What do you think?
Rate this book
Exham on Sea Mysteries #8
Murder at the Abbey
The Brand NEW instalment in the bestselling Exham-on-Sea series. An unsolved murder echoes down the corridors of Cleeve Abbey for years. The Exham-on-Sea’s History Society's annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River, beside historic Cleeve Abbey.Thrilled to find evidence of a possible centuries-old murder mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost-hunting night in the ruins of Cleeve Abbey, despite amateur sleuth Libby Forest's reservations.Libby is a woman of many talents, a baker, chocolatier, even a reluctant sleuth, but she's no fan of the supernatural.and her doubts are justified when a friend is attacked under cover of darkness at the ghost-hunt.Distressed and angry, Libby sets out with her new husband Max and their two dogs Bear and Shipley to uncover the connection between the murder of a sixteenth century monk and a present-day attack in picturesque Somerset.With friends and neighbours as suspects, Libby and Max close in on the culprit only to find that others are still in danger.There's no time to lose as the sins of the past threaten lives in the community.Murder at the Abbey is the eighth in a series of Exham-on-Sea Murder Mysteries from the small English seaside town full of quirky characters, sea air, and gossip.If you love Agatha Christie-style mysteries, cosy crime, clever dogs and cake, then you'll love these intriguing whodunnits.'
Hardcover
202 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
February 22, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I don't hand out 5 stars all that often, but this book checked off all the boxes for me! Well written. Well paced. Stood up well as a standalone. A fantastic setting. A plot that was both engaging (kept me guessing) and educational (loved the bits of history sprinkled throughout), and a plethora of likable characters. Throw in a little ghost hunting and it was pretty much a perfect book. I can't wait to see what is up next for the lovely people of Exham-on-Sea!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
December 3, 2021
When human bones are discovered in the river, Libby and the rest of the historical society are excited to learn they most likely belonged to a 16th century monk from the nearby abbey. They organize on overnight ghost hunt, which results in the attack of a friend. Now, Libby and Max must try to identify the culprit before someone else is injured.
Although this is the eighth book in the series, it is the first one I have read. The story contains a lot of background information, most of which felt as if it were from earlier stories, that continues through most of the book. Much of it felt irrelevant to the story, both while I was reading it and even by the end of the book. Some of the information is repeated multiple times during the first few times and was information I would have rather seen than be told upfront. Some of it was also introduced at awkward times, distracting from the flow of the story. Even many chapters into the book, it was still telling me about previous mysteries that did not feel like they related to the current story. For the information that was relevant to the story, it never felt as if it were introduced in the right place.
Similarly, the dialogue felt unnatural, as if the character was giving information for the reader's benefit, not as if they were speaking to someone they knew, especially Max and Libby, who are married.
I was about 2/3 of the way through the book before the book finally hooked me. I never reached the "I can't put this down" stage. As for the mystery itself, I wasn't really thrilled with the motive because, if I understood it correctly, it was over 500 years old. It felt like a very long time to hold such a grudge.
However, I did enjoy the characters and may try to go back to the first books in the series to see how they all met.
Although this is the eighth book in the series, it is the first one I have read. The story contains a lot of background information, most of which felt as if it were from earlier stories, that continues through most of the book. Much of it felt irrelevant to the story, both while I was reading it and even by the end of the book. Some of the information is repeated multiple times during the first few times and was information I would have rather seen than be told upfront. Some of it was also introduced at awkward times, distracting from the flow of the story. Even many chapters into the book, it was still telling me about previous mysteries that did not feel like they related to the current story. For the information that was relevant to the story, it never felt as if it were introduced in the right place.
Similarly, the dialogue felt unnatural, as if the character was giving information for the reader's benefit, not as if they were speaking to someone they knew, especially Max and Libby, who are married.
I was about 2/3 of the way through the book before the book finally hooked me. I never reached the "I can't put this down" stage. As for the mystery itself, I wasn't really thrilled with the motive because, if I understood it correctly, it was over 500 years old. It felt like a very long time to hold such a grudge.
However, I did enjoy the characters and may try to go back to the first books in the series to see how they all met.
November 6, 2021
Barbara’s rating: 4 of 5 stars
Series: Exham-on-Sea Murder Mysteries #8
Publication Date: 11/11/21
Period: Contemporary Exham On Sea, Somerset, UK
Number of Pages: 262
Somerset is enjoying a particularly lovely June with little rain, plenty of sunshine, lovely temperatures, and gorgeous blue skies, which makes a perfect setting for the History Society’s annual picnic which is being held at the ancient Cleeve Abbey this year. Libby Forest and her new husband Max Ramshore have brought their very energetic dog, Shipley, and are thoroughly enjoying the surroundings and the company. At least they are until retired, unmarried schoolteacher, Jemima Bakewell finds a bone in the nearby Washford River. Soon, the attendees unearth a human skull. Are these ancient bones from the Abbey graveyard or are they more current?
When anthropologist Charlie Foxglove and her assistant Rory get involved with dating the bones, and a want-to-be TV ghost hunter personality stages a sleepover ‘event’ at the Abbey, things really begin to heat up. There is a brutal, near-fatal attack as well as thefts and murder. What ties them all together? Is there a relationship between the ancient bones and the current crimes? Never fear, Libby and Max are on the case.
As always, there are lots of other things going on in the story – just as there would be in real life. We learn more of the backstories of several characters – old and new – and we get fun time with Bear, Shipley, and Fuzzy.
It was interesting to see how the ancient bones and the new crimes were/weren’t connected. The perpetrator was unexpected and the motives were convoluted and a bit muddled. I enjoyed the read and can recommend it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Exham-on-Sea Murder Mysteries #8
Publication Date: 11/11/21
Period: Contemporary Exham On Sea, Somerset, UK
Number of Pages: 262
Somerset is enjoying a particularly lovely June with little rain, plenty of sunshine, lovely temperatures, and gorgeous blue skies, which makes a perfect setting for the History Society’s annual picnic which is being held at the ancient Cleeve Abbey this year. Libby Forest and her new husband Max Ramshore have brought their very energetic dog, Shipley, and are thoroughly enjoying the surroundings and the company. At least they are until retired, unmarried schoolteacher, Jemima Bakewell finds a bone in the nearby Washford River. Soon, the attendees unearth a human skull. Are these ancient bones from the Abbey graveyard or are they more current?
When anthropologist Charlie Foxglove and her assistant Rory get involved with dating the bones, and a want-to-be TV ghost hunter personality stages a sleepover ‘event’ at the Abbey, things really begin to heat up. There is a brutal, near-fatal attack as well as thefts and murder. What ties them all together? Is there a relationship between the ancient bones and the current crimes? Never fear, Libby and Max are on the case.
As always, there are lots of other things going on in the story – just as there would be in real life. We learn more of the backstories of several characters – old and new – and we get fun time with Bear, Shipley, and Fuzzy.
