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Kate Shackleton #7
A Death in the Dales
A murder most foul
When the landlord of a Yorkshire tavern is killed in plain sight, Freda Simonson, the only witness to the crime, becomes plagued with guilt, believing the wrong man has been convicted. Following her death, it seems that the truth will never be uncovered in the peaceful village of Langcliffe . . .
A village of secrets
But it just so happens that Freda's nephew is courting the renowned amateur sleuth Kate Shackleton, who decides to holiday in Langcliffe with her indomitable teenage niece, Harriet. When Harriet strikes up a friendship with a local girl whose young brother is missing, the search leads Kate to uncover another suspicious death, not to mention an illicit affair.
The case of a lifetime
As the present mysteries merge with the past's mistakes, Kate is thrust into the secrets that Freda left behind and realises that this courageous woman has entrusted her with solving a murder from beyond the grave. It soon becomes clear to her that nothing in Langcliffe is quite as it appears, and with a murderer on the loose and an ever-growing roster of suspects, this isn't the holiday Kate was expecting . . .
When the landlord of a Yorkshire tavern is killed in plain sight, Freda Simonson, the only witness to the crime, becomes plagued with guilt, believing the wrong man has been convicted. Following her death, it seems that the truth will never be uncovered in the peaceful village of Langcliffe . . .
A village of secrets
But it just so happens that Freda's nephew is courting the renowned amateur sleuth Kate Shackleton, who decides to holiday in Langcliffe with her indomitable teenage niece, Harriet. When Harriet strikes up a friendship with a local girl whose young brother is missing, the search leads Kate to uncover another suspicious death, not to mention an illicit affair.
The case of a lifetime
As the present mysteries merge with the past's mistakes, Kate is thrust into the secrets that Freda left behind and realises that this courageous woman has entrusted her with solving a murder from beyond the grave. It soon becomes clear to her that nothing in Langcliffe is quite as it appears, and with a murderer on the loose and an ever-growing roster of suspects, this isn't the holiday Kate was expecting . . .
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2015
74 people are currently reading
1360 people want to read
About the author
Frances Brody
43 books666 followersFrances Brody's highly-praised 1920s mysteries feature clever and elegant Kate Shackleton, First World War widow turned sleuth. Missing person? Foul play suspected? Kate's your woman. For good measure, she may bring along ex-policeman, Jim Sykes.
Before turning to crime, Frances wrote for radio, television and theatre, and was nominated for a Time Out Award. She published four sagas, winning the HarperCollins Elizabeth Elgin Award in 2006.
www.frances-brody.com
Before turning to crime, Frances wrote for radio, television and theatre, and was nominated for a Time Out Award. She published four sagas, winning the HarperCollins Elizabeth Elgin Award in 2006.
www.frances-brody.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
December 9, 2015
I was quite thrilled when I was given a chance to read the latest Kate Shackleton book since this is a series I have been meaning to try out but never got to.
Amateur sleuth Kate Shackleton and her niece Harriet is on holiday in the little village of Langcliffe. Harriet has recently recovered from diphtheria and Kate thought it would be good for her to get away from the town and spend two weeks in the country. Kate is also planning to spend some time with Lucian Simonson, the local doctor to see if they have a future together and it is his late aunt's house they are living in during their stay. But it seems that Lucian aunt all along wanted to meet Kate and to get Kate to help her clear an innocent man's name. It seems that 10 years prior to the present day in the book a man was killed and Freda witness the murderer, but she is convinced that the wrong man was convicted. Now it seems that Kate has a new mission.
This is the kind of book you want to curl up in the sofa with and with a large cup of tea or coffee. It's a cozy mystery book and it was no problem whatsoever getting into the story and get to know the characters. I did think the pacing of the book was a bit slow and I felt that not much happened for a while in the book other than Kate trying to find out the truth about the murder and looking after Harriet. The town's people are quite convinced that the right man was convicted for the murder and it's been ten years since the murder so Kate hasn't got that much to go on. So much of the book was spent trying to find anyone that would have motive and means to kill the poor man. But towards the ending it got better when it pieces started to come to together. And, Frances Brody really manages to write an ending I never expected. I'm really impressed with that.
One thing I reflected on while I read the book was that Kate didn't seem that in love with Lucian. She is contemplating a future as a doctor's wife, but I really didn't feel any passion between them. It felt more like two old friends when they were together. I have only read this book, but I feel that she really needs someone more passionate than Lucian. I hope she finds him.
It was a good book. I enjoyed reading it. The pacing could have been better, but I do look forward to reading more books in this series especially the books before because I curious to learn more about Kate and her family.
Thank you Piatkus for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
Amateur sleuth Kate Shackleton and her niece Harriet is on holiday in the little village of Langcliffe. Harriet has recently recovered from diphtheria and Kate thought it would be good for her to get away from the town and spend two weeks in the country. Kate is also planning to spend some time with Lucian Simonson, the local doctor to see if they have a future together and it is his late aunt's house they are living in during their stay. But it seems that Lucian aunt all along wanted to meet Kate and to get Kate to help her clear an innocent man's name. It seems that 10 years prior to the present day in the book a man was killed and Freda witness the murderer, but she is convinced that the wrong man was convicted. Now it seems that Kate has a new mission.
This is the kind of book you want to curl up in the sofa with and with a large cup of tea or coffee. It's a cozy mystery book and it was no problem whatsoever getting into the story and get to know the characters. I did think the pacing of the book was a bit slow and I felt that not much happened for a while in the book other than Kate trying to find out the truth about the murder and looking after Harriet. The town's people are quite convinced that the right man was convicted for the murder and it's been ten years since the murder so Kate hasn't got that much to go on. So much of the book was spent trying to find anyone that would have motive and means to kill the poor man. But towards the ending it got better when it pieces started to come to together. And, Frances Brody really manages to write an ending I never expected. I'm really impressed with that.
One thing I reflected on while I read the book was that Kate didn't seem that in love with Lucian. She is contemplating a future as a doctor's wife, but I really didn't feel any passion between them. It felt more like two old friends when they were together. I have only read this book, but I feel that she really needs someone more passionate than Lucian. I hope she finds him.
It was a good book. I enjoyed reading it. The pacing could have been better, but I do look forward to reading more books in this series especially the books before because I curious to learn more about Kate and her family.
Thank you Piatkus for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
February 10, 2017
The latest in this savvy historical mystery takes Kate to a small town full of dark secrets. A mystery that is also a character(s) study. Worth the read!
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine: http://affairedecoeur.com.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine: http://affairedecoeur.com.
May 8, 2022
Hmm. I was wavering between 2 and 3 stars for this one. I haven't read any others in the series and after the unsatisfactory and abrupt ending, won't be reading any more.
It started off well with some good scene setting, but there was too much happening. Not satisfied with having our detective investigate an old murder case, a missing boy and a suspicious death on a farm are added to the mix. All written about in a brisk and breezy style. I can see why the series is popular but it is not for me.
It started off well with some good scene setting, but there was too much happening. Not satisfied with having our detective investigate an old murder case, a missing boy and a suspicious death on a farm are added to the mix. All written about in a brisk and breezy style. I can see why the series is popular but it is not for me.
November 7, 2015
The author has penned a stylish period murder mystery and captures the wonderful atmosphere of a Dales village of that time. It is both well plotted and structured. Kate takes on the investigation whilst she is living in Lucien’s late aunt’s home. She is there trying to see if her and Lucien could work out as a couple, and she has brought her convalescing neice, Harriet, with her.
Lucien’s aunt had been a lone voice in the village who had argued that the wrong person had been convicted for a murder that had taken place some years ago. At first reluctant, Kate decides to find out what happened. She is aided by the feisty and intelligent Harriet who seems to take after her aunt! They uncover village intrigue and complications. The past and the present collide when another murder occurs.
This is a great read. I found myself immersed in the story and straining to find out how it all ends. There is a surprise ending which I did not see coming. I can recommend this novel to all those who enjoy a good entertaining mystery. I would like to thank the publisher via goodreads giveaways for a copy of the book.
Lucien’s aunt had been a lone voice in the village who had argued that the wrong person had been convicted for a murder that had taken place some years ago. At first reluctant, Kate decides to find out what happened. She is aided by the feisty and intelligent Harriet who seems to take after her aunt! They uncover village intrigue and complications. The past and the present collide when another murder occurs.
This is a great read. I found myself immersed in the story and straining to find out how it all ends. There is a surprise ending which I did not see coming. I can recommend this novel to all those who enjoy a good entertaining mystery. I would like to thank the publisher via goodreads giveaways for a copy of the book.
April 23, 2017
Kate decides to take her niece Harriet, who is recovering from diphtheria, on holiday to the Yorkshire Dales. Kate’s vacation has an ulterior motive-she will be staying at the home of her beau, Dr. Lucian Simonson’s late aunt to get to know him better. Lucian hints that he wants more from their relationship, but Kate isn’t sure she wants to marry again. When Kate arrives, she discovers a mystery 11 years old. Miss Freda Simonsen claimed to have witnessed a murder for which an Irishman was convicted and killed. Freda’s friend, Mr. Wigglesworth, believes her claims that she saw a third man that night, but the law and the villagers never believed her, causing Freda to become an outcast in her native village. “Wiggy” claims it was Freda’s greatest wish to meet Kate and have her investigate the case. Can Kate discover the truth after all this time? Meanwhile, Harriet is eager to assist Kate in her detective work while Kate is eager for Harriet to make friends her own age. Beth, an orphaned mill worker is the first candidate and she brings a new mystery to solve: the case of her missing brother Martin, recently sent out to work on a farm despite being slightly underage. Harriet sees this as her opportunity to solve her first mystery!
The plot of this book gripped me and I could not put it down. I read very late into the night and dreamed about solving cases. I had to wake up really early and keep reading! I ended up skipping extraneous details in the last third of the novel to find out what happened! The reveal was shocking and very sad. I never guessed who or why.
While Kate’s cold, impassive narrative style still doesn’t appeal to me, I think though, I am getting a better feel for her character, reading between the lines. I don’t buy a romance with Lucian at all. Lucian is a very nice man. I liked him but there was no chemistry between them. He came home from the war seeking peace and domesticity, understandably so; while Kate returned a widow and independent woman. I think she enjoys being independent. It bothers her that Lucian doesn’t fully support her work. He feels it is incompatible with his line of work and his position as a villager. I think though part of Kate worries he disapproves of her working in general. Kate seems to like being an independent woman. She has a lively, curious mind and she’s taking advantage of new roles for women that have opened up during and after the war. She also doesn’t have closure for her husband’s death and I think part of her still loves him and is waiting for his return.
Harriet is a fun character. She’s a feisty girl who was greatly influenced by her father, who seems to have been involved in organized labor. I don’t know her back story yet but I enjoyed the parts of the story told from her point-of-view. She admires and is influenced by her aunt and seems to have the same keen mind and curiosity.
Though Freda Simonsen is no longer living at the time of the story, we learn a lot about her. She sounds like a remarkable woman. I loved how she fought for what she believed to be right, especially women’s issues. I was sad she gave up her life to raise her nephew but she seems to have been kind and loving and never resentful. She sought to shield him from village gossip about her and always made sure he had a happy home to come to. She sounds like a remarkable woman I would have liked to have known. The revelation at the end about her last moments with Lucian wouldn’t necessarily be a deal breaker for me the way it was with Kate. I don’t think what he did was so bad, just sad.
Harriet’s friend Beth is probably not someone I’d be friends with. There’s nothing really wrong with her but her personality seems a little forceful to me. I understood her worry about her brother and his feelings towards her. He seems like a good boy who is just hurt and confused by the desertion of his father and the death of his mother. He was ready to leave school but not quite ready to work.
The villagers are composed of Mrs. Holroyd, the widow of the murder victim. She’s an unpleasant sort of woman I wouldn’t want to cross. Mr. and Mrs. Trevelyan and their daughter Susannah are the leading land owners in the area. They seem nice. Bertie is a typical country squire but I didn’t like his treatment of Susannah. I loved Susannah. She’s shy and bookish like me. Mr. Wigglesworth, the apothecary, is such a dear. I loved him right away though I was slightly suspicious of his role as an apothecary.
Outside the village proper there are the farmers: The Murgatroyds and the Gouthwaites. The Murgatroyds seem like decent people. They’re very dedicated farmers. I liked Jenny and wanted her to be happy and have her parents support her. Mr. Gouthwaite is a nasty person and I felt bad for Selina and Martin. I really really felt bad for Martin to be thrust into that situation. I also pitied Selina even all the way to the end. Then there’s Gabriel Cherry, a shepherd/farm hand hmmm inspired by Gabriel Oak perhaps? He seems kind like Gabriel Oak but not so noble.
Finally, there’s the murder suspect: Jim Flaherty, an Irishman, seems to have been a decent man. I was convinced from the first he was a scapegoat, especially when I learned the murder took place shortly after the Easter Rising.
Fans of the series will be glad to note Sykes and Mrs. Sugden appear in the last third. He’s too cold and uncaring for me and I think she is a meddler!
I’m curious enough to go back and read other books in the series now.
The plot of this book gripped me and I could not put it down. I read very late into the night and dreamed about solving cases. I had to wake up really early and keep reading! I ended up skipping extraneous details in the last third of the novel to find out what happened! The reveal was shocking and very sad. I never guessed who or why.
While Kate’s cold, impassive narrative style still doesn’t appeal to me, I think though, I am getting a better feel for her character, reading between the lines. I don’t buy a romance with Lucian at all. Lucian is a very nice man. I liked him but there was no chemistry between them. He came home from the war seeking peace and domesticity, understandably so; while Kate returned a widow and independent woman. I think she enjoys being independent. It bothers her that Lucian doesn’t fully support her work. He feels it is incompatible with his line of work and his position as a villager. I think though part of Kate worries he disapproves of her working in general. Kate seems to like being an independent woman. She has a lively, curious mind and she’s taking advantage of new roles for women that have opened up during and after the war. She also doesn’t have closure for her husband’s death and I think part of her still loves him and is waiting for his return.
Harriet is a fun character. She’s a feisty girl who was greatly influenced by her father, who seems to have been involved in organized labor. I don’t know her back story yet but I enjoyed the parts of the story told from her point-of-view. She admires and is influenced by her aunt and seems to have the same keen mind and curiosity.
Though Freda Simonsen is no longer living at the time of the story, we learn a lot about her. She sounds like a remarkable woman. I loved how she fought for what she believed to be right, especially women’s issues. I was sad she gave up her life to raise her nephew but she seems to have been kind and loving and never resentful. She sought to shield him from village gossip about her and always made sure he had a happy home to come to. She sounds like a remarkable woman I would have liked to have known. The revelation at the end about her last moments with Lucian wouldn’t necessarily be a deal breaker for me the way it was with Kate. I don’t think what he did was so bad, just sad.
Harriet’s friend Beth is probably not someone I’d be friends with. There’s nothing really wrong with her but her personality seems a little forceful to me. I understood her worry about her brother and his feelings towards her. He seems like a good boy who is just hurt and confused by the desertion of his father and the death of his mother. He was ready to leave school but not quite ready to work.
The villagers are composed of Mrs. Holroyd, the widow of the murder victim. She’s an unpleasant sort of woman I wouldn’t want to cross. Mr. and Mrs. Trevelyan and their daughter Susannah are the leading land owners in the area. They seem nice. Bertie is a typical country squire but I didn’t like his treatment of Susannah. I loved Susannah. She’s shy and bookish like me. Mr. Wigglesworth, the apothecary, is such a dear. I loved him right away though I was slightly suspicious of his role as an apothecary.
Outside the village proper there are the farmers: The Murgatroyds and the Gouthwaites. The Murgatroyds seem like decent people. They’re very dedicated farmers. I liked Jenny and wanted her to be happy and have her parents support her. Mr. Gouthwaite is a nasty person and I felt bad for Selina and Martin. I really really felt bad for Martin to be thrust into that situation. I also pitied Selina even all the way to the end. Then there’s Gabriel Cherry, a shepherd/farm hand hmmm inspired by Gabriel Oak perhaps? He seems kind like Gabriel Oak but not so noble.
Finally, there’s the murder suspect: Jim Flaherty, an Irishman, seems to have been a decent man. I was convinced from the first he was a scapegoat, especially when I learned the murder took place shortly after the Easter Rising.
Fans of the series will be glad to note Sykes and Mrs. Sugden appear in the last third. He’s too cold and uncaring for me and I think she is a meddler!
I’m curious enough to go back and read other books in the series now.
February 26, 2017
If you had told me a couple of chapters into this book that I would be giving it four stars, I would have given you the full-on Spock eyebrow. The writing was a little stiff, a little stilted, and I was pretty sure this was going to be a bomb.
It's the seventh book in its series – I really do try to avoid doing that, and keep failing. But I think it worked on its own. I felt I was adequately introduced to Kate Shackleton and her life and career, without being completely spoiled (as far as I know) for the earlier books. I have no idea how the main character's love interest, Lucian, was introduced and built up prior to this installment, but here things are coming to a head: her thirteen-year-old niece is recovering from whooping cough (?), and she has decided to take the girl away from the home where she would be kept busy looking after younger siblings, to a village where she might have the chance to rest and actually recuperate. And Lucian just so happens to have a cottage, left him by his aunt, which will be just the place. And if her stay there – with his frequent visits – lead her to finally agreeing to marry him, well then.
Kate is barely there a minute when a mystery falls into her lap. Apparently her reputation as a detective has preceded her, and as it turns out Aunt Freda witnessed a murder some ten years ago. Despite her eyewitness account that he couldn’t have done it, despite her constant campaigning, a young Irish laborer was arrested, tried, convicted, and hanged for the killing. Now, years after her own death, all of her notes on the case are foisted upon Kate, and whether she wants the job or not she is duty bound to try to clear the name of the man who was executed.
Meanwhile, of course, there are a number of smaller mysteries to clear up along the way, not least of which is what exactly her feelings really are toward Lucian, and which path her life will take.
By the end of the book I was surprised at how much I was enjoying myself. I don't know if I'll make the effort to read the rest of the series, or any books which follow this, but I admit I am curious about the Lucian story thread – so it's not impossible I'll read more. Not overly likely, but not impossible.
One small detail I absolutely loved was:
"Once settled, she banged her head on the pillow eleven-and-a-bit times, to be sure of waking before midnight.
"‘What you doing?’ Madge asked.
"‘Reminding meself.’"
This is a trick I've only ever read about before in E. Nesbit, and it's something I've done ever since: if you want to make sure you wake up at nine o'clock, lift and drop your head on your pillow nine times. I'm not going to say it's infallible – but I'm also not going to say it doesn't work.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
It's the seventh book in its series – I really do try to avoid doing that, and keep failing. But I think it worked on its own. I felt I was adequately introduced to Kate Shackleton and her life and career, without being completely spoiled (as far as I know) for the earlier books. I have no idea how the main character's love interest, Lucian, was introduced and built up prior to this installment, but here things are coming to a head: her thirteen-year-old niece is recovering from whooping cough (?), and she has decided to take the girl away from the home where she would be kept busy looking after younger siblings, to a village where she might have the chance to rest and actually recuperate. And Lucian just so happens to have a cottage, left him by his aunt, which will be just the place. And if her stay there – with his frequent visits – lead her to finally agreeing to marry him, well then.
Kate is barely there a minute when a mystery falls into her lap. Apparently her reputation as a detective has preceded her, and as it turns out Aunt Freda witnessed a murder some ten years ago. Despite her eyewitness account that he couldn’t have done it, despite her constant campaigning, a young Irish laborer was arrested, tried, convicted, and hanged for the killing. Now, years after her own death, all of her notes on the case are foisted upon Kate, and whether she wants the job or not she is duty bound to try to clear the name of the man who was executed.
Meanwhile, of course, there are a number of smaller mysteries to clear up along the way, not least of which is what exactly her feelings really are toward Lucian, and which path her life will take.
By the end of the book I was surprised at how much I was enjoying myself. I don't know if I'll make the effort to read the rest of the series, or any books which follow this, but I admit I am curious about the Lucian story thread – so it's not impossible I'll read more. Not overly likely, but not impossible.
One small detail I absolutely loved was:
"Once settled, she banged her head on the pillow eleven-and-a-bit times, to be sure of waking before midnight.
"‘What you doing?’ Madge asked.
"‘Reminding meself.’"
This is a trick I've only ever read about before in E. Nesbit, and it's something I've done ever since: if you want to make sure you wake up at nine o'clock, lift and drop your head on your pillow nine times. I'm not going to say it's infallible – but I'm also not going to say it doesn't work.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
July 18, 2019
2019 bk 222. Harriet, Kate's niece, has been ill with diptheria. No longer hospitalized, Kate takes her on a recuperation holiday in the Dales region of Yorkshire. The physician from an earlier book is very interested in possibly marrying Kate and has asked her to come visit and to stay in the house he grew up in, while he remains at his 'digs' in a closeby village. Within an hour of arriving, Kate is asked to take hand in opening an investigation into a murder that had taken place in 1916 - 10 years earlier, and which had been witnessed by her friend's aunt. There are three different mysteries that need solving in this book. Harriet convinces her aunt that she is well enough and at age 14, old enough, to help. Copying her aunt's style, Harriet pulls a good bit of information from her new friends in the village to really help in solving what has happened in the distant and near past. An enjoyable read.
September 29, 2015
"A Death in the Dales" is the second book by Frances Brody that I have read, and one that I eagerly awaited - I totally fell in love with Kate Shackleton and with her adventures, and what a joy it is to read a book about private investigator that doesn't have any modern devices, such as internet, mobiles and other fancy helping things, and the only thing she can rely on is her own brain and logical thinking - it so refreshing.
Even though "A Death in the Dales" is a part of the mystery series featuring the above mentioned Kate (and also, for good measure, the ex - policeman, Jim Sykes and Kate's housekeeper, Mrs Sugden), this book can be read and enjoyed as a stand - alone novel.
I have a feeling that there is a great successor growing just under Kate's wings, her niece Harriet, whom the author introduces to us in this book. Harriet is young and has thirst for knowledge, and she by all means wants to be Kate's assistant. Harriet is like her aunt, outruns the times she's living in, they're both intelligent and clever, and I totally adored the ways they conducted their investigations. Kate is, as always, discreet and knows no limits in her investigations, and even though she's on holidays this time, her work comes first. And as usual, when Kate starts to investigate one thing, she soon finds herself involved in many other different matters, that starts to roll like a little snowball, to finally turn into a real avalanche. But no matter how much I like Kate, the story really gained a real speed when Jim Sykes and Mrs Sugden arrive to the little town Langcliffe and take matters in their hands as well - they are the best addiction to the story, I think it wouldn't be the same without them.
Investigations, you may ask? Yes, investigations, plural, because where Kate is, there are many mysteries to solve. I don't want to give anything away because I don't want to spoil your reading - and you MUST read this book! It's elegant, clever, it has style and even though it takes part between the two wars, it reads like a modern story - but believe me, there is not a single second flat in this book, and it still feels like reading a book set in 1920's - the vocabulary, the way the characters behave and talk, their clothes, it was so spot on and felt so realistic. One mystery carries the next, but yet the reader doesn't feel overwhelmed with the plethora of information or puzzles.
There is such a feeling of peacefulness to this story. Of course, as it's a cosy crime, there is murder and many other things that I didn't expect, but it is told with style, in a gentle way, without unnecessary drama or pumping up the atmosphere. About the things I didn't expect - it is really incredible how much the author squeezed between the covers of this book, and even though the events and situations were unexpected for me, they suit the story and fit in the plot wonderfully.
There are plenty of characters in this story, but they are very distinctive and I didn't have any problems to know who is who and why. Each of the characters has their own story, and we have not only murder and a sentence of an innocent person, but we have children looking for brothers and sisters, mysterious death of a healthy man, farmers living secluded with their own secrets, love letters stolen and a little town that - this time - doesn't know all the secrets! Perhaps it is so because they didn't have internet in those times and people kept themselves to themselves. But back to the characters - they were all so significant to the plot, and their stories intertwined and made a brilliant, hooking book that I've read in two days - I couldn't put it down. The author pays attention to all of the characters, and even if they are the background ones, I still had a feeling that I know them and that I can understand their actions.
There was also so much love to the details in the story, and I had a feeling that every single word is this of the utmost significance. The author puts a lot of effort to explain everything and to write things in such a way that we don't feel confused, but yet she adds a mystery here and there and, in fact, we truly don't know what we can expect and how it's going to end, which I, personally, was loving. I wasn't even trying to guess who's the real murderer because I was sure that I'm going to be wrong, and so I let the author to take me with her on this brilliant journey, together with Kate and Harriet. Yes, I had a feeling that some of the threads were left open, such as Harriet plotting something with Suzannah, I had a feeling they are for some mischief or to investigate on their own, but this, in fact, didn't spoilt the whole reading.
I have truly enjoyed this book, it has totally fulfilled my expectations. It felt so different, so fresh and so clever, a story written with a lot of subtlety and gentleness, and also with a great dose of humour. Even though the plot was complex and the author was adding new mysteries on the way, it was still a very neat, logical read, and the characters were brilliant representatives of this age. It was truly wonderfully pieced together and I really can't wait for more Kate's adventures.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
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June 17, 2019A very light read. An old fashioned whodunit set in Yorkshire between the wars. Good for light relief after a heavy read.
January 7, 2019
I enjoyed this entry (#7). I hope that some of the characters in this story will make their way into future books.
"A murder most foul-When the landlord of a Yorkshire tavern is killed in plain sight, Freda Simonson, the only witness to the crime, becomes plagued with guilt, believing the wrong man has been convicted. Following her death, it seems that the truth will never be uncovered in the peaceful village of Langcliffe . . . A village of secrets-But it just so happens that Freda's nephew is courting the renowned amateur sleuth Kate Shackleton, who decides to holiday in Langcliffe with her indomitable teenage niece, Harriet. When Harriet strikes up a friendship with a local girl whose young brother is missing, the search leads Kate to uncover another suspicious death, not to mention an illicit affair. The case of a lifetime-As the present mysteries merge with the past's mistakes, Kate is thrust into the secrets that Freda left behind and realises that this courageous woman has entrusted her with solving a murder from beyond the grave. It soon becomes clear to her that nothing in Langcliffe is quite as it appears, and with a murderer on the loose and an ever-growing roster of suspects, this isn't the holiday Kate was expecting ."
"A murder most foul-When the landlord of a Yorkshire tavern is killed in plain sight, Freda Simonson, the only witness to the crime, becomes plagued with guilt, believing the wrong man has been convicted. Following her death, it seems that the truth will never be uncovered in the peaceful village of Langcliffe . . . A village of secrets-But it just so happens that Freda's nephew is courting the renowned amateur sleuth Kate Shackleton, who decides to holiday in Langcliffe with her indomitable teenage niece, Harriet. When Harriet strikes up a friendship with a local girl whose young brother is missing, the search leads Kate to uncover another suspicious death, not to mention an illicit affair. The case of a lifetime-As the present mysteries merge with the past's mistakes, Kate is thrust into the secrets that Freda left behind and realises that this courageous woman has entrusted her with solving a murder from beyond the grave. It soon becomes clear to her that nothing in Langcliffe is quite as it appears, and with a murderer on the loose and an ever-growing roster of suspects, this isn't the holiday Kate was expecting ."
September 17, 2021
I was really looking forward to reading this. Leant to me by a work colleague, I thought this would be something that I was really going to enjoy.
I love a gentle mystery and I love the Yorkshire Dales so what more could I want?
Sadly, this fell rather flat and dare I say it, a little boring. Without giving the game away, not what I was expecting at all.
Maybe it didn't help that I arrived at this series halfway through so the background was not set. Although the reviews that I have read say that the books can be stand alone reads.
Never mind... onwards and upwards. I've only got about 300 physical books that I haven't actually read yet ! 😂
I love a gentle mystery and I love the Yorkshire Dales so what more could I want?
Sadly, this fell rather flat and dare I say it, a little boring. Without giving the game away, not what I was expecting at all.
Maybe it didn't help that I arrived at this series halfway through so the background was not set. Although the reviews that I have read say that the books can be stand alone reads.
Never mind... onwards and upwards. I've only got about 300 physical books that I haven't actually read yet ! 😂
August 29, 2022
Set a little after World War I this mystery is a bit different as it concerns a cold case. When Kate Shackleton takes her niece Harriet to the country to finish recuperating from an illness she is asked by a local resident to look into a murder from about 10 years ago. As she is starting on that investigation, she is also asked to help with two other tasks. And then, like many a mystery set in England, another person's death is ruled a murder and becomes one more thing to look into. Filled with characters who might-have-done-it and relationships among those in the town, both complicated and helpful, the storyline rang true.
March 13, 2022
Another great book from Frances Brody. This time Kate has taken her neice Harriet who is recovering from a recent illness on holiday to Langcliffe. Obviously the holiday is not the relaxing time it was intended to be as soon Kate is investigating an old murder.
April 23, 2018
Really enjoyed this book for a light, page turner read. Well written, believable characters. Loved the location, knowing the place well I could imagine it all. A good story.
October 2, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publishers and this is my honest opinion of the book.
Kate Shackleton has taken her niece, Harriet, to the countryside to recuperate after an illness. It will also give Kate time to assess her relationship with Lucian Simonson. Staying in Lucian's deceased Aunt Freda's home Kate becomes aware that Freda was a witness to a murder 10 years previously and that she was adamant that the wrong person had been convicted and hung for the crime. Kate is at first reluctant to
Although this is only the second Kate Shackleton book I have read it was lovely to be back with the characters of Kate, Mr Sykes and Mrs Sugden. This time they are joined by Kate's niece, Harriet, who adds another element to the story, keen as she is to be a detective, like her aunt.
The scenery and characters are well drawn. I could easily picture the village and the locals, some of whom have secrets to hide. The atmosphere and feel of the 1920s was portrayed in a great way and I found myself transported back to what I imagine a country village on 1926 would be like.
The mystery was engaging. Was the wrong man hanged ten years ago for the brutal murder of the local pub landlord? Another suspicious death throws confusion into the mix. What does the disappearance of a young boy and an old affair that ended years ago have to do with it. It was lovely to read along and play armchair detective, seeing if I could guess the culprit.
The Kate Shackleton investigations are what I like to call 'gentle' murder mysteries, if you'll excuse the oxymoron. The blood, guts and gore aren't there and this was a time before DNA so investigations are centred on brain power unsupported by science. There's no swearing, violence is hidden and social hierarchy is shown to be important. They are books to curl up with on a rainy day, between episodes of Poirot and Miss Marple.
This is the seventh book in the series and though I prefer to read a series in order this could be read as a standalone. Whilst I'm waiting for the next book I'll just have to go back to the beginning.
Kate Shackleton has taken her niece, Harriet, to the countryside to recuperate after an illness. It will also give Kate time to assess her relationship with Lucian Simonson. Staying in Lucian's deceased Aunt Freda's home Kate becomes aware that Freda was a witness to a murder 10 years previously and that she was adamant that the wrong person had been convicted and hung for the crime. Kate is at first reluctant to
Although this is only the second Kate Shackleton book I have read it was lovely to be back with the characters of Kate, Mr Sykes and Mrs Sugden. This time they are joined by Kate's niece, Harriet, who adds another element to the story, keen as she is to be a detective, like her aunt.
The scenery and characters are well drawn. I could easily picture the village and the locals, some of whom have secrets to hide. The atmosphere and feel of the 1920s was portrayed in a great way and I found myself transported back to what I imagine a country village on 1926 would be like.
The mystery was engaging. Was the wrong man hanged ten years ago for the brutal murder of the local pub landlord? Another suspicious death throws confusion into the mix. What does the disappearance of a young boy and an old affair that ended years ago have to do with it. It was lovely to read along and play armchair detective, seeing if I could guess the culprit.
The Kate Shackleton investigations are what I like to call 'gentle' murder mysteries, if you'll excuse the oxymoron. The blood, guts and gore aren't there and this was a time before DNA so investigations are centred on brain power unsupported by science. There's no swearing, violence is hidden and social hierarchy is shown to be important. They are books to curl up with on a rainy day, between episodes of Poirot and Miss Marple.
This is the seventh book in the series and though I prefer to read a series in order this could be read as a standalone. Whilst I'm waiting for the next book I'll just have to go back to the beginning.
September 30, 2015
In ‘A Death in the Dales’ our female detective Kate Shackleton is on holiday with her teenage niece Harriet. This holiday is supposed to give Kate her much needed rest and Harriet her strength back, after a short sickbed. Together Kate and Harriet stay in Langcliffe, in the house of Lucian’s deceased Aunt. Since Lucian is courting Kate, this vacation seems to be the perfect way to see if a marriage will work between them and to get the house of Lucian’s Aunt Freda cleaned up. But soon Kate finds out Freda witnessed a murder years ago, where an innocent man was hanged for. Freda was never able to prove the man’s innocence and it haunted her till the day she died.
Now Kate is determined to get to the bottom of this, together with the help of her niece.
I loved the mystery in ‘A Death in the Dales’, and the way it stayed mysterious until the very end. The characters and the way this book takes place in the 1920’s, makes this book even more enjoyable. I loved how the characters interacted with each other and how the etiquettes in that time came back in this book. It’s just so fun to read about that time and to imagine yourself as a part of that time.
The character I liked the most was definitely Kate. It can’t be easy to be a young amateur female detective in the 1920’s. But Kate Shackleton really did it well. I loved how strong she was and how she worked hard to find out the truth. She was kind and passionate and she really is just a perfect female heroine.
There also is a little romance in this book. Lucian is obviously trying to charm Kate. And although Kate seems to like Lucian, I just didn’t like the guy from the beginning. I don’t have an obvious reason for it, but I just felt like something was of with him. Thankfully, the author revealed everything in the end and I don’t have to wonder about him anymore.
This being the second book in the Kate Shackleton series I read, I can definitely say I really recommend this book. It’s a fun book and works perfect for a cold evening.
Now Kate is determined to get to the bottom of this, together with the help of her niece.
I loved the mystery in ‘A Death in the Dales’, and the way it stayed mysterious until the very end. The characters and the way this book takes place in the 1920’s, makes this book even more enjoyable. I loved how the characters interacted with each other and how the etiquettes in that time came back in this book. It’s just so fun to read about that time and to imagine yourself as a part of that time.
The character I liked the most was definitely Kate. It can’t be easy to be a young amateur female detective in the 1920’s. But Kate Shackleton really did it well. I loved how strong she was and how she worked hard to find out the truth. She was kind and passionate and she really is just a perfect female heroine.
There also is a little romance in this book. Lucian is obviously trying to charm Kate. And although Kate seems to like Lucian, I just didn’t like the guy from the beginning. I don’t have an obvious reason for it, but I just felt like something was of with him. Thankfully, the author revealed everything in the end and I don’t have to wonder about him anymore.
This being the second book in the Kate Shackleton series I read, I can definitely say I really recommend this book. It’s a fun book and works perfect for a cold evening.
September 30, 2015
Frances Brody tells of the times when, after the end of World War II, have a woman driving through the countryside in English was a source of wonder, imagine if the same woman began to solve mysteries; this time the mystery goes back many years, when the owner of an inn is killed by what looks like the perfect culprit. Freda, the aunt of Lucian, however, has witnessed it all and has always claimed that they had blamed the wrong person, who had been an innocent end up on the gallows, but until her death no one had ever believed her. When Kate and her niece Harriet travelled to the old cottage Freda for a vacation do however soon to realize that things in Langcliffe are much more complicated than they seem. A nice cozy mystery where we have three different plots developing at the same time, but in the end I was a little disappointed because I didn't get the end I wanted.
Frances Brody racconta di tempi quando, dopo la fine della seconda guerra mondiale, avere una donna che guida per le campagne in inglese era fonte di stupore, figurarsi se la stessa donna poi si metteva a risolvere misteri, ma stavolta il mistero risale a tanti anni prima, quando il titolare di una locanda viene ucciso da quello che sembra il colpevole perfetto. La zia di Lucian peró ha assistito al tutto ed ha sempre proclamato che avevano incolpato la persona sbagliata, che era stato un innocente a finire sulla forca, ma fino alla sua morte nessuno le aveva mai creduto. Quando Kate e sua nipote Harriet si recano nel vecchio cottage di Freda per una breve vacanza fanno peró presto ad accorgersi che le cose a Langcliffe sono ben piú complicate di quello che sembrano. Un cozy mystery che é un piacere da leggere, che sviluppa tre trame contemporaneamente e che peró non mi ha dato il finale che desideravo.
THANKS TO PIATKUS FOR THE PREVIEW!
Frances Brody racconta di tempi quando, dopo la fine della seconda guerra mondiale, avere una donna che guida per le campagne in inglese era fonte di stupore, figurarsi se la stessa donna poi si metteva a risolvere misteri, ma stavolta il mistero risale a tanti anni prima, quando il titolare di una locanda viene ucciso da quello che sembra il colpevole perfetto. La zia di Lucian peró ha assistito al tutto ed ha sempre proclamato che avevano incolpato la persona sbagliata, che era stato un innocente a finire sulla forca, ma fino alla sua morte nessuno le aveva mai creduto. Quando Kate e sua nipote Harriet si recano nel vecchio cottage di Freda per una breve vacanza fanno peró presto ad accorgersi che le cose a Langcliffe sono ben piú complicate di quello che sembrano. Un cozy mystery che é un piacere da leggere, che sviluppa tre trame contemporaneamente e che peró non mi ha dato il finale che desideravo.
THANKS TO PIATKUS FOR THE PREVIEW!
October 1, 2015
It is the time of the year when it is crisp and cold outside (I'm in Scotland!) and I just want to cosy up with a cosy mystery. So Frances Brody has not disappointed with her Kate Shackleton mysteries.
Taking us back to the 1920's, this novel takes Kate to the Yorkshire dales, her companion is her niece Harriet, who is convalescing from an illness and as she is a fourteen year old girl she has an opinion on everything!
They are staying in the house of Kate's gentleman friend Lucian, the house did belong to his late aunt and because of her there is a mystery to be solved.
A pub landlord murdered, the wrong man convicted, Lucian's aunt saw the murderer and till her dying day was convinced that the man she saw carrying out the murder was not the man in prison for the crime. This led to her being ostracised by her fellow villagers who believe the right man was imprisoned.
Kate believes she can get to the bottom of it, to clear the man's name, to clear Lucian's aunts name but as she delves in to the past of the village she gets caught up in the affairs of the present.
For a small village there is quite the tangled web of intrigue and the presents problems seem to be connected to those events in the past.
Can Kate solve the mystery?
Cosy, compelling and wonderfully weaved, the landscape, the characters are just beautifully written. I love these books as reading them is like taking a step back in to the past and discovering old friends there.
A death in the dales in a great read, so cosy up in your chair of choice and help Kate solve the mystery!
Thanks to Piatkus for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Taking us back to the 1920's, this novel takes Kate to the Yorkshire dales, her companion is her niece Harriet, who is convalescing from an illness and as she is a fourteen year old girl she has an opinion on everything!
They are staying in the house of Kate's gentleman friend Lucian, the house did belong to his late aunt and because of her there is a mystery to be solved.
A pub landlord murdered, the wrong man convicted, Lucian's aunt saw the murderer and till her dying day was convinced that the man she saw carrying out the murder was not the man in prison for the crime. This led to her being ostracised by her fellow villagers who believe the right man was imprisoned.
Kate believes she can get to the bottom of it, to clear the man's name, to clear Lucian's aunts name but as she delves in to the past of the village she gets caught up in the affairs of the present.
For a small village there is quite the tangled web of intrigue and the presents problems seem to be connected to those events in the past.
Can Kate solve the mystery?
Cosy, compelling and wonderfully weaved, the landscape, the characters are just beautifully written. I love these books as reading them is like taking a step back in to the past and discovering old friends there.
A death in the dales in a great read, so cosy up in your chair of choice and help Kate solve the mystery!
Thanks to Piatkus for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2015
Kate Shackleton has been offered the use of a house in the Dales by her friend Lucian Simonson. She decides she will take her niece, Harriet there for a short holiday to help her recover from diphtheria. Kate decides she will have a holiday from her own investigations as well.
Almost on her arrival she is approached by a Mr Wrigglesworth who wants her to investigate a murder which was witnessed by Lucian's Aunt Freda - the former owner of the house in which Kate and Harriet are staying. Kate's curiosity gets the better of her good resolutions and she quickly become involved in investigating what appears to be a past miscarriage of justice as well as a suspicious death in the present.
I found this is a satisfying and enjoyable read. I liked Harriet as a character and I hope we shall see more of her in later books. I thought the author captured the atmosphere of the Dales village very well indeed. People are suspicious of newcomers and don't want to talk about past crimes which make Kate's investigations difficult.
I liked the way the author dealt with Kate's budding romance with Lucian and I thought it was very sensitively handled. This is an enjoyable addition to this series.
Almost on her arrival she is approached by a Mr Wrigglesworth who wants her to investigate a murder which was witnessed by Lucian's Aunt Freda - the former owner of the house in which Kate and Harriet are staying. Kate's curiosity gets the better of her good resolutions and she quickly become involved in investigating what appears to be a past miscarriage of justice as well as a suspicious death in the present.
I found this is a satisfying and enjoyable read. I liked Harriet as a character and I hope we shall see more of her in later books. I thought the author captured the atmosphere of the Dales village very well indeed. People are suspicious of newcomers and don't want to talk about past crimes which make Kate's investigations difficult.
I liked the way the author dealt with Kate's budding romance with Lucian and I thought it was very sensitively handled. This is an enjoyable addition to this series.
July 8, 2017
Something serious might happened between Kate & Dr Simonson. She was invited by the charming doctor to his hometown for a vacation. Kate came with Harriet, as Harriet needs a good rest from the illness she suffered previously at home. The two of them lived in Dr Simonson's aunt cottage. It was a beautiful house and inside, lies a mystery unsolved. Freda, the Aunt died few months back with an unsolved mystery and she lest behind letters for Kate to continue the investigation. These had put a strain in her relationship with the Doctor. He was not supportive in the investigation of a long yet unforgotten murder while Kate was as excited and determined as ever!
While reading the plot, you can also enjoy the greenery of Yorkshire Dales and its people in this book. I just love how Kate made her decision in their relationship and the reason behind it. I hope there will be more good news in the next books. Kate really deserve it!
While reading the plot, you can also enjoy the greenery of Yorkshire Dales and its people in this book. I just love how Kate made her decision in their relationship and the reason behind it. I hope there will be more good news in the next books. Kate really deserve it!
September 15, 2015
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC, but this in no way influences the review that follows.
I have not read anything by Frances Brody before but will definitely be reading more. Kate Shackleton is an amateur detective in the best traditions of Miss Marple and all those who followed. In particular she reminds me of the Agatha Christie characters, Tommy and Tuppence. This series of novels are set in a similar between the wars era and this one has a real charm to it, in spite of the subject of death. There are lovely light touches of humour too. Can you tell I really loved this?
I don't give anything away regarding plot in reviews, but everything tied up without feeling annoyingly so. Sometimes plots seem just too neat, but this is not a criticism for this novel. I just urge you to read if you like the cosy style of mystery and the lovely onstage of the 1920's.
I have not read anything by Frances Brody before but will definitely be reading more. Kate Shackleton is an amateur detective in the best traditions of Miss Marple and all those who followed. In particular she reminds me of the Agatha Christie characters, Tommy and Tuppence. This series of novels are set in a similar between the wars era and this one has a real charm to it, in spite of the subject of death. There are lovely light touches of humour too. Can you tell I really loved this?
I don't give anything away regarding plot in reviews, but everything tied up without feeling annoyingly so. Sometimes plots seem just too neat, but this is not a criticism for this novel. I just urge you to read if you like the cosy style of mystery and the lovely onstage of the 1920's.
January 4, 2025
Honestly, I read this book because when I did a search for 'holiday' fiction at my local library, this title kept coming up on the list. It does involve a holiday, though none of the winter ones I had in mind. Set in the early 20th century, this tale involves a woman who is ostensibly taking a break from solving problems people bring to her. You know how this works- and her young friend, who needs to recover her health, is definitely getting exercise while assisting in, um, not solving mysteries. I have respect for the protagonist's method of handling a romantic interest. Not giving anything away, though.
In addition, while the rest of the series is one I am curious about, this book stands on its own and did not cause me to feel uninformed about any kind of back story.
In addition, while the rest of the series is one I am curious about, this book stands on its own and did not cause me to feel uninformed about any kind of back story.
July 9, 2020
Not a particularly good mystery (abrupt, unlikely ending and a blase dismissal of a significant character who, it was revealed, intentionally overdosed his aunt when she was in pain and faces no consequences other than the loss of the main character's affections) but a soothing escape from the current shit show of the world. I listened to the audio book, which is capably read, and enjoyed being in the English countryside well enough to keep listening.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2015
Another excellent mystery from Frances Brody. I ordered mine from the UK and hope the US publisher prints it here soon for other fans of the Kate Shackleton series. I'm anxiously awaiting the next one now!
September 11, 2017
Really poor writer. Very simplistic plot with no real sleuthing involved. Would not waste my time reading any of her books
July 20, 2025
This book has quite a variety of puzzling characters and a curious mystery which comes under private sleuth Kate Shackleton’s scrutiny. The story is set in the Yorkshire village of Langcliffe where Kate and her bright young niece Harriet spend a recuperative holiday in Lilac Cottage formerly owned by the late Miss Freda and now owned by her nephew Dr Lucian Simonson, a current beau of Kate’s who has his eye set on a cosy arrangement. Hmm, wait and see, dear doctor. Our Kate is not a pushover. Meanwhile Kate gets involved in a lot of village tales, gossip, and a cold case investigation regarding a man who was murdered outside the local pub. The good doctor’s Aunt Freda was adamant until the day she died that the man convicted of the murder was innocent. All her notes and paperwork are handed over to Kate with the intention of Kate solving the mystery. Unfortunately it will make no difference to the hanged man convicted of the murder. In the meantime, several odd suspect characters are introduced into the plot, including an alleged poisoning of a farmer. There’s Martin, a boy farm labourer being badly treated, his sister Beth desperate to see him, strange villagers, buried documents and an interesting apothecary (chemist) who comes in very handy.
Young Harriet makes new friends but I think the situation gets a bit much for Kate, she becomes a counsellor as well as an investigator. Then, lo and behold, who should turn up but Mrs Sugden and Jim Sykes to give her a helping hand. Basically the team is sleuthing for interest sake and a lot of the action is in darkness over muddy ground but there are moments with the younger characters which moderate the bleakness and a jolly good courtroom scene. While I enjoyed this story (another great bookcover) I did feel the pace was missing. The abundance of script-written dialogue was annoying and did not create a good visual picture when the main characters were talking heads. It would be nice to know facial expressions, gestures, characteristics of the person involved. It detracts from the story and there is only so much a reader can envisage. On the whole, a reasonable plot and another enjoyable addition to this mystery series although Kate doesn't get anything to strenuous and nothing she cannot handle. Read for “Twelve Crime Novels, one a month with Goodreads Aussie Lovers of Crime/Mystery/Thriller/Suspense Annual Series Challenge 2025”. Five books to go!
Young Harriet makes new friends but I think the situation gets a bit much for Kate, she becomes a counsellor as well as an investigator. Then, lo and behold, who should turn up but Mrs Sugden and Jim Sykes to give her a helping hand. Basically the team is sleuthing for interest sake and a lot of the action is in darkness over muddy ground but there are moments with the younger characters which moderate the bleakness and a jolly good courtroom scene. While I enjoyed this story (another great bookcover) I did feel the pace was missing. The abundance of script-written dialogue was annoying and did not create a good visual picture when the main characters were talking heads. It would be nice to know facial expressions, gestures, characteristics of the person involved. It detracts from the story and there is only so much a reader can envisage. On the whole, a reasonable plot and another enjoyable addition to this mystery series although Kate doesn't get anything to strenuous and nothing she cannot handle. Read for “Twelve Crime Novels, one a month with Goodreads Aussie Lovers of Crime/Mystery/Thriller/Suspense Annual Series Challenge 2025”. Five books to go!
August 19, 2018
This was a fun read and one I did not want to put down. The characters are believable and interesting. The pace is well-measured. New characters, clues or evidence appear evenly throughout the story holding me to the page when I would otherwise put the book down. I am surprised at how well this was done without resorting to 'thriller' tactics. I like Kate Shackleton and her associates, she has a bit of the same gumption as Phryne Fisher without the wild streak.
Oftentimes when I try out a new author, and a mystery begins well, I find that by the middle of the book the weaknesses appear: the main character takes a ridiculous risk that sets up the exciting passage but also challenges my suspension of disbelief; or the author drags red herrings about like a drunken fishmonger just to fill up the pages and distract you from the solution; even more often, the solution and ending are unsatisfying - as if the author was under a tight deadline or had simply run out of inspiration. When I read A Death in the Dales I kept waiting for one of these disappointments to creep in. But, that was not the case at all. I enjoyed the book right to the end, and liked the fact that some characters found the usual type of happy ending, whilst others realized they were on the wrong path and needed to look elsewhere for their fulfillment. The mysteries were resolved in a satisfactory and believable way. Moreover, I loved the lighter atmosphere of this book compared with a lot of popular mystery series today. And it was fun exploring the landscape and culture of the locale riding alongside Kate and her multiple sidekicks. I can't wait to pick up another of her books. Thank you Frances Brody for a lovely escape.
Oftentimes when I try out a new author, and a mystery begins well, I find that by the middle of the book the weaknesses appear: the main character takes a ridiculous risk that sets up the exciting passage but also challenges my suspension of disbelief; or the author drags red herrings about like a drunken fishmonger just to fill up the pages and distract you from the solution; even more often, the solution and ending are unsatisfying - as if the author was under a tight deadline or had simply run out of inspiration. When I read A Death in the Dales I kept waiting for one of these disappointments to creep in. But, that was not the case at all. I enjoyed the book right to the end, and liked the fact that some characters found the usual type of happy ending, whilst others realized they were on the wrong path and needed to look elsewhere for their fulfillment. The mysteries were resolved in a satisfactory and believable way. Moreover, I loved the lighter atmosphere of this book compared with a lot of popular mystery series today. And it was fun exploring the landscape and culture of the locale riding alongside Kate and her multiple sidekicks. I can't wait to pick up another of her books. Thank you Frances Brody for a lovely escape.
October 20, 2021
Kate Shackleton has been invited by her friend Dr. Lucian Simonson to stay with her niece Harriet at his late Aunt Freda’s home in the Yorkshire Dales, an invitation doubly appealing to Kate because Harriet is recovering from a bout of diphtheria and because she and Lucian have tentatively been courting and this visit might move their relationship in a new direction. Once there, however, Kate is approached by the local pharmacist Mr. Wigglesworth, an elderly man who had been great friends with Freda and who knew that Freda had very much wanted to meet Kate before her death because of a murder case 10 years previously in which Freda had been certain that the convicted (and subsequently hanged) man had been innocent; knowing of Kate’s investigative successes, Freda hoped that Kate would want to investigate this miscarriage of justice. Before she knows it, Kate is embroiled not only in that “cold case,” but also in the unexpected death of a local farmer and the disappearance of a mistreated farmhand, despite the fact that Lucian wants her to have nothing to do with any of these cases…. Once again Ms. Brody has brought us a well-researched historical novel set in rural Yorkshire of the 1920s, complete with intrigue, secrets and, well, a romance for Kate. How she deals with all of this, both in her professional capacity and her personal life, comprises the meat of the story, and the investigations kept me guessing throughout the book. I’ve noted before that I don’t think these books need to be read in order (this is the seventh in the series) and that is true here; but the reader who has read the previous novels will have a much better understanding of the relationships between Kate, Lucian, Harriet and others, which will enhance the story that much more. Recommended.
March 26, 2024
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This is book is part of the Kate Shackleton series. This book can be read as a standalone but there are a few small references to events in the other books. They are explained.
Kate takes her niece, Harriett, on a holiday after she is released from the hospital after having diphtheria. Harriett looks up to Kate and wants to be her assistant investigator. They head out to a small town and Kate gets drawn into a variety of investigations. One is a 10 year old murder mystery. In addition, Harriett befriends a girl, Beth, whose brother is missing and she wants to help her find him. There is a small matter of some missing letters. Finally, there is another mysterious death with some unpleasant circumstances surrounding it.
As the story progresses, the author develops layers and different possibilities for what might have happened. The story has a variety of characters in it and they are developed as needed. There are surprises. Different references are made that later become important.
There were times when I felt the author’s writing was a little unclear. That could be because it reflected a historical time period or because it includes slang that I do not know.
The book was told from mostly from Kate’s point of view but includes a few scenes from Harriett’s POV and one from Mrs. Sugden’s POV. The punctuation is incorrect in spots.
Kate makes a decision about her future in this book. I was disappointed in an action taken by Lucian.
One thing I have noticed is that in each book I’ve read (3 total), the author makes sure to say that Kate is a non-believer.
The book was a good read.
December 7, 2017
It's 1926, and investigator Kate Shackleton is in need of a holiday, as is her 14 year old niece Harriet, just recovering from a hospital stay. They head out from Leeds to a small town in Yorkshire, where Kate's possibly-fiance Lucian has a house and is planning to live once his new practice is set up. As soon as they get there, though, an old friend of Lucian's aunt--the aunt who raised him and had owned the house until her recent death--arrives with a mystery for Kate. Ten years previously, Flora (I think that was her name) witnessed a murder across the street in the middle of the night, and despite her protestations, the wrong man was convicted and hanged. She had wanted to meet Kate in the hopes that Kate would investigate, so of course Kate does (to Lucian's dismay). As she and Harriet get more entangled in the lives of the local villagers and farmers, it seems there's a much darker underbelly to rural life than Kate had thought.
I find this series thoughtful and intelligent, with wonderful world-building both historical and place-oriented. And it feels completely natural, because the details don't call attention to themselves--they are just the facts of life at the time, with a scarcity of motor cars and petrol and phones. I like her plots because she'll start with one and then solve it halfway through, but it opens the door to more mysteries than you ever suspected. She also does a good job of growing her main characters without drowning them in angst. A great series if you like thoughtful historicals that are not action-adventure mysteries.
I find this series thoughtful and intelligent, with wonderful world-building both historical and place-oriented. And it feels completely natural, because the details don't call attention to themselves--they are just the facts of life at the time, with a scarcity of motor cars and petrol and phones. I like her plots because she'll start with one and then solve it halfway through, but it opens the door to more mysteries than you ever suspected. She also does a good job of growing her main characters without drowning them in angst. A great series if you like thoughtful historicals that are not action-adventure mysteries.
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