spelling. Another refreshing change in which many books fail the editing process. The story and setting was reminiscent of Agatha Christie though Amy is a far younger detective than that of the well known Miss Marple or Hercule Poirot.
I enjoyed the humour and with peppered throughout the story as Amy kept Bodkin on his toes. Ferris was a wonderful amusing character that I would have liked to see a little more of. I loved the relationship between her and Bodkin as she appeared to be invaluable to him as well as a source of down time relief. There is a budding romance there but we'll see what becomes of it it if this is to become a series.
An entertaining cosy mystery, MURDER AT THE MILL delivers plenty of twists and red herrings to make Ms Christie proud. My only complaint is I felt it a little long and drawn out in places but it certainly was a fun and entertaining read nonetheless.
I would like to thank #TABelshaw, #SpellboundBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #MurderAtTheMill in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
What a delightful little cosy mystery in the style of the Queen of Crime herself, Agatha Christie. We have murder, blackmail, mayhem, old movies and even a little romance. It's all done in such a lighthearted way I felt as though I was a part of the scene myself. I enjoyed the relationship between Amy and Bodkin, their banter and friendship. I also enjoyed Amy's weekly trips to the pictures and loved hearing about some of the films she saw. I particularly enjoyed "The Lady Vanishes" as well, being a huge Hitchcock fan myself. And true to the cosy crime genre, the murder takes place "off stage" without any graphic violence, profanity or explicit sex, making for a refreshing change.
Set in early 1939, we meet Amy Rowlings as she is on her way to work at the garment factory, known as "the mill", where she is a machinist. Her attention is thwarted when there appears to have been a burglary in the buildings opposite, where she gains the eye of Detective Sergeant Bodkin, thus making her late for her shift. Little does she know how much her life is about to change.
Then the following morning she is stopped at the gates along with the other workers. Edward Handsley, the owner's son, has been found dead on the floor of the maintenance room of the factory. Amy is immediately drawn to the crime and is eager to help solve it. As Bodkin is new to the area he welcomes Amy's insight and assistance in providing background information about the area and those likely to be suspects...or not. But the suspect list is long as Edward, who was colloquially known amongst the women as Wandering Handsley, made many enemies quickly with his attitude to both men and women alike.
Amy's assistance proves invaluable as Bodkin calls her her his Miss Marple - a nod to the Queen of Crime herself - and she is an incredibly sharp and quick witted young woman. She has an eye for detail and teams up with Bodkin to solve what thus becomes two murders. When an arrest is made, Amy is convinced of his innocence and is determined to make it her mission to prove it to everyone...most of all, Bodkin's nasty boss Inspector Laws.
MURDER AT THE MILL is a well written cosy mystery with no distractions such as bad grammar, punctuation or spelling. Another refreshing change in which many books fail the editing process. The story and setting was reminiscent of Agatha Christie though Amy is a far younger detective than that of the well known Miss Marple or Hercule Poirot.
I enjoyed the humour and with peppered throughout the story as Amy kept Bodkin on his toes. Ferris was a wonderful amusing character that I would have liked to see a little more of. I loved the relationship between her and Bodkin as she appeared to be invaluable to him as well as a source of down time relief. There is a budding romance there but we'll see what becomes of it it if this is to become a series.
An entertaining cosy mystery, MURDER AT THE MILL delivers plenty of twists and red herrings to make Ms Christie proud. My only complaint is I felt it a little long and drawn out in places but it certainly was a fun and entertaining read nonetheless.
I would like to thank #TABelshaw, #SpellboundBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #MurderAtTheMill in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
July 9, 2022
I have been a fan of this author’s work for a little while now. By no means have I read everything that he has written but I hope to rectify that as soon as I can. I read the synopsis for ‘Murder At The Mill’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of cosy mystery that I would enjoy. ‘Murder At The Mill’ is the first book in a new series featuring Amy Rowlings. I was spot on too because I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Murder At The Mill’ but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely loved the character of Amy Rowlings and I warmed to her from the very start. In fact I began to think of her as a friend and I ended up feeling all protective of her. She is certainly one determined and feisty young lady. She currently works at the mill but following the discovery of a body at the mill, Amy can’t help but become involved in the police murder investigation. Amy has the knack of being able to get the information and see the clues that the police can’t. Amy is funny, bright and loyal to those she loves. Will Amy get to the truth? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I have to say that as soon as I started reading, I knew that this was a book that I wouldn’t be able to put down. I don’t mean that the book was glued to my hand or anything but it might as well have been because the book travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. Part of the appeal of the book was down to Amy and the fact that the story takes place in an era which I find fascinating. I am a bit of a history nerd as well as a book geek. The more of the story I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. Throughout the book, I kept changing my mind as to who the suspected murderer was so the story certainly kept me on my toes as well as on the edge of my seat. I found ‘Murder At The Mill’ to be a gripping and fun sort of read.
‘Murder At The Mill’ is superbly written. The author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. The author certainly has the knack of being able to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be a compelling story. For me, the story hits the ground running and maintained a fairly steady pace throughout. T. A. Belshaw clearly cares about his characters and this shines through in the very realistic and vivid way in which he describes them. He really does make them seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which the author makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Murder At The Mill’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I hope to read much more of the author’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I absolutely loved the character of Amy Rowlings and I warmed to her from the very start. In fact I began to think of her as a friend and I ended up feeling all protective of her. She is certainly one determined and feisty young lady. She currently works at the mill but following the discovery of a body at the mill, Amy can’t help but become involved in the police murder investigation. Amy has the knack of being able to get the information and see the clues that the police can’t. Amy is funny, bright and loyal to those she loves. Will Amy get to the truth? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I have to say that as soon as I started reading, I knew that this was a book that I wouldn’t be able to put down. I don’t mean that the book was glued to my hand or anything but it might as well have been because the book travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. Part of the appeal of the book was down to Amy and the fact that the story takes place in an era which I find fascinating. I am a bit of a history nerd as well as a book geek. The more of the story I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. Throughout the book, I kept changing my mind as to who the suspected murderer was so the story certainly kept me on my toes as well as on the edge of my seat. I found ‘Murder At The Mill’ to be a gripping and fun sort of read.
‘Murder At The Mill’ is superbly written. The author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. The author certainly has the knack of being able to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be a compelling story. For me, the story hits the ground running and maintained a fairly steady pace throughout. T. A. Belshaw clearly cares about his characters and this shines through in the very realistic and vivid way in which he describes them. He really does make them seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which the author makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Murder At The Mill’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I hope to read much more of the author’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
December 14, 2020
A murder mystery January 1939, Amy Rowlings working at Handsleys garment factory is on her way to work, Harringtons timber yard across the road has been burgled and D S Bodkin is on site with Amy helping with the enquiries she is late for work she would be the talk of the workshop.
The next morning the bosses son Edward Handsley is found dead on the repair shop floor that comes as a shock to the staff who are all been questioned, he wasnt called wandering Handsley for nothing, Amy is what D S Bodkin calls his Miss Marple such a sharp witty ordinary working girl, but she did have a sharp eye for clues and solving cases they become a team, but sharp eyes are on these two and everyone is wondering if despite the age difference could this turn into a romance time will tell.
I loved this book, its fun witty and fast pace in parts and full of surprises from the characters. This is written in a natural style from the author and I loved it.
The next morning the bosses son Edward Handsley is found dead on the repair shop floor that comes as a shock to the staff who are all been questioned, he wasnt called wandering Handsley for nothing, Amy is what D S Bodkin calls his Miss Marple such a sharp witty ordinary working girl, but she did have a sharp eye for clues and solving cases they become a team, but sharp eyes are on these two and everyone is wondering if despite the age difference could this turn into a romance time will tell.
I loved this book, its fun witty and fast pace in parts and full of surprises from the characters. This is written in a natural style from the author and I loved it.
July 9, 2022
What a fun read! Books with strong feminine lead characters at a time when they were to be "seen and not heard' are amongst my favorite reads. I love their tenacity as they push limits and embrace the consequences. I'm also realizing how much I love a good cozy mystery.
The cast of characters are genuine and hard not to enjoy. The personalities blend well, and the story is well paced. The twists and turns kept me engaged from start to finish. Just when I thought I had figured it out, another twist was thrown in and truly enjoyed the surprise at the end.
I love this new series and can’t wait to see how this series unfolds.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you T.A. Belshaw, SpellBound Books, and Zooloo's Book Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.
The cast of characters are genuine and hard not to enjoy. The personalities blend well, and the story is well paced. The twists and turns kept me engaged from start to finish. Just when I thought I had figured it out, another twist was thrown in and truly enjoyed the surprise at the end.
I love this new series and can’t wait to see how this series unfolds.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you T.A. Belshaw, SpellBound Books, and Zooloo's Book Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.
July 11, 2022
Murder at the Mill by T.A Belshaw.
When young Amy Rowlings meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a robbery on the way to work at The Mill, one snowy, January morning, she is blissfully unaware of how much her life is about to change..a brilliant read. Great story and characters. Loved Amy. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
When young Amy Rowlings meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a robbery on the way to work at The Mill, one snowy, January morning, she is blissfully unaware of how much her life is about to change..a brilliant read. Great story and characters. Loved Amy. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
July 17, 2022
A brilliant start to a brand new cosy mystery series. I really enjoyed meeting the characters and seeing Amy solve the murders and bring her own flavour to detecting. I am looking forward to the next book.
February 20, 2021
Murder At The Mill by T.A Belshaw is the second book I have read and reviewed by T.A Belshaw. The first being Unspoken, a family saga that I thoroughly enjoyed. So I headed into 'Murder at the Mill' with quite high expectations, I am happy to say it didn't let me down.
A new cosy crime series that geipped me from the start. Set in 1939, Amy Rowling a machinist is on her way to work at The Mill ehen she meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin, who is attending a callout to a burglery in the next door building from The Mill. She doesn't realise just how much her life is about to change. When Edward Handsley, the mill owners son is discovered dead on the floor of the clothing factory she is drawn in the middle of it. Edward apart from not being the nicest man had so many female enemies that it could be anyone. D.S Bodkin is new to the area so Amy gives him information about the area and people which makes her someone of importance for Bodkin. The man who is arrested for the murder is a family friend of Amy and she is convinced of his innocence so makes it a mission to prove it to everyone.
As I discovered with his previous book the author creates great characters and I loved Amy and her confidence. She becomes invaluable to D.S Bodkin and when she realises her friend has been arrested she takes it upon herself to go all out and find the evidence to get him out. A well written book with twists and turns throughout that keep up the pace of this cosy crime story. I always love when books are set in the past as I always lose myself in them. With the authors knack of turning back time I lost a fair few hours reading this, not that I am complaining! Definitely the opposite!! One detail I really enjoyed was that a few characters from his previous book appeared in this one...I loved that! Totally genius idea for me anyway.
Thanks to NetGalley and T.A Belshaw for the copy of this great book for my honest review today!
A new cosy crime series that geipped me from the start. Set in 1939, Amy Rowling a machinist is on her way to work at The Mill ehen she meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin, who is attending a callout to a burglery in the next door building from The Mill. She doesn't realise just how much her life is about to change. When Edward Handsley, the mill owners son is discovered dead on the floor of the clothing factory she is drawn in the middle of it. Edward apart from not being the nicest man had so many female enemies that it could be anyone. D.S Bodkin is new to the area so Amy gives him information about the area and people which makes her someone of importance for Bodkin. The man who is arrested for the murder is a family friend of Amy and she is convinced of his innocence so makes it a mission to prove it to everyone.
As I discovered with his previous book the author creates great characters and I loved Amy and her confidence. She becomes invaluable to D.S Bodkin and when she realises her friend has been arrested she takes it upon herself to go all out and find the evidence to get him out. A well written book with twists and turns throughout that keep up the pace of this cosy crime story. I always love when books are set in the past as I always lose myself in them. With the authors knack of turning back time I lost a fair few hours reading this, not that I am complaining! Definitely the opposite!! One detail I really enjoyed was that a few characters from his previous book appeared in this one...I loved that! Totally genius idea for me anyway.
Thanks to NetGalley and T.A Belshaw for the copy of this great book for my honest review today!
February 6, 2021
Murder at the Mill. An Amy Rowlings Mystery by T. A. Belshaw. BooksGoSocial, 2020.
When a murder occurs in a pre-WWII Kent County England clothing factory, and the victim is a much-disliked workplace libertine, seamstress Amy Rowlings insinuates herself into the investigation. Amy spots previously overlooked clues, then teams up with police, often in the guise of the lead Detective Sergeant’s date.
Murder at the Mill follows Belshaw’s earlier book, Unspoken, where Amy is a friend of the heroine in that dual-timeline story. This is the first in the Amy Rowlings “cozy crime” series. True to the genre, the murder takes place “off stage” without graphic violence, profanity, or explicit sex.
Perhaps because I expected this book to be like those of Charles Todd, Jacqueline Winspear or Anna Lee Huber, which it is not, it took me a few chapters to engage with the story and become accustomed to the writing style, which I think is meant to be typical of the period.
Murder at the Mill is well-written with no distractions (grammar, punctuation, story line flaws,) and a surprising number of shockingly amoral supporting characters whose actions kept me guessing.
I liked it but I didn’t love it.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of Murder at the Mill free via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #MurderAtTheMill #NetGalley
When a murder occurs in a pre-WWII Kent County England clothing factory, and the victim is a much-disliked workplace libertine, seamstress Amy Rowlings insinuates herself into the investigation. Amy spots previously overlooked clues, then teams up with police, often in the guise of the lead Detective Sergeant’s date.
Murder at the Mill follows Belshaw’s earlier book, Unspoken, where Amy is a friend of the heroine in that dual-timeline story. This is the first in the Amy Rowlings “cozy crime” series. True to the genre, the murder takes place “off stage” without graphic violence, profanity, or explicit sex.
Perhaps because I expected this book to be like those of Charles Todd, Jacqueline Winspear or Anna Lee Huber, which it is not, it took me a few chapters to engage with the story and become accustomed to the writing style, which I think is meant to be typical of the period.
Murder at the Mill is well-written with no distractions (grammar, punctuation, story line flaws,) and a surprising number of shockingly amoral supporting characters whose actions kept me guessing.
I liked it but I didn’t love it.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of Murder at the Mill free via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #MurderAtTheMill #NetGalley
May 18, 2023
"Murder at the Mill" by T.A. Belshaw is a captivating and atmospheric 1930s cosy crime novel that introduces readers to the spirited and intelligent Amy Rowlings. With a passion for imported American music, crime fiction, and movies, Amy's life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a robbery. Little does she know that this encounter will thrust her into the dark and dangerous world of murder.
When the body of Edward Handsley, a promiscuous young man with many enemies, is discovered at the clothing factory where Amy works, she becomes an essential source of information for Bodkin, offering her local knowledge and insights. Convinced that the wrong man has been arrested, Amy sets out to prove Adam Smethwick's innocence, forming an alliance with George's fiancé, Justine, and suspecting the foreman, Mr Pilling, of hiding something sinister.
As the investigation unfolds, Amy's relationship with Bodkin is tested, with the detective sticking to the presented facts while Amy takes a more nuanced approach, drawing inspiration from her beloved Agatha Christie books. With an engaging mix of mystery, suspense, and a touch of romance, "Murder at the Mill" is the first installment in a delightful 1930s cosy crime series that will transport readers to a bygone era of intrigue and secrets.
When the body of Edward Handsley, a promiscuous young man with many enemies, is discovered at the clothing factory where Amy works, she becomes an essential source of information for Bodkin, offering her local knowledge and insights. Convinced that the wrong man has been arrested, Amy sets out to prove Adam Smethwick's innocence, forming an alliance with George's fiancé, Justine, and suspecting the foreman, Mr Pilling, of hiding something sinister.
As the investigation unfolds, Amy's relationship with Bodkin is tested, with the detective sticking to the presented facts while Amy takes a more nuanced approach, drawing inspiration from her beloved Agatha Christie books. With an engaging mix of mystery, suspense, and a touch of romance, "Murder at the Mill" is the first installment in a delightful 1930s cosy crime series that will transport readers to a bygone era of intrigue and secrets.
December 31, 2023
Now while I love crime thrillers, I've never really explored historical crime reads, other than reading a few Agatha Christie back in the day.
Murder at the Mill was an absolute delight, introducing us to the wonderful duo of Amy Rowlings and Bodkin. Amy works as a machinist at the Mill, the moniker locals have given the factory where a lot of them work in the fictional town of Spinton, Kent, and Bodkin is a police detective, who recently arrived from Gillingham. There is an obvious chemistry between them, even if Amy insists that they are just friends.
The author creates a Christiesque feel to the novel, slipping subtle clues into the narrative, while keeping the reader guessing about who might be the culprit. The tension builds as Bodkin, and Amy investigate the case, dealing with a whole host of suspects who can be more than a little economical with the truth. Amy is a feisty young woman, definitely ahead of her time, and certainly not happy to fit into the box that society feels she should belong in. The eureka moment, when she lays out the case, is positively charming, and I almost wanted to stand and give her an ovation because I was completely in the dark.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, I'm eager to see how the author develops the characters...
Murder at the Mill was an absolute delight, introducing us to the wonderful duo of Amy Rowlings and Bodkin. Amy works as a machinist at the Mill, the moniker locals have given the factory where a lot of them work in the fictional town of Spinton, Kent, and Bodkin is a police detective, who recently arrived from Gillingham. There is an obvious chemistry between them, even if Amy insists that they are just friends.
The author creates a Christiesque feel to the novel, slipping subtle clues into the narrative, while keeping the reader guessing about who might be the culprit. The tension builds as Bodkin, and Amy investigate the case, dealing with a whole host of suspects who can be more than a little economical with the truth. Amy is a feisty young woman, definitely ahead of her time, and certainly not happy to fit into the box that society feels she should belong in. The eureka moment, when she lays out the case, is positively charming, and I almost wanted to stand and give her an ovation because I was completely in the dark.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, I'm eager to see how the author develops the characters...
January 14, 2021
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When young Amy Rowlings meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a burglary on the way to work at The Mill one snowy January morning, she is blissfully unaware of how much her life is about to change.
When I read the synopsis of Murder at the Mill, it gave me huge Agatha Christie's books vibes, which I absolutely love and decided to give it a chance. At the beginning of the book, the pace felt good and the crime was interesting and piqued my interest. Besides, I loved that it was set in 1939 and it was written so well that it was easy to imagine every scenery. However, as the story progressed, I felt it didn't pay off quite well, with too many implausible twists and situations that kept me disliking it more and more. Assuming this is going to be a series of mystery books, I don't know if I'll be interested on pick up the next one. Despite loving mystery and especially those lead by women, this one just doesn't float my boat, I guess.
When young Amy Rowlings meets Detective Sergeant Bodkin at the scene of a burglary on the way to work at The Mill one snowy January morning, she is blissfully unaware of how much her life is about to change.
When I read the synopsis of Murder at the Mill, it gave me huge Agatha Christie's books vibes, which I absolutely love and decided to give it a chance. At the beginning of the book, the pace felt good and the crime was interesting and piqued my interest. Besides, I loved that it was set in 1939 and it was written so well that it was easy to imagine every scenery. However, as the story progressed, I felt it didn't pay off quite well, with too many implausible twists and situations that kept me disliking it more and more. Assuming this is going to be a series of mystery books, I don't know if I'll be interested on pick up the next one. Despite loving mystery and especially those lead by women, this one just doesn't float my boat, I guess.
April 21, 2021
Murder at The Mill: An Amy Rowlings Mystery by T. A. Belshaw was an enjoyable cozy mystery set in the late 1930s. I enjoyed the relationship between Detective Sergeant Bodkin and Amy Rowlings. I loved how the author slowly let the relationship grow. The plot was written well and kept your attention. The characters were believable even though Chief Inspector Laws was a bit over the top with his nastiness. I really enjoyed the weekly visits to the movies that Amy and her friends did. It was fun thinking about old movies that I have seen several times, being brand new at that time. The same with the Agatha Christie’s book that was mentioned as her latest release, Appointment with Death. The book was a fun read and I think anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries will enjoy this book.
Thank you to T.A. Belshaw and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. My review is voluntary and all opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you to T.A. Belshaw and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. My review is voluntary and all opinions expressed are my own.
