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DI Hillary Greene #7
Murder in the Meadow
Wayne Sutton is found dead by a stream in a beautiful meadow. His head has been bashed in and a red paper heart left on his body. The handsome young artist had a reputation as a ladies’ man.
DI Hillary Greene discovers that many wealthy married women were buying his paintings and taking ‘private’ art lesson from him. It appears that several of them might have wanted him dead.
Hillary also has a new detective sergeant, Gemma Fordham. Seemingly efficient and pleasant, she harbours a secret agenda.
Can Hillary get to the bottom of a complex case involving jealousy, love, and cold-blooded murder?
This is a crime mystery full of well-observed characters, which will have you gripped from start to finish.
DI Hillary Greene discovers that many wealthy married women were buying his paintings and taking ‘private’ art lesson from him. It appears that several of them might have wanted him dead.
Hillary also has a new detective sergeant, Gemma Fordham. Seemingly efficient and pleasant, she harbours a secret agenda.
Can Hillary get to the bottom of a complex case involving jealousy, love, and cold-blooded murder?
This is a crime mystery full of well-observed characters, which will have you gripped from start to finish.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
5183 people are currently reading
864 people want to read
About the author
Faith Martin
99 books980 followersFaith Martin is a pen name of English author Jacquie Walton, who is best known for her popular detective series, starring Detective Inspector Hillary Greene.
As Joyce Cato, she writes more classically-inspired 'cosy' murder mysteries, such as the Monica Noble mystery series.
As Maxine Barry, her latest romance novels are now available from Corazon Books.
As Jessie Daniels, her 'spooky' crime novel, The Lavender Lady Casefile came out in November 2017.
As Joyce Cato, she writes more classically-inspired 'cosy' murder mysteries, such as the Monica Noble mystery series.
As Maxine Barry, her latest romance novels are now available from Corazon Books.
As Jessie Daniels, her 'spooky' crime novel, The Lavender Lady Casefile came out in November 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
March 14, 2022
This really is the best series! Great stories, excellent characters, the author just nails it every time.
In Murder in the Meadow the victim is found in a field with a red paper heart on his chest, held in place by the rock which was used to kill him. As usual Hillary's team commence their excellent police work under her guidance, but that is just one part of this gripping book.
Maybe even more interesting is the introduction of a new DS, Gemma Fordham, who is immediately shown to have an ulterior motive in her request to be placed under DI Hillary Greene. Luckily Hillary is onto her almost at once and the very last sentence in the book is an absolute gem. This author surely knows how to make you want to hurry to the next book!
So good but definitely a series to read in order. It is the characters who make it so brilliant.
In Murder in the Meadow the victim is found in a field with a red paper heart on his chest, held in place by the rock which was used to kill him. As usual Hillary's team commence their excellent police work under her guidance, but that is just one part of this gripping book.
Maybe even more interesting is the introduction of a new DS, Gemma Fordham, who is immediately shown to have an ulterior motive in her request to be placed under DI Hillary Greene. Luckily Hillary is onto her almost at once and the very last sentence in the book is an absolute gem. This author surely knows how to make you want to hurry to the next book!
So good but definitely a series to read in order. It is the characters who make it so brilliant.
June 5, 2023
DI Hillary Greene took her new DS, Gemma Fordham, along to the notification of a dead body beside a creek, wanting to see how she would go. It didn't take her long to discover the identity of the handsome young man as Gemma did the door-to-door knocking, and soon they were learning much about Wayne Sutton's life. He was an artist with an eye for women, older than he was. His work was good, but not great - in Hillary's opinion at least. But as she and her team dug deeper, it seemed there were quite a few who had motive to kill Wayne Sutton...
Death in the Meadow is the 7th in the DI Hillary Greene series by Faith Martin and it's another exceptional read. Hillary always has her wits about her, and can sense when someone is lying to her, being less than truthful. I'm thoroughly enjoying this series and already I'm looking forward to #8. Recommended.
Death in the Meadow is the 7th in the DI Hillary Greene series by Faith Martin and it's another exceptional read. Hillary always has her wits about her, and can sense when someone is lying to her, being less than truthful. I'm thoroughly enjoying this series and already I'm looking forward to #8. Recommended.
January 9, 2018
Wayne Sutton is found dead by a stream in a beautiful meadow. His head has been bashed in and a red paper heart has been left on his body. The handsome young artist has a reputation as a ladies man. DI Hilary Greene discovers that there were many wealthy married women buying paintings and taking private art lessons from him. It appears several of them might have wanted him dead.
DI Hilary Greene has a new Detective Sargent, Gemma Fordham. She is efficient but harbours a secret agenda. The pace is well set with a long list of suspects. I quite like this authors style as she draws you I and makes you feel you are part of the book. A case that involves love, jealousy and murder. This is turning into a really good series. This is the 7th book in this series.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Faith Martin for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
DI Hilary Greene has a new Detective Sargent, Gemma Fordham. She is efficient but harbours a secret agenda. The pace is well set with a long list of suspects. I quite like this authors style as she draws you I and makes you feel you are part of the book. A case that involves love, jealousy and murder. This is turning into a really good series. This is the 7th book in this series.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Faith Martin for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2018
Goodreads seems to have it in for me by failing to post my written reviews. 😭 Fourth time lucky, otherwise this will just be stars.
I received a review copy of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
I'd just like to thank Joffe Books for putting me on their ARC list because otherwise I wouldn't have been introduced to author Faith Martin and her DI Hillary Greene series. Absolutely Awwwesome!! That's how I'd describe the exemplary writing and characters in this book and a series I know I will read in it's entirety. As per my usual style (giant eyeroll please) I have dipped my toes into the series from back to front, so I'll leave a more in depth review for the first book.
It took me a few chapters to get into the swing of things due to the author's writing style but I must say it complements the main protagonist DI Hillary Greene's character perfectly. Short, succinct and definitely no-nonsense there was not a superfluous word to be found. I loved the depth put into the characters and that the novel not only covers the investigation of a crime but also the mystery and intrigue surrounding the characters in Hillary's team and what looks to be an ongoing back story connecting certain players to Hillary's late, and very unlamented, husband who was a corrupt police officer. Hmmm the whole DS Gemma Fordham angle has me intrigued. I've also just finished the first book of the series and I'm well and truly hooked. p.s. This would make a great British TV serial!