It was interesting to see how the ancient bones and the new crimes were/weren’t connected. The perpetrator was unexpected and the motives were convoluted and a bit muddled. I enjoyed the read and can recommend it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 21, 2025
Good mystery.
November 29, 2021
Join the Exham-on-Sea’s History Society at an abbey where they find human bones. A present- day body or one centuries old? That is only a few of the questions that Libby and Max must answer. Throw in some ghost-hunting, cute animals and an authentic English village and you have a satisfying cozy. I have read the first two in the series and enjoy the characters. Time passes, people grow older and up and change which doesn’t happen in all cozies. There was some repetition which I felt wasn’t necessary but overall it is a welcome read for anyone who enjoys murder in an English village.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced readers copy in return for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced readers copy in return for an honest review.
November 11, 2021
This is the 8th book in Frances Evesham’s Exham-On-Sea series of cozy mysteries and in my humble opinion, I think it is the best so far. I won’t bore you with a synopsis of the plot, which you can read on Amazon and elsewhere. Needless to say, it involves murder and an abbey – in this case, Cleeve Abbey which actually exists (at least most of it – Henry VIII destroyed the church but many buildings remain). Libby and Max and their dogs Bear and Shipley are once again doing some sleuthing to figure out what happened to the unfortunate soul whose old bones that are found at the abbey, they do some ghost hunting at the abbey, and they try to figure out why a dear friend is attacked for apparently no reason. There’s more mayhem along the way, and several “outsiders” (not villagers) who play a prominent role in the story. There are twists and turns, a couple of red herrings, and a satisfactory and logical conclusion. The story is complete (no cliffhangers although there are continuing threads of the main characters throughout the series) but if you can, read at least the first couple of books in the series to get some backstory on Libby, Max and Mandy, the 3 main characters from the start. This far into the series, you won’t find a lot of backstory – Ms. Evesham focuses on the current story – but you’ll be able to enjoy the story even if it’s the first book you read in the series.
What I like about the Exham-On-Sea series is that over time, the author has allowed the characters to grow and change, as they would in real life. I admit I don’t always like the changes – we humans aren’t exactly known for embracing change – but it keeps the characters real. Exham-On-Sea comes alive in all of the books, and I wish it were a real place that I could visit. However, I’ve visited a few similar villages in my several trips to England and I can picture so easily what Exham must look like. Do yourself a favor – before you start reading this book, look up (Google it as I did) Cleeve Abbey. Their Web site has wonderful pictures of what remains of the monastery buildings and it will really help you visualize the story, especially the ghost hunting night at the Abbey. It truly is a well preserved and beautiful site. Ms. Evesham has incorporated so many details of the Abbey in her writing of this story, and it brings the story a depth that wouldn’t be there with a fictional setting.
As always, Ms. Evesham writes with a flair but also with efficiency. The action moves along, the interactions and dialogue among the characters are realistic (no eye rolls here), and there is humor where appropriate. Murder At The Abbey has several plots going on at the same time, making it one of the more complex stories in the series. It’s a fast read because you don’t want to put it down – you want to find out what’s going on! I did guess correctly one plot, but not all, so it was fun for me to be stumped yet also gratified that I wasn’t completely stumped.
Frances Evesham has another series that is only 2 books in, the Ham Hill Murder Mysteries series, and I recommend those as well. Both these series are quintessentially British and eminently satisfying to read.
Full disclosure: The author gifted me a copy of Murder At The Abbey, and I leave this review voluntarily.
What I like about the Exham-On-Sea series is that over time, the author has allowed the characters to grow and change, as they would in real life. I admit I don’t always like the changes – we humans aren’t exactly known for embracing change – but it keeps the characters real. Exham-On-Sea comes alive in all of the books, and I wish it were a real place that I could visit. However, I’ve visited a few similar villages in my several trips to England and I can picture so easily what Exham must look like. Do yourself a favor – before you start reading this book, look up (Google it as I did) Cleeve Abbey. Their Web site has wonderful pictures of what remains of the monastery buildings and it will really help you visualize the story, especially the ghost hunting night at the Abbey. It truly is a well preserved and beautiful site. Ms. Evesham has incorporated so many details of the Abbey in her writing of this story, and it brings the story a depth that wouldn’t be there with a fictional setting.
As always, Ms. Evesham writes with a flair but also with efficiency. The action moves along, the interactions and dialogue among the characters are realistic (no eye rolls here), and there is humor where appropriate. Murder At The Abbey has several plots going on at the same time, making it one of the more complex stories in the series. It’s a fast read because you don’t want to put it down – you want to find out what’s going on! I did guess correctly one plot, but not all, so it was fun for me to be stumped yet also gratified that I wasn’t completely stumped.
Frances Evesham has another series that is only 2 books in, the Ham Hill Murder Mysteries series, and I recommend those as well. Both these series are quintessentially British and eminently satisfying to read.
Full disclosure: The author gifted me a copy of Murder At The Abbey, and I leave this review voluntarily.
December 17, 2021
This is the eighth Exham-on-Sea mystery
And this time it is set in a real place of history.
Cleeve Abbey is a place you can actually go to
Though I hope similar events don't happen to you!
At the History Society's annual picnic they find
Bones that definitely look to be the human kind.
Is this the start of a historic murder mystery?
Libby and Max are determined to uncover their history.
However, other have different plans in place
Wondering if the Abbey has ghosts that grace.
An overnight stay is soon arranged
To look for anything paranormal or just strange.
When one of their friends is seriously attacked
A connection to the bones found is totally lacked.
However with all the suspects folks they know
Can Libby and Max find out who is the foe?
There are characters with whom it is great to reconnect
And a few others with whom relations would be suspect!
The story is told in such an engaging, easy read way
I had finished reading it in just a day.
If you're looking for an intriguing cosy mystery,
One which links into actually history,
With great characters and a sense of community, too,
This whole series would be fun for you.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
And this time it is set in a real place of history.
Cleeve Abbey is a place you can actually go to
Though I hope similar events don't happen to you!
At the History Society's annual picnic they find
Bones that definitely look to be the human kind.
Is this the start of a historic murder mystery?
Libby and Max are determined to uncover their history.
However, other have different plans in place
Wondering if the Abbey has ghosts that grace.
An overnight stay is soon arranged
To look for anything paranormal or just strange.
When one of their friends is seriously attacked
A connection to the bones found is totally lacked.
However with all the suspects folks they know
Can Libby and Max find out who is the foe?
There are characters with whom it is great to reconnect
And a few others with whom relations would be suspect!
The story is told in such an engaging, easy read way
I had finished reading it in just a day.