February 6, 2021
I enjoyed this book, its fun witty and full of surprises from the characters. It is written in such a natural style that makes the reader feel that they are having a personal conversation with the author and I loved it. The pace of the story was just right with plenty of clues, twists and turns to keep the reader guessing the identity of the murderer, I failed to guess who the culprit was so the ending was a real surprise. Set in 1939, the story was written so well that it was easy to imagine every scene, situation and character. This is not just a mystery murder, but sets out in detail the social background and daily life of work a working-class family life The main character, Amy lived according to the accepted moral standards of the day yet keeps getting her own way with her policeman friend. For regular readers of Trevor Belshaw it was good to meet characters from the family saga Unspoken, yet this book can be read independently. Five stars out of five.
October 5, 2022
I love a good murder mystery, and in this first of a series we get some of my favourite things all wrapped up with a bow.
A strong, fearless and smart heroine. An intriguing mystery to solve, and a really good pacing to the book.
Even though I do enjoy darker thrillers, my favourites are more of a cozy variety, which this novel has. Even though its set in 1939 it has a very modern feel to it and I like the way it's been written a lot.
I think if you are a fan of Agatha Christie, sleuthing and cozy mysteries, you may very well enjoy this one.
A strong, fearless and smart heroine. An intriguing mystery to solve, and a really good pacing to the book.
Even though I do enjoy darker thrillers, my favourites are more of a cozy variety, which this novel has. Even though its set in 1939 it has a very modern feel to it and I like the way it's been written a lot.
I think if you are a fan of Agatha Christie, sleuthing and cozy mysteries, you may very well enjoy this one.
August 2, 2022
I already love Amy.
Feisty factory girl content in her own community at the start of the Second World War
One snowy morning she meets Sergeant Bodkin who is investigating the murder of the philandering son of the factory owner.
When the police arrest the wrong man Amy and Bodkin work together to find out exactly what happened that night and in doing so uncover many village relationships which had been secret.
Amy is great fun well worth a read if you like a light hearted murder mystery.
Feisty factory girl content in her own community at the start of the Second World War
One snowy morning she meets Sergeant Bodkin who is investigating the murder of the philandering son of the factory owner.
When the police arrest the wrong man Amy and Bodkin work together to find out exactly what happened that night and in doing so uncover many village relationships which had been secret.
Amy is great fun well worth a read if you like a light hearted murder mystery.
March 26, 2021
When her employer's unpopular son is found dead in his father's clothing factory, seamstress Amy Rowlings, fan of movies and detective novels, is thrilled to find herself in the middle of a real murder/mystery and is soon helping Detective Sergeant Bodkin, a newcomer to the area, unravel the tangled threads.
T. A, Belshaw presents us with an excellent ''Whodunnit'' and a glimpse into the era in which the novel is set which some authors, including those writing in the 1930s, sometimes fail to do, their focus being on the play and the players rather than the stage setting and backdrop! A great read which I took my time over and savoured and I look forward to more of Amy and Bodkin soon.
T. A, Belshaw presents us with an excellent ''Whodunnit'' and a glimpse into the era in which the novel is set which some authors, including those writing in the 1930s, sometimes fail to do, their focus being on the play and the players rather than the stage setting and backdrop! A great read which I took my time over and savoured and I look forward to more of Amy and Bodkin soon.
August 11, 2023
First in the Series
I really enjoyed this book. Most of the cosy mysteries I read usually have an aristocrat as the amateur detective. Having middle class people sleuthing is a nice change of pace. Just one minor quibble. WWII was about to begin and it was barely mentioned. But, all in all, this is a good book.
I really enjoyed this book. Most of the cosy mysteries I read usually have an aristocrat as the amateur detective. Having middle class people sleuthing is a nice change of pace. Just one minor quibble. WWII was about to begin and it was barely mentioned. But, all in all, this is a good book.
January 23, 2026
Audiobook review
This was a great listen.
Amy is a fab character and I love Bodkin too. I’ll def get more of these.
They become friends because of a murder where Amy works and they start going around together. Which means she helps more than was intended.
Great storyline & even more characters to like or dislike and narration was very good too.
This was a great listen.
Amy is a fab character and I love Bodkin too. I’ll def get more of these.
They become friends because of a murder where Amy works and they start going around together. Which means she helps more than was intended.
Great storyline & even more characters to like or dislike and narration was very good too.
February 24, 2021
Amy and bodkin
Wow what a book it had me on edge of my seat the twists and turns of Amy the ametuer detective and bodkin the detective not giving anything away but you need to read this book well worth 5 STARS.
Wow what a book it had me on edge of my seat the twists and turns of Amy the ametuer detective and bodkin the detective not giving anything away but you need to read this book well worth 5 STARS.
January 19, 2024
A totally deserving 5 stars.
An absolutely amazing reading experience, beautifully descriptive of both surroundings and characters. I was so totally immersed in the characters and plot that I did not want the book to end. You can tell how much thought the author has put in to produce such an enthralling book.
I was humming and hawing all the way through, debating “whodunit” and no I did not manage to figure it out!!!! Really well thought out with plenty of spanners in the works to throw us off the scent, brilliant.
Amy fancies herself as an amateur detective and Bodkin is the real deal, their relationship is such fun, Amy can be quite sassy when she fancies! I cannot wait to see how things progress between them both in the next book. I actually felt like I really knew the characters and Amy doesn’t half get you rooting for her. I love it when a book has such developed characters from the start, it makes it such a pleasure to read.
This book was a salve for my reading soul.
Highly recommend and happy reading.
An absolutely amazing reading experience, beautifully descriptive of both surroundings and characters. I was so totally immersed in the characters and plot that I did not want the book to end. You can tell how much thought the author has put in to produce such an enthralling book.
I was humming and hawing all the way through, debating “whodunit” and no I did not manage to figure it out!!!! Really well thought out with plenty of spanners in the works to throw us off the scent, brilliant.
Amy fancies herself as an amateur detective and Bodkin is the real deal, their relationship is such fun, Amy can be quite sassy when she fancies! I cannot wait to see how things progress between them both in the next book. I actually felt like I really knew the characters and Amy doesn’t half get you rooting for her. I love it when a book has such developed characters from the start, it makes it such a pleasure to read.
This book was a salve for my reading soul.
Highly recommend and happy reading.
March 13, 2026
I started reading this because of the main charactors name and I'm glad I did. At first I was a little unsure but it quickly grew on me. I did feel the people were a bit modern and out of time but that didn't make it any less enjoyable. I recomend this to anyone looking for an enjoyable easy read.
August 2, 2023
Good read
I was recommended the book and really enjoyed. I read it quickly which is a sign of an interesting story. I certainly didn't get "whodunnit"!
I was recommended the book and really enjoyed. I read it quickly which is a sign of an interesting story. I certainly didn't get "whodunnit"!
August 21, 2021
1939 in a small Kent town is the setting of this well written cozy. With plenty of suspects and a murder this is quite the enjoyable read.
July 13, 2022
book starts with 21 year old Amy Rowlings meets DS Bodkin at the garment factory where she works, DS Bodkin is investigating a robbery happened in another factory.
Very next day Amy find DS Bodkin standing outside the factory she works, as the son of the factory owner is found dead in the Maintenance Room.
While they both are looking for clues to solve the murder mystery, DS Bodkin keeps reaching out to Amy for help and out of his fondness too.
Enjoyable read, well expressed characters, fast paced, crime thriller. It starts with sweeter tone and gradually turns intense.
Very next day Amy find DS Bodkin standing outside the factory she works, as the son of the factory owner is found dead in the Maintenance Room.
While they both are looking for clues to solve the murder mystery, DS Bodkin keeps reaching out to Amy for help and out of his fondness too.
Enjoyable read, well expressed characters, fast paced, crime thriller. It starts with sweeter tone and gradually turns intense.
July 8, 2022
Set in 1939, this cozy mystery is full of lively characters and a lot of them have secrets. Amy works at the Mill, where a body is found. The main suspect is a friend and she believes he is innocent. She insists on investigating, to the dismay of DS Bodkin, who worries for her safety. The dead man had many people with reasons to harm him, but who actually did it? And can Amy prove it?
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