I received a review copy of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
I'd just like to thank Joffe Books for putting me on their ARC list because otherwise I wouldn't have been introduced to author Faith Martin and her DI Hillary Greene series. Absolutely Awwwesome!! That's how I'd describe the exemplary writing and characters in this book and a series I know I will read in it's entirety. As per my usual style (giant eyeroll please) I have dipped my toes into the series from back to front, so I'll leave a more in depth review for the first book.
It took me a few chapters to get into the swing of things due to the author's writing style but I must say it complements the main protagonist DI Hillary Greene's character perfectly. Short, succinct and definitely no-nonsense there was not a superfluous word to be found. I loved the depth put into the characters and that the novel not only covers the investigation of a crime but also the mystery and intrigue surrounding the characters in Hillary's team and what looks to be an ongoing back story connecting certain players to Hillary's late, and very unlamented, husband who was a corrupt police officer. Hmmm the whole DS Gemma Fordham angle has me intrigued. I've also just finished the first book of the series and I'm well and truly hooked. p.s. This would make a great British TV serial!
January 7, 2018
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A REVISED EDITION OF A BOOK FIRST PUBLISHED AS “BESIDE A NARROW STREAM.”
DI Hillary Greene makes another appearance in the 7th book in this series. This is also the introduction of her new DS, Gemma Fordham. While seemingly smart, and efficient, she also has an agenda of her own .... one she absolutely does not want Hillary to discover.
Greene is tasked with the investigation of the murder of a young man, an artist, and a ladies' man. He's found with a huge red paper heart pinned to his chest. Suspects seem to come out of the woodwork .. mostly rich married women buying his paintings and taking private lessons.
Angry husbands, jealous girlfriends, a disapproving family, there are plenty of people who wanted him dead. Greene will have to work hard to dig through the lies and secrets.
This series has become one of my favorites. The characters are skillfully drawn. Each book is like coming home to family. Greene is tough but fair, and a terrific instructor for those under her wing. This is a well written crime fiction series filled with twists and turns and surprises the reader never sees coming.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 20, 2018
What a heart pounding opening. Two young lads out on the river bank to catch tiddlers for an afternoons entertainment when one spots a man laid in the grass. When they call he doesn’t stir and when they go to him he is dead with a red paper heart on his chest. I did feel for the lads as they decided who should go for help and who was brave enough to stay. It is quite a touching scene. All quite surreal in the beautiful meadow and gentle water flowing near by.
Now this is my first encounter with DI Hillary Greene as I am new to this series and this is already book 7 I felt that I really slotted into it easy and I wasn’t the only new comer. DS Gemma Fordham is also a new arrival and like me is keen to find out the story of the dead man. Now you know when you meet someone you just have that feeling that something just doesn’t hang right well DI Hillary Greene hadn’t got to her rank without being a good judge of character and there was something definitely in the air. The snippets of the past, from previous books, were a real bonus.
There was no denying that the victim would have been quite a catch, when he was alive, he had been a rather handsome bloke, so was the red heart an indication of the spurned lover? Only time would tell. Wayne Sutton was a local artist who regularly visited his more affluent clients to give private art lessons and sell on his unusual pictures that he had created. Unfortunately he made as many enemies as admires which doesn’t help in the investigation.
I just loved DI Hillary Greene’s no-nonsense attitude, she is straight talking and expects the same from the people that she works with. That is what makes her so approachable with the most difficult of subjects at times. The thing is I wouldn’t want to come down on the wrong side of her and lets just say the clock is ticking………..
This has certainly been my kind of read. A very entertaining murder mystery, with an extremely likable DI and the promise of a bubbling and festering secret that will erupt spectacularly probably in the next book.
Now this is my first encounter with DI Hillary Greene as I am new to this series and this is already book 7 I felt that I really slotted into it easy and I wasn’t the only new comer. DS Gemma Fordham is also a new arrival and like me is keen to find out the story of the dead man. Now you know when you meet someone you just have that feeling that something just doesn’t hang right well DI Hillary Greene hadn’t got to her rank without being a good judge of character and there was something definitely in the air. The snippets of the past, from previous books, were a real bonus.
There was no denying that the victim would have been quite a catch, when he was alive, he had been a rather handsome bloke, so was the red heart an indication of the spurned lover? Only time would tell. Wayne Sutton was a local artist who regularly visited his more affluent clients to give private art lessons and sell on his unusual pictures that he had created. Unfortunately he made as many enemies as admires which doesn’t help in the investigation.
I just loved DI Hillary Greene’s no-nonsense attitude, she is straight talking and expects the same from the people that she works with. That is what makes her so approachable with the most difficult of subjects at times. The thing is I wouldn’t want to come down on the wrong side of her and lets just say the clock is ticking………..
This has certainly been my kind of read. A very entertaining murder mystery, with an extremely likable DI and the promise of a bubbling and festering secret that will erupt spectacularly probably in the next book.
January 16, 2018
This is book 7 in the brilliant Hillary Greene series and the books get better and better. I have read all the books in this series and have got to know Hillary very well.
Hillary is a brilliant detective but is also an excellent mentor for the younger members of her team. She is often given novice detectives to 'train' and this means that she regularly loses team members to promotion. I was sad to see Tommy go and this time it was Janine that had moved on. Keith replaced Tommy and we are getting to know him but this book sees the introduction of Gemma but it appears Gemma has a hidden agenda and immediately we pick up on bad vibes between her and Hillary. Added to the obnoxious Frank and personal problems for Keith this book sees Hillary struggling with the case and her brood.
A dead body with a red paper heart and no clues except a note from a mysterious Annie and Hillary and her team are struggling to find even pieces to the jigsaw let alone fit them together. The victim is a gigolo and has many women all of whom could be the murderer but there are many other candidates too.
Another case with a very intricate plot to keep the reader turning page after page until the shocking ending. The issues with Gemma and Keith bring extra dimensions to the story to make it a brilliant read.
Absolutely loving this series each book gets better and better.
Hillary is a brilliant detective but is also an excellent mentor for the younger members of her team. She is often given novice detectives to 'train' and this means that she regularly loses team members to promotion. I was sad to see Tommy go and this time it was Janine that had moved on. Keith replaced Tommy and we are getting to know him but this book sees the introduction of Gemma but it appears Gemma has a hidden agenda and immediately we pick up on bad vibes between her and Hillary. Added to the obnoxious Frank and personal problems for Keith this book sees Hillary struggling with the case and her brood.
A dead body with a red paper heart and no clues except a note from a mysterious Annie and Hillary and her team are struggling to find even pieces to the jigsaw let alone fit them together. The victim is a gigolo and has many women all of whom could be the murderer but there are many other candidates too.
Another case with a very intricate plot to keep the reader turning page after page until the shocking ending. The issues with Gemma and Keith bring extra dimensions to the story to make it a brilliant read.
Absolutely loving this series each book gets better and better.
January 10, 2018
Even in the DI Hillary Greene's Police team, the subtle in-house criminals weave their own patterns of deceit, by projecting a facade that shines a bit too much. Another intriguing and mind-boggling Hillary Greene Mystery, with her usual nonchalant way of doing things, yep this one was very compelling and interesting. A murder mystery with lots of false leads that sometimes baffled the cops, but they didn’t let up, as usual. A captivating and thrilling read, I enjoyed it.
January 11, 2018
5 stars
Two young boys find a body in a meadow. DI Hillary Greene’s team catches the case. Hillary just met her new DS Gemma Fordham a few minutes before they received the call. Gemma seems a real go-getter. She also has an ulterior motive.
The dead man is young and appears to have been hit in the head before he was drowned in a nearby stream. A large red heart was pinned to his chest. The investigation begins. Almost immediately, Gemma has an elderly lady identify the young man. His name is Wayne Sutton.
DC Keith Barrington has been with the team for six months now and has proved to be observant and dedicated to his work.
When notifying the parent of their son’s demise, Hillary is told that he was an artist. Wayne’s girlfriend was notified and her parents knew he liked to play the field. Her father disliked him intensely. The suspects are lining up quickly as a wealthy woman comes into the police station and talks to Hillary. Apparently Wayne was a womanizer. The rest of the team is out interviewing people and tracking down leads. They meet several wealthy middle-aged women and disgruntled husbands. With a plethora of suspects, Hillary’s team has their work cut out for them.
Meanwhile, Gemma carries on with her own personal covert investigation. She is very bold. One of the uniform officers at the nick recognizes her.
Suddenly, Hillary has one of her famous epiphanies. The identity of the killer comes as somewhat of a surprise, but it’s more than half the fun just getting there.
Faith Martin just keeps getting better and better. I really like DI Hillary and she treats her team so even-handed and fairly that she would be a delight to have as a boss. This book is very well written and plotted. It reads linearly as the reader follows the police investigation. We get to meet all kinds of truly weird and somewhat eccentric people. Keep writing, Ms. Martin!
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this most excellent read for me to enjoy.
Two young boys find a body in a meadow. DI Hillary Greene’s team catches the case. Hillary just met her new DS Gemma Fordham a few minutes before they received the call. Gemma seems a real go-getter. She also has an ulterior motive.
The dead man is young and appears to have been hit in the head before he was drowned in a nearby stream. A large red heart was pinned to his chest. The investigation begins. Almost immediately, Gemma has an elderly lady identify the young man. His name is Wayne Sutton.
DC Keith Barrington has been with the team for six months now and has proved to be observant and dedicated to his work.
When notifying the parent of their son’s demise, Hillary is told that he was an artist. Wayne’s girlfriend was notified and her parents knew he liked to play the field. Her father disliked him intensely. The suspects are lining up quickly as a wealthy woman comes into the police station and talks to Hillary. Apparently Wayne was a womanizer. The rest of the team is out interviewing people and tracking down leads. They meet several wealthy middle-aged women and disgruntled husbands. With a plethora of suspects, Hillary’s team has their work cut out for them.
Meanwhile, Gemma carries on with her own personal covert investigation. She is very bold. One of the uniform officers at the nick recognizes her.
Suddenly, Hillary has one of her famous epiphanies. The identity of the killer comes as somewhat of a surprise, but it’s more than half the fun just getting there.
Faith Martin just keeps getting better and better. I really like DI Hillary and she treats her team so even-handed and fairly that she would be a delight to have as a boss. This book is very well written and plotted. It reads linearly as the reader follows the police investigation. We get to meet all kinds of truly weird and somewhat eccentric people. Keep writing, Ms. Martin!
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this most excellent read for me to enjoy.
January 9, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for a review copy of Murder in the Meadow, the seventh novel in the DI Hillary Greene series.
Hillary is hardly introduced to her new sergeant, DS Gemma Fordham, when they get called out to a body discovered by two 10 years boys. Wayne Sutton, local artist and gigolo, has been hit over the head and drowned in a stream. With Wayne's proclivities there is no lack of suspects but Hillary has more to worry her, mostly what her team are getting up to and her own love life.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in the Meadow. It is always pleasant to enter Hillary's world and while many of the characters change over the series there is always a nice sense of familiarity. The novel also has an interesting plot with plenty of twists and turns and blind alleys as the team try to untangle Wayne's complicated life. I admit to guessing the motive straightaway as Ms Martin has the habit of dropping hints early in the novels but the killer took a while longer. Somehow it doesn't seem important as much of the reading pleasure comes from watching Hillary trying to unravel the clues.
The characters are mostly pleasant, apart from the obnoxious Frank Ross who doesn't get much of a starring role in this novel, but they all have secrets. Hillary is still mulling over her relationship with DI Mike Regis of the Vice Squad (surely it can't still be called that!), Keith is having relationship problems and Gemma has transferred to Hillary's team with the express intention of secretly hunting down Hillary's ex-husband Ronnie's millions (little does she know...). Throughout it all Hillary sails on serenely, not letting her feelings show but making it her business to find out what her team is up to. The edge to her thoughts and thought processes is what makes the novels special.
Murder in the Meadow is another welcome addition to the series and I have no hesitation in recommending it.
Hillary is hardly introduced to her new sergeant, DS Gemma Fordham, when they get called out to a body discovered by two 10 years boys. Wayne Sutton, local artist and gigolo, has been hit over the head and drowned in a stream. With Wayne's proclivities there is no lack of suspects but Hillary has more to worry her, mostly what her team are getting up to and her own love life.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in the Meadow. It is always pleasant to enter Hillary's world and while many of the characters change over the series there is always a nice sense of familiarity. The novel also has an interesting plot with plenty of twists and turns and blind alleys as the team try to untangle Wayne's complicated life. I admit to guessing the motive straightaway as Ms Martin has the habit of dropping hints early in the novels but the killer took a while longer. Somehow it doesn't seem important as much of the reading pleasure comes from watching Hillary trying to unravel the clues.
The characters are mostly pleasant, apart from the obnoxious Frank Ross who doesn't get much of a starring role in this novel, but they all have secrets. Hillary is still mulling over her relationship with DI Mike Regis of the Vice Squad (surely it can't still be called that!), Keith is having relationship problems and Gemma has transferred to Hillary's team with the express intention of secretly hunting down Hillary's ex-husband Ronnie's millions (little does she know...). Throughout it all Hillary sails on serenely, not letting her feelings show but making it her business to find out what her team is up to. The edge to her thoughts and thought processes is what makes the novels special.
Murder in the Meadow is another welcome addition to the series and I have no hesitation in recommending it.
June 25, 2019
My wife will say that I never admit that I am wrong. This is incorrect, of course, as happening so infrequently, she just forgets ! However, it seems that I have been wrong about Faith Martin and this series.
I didnt enjoy the first couple of books but because my wife thought so much, both of this series and another, that she read the lot back to back almost, I persisted.
I think that the authors style of writing has changed for the better and the stories themselves have started to mature with periods of pageturning excitement in the previous book and a good who-done-it element in this one. Thankfully, although the armchair detective was given a nudge in this book , it wasnt the glaringly obvious kick that even a blindfolded Insp Clouseau would have spotted, as has been the case before.
The back story continues to feature quite prominently and in this book , leaves us with an intriguing situation to look forward to in the next.
One point still worries my "surely it wouldnt happen like that " brain. It concerns Frank Ross. Surely , as everyone knows , how useless he is, he would have been given formal warning and dismissed by now. Or, is the reason part of the story still to be unfolded.
I didnt enjoy the first couple of books but because my wife thought so much, both of this series and another, that she read the lot back to back almost, I persisted.
I think that the authors style of writing has changed for the better and the stories themselves have started to mature with periods of pageturning excitement in the previous book and a good who-done-it element in this one. Thankfully, although the armchair detective was given a nudge in this book , it wasnt the glaringly obvious kick that even a blindfolded Insp Clouseau would have spotted, as has been the case before.
The back story continues to feature quite prominently and in this book , leaves us with an intriguing situation to look forward to in the next.
One point still worries my "surely it wouldnt happen like that " brain. It concerns Frank Ross. Surely , as everyone knows , how useless he is, he would have been given formal warning and dismissed by now. Or, is the reason part of the story still to be unfolded.
January 10, 2018
Murder in the Meadow- Faith Martin 4* Jan 11th- Joffe
Every Faith Martin Murder book is like putting on that comfortable pair of slippers. You know they fit, that you can sit and walk around in them safely and that they won’t cause you any harm or upset you in any way. This time an artist’s body is found by two young boys out fishing.He has rather a reputation amongst the ladies. Could this be a reason for his murder? Speaking of fishing, the new Sargeant attached to DI Hillary Greene is up to something and Hillary doesn’t quite know what but she knows to trust her instincts. I love these books as they have a strong female lead whilst maintaining the reality of any situation.The characterisation in these books is what gives them the edge and the highly readable factor. One in a series, which would stand alone however some of the team factors and background stories would not make sense if you haven’t read the others- and why miss out on other excellent reads? As ever an excellent plot line and well rounded characters take you into the heart of things. A story to enjoy without any nasty tastes or nightmares with a little humour along the way.
Every Faith Martin Murder book is like putting on that comfortable pair of slippers. You know they fit, that you can sit and walk around in them safely and that they won’t cause you any harm or upset you in any way. This time an artist’s body is found by two young boys out fishing.He has rather a reputation amongst the ladies. Could this be a reason for his murder? Speaking of fishing, the new Sargeant attached to DI Hillary Greene is up to something and Hillary doesn’t quite know what but she knows to trust her instincts. I love these books as they have a strong female lead whilst maintaining the reality of any situation.The characterisation in these books is what gives them the edge and the highly readable factor. One in a series, which would stand alone however some of the team factors and background stories would not make sense if you haven’t read the others- and why miss out on other excellent reads? As ever an excellent plot line and well rounded characters take you into the heart of things. A story to enjoy without any nasty tastes or nightmares with a little humour along the way.
August 27, 2018
"The art of crime solving personified"
Another winner. Hillary Greene has a new DS in this outing. It would be too easy for Gemma Fordham to arrive without any baggage and just like Keith Barrington, the young DC who pitched up in the last story, she has skeletons in the closet. The descriptive passages of the Oxfordshire countryside add a charming layer to every story. Most murder cases are solved by acute observation and often Faith Martin masks the potential clues with verbal distractions. While you envisage rambling roses and colourful hanging baskets it's easy to miss a delicate hint. So keep your concentration. There are so many threads related to the case of the murdered artist and when you add in the tangled lives of Hillary and her colleagues you've got a real page-turner on your hands. Can't wait for the next instalment.
Another winner. Hillary Greene has a new DS in this outing. It would be too easy for Gemma Fordham to arrive without any baggage and just like Keith Barrington, the young DC who pitched up in the last story, she has skeletons in the closet. The descriptive passages of the Oxfordshire countryside add a charming layer to every story. Most murder cases are solved by acute observation and often Faith Martin masks the potential clues with verbal distractions. While you envisage rambling roses and colourful hanging baskets it's easy to miss a delicate hint. So keep your concentration. There are so many threads related to the case of the murdered artist and when you add in the tangled lives of Hillary and her colleagues you've got a real page-turner on your hands. Can't wait for the next instalment.
January 17, 2018
wow my second book by this author and i loved it. its the seventh in the DI Hillary greene series but her books dont have to be read in order. so easy to get into as DI greene goes out to solve the mystery of wayne sutton who is found dead by a stream and a red paper heart is found on his body. this book kept me intense all the way through i enjoyed every page of it. this author has a way of pulling you into the story and look forward to more in the series
April 14, 2020
I have already made up my mind to read the entire series.
This is one of the books I didn't like so much, because the Jane Austen painting was mentioned at the beginning. I will leave it at that to avoid spoilers...
This is one of the books I didn't like so much, because the Jane Austen painting was mentioned at the beginning. I will leave it at that to avoid spoilers...
January 19, 2018
Good read
Pleasant page turner with good storyline. Looking forward to the next one in the series to see what the characters get up to
Pleasant page turner with good storyline. Looking forward to the next one in the series to see what the characters get up to
July 12, 2019
Cliffhanger of a sort will keep me reading this series. These books are great reads.
December 30, 2022
Another great read, and I had no idea who did the murder until the reveal. The h is tiring of her relationship as she is wonderfully complete in herself. I really like her - she's kind, competent and so very clever and self aware.
August 18, 2024
A body is found in a meadow by two children. Hillary has a new team since her DS transferred and her DC was promoted. The victim was reputedly an artist, though people that knew him refer more to his fondness for older women with money. Hillary feels there is something off about Gemma, her new DS, even though the women seems efficient, and her new DC is having problems with his love life. Ross is as usual useless and obnoxious.
January 15, 2018
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I have read all of the books released in this series so far and this one has been my favourite to date! It is well written, I loved the characters and the plot and haven't hesitated to give the book 5 stars!
The book is written at a steady pace and that was ideal for this story - I liked the introduction of the new DS to the series and look forward to seeing more interactions between her and Hillary in future books.
Really looking forward to reading the next book from Faith which is due out soon!
I have read all of the books released in this series so far and this one has been my favourite to date! It is well written, I loved the characters and the plot and haven't hesitated to give the book 5 stars!
The book is written at a steady pace and that was ideal for this story - I liked the introduction of the new DS to the series and look forward to seeing more interactions between her and Hillary in future books.
Really looking forward to reading the next book from Faith which is due out soon!
July 1, 2019
This series is picking up the pace, which I appreciate. Wayne Sutton is found murdered in a meadow by a stream by two young boys. Poor boys , who will stay and who will go for help? You have to feel sorry for them. Wayne proves to be a gigolo who preys on wealthy older women through his art lessons, good looks and charm. This provides a long list of possible suspects for Hillary Green and her team to sort out. Throw in a new DS Gemma Fordham with an agenda of her own, the obnoxious Frank Ross and the tangled lives of others on the team and you have a cracking good tale. As usual Hillary Green triumphs in her own unique way.
January 22, 2018
This is the fifth book by Faith Martin that I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing. I have loved each and every one and ‘Murder In The Meadow’ is no exception but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely love the character of Detective Inspector Hillary Greene. She is a female police officer and is fast approaching middle age. She has been through some tough times, which in part is due to her criminal late husband, Ronnie Greene. He sounds as though he was a real nasty piece of work. Hilary didn’t realise quite how criminal her husband was until after he died. Not only that but Hilary was investigated after his death too as it was felt that she must have known some, if not all, of what he was up to. This must have been particularly humiliating for her. She has had to work hard to make people respect her again and she finally seems to have won their respect. Hilary didn’t know about what her husband was getting up to but she feels a sense of shame given that she didn’t know the extent of his criminality. DI Greene finally seems to be making a positive life for herself again although there has been & is the odd hiccup along the way. She is still seeing the bloke she was with, who works in the Vice Squad, although there are a few issues within the relationship. DI Greene also has an admirer/ stalker within the police force too. She has let him down gently but it appears that he is not going to take no for an answer. I was so hoping that Hilary would knee him or kick him in the balls. DI Greene gets on with most of her team. There is a new Detective Sergeant on the team, who seems unduly interested in DI Greene and her caseload. Hilary is not sure how far to trust this new DS and she is intrigued as to why the DS is so interested in her and her cases. The reasoning as to why is gradually explained through the book. The bane of DI Greene’s life is another person on her team- Detective Sergeant Frank Ross. He was her late husband’s best friend and he was in it up to his neck with him, although I don’t think that they managed to find any hard evidence to confront him with. I am not sure if Hilary Greene has elected to keep Ross on her team where she can keep an eye on him or whether or not her superiors have told her she is stuck with him. DS Frank Ross is a sexist, racist, homophobic, lazy, borderline alcoholic pig, who only turns up when he feels like it, he ‘conducts’ meetings in the local pub and he does the least amount of work necessary. He also has no respect for his superiors which grates on Hilary. I began to wonder which charm school Frank Ross had been to because it clearly hasn’t worked and he needs to claim a refund. I so wished I could have jumped into the pages of the book to knee him in the balls and slap him around the head with a wet flip flop for being such a creepy, old lech.
As with every other book by Faith Martin that I have read, I absolutely loved ‘Murder In The Meadow’. The story hit the ground running and maintained pace throughout. The writing style is such that you can’t fail to be drawn in from the first word on the first page and because you need to find out who did it and why, you just keep reading on and on. I became just as addicted to reading ‘Murder In the Meadow’ as I have done with each and every one of Faith’s books. I was so into the story that I didn’t realise just how quickly the pages were turning and before I knew what was happening I had finished the book, which I was so disappointed about. I was so gripped by the story that I just wanted the book to continue. Reading ‘Murder In The Meadow’ was similar to riding on a rollercoaster ride with the occasional twist, turn and stomach churning moment. There were times where I dreaded having to turn the page because I genuinely feared what was going to happen next. There were also occasions where I began arguing with the various characters, as if they could hear me or see me. Before anybody jumps in, I know that the book is a work of fiction but if a book is really good, I find myself ‘living’ the story and I feel as if I am a silent bystander to all the action playing out around me.
In short, I absolutely, totally and utterly LOVED reading ‘Murder In The Meadow’ and I would recommend this book and the Hilary Greene series to anybody. When you pick up a book by Faith Martin, you are guaranteed a page turning and thrilling tale. I can’t wait to read what comes next from this hugely successful author, but in the meantime I intend to read the series in order so far and one after the other. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is an easy and well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I absolutely love the character of Detective Inspector Hillary Greene. She is a female police officer and is fast approaching middle age. She has been through some tough times, which in part is due to her criminal late husband, Ronnie Greene. He sounds as though he was a real nasty piece of work. Hilary didn’t realise quite how criminal her husband was until after he died. Not only that but Hilary was investigated after his death too as it was felt that she must have known some, if not all, of what he was up to. This must have been particularly humiliating for her. She has had to work hard to make people respect her again and she finally seems to have won their respect. Hilary didn’t know about what her husband was getting up to but she feels a sense of shame given that she didn’t know the extent of his criminality. DI Greene finally seems to be making a positive life for herself again although there has been & is the odd hiccup along the way. She is still seeing the bloke she was with, who works in the Vice Squad, although there are a few issues within the relationship. DI Greene also has an admirer/ stalker within the police force too. She has let him down gently but it appears that he is not going to take no for an answer. I was so hoping that Hilary would knee him or kick him in the balls. DI Greene gets on with most of her team. There is a new Detective Sergeant on the team, who seems unduly interested in DI Greene and her caseload. Hilary is not sure how far to trust this new DS and she is intrigued as to why the DS is so interested in her and her cases. The reasoning as to why is gradually explained through the book. The bane of DI Greene’s life is another person on her team- Detective Sergeant Frank Ross. He was her late husband’s best friend and he was in it up to his neck with him, although I don’t think that they managed to find any hard evidence to confront him with. I am not sure if Hilary Greene has elected to keep Ross on her team where she can keep an eye on him or whether or not her superiors have told her she is stuck with him. DS Frank Ross is a sexist, racist, homophobic, lazy, borderline alcoholic pig, who only turns up when he feels like it, he ‘conducts’ meetings in the local pub and he does the least amount of work necessary. He also has no respect for his superiors which grates on Hilary. I began to wonder which charm school Frank Ross had been to because it clearly hasn’t worked and he needs to claim a refund. I so wished I could have jumped into the pages of the book to knee him in the balls and slap him around the head with a wet flip flop for being such a creepy, old lech.
As with every other book by Faith Martin that I have read, I absolutely loved ‘Murder In The Meadow’. The story hit the ground running and maintained pace throughout. The writing style is such that you can’t fail to be drawn in from the first word on the first page and because you need to find out who did it and why, you just keep reading on and on. I became just as addicted to reading ‘Murder In the Meadow’ as I have done with each and every one of Faith’s books. I was so into the story that I didn’t realise just how quickly the pages were turning and before I knew what was happening I had finished the book, which I was so disappointed about. I was so gripped by the story that I just wanted the book to continue. Reading ‘Murder In The Meadow’ was similar to riding on a rollercoaster ride with the occasional twist, turn and stomach churning moment. There were times where I dreaded having to turn the page because I genuinely feared what was going to happen next. There were also occasions where I began arguing with the various characters, as if they could hear me or see me. Before anybody jumps in, I know that the book is a work of fiction but if a book is really good, I find myself ‘living’ the story and I feel as if I am a silent bystander to all the action playing out around me.
In short, I absolutely, totally and utterly LOVED reading ‘Murder In The Meadow’ and I would recommend this book and the Hilary Greene series to anybody. When you pick up a book by Faith Martin, you are guaranteed a page turning and thrilling tale. I can’t wait to read what comes next from this hugely successful author, but in the meantime I intend to read the series in order so far and one after the other. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is an easy and well deserved 5* out of 5*.
March 17, 2019
Never a dull book with Faith!
Another murder, with an amazing amount of suspects to look at. The victim had a penchant for older rich women, thus the many suspects! Except he'd just started dating someone his on age, which may or may not have lasted. Wishful thinking is it might have, except her father was dead set against him, and actually couldn't stand him. So there's another suspect! Plus the husbands, they all couldn't be IMU e to their wives dalliances with the younger handsome artist. Oh, yes he was an artist. At least the women and himself thought so. He was a modern artist, with to be good at was really hard thing to do. He also had enemy's in the art community, the ones that were really good artist that he made fun of. So who did it, lots of its, but nothing that can be proven. The thing is, when reading about some of the suspects the reader finds some of them they like. Its really hard to want them caught when you like those suspects, except they are murderers. This particular victim was easy to dislike, so its hard to dislike the murderer, except. When you think of the people that are really hurt by the murder, the lives that are devastated by his death, his parents is this case. Then you see that the murderer has taken their son, and he was only twenty five, they'll never have grandchildren, or watch him as he gets older and hopefully wiser. They lose to them everything by a totally selfish act, then you can see where the murderer needs catching, the dummy!! Especially in this case, still, its sad all around d!
Another murder, with an amazing amount of suspects to look at. The victim had a penchant for older rich women, thus the many suspects! Except he'd just started dating someone his on age, which may or may not have lasted. Wishful thinking is it might have, except her father was dead set against him, and actually couldn't stand him. So there's another suspect! Plus the husbands, they all couldn't be IMU e to their wives dalliances with the younger handsome artist. Oh, yes he was an artist. At least the women and himself thought so. He was a modern artist, with to be good at was really hard thing to do. He also had enemy's in the art community, the ones that were really good artist that he made fun of. So who did it, lots of its, but nothing that can be proven. The thing is, when reading about some of the suspects the reader finds some of them they like. Its really hard to want them caught when you like those suspects, except they are murderers. This particular victim was easy to dislike, so its hard to dislike the murderer, except. When you think of the people that are really hurt by the murder, the lives that are devastated by his death, his parents is this case. Then you see that the murderer has taken their son, and he was only twenty five, they'll never have grandchildren, or watch him as he gets older and hopefully wiser. They lose to them everything by a totally selfish act, then you can see where the murderer needs catching, the dummy!! Especially in this case, still, its sad all around d!
May 16, 2023
This seventh episode in Faith Martin’s DI Hillary Greene series has everything a good cosy police procedural should have: an intriguing plot, a terrific no-nonsense lead detective, great supporting characters, a cosy village setting (in Oxfordshire), short punchy chapters and a good dose of humour.
The body of local would-be artist Wayne Sutton is found in a meadow with his head bashed in and a red paper heart laid on his chest. The handsome young man had a well-known reputation as a lady‘s man and Hillary soon has a list of wealthy middle aged women who take private ‘art lessons’ with him. Hillary suspects jealousy may play a part in Sutton’s death and she and her team concentrate on checking out his girlfriend and many other liasons.
Hillary finally has a new DS to add to her team, Gemma Fordham who seems smart and keen to advance, but there is something about her that Hillary doesn’t trust. Her previous new DC, Keith Barrington has also been doing well but Hillary can tell there is some personal problem distracting him. However, together her team diligently check out all the leads and leaving no stone unturned, but finding suspects and motives are frustratingly thin on the ground.
This is another gripping addition to the series where the characters are just as important as the plot and the author leaves us with enough intriguing questions to make us want to dive into the next book.
The body of local would-be artist Wayne Sutton is found in a meadow with his head bashed in and a red paper heart laid on his chest. The handsome young man had a well-known reputation as a lady‘s man and Hillary soon has a list of wealthy middle aged women who take private ‘art lessons’ with him. Hillary suspects jealousy may play a part in Sutton’s death and she and her team concentrate on checking out his girlfriend and many other liasons.
Hillary finally has a new DS to add to her team, Gemma Fordham who seems smart and keen to advance, but there is something about her that Hillary doesn’t trust. Her previous new DC, Keith Barrington has also been doing well but Hillary can tell there is some personal problem distracting him. However, together her team diligently check out all the leads and leaving no stone unturned, but finding suspects and motives are frustratingly thin on the ground.
This is another gripping addition to the series where the characters are just as important as the plot and the author leaves us with enough intriguing questions to make us want to dive into the next book.
January 10, 2018
This is now the seventh book in the DI Hillary Greene series and it is every bit as good as the previous six.
Hillarys team has a new addition in the shape of DS Gemma Fordham, who is efficient and smart but Hillary gets the feeling she is not to be trusted. How right she is!
Hillary and her team are called in to investigate the murder of a young man, Wayne Sutton, whose body was discovered by two young boys at the side of a stream with a red paper heart stuck to his chest.
Wayne they discover is an artist and a bit of a ladies man, having had affairs with numerous older women, both single and married. As long as they had money they were fair game.
Was he murdered by a jealous woman, her husband or is it something else entirely?
With plenty possible suspects to choose from the investigation gets underway.
As usual the characters are excellent and the plot flows, the personal back stories of the regulars expand.
Once again your left wanting to know more about Hillary and her team and the next interesting case that will come their way.
You could read this as a standalone but it really is worth reading the whole series in order.
Thanks to Joffe books for the opportunity to read this as an ARC, cant wait for the next instalment!
Hillarys team has a new addition in the shape of DS Gemma Fordham, who is efficient and smart but Hillary gets the feeling she is not to be trusted. How right she is!
Hillary and her team are called in to investigate the murder of a young man, Wayne Sutton, whose body was discovered by two young boys at the side of a stream with a red paper heart stuck to his chest.
Wayne they discover is an artist and a bit of a ladies man, having had affairs with numerous older women, both single and married. As long as they had money they were fair game.
Was he murdered by a jealous woman, her husband or is it something else entirely?
With plenty possible suspects to choose from the investigation gets underway.
As usual the characters are excellent and the plot flows, the personal back stories of the regulars expand.
Once again your left wanting to know more about Hillary and her team and the next interesting case that will come their way.
You could read this as a standalone but it really is worth reading the whole series in order.
Thanks to Joffe books for the opportunity to read this as an ARC, cant wait for the next instalment!
January 19, 2018
So this is the seventh in the Hillary Greene series. I have to admit apart from this one I’ve only read the first book in the series Murder on the Oxford Canal (you can read my review here.), I thought I would have missed a good chunk of the story line but I was pleasantly surprised that I hadn’t really and was able to pick up the story straight away.
The story opens with two young boys finding the body of known Lothario and artist Wayne Sutton in a meadow. There’s no shortage of suspects, including clingy lovers, rival artists and jealous husbands. To complicate matters Hillary has a new DS, Gemma Fordham, who on paper seems perfect but she can sense the DS has motive for moving to her team.
Hillary is still as feisty as ever. She’s still living on a canal boat but is now in a relationship with Mike Regis, a fellow officer in the Vice squad but her boss DCI Danvers also has an eye on her. Gemma Fordham makes an interesting addition to Hillary’s team, weirdly I like her even though she’s seems a bit dodgy.
This was a really enjoyable read. Well written, fast paced with lots of suspects and a good dollop of red herrings.
I am definitely going to have to pick up the books I have missed.
The story opens with two young boys finding the body of known Lothario and artist Wayne Sutton in a meadow. There’s no shortage of suspects, including clingy lovers, rival artists and jealous husbands. To complicate matters Hillary has a new DS, Gemma Fordham, who on paper seems perfect but she can sense the DS has motive for moving to her team.
Hillary is still as feisty as ever. She’s still living on a canal boat but is now in a relationship with Mike Regis, a fellow officer in the Vice squad but her boss DCI Danvers also has an eye on her. Gemma Fordham makes an interesting addition to Hillary’s team, weirdly I like her even though she’s seems a bit dodgy.
This was a really enjoyable read. Well written, fast paced with lots of suspects and a good dollop of red herrings.
I am definitely going to have to pick up the books I have missed.
January 7, 2018
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
Another excellent addition to the DI Hillary Greene series. Can't wait for the next one!
Two young boys find the body of a young artist. Handsome, with many middle-aged female admirers who rewarded him handsomely, he was the bane of many a husband. A painter who thought highly of his own art, but derided others', part-time gigolo and disliked (to put it mildly) by many, the list of suspects is a long one.
DI Hillary Greene is glad to have a new DS, Gemma; she needs the addition to her recently dwindled team. But there's something about the attractive blonde that doesn't sit well with her. She's obviously smart and experienced, but yet...what is it about her that makes Hillary uneasy?
The interviewing of an impressive list of possible suspects proves frustrating and it's quite a surprising ending when we finally find out whodunit.
This book can definitely be read as a standalone, but I would read the series in order so as to get the back story. For me, every new book is like meeting up with an old friend, the characters are a bit like family; even nasty, lazy old Frank! Highly recommended.
Another excellent addition to the DI Hillary Greene series. Can't wait for the next one!
Two young boys find the body of a young artist. Handsome, with many middle-aged female admirers who rewarded him handsomely, he was the bane of many a husband. A painter who thought highly of his own art, but derided others', part-time gigolo and disliked (to put it mildly) by many, the list of suspects is a long one.
DI Hillary Greene is glad to have a new DS, Gemma; she needs the addition to her recently dwindled team. But there's something about the attractive blonde that doesn't sit well with her. She's obviously smart and experienced, but yet...what is it about her that makes Hillary uneasy?
The interviewing of an impressive list of possible suspects proves frustrating and it's quite a surprising ending when we finally find out whodunit.
This book can definitely be read as a standalone, but I would read the series in order so as to get the back story. For me, every new book is like meeting up with an old friend, the characters are a bit like family; even nasty, lazy old Frank! Highly recommended.
January 12, 2018
DI Hillary Greene returns in this latest installment of Faith Martin's brilliant series. There is quite a bit of character shift in this book, which keeps the story fresh. We are introduced to Gemma Fordham, who clearly has a hidden agenda, which is slowly revealed throughout the book. Hillary Greene is her usual feisty, stubborn, likable self, and this book brings us back to her past problems - a neat little reminder. Murder in the meadow rockets along at a good pace, and slick writing from Faith means there are all manner of twists and turns, before the case is solved.
The victim, Wayne Sutton was discovered with a paper heart left on his body, and Greene's investigations lead to the familiar web of lies and intrigue that keep the reader guessing.
I would recommend reading the books in order, to appreciate the character development and little reveals that happen in each book. A feel-good murder mystery series with some great descriptive writing, slick character portrayal, and not too much gore to keep you up all night. Perfect accompaniment to a mug of hot chocolate on a cold evening.
The victim, Wayne Sutton was discovered with a paper heart left on his body, and Greene's investigations lead to the familiar web of lies and intrigue that keep the reader guessing.
I would recommend reading the books in order, to appreciate the character development and little reveals that happen in each book. A feel-good murder mystery series with some great descriptive writing, slick character portrayal, and not too much gore to keep you up all night. Perfect accompaniment to a mug of hot chocolate on a cold evening.
January 29, 2018
5 stars
The seventh story in the DI Hillary Greene series, this is the first story I have read. You definitely can jump into the middle of the series. The author does a great job of explaining the background of her characters so nothing feels lost if you haven’t read the earlier books.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters and what the author does with the story and side-stories of her characters! She does a great job of allowing the story develop the characters and to introduce the backgrounds of her characters. She doesn’t feel she needs to explain everything up front, but just takes the time and uses the telling of the story to slowly flush out the motivations and layers of her characters.
The mystery is well constructed as well. Leads you down a number of different paths with potential suspects – lots of twists and turns. This rates up there with some of the best British village mysteries. Reminds me of Caroline Graham’s series but with a female detective. That is high praise for me.
I can’t wait to go read some of the earlier books in this series!
Thank you NetGalley and publisher, Joffe Books, for the opportunity to read this ARC.
The seventh story in the DI Hillary Greene series, this is the first story I have read. You definitely can jump into the middle of the series. The author does a great job of explaining the background of her characters so nothing feels lost if you haven’t read the earlier books.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters and what the author does with the story and side-stories of her characters! She does a great job of allowing the story develop the characters and to introduce the backgrounds of her characters. She doesn’t feel she needs to explain everything up front, but just takes the time and uses the telling of the story to slowly flush out the motivations and layers of her characters.
The mystery is well constructed as well. Leads you down a number of different paths with potential suspects – lots of twists and turns. This rates up there with some of the best British village mysteries. Reminds me of Caroline Graham’s series but with a female detective. That is high praise for me.
I can’t wait to go read some of the earlier books in this series!
Thank you NetGalley and publisher, Joffe Books, for the opportunity to read this ARC.
October 30, 2022
Just when she thought her past was behind her...
The discovery of a body in a secluded meadow gives DI Hillary Green her seventh murder investigation. Her team is new, and in the case of DS Gemma Fordham, untested. Newly assigned to the station, DS Fordham appears to be efficient and pleasant, but as Hillary soon discovers, there is more to this young detective than it would appear. She has an agenda of her own that has nothing to do with the victim, but everything to do with Hillary's past.
As always, the plot is twisting with plenty of red herrings, plus the intrigues of Hillary's personal life. I always enjoy these books. Faith Martin knows how to weave a good yarn without getting too bogged down with the minutiae of police procedure. Her characters are well rounded and the writing itself easy.
For me though, it is the ongoing arc of Hillary's personal life that makes these books so interesting. Yes, I enjoy following the investigation and trying to spot the clues. These are, after all, crime mysteries. But I am now well and truly hooked by Hillary's ongoing personal troubles.
Another good yarn from Faith Martin. I am looking forward to the next.
The discovery of a body in a secluded meadow gives DI Hillary Green her seventh murder investigation. Her team is new, and in the case of DS Gemma Fordham, untested. Newly assigned to the station, DS Fordham appears to be efficient and pleasant, but as Hillary soon discovers, there is more to this young detective than it would appear. She has an agenda of her own that has nothing to do with the victim, but everything to do with Hillary's past.
As always, the plot is twisting with plenty of red herrings, plus the intrigues of Hillary's personal life. I always enjoy these books. Faith Martin knows how to weave a good yarn without getting too bogged down with the minutiae of police procedure. Her characters are well rounded and the writing itself easy.
For me though, it is the ongoing arc of Hillary's personal life that makes these books so interesting. Yes, I enjoy following the investigation and trying to spot the clues. These are, after all, crime mysteries. But I am now well and truly hooked by Hillary's ongoing personal troubles.
Another good yarn from Faith Martin. I am looking forward to the next.
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