Snake in the Grass

Mysteries of Cobble Hill Farm #10

by Elizabeth Penney, Guideposts

Snake in the Grass is the tenth book in the Mysteries of Cobble Hill Farm Series.

When Harriet Bailey’s young cousins discover an unusual lizard wandering around Cobble Hill Farm, she is stunned to learn that the reptile is not only endangered, but originates from the Caribbean. So how did it end up in White Church Bay? Exotic-animal veterinarian Dr. Jason Peel and private Zoo owner Victoria Langford tells her that animal smuggling is a big problem in Britain and that their new lizard friend, Mango, may be the latest case. When more non-native creatures begin to pop up left and right, Harriet has to wonder if someone in White Church Bay is behind it all.

Meanwhile, Victoria’s long-lost brother, Nick, arrives at Moorland Zoo. Twenty years ago, Nick vanished in a boating accident and was presumed dead. Now he claims he wants to explain his absence and reconnect with his family, but the timing is certainly suspicious. Is there an ulterior motive behind Nick’s reappearance?

Genres: Mystery

261 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 2, 2025

About the author

Elizabeth Penney lives in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where she pens novels and tries to grow things. Elements that often appear in her novels include vintage summer cottages, past/present mysteries, and the arts. After spending early years in England and France, she grew up in Maine, settings that are reflected in her books.

Elizabeth is the author of the Apron Shop Series and Cambridge Bookshop Series from St. Martin's as well as over twenty novels, short stories, and hundreds of business articles. A former consultant and nonprofit executive, she holds a BS and an MBA. She's also written screenplays with her musician husband.

She loves walking in the woods, kayaking on quiet ponds, trying new recipes, and feeding family and friends.

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Cozy Mystery

Not my favorite of the series…


Content info & More thoughts to come.

[patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the twins find an endangered iguana it starts a new adventure for Harriet. She doesn't know much about exotic reptiles but tracks down Jason Peel a vet who does. This leads to meeting Victoria who owns a private zoo that cares for and rehabilitates animal when possible. Victoria will care of the iguana named Mango. When Victoria's brother who has been thought to be dead for 20 years shows up with a sleezy business partner the tale starts to pick up speed. One of the genets at the zoo goes missing. Harriet overhears a conversation between Ozzie and the brother, Jason Peel is attacked. Mango goes missing the day Harriet brings an Indian snake to the zoo for care. Elizabeth Perry shine a light on exotic animal smuggling in Snake In The Grass. Also how some zoos are a force for good in the world. Harriet makes new animal loving friends and helps to solve the mystery. She and Will are becoming closer and Polly and Van are making tentative measures towards friendship.

[DeniseMarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each book in this series has it's own exciting story to tell with new and different animals. I wouldn't like to be anywhere near the snake or reptile in this one. Not crazy about those things. Even though Harriet is in her late 20's? I had a thought that these books kind of play out like Murder She Wrote mysteries? She always is close to trouble and can't keep herself from trying to solve a mystery.

[Papalodge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mango is the best pet. Nick is unvarnished now and helps confuse everyone. Fun adventure.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! I thoroughly enjoyed the story and all the elements of the mystery. One of the series best so far!