If you're looking for an intriguing cosy mystery,
One which links into actually history,
With great characters and a sense of community, too,
This whole series would be fun for you.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
November 10, 2021
The Exham-on-Sea’s History Society's annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River, beside historic Cleeve Abbey. Thrilled to find evidence of a possible centuries-old murder mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost-hunting night in the ruins of Cleeve Abbey, despite amateur sleuth Libby Forest's reservations. Libby is a woman of many talents, a baker, chocolatier, even a reluctant sleuth, but she's no fan of the supernatural so her doubts are justified when a friend is attacked under cover of darkness at the ghost-hunt. Distressed and angry, Libby sets out with her new husband Max and their two dogs Bear and Shipley to uncover the connection between the murder of a sixteenth century monk and a present-day attack in picturesque Somerset.
This is the eighth book in the series & I’m totally hooked. I loved that Libby is a mature woman & I love how her relationship with Max has grown & changed throughout the series & they are now married. Of course I also love Bear & Shipley. Another well written cosy mystery which I read in a sitting, there are twists & turns plus red herrings & I was kept guessing as to who was guilty but I enjoying guessing whodunit only to be proven wrong! I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the eighth book in the series & I’m totally hooked. I loved that Libby is a mature woman & I love how her relationship with Max has grown & changed throughout the series & they are now married. Of course I also love Bear & Shipley. Another well written cosy mystery which I read in a sitting, there are twists & turns plus red herrings & I was kept guessing as to who was guilty but I enjoying guessing whodunit only to be proven wrong! I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 5, 2021
When the Exham-on-Sea History Society go on a picnic to a local abbey they were not expecting it to end abruptly when a human bone is found at the edge of the river. Studies reveal it is an old bone dating back to the Dissolution of the Monasteries & when other bones are found it would appear to belong to a monk who was a scribe. When a ghost hunt ends with a violent attack Max & Libby assist the police to find the attacker.
This is the eighth book in the series that seems to have passed me by, however I had no difficulty engaging and enjoying the story. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
This is the eighth book in the series that seems to have passed me by, however I had no difficulty engaging and enjoying the story. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
November 19, 2021
Jemima found a bone??? Who is it??? Who killed Chesterton Wendlebury and why??? I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
May 30, 2022
This is the last book in the Exham-on-Sea Murder mysteries series and I am sure I will miss these lovely books (and hoping more will follow in future!). This one was no different than the seven before, I loved the setting, the characters (including the dogs), the piece of history. Although I guessed correctly who was the culprit and I partly guessed the "why", it didn't didn't disappoint me, there were still enough things going on so it didn't feel predictable.
2022 Books #45
2022 Books #45
October 25, 2021
I remember many years ago the excitement and delight of reading each new Agatha Christie mystery. Now I have the same excitement and delight every time Frances Evesham has a new book published. A worthy successor to the Queen of Crime's crown. Long may she reign.
Living in Somerset is a bonus as each new mystery happens in a location not far from my own doorstep. Frances brings all the beauty of Somerset's countryside and rich history to life to compliment clever plots.
Living in Somerset is a bonus as each new mystery happens in a location not far from my own doorstep. Frances brings all the beauty of Somerset's countryside and rich history to life to compliment clever plots.
October 16, 2021
Finding old bones near a cemetery sets Libby and Max on a quest to determine if they are bones from one of the monks from long ago. When quirky ghosthunter Rosalind Barnstable proposes the historical society members stake out the abbey to look for ghosts, Libby wants to say no, but her curiosity gets the better of her. When someone attacks Libby's good friend Mandy and leaves her seriously injured, Libby knows no ghost committed the crime. Old bones, historic feuds and simmering university politics makes this a fascinating mystery.
November 19, 2021
This is book eight in this series which I haven’t read any of the previous ones. I would recommend reading the previous ones in order. There seems to be a lot of characters in this book which made it hard to keep everyone straight. I do think reading the previous books in the series would help with that.
It was kind of an easy mystery which I did enjoy.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
It was kind of an easy mystery which I did enjoy.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
November 13, 2021
Most of the regulars from the previous seven stories are here and will be familiar to followers of this series. There’s Libby Forest and Max Ramshore, a former financial advisor, now married for six months and who comprise the Ramshore and Forest Private Investigation agency. Libby is also a baker and chocolate maker. Libby’s best friend Angela is now running the café, Crusts and Crumbs, attached to a new bakery in extended premises bought by her boyfriend Owen, and Libby and her assistant Mandy are performing culinary miracles in the kitchen at the back. Mandy is now living in Hope Cottage, the home Libby bought when she first moved from London to the seaside town of Exham-on-Sea in Somerset and Mandy’s boyfriend is musician Steve, Angela’s nephew. Libby and Angela are regulars at the Exham History Society, lucky to have amongst their number Quentin Dobson from the Watchet museum, Dr Archie Phillips, librarian at Wells Cathedral and retired school teacher Jemima Bakewell. Max and Libby have already been through some pretty hairy adventures together, especially when called upon by DCI Morrison who pays them a small retainer to help with local cases from time to time.
The History Society’s picnic to local twelfth century Cleeve Abbey turns out to be an exciting one when bones are found in the river. Thanks to the help of Charlie and Rory from Bristol University, it turns out that they belong to a sixteenth century monk, and tests show he was likely murdered. At the next meeting, they are joined by local farmer Tom Reeves with his hatred of ex-con and fraudster Chesterton Wendlebury who is now trying to build a housing estate on his family’s ancestral land, Tom’s timid wife Winifred and her sister, the tv paranormal scientist, Rosalind Barnstaple who has gained permission to hold a ghost hunt at the abbey and invites some of the members to come along. But when one of the group is attacked at the night-time vigil, it certainly wasn’t by a ghost! DCI Morrison asks Libby and Max for help and once again, the pair find themselves doing more than tracing kidnapped pets. Is there a connection between a murder and an attempted murder centuries apart? Did the victims know more than was good for them? And is anyone else in danger?
Once again, this is a very engaging cosy mystery with lots of twists and red herrings, perfect for any reader. The story features a whole cast of well-drawn and distinctive characters, some a little eccentric and all very likeable, especially Bear and Shipley with his special precious talent, set in a seaside town where gossip abounds but there is still enough crime to keep Libby and Max in business! I thoroughly enjoyed it! 5*
The History Society’s picnic to local twelfth century Cleeve Abbey turns out to be an exciting one when bones are found in the river. Thanks to the help of Charlie and Rory from Bristol University, it turns out that they belong to a sixteenth century monk, and tests show he was likely murdered. At the next meeting, they are joined by local farmer Tom Reeves with his hatred of ex-con and fraudster Chesterton Wendlebury who is now trying to build a housing estate on his family’s ancestral land, Tom’s timid wife Winifred and her sister, the tv paranormal scientist, Rosalind Barnstaple who has gained permission to hold a ghost hunt at the abbey and invites some of the members to come along. But when one of the group is attacked at the night-time vigil, it certainly wasn’t by a ghost! DCI Morrison asks Libby and Max for help and once again, the pair find themselves doing more than tracing kidnapped pets. Is there a connection between a murder and an attempted murder centuries apart? Did the victims know more than was good for them? And is anyone else in danger?
Once again, this is a very engaging cosy mystery with lots of twists and red herrings, perfect for any reader. The story features a whole cast of well-drawn and distinctive characters, some a little eccentric and all very likeable, especially Bear and Shipley with his special precious talent, set in a seaside town where gossip abounds but there is still enough crime to keep Libby and Max in business! I thoroughly enjoyed it! 5*
January 24, 2023
Score: 4/5
The History Society of Exham-on-Sea’s annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River beside historic Cleeve Abbey. Libby thought the bones might be the evidence of a centuries-old murder mystery and possibly related to Cleeve Abbey. When she got invited to investigate the paranormal activity hosted by a famous journalist, she accepted the offer. However, when she arrived at the abbey, she found many people, including her friends from the History Society and her bakery shop in the abbey. Plus, they joined the investigation like Libby! When the investigation started, everyone was separated into different locations around the abbey. While the investigation was still going on, someone hit Libby’s friend severely. Libby must find out who the culprit is and how the floating skeletons are related to Clive Abbey.
Murder at the Abbey is the eighth book in The Exham-on-the-Sea Murder series. I bought the book on Kobo for A$1.99. Personally, I do not like the cover; however, I decided to buy it because the synopsis was intriguing. Secondly, the price was so cheap, and lastly, the reviews on Goodreads were amazing. After finishing the book, I was impressed.
Judging the book by its cover, I would never know this book was a cozy mystery. The story was smooth and unputdownable. Nevertheless, there was some sluggishness at the beginning. When I reached chapter 6, the story began to pick up. The book also included British history, focusing on the story of King Henry VIII of England, who wanted to eliminate Roman Catholicism in England and replace it with Anglican instead. There was more information in the book. I really like the mixture of history in mystery. There were many characters in the story, but all the names were easy to remember. I normally get very annoyed when writers use fancy names because I am not good with names. Funny how I can remember all human bones in the body but not human names.
I recommend Murder at the Abbey to anyone who enjoys a light mystery novel and does not want to spend much money on books. Although, Murder at the Abbey is the eighth book in the series, as I mentioned earlier. However, you can read it without reading book one. I really hope you will be fond of the book as I did.
Connect with Biblioteca di VIolet via:
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
The History Society of Exham-on-Sea’s annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River beside historic Cleeve Abbey. Libby thought the bones might be the evidence of a centuries-old murder mystery and possibly related to Cleeve Abbey. When she got invited to investigate the paranormal activity hosted by a famous journalist, she accepted the offer. However, when she arrived at the abbey, she found many people, including her friends from the History Society and her bakery shop in the abbey. Plus, they joined the investigation like Libby! When the investigation started, everyone was separated into different locations around the abbey. While the investigation was still going on, someone hit Libby’s friend severely. Libby must find out who the culprit is and how the floating skeletons are related to Clive Abbey.
Murder at the Abbey is the eighth book in The Exham-on-the-Sea Murder series. I bought the book on Kobo for A$1.99. Personally, I do not like the cover; however, I decided to buy it because the synopsis was intriguing. Secondly, the price was so cheap, and lastly, the reviews on Goodreads were amazing. After finishing the book, I was impressed.
Judging the book by its cover, I would never know this book was a cozy mystery. The story was smooth and unputdownable. Nevertheless, there was some sluggishness at the beginning. When I reached chapter 6, the story began to pick up. The book also included British history, focusing on the story of King Henry VIII of England, who wanted to eliminate Roman Catholicism in England and replace it with Anglican instead. There was more information in the book. I really like the mixture of history in mystery. There were many characters in the story, but all the names were easy to remember. I normally get very annoyed when writers use fancy names because I am not good with names. Funny how I can remember all human bones in the body but not human names.
I recommend Murder at the Abbey to anyone who enjoys a light mystery novel and does not want to spend much money on books. Although, Murder at the Abbey is the eighth book in the series, as I mentioned earlier. However, you can read it without reading book one. I really hope you will be fond of the book as I did.
Connect with Biblioteca di VIolet via:
YouTube
March 13, 2022
Murder at the Abbey is part of a series, the Exham-on-Sea Mysteries, but it works well as a standalone. Readers quickly learn about all the characters involved, and their back story is nicely woven into the plot.
The Exham-on-Sea History Society is holding its annual summer picnic at the idyllic ruins of Cleeve Abbey, but the accidental discovery of several bones brings in the police. Are the bones ancient, or is there something more recent afoot?
Luckily for the bones, Libby Forest is at hand, together with her husband, Max. Of course, they become involved in uncovering a centuries-old secret. When during a night-time ghost hunt at the abbey a member of their group, Mandy, is attacked and left with serious head injuries, Libby knows there's more to the bones. Are the two incidents – the discovery and the attack – linked?
Meanwhile, a council session on a new housing estate gets out of control, and soon after, a member of their community is shot. But where is the connection? Libby has to dig in the past to find an answer.
This is the first Libby Forest adventure I've read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Quirky, quintessentially English, and with a subtle sense of humour, the plot unfolds very nicely. I also liked that the protagonists were not young hot-shots, but in their fifties. I also found Libby's passion – food, and baking in particular – a lovely side plot, as it gives her a purpose outside sleuthing. It adds a realistic slant.
The pace is gentle, with heightened tension in all the right places, and a few red herrings to keep us readers guessing. The characters are wonderfully defined, and the background setting is beautiful. An often overlooked county, the author manages to make us curious about the treasures that await visitors in Somerset.
There came a point when I suspected the right character, who turned out to bear a grudge, before the grand revelation at the end, but I thought it was very well resolved. All threads related to the incidents in this story were tied up neatly. As for the residents of Exham-on-Sea, the author leaves a few plotlines to be continued. It works very well that way, I thought.
Murder at the Abbey is a quaint whodunit with a range of interesting characters in a beautiful setting. I shall look for other titles in the series. Well worth a read!
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
The Exham-on-Sea History Society is holding its annual summer picnic at the idyllic ruins of Cleeve Abbey, but the accidental discovery of several bones brings in the police. Are the bones ancient, or is there something more recent afoot?
Luckily for the bones, Libby Forest is at hand, together with her husband, Max. Of course, they become involved in uncovering a centuries-old secret. When during a night-time ghost hunt at the abbey a member of their group, Mandy, is attacked and left with serious head injuries, Libby knows there's more to the bones. Are the two incidents – the discovery and the attack – linked?
Meanwhile, a council session on a new housing estate gets out of control, and soon after, a member of their community is shot. But where is the connection? Libby has to dig in the past to find an answer.
This is the first Libby Forest adventure I've read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Quirky, quintessentially English, and with a subtle sense of humour, the plot unfolds very nicely. I also liked that the protagonists were not young hot-shots, but in their fifties. I also found Libby's passion – food, and baking in particular – a lovely side plot, as it gives her a purpose outside sleuthing. It adds a realistic slant.
The pace is gentle, with heightened tension in all the right places, and a few red herrings to keep us readers guessing. The characters are wonderfully defined, and the background setting is beautiful. An often overlooked county, the author manages to make us curious about the treasures that await visitors in Somerset.
There came a point when I suspected the right character, who turned out to bear a grudge, before the grand revelation at the end, but I thought it was very well resolved. All threads related to the incidents in this story were tied up neatly. As for the residents of Exham-on-Sea, the author leaves a few plotlines to be continued. It works very well that way, I thought.
Murder at the Abbey is a quaint whodunit with a range of interesting characters in a beautiful setting. I shall look for other titles in the series. Well worth a read!
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
December 8, 2021
What a joy it is to return to Exham-On-Sea in Murder at the Abbey, the eighth addictive cosy mystery in Frances Evesham’s delightful series featuring amateur sleuth extraordinaire Libby Forest.
The Exham-On-Sea History Society certainly got a lot more than they bargained for at their annual picnic when human bones were discovered in Washford River near Cleeve Abbey. Thrilled by the gruesome finding they’ve just uncovered and the evidence of a possible centuries-old mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost hunt in the Abbey’s ruins – much to amateur sleuth Libby Forest’s displeasure who cannot help but have serious reservations about the whole thing. Baker extraordinaire Libby might have a penchant for solving mysteries that leave the local constabulary baffled, but even she draws the line at anything supernatural. When a friend is attacked during the ghost hunt, all of her doubts are confirmed, but as somebody who likes to solve puzzles, Libby – with the assistance of husband Max and two dogs Bear and Shipley – finds herself drawn into this mystery and vows to get to the bottom of this case.
Just what is the connection between this senseless attack in the present day and the murder of a monk from the sixteenth century? With many of their friends and neighbours looking rather shifty and guilty of late, Libby and Max’s list of suspects keeps getting larger and larger. But which one of them is responsible for the murder at the abbey? Can Libby and Max find the culprit before more damage is done? Or will this be the case that will leave Libby and Max dumbfounded?
Frances Evesham’s Murder at the Abbey is a terrific cosy mystery that moves along at a cracking pace and will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Frances Evesham’s plotting is absolutely superb and just when readers think that they’ve got the perpetrator figured out, she springs a shock on them that leaves them scratching their heads and frantically turning the pages to find out whodunnit.
Frances Evesham’s Murder at the Abbey is a wonderfully entertaining cosy mystery fans of the genre are going to love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Exham-On-Sea History Society certainly got a lot more than they bargained for at their annual picnic when human bones were discovered in Washford River near Cleeve Abbey. Thrilled by the gruesome finding they’ve just uncovered and the evidence of a possible centuries-old mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost hunt in the Abbey’s ruins – much to amateur sleuth Libby Forest’s displeasure who cannot help but have serious reservations about the whole thing. Baker extraordinaire Libby might have a penchant for solving mysteries that leave the local constabulary baffled, but even she draws the line at anything supernatural. When a friend is attacked during the ghost hunt, all of her doubts are confirmed, but as somebody who likes to solve puzzles, Libby – with the assistance of husband Max and two dogs Bear and Shipley – finds herself drawn into this mystery and vows to get to the bottom of this case.
Just what is the connection between this senseless attack in the present day and the murder of a monk from the sixteenth century? With many of their friends and neighbours looking rather shifty and guilty of late, Libby and Max’s list of suspects keeps getting larger and larger. But which one of them is responsible for the murder at the abbey? Can Libby and Max find the culprit before more damage is done? Or will this be the case that will leave Libby and Max dumbfounded?
Frances Evesham’s Murder at the Abbey is a terrific cosy mystery that moves along at a cracking pace and will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Frances Evesham’s plotting is absolutely superb and just when readers think that they’ve got the perpetrator figured out, she springs a shock on them that leaves them scratching their heads and frantically turning the pages to find out whodunnit.
Frances Evesham’s Murder at the Abbey is a wonderfully entertaining cosy mystery fans of the genre are going to love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 13, 2021
It was only fairly recently that I discovered how good Frances’ books are. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written but I am gradually getting there. ‘Murder At The Abbey’ is the eight book in the ‘Exham-on-Sea’ mystery series. It’s another cracker of a read, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading but more about that in a bit.
I was drawn into this story from the very first word of the synopsis. Within a short space of time, I knew that I was going to become addicted to reading ‘Murder At The Abbey’ and that it would be pointless to plan on doing anything else for the rest of the afternoon. I was spot on too. I picked the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters to fill in a spare half hour but I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and also lost track of just how quickly I was getting through the story. The first time I looked up to check on my reading progress, I was staggered to realise that I had read over a third of the book in one go. It didn’t take me long to get through the rest of the story. I found ‘Murder At The Abbey’ to be a gripping read, which certainly kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘Murder At The Abbey’ is well written. The author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly steady pace throughout. I love the way in which Frances describes her characters and it’s clear to see that she cares about the characters she uses. I wouldn’t say that this is a particularly scary or gruesome story but there was a fair bit of tense drama within the story and there were also lots of twists and turns to the tale. I loved the way in which Frances makes the reader feel part of the story and at the heart of all of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Murder At The Abbey’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I was drawn into this story from the very first word of the synopsis. Within a short space of time, I knew that I was going to become addicted to reading ‘Murder At The Abbey’ and that it would be pointless to plan on doing anything else for the rest of the afternoon. I was spot on too. I picked the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters to fill in a spare half hour but I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and also lost track of just how quickly I was getting through the story. The first time I looked up to check on my reading progress, I was staggered to realise that I had read over a third of the book in one go. It didn’t take me long to get through the rest of the story. I found ‘Murder At The Abbey’ to be a gripping read, which certainly kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘Murder At The Abbey’ is well written. The author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly steady pace throughout. I love the way in which Frances describes her characters and it’s clear to see that she cares about the characters she uses. I wouldn’t say that this is a particularly scary or gruesome story but there was a fair bit of tense drama within the story and there were also lots of twists and turns to the tale. I loved the way in which Frances makes the reader feel part of the story and at the heart of all of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Murder At The Abbey’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
November 12, 2021
In “Murder at the Abbey” by Frances Evesham, we re-join the inhabitants of a not-so-sleepy seaside town for the eighth book in the Exham-On-Sea Murder Mysteries; set in the author’s home county of Somerset.
Max and Libby, the two halves of Ramshore and Forest, Private Investigators, are settling into married life together. Libby also works at the Crusts and Crumbs Café, as Innovation and Development Consultant, and master of all things chocolate and cake.
Both are members of the local History Society (Libby an enthusiastic member, Max less so…), and the book begins with the group making the most of a glorious English summer’s day on an outing to nearby Cleeve Abbey.
Things take an exciting turn when fellow society member Jemima discovers ancient-looking bones in the river running past the abbey – could these be the remains of one of the abbey’s former monks? Following the suggestion that the abbey might be haunted, the whole society is keen to investigate further…
But what first seems a bit of fun – an overnight vigil at the abbey to try and spot a ghost – has dramatic consequences when one of the group is attacked and left for dead, and the case of the (possibly) murdered monk, although hundreds of years ago, becomes unexpectedly entwined with the present day.
What follows is a great twisty mystery (with plenty of cake!), taking in attacks, murders and even Henry VIII, which I really enjoyed! The author does a great job creating a cast of interesting characters (some more likeable than others!), and I really warmed to the lead characters of Max and Libby.
One of the great things about this mystery was the unlikeliness of the first victim; there are plenty of characters who deserved a knock on the head (!), but it’s hard to think of a motive for harming Libby’s friend and colleague, the well-liked Mandy. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me turning the pages, and I really enjoyed the parallel story of the discovery of the monk’s remains.
I’d recommend this book to all fans of cosy crime novels, as this one really keeps you guessing!
Max and Libby, the two halves of Ramshore and Forest, Private Investigators, are settling into married life together. Libby also works at the Crusts and Crumbs Café, as Innovation and Development Consultant, and master of all things chocolate and cake.
Both are members of the local History Society (Libby an enthusiastic member, Max less so…), and the book begins with the group making the most of a glorious English summer’s day on an outing to nearby Cleeve Abbey.
Things take an exciting turn when fellow society member Jemima discovers ancient-looking bones in the river running past the abbey – could these be the remains of one of the abbey’s former monks? Following the suggestion that the abbey might be haunted, the whole society is keen to investigate further…
But what first seems a bit of fun – an overnight vigil at the abbey to try and spot a ghost – has dramatic consequences when one of the group is attacked and left for dead, and the case of the (possibly) murdered monk, although hundreds of years ago, becomes unexpectedly entwined with the present day.
What follows is a great twisty mystery (with plenty of cake!), taking in attacks, murders and even Henry VIII, which I really enjoyed! The author does a great job creating a cast of interesting characters (some more likeable than others!), and I really warmed to the lead characters of Max and Libby.
One of the great things about this mystery was the unlikeliness of the first victim; there are plenty of characters who deserved a knock on the head (!), but it’s hard to think of a motive for harming Libby’s friend and colleague, the well-liked Mandy. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me turning the pages, and I really enjoyed the parallel story of the discovery of the monk’s remains.
I’d recommend this book to all fans of cosy crime novels, as this one really keeps you guessing!
November 14, 2021
It has been a while since I read a book in this series and it was exciting to return.
This series and in fact this book has something for everyone.
Our main characters are mature with interesting histories of their own. The people they have around them are interesting and entertaining. As with any unofficial investigators, they have a mixed experience when dealing with local authorities.
However, they are valued by those who have seen what they can do to aid an investigation.
The historical society is enjoying a picnic when bones are discovered in the river.
There are many plausible reasons for them being there, yet it is enough of a mystery to attract the curiosity of several group members. I loved learning the history as the clues were investigated.
It so happened that permission had been given for a paranormal investigation to be given at the site, and fortunately the historical society members and investigating team were allowed to be present for that. Well, fortunately until one is attacked, making them all suspects.
So the question is, what provoked the attack? Are the curious aspects of the plot related?
And why does a loud mouthed, trouble seeking individual from their past seem to keep turning up?
This is a page turner, a well paced exciting read.
You may find some of the information easier to digest if you had read previous books in the series but it is not necessary to enjoy this book alone.
The characters are well developed and grow with the series.
The dialogue feels realistic and includes humorous moments as well as tense moments.
Overall an excellent read and I can't wait to go back and enjoy the books in this series I have missed.
This series and in fact this book has something for everyone.
Our main characters are mature with interesting histories of their own. The people they have around them are interesting and entertaining. As with any unofficial investigators, they have a mixed experience when dealing with local authorities.
However, they are valued by those who have seen what they can do to aid an investigation.
The historical society is enjoying a picnic when bones are discovered in the river.
There are many plausible reasons for them being there, yet it is enough of a mystery to attract the curiosity of several group members. I loved learning the history as the clues were investigated.
It so happened that permission had been given for a paranormal investigation to be given at the site, and fortunately the historical society members and investigating team were allowed to be present for that. Well, fortunately until one is attacked, making them all suspects.
So the question is, what provoked the attack? Are the curious aspects of the plot related?
And why does a loud mouthed, trouble seeking individual from their past seem to keep turning up?
This is a page turner, a well paced exciting read.
You may find some of the information easier to digest if you had read previous books in the series but it is not necessary to enjoy this book alone.
The characters are well developed and grow with the series.
The dialogue feels realistic and includes humorous moments as well as tense moments.
Overall an excellent read and I can't wait to go back and enjoy the books in this series I have missed.
November 17, 2021
I’ve had the good fortune to read a previous book by Frances Evesham, A Village Murder, so I was eagerly looking forward to this one.
What does a sixteen-century dead monk have to do with attempted murder at Cleeve Abbey? That’s what private investigators, Max and Libby, want to find out.
The delightfully eccentric group of people who make up Exham-on-Sea’s History Society inject some excitement into the quiet village when they chance upon a historical find.
From then onwards, it’s a heady mix of archaeology, history, and even some paranormal investigations. I loved every bit of it. It was deeply interesting to learn about Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in England using the Court of Augmentations, driving monks out of their homes in the process.
The author has put in extensive research not only into the historical background of the story and how archaeological finds are interpreted but also into the intricacies of human psychology and behavior.
Also, the book casts aside the typical notions of people over 40 as old and infirm and instead portrays them as full of life, curious, and raring to seize every opportunity they get to do interesting things. I couldn’t help but draw comparisons between the young and not-so-young couples in the story, and I feel that youth may not be as great an advantage as people think.
Of course, a book that has not one but two dogs in it cannot be anything less than fun. The adorable creatures play their own important part in solving the mystery of the murder at the abbey.
Overall, Murder at the Abbey is an interesting crime story written beautifully, portraying various facets of human emotions and motivations.
(I received a free e-copy of the book from Rachel's Random Resources with a request for an honest review.)
What does a sixteen-century dead monk have to do with attempted murder at Cleeve Abbey? That’s what private investigators, Max and Libby, want to find out.
The delightfully eccentric group of people who make up Exham-on-Sea’s History Society inject some excitement into the quiet village when they chance upon a historical find.
From then onwards, it’s a heady mix of archaeology, history, and even some paranormal investigations. I loved every bit of it. It was deeply interesting to learn about Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in England using the Court of Augmentations, driving monks out of their homes in the process.
The author has put in extensive research not only into the historical background of the story and how archaeological finds are interpreted but also into the intricacies of human psychology and behavior.
Also, the book casts aside the typical notions of people over 40 as old and infirm and instead portrays them as full of life, curious, and raring to seize every opportunity they get to do interesting things. I couldn’t help but draw comparisons between the young and not-so-young couples in the story, and I feel that youth may not be as great an advantage as people think.
Of course, a book that has not one but two dogs in it cannot be anything less than fun. The adorable creatures play their own important part in solving the mystery of the murder at the abbey.
Overall, Murder at the Abbey is an interesting crime story written beautifully, portraying various facets of human emotions and motivations.
(I received a free e-copy of the book from Rachel's Random Resources with a request for an honest review.)
December 18, 2021
Libby and Max are on a picnic at Cleeve Abbey when human remains are found. They are quickly revealed to be centures old and a ghost hunt ensues. But then one of the ghost hunters is attacked. What is the link between the old bones and the current assault?
Murder at the Abbey is the 8th book in Frances Evesham's Exham on Sea series of cosy murder mysteries. This is the first book I have read by this author and I hope to catch up on the rest of the series. There are mentions of past events which I assume featured on the previous books.
Libby and Max are both in their fifties. They are a newly married pair of amateur sleuths and private investigators. They are horrified when one of their friends is attacked. I was surprised as I had a hit list of characters I thought might be bumped off! An actual murder doesn't occur until nearly three quarters of the way through the book although the owner of the ancient bones met a sticky end centuries earlier.
I found myself a little overwhelmed by the number of characters to begin with. However, I soon settled in to the plot and pace. I wonder if this would have been slightly easier if I had read the previous books in the series but it didn't affect my enjoyment of the book overall.
There is some forensic detail and violence but the descriptions are minimal due to the cosy mystery genre. The plot focus in upon the investigation and the gathering of clues but events do occur at a reasonable pace. I was kept guessing until the very end and enjoyed trying (and failing!) to put the clues together.
Murder at the Abbey is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Murder at the Abbey is the 8th book in Frances Evesham's Exham on Sea series of cosy murder mysteries. This is the first book I have read by this author and I hope to catch up on the rest of the series. There are mentions of past events which I assume featured on the previous books.
Libby and Max are both in their fifties. They are a newly married pair of amateur sleuths and private investigators. They are horrified when one of their friends is attacked. I was surprised as I had a hit list of characters I thought might be bumped off! An actual murder doesn't occur until nearly three quarters of the way through the book although the owner of the ancient bones met a sticky end centuries earlier.
I found myself a little overwhelmed by the number of characters to begin with. However, I soon settled in to the plot and pace. I wonder if this would have been slightly easier if I had read the previous books in the series but it didn't affect my enjoyment of the book overall.
There is some forensic detail and violence but the descriptions are minimal due to the cosy mystery genre. The plot focus in upon the investigation and the gathering of clues but events do occur at a reasonable pace. I was kept guessing until the very end and enjoyed trying (and failing!) to put the clues together.
Murder at the Abbey is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery and I look forward to reading more from this author.
November 12, 2021
Another gripping instalment of this top notch series!
When the members of the Exham-on-Sea History Society set out for their annual picnic in the grounds of Cleve Abbey, the last thing they expected was to discover human bones – but that’s exactly what happens. With the suspicion that the bones are historic, an overnight visit to the abbey is organised to find out if it is, indeed, haunted – although not all those present are entirely at ease with the thought of ghosts. Sometime sleuth Libby Forest is one such person, and when one of the party is attacked she is both angry and upset and, along with her husband and their two dogs, sets out to get to the bottom of things. What is the connection with the bones – and who can they trust?
Frances Evesham’s books are wonderfully detailed; there is an awful lot going on but it is all carefully plotted and the multiple threads are cleverly entwined. With a fine cast of characters, it was really difficult to try to sort out what was happening and, more so, to see who could possibly be responsible but, as with all good mysteries, it’s just a matter of following the clues! This is a smartly composed story, easily combining past and present into a flawless, twisted mystery. Beautifully written into an easy read, I loved everything about it from beginning to end; my mouth even watered every time cakes were mentioned! I have no hesitation in recommending this to all lovers of a really good mystery, and happily give all five stars.
When the members of the Exham-on-Sea History Society set out for their annual picnic in the grounds of Cleve Abbey, the last thing they expected was to discover human bones – but that’s exactly what happens. With the suspicion that the bones are historic, an overnight visit to the abbey is organised to find out if it is, indeed, haunted – although not all those present are entirely at ease with the thought of ghosts. Sometime sleuth Libby Forest is one such person, and when one of the party is attacked she is both angry and upset and, along with her husband and their two dogs, sets out to get to the bottom of things. What is the connection with the bones – and who can they trust?
Frances Evesham’s books are wonderfully detailed; there is an awful lot going on but it is all carefully plotted and the multiple threads are cleverly entwined. With a fine cast of characters, it was really difficult to try to sort out what was happening and, more so, to see who could possibly be responsible but, as with all good mysteries, it’s just a matter of following the clues! This is a smartly composed story, easily combining past and present into a flawless, twisted mystery. Beautifully written into an easy read, I loved everything about it from beginning to end; my mouth even watered every time cakes were mentioned! I have no hesitation in recommending this to all lovers of a really good mystery, and happily give all five stars.
October 31, 2021
Libby and Max are now married. Mandy is still living at Hope Cottage. Mandy and Steve tell Libby and Max that they will be going to London to live together. The Historical Society picnic is held at the Abbey, and during the picnic, Jemima finds bones with Archie and Quentin at the river. The police are called in as well as a professor/anthropologist from Bristol. The bones are soon determined to be from the time of Henry VIII and the dissolution of the monasteries and the monk was probably murdered.
Later, a group gets permission from the Abbey to have folks spend the night and do a "ghost watch". During the watch, Mandy goes out to the gatehouse, and is attacked and knocked out. She is in a coma and hospitalized for several days, and Libby and Max are helping the police find out who attacked her and whether or not her attack was related to the attack on the monk. It was a relatively small group at the ghost watch, and no one had a reason to dislike Mandy enough to try to kill her. A local family is still upset about the purchase of land which had belonged to the abbey by the Wendelbury family, but that had nothing to do with Mandy.
Libby and Max still have their magic touch, and they finally figure out all. This is a fun read in the Somerset countryside.
Later, a group gets permission from the Abbey to have folks spend the night and do a "ghost watch". During the watch, Mandy goes out to the gatehouse, and is attacked and knocked out. She is in a coma and hospitalized for several days, and Libby and Max are helping the police find out who attacked her and whether or not her attack was related to the attack on the monk. It was a relatively small group at the ghost watch, and no one had a reason to dislike Mandy enough to try to kill her. A local family is still upset about the purchase of land which had belonged to the abbey by the Wendelbury family, but that had nothing to do with Mandy.
Libby and Max still have their magic touch, and they finally figure out all. This is a fun read in the Somerset countryside.
December 6, 2021
This is the eighth in the series, and also quite a bit longer than the previous books. Max and Libby are now six months' married, and happily enjoying life. It's a warm summer, and the Historical Society has organized a picnic at the old abbey. One of the society members discovers a human bone in the river running beside the abbey, and other smaller bones and a skull are also found. An archeologist from Bristol University is called and after carbon dating she announces they are old, probably the bones of a monk from the 1600s. One of the society members wants to hold a séance at the abbey and film the results for a TV program. Max and Libby attend, as well as most of the historical society, Mandy and Steve, and Reg (Max's good American friend and Mandy's old boyfriend). Mandy is assaulted in the gatehouse (hit on the head) and is found unconscious. Max and Libby assist the police with their investigations and learn quite a bit about the history of the abbey and the sale of the property during the reign of Henry VIII and the dissolution of the Church.
This was another fun and easy read, and added yet more characters to Libby's life.
This was another fun and easy read, and added yet more characters to Libby's life.
March 29, 2022
An excellent book in a continuing series that is a pleasure to read. Every time I read one of these books I remind myself that I have always wanted to visit Somerset (I used to know a Gypsy who was one of the itinerant workers that visited England every year in the 50s, 60s and 70s and moved from farm to farm, the same every year, living in his horse drawn caravan - which he and his wife still lived in when I knew them a decade ago, even though they were well into their 80s by then) and the descriptions of its beauty alone make the books well worth reading.
This time the discovery of the remains of a skeleton in the river enliven a picnic in the Abbey ruins, only for a later ghost hunting evening - just in case their skeleton was still wandering around in his human form - turns nasty when an attempted murder takes place. In no time at all it seems half the village is trying to help, and a couple of burglaries and another accident only serve to inflame peoples curiosity.
A great book, with several happy endings both for the main plot line but also a couple of other sub plots that have carried on from previous books although they have nothing to do with the main story.
This time the discovery of the remains of a skeleton in the river enliven a picnic in the Abbey ruins, only for a later ghost hunting evening - just in case their skeleton was still wandering around in his human form - turns nasty when an attempted murder takes place. In no time at all it seems half the village is trying to help, and a couple of burglaries and another accident only serve to inflame peoples curiosity.
A great book, with several happy endings both for the main plot line but also a couple of other sub plots that have carried on from previous books although they have nothing to do with the main story.
November 9, 2021
*3.5 Stars!!
When newlyweds Libby and Max attend the annual picnic for the History society they expect to have a nice relaxing time with friends and some talk about history of course, but what they don’t expect was to find human bones in the river. It’s quickly deduced that they most likely came from one of the graves in the nearby abbey. The now excited History society decide to have an overnight stay at the abbey to see if they can spot any ghosts from the 16th century. However during the ghost hunt one of their own is attacked and left for dead, soon another murder follows leaving Libby and Max to investigate to see if these events are related to the unknown monk they found.
This book is the 8th book in ‘the Exham-on-sea Murder mysteries’ series but the first one that I’ve read, it does contain some spoilers from the previous books as expected and shows how some of the relationships between some of the other characters was formed but doesn’t go into to much detail so you can still go back and read earlier books in the series without knowing everything that going to happen.
I really enjoyed this book and looking forward to reading the others in this series, really want to see how Libby and Max came to be together as they seem to be a really sweet couple.
What I found that I didn’t like was the reason behind the attacks and killings it felt very juvenile and it was a very longtime to hold a grudge. Also it seemed to me that Charlie wasn’t punished for her actions which led to the first attack.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review.*
When newlyweds Libby and Max attend the annual picnic for the History society they expect to have a nice relaxing time with friends and some talk about history of course, but what they don’t expect was to find human bones in the river. It’s quickly deduced that they most likely came from one of the graves in the nearby abbey. The now excited History society decide to have an overnight stay at the abbey to see if they can spot any ghosts from the 16th century. However during the ghost hunt one of their own is attacked and left for dead, soon another murder follows leaving Libby and Max to investigate to see if these events are related to the unknown monk they found.
This book is the 8th book in ‘the Exham-on-sea Murder mysteries’ series but the first one that I’ve read, it does contain some spoilers from the previous books as expected and shows how some of the relationships between some of the other characters was formed but doesn’t go into to much detail so you can still go back and read earlier books in the series without knowing everything that going to happen.
I really enjoyed this book and looking forward to reading the others in this series, really want to see how Libby and Max came to be together as they seem to be a really sweet couple.
What I found that I didn’t like was the reason behind the attacks and killings it felt very juvenile and it was a very longtime to hold a grudge. Also it seemed to me that Charlie wasn’t punished for her actions which led to the first attack.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review.*
August 14, 2023
A friend gave me this book and I did not like it much. It's a one and a half star read rounded up to two.
This is a cosy mystery with lots of short chapters and lots of characters. I struggled to remember who was who and at the end it appeared that some of the characters were related but I had not realised. I am not sure if I had not been paying attention or if the author had not made it clear!
On the back of the book it says, "Discover the gripping Exham-on-Sea Murder Mysteries, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton." but this story is anything but gripping and has nothing in common with Agatha Christie. There may be something in common with M.C. Beaton as I did not find her books to my taste either.
As for the story there is not much to it. Following the discovery of some mediaeval bones a young woman is attacked during a ghost hunting vigil at the abbey. Then an unlikeable charcter is killed.
The middle aged couple, who are amateur sleuths, ask questions and finally the villain is unmasked.
I have no intention of reading any more of these books.
This is a cosy mystery with lots of short chapters and lots of characters. I struggled to remember who was who and at the end it appeared that some of the characters were related but I had not realised. I am not sure if I had not been paying attention or if the author had not made it clear!
On the back of the book it says, "Discover the gripping Exham-on-Sea Murder Mysteries, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton." but this story is anything but gripping and has nothing in common with Agatha Christie. There may be something in common with M.C. Beaton as I did not find her books to my taste either.
As for the story there is not much to it. Following the discovery of some mediaeval bones a young woman is attacked during a ghost hunting vigil at the abbey. Then an unlikeable charcter is killed.
The middle aged couple, who are amateur sleuths, ask questions and finally the villain is unmasked.
I have no intention of reading any more of these books.
February 14, 2023
Oh my, there was a lot going on in this book. I hope it's not ,but it read like it may be the last book in this series. Max, Libby, Bear and Shipley are back, sleuthing out an unusual case this time. They must uncover the connection between the murder of a sixteenth century monk and a present-day attack in picturesque Somerset. As I said there was a lot going on in this book, that you wonder if Libby and Max will have time to figure out anything. Libby's daughter-in-law is close to her delivery date for the new baby, Mandy and her friend have made future plans, Reginald returns to Summerset hinting at a new love interest, and members of the historical society want to go on a ghost hunt at Cleeve Abbey. With both friends and neighbors as possible suspects, the sleuthing duo have their hands full. All in all, this was a very good read and I enjoyed it immensely. Keeping my fingers crossed that it's not the last adventure of Libby, Max and the gang.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews