What do you think?
Rate this book
Eve Mallow Mystery #10
Mystery at Farfield Castle
When novelist Julian Fisher buys Farfield Castle to turn the charming old building into a writers’ retreat, he wants the neighbours onside. But he has his work cut out: Saxford St Peter locals tried to buy the castle for the village, and are furious that only the very rich will be able to enjoy it.
At the lavish launch party, Fisher treats the villagers like royalty, but Eve Mallow is distracted by the tension in the air. She watches as Fisher’s wife Kitty argues with several guests, almost in tears, before she disappears altogether…
Later that evening, when Kitty is found dead in the castle’s icehouse, it’s quickly proved to be no accident. With dozy Detective Palmer on the wrong track, Eve can’t resist getting involved. Convinced the answers lie inside Farfield Castle, Eve questions an overly inquisitive journalist, Kitty’s less-than-loyal husband, and his prickly PA.
But when it emerges that a family heirloom and Julian’s computer both went missing on the night of the party, Eve is sure that solving the theft will solve the murder. Who is behind this deadly tale… and can Eve find the killer before she gets written off?
At the lavish launch party, Fisher treats the villagers like royalty, but Eve Mallow is distracted by the tension in the air. She watches as Fisher’s wife Kitty argues with several guests, almost in tears, before she disappears altogether…
Later that evening, when Kitty is found dead in the castle’s icehouse, it’s quickly proved to be no accident. With dozy Detective Palmer on the wrong track, Eve can’t resist getting involved. Convinced the answers lie inside Farfield Castle, Eve questions an overly inquisitive journalist, Kitty’s less-than-loyal husband, and his prickly PA.
But when it emerges that a family heirloom and Julian’s computer both went missing on the night of the party, Eve is sure that solving the theft will solve the murder. Who is behind this deadly tale… and can Eve find the killer before she gets written off?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2023
1308 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
Clare Chase
34 books315 followersClare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations.
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 6, 2023
The tenth book in the Eve Mallow series and I was very surprised to discover I had not read any of the previous books. I really felt that I had met Eve before but apparently not.
Eve is a writer, mainly of obituaries but occasionally of other things as well. When she attends a writers in residence week she does not expect a murder to occur on the very first night at the welcoming party. The local Detective is generally considered not to be very smart and Eve quickly gets caught up in the investigation.
It is well written with nice characters and the author provides plenty of possible culprits which keeps the reader guessing. Occasionally I felt that Eve spent too much time theorising and discussing possibilities with her friends, and not enough detecting, which meant the story moved slowly. Still worth four stars and I would like to read more by this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Eve is a writer, mainly of obituaries but occasionally of other things as well. When she attends a writers in residence week she does not expect a murder to occur on the very first night at the welcoming party. The local Detective is generally considered not to be very smart and Eve quickly gets caught up in the investigation.
It is well written with nice characters and the author provides plenty of possible culprits which keeps the reader guessing. Occasionally I felt that Eve spent too much time theorising and discussing possibilities with her friends, and not enough detecting, which meant the story moved slowly. Still worth four stars and I would like to read more by this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 28, 2023
Officially, Eve's job is to write obituaries. Unofficially, though, she has a habit of stumbling across dead bodies...and a talent for solving the mystery before the rather inept detectives can. In Mystery at Farfield Castle, Eve has accepted a request to write about something else—there shouldn't be any murders to solve at a new writing retreat set at an old castle, right? ...right? But before long, of course, Eve is right in it (with her silent but trusty sidekick/familiar/doggo, Gus), trying to figure out who killed Kitty Marchant, one of the owners of the retreat.
I went into this cozy relatively blind, which is to say that it's book 10 in a series of which I have not read books 1–9. I'm happy to report that although there are several threads for storylines that clearly span numerous books, this stands alone. The mystery isn't quite a locked-room sort (there are too many random people on the grounds of the castle when Kitty is killed), but it's clear early on that there are only a few viable suspects, some of whom have reason to resent Kitty and her husband's purchase of the castle...and some of whom might have more personal reasons to want Kitty dead. Not a lot of big twists here, but plenty of small clues that add up to keep you guessing until the end. Eve being a reporter, too, gives her the excuse (not just for the other characters, but for the reader) to dig a bit into personal lives—she knows things that the average attendee might not when she shows up, but that makes sense because Eve has done her due diligence.
The real reason I read the book was the setting—a writer's retreat at a castle! I cannot possibly be the only person who daydreams of winning the lottery and setting up exactly that. (In fact, I know I am not, because I have seen many memes to that effect.) To that end, while I knew going in that the murder takes place at the launch party rather than when a bunch of writers are there, I would have liked quite a bit more, well, castle out of this. This is a personal quirk, I think (I live in a studio apartment and wouldn't want to deal with the upkeep of a many-roomed castle, thanks, but I would like to imagine myself in the castle library), but in books set in castles, or manors, or just big, old houses, I tend to want the building to be almost a character in and of itself. Even more specifically, I want to see how another writer imagines a castle-as-writing-retreat to be set up.
I'll have to look elsewhere to get my writing-retreat-castle kicks, then, but as a cozy mystery this was a lot of fun. Hurray for heroines who know enough to call in backup.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy via NetGalley.
I went into this cozy relatively blind, which is to say that it's book 10 in a series of which I have not read books 1–9. I'm happy to report that although there are several threads for storylines that clearly span numerous books, this stands alone. The mystery isn't quite a locked-room sort (there are too many random people on the grounds of the castle when Kitty is killed), but it's clear early on that there are only a few viable suspects, some of whom have reason to resent Kitty and her husband's purchase of the castle...and some of whom might have more personal reasons to want Kitty dead. Not a lot of big twists here, but plenty of small clues that add up to keep you guessing until the end. Eve being a reporter, too, gives her the excuse (not just for the other characters, but for the reader) to dig a bit into personal lives—she knows things that the average attendee might not when she shows up, but that makes sense because Eve has done her due diligence.
The real reason I read the book was the setting—a writer's retreat at a castle! I cannot possibly be the only person who daydreams of winning the lottery and setting up exactly that. (In fact, I know I am not, because I have seen many memes to that effect.) To that end, while I knew going in that the murder takes place at the launch party rather than when a bunch of writers are there, I would have liked quite a bit more, well, castle out of this. This is a personal quirk, I think (I live in a studio apartment and wouldn't want to deal with the upkeep of a many-roomed castle, thanks, but I would like to imagine myself in the castle library), but in books set in castles, or manors, or just big, old houses, I tend to want the building to be almost a character in and of itself. Even more specifically, I want to see how another writer imagines a castle-as-writing-retreat to be set up.
I'll have to look elsewhere to get my writing-retreat-castle kicks, then, but as a cozy mystery this was a lot of fun. Hurray for heroines who know enough to call in backup.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy via NetGalley.
May 7, 2023
Eve Mallow is exceptional when it comes to writing obituaries. In most cases, however, she finds herself quite adept when it comes to solving murders. Currently, she is attending a launch party for a newly purchased castle. The castle was hoped to be purchased as a writers’ retreat, but the local villagers had another purpose in mind for the castle. As Eve is in attendance at the launch party, it does not take her long to realize how much tension is among the people there.
In fact, the castle was purchased by a novelist named Julian Fisher, and Eve had noticed that his wife Kitty was not happy with several people there. When she is found dead, the police nearly immediately recognize that it was murder. Eve’s attention to the article that she was to write is quickly shifted as she is determined to find out who the killer was. As she now will be writing Kitty's obituary, this affords her the opportunity to dig really deep as to the possible motive, and hopefully discover Kitty’s murderer.
Meanwhile, Eve’s boyfriend Robin is away in the city for a very important matter, and this gives her the chance to evaluate their relationship. For the matter at hand, there was more than one theft at the launch party, and Eve knows that they must be tied to Kitty’s murder.
I love this cozy mystery series, and this book was a true delight and an excellent addition to a very enjoyable series. Eve is the perfect amateur sleuth and I love how she is always accompanied by her trusty dachshund Gus. Pets in these cozy mystery series always add just the right touch, and Clare Chase has done that with this series.
One thing I loved about this book is how I felt like I was working right alongside Eve as she was eliminating suspects. As I was checking off names as to whom I was certain was not responsible for Kitty’s murder, I loved being surprised at the twists as they came through, and loved being proved wrong. Ten books in and this series keeps on getting better and better. I am keenly awaiting the next installment.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
In fact, the castle was purchased by a novelist named Julian Fisher, and Eve had noticed that his wife Kitty was not happy with several people there. When she is found dead, the police nearly immediately recognize that it was murder. Eve’s attention to the article that she was to write is quickly shifted as she is determined to find out who the killer was. As she now will be writing Kitty's obituary, this affords her the opportunity to dig really deep as to the possible motive, and hopefully discover Kitty’s murderer.
Meanwhile, Eve’s boyfriend Robin is away in the city for a very important matter, and this gives her the chance to evaluate their relationship. For the matter at hand, there was more than one theft at the launch party, and Eve knows that they must be tied to Kitty’s murder.
I love this cozy mystery series, and this book was a true delight and an excellent addition to a very enjoyable series. Eve is the perfect amateur sleuth and I love how she is always accompanied by her trusty dachshund Gus. Pets in these cozy mystery series always add just the right touch, and Clare Chase has done that with this series.
One thing I loved about this book is how I felt like I was working right alongside Eve as she was eliminating suspects. As I was checking off names as to whom I was certain was not responsible for Kitty’s murder, I loved being surprised at the twists as they came through, and loved being proved wrong. Ten books in and this series keeps on getting better and better. I am keenly awaiting the next installment.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 27, 2023
The tenth book in the series and Eve has another mystery to solve. The story is character driven and the complex mystery kept me completely stumped the whole way through. Eve is a nice character with the ability to mingle in any setting with ease and has a way of ferreting out the truth when something doesn't seem right. She spends a lot of time talking and asking questions and that got a little bit monotonous for me at one stage but the drama and suspense towards the end was exciting.
Her dog, Gus, is adorable and I enjoy it when he's involved. Robin didn't feature much in this instalment but he is also a firm favourite character.
This was a clever mystery and I'm glad to see that book 11 will be out in November.
Her dog, Gus, is adorable and I enjoy it when he's involved. Robin didn't feature much in this instalment but he is also a firm favourite character.
This was a clever mystery and I'm glad to see that book 11 will be out in November.
May 8, 2023
Farfield Castle has history for the Marchant family. Nate's and Kitty's grandparents owned the castle when they were young. After a falling out with Benet, their son and Nate's and Kitty's father, they lost all their money to a scammer. Kitty was living with her father at the time and Nate with his grandparents. She never reconciled with her grandparents, but when Farfield was put up for sale, Nate bought it. His plan was to turn it into a writer's retreat with Kitty's husband Julian the writer in residence. The villagers are not happy as they wanted the community to have access to it, so in order to soothe ruffled feathers they decided to have an open house of sorts and wine and dine the villagers. Eve Mallow is a writer who works for Icon magazine, usually writing obituaries, but has been tasked to write an article about the retreat. She and one other journalist, Luke Shipley from Cascade magazine have been given exclusive access and are staying at Farfield Castle for the duration of the gala weekend. When Kitty Marchant is found dead in the icehouse, everything comes to a standstill. Luke and Eve are invited to stay for the rest of the time they were scheduled to be there, and Eve has now been tasked to write Kitty's obituary. Of course, this gives her license to snoop and see if she can figure out what happened and who killed Kitty, assuming that the lazy DI Palmer won't.
Mystery at Farfield Castle was another enjoyable cozy mystery set in a small, quaint English village. I have to say, I loved the eccentric, nosy busybodies in the village who share their information, guesses and gossips with Eve in hope of getting the scoop. Eve is a smart cookie, who uses her intuition to suss out clues and figure out what really happened. She has no faith in D.I. Palmer, but does like the other detectives she works with and gives them the information she finds. Gus, her dachshund is often by her side during her search, but has a girlfriend in the village he likes to spend time with as well. This book had several suspects, who we got to know as the story unfolded. There were several red herrings as well, and Eve had to sort through them all. I kept waffling as I read thinking I had it figured out, but I was wrong, typical for me. The mystery was well plotted and interesting and as Eve discovers the killer and the motive, some sad information comes to light. Eve is also dealing with personal issues as Robin, her male friend is testifying in a dangerous trial in London and not only is she worried about him, but missing him and worried he might want to move back to London when the trial is over. Eve is a woman who is able to juggle a lot of goings on, as well as someone that others trust and depend on, and smart enough to figure out what is really happening. I am already anticipating the next Eve Mallow story. If you enjoy a good British Cozy Mystery, then I recommend you read the Eve Mallow series.
Mystery at Farfield Castle was another enjoyable cozy mystery set in a small, quaint English village. I have to say, I loved the eccentric, nosy busybodies in the village who share their information, guesses and gossips with Eve in hope of getting the scoop. Eve is a smart cookie, who uses her intuition to suss out clues and figure out what really happened. She has no faith in D.I. Palmer, but does like the other detectives she works with and gives them the information she finds. Gus, her dachshund is often by her side during her search, but has a girlfriend in the village he likes to spend time with as well. This book had several suspects, who we got to know as the story unfolded. There were several red herrings as well, and Eve had to sort through them all. I kept waffling as I read thinking I had it figured out, but I was wrong, typical for me. The mystery was well plotted and interesting and as Eve discovers the killer and the motive, some sad information comes to light. Eve is also dealing with personal issues as Robin, her male friend is testifying in a dangerous trial in London and not only is she worried about him, but missing him and worried he might want to move back to London when the trial is over. Eve is a woman who is able to juggle a lot of goings on, as well as someone that others trust and depend on, and smart enough to figure out what is really happening. I am already anticipating the next Eve Mallow story. If you enjoy a good British Cozy Mystery, then I recommend you read the Eve Mallow series.
December 1, 2024
Eve (who has a cute dog named Gus) mainly writes obituaries, but she is hired to do a write up on a new local writer's retreat to be held in Farfield Castle. The original owner's grandson has purchased the castle, and he and his sister are holding a welcome party when there is a murder. Eve is now tasked with writing an obit for the deceased, but with that pretext she starts to investigate, and learns some shocking secrets.
December 3, 2024
Monotonous
I only read through chapter 29, or 56 percent of the book but I quit reading before I started chapter 30. I realized the nothing of relevance was being introduced into the plot so I gave up reading. My interest in the mystery end as did my desire to know who did what.
The story started out well even without strong characters. The characters weren't really developed well from the beginning. After 29 chapters the characters were still weak.
I will stop here with my thoughts. The remainder of the story may have changed from the beginning. Maybe your interests will stronger than mine. I hope you enjoy the story
I only read through chapter 29, or 56 percent of the book but I quit reading before I started chapter 30. I realized the nothing of relevance was being introduced into the plot so I gave up reading. My interest in the mystery end as did my desire to know who did what.
The story started out well even without strong characters. The characters weren't really developed well from the beginning. After 29 chapters the characters were still weak.
I will stop here with my thoughts. The remainder of the story may have changed from the beginning. Maybe your interests will stronger than mine. I hope you enjoy the story
June 12, 2025
She's at it again
It seems that Eve Mellow cannot solve a mystery with almost getting killed and it's becoming rather wearing. Ms Chase needs to find another way for her to solve crimes. I mean Agatha Christie managed it in most of her books. I realise that not everyone can be as good as Ms Christie but surely it cannot be so difficult.
It seems that Eve Mellow cannot solve a mystery with almost getting killed and it's becoming rather wearing. Ms Chase needs to find another way for her to solve crimes. I mean Agatha Christie managed it in most of her books. I realise that not everyone can be as good as Ms Christie but surely it cannot be so difficult.
May 8, 2023
Everyone in Saxford may be invited to the party, but not everyone in Saxford will be welcomed there. When Kitty Marchant’s grandparents owned Farfield Castle, they had an open-door policy. Always willing to lend a helping hand, they were beloved, and people were shocked when they lost the castle and their son Benet refused to help them save their home.
The castle changed hands, and has now changed hands again due to Freya Hardwicke’s misfortune. Nate Marchant has bought the former family home, along with novelist and brother-in-law Julian Fisher, and they plan to make it into a writing retreat. So the village may be looking forward to the fete, but several people are unhappy that Farfield Castle won’t be available to the public. Local teacher Ella Tyndall would have allowed for that, but her bid for the castle was turned down.
Eve is on the premises to do a write-up on the writers’ retreat. As tends to happen, she finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation when Kitty is found dead in the icehouse. The officer in charge of the case can’t be trusted to handle it properly, as he’s more concerned with this new venture succeeding than actually finding the killer. So Eve, now tasked with writing Kitty’s obituary, keeps her eyes and ears open and does a little digging of her own.
Clare Chase gives us a wealth of suspects to chase down along with Eve. Seems like everyone has a secret. Why did Bonnie, Julian’s assistant, lie about the necklace Eve saw her wearing – a necklace that clearly upset Kitty? Is Luke, the other reporter on the scene, stalking Kitty? And what is Julian’s story? Everything he does seems shifty, somehow – hardly the actions of a loving husband.
Chase isn’t in a hurry to show us whodunnit here. She lets the tension build and takes us down some interesting rabbit trails and gives us bits and pieces of people’s backstories. The killer’s motivation turns out to have some pretty deep roots, indeed.
I also like that we see more of the relationship between Robin and Eve here. Robin isn’t directly involved in the story too much. He’s off in London, testifying against the people who had him in the witness protection program. But Eve stays in touch with him, and they’re in a good spot by the time the story ends.
This is such a delightful series! Eve is a genuinely likeable character, and she knows she walks a fine line. She can ask for a lot of information in her role as an obituary writer, but if she pushes too much, she risks the killer realizing she may know more than she should. And am fascinated with the idea of being an obituary writer. In my (admittedly limited) experience, the obituary is something written by the family. Maybe that’s because none of us have been well-known or famous!
Five stars for another enjoyable story that kept me guessing!
The castle changed hands, and has now changed hands again due to Freya Hardwicke’s misfortune. Nate Marchant has bought the former family home, along with novelist and brother-in-law Julian Fisher, and they plan to make it into a writing retreat. So the village may be looking forward to the fete, but several people are unhappy that Farfield Castle won’t be available to the public. Local teacher Ella Tyndall would have allowed for that, but her bid for the castle was turned down.
Eve is on the premises to do a write-up on the writers’ retreat. As tends to happen, she finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation when Kitty is found dead in the icehouse. The officer in charge of the case can’t be trusted to handle it properly, as he’s more concerned with this new venture succeeding than actually finding the killer. So Eve, now tasked with writing Kitty’s obituary, keeps her eyes and ears open and does a little digging of her own.
Clare Chase gives us a wealth of suspects to chase down along with Eve. Seems like everyone has a secret. Why did Bonnie, Julian’s assistant, lie about the necklace Eve saw her wearing – a necklace that clearly upset Kitty? Is Luke, the other reporter on the scene, stalking Kitty? And what is Julian’s story? Everything he does seems shifty, somehow – hardly the actions of a loving husband.
Chase isn’t in a hurry to show us whodunnit here. She lets the tension build and takes us down some interesting rabbit trails and gives us bits and pieces of people’s backstories. The killer’s motivation turns out to have some pretty deep roots, indeed.
I also like that we see more of the relationship between Robin and Eve here. Robin isn’t directly involved in the story too much. He’s off in London, testifying against the people who had him in the witness protection program. But Eve stays in touch with him, and they’re in a good spot by the time the story ends.
This is such a delightful series! Eve is a genuinely likeable character, and she knows she walks a fine line. She can ask for a lot of information in her role as an obituary writer, but if she pushes too much, she risks the killer realizing she may know more than she should. And am fascinated with the idea of being an obituary writer. In my (admittedly limited) experience, the obituary is something written by the family. Maybe that’s because none of us have been well-known or famous!
Five stars for another enjoyable story that kept me guessing!
May 15, 2023
"Mystery At Farfield Castle" is book #10 in the "Eve Mallow Mystery" series by Clare Chase.
"When novelist Julian Fisher buys Farfield Castle to turn the charming old building into a writers’ retreat, he wants the neighbours onside. But he has his work cut out: Saxford St Peter locals tried to buy the castle for the village, and are furious that only the very rich will be able to enjoy it.
At the lavish launch party, Fisher treats the villagers like royalty, but Eve Mallow is distracted by the tension in the air. She watches as Fisher’s wife Kitty argues with several guests, almost in tears, before she disappears altogether…
Later that evening, when Kitty is found dead in the castle’s icehouse, it’s quickly proved to be no accident. With dozy Detective Palmer on the wrong track, Eve can’t resist getting involved. Convinced the answers lie inside Farfield Castle, Eve questions an overly inquisitive journalist, Kitty’s less-than-loyal husband, and his prickly PA.
But when it emerges that a family heirloom and Julian’s computer both went missing on the night of the party, Eve is sure that solving the theft will solve the murder. Who is behind this deadly tale… and can Eve find the killer before she gets written off?"
My thoughts:
Clare Chase has woven another wonderfully complex but very entertaining mystery!
Eve Mallow is at the castle along with another journalist to write a piece promoting the new venture. What Eve sees and overhears leaves her feeling uneasy but even more so after Kitty is found dead.
Several viable suspects and even more unanswered questions! Eve puts her journalism research skills to work. With some inside police info from Boles via Robin, conversations with Viv and the somewhat questionable gossip from Moira, she slowly pieces things together to reveal a killer.
Just when you think you've figured out "who done it" and why - another snippet of information is uncovered and it leaves you wondering how it will all come out. Of course it does - in a dramatic, heart stopping scene!
Along with solving the mystery, there is an ongoing side story of Robin and his impending testimony against the shady officers he had taken down in London years earlier. Will they be brought to justice and thus allow Robin to finally live his life without fear?
I thoroughly enjoy this series and am already looking forward to the next book in this series which comes out later this year. I've already pre-ordered it for Kindle!
"When novelist Julian Fisher buys Farfield Castle to turn the charming old building into a writers’ retreat, he wants the neighbours onside. But he has his work cut out: Saxford St Peter locals tried to buy the castle for the village, and are furious that only the very rich will be able to enjoy it.
At the lavish launch party, Fisher treats the villagers like royalty, but Eve Mallow is distracted by the tension in the air. She watches as Fisher’s wife Kitty argues with several guests, almost in tears, before she disappears altogether…
Later that evening, when Kitty is found dead in the castle’s icehouse, it’s quickly proved to be no accident. With dozy Detective Palmer on the wrong track, Eve can’t resist getting involved. Convinced the answers lie inside Farfield Castle, Eve questions an overly inquisitive journalist, Kitty’s less-than-loyal husband, and his prickly PA.
But when it emerges that a family heirloom and Julian’s computer both went missing on the night of the party, Eve is sure that solving the theft will solve the murder. Who is behind this deadly tale… and can Eve find the killer before she gets written off?"
My thoughts:
Clare Chase has woven another wonderfully complex but very entertaining mystery!
Eve Mallow is at the castle along with another journalist to write a piece promoting the new venture. What Eve sees and overhears leaves her feeling uneasy but even more so after Kitty is found dead.
Several viable suspects and even more unanswered questions! Eve puts her journalism research skills to work. With some inside police info from Boles via Robin, conversations with Viv and the somewhat questionable gossip from Moira, she slowly pieces things together to reveal a killer.
Just when you think you've figured out "who done it" and why - another snippet of information is uncovered and it leaves you wondering how it will all come out. Of course it does - in a dramatic, heart stopping scene!
Along with solving the mystery, there is an ongoing side story of Robin and his impending testimony against the shady officers he had taken down in London years earlier. Will they be brought to justice and thus allow Robin to finally live his life without fear?
I thoroughly enjoy this series and am already looking forward to the next book in this series which comes out later this year. I've already pre-ordered it for Kindle!
May 3, 2023
Wowsers are we really at book 10! Obviously usual series rules apply and you don't need me to spell them out!
This time out, Eve Mallow is asked to take off her obituary writer's hat and is instead asked to attend and write a review for a writers' retreat at nearby Fairfield Castle which has recently come into new owners, Kitty and her novelist husband Julian Fisher. Their purchase of said castle has been controversial to say the least and the villagers are disappointed (understatement) that only the privileged will able to "enjoy" it going forward.
There's a launch party which does not go without incident as Eve feel tension in the air and she also witnesses Kitty arguing with several other guests. Upset, she rushes off. Fast forward to later that evening and, surprise surprise (not really for anyone who has read the previous books, and you have, haven't you?!) Kitty is found dead. In the castle's icehouse of all places...
It's a good thing that Eve is on hand to investigate, as always, as if you recall, Det Palmer, her nemesis is a bit on the useless side. Unfortunately, Eve is without her usual sidekick Robin as he is off testifying against those he is hiding from, a trial that, if it goes the right way, will mean he will be free. But Eve is not without other helpers as the whole village is more than interested in the shenanigans...
As with every previous book in this series it hit the ground running, held me captive throughout, spitting me out at the end exhausted but satisfied. Again I gave up second guessing quite early on and just went with the flow, enjoying the ride. And without any superfluous waffle or padding, the ride was quite a speedy one, with pacing matching the narrative throughout.
One thing I really do love and want to single out is the author's amazing skill with characterisation. Series characters and episode ones, main and bit part, every single one is well crafted and all play their parts with aplomb. I know you don't have to connect to all the characters in a book to make it a great read but it really does help make a reader's job easier if you can! And with this series, I most definitely do. And yes, I'm including the animals in this too :)
All in all, a cracking addition to an already well impressive series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
This time out, Eve Mallow is asked to take off her obituary writer's hat and is instead asked to attend and write a review for a writers' retreat at nearby Fairfield Castle which has recently come into new owners, Kitty and her novelist husband Julian Fisher. Their purchase of said castle has been controversial to say the least and the villagers are disappointed (understatement) that only the privileged will able to "enjoy" it going forward.
There's a launch party which does not go without incident as Eve feel tension in the air and she also witnesses Kitty arguing with several other guests. Upset, she rushes off. Fast forward to later that evening and, surprise surprise (not really for anyone who has read the previous books, and you have, haven't you?!) Kitty is found dead. In the castle's icehouse of all places...
It's a good thing that Eve is on hand to investigate, as always, as if you recall, Det Palmer, her nemesis is a bit on the useless side. Unfortunately, Eve is without her usual sidekick Robin as he is off testifying against those he is hiding from, a trial that, if it goes the right way, will mean he will be free. But Eve is not without other helpers as the whole village is more than interested in the shenanigans...
As with every previous book in this series it hit the ground running, held me captive throughout, spitting me out at the end exhausted but satisfied. Again I gave up second guessing quite early on and just went with the flow, enjoying the ride. And without any superfluous waffle or padding, the ride was quite a speedy one, with pacing matching the narrative throughout.
One thing I really do love and want to single out is the author's amazing skill with characterisation. Series characters and episode ones, main and bit part, every single one is well crafted and all play their parts with aplomb. I know you don't have to connect to all the characters in a book to make it a great read but it really does help make a reader's job easier if you can! And with this series, I most definitely do. And yes, I'm including the animals in this too :)
All in all, a cracking addition to an already well impressive series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
May 8, 2023
Twisty and Well Plotted Murder
Mystery at Fairfield Castle is the tenth book in the popular series by Clare Chase featuring the obituary writing amateur sleuth Eve Mallow and her dog Gus. This is the first book I’ve read in the series and the first book by this author. This installment takes Eve to Fairfield Castle which has been purchased by Julian and his wife Kitty to be turned into a writer’s retreat. Kitty Marchant’s grandparents owned the castle at one time but sold it to Freya and her husband to pay off debts. Freya, now in debt herself, was selling it and Julian, his wife Kitty and Kitty’s brother Nate had bought it. Ella Tyndall, a local historian and school teacher whose grandparents had worked for the Marchants had attempted to purchase it but was outbid. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to characters involved in the twisty and complicated plot that is ripe with red herrings. For me there were too many characters to keep track of and they all seemed to be introduced in the first few chapters. My mental murder board couldn’t keep up. I had to go back into the previous chapters I was reading to regain context. Perhaps, it was this initial congestion of information that created the slow pacing which took a while to build to any action. But, when the action did start it was very gratifying because it was unpredictable. Ms. Chase should not be faulted for providing fully developed characters with distinct backgrounds. I just prefer for their backgrounds to emerge over time. I also prefer to know more about my mamateur sleuths. I realize this is book ten but I would have enjoyed if more about Eve’s background had been reiterated or revealed than that of the suspects. It would have allowed me to become more invested in her. Instead, most of my exposure was through her internal dialogue and constant “what ifs” in any given situation in the story; too much internal dialogue and too many seemingly unrelated “what ifs”. Despite these reasons I have given the book a 5 star rating because I feel there are readers who, unlike me, will either appreciate or overlook these elements in favor of the twisty and well plotted murder. After all, these are not failings of the book but preferences of one reader. I’d like to thank #ClareChase, #Bookouture and #NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Mystery at Fairfield Castle is the tenth book in the popular series by Clare Chase featuring the obituary writing amateur sleuth Eve Mallow and her dog Gus. This is the first book I’ve read in the series and the first book by this author. This installment takes Eve to Fairfield Castle which has been purchased by Julian and his wife Kitty to be turned into a writer’s retreat. Kitty Marchant’s grandparents owned the castle at one time but sold it to Freya and her husband to pay off debts. Freya, now in debt herself, was selling it and Julian, his wife Kitty and Kitty’s brother Nate had bought it. Ella Tyndall, a local historian and school teacher whose grandparents had worked for the Marchants had attempted to purchase it but was outbid. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to characters involved in the twisty and complicated plot that is ripe with red herrings. For me there were too many characters to keep track of and they all seemed to be introduced in the first few chapters. My mental murder board couldn’t keep up. I had to go back into the previous chapters I was reading to regain context. Perhaps, it was this initial congestion of information that created the slow pacing which took a while to build to any action. But, when the action did start it was very gratifying because it was unpredictable. Ms. Chase should not be faulted for providing fully developed characters with distinct backgrounds. I just prefer for their backgrounds to emerge over time. I also prefer to know more about my mamateur sleuths. I realize this is book ten but I would have enjoyed if more about Eve’s background had been reiterated or revealed than that of the suspects. It would have allowed me to become more invested in her. Instead, most of my exposure was through her internal dialogue and constant “what ifs” in any given situation in the story; too much internal dialogue and too many seemingly unrelated “what ifs”. Despite these reasons I have given the book a 5 star rating because I feel there are readers who, unlike me, will either appreciate or overlook these elements in favor of the twisty and well plotted murder. After all, these are not failings of the book but preferences of one reader. I’d like to thank #ClareChase, #Bookouture and #NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2024
Mystery at Farfield Castle, the tenth book in Clare Chase’s Eve Mallow mystery series, is another gem. With an intrepid sleuth, a colorful cast of characters, family intrigue, and a foray into the English countryside, it’s a can’t miss novel.
Obituary writer Eve Mallow is stepping out of her comfort zone to write a review of a newly-created writers’ retreat at the behest of her editor. But when she arrives at Farfield Castle, things are not the pleasant sojourn she had imagined. When host Julian Fisher’s wife, Kitty, is found murdered, her assignment quickly turns from a society piece to an obituary. But first, she must solve not only Kitty’s murder but also the thefts that are quickly discovered thereafter, all of this without the help of the local police who seem bent upon mucking things up. Can she once again fend off danger and achieve justice for Kitty?
As this series progresses, it keeps getting better. Eve is, as always, inquisitive, logical, and intuitive. Equally important, she has a real reason to be where the bodies are – her job as a journalist. I like this realistic aspect of this series. Because the murder occurred at a party at the castle, there are a limited number of suspects. Yet there are so many facets to each of them, that there is plenty of intrigue. From family secrets to hidden relationships, there is always another layer for Eve to uncover. And the climax is particularly good. The writers’ retreat setting adds an extra element of interest. Eve’s relationship with boyfriend Robin has another turning point, and her ever-present dachshund, Gus, is as charming as usual.
If you are in the mood for an excellent British cozy mystery, I do recommend Mystery at Farfield Castle. While it can be read as a standalone, I encourage you to read all of the installments of this awesome series.
Note: I received an ARC of Mystery at Farfield Castle from NetGalley and Bookouture. The above is my honest review.
Obituary writer Eve Mallow is stepping out of her comfort zone to write a review of a newly-created writers’ retreat at the behest of her editor. But when she arrives at Farfield Castle, things are not the pleasant sojourn she had imagined. When host Julian Fisher’s wife, Kitty, is found murdered, her assignment quickly turns from a society piece to an obituary. But first, she must solve not only Kitty’s murder but also the thefts that are quickly discovered thereafter, all of this without the help of the local police who seem bent upon mucking things up. Can she once again fend off danger and achieve justice for Kitty?
As this series progresses, it keeps getting better. Eve is, as always, inquisitive, logical, and intuitive. Equally important, she has a real reason to be where the bodies are – her job as a journalist. I like this realistic aspect of this series. Because the murder occurred at a party at the castle, there are a limited number of suspects. Yet there are so many facets to each of them, that there is plenty of intrigue. From family secrets to hidden relationships, there is always another layer for Eve to uncover. And the climax is particularly good. The writers’ retreat setting adds an extra element of interest. Eve’s relationship with boyfriend Robin has another turning point, and her ever-present dachshund, Gus, is as charming as usual.
If you are in the mood for an excellent British cozy mystery, I do recommend Mystery at Farfield Castle. While it can be read as a standalone, I encourage you to read all of the installments of this awesome series.
Note: I received an ARC of Mystery at Farfield Castle from NetGalley and Bookouture. The above is my honest review.
May 12, 2023
Mystery at Farfield Castle by Clare Chase is another Eve Mallow mystery. Things have changed for Eve. Robin is no longer in hiding and using a fake identity. In fact he is currently in London preparing to testify and to work on some additional projects. Eve missed him and she wondered if he were going to leave and if they were done. She is at Farfield Castle, a local castle that was reopening as a writers’ retreat. The owners were a brother and sister, grandchildren of the long-time owners and the sister’s husband, who was a published author. It was lovely but everyone worried whether they community would have the same access they had in the past. The bidder that lost had planned a community center. Then, a scream. Someone had discovered Kitty, the female owner, dead in the icehouse, a place normally locked.
Eve is a 50-something obituary writer who accepted commissions from large magazines. In this case she had accepted the assignment of covering the grand opening of the castle retreat. The grand opening would obviously be postponed but she and another reporter were invited to stay and sample the amenities despite the murder. This was a difficult investigation, especially given that her partner, Robin, was available only by telephone and text. There were a half dozen suspects, all with motives that were obvious. She also had the responsibility of researching for the obituary, which is how she normally investigated. So, she carried on, visiting her house and her dog as often was possible, as well as sources of information (gossip) in the village. Eve is an interesting, well-written character and it was an intriguing and sad outcome as it all came to an end.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Mystery at Farfield Castle by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #ClareChase #MysteryAtFarfieldCastle
Eve is a 50-something obituary writer who accepted commissions from large magazines. In this case she had accepted the assignment of covering the grand opening of the castle retreat. The grand opening would obviously be postponed but she and another reporter were invited to stay and sample the amenities despite the murder. This was a difficult investigation, especially given that her partner, Robin, was available only by telephone and text. There were a half dozen suspects, all with motives that were obvious. She also had the responsibility of researching for the obituary, which is how she normally investigated. So, she carried on, visiting her house and her dog as often was possible, as well as sources of information (gossip) in the village. Eve is an interesting, well-written character and it was an intriguing and sad outcome as it all came to an end.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Mystery at Farfield Castle by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #ClareChase #MysteryAtFarfieldCastle
April 10, 2023
Book Title: Mystery at Fairfield Castle
Series: An Eve Mallow Mystery Book 10
Author: Claire Chase
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: May 5, 2023
My Rating: 4.18 Stars
Eve Mallow is a sympathetic obituary writer; but does have an inquisitive side making her good at being an amateur sleuth.
Eve has accepted a writing commission ~ (first time in twenty year as It isn’t an obituary) to write about the grand opening of a new writers’ retreat; additional has been invited to a launch party. The new Farfield Castle will be run by novelist Julian Fisher his wife Kitty Marchant and her brother Nate Marchant ~ Nate has put up the money, Julian will act as mentor, and Kitty will conduct exercise classes.
However the Saxford St Peter locals are disgruntled as Ella Tyndall one of their own- a local teacher and historian had raised funds to purchase the castle for the villagers to use and enjoy as a community but Nate out bid her. Instead it is being turned into a luxury writer’s retreat which means only the wealthy will be able to enjoy it.
Side note Kitty’s grandparents one lived at Farfield and Kitty was involved in some scandal and created some enemies. Now Kitty disappears, and her body was found in the Farfield Icehouse.
Hmmm is this all related?
I have no doubt that Eve will track down the killer and solve the case!
I always enjoy reading the author’s ‘Acknowledgements’ as well as the ‘Author’s note’. In this case ‘A letter from Clare’.
She tells us that she hopes we have fun trying to solve this case!
I laughed out loud as true I enjoyed this but wasn’t close to solving it!
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for May 5, 2023
Series: An Eve Mallow Mystery Book 10
Author: Claire Chase
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: May 5, 2023
My Rating: 4.18 Stars
Eve Mallow is a sympathetic obituary writer; but does have an inquisitive side making her good at being an amateur sleuth.
Eve has accepted a writing commission ~ (first time in twenty year as It isn’t an obituary) to write about the grand opening of a new writers’ retreat; additional has been invited to a launch party. The new Farfield Castle will be run by novelist Julian Fisher his wife Kitty Marchant and her brother Nate Marchant ~ Nate has put up the money, Julian will act as mentor, and Kitty will conduct exercise classes.
However the Saxford St Peter locals are disgruntled as Ella Tyndall one of their own- a local teacher and historian had raised funds to purchase the castle for the villagers to use and enjoy as a community but Nate out bid her. Instead it is being turned into a luxury writer’s retreat which means only the wealthy will be able to enjoy it.
Side note Kitty’s grandparents one lived at Farfield and Kitty was involved in some scandal and created some enemies. Now Kitty disappears, and her body was found in the Farfield Icehouse.
Hmmm is this all related?
I have no doubt that Eve will track down the killer and solve the case!
I always enjoy reading the author’s ‘Acknowledgements’ as well as the ‘Author’s note’. In this case ‘A letter from Clare’.
She tells us that she hopes we have fun trying to solve this case!
I laughed out loud as true I enjoyed this but wasn’t close to solving it!
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for May 5, 2023
March 22, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley & author Clare Chase for allowing me to have a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
This is the first book I have read by Clare Chase, but it certainly won’t be the last. Over the past few weeks I have fallen head over heels for cozy mysteries and Mystery at Farfield Castle was the perfect book to add to my ever growing collection.
Amateur sleuth Eve Mallow & the rest of the Saxford St Peter locals head to Farfield Castle after being invited to a launch party by the owners Kitty & Julian Fisher. Sadly with the locals still being furious that they missed out at being able to buy the property for the village, now only the rich will be able to enjoy it. As tension hangs in the air & angry words fly, Kitty Fisher disappears, only to have her body found in the Farfield Icehouse. Can Eve track down the killer and solve the case?
Mystery at Farfield Castle was amazing, I couldn’t get over how detailed it was, it was so engaging, kept me hooked the whole way through, there were so many twists & turns that trying to figure out who killed Kitty was simply impossible, and then the ending was such a shock, but truly brilliant. As I read the majority of the book before I went to sleep, I ended up dreaming about it as I was thinking about it so much before going to sleep. I’m so happy that there are another 9 books in the Eve Mallow Mystery series, I cannot wait to get my hands on them.
This is the first book I have read by Clare Chase, but it certainly won’t be the last. Over the past few weeks I have fallen head over heels for cozy mysteries and Mystery at Farfield Castle was the perfect book to add to my ever growing collection.
Amateur sleuth Eve Mallow & the rest of the Saxford St Peter locals head to Farfield Castle after being invited to a launch party by the owners Kitty & Julian Fisher. Sadly with the locals still being furious that they missed out at being able to buy the property for the village, now only the rich will be able to enjoy it. As tension hangs in the air & angry words fly, Kitty Fisher disappears, only to have her body found in the Farfield Icehouse. Can Eve track down the killer and solve the case?
Mystery at Farfield Castle was amazing, I couldn’t get over how detailed it was, it was so engaging, kept me hooked the whole way through, there were so many twists & turns that trying to figure out who killed Kitty was simply impossible, and then the ending was such a shock, but truly brilliant. As I read the majority of the book before I went to sleep, I ended up dreaming about it as I was thinking about it so much before going to sleep. I’m so happy that there are another 9 books in the Eve Mallow Mystery series, I cannot wait to get my hands on them.
April 30, 2023
Ding, dong bell
Kitty's in the well.
Who pushed her in?
Let the investigations begin!
Eve Mallow is invited to Farfield Castle to stay
To write about their planned writers' retreat and open day.
A launch party with locals coming, too,
Should be a fun, not gruesome, do.
But when Kitty's body is found down the ice house well
She's been murdered the evidence soon will tell.
But who is the perpetrator and why?
Eve Mallow's seeking where the answers lie.
Hidden relationships, secrets being hidden, too,
Eve hopes the truth will win a way through.
Kitty's husband and his prickly PA,
Kitty's brother and the ex castle owner all have a say.
A family heirloom and a laptop both disappear
Why should they go, it isn't clear.
Another journalist is asking questions galore
Just what is it that he's looking for?
With accusations, liaisons, secrets and dreams
Maybe nothing is quite as it seems.
The community folks support Eve's search, too,
Sharing what they saw, where and who.
Putting together the pieces to find what's true,
Ignoring red herrings, that's what Eve will do.
Get ready for twist and surprises galore
Especially those the police inspector will ignore!
I'm really enjoying this series of mysteries
With great characters, plots and their histories.
For Eve there's danger and romance,
But she won't give the killer any chance!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
Kitty's in the well.
Who pushed her in?
Let the investigations begin!
Eve Mallow is invited to Farfield Castle to stay
To write about their planned writers' retreat and open day.
A launch party with locals coming, too,
Should be a fun, not gruesome, do.
But when Kitty's body is found down the ice house well
She's been murdered the evidence soon will tell.
But who is the perpetrator and why?
Eve Mallow's seeking where the answers lie.
Hidden relationships, secrets being hidden, too,
Eve hopes the truth will win a way through.
Kitty's husband and his prickly PA,
Kitty's brother and the ex castle owner all have a say.
A family heirloom and a laptop both disappear
Why should they go, it isn't clear.
Another journalist is asking questions galore
Just what is it that he's looking for?
With accusations, liaisons, secrets and dreams
Maybe nothing is quite as it seems.
The community folks support Eve's search, too,
Sharing what they saw, where and who.
Putting together the pieces to find what's true,
Ignoring red herrings, that's what Eve will do.
Get ready for twist and surprises galore
Especially those the police inspector will ignore!
I'm really enjoying this series of mysteries
With great characters, plots and their histories.
For Eve there's danger and romance,
But she won't give the killer any chance!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
May 6, 2023
Avid readers always hope for a new to them series that has many books to enjoy. This is one of those for me. With ten books in the series and another one due at the end of the year, I see a reading binge in my future. The setting is lovely, the mystery kept me guessing and I enjoyed spending my reading time in the company of Eve Mallow.
Eve writes obits but this time she is asked to write a review of Farfield Castle which has been sold (much to the anger of the community as they wanted to buy it for local use) and is going to be turned into a writer's retreat. At the party the new owners host for the village to win them over it goes rather badly. His wife has words with several locals and then leaves the party. The next time she is seen she is dead in the ice house. Somebody at the party might be the killer and the local plod, Det. Palmer is, shall I say, not up to the task. Eve is far better at solving murders and she starts her own hunt for the killer. The motive and the killer are most likely tied to the Castle as the victim's grandparents once lived in the Castle. Time to search some castle closets for a secret or two and solve both a murder and a theft.
I'm looking forward to catching up on Eve's past investigations. The puzzle was solid, keeping me guessing wrong to the very end and the development of the characters was excellent. My thanks to the publisher Bookouture and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Eve writes obits but this time she is asked to write a review of Farfield Castle which has been sold (much to the anger of the community as they wanted to buy it for local use) and is going to be turned into a writer's retreat. At the party the new owners host for the village to win them over it goes rather badly. His wife has words with several locals and then leaves the party. The next time she is seen she is dead in the ice house. Somebody at the party might be the killer and the local plod, Det. Palmer is, shall I say, not up to the task. Eve is far better at solving murders and she starts her own hunt for the killer. The motive and the killer are most likely tied to the Castle as the victim's grandparents once lived in the Castle. Time to search some castle closets for a secret or two and solve both a murder and a theft.
I'm looking forward to catching up on Eve's past investigations. The puzzle was solid, keeping me guessing wrong to the very end and the development of the characters was excellent. My thanks to the publisher Bookouture and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2023
When novelist Julian Fisher & his wife Kitty & her brother Nate Merchant buy Farfield Castle to turn the charming old building into a writers’ retreat, they want the neighbours onside. But they have their work cut out: Saxford St Peter locals tried to buy the castle for the village, and are furious that only the very rich will be able to enjoy it plus the castle once belonged to Nate & Kitty’s grandparents who lost the castle when they were swindled. Eve Mallow & fellow journalist Luke are invited to write articles to promote the castle. However at the launch party tensions run high & later that evening, Kitty is found dead in the castle’s icehouse & it’s quickly proved to be no accident. Of course Eve has to investigate
The tenth book in the series & whilst it’s easily read on its own the characters & relationships in Saxford have grown & developed. Eve is a delight & is like a dog with a bone, she has her close friend Viv & Robin to bounce theories off plus they are there for back up, Robin less so in this book as he’s involved in the trial of the corrupt officers. Another well written page turner with wonderful characters. There are twists, turns & surprises before the villain is revealed & once again I didn't guess the murderer. I also loved Eve's turmoil over her relationship with Robin & loved the ending
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The tenth book in the series & whilst it’s easily read on its own the characters & relationships in Saxford have grown & developed. Eve is a delight & is like a dog with a bone, she has her close friend Viv & Robin to bounce theories off plus they are there for back up, Robin less so in this book as he’s involved in the trial of the corrupt officers. Another well written page turner with wonderful characters. There are twists, turns & surprises before the villain is revealed & once again I didn't guess the murderer. I also loved Eve's turmoil over her relationship with Robin & loved the ending
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 26, 2023
Mystery at Farfield Castle is the first book I've read from the Eve Mallow series (which has 10 books so far), but it felt like I hadn't missed out on any of the plot by reading it as a standalone. I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the series! It has loveable characters - Gus the Daschund is one of my favourites - a gorgeous setting in a qauint little English village, and a lot of potential suspects to whittle down. The way it's written, and the discussions with characters such as Viv and Robin, made me feel as though I was part of the investigation myself. I had a little mental checklist going of who had done what, and just when I thought I had it all figured out, the twist threw my theories out of the window, and I loved that about it!
I'd definitely recommend this book for anyone who loves a good murder mystery!
Synopsis~
Eve Mallow is a writer, her job mainly consists of writing obituaries, but sometimes she branches out to other subjects. When she is invited to write an article on a new writers' retreat at Farfield Castle, she quickly becomes aware of the tension, resentment, and betrayal surrounding the new owners of the building - and when one of them is killed at the launch party, Eve makes it her mission to bring the killer to justice.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Clare Chase for sending me this book.
I'd definitely recommend this book for anyone who loves a good murder mystery!
Synopsis~
Eve Mallow is a writer, her job mainly consists of writing obituaries, but sometimes she branches out to other subjects. When she is invited to write an article on a new writers' retreat at Farfield Castle, she quickly becomes aware of the tension, resentment, and betrayal surrounding the new owners of the building - and when one of them is killed at the launch party, Eve makes it her mission to bring the killer to justice.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Clare Chase for sending me this book.
February 20, 2025
Three celebrities prepare to open a retreat and Eve Mallow has been asked to write a review. However, she is soon back to her day job of obituary writer when one of the owners Kitty is found murdered. And of course, Eve can't resist investigating the death herself...
Mystery at Farfield Castle is the 10th cosy murder mystery novel featuring Eve, her dog Gus and boyfriend Robin.
Eve is a bit nervous of going outside her comfort zone and doing a review rather than an obituary but the fates soon conspire to put her at her ease! Eve has observed several incidents which indicate friction between different characters so once the murder takes places she needs to assess what she has seen and heard.
There are a limited number of suspects present at the castle and each has a different motive so Eve has to dig deeper under the guise of writing the obituary. We do get to return to the familiar territory of the village and Eve's friends so she can discuss the background to the characters and events.
On the personal side of the plot, Eve's boyfriend Robin's circumstances have changed and this gives her pause for thought. The dynamic between them has also altered now that they are not keeping their relationship or his true identity secret. Eve is accompanied once more by her dog Gus throughout.
Mystery at Farfield Castle is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
Mystery at Farfield Castle is the 10th cosy murder mystery novel featuring Eve, her dog Gus and boyfriend Robin.
Eve is a bit nervous of going outside her comfort zone and doing a review rather than an obituary but the fates soon conspire to put her at her ease! Eve has observed several incidents which indicate friction between different characters so once the murder takes places she needs to assess what she has seen and heard.
There are a limited number of suspects present at the castle and each has a different motive so Eve has to dig deeper under the guise of writing the obituary. We do get to return to the familiar territory of the village and Eve's friends so she can discuss the background to the characters and events.
On the personal side of the plot, Eve's boyfriend Robin's circumstances have changed and this gives her pause for thought. The dynamic between them has also altered now that they are not keeping their relationship or his true identity secret. Eve is accompanied once more by her dog Gus throughout.
Mystery at Farfield Castle is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
March 9, 2023
Eve Mallow writes obituaries for a living. She’s good at them, is caring and sympathetic, and alongside her inquisitive nature, they have led her into a life of crime solving. Her latest job, however, is completely different and just a little contentious. The residents of her village, Saxford St Peter, tried unsuccessfully to purchase nearby Farfield Castle but instead it's being turned into a luxury writers retreat and, along with another journalist, has been hired to write about the grand opening.
When a body is found in the lavish grounds, Eve finds her two jobs merging, and, unfortunately, her nemesis, Detective Palmer, is on the case. With the owners asking her to stay and finish her assignment, Eve knows she has to investigate as well before someone is charged with a murder they didn't commit.
Book ten in this brilliant series takes Eve in a new direction and I was glad Farfield Castle was close enough to home that all the main protagonists could still be involved and I have to admit I had no idea whodunnit or why until I was supposed to which is always a bonus.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this and recommend it highly.
When a body is found in the lavish grounds, Eve finds her two jobs merging, and, unfortunately, her nemesis, Detective Palmer, is on the case. With the owners asking her to stay and finish her assignment, Eve knows she has to investigate as well before someone is charged with a murder they didn't commit.
Book ten in this brilliant series takes Eve in a new direction and I was glad Farfield Castle was close enough to home that all the main protagonists could still be involved and I have to admit I had no idea whodunnit or why until I was supposed to which is always a bonus.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this and recommend it highly.
May 5, 2023
Julian Fisher, novelist buys Farfield Castle and he wants to turn it into a writers’ retreat. But the villagers wanted to buy the castle and keep it for themselves. Julian throws a lavish party and invites all the villagers to attend. He serves the very best food and treats the villagers like royalty. Amateur sleuth Eve Mallow, wants to enjoy the party but hears a scuffle and recognizes the voice of Kitty, Julian’s wife arguing with some of the guests. Not long after, Kitty’s body is found in the castle’s icehouse. Eve jumps into action and begins to solve the case. So many guests had motive but time is running out and she must work with Detective Palmer to find the killer, before the killer strikes again.
Mystery at Farfield Castle by author Clare Chase is a wonderful addition to the Eve Mallow Mystery Series. This story was utterly entertaining and as soon as I had it all figured out, the twist happened. I was completely surprised at the ending and I loved how captivating this story was. This was one cozy mystery that kept me flying through the pages. Each installment continues to be a delightful read, and keeps this series on my favorites list. I loved it, and I highly recommend it.
Mystery at Farfield Castle by author Clare Chase is a wonderful addition to the Eve Mallow Mystery Series. This story was utterly entertaining and as soon as I had it all figured out, the twist happened. I was completely surprised at the ending and I loved how captivating this story was. This was one cozy mystery that kept me flying through the pages. Each installment continues to be a delightful read, and keeps this series on my favorites list. I loved it, and I highly recommend it.
April 1, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley & Clare Chase for allowing me to have a free copy of this book in exchange for my unprejudiced review.
I've been following the Eve Mallow Mystery series for quite some time now and am never disappointed. Eve is a sympathetic obituary writer and sleuth and her sidekicks Viv and Robin are nice characters too.
I remember that the last episode I found the plot a bit overly complicated but this time Eve is right back on track with what might just be her best episode in this series yet. Eve has been invited to write an article about Farfield Castle, a venue very near to where she lives, which has been turned into a writers’ retreat, For the opening evening all the villagers and a couple of other people have been invited to join in the celebrations, but this being the Eve Mallow mysteries violent death is spoiling the party when Kitty, one of the castles owners, is found dead in the former ice-house.
So now Eve has a double task, writing the article about the Castle turned writers retreat and writing Kitty's obituary, and off course, solving the murder(s) while doing so.
Another great episode in this series.
I've been following the Eve Mallow Mystery series for quite some time now and am never disappointed. Eve is a sympathetic obituary writer and sleuth and her sidekicks Viv and Robin are nice characters too.
I remember that the last episode I found the plot a bit overly complicated but this time Eve is right back on track with what might just be her best episode in this series yet. Eve has been invited to write an article about Farfield Castle, a venue very near to where she lives, which has been turned into a writers’ retreat, For the opening evening all the villagers and a couple of other people have been invited to join in the celebrations, but this being the Eve Mallow mysteries violent death is spoiling the party when Kitty, one of the castles owners, is found dead in the former ice-house.
So now Eve has a double task, writing the article about the Castle turned writers retreat and writing Kitty's obituary, and off course, solving the murder(s) while doing so.
Another great episode in this series.
April 11, 2023
Book 10 in this delightful cozy crime series sees obituary writer Eve Mallow and her gorgeous dachshund Gus staying at a local castle, soon to be developed into a writers retreat. She is there as a journalist to give readers of her paper an insight into the project.
It is widely frowned on by the locals in her community as the previous owners had generously shared the land with them for picnics and walks. Eve is determined to be neutral and all is well until one of the new owners is found dead at the launch party.
Great lovable characters known now from previous books appear and Eve’s boyfriend Robin is featured as he is also nearing the end of a case in which he has helped to expose fellow police who were corrupt.
Well written and a twisting plot which really kept me guessing as to who was the murderer. Best read as a series to get the most of the building of the characters and their lives, but equally can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
It is widely frowned on by the locals in her community as the previous owners had generously shared the land with them for picnics and walks. Eve is determined to be neutral and all is well until one of the new owners is found dead at the launch party.
Great lovable characters known now from previous books appear and Eve’s boyfriend Robin is featured as he is also nearing the end of a case in which he has helped to expose fellow police who were corrupt.
Well written and a twisting plot which really kept me guessing as to who was the murderer. Best read as a series to get the most of the building of the characters and their lives, but equally can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2023
I’m sure I read all the novels in this series, and this means I love it and it’s the tenth time I read and review an Eve Mallow mystery.
Eve, Gus, Robin and Viv are sort of friends you meet from time to time, catch up with them, have fun and share the joy for the positive changes in their life.
Clare Chase created relatable characters and made them change and evolve, except Gus but he’s a big part of my enjoyment.
This is a bit darker than the other novels: there’s secrets, there’s a divided family, betrayals and a village who is not happy about the new owner of Fairfield Castle.
A solid mystery with a lot of surprises, twists, and an adrenalinic last part that kept me reading till late in the night.
I had fun, I wish I could visit a place like Fairfield Castle and felt for the victims.
Another winner in this series that could be read as a stand-alone but can be fully appreciated it you read the previous novels.
Can’t wait to read the next stories.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this arc, all opinions are mine
Eve, Gus, Robin and Viv are sort of friends you meet from time to time, catch up with them, have fun and share the joy for the positive changes in their life.
Clare Chase created relatable characters and made them change and evolve, except Gus but he’s a big part of my enjoyment.
This is a bit darker than the other novels: there’s secrets, there’s a divided family, betrayals and a village who is not happy about the new owner of Fairfield Castle.
A solid mystery with a lot of surprises, twists, and an adrenalinic last part that kept me reading till late in the night.
I had fun, I wish I could visit a place like Fairfield Castle and felt for the victims.
Another winner in this series that could be read as a stand-alone but can be fully appreciated it you read the previous novels.
Can’t wait to read the next stories.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this arc, all opinions are mine
June 4, 2023
A castle in Saxford St. Peter that had been owned by a private family for years has recently been sold to someone who plans to transform it into a posh writer's retreat. Eve Mallow (who writes for Icon Magazine) and Luke Shipley, a writer for Cascade Magazine, were both invited to spend complimentary weeklong stays so they could do articles about Farfield Castle to be published in their respective magazines. But on the night of the huge launch party which village locals were invited to attend, Kitty Marchant, a member of the family who bought the castle, is brutally murdered. Now Eve will be staying on to write Kitty's obituary while sifting through clues to find the killer.
In the previous book, the people who Robin had been hiding from had finally been put behind bars so he was free to come out into the open. In this installment the trial is underway in London. Robin is staying there to testify. Eve misses him but also realizes their relationship is bound to change one way or another. We find out how at the end of this book.
In the previous book, the people who Robin had been hiding from had finally been put behind bars so he was free to come out into the open. In this installment the trial is underway in London. Robin is staying there to testify. Eve misses him but also realizes their relationship is bound to change one way or another. We find out how at the end of this book.
April 15, 2023
How is this already Eve Mallow's 10th sleuthing adventure? Time flies! But I've envoyed every book in the series and this one is no exception. As usual, I was happy to see the recurring characters again, and of course it's always a joy to discover new secrets as Eve meets new people who have a lot to hide. This time, she's sent to write an article about the opening of a writing retreat, but she soon finds herself interviewing people for the obituary of a murder victim again. Usual pattern, new set of suspects with interesting secrets - another success, in my opinion.
Now for those who haven't read the previous books yet: this one wouldn't spoil the ending of either of the others but would reveal the secret of one suspect from the first, so I still recommend to start with the first book (unless you really don't mind partial spoilers). After that, the reading order is less important.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Now for those who haven't read the previous books yet: this one wouldn't spoil the ending of either of the others but would reveal the secret of one suspect from the first, so I still recommend to start with the first book (unless you really don't mind partial spoilers). After that, the reading order is less important.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2023
An engaging mystery for intrepid Eve Mallow to solve at Farfield Castle. Kitty meets an untimely end, but why? That question faces Eve when she finds her assignment has taken a deadly turn of events. The suspects are many, including the villagers she knows well, the castle has an unlucky history, but when a theft coincides with Kitty's death, the motives and suspects widen. The mystery is readable as a standalone, but the character development is most appreciated if you've read the previous books. The castle setting makes the story atmospheric, and the family dynamic is intriguing too. I like this story's characters, mystery and clever protagonist.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 3, 2023
Another Good One
I do look forward to the notifications that a new book in the series has been released. These books are smart and clever. The writing is solid and the plots make sense. If British cozy mystery is your guilty pleasure,Clare Chase is the Author for you. Next boom out this coming November. You should read the series in order. The progression of the main characters will make more sense. But it isn't absolutely necessary. Well done to MS Chase. A loyal reader in the States.
I do look forward to the notifications that a new book in the series has been released. These books are smart and clever. The writing is solid and the plots make sense. If British cozy mystery is your guilty pleasure,Clare Chase is the Author for you. Next boom out this coming November. You should read the series in order. The progression of the main characters will make more sense. But it isn't absolutely necessary. Well done to MS Chase. A loyal reader in the States.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews