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Golden Murder Mysteries #2
Dead Winter Bones
The discovery of ancient bones leads to a modern-day killing spree
In the peaceful Cornish fishing village of Golden, newcomer Malachite Peck finds her serene days shattered by whispers of a chilling mystery at Liggan Manor. Recruited by the manor's widow to confirm her husband's death was due to age, Malachite dives into the manor's shadowed past and uncovers a cache of secrets hinting at a deadly plot.
The murmur of a new will introduces a surprise heir, igniting a desperate scramble for the vast estate, tearing generations apart. When another body surfaces, it's clear that a predator is stalking the Manor's hallowed corridors.
An unknown assailant is targeting the Liggan heirs in a grisly countdown. Can Malachite unmask the killer before the lineage is erased forever? The game is afoot...
Dive into the second book of the Golden Murders series and see if you can beat Mal to the murderer.
In the peaceful Cornish fishing village of Golden, newcomer Malachite Peck finds her serene days shattered by whispers of a chilling mystery at Liggan Manor. Recruited by the manor's widow to confirm her husband's death was due to age, Malachite dives into the manor's shadowed past and uncovers a cache of secrets hinting at a deadly plot.
The murmur of a new will introduces a surprise heir, igniting a desperate scramble for the vast estate, tearing generations apart. When another body surfaces, it's clear that a predator is stalking the Manor's hallowed corridors.
An unknown assailant is targeting the Liggan heirs in a grisly countdown. Can Malachite unmask the killer before the lineage is erased forever? The game is afoot...
Dive into the second book of the Golden Murders series and see if you can beat Mal to the murderer.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 8, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 26, 2023
In the quaint village of Golden in Cornwall, murders are becoming as common as winter storms. Indeed, at this rate it’ll soon be vying with Midsomer! Anna Penrose’s second novel continues in the same vein as ‘The Body in the Wall’, and is even more entertaining.
This delightful book weaves a tapestry of intertwined narratives that delve into Cornish village life, aristocratic family feuds, an unhealthy dose of murders to solve and the compelling life story of the protagonist, Malachite Peck.
Intriguingly named after the vibrant mineral (claimed by some to be “the stone of transformation, the Malachite properties help bring energy and focus to new growth while pruning off the brambles holding you back”), Malachite is a woman determined to build a new life. Once a successful City trader, she committed a crime for which she served five years in prison. Released, she has moved to the village of Golden in Cornwall to set up a bookshop.
Getting accepted into a Cornish village as an outsider is no easy feat. Nevertheless, Malachite gradually wins over most of the local community, and, somewhat in the mould of Miss Marple, unintentionally becomes the village's go-to person whenever a murder strikes. The local DCI is of the bumbling variety, quick to leap to the wrong conclusions, but can be proud of a remarkable clear-up rate thanks to Malachite identifying the true culprits, working with Sophie, the friendly village bobby.
As the mystery unfolds, Mal unravels each enigma with wit, determination, and a touch of that vibrant Malachite energy, drawing upon the diverse knowledge she gained from her past experiences in the business world and behind bars. These unique insights bring an extra layer of intrigue to the already captivating plot, making for a thoroughly enjoyable and engrossing mystery novel.
As I said when I reviewed The Body in the Wall, look out Richard Osman!
This delightful book weaves a tapestry of intertwined narratives that delve into Cornish village life, aristocratic family feuds, an unhealthy dose of murders to solve and the compelling life story of the protagonist, Malachite Peck.
Intriguingly named after the vibrant mineral (claimed by some to be “the stone of transformation, the Malachite properties help bring energy and focus to new growth while pruning off the brambles holding you back”), Malachite is a woman determined to build a new life. Once a successful City trader, she committed a crime for which she served five years in prison. Released, she has moved to the village of Golden in Cornwall to set up a bookshop.
Getting accepted into a Cornish village as an outsider is no easy feat. Nevertheless, Malachite gradually wins over most of the local community, and, somewhat in the mould of Miss Marple, unintentionally becomes the village's go-to person whenever a murder strikes. The local DCI is of the bumbling variety, quick to leap to the wrong conclusions, but can be proud of a remarkable clear-up rate thanks to Malachite identifying the true culprits, working with Sophie, the friendly village bobby.
As the mystery unfolds, Mal unravels each enigma with wit, determination, and a touch of that vibrant Malachite energy, drawing upon the diverse knowledge she gained from her past experiences in the business world and behind bars. These unique insights bring an extra layer of intrigue to the already captivating plot, making for a thoroughly enjoyable and engrossing mystery novel.
As I said when I reviewed The Body in the Wall, look out Richard Osman!
April 28, 2026
Dead Winter Bones by Anna Penrose (a pen name for Liz Hurley) was a serendipitous find from my library’s audiobook collection. I was looking for something to keep me company while I worked in the garden, and honestly, this fit the bill perfectly.
The Story:
The story is set in the rugged landscape of Cornwall, where a violent storm uproots an old tree to reveal a chilling discovery: a child's bones. Shortly after, the Lord of the Manor is found dead… and it isn't an accident. It’s murder. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the killer won't stop until the secrets of the past are either permanently buried or finally brought to light.
Our protagonist, Mal, is a refreshingly unconventional detective. She is in her sixties, runs a local bookshop, and carries the weight of a prison record (having served time for stealing money to save a young girl). Despite her past (or perhaps because of it), she has already solved one murder in the village, and she soon finds herself roped into this new investigation by the Lady of the Manor.
My Thoughts:
The book has all the classic trappings of a Clue-style murder mystery, but with a unique twist in its lead character. It’s a fun, "almost-cozy" detective story that doesn't feel too heavy. While it didn't reinvent the genre for me, it was an engaging and easy listen that made the hours spent getting my vegetable garden back in order fly by.
The Story:
The story is set in the rugged landscape of Cornwall, where a violent storm uproots an old tree to reveal a chilling discovery: a child's bones. Shortly after, the Lord of the Manor is found dead… and it isn't an accident. It’s murder. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the killer won't stop until the secrets of the past are either permanently buried or finally brought to light.
Our protagonist, Mal, is a refreshingly unconventional detective. She is in her sixties, runs a local bookshop, and carries the weight of a prison record (having served time for stealing money to save a young girl). Despite her past (or perhaps because of it), she has already solved one murder in the village, and she soon finds herself roped into this new investigation by the Lady of the Manor.
My Thoughts:
The book has all the classic trappings of a Clue-style murder mystery, but with a unique twist in its lead character. It’s a fun, "almost-cozy" detective story that doesn't feel too heavy. While it didn't reinvent the genre for me, it was an engaging and easy listen that made the hours spent getting my vegetable garden back in order fly by.
August 9, 2023
Thank you to Anna for allowing me to be part of her initial review team in exchange for my honest opinions and review.
After the storm has blown over bones are found in the grounds of Liggan Manor. The police are called in and they are found to be extremely old bones but this is just the start of the discoveries. Sadly the Lord of the manor dies with the big question of was this natural causes? Follow the discoveries which come soon after and find out this will not be the last death under similar circumstances.
After reading Liz Hurley's other books (and loving them so much I was sad they ended) I was excited to be asked to read this book under Liz Hurleys pen name Anna Penrose.
This is book 2 however you would not know this when reading it and this book makes a great stand alone. I have not read book 1 and didn't feel I had missed anything. Something I think this author has got down to a fine art.
This book is a great cosy mystery read. Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as imprisonment, death, bullying and family feuds amongst other things. These are written about with such thought and care. Really showing us that we do not always know the history of our neighbours but equally that their history shapes who they are today but dies not define them.
I love that even when you think you know "Whodidit" you don't!
After the storm has blown over bones are found in the grounds of Liggan Manor. The police are called in and they are found to be extremely old bones but this is just the start of the discoveries. Sadly the Lord of the manor dies with the big question of was this natural causes? Follow the discoveries which come soon after and find out this will not be the last death under similar circumstances.
After reading Liz Hurley's other books (and loving them so much I was sad they ended) I was excited to be asked to read this book under Liz Hurleys pen name Anna Penrose.
This is book 2 however you would not know this when reading it and this book makes a great stand alone. I have not read book 1 and didn't feel I had missed anything. Something I think this author has got down to a fine art.
This book is a great cosy mystery read. Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as imprisonment, death, bullying and family feuds amongst other things. These are written about with such thought and care. Really showing us that we do not always know the history of our neighbours but equally that their history shapes who they are today but dies not define them.
I love that even when you think you know "Whodidit" you don't!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2023
Brilliant, I always get excited to met new characters in a series and watch how they grow. I thoroughly enjoyed the first in the series, The Body In The Wall and am so happy that this book did not disappoint.
The characters are so fantastic, you really get the feel of them and their traits! Anna’s writing style is wonderful and draws you in to the village life, the gossip, the fall outs and friendship all come together to make this book special.
Liggin Manor gives up a secret on a stormy night and what happens next causes havoc within the family. When the Lady of the Manor requests the help of Malachite, she is drawn into the midst of a legacy scandal. The heirs of Liggin Manor are under threat, who can you trust and will Malachite manage to uncover the assailant before it is too late!
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope there will be another in the series.
Happy Reading.
The characters are so fantastic, you really get the feel of them and their traits! Anna’s writing style is wonderful and draws you in to the village life, the gossip, the fall outs and friendship all come together to make this book special.
Liggin Manor gives up a secret on a stormy night and what happens next causes havoc within the family. When the Lady of the Manor requests the help of Malachite, she is drawn into the midst of a legacy scandal. The heirs of Liggin Manor are under threat, who can you trust and will Malachite manage to uncover the assailant before it is too late!
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope there will be another in the series.
Happy Reading.
December 25, 2025
3.5 stars
I finished this audiobook yesterday while getting ready for Christmas with my in-laws. Now that I've read all three books in the series I have a couple of thoughts. First, Mal is way sweeter a character than the impression I got of her from reading the third book first. I actually enjoy this fact quite a bit. She's also really silly, and kind of hilarious in places. Second, it's a bit of a choice by Penrose to have infidelity feature prominently in two of the books, so I'm retrospectively very happy that isn't as big a part of book three.
I finished this audiobook yesterday while getting ready for Christmas with my in-laws. Now that I've read all three books in the series I have a couple of thoughts. First, Mal is way sweeter a character than the impression I got of her from reading the third book first. I actually enjoy this fact quite a bit. She's also really silly, and kind of hilarious in places. Second, it's a bit of a choice by Penrose to have infidelity feature prominently in two of the books, so I'm retrospectively very happy that isn't as big a part of book three.
July 20, 2023
Mal's back! Having really enjoyed the first Golden Mystery I was delighted to be offered an early read of Dead Winter Bones. The death of an elderly man at the local manor house isn't as simple as it seems. Mal becomes involved because the widow requests her help. I love the characters in this book, even the impossibly horrible ones, and I admire Mal's patience in situations where I know I'd want to retaliate. It's an intriguing mystery and I hope this series is set to run and run. If Anna Penrose writes them, I'll read them.
February 21, 2025
It's Not All That It Seems...
The book was slow to start but had a hell of a finish! I totally love the characters in Anna's new series especially Mal. She's gutsy but we're still just getting to know her. I like the direction the character of Mal is going with her new friend, Jacques. I also like the idea of Mal helping out the local police solve the mystery. She wrapped it up neatly. I look forward in reading more of the Golden Murder Mysteries.
The book was slow to start but had a hell of a finish! I totally love the characters in Anna's new series especially Mal. She's gutsy but we're still just getting to know her. I like the direction the character of Mal is going with her new friend, Jacques. I also like the idea of Mal helping out the local police solve the mystery. She wrapped it up neatly. I look forward in reading more of the Golden Murder Mysteries.
August 8, 2023
Another great story from Anna. I love the idea of a more mature lady sleuth who is so much more feisty than the usual cosy Miss Marple types. (I do love Miss M too). the second of the Malachite Peck books. Love the way the story developed and kept me guessing. Looking forward to more in the series.
August 10, 2023
This book is a great continuation of the series that began with The Body in the Wall. Malachite Peck is a woman of a certain age and she holds our attention and respect. This character has mojo!
Cozy but not too cozy, with lots of twists to keep you turning the page. I can't wait for the next one!
Cozy but not too cozy, with lots of twists to keep you turning the page. I can't wait for the next one!
September 8, 2023
Wonderful Follow Up
This was a great follow up to A Body in the Wall. It is refreshing to have a main character in her 60’s and someone who is embracing a new life in a new town. I was kept guessing whodunnit until the end. I look forward to more tales with Malachite Peck. The letters Mal writes to family and friends is a clever way to share her thoughts. Highly recommend.
This was a great follow up to A Body in the Wall. It is refreshing to have a main character in her 60’s and someone who is embracing a new life in a new town. I was kept guessing whodunnit until the end. I look forward to more tales with Malachite Peck. The letters Mal writes to family and friends is a clever way to share her thoughts. Highly recommend.
August 16, 2023
Wonderful
Everything about this book is delightful. Malachite is just a wonderful character smart, plain speaking, warm and caring. I love the way the author uses Mal's letter writing to tell us more of the story. Excellent plot and deftly executed.
Everything about this book is delightful. Malachite is just a wonderful character smart, plain speaking, warm and caring. I love the way the author uses Mal's letter writing to tell us more of the story. Excellent plot and deftly executed.
August 20, 2023
So good I read it in a day!
Enjoyed both of the books in the series. Good characters, so many red herrings to keep you on your toes and a unexpected ending. Hope there are more books to come.
Enjoyed both of the books in the series. Good characters, so many red herrings to keep you on your toes and a unexpected ending. Hope there are more books to come.
December 8, 2025
Audiobook on Spotify review: Anna has impressed me again; great characters and enjoyable story line. Same narrator as her first book (thank god), she really brings the characters to life. Again another enjoyable cosy read.
March 16, 2026
Cozy read, maybe it doesn't help that I started with book two.
The plot is somewhat strange and some of the subplots unnecessary but that doesn't take away from the enjoyment when you're looking for light reading.
The plot is somewhat strange and some of the subplots unnecessary but that doesn't take away from the enjoyment when you're looking for light reading.
May 9, 2026
As a fan of South Cornwall, l enjoyed the local knowledge that Penrose brings to her mystery books. Her main character is unexpected in ways (age, her past), but a likeable tough cookie. The plot is pretty good, too.
September 27, 2023
Wonderful escapism.
I really love the colorful characters, quirkiness, and exceptional writing by the author, and look forward to many more great reads.
I really love the colorful characters, quirkiness, and exceptional writing by the author, and look forward to many more great reads.
December 22, 2023
Great
A great story in Cornwall, my favourite place, my favourite read. A whodunit with style. Thanks to Anna penrose once again on book 2.
A great story in Cornwall, my favourite place, my favourite read. A whodunit with style. Thanks to Anna penrose once again on book 2.
January 22, 2025
Enjoyed this book more than the first, the main character seemed to have developed. Glad I tried the second book
August 23, 2025
I love a good British murder mystery and this one is outstanding.
November 7, 2025
audiobook
December 8, 2025
Did not disappoint! It's fun learning more about each of the main characters.
December 29, 2025
Entertaining read. Will probably continue this series. Some of plot did push believability, but it is fiction after all.
January 28, 2026
I'm enjoying this series featuring a woman of a certain age who has moved to a small village in Cornwall from a very different life.
February 1, 2026
Outstanding series, unusual cast of characters and unique stories! I cannot wait to read the next one!
February 13, 2026
I really enjoyed this book, as this is the last in the series, I hope there is more to come.
April 18, 2026
Audio - interesting characters and story lines.
May 14, 2026
I like the series for Cornwall and the characters. It was an interesting case. It was a good book to listen to because of the different voices of the characters.
August 7, 2023
Dead Winter Bones by Anna Penrose is book 2 in The Golden Murders. A storm brings more than uprooted trees to Liggan Hall in Golden, as bones of a child are turned up when an old tree is uprooted in a violent storm. Imogen, the lady of the Manor, calls on Malachite to help find out who the murderer is as the heirs to Liggan Hall start to fall one by one. This is not a happy family with tension amongst them all. It is a really enjoyable read and brings up all the issues of life in a small village with the very different characters. This raises many a laugh and a smile. Such interesting characters with all their quirks. Loved this.
December 1, 2023
Thank you to Anna for allowing me to be part of her initial review team in exchange for my honest review.
Another hit! I loved the introductory novel to Golden and Malachite Peck with 'The Body in the Wall' and this one is even better!
The intertwining tales see village life at its finest. From squabbles over milk to trampolines ending up in odd places. From the aristocracy behaving badly to uncovering hearts of gold. From uncovering secret lives of your local bookseller to cheering with glee over the comeuppance of the devil in her story!
...and the ending... I never saw it coming! To be honest, my favourite part of the book was definitely the great reveal at the end and the piecing together of the parts.
I love the way the book is written with such banter and witty remarks and think Malachite is a gem of a character.
Thank you very much Anna, and off I go to read the earlier delights that you have written.
Another hit! I loved the introductory novel to Golden and Malachite Peck with 'The Body in the Wall' and this one is even better!
The intertwining tales see village life at its finest. From squabbles over milk to trampolines ending up in odd places. From the aristocracy behaving badly to uncovering hearts of gold. From uncovering secret lives of your local bookseller to cheering with glee over the comeuppance of the devil in her story!
...and the ending... I never saw it coming! To be honest, my favourite part of the book was definitely the great reveal at the end and the piecing together of the parts.
I love the way the book is written with such banter and witty remarks and think Malachite is a gem of a character.
Thank you very much Anna, and off I go to read the earlier delights that you have written.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews