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Fen Churche #1
A Dangerous Goodbye
1944. While war rages in Europe, Fenella Churche is doing her bit in the green fields of England. But when she finds a letter addressed to her on the scrubbed farmhouse table, she knows the news won’t be good. She hasn’t heard from her fiancé Arthur since he was posted to France on a dangerous undercover mission, and from his very first words she knows he may not be coming back.
I fear this may be my last letter to you, my darling, Arthur writes. Fen won’t give up hope and calls the war office, wanting to know if Arthur is still alive; they refuse to tell her anything. Searching for answers, she returns to his letter, but parts of it just don’t make sense. Through her tears Fen realises that her darling Arthur is giving her all the clues she needs to find out what happened to him.
1945. With the war behind them and nothing left for her in England, Fen travels to the deceptively pretty French village where she thinks Arthur might be, but there’s no sign of him. She’s close to giving up when she finds his silver cigarette case and another letter full of clues. But when the local priest is killed, it’s clear someone wants to keep wartime secrets buried. If Arthur, a brilliant spy, was outwitted and betrayed, can Fen stay alive long enough to find out what happened to the man she loves?
I fear this may be my last letter to you, my darling, Arthur writes. Fen won’t give up hope and calls the war office, wanting to know if Arthur is still alive; they refuse to tell her anything. Searching for answers, she returns to his letter, but parts of it just don’t make sense. Through her tears Fen realises that her darling Arthur is giving her all the clues she needs to find out what happened to him.
1945. With the war behind them and nothing left for her in England, Fen travels to the deceptively pretty French village where she thinks Arthur might be, but there’s no sign of him. She’s close to giving up when she finds his silver cigarette case and another letter full of clues. But when the local priest is killed, it’s clear someone wants to keep wartime secrets buried. If Arthur, a brilliant spy, was outwitted and betrayed, can Fen stay alive long enough to find out what happened to the man she loves?
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
November 19, 2020
It was 1944 and Fenella Churche was a Land Girl in England. Her fiancé, Arthur, was fighting over in France although she hadn’t heard from him since he’d been sent. When the letter on Mrs B’s table proved to be from Arthur, it was a goodbye of sorts – his premonition was that it would be his last letter to her. A year later with the war over, Fen decided to follow the clues in Arthur’s last letter to see if she could locate him, dead or alive. Both she and Arthur were cryptic crossword addicts and before he was posted, they would challenge one another to their clues – Fen was sure she could follow his trail.
When Fen arrived in the little village in France, and fortuitously found work at a nearby chateau, it wasn’t long before she was working in their vineyard, and in the kitchen with the family. Slowly clues appeared – Fen found Arthur’s silver cigarette case hidden among other items – she knew Arthur had been there, at the chateau. But when first one, then another person was murdered, it was obvious she was getting too close – what had Arthur been involved in that she wasn’t allowed to uncover?
A Dangerous Goodbye is the 1st in the Fen Churche Mystery series by Fliss Chester and I quite enjoyed it. Set mainly in post war England and France, Fen is a determined and dogged character who’ll stop at nothing to uncover how and why Arthur died. A Dangerous Goodbye houses a varied cast of characters who fit the story well. My first by this author, and definitely not my last. An historical mystery to recommend.
When Fen arrived in the little village in France, and fortuitously found work at a nearby chateau, it wasn’t long before she was working in their vineyard, and in the kitchen with the family. Slowly clues appeared – Fen found Arthur’s silver cigarette case hidden among other items – she knew Arthur had been there, at the chateau. But when first one, then another person was murdered, it was obvious she was getting too close – what had Arthur been involved in that she wasn’t allowed to uncover?
A Dangerous Goodbye is the 1st in the Fen Churche Mystery series by Fliss Chester and I quite enjoyed it. Set mainly in post war England and France, Fen is a determined and dogged character who’ll stop at nothing to uncover how and why Arthur died. A Dangerous Goodbye houses a varied cast of characters who fit the story well. My first by this author, and definitely not my last. An historical mystery to recommend.
August 24, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
Fen closed her eyes at the memory, and before long others nudged their way into her mind. His spectacles with their round, dark rims and his dark brown eyes behind them. The way his neck always smelt of Palmolive soap, no matter what time of day she embraced him. His insistence on always carrying a penknife, a handkerchief and a small ball of string ‘just in case’.
And then there was Edith from the East End of London, tall and awkward and with a fondness for anything fanciful. She would be a fairy or a princess if she could, but God had decided, in his great wisdom, that instead she should be five foot nine of clumsiness, and for this she found it hard to forgive him.
She was dark-haired and slim, her face pinched and sallow, as if she had spent the war drinking vinegar rather than fighting off Germans.
My Review:
I enjoyed this engaging tale from beginning to end, but I was flummoxed to see it was classified as Cozy Mystery, hmm. It was a well-researched historical with the well-held tension of a suspenseful novel as well as trickles of humor and amusing observations, three clever murders, betrayals, peril, sabotage, sleuthing, theft, several well-nuanced mysteries, oddly curious and fascinating characters, and a strong and smart female protagonist. Add that all together and this seemed like a full-fledged historical mystery to me, so I sought the counsel of the all-wise Mr. Google who led me to Cozy Mystery.com – and yes, there actually is such a thing, and found an article/post titled “What Makes a Cozy Just That?” and, well… A Dangerous Goodbye fits the definition… color me schooled!
The pleasantly evocative writing style and well-crafted storylines were expertly paced and held my attention throughout while keeping me tethered to my Kindle and taunting my inquisitive nature. I spun and cast aside numerous theories but this sly author tossed in more than a few red herrings among the clues, the minx. This was an excellent kick-off for a new series, and I hope I'm paying attention when the subsequent installments appear. I’m a fan and apparently I'm now an ardent cozy mystery reader – who would have ever suspected that?
Fen closed her eyes at the memory, and before long others nudged their way into her mind. His spectacles with their round, dark rims and his dark brown eyes behind them. The way his neck always smelt of Palmolive soap, no matter what time of day she embraced him. His insistence on always carrying a penknife, a handkerchief and a small ball of string ‘just in case’.
And then there was Edith from the East End of London, tall and awkward and with a fondness for anything fanciful. She would be a fairy or a princess if she could, but God had decided, in his great wisdom, that instead she should be five foot nine of clumsiness, and for this she found it hard to forgive him.
She was dark-haired and slim, her face pinched and sallow, as if she had spent the war drinking vinegar rather than fighting off Germans.
My Review:
I enjoyed this engaging tale from beginning to end, but I was flummoxed to see it was classified as Cozy Mystery, hmm. It was a well-researched historical with the well-held tension of a suspenseful novel as well as trickles of humor and amusing observations, three clever murders, betrayals, peril, sabotage, sleuthing, theft, several well-nuanced mysteries, oddly curious and fascinating characters, and a strong and smart female protagonist. Add that all together and this seemed like a full-fledged historical mystery to me, so I sought the counsel of the all-wise Mr. Google who led me to Cozy Mystery.com – and yes, there actually is such a thing, and found an article/post titled “What Makes a Cozy Just That?” and, well… A Dangerous Goodbye fits the definition… color me schooled!
The pleasantly evocative writing style and well-crafted storylines were expertly paced and held my attention throughout while keeping me tethered to my Kindle and taunting my inquisitive nature. I spun and cast aside numerous theories but this sly author tossed in more than a few red herrings among the clues, the minx. This was an excellent kick-off for a new series, and I hope I'm paying attention when the subsequent installments appear. I’m a fan and apparently I'm now an ardent cozy mystery reader – who would have ever suspected that?
December 15, 2021
In 1944, a letter is waiting for Fenella Churche on the farmhouse table, she knows its bad news and about her fiancé Arthur. Fen has been working as a land girl in West Sussex with her friends Kitty, Dilys, Edith and Mrs B. the housekeeper and she supports a devastated Fen.
Fen met Arthur Melville-Hare at The Spread Eagle, after a whirlwind wartime courtship and they get engaged. She assumes he was sent to France as an undercover agent, Arthur never spoke about his war work, the letter is his last goodbye and Fen’s sure it contains hidden clues.
In 1945, Fen boards a Red Cross ship bound for France, she wants to visit Morey-Fontane, a small village in Burgundy and Arthur's letter links him to the area. Fen speaks fluent French, she goes to a nearby chateau, the Bernard family are looking for workers at their winery and vineyard.
Pierre and Sophie Bernard own the winery, they have two young sons and Pierre’s father lives with them. Not long after Fen arrives, three people die, just a coincidence, and she doesn't think so? A priest is poisoned, another man dies of carbon dioxide inhalation and a man is stabbed. Fen believes they were all murdered, Arthur was defiantly a secret agent, was it to stop them from talking to her and she’s determined to uncover the truth.
A Dangerous Goodbye is the first book in the Fen Churche Mystery series by Fliss Chester, set during the Second World War, it’s a story about secret agents, hidden church artifacts, a petty thief, and an evil traitor and collaborator. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review, it kept me guessing until the end, four stars from me, and I can’t wait to read Night Train To Paris.
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Fen met Arthur Melville-Hare at The Spread Eagle, after a whirlwind wartime courtship and they get engaged. She assumes he was sent to France as an undercover agent, Arthur never spoke about his war work, the letter is his last goodbye and Fen’s sure it contains hidden clues.
In 1945, Fen boards a Red Cross ship bound for France, she wants to visit Morey-Fontane, a small village in Burgundy and Arthur's letter links him to the area. Fen speaks fluent French, she goes to a nearby chateau, the Bernard family are looking for workers at their winery and vineyard.
Pierre and Sophie Bernard own the winery, they have two young sons and Pierre’s father lives with them. Not long after Fen arrives, three people die, just a coincidence, and she doesn't think so? A priest is poisoned, another man dies of carbon dioxide inhalation and a man is stabbed. Fen believes they were all murdered, Arthur was defiantly a secret agent, was it to stop them from talking to her and she’s determined to uncover the truth.
A Dangerous Goodbye is the first book in the Fen Churche Mystery series by Fliss Chester, set during the Second World War, it’s a story about secret agents, hidden church artifacts, a petty thief, and an evil traitor and collaborator. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review, it kept me guessing until the end, four stars from me, and I can’t wait to read Night Train To Paris.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
September 18, 2020
This is the first book I’ve ever read by Fliss Chester and I really enjoyed it! The book is a mystery set in post WWII. Fen, the main character, receives a letter from Author, her fiance, telling her he won’t survive the war. Their letters always include codes and clues and this one is no different!
After the war, Fen travels to France to untangle the clues of Author’s death and those clues lead her to three murders!!
There was great character building throughout the book. I thought I had the murders figured out a few times, but I was wrong each time! I love a mystery that keeps you guessing and this one did exactly that!
I would recommend this book if you like, or want to try, a historical fiction crime mystery. It was an easy read and kept me guessing throughout!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my review.
#NetGalley #ADangerousGoodbye #Bookouture
After the war, Fen travels to France to untangle the clues of Author’s death and those clues lead her to three murders!!
There was great character building throughout the book. I thought I had the murders figured out a few times, but I was wrong each time! I love a mystery that keeps you guessing and this one did exactly that!
I would recommend this book if you like, or want to try, a historical fiction crime mystery. It was an easy read and kept me guessing throughout!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my review.
#NetGalley #ADangerousGoodbye #Bookouture
August 20, 2020
3.5stars rounded up to 4
Churche Mystery #1
Fenella Churche travels to France to see if she can find out what happened to her fiance. She heads to the chateau where the winery was that he had been based in. She finds work and she got help looking for Arthur from his old friend, James Lancaster. Three people are found dead soon after Fan's arrival.
This is the first book in a new series. When Fen recieved a letter telling her that her fiance had been killed, its filled with clues for her to try and figure out what had happened to him. The story doesn't really start until you're past the 40% mark and up until then, the pace is slow. The characters are both likeable and dislikeable. Theresa few twists as well as crossword clues to solve. The book has a satisfactory ending.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Fliss Chester for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Churche Mystery #1
Fenella Churche travels to France to see if she can find out what happened to her fiance. She heads to the chateau where the winery was that he had been based in. She finds work and she got help looking for Arthur from his old friend, James Lancaster. Three people are found dead soon after Fan's arrival.
This is the first book in a new series. When Fen recieved a letter telling her that her fiance had been killed, its filled with clues for her to try and figure out what had happened to him. The story doesn't really start until you're past the 40% mark and up until then, the pace is slow. The characters are both likeable and dislikeable. Theresa few twists as well as crossword clues to solve. The book has a satisfactory ending.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Fliss Chester for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2020
When the synopsis said A DANGEROUS GOODBYE would appeal to fans of J. Winspear, Charles Todd and Rhys Bowen, I was all in. They are among my fave HF authors, and now that I’ve read this first in a new series, Fliss Chester joins them.
This elegant debut is full of spies, codes, murder, and intrigue — all de rigueur for this genre.
But what makes this novel especially winning is the courageous protagonist, British Land Girl Fen Churche. She receives an “if you get this, I’m dead” letter from her fiancé Arthur, an Allied spy missing after being sent to France. Because they shared a love of codes, she searches for clues within the missive.
What she finds leads her to a quaint French village, where she discovers an item of Arthur’s and a new clue-filled letter. Murders ensue and it’s clear that someone doesn’t want war secrets spilled.
Why does the British War Office refuse to tell Fen anything? Is she a target now? Will she ever find out what happened to Arthur?
I read raptly to the end, unaware that a summer storm poured outside. Can’t wait ‘til Book Two!
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 20 Aug 2020
Thanks to the author, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#ADangerousGoodbye #NetGalley
This elegant debut is full of spies, codes, murder, and intrigue — all de rigueur for this genre.
But what makes this novel especially winning is the courageous protagonist, British Land Girl Fen Churche. She receives an “if you get this, I’m dead” letter from her fiancé Arthur, an Allied spy missing after being sent to France. Because they shared a love of codes, she searches for clues within the missive.
What she finds leads her to a quaint French village, where she discovers an item of Arthur’s and a new clue-filled letter. Murders ensue and it’s clear that someone doesn’t want war secrets spilled.
Why does the British War Office refuse to tell Fen anything? Is she a target now? Will she ever find out what happened to Arthur?
I read raptly to the end, unaware that a summer storm poured outside. Can’t wait ‘til Book Two!
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 20 Aug 2020
Thanks to the author, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#ADangerousGoodbye #NetGalley
August 12, 2020
I was intrigued by A Dangerous Goodbye: An absolutely gripping historical mystery’s cover and book description. Instead, Fen Churche’s journey to discover what happened to her fiancé during WWII was a peculiar story. The couple enjoyed crossword puzzles immensely and after he returned to the front lines in 1943, his letters contained various clues. By mid-1944, his missives stopped.
Little time was spent on Arthur’s and Fen’s actual relationship in 1943. I chalked it up to a brief romance that became an engagement. Because there was so little character build-up, I had a difficult time engaging with the MCs. After the war ended, Fen travelled to France. She thought she would find answers as to why Arthur was still missing.
The author wrote an interesting setting but I expected more heartbreak and misery. After all, the war just ended. And the French citizens seemed to accept Fen a little too easily. I missed some tension.
Fen was a likable protagonist. The mystery was cautious but reasonable. I knew one character had most of the answers but the author conveniently placed him elsewhere when Fen needed him the most. At this point, I found Fen slow on the uptake. I also had no problem determining who the ‘baddie’ was so I was somewhat disappointed by the end of the story.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookoutre Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
Little time was spent on Arthur’s and Fen’s actual relationship in 1943. I chalked it up to a brief romance that became an engagement. Because there was so little character build-up, I had a difficult time engaging with the MCs. After the war ended, Fen travelled to France. She thought she would find answers as to why Arthur was still missing.
The author wrote an interesting setting but I expected more heartbreak and misery. After all, the war just ended. And the French citizens seemed to accept Fen a little too easily. I missed some tension.
Fen was a likable protagonist. The mystery was cautious but reasonable. I knew one character had most of the answers but the author conveniently placed him elsewhere when Fen needed him the most. At this point, I found Fen slow on the uptake. I also had no problem determining who the ‘baddie’ was so I was somewhat disappointed by the end of the story.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookoutre Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
August 21, 2020
"If you are reading this, then in all likelihood I am dead."
These are the opening words to A DANGEROUS GOODBYE by Fliss Chester, the charming new historical mystery series featuring cryptic crossword cluer, Fenella Churche. An intriguing debut filled with spies, codes and murder with a touch of Miss Marple meets Father Brown.
West Sussex, 1944: Land girl Fen Churche (yes, like the station) receives a letter at her lodgings with those opening words written by her fiance Arthur, who has been stationed somewhere in France for the past year. Much of his letter would be redacted due to classification but Arthur is wise enough to pepper his correspondence with cryptic clues for Fen to figure out his location. So does this letter mean he is trouble?
Whatever the case may be, Fen knows she must crack the code to the clues he has given her and let them lead her. But what did it all mean?
France, 1945: With the war now over and the British War Office refusing to tell her anything, Fen has decoded enough of Arthur's last letter to lead her to a quaint French village and chateau with a vast vineyard. Although seemingly abandoned in somewhat of a ruined state, Fen manages to gain employment in the chateau's vineyard. Having been a land girl throughout the war, she was ripe for the task. She was immediately roomed with Estelle, a grumpy housekeeper and nursery maid, who didn't take kindly to sharing a room.
Fen meets the occupants of the chateau at dinner that night - patriarch Clement Bernard, son Pierre, wife Sophie and their two young children, as well as Hubert from the vineyard and fellow countryman, James Lancaster. She's already met Estelle and that reception was more than a little frosty. And she can't help but wonder what does this place and these people have to do with Arthur? Fen is just bursting to ask questions but knows she must bide her time.
The following evening the village hosts a fete in honour of their patron saints Gabriel and Michael. Everyone seems to come alive with feasting and dancing - even churlish Estelle and the grouchy Hubert. She briefly meets Father Marchand and has the feeling he has something to tell her, but the moment passes. The evening ends when there is a scream and Sophie is discovered to have fallen and twisted her ankle.
Breakfast is a subdued affair with a couple of hangovers and an injured hostess. But when Father Marchand joins them for breakfast and is coaxed into an almond croissant, no one expects him to fall down dead after just a couple of bites. It is quickly determined that he was poisoned and the French police arrive to arrest James. Fen does not believe James is a murderer and sets about to prove his innocence, with the mystery of what became of Arthur set aside. Soon after there is another death, however this one is to be deemed an accident...but Fen is not so sure. She does some stealthy investigating to prove otherwise. Until there is a third murder.
The murders are not as straightforward as police had at first thought with all clues leading back to the German occupation during the war and Arthur's presence, and subsequent disappearance, in the village. Fen believes that if she can decipher all of Arthur's clues, then she will be able to identify the murderer and hopefully discover his fate. Joining forces with James, the two set out to lay a trap that they hope will uncover the murderer.
This quiet quaint little French village has turned into an Agatha Christie novel with Fen a Miss Marple and Father Brown rolled into one! Although it could be forgiven for being mistaken for a quaint Midsomer village, if it wasn't for being in France.
Admittedly, A DANGEROUS GOODBYE was somewhat slow to start and although it was marginally interesting in her quest for answers into what became of Arthur, it wasn't until around 40% that the book became much more intriguing...beginning with the first murder. And despite all the murders it is still very much a lighthearted read that is quite enjoyable.
I had no trouble identifying the murderer but I don't think that was down to the author's lack of experience in this genre. A DANGEROUS GOODBYE is meant to be a lighthearted historical mystery with no devious depth to it that we would find in much darker reads. Although, having said that, Ms Christie herself was very adept at hiding the identity of her murderers rather cleverly though I still think the author did a tremendous job of masking the guilty whilst surreptitiously drip feeding us clues through Fen as to who it could be.
I look forward to seeing where Fen Churche takes us next and I do hope she brings James Lancaster along with her. I think the two make a good team.
Well plotted and easy to read, A DANGEROUS GOODBYE is a light an entertaining read that would appeal to fans of Rhys Bowen, Agatha Christie and Father Brown. I have no hesitation in recommending it.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Fliss Chester's debut mystery A DANGEROUS GOODBYE.
I would like to thank #FlissChester, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ADangeousGoodbye in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
These are the opening words to A DANGEROUS GOODBYE by Fliss Chester, the charming new historical mystery series featuring cryptic crossword cluer, Fenella Churche. An intriguing debut filled with spies, codes and murder with a touch of Miss Marple meets Father Brown.
West Sussex, 1944: Land girl Fen Churche (yes, like the station) receives a letter at her lodgings with those opening words written by her fiance Arthur, who has been stationed somewhere in France for the past year. Much of his letter would be redacted due to classification but Arthur is wise enough to pepper his correspondence with cryptic clues for Fen to figure out his location. So does this letter mean he is trouble?
Whatever the case may be, Fen knows she must crack the code to the clues he has given her and let them lead her. But what did it all mean?
France, 1945: With the war now over and the British War Office refusing to tell her anything, Fen has decoded enough of Arthur's last letter to lead her to a quaint French village and chateau with a vast vineyard. Although seemingly abandoned in somewhat of a ruined state, Fen manages to gain employment in the chateau's vineyard. Having been a land girl throughout the war, she was ripe for the task. She was immediately roomed with Estelle, a grumpy housekeeper and nursery maid, who didn't take kindly to sharing a room.
Fen meets the occupants of the chateau at dinner that night - patriarch Clement Bernard, son Pierre, wife Sophie and their two young children, as well as Hubert from the vineyard and fellow countryman, James Lancaster. She's already met Estelle and that reception was more than a little frosty. And she can't help but wonder what does this place and these people have to do with Arthur? Fen is just bursting to ask questions but knows she must bide her time.
The following evening the village hosts a fete in honour of their patron saints Gabriel and Michael. Everyone seems to come alive with feasting and dancing - even churlish Estelle and the grouchy Hubert. She briefly meets Father Marchand and has the feeling he has something to tell her, but the moment passes. The evening ends when there is a scream and Sophie is discovered to have fallen and twisted her ankle.
Breakfast is a subdued affair with a couple of hangovers and an injured hostess. But when Father Marchand joins them for breakfast and is coaxed into an almond croissant, no one expects him to fall down dead after just a couple of bites. It is quickly determined that he was poisoned and the French police arrive to arrest James. Fen does not believe James is a murderer and sets about to prove his innocence, with the mystery of what became of Arthur set aside. Soon after there is another death, however this one is to be deemed an accident...but Fen is not so sure. She does some stealthy investigating to prove otherwise. Until there is a third murder.
The murders are not as straightforward as police had at first thought with all clues leading back to the German occupation during the war and Arthur's presence, and subsequent disappearance, in the village. Fen believes that if she can decipher all of Arthur's clues, then she will be able to identify the murderer and hopefully discover his fate. Joining forces with James, the two set out to lay a trap that they hope will uncover the murderer.
This quiet quaint little French village has turned into an Agatha Christie novel with Fen a Miss Marple and Father Brown rolled into one! Although it could be forgiven for being mistaken for a quaint Midsomer village, if it wasn't for being in France.
Admittedly, A DANGEROUS GOODBYE was somewhat slow to start and although it was marginally interesting in her quest for answers into what became of Arthur, it wasn't until around 40% that the book became much more intriguing...beginning with the first murder. And despite all the murders it is still very much a lighthearted read that is quite enjoyable.
I had no trouble identifying the murderer but I don't think that was down to the author's lack of experience in this genre. A DANGEROUS GOODBYE is meant to be a lighthearted historical mystery with no devious depth to it that we would find in much darker reads. Although, having said that, Ms Christie herself was very adept at hiding the identity of her murderers rather cleverly though I still think the author did a tremendous job of masking the guilty whilst surreptitiously drip feeding us clues through Fen as to who it could be.
I look forward to seeing where Fen Churche takes us next and I do hope she brings James Lancaster along with her. I think the two make a good team.
Well plotted and easy to read, A DANGEROUS GOODBYE is a light an entertaining read that would appeal to fans of Rhys Bowen, Agatha Christie and Father Brown. I have no hesitation in recommending it.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Fliss Chester's debut mystery A DANGEROUS GOODBYE.
I would like to thank #FlissChester, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ADangeousGoodbye in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
July 29, 2020
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'A Dangerous Goodbye' by Fliss Chester
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 20th August 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. This is also the first book in the 'Fen Churche Mystery' series.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover, interesting title & intriguing blurb. It is also different to the typical crime genre I normally read so it looked like a good opportunity to expand my genres. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 29 chapters and an epilogue which are a nice length so that you can read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written from third person point of view and the protagonist is Fen (Fenella Church). It is set in England and mainly France.
I love the fact that the protagonist is female, being one myself, and that she has a strong personality and will not back down no matter what is thrown at her, including 3 murders!!!
The plot is intriguing and filled with mystery, spies, lies, romance, murder and more!!! It has plenty to keep the reader interested and has lots of little clues to help point to the killer. I didn't guess who the murderer was so bonus points there! Nothing worse than working out the killer less than half way through a book. Although the book is a crime one I thought it was still quite a light hearted read and I enjoyed the lovely descriptions and the feeling it gave me of being in France. The murders themselves were quite interesting and not straight forward death's and I love the cryptic clues left by Arthur.
The characters were all very interesting with heir own personalities, strengths and flaws and Estelle made me laugh on several occasions with he her strong personality and attitude.
Overall a very well written post war crime novel that was easy to read and kept me guessing throughout.
Genres covered include Historical, Romance and Mystery.
I would recommend this book to fans of the above genres and anyone looking for an interesting clue finding novel.
277 pages.
This book is 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Review for 'A Dangerous Goodbye' by Fliss Chester
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 20th August 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. This is also the first book in the 'Fen Churche Mystery' series.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover, interesting title & intriguing blurb. It is also different to the typical crime genre I normally read so it looked like a good opportunity to expand my genres. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 29 chapters and an epilogue which are a nice length so that you can read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written from third person point of view and the protagonist is Fen (Fenella Church). It is set in England and mainly France.
I love the fact that the protagonist is female, being one myself, and that she has a strong personality and will not back down no matter what is thrown at her, including 3 murders!!!
The plot is intriguing and filled with mystery, spies, lies, romance, murder and more!!! It has plenty to keep the reader interested and has lots of little clues to help point to the killer. I didn't guess who the murderer was so bonus points there! Nothing worse than working out the killer less than half way through a book. Although the book is a crime one I thought it was still quite a light hearted read and I enjoyed the lovely descriptions and the feeling it gave me of being in France. The murders themselves were quite interesting and not straight forward death's and I love the cryptic clues left by Arthur.
The characters were all very interesting with heir own personalities, strengths and flaws and Estelle made me laugh on several occasions with he her strong personality and attitude.
Overall a very well written post war crime novel that was easy to read and kept me guessing throughout.
Genres covered include Historical, Romance and Mystery.
I would recommend this book to fans of the above genres and anyone looking for an interesting clue finding novel.
277 pages.
This book is 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
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March 3, 2024
3.5 stars, rounded up
This was another KU book that had been on my to-read shelf for a while. Although I'm starting to burn out on WW2-era books, I chose this finish off my February reading.
I like Fen, the MC, and can appreciate the circumstances that led to her "quest" in this book. I also liked some of the people around her while she was trying to find answers, but some just rubbed me the wrong way. I couldn't figure out which were good guys trying to protect people and which were bad guys with destructive secrets, so I just let the story take me where the author wanted me to go. I was surprised by part of the solution, but had a strong suspicion about the rest.
I still haven't decided if I'll continue this series or just let it drop, but right now, I'm leaning toward the latter. I'm not sure where the story can go from where this book ended.
This was another KU book that had been on my to-read shelf for a while. Although I'm starting to burn out on WW2-era books, I chose this finish off my February reading.
I like Fen, the MC, and can appreciate the circumstances that led to her "quest" in this book. I also liked some of the people around her while she was trying to find answers, but some just rubbed me the wrong way. I couldn't figure out which were good guys trying to protect people and which were bad guys with destructive secrets, so I just let the story take me where the author wanted me to go. I was surprised by part of the solution, but had a strong suspicion about the rest.
I still haven't decided if I'll continue this series or just let it drop, but right now, I'm leaning toward the latter. I'm not sure where the story can go from where this book ended.
July 11, 2022
Started well but was a bit slow in the middle.
Read
October 17, 2022I’m fond of historical mysteries set just after the end of WWII, so when I saw a post for this one on Facebook, I thought I’d give it a try.
In 1944, Fen Churche receives a letter from her fiancé, telling her that he won’t survive the war. Like most of their communication, it involves a few codes and puzzles. When the war ends, Fen follows the clues to his last location, determined to find out what happened to him. Her journey leads her to a vineyard and chateau in France, but then there’s a murder, and Fen has to figure out who is behind it and how it relates to what happened during the war.
This one kept me suspecting several of the characters, but after the big reveal everything made sense (that’s the best kind of mystery, in my opinion). It’s a great choice for fans of historical mysteries, and it’s clean enough for teen readers on up.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Netgalley.
In 1944, Fen Churche receives a letter from her fiancé, telling her that he won’t survive the war. Like most of their communication, it involves a few codes and puzzles. When the war ends, Fen follows the clues to his last location, determined to find out what happened to him. Her journey leads her to a vineyard and chateau in France, but then there’s a murder, and Fen has to figure out who is behind it and how it relates to what happened during the war.
This one kept me suspecting several of the characters, but after the big reveal everything made sense (that’s the best kind of mystery, in my opinion). It’s a great choice for fans of historical mysteries, and it’s clean enough for teen readers on up.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Netgalley.
August 20, 2020
Cryptic crosswords helping a woman solve the mystery involving a series of murders, including her fiancé’s
A Dangerous Goodbye is a post-WWII story about a woman that went to France to follow the clues left in her fiancé’s last letter trying to figure out what happened to him.
Fen Churche was part of the Wrens (Women’s Royal Navy Service) during WWII. While in service, she met her fiancé, Arthur, an intelligent and sweet man she dreamt of marrying and starting a family with.
They both loved cryptic crosswords and spent lots of their time working on their own puzzle hoping to one day send it to the Daily Telegraph.
But Arthur was sent to France and disappeared. He sent a last letter to Fen with what seemed like an encrypted message. If Fen wanted to know what happened to him, she would have to go to France, to a place called Burgundy.
After the war, Fen decided to follow the clue and ended up in the Chateau Morey-Fontaine, where she meets a french family, a former English soldier, and some shady employees.
It was fascinating to see how Fen used her love for cryptic crosswords to try to find out what happened to Arthur and to solve a series of deaths that start occurring around the castle.
I have never heard about cryptic crosswords before. If you want to know more, here is the link to the term on Wikipedia.
Fen is a lovely heroine. Strong but vulnerable and not ashamed to shed a tear or ten. The side characters are very intriguing and clearly had something to hide.
The setting is a beautiful medieval castle in France and its adjacent vineyard. It sounded like a place I would love to visit.
The end was satisfying, and I was proud to be on the right track. Maybe I should give cryptic crosswords a try.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Dangerous Goodbye is a post-WWII story about a woman that went to France to follow the clues left in her fiancé’s last letter trying to figure out what happened to him.
Fen Churche was part of the Wrens (Women’s Royal Navy Service) during WWII. While in service, she met her fiancé, Arthur, an intelligent and sweet man she dreamt of marrying and starting a family with.
They both loved cryptic crosswords and spent lots of their time working on their own puzzle hoping to one day send it to the Daily Telegraph.
But Arthur was sent to France and disappeared. He sent a last letter to Fen with what seemed like an encrypted message. If Fen wanted to know what happened to him, she would have to go to France, to a place called Burgundy.
After the war, Fen decided to follow the clue and ended up in the Chateau Morey-Fontaine, where she meets a french family, a former English soldier, and some shady employees.
It was fascinating to see how Fen used her love for cryptic crosswords to try to find out what happened to Arthur and to solve a series of deaths that start occurring around the castle.
I have never heard about cryptic crosswords before. If you want to know more, here is the link to the term on Wikipedia.
Fen is a lovely heroine. Strong but vulnerable and not ashamed to shed a tear or ten. The side characters are very intriguing and clearly had something to hide.
The setting is a beautiful medieval castle in France and its adjacent vineyard. It sounded like a place I would love to visit.
The end was satisfying, and I was proud to be on the right track. Maybe I should give cryptic crosswords a try.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of A Dangerous Goodbye, the first novel to feature Fenella Churche, set in 1945.
In 1944 land girl Fen receives a letter from her fiancé, Arthur, saying that if she’s reading it he’s dead. The letter is full of clues so after the war ends in 1945 she takes off for a village in Burgundy to find out what happened to Arthur, only for the local priest to die in front of her, poisoned.
I enjoyed A Dangerous Goodbye which is a light, entertaining read with an interesting plot. It is told entirely from Fen’s point of view so the reader can get immersed and solve both Arthur’s clues and the murder alongside her. I didn’t find it hard to identify the killer and while the motive was slightly more elusive the broad outline was fairly obvious. This is, I think, due to the author’s lack of experience in the genre - she’s not yet devious enough. Having said that, the novel is well plotted and easy to read so guessing in advance is just a minor blip in a pleasurable few hours.
Historically the novel is set in a difficult period for the French with the joy of liberation set against financial hard times and a determined vengeance against collaborators. These are mentioned to give the reader a feel for the era but it is not a deep or meaningful dive into these strong feelings.
I like Fen Churche who is a resourceful woman with a strong sense of duty. She may be a bit stereotypical in her upper class attitudes but she has room to grow as the series progresses. I will take that journey with her.
A Dangerous Goodbye is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
In 1944 land girl Fen receives a letter from her fiancé, Arthur, saying that if she’s reading it he’s dead. The letter is full of clues so after the war ends in 1945 she takes off for a village in Burgundy to find out what happened to Arthur, only for the local priest to die in front of her, poisoned.
I enjoyed A Dangerous Goodbye which is a light, entertaining read with an interesting plot. It is told entirely from Fen’s point of view so the reader can get immersed and solve both Arthur’s clues and the murder alongside her. I didn’t find it hard to identify the killer and while the motive was slightly more elusive the broad outline was fairly obvious. This is, I think, due to the author’s lack of experience in the genre - she’s not yet devious enough. Having said that, the novel is well plotted and easy to read so guessing in advance is just a minor blip in a pleasurable few hours.
Historically the novel is set in a difficult period for the French with the joy of liberation set against financial hard times and a determined vengeance against collaborators. These are mentioned to give the reader a feel for the era but it is not a deep or meaningful dive into these strong feelings.
I like Fen Churche who is a resourceful woman with a strong sense of duty. She may be a bit stereotypical in her upper class attitudes but she has room to grow as the series progresses. I will take that journey with her.
A Dangerous Goodbye is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 22, 2020
In 1944, land girl Fenella or “Fen” Churche receives a cryptic letter from her fiancé Arthur, stationed in France. The letter may be his last and gives crossword-style clues about his assignment and possibly his role as a British spy supporting the French resistance. Once the war is over in 1945, Fen travels to the French village of Morey-Fontaine, noted for its wine yards to confirm Arthur’s death and understand the meaning of the clues. She gets a job at a rundown chateau where Arthur may have been stationed and then the murders begin.
A Dangerous Goodbye, the first book of what may become a Fen Churche Mystery series was an easy read mainly because the plot and characters were flat. The novel was rich in setting and description and Fen was likeable, but she was bereft of any credible emotion as were the other characters. Her fiancé may be dead, but she goes about her duties without a tear or thought until she receives confirmation. Her grief lasts briefly before it is forgotten. This extends to the other characters. Three murders occur days apart, but life continues with minimal if any grieving or other emotion from both family and friends. Fen’s interactions with the other characters are also stiff and awkward. She just has to ask about Arthur but when she does, a character is conveniently called away for no credible reason, or the opposite happens. Out of the blue, a character offers information.
A Dangerous Goodbye is a light cozy mystery. Whodunit, however, was too easy to figure out.
Reviewed for the Historical Novel Society
A Dangerous Goodbye, the first book of what may become a Fen Churche Mystery series was an easy read mainly because the plot and characters were flat. The novel was rich in setting and description and Fen was likeable, but she was bereft of any credible emotion as were the other characters. Her fiancé may be dead, but she goes about her duties without a tear or thought until she receives confirmation. Her grief lasts briefly before it is forgotten. This extends to the other characters. Three murders occur days apart, but life continues with minimal if any grieving or other emotion from both family and friends. Fen’s interactions with the other characters are also stiff and awkward. She just has to ask about Arthur but when she does, a character is conveniently called away for no credible reason, or the opposite happens. Out of the blue, a character offers information.
A Dangerous Goodbye is a light cozy mystery. Whodunit, however, was too easy to figure out.
Reviewed for the Historical Novel Society
October 31, 2020
Loved this!
A thoroughly enjoyable murder mystery set in the wine growing region Burgundy just after World War II.
Fen and her fiance are crossword lovers, so when she receives a cryptic last letter from Arthur telling her that in all likelihood he is dead, she is determined find the truth. Shortly after her arrival in France, she is faced with a murder.
Well written, with lots of twists and turns.
Highly recommended for fans of mystery and intrigue.
A thoroughly enjoyable murder mystery set in the wine growing region Burgundy just after World War II.
Fen and her fiance are crossword lovers, so when she receives a cryptic last letter from Arthur telling her that in all likelihood he is dead, she is determined find the truth. Shortly after her arrival in France, she is faced with a murder.
Well written, with lots of twists and turns.
Highly recommended for fans of mystery and intrigue.
September 7, 2020
This was a good historical mystery. The descriptions of the places were well detailed and was rich. Fen was an amazing character. The twists and turns really kept me at the edge. Overall, this was an enjoyable read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an opportunity to read this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an opportunity to read this book.
August 9, 2020
Cryptic Crosswords
Fen has been working as a Land Girl in England during WWII. Her fiancé Arthur is a soldier somewhere, she does not know where. Fen receives a letter from him in a cryptic form which helps her figure out he was in a small town in France. The letter also says that if she is reading it he is probably no longer alive.
Fen goes to France to find out if Arthur is still alive, or if not what happened to him. No sooner has she arrived in France, and started to work at a winery in the small town she thinks Arthur's letter has led her, than people start being murdered.
Thus the mystery begins and she must solve it before the killer decides to come after her.
This is a good mystery with lots of twists and turns. Will Fen solve the mystery? Will she find Arthur? You have to read the book to find out how it ends.
I enjoyed reading the book, and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Fliss Chester, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Fen has been working as a Land Girl in England during WWII. Her fiancé Arthur is a soldier somewhere, she does not know where. Fen receives a letter from him in a cryptic form which helps her figure out he was in a small town in France. The letter also says that if she is reading it he is probably no longer alive.
Fen goes to France to find out if Arthur is still alive, or if not what happened to him. No sooner has she arrived in France, and started to work at a winery in the small town she thinks Arthur's letter has led her, than people start being murdered.
Thus the mystery begins and she must solve it before the killer decides to come after her.
This is a good mystery with lots of twists and turns. Will Fen solve the mystery? Will she find Arthur? You have to read the book to find out how it ends.
I enjoyed reading the book, and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Fliss Chester, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2021
This was merely OK. Apparently, the female protagonist speaks almost perfect French, but the dialog seems rather laden with British slang and expressions -- what would be the French for "lumme"? (Seigneur aime moi?) I consider it to be a rather outdated, but then this is set at a time just after the end of WW2. In general, the main character would be speaking in French or English, depending on to whom she was talking, but that wasn't made clear in the book. I found the dialog rather artificial.
The denouement was a little anti-climactic. The villain was fairly predictable, just with details to fill in. Again, the situation wasn't terribly convincing.
Basically, Meh...
The denouement was a little anti-climactic. The villain was fairly predictable, just with details to fill in. Again, the situation wasn't terribly convincing.
Basically, Meh...
November 20, 2020
There was an intriguing start to the book and although it felt a bit disjointed I was looking forward to Fen’s investigation into her missing fiancé Arthur. However once Fen got to France this story was overtaken by a run-of-the-mill murder mystery. Unfortunately I didn’t really relate to any of these characters and to be honest I found it a distraction from finding out what happened to Arthur. The story improved towards the end and there was a satisfactory conclusion, but I think the author could have made more of Fen.
If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
August 10, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and Fliss Chester for providing me with a review copy.
If you are reading this, then in all likelihood I am dead.
This is how A Dangerous Goodbye begins. It is written in a letter to Fen Churche from her fiancé Arthur. It is 1944 and soldiers are sent all over Europe to fight in World War 2. Fen does not know where Arthur is stationed or even what his job is, she only knows he is in danger.
About a year later when the war has finally ended, Fen decides to set out on a quest to find Arthur, from whom she hasn't heard anymore after his alarming letter. Might he really be dead?
Arthur and Fen used to enjoy solving cryptic crosswords together. Their letters were always full of riddles and clues. This is also the case with Arthur's last letter, leading Fen to France.
In France she finds work and lodging at a local winery, not knowing she would soon be busying herself with solving three murders. Would solving these murders lead to Fen finding her fiancé?
This lovely mystery novel is from author Fliss Chester. As I have never before read anything by Chester, I could only compare the book to other writers. Visualise historical fiction author Kate Mosse meeting Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's character Sherlock Holmes and Kerry Greenwood's Miss Phryne Fisher. That might describe the atmosphere of this book. A romantic, historical story with a touch of strong femininity and some page-turning murder mysteries.
Right up until the end I had no clue who the murderer was. No, that is not true. Fen had lots of clues for us readers. I simply did not see what they meant and actually liked that. As I needed to know who the killer was, I just kept reading. House chores? No time for that!
I've enjoyed this book from the beginning until the end. It's the little details that made me smile. Fen saying 'Bonjour monsieur' every time she saw the winery's cat, speaking to him like he would solve all her problems. It gives the book a realistic vibe, as though this could really have happened.
As this is the first novel in a series, the Fen Churche Mystery series, I am most definitely looking forward to the next book!
If you are reading this, then in all likelihood I am dead.
This is how A Dangerous Goodbye begins. It is written in a letter to Fen Churche from her fiancé Arthur. It is 1944 and soldiers are sent all over Europe to fight in World War 2. Fen does not know where Arthur is stationed or even what his job is, she only knows he is in danger.
About a year later when the war has finally ended, Fen decides to set out on a quest to find Arthur, from whom she hasn't heard anymore after his alarming letter. Might he really be dead?
Arthur and Fen used to enjoy solving cryptic crosswords together. Their letters were always full of riddles and clues. This is also the case with Arthur's last letter, leading Fen to France.
In France she finds work and lodging at a local winery, not knowing she would soon be busying herself with solving three murders. Would solving these murders lead to Fen finding her fiancé?
This lovely mystery novel is from author Fliss Chester. As I have never before read anything by Chester, I could only compare the book to other writers. Visualise historical fiction author Kate Mosse meeting Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's character Sherlock Holmes and Kerry Greenwood's Miss Phryne Fisher. That might describe the atmosphere of this book. A romantic, historical story with a touch of strong femininity and some page-turning murder mysteries.
Right up until the end I had no clue who the murderer was. No, that is not true. Fen had lots of clues for us readers. I simply did not see what they meant and actually liked that. As I needed to know who the killer was, I just kept reading. House chores? No time for that!
I've enjoyed this book from the beginning until the end. It's the little details that made me smile. Fen saying 'Bonjour monsieur' every time she saw the winery's cat, speaking to him like he would solve all her problems. It gives the book a realistic vibe, as though this could really have happened.
As this is the first novel in a series, the Fen Churche Mystery series, I am most definitely looking forward to the next book!
July 1, 2022
Three and a half stars.
1944, just after the end of WW2 in Europe.
Fen Churche and her fiancé Arthur shared a love of cryptic crosswords and often amused themselves by creating their own cryptic clues. When Fen receives a cryptic letter from Arthur, telling her he is probably dead she deciphers the clues which lead her to a small village in France. While she tries to discover what happened to Arthur Fen finds work at the local chateau helping the family harvest the grapes for their wine. There is an Englishman there helping with the harvest, from things he's said, Fen suspects he knew Arthur and the two of them were spies helping the Resistance against the Germans. But before Fen can dig deeper the local village priest is poisoned and dies at their breakfast table. Then the chateau owner's only son is found asphyxiated in the winery. Can Fen use her deductive reasoning to work out who is committing these crimes?
I had mixed feelings about this book. Whilst I love a cryptic crossword, I found Fen's habit of creating a crossword from random clues/words rather irritating, as was her repeated homily about finding the down words if you are stuck on the across word. Also, the killer's motivation seemed a bit bizarre, to just suddenly go on a killing rampage seemed a bit odd. Also, I have to say I guessed the murderer quite early on - albeit I had no idea why.
I am in two minds whether to read the next book to see whether it settles down a bit or just stop here.
1944, just after the end of WW2 in Europe.
Fen Churche and her fiancé Arthur shared a love of cryptic crosswords and often amused themselves by creating their own cryptic clues. When Fen receives a cryptic letter from Arthur, telling her he is probably dead she deciphers the clues which lead her to a small village in France. While she tries to discover what happened to Arthur Fen finds work at the local chateau helping the family harvest the grapes for their wine. There is an Englishman there helping with the harvest, from things he's said, Fen suspects he knew Arthur and the two of them were spies helping the Resistance against the Germans. But before Fen can dig deeper the local village priest is poisoned and dies at their breakfast table. Then the chateau owner's only son is found asphyxiated in the winery. Can Fen use her deductive reasoning to work out who is committing these crimes?
I had mixed feelings about this book. Whilst I love a cryptic crossword, I found Fen's habit of creating a crossword from random clues/words rather irritating, as was her repeated homily about finding the down words if you are stuck on the across word. Also, the killer's motivation seemed a bit bizarre, to just suddenly go on a killing rampage seemed a bit odd. Also, I have to say I guessed the murderer quite early on - albeit I had no idea why.
I am in two minds whether to read the next book to see whether it settles down a bit or just stop here.
May 25, 2021
"A Dangerous Goodbye" is a mystery set in 1945 in France. This was a clue-based puzzle mystery. Fen asked good questions, was observant, and was able to link the clues together to solve the mysteries. Whodunit was guessable based on the clues. I was pretty sure of whodunit from shortly after the murder (probably because I read more murder mysteries than Fen apparently has). The main characters were interesting, engaging, and had realistic reactions to events. Historical details like turns of phrase or details about the French resistance were woven into the story and brought it alive in my imagination without slowing the pacing. There was no sex. There were only a few uses of bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting historical mystery.
September 19, 2020
I loved this atmospheric book. It’s a wonderful mix of drama, mystery and historical detail, with an appealing setting (a chateau and associated vineyard in post-war France). The story pulled me in and kept me gripped and the characters and their emotions were perfectly drawn. A story in which to lose yourself.
December 12, 2021
I'm afraid I found this book slog, the day to day descriptions of every footstep with clues from a version of crossword. How she was able to get across to France at the time was just buying a ticket, and the mystery just popped in and out in between. She seemed a bit naive for a 27 year old just having suffered the affects of WW2.
Read
January 29, 2022This was a really good start to a series. The main character is smart and resourceful. I’m looking forward to the rest of the Fen Churche books.
August 28, 2020
While A Dangerous Goodbye wasn't everything that was promised, it has potential as a series and fulfills all the requirements for a cozy mystery.
Fenella Churche is on her way to France, now that the war is finally over, in hopes of discovering what happened to her lost fiancee. Posing as a church historian, she finds herself working in a winery where he was posted in order to support herself while she sniffs out clues that he, himself, left via their hobby of crossword puzzles and word games.
Things soon take a turn for the worst when the local priest is killed and Fen's British comrade is arrested for the crime. Sensing that her fiancee's disappearance and recent events are linked, Fen realizes that she can trust no one as she searches for the truth.
Contrary to the blurb that sucked me in on NetGalley, I didn't think this book was as gripping, complex, or similar to prominent Cozy authors as it could have been. I would have liked to see a deeper dive into Fen's character, as well as more than tenuous connections between events. I think there was so much going on in this book that there just wasn't time for heavy explanations. I was promised a sister to Maisie Dobbs, and I didn't find Fen Churche as near as enthralling, emotional, or mystifying as Jacqueline Winspear's highly-acclaimed series.
However, I think this series has promise. I'd be interested to read a second novel to see where Fen goes next now that she's put her mind to rest where her fiancee is concerned. The premise of this book was very original, and it established Fen as a cozy sleuth that I think a lot of readers will enjoy.
Read my full review at samiamreadingandreviewing.wordpress.com.
Fenella Churche is on her way to France, now that the war is finally over, in hopes of discovering what happened to her lost fiancee. Posing as a church historian, she finds herself working in a winery where he was posted in order to support herself while she sniffs out clues that he, himself, left via their hobby of crossword puzzles and word games.
Things soon take a turn for the worst when the local priest is killed and Fen's British comrade is arrested for the crime. Sensing that her fiancee's disappearance and recent events are linked, Fen realizes that she can trust no one as she searches for the truth.
Contrary to the blurb that sucked me in on NetGalley, I didn't think this book was as gripping, complex, or similar to prominent Cozy authors as it could have been. I would have liked to see a deeper dive into Fen's character, as well as more than tenuous connections between events. I think there was so much going on in this book that there just wasn't time for heavy explanations. I was promised a sister to Maisie Dobbs, and I didn't find Fen Churche as near as enthralling, emotional, or mystifying as Jacqueline Winspear's highly-acclaimed series.
However, I think this series has promise. I'd be interested to read a second novel to see where Fen goes next now that she's put her mind to rest where her fiancee is concerned. The premise of this book was very original, and it established Fen as a cozy sleuth that I think a lot of readers will enjoy.
Read my full review at samiamreadingandreviewing.wordpress.com.
August 5, 2020
A Dangerous Goodbye tells the story of Fenella Churche, a land girl in England whose fiance went missing in France during the occupation. When Fen receives a letter from Arthur, her fiance, she discovers he has left her a series of hidden clues to help her find him. She knows his position in France was secretive, but she knows little else. Using the anagrams and hints he left her, she traces his path and searches for him.
This novel has an intriguing plotline and I loved the use of crosswords, anagrams, and clues that Fen followed to find Arthur. However, I found the language and sentences choppy and gramatically unappealing. A lot of the historical facts and characters are very caricatured and Fen doesn't have much of a personality or three dimensionality. It was a fun premise, but ultimately disappointing.
This novel has an intriguing plotline and I loved the use of crosswords, anagrams, and clues that Fen followed to find Arthur. However, I found the language and sentences choppy and gramatically unappealing. A lot of the historical facts and characters are very caricatured and Fen doesn't have much of a personality or three dimensionality. It was a fun premise, but ultimately disappointing.
May 30, 2022
Found it sooooo slow, i couldnt find the motivation to keep reading. I think i’ve been spoilt by so many other amazing historical fictions!
August 22, 2020
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!
I've been a fan of historical fiction for many years, so when I saw the blurb for A Dangerous Goodbye, my interest was instantly piqued. Although being set in a time period that I am familiar with, the premise of this novel was slightly different, being a mystery that needs solving. I really felt for the main character Fen; she has been left in the dark as to what has happened to her fiancé Arthur, with just a few clues to go off. Their relationship was greatly influenced by their love of doing crossword puzzles and they'd even create clues for each other to solve. This plays quite a big part at the beginning of the novel, as Arthur's clues to Fen were written in a crossword style. Fen follows the clues to a small village in France, which is struggling post-war, celebrating liberation but second guessing those who may have collaborated with the enemy. She joins an interesting group at a vineyard, which has some times to Arthur and his fate. Slowly she starts discovering small clues which tell her that she's looking in the right place, but soon other people start to die, suggesting that Fen might be getting a little too close to the truth.
Admittedly, the novel is a little slow to get started, but once the mystery started to unfold, I couldn't put the book down. I just needed to know what was going on! A Dangerous Goodbye is a great, entertaining mystery set in a complex historical setting. The plot was really good and easy to follow, not too complex, but I loved that Fen was trying to effectively solve two mysteries simultaneously. It was great fun trying to solve the crossword clues as she got them.
I think Fen is an interesting character to get to know. She is initially a little naive in terms of how the French feel following the country's liberation, but I feel like she definitely has some growth throughout the novel, which she could easily continue during the rest of the series. She's intelligent and I loved seeing how she unpicked the clues from Arthur and the greater mystery.
I gave A Dangerous Goodbye 4 out of 5 stars and would really recommend it to fans of historical fiction and mysteries - with spies, codes, murder and intrigue, what more could you want?! I loved trying to second guess what was happening, and being surprised by the twists and turns. A Dangerous Goodbye is the first book in the Fen Churche Mystery series. I'd be really interested in picking up the next book in the series, to see how it continues!
I've been a fan of historical fiction for many years, so when I saw the blurb for A Dangerous Goodbye, my interest was instantly piqued. Although being set in a time period that I am familiar with, the premise of this novel was slightly different, being a mystery that needs solving. I really felt for the main character Fen; she has been left in the dark as to what has happened to her fiancé Arthur, with just a few clues to go off. Their relationship was greatly influenced by their love of doing crossword puzzles and they'd even create clues for each other to solve. This plays quite a big part at the beginning of the novel, as Arthur's clues to Fen were written in a crossword style. Fen follows the clues to a small village in France, which is struggling post-war, celebrating liberation but second guessing those who may have collaborated with the enemy. She joins an interesting group at a vineyard, which has some times to Arthur and his fate. Slowly she starts discovering small clues which tell her that she's looking in the right place, but soon other people start to die, suggesting that Fen might be getting a little too close to the truth.
Admittedly, the novel is a little slow to get started, but once the mystery started to unfold, I couldn't put the book down. I just needed to know what was going on! A Dangerous Goodbye is a great, entertaining mystery set in a complex historical setting. The plot was really good and easy to follow, not too complex, but I loved that Fen was trying to effectively solve two mysteries simultaneously. It was great fun trying to solve the crossword clues as she got them.
I think Fen is an interesting character to get to know. She is initially a little naive in terms of how the French feel following the country's liberation, but I feel like she definitely has some growth throughout the novel, which she could easily continue during the rest of the series. She's intelligent and I loved seeing how she unpicked the clues from Arthur and the greater mystery.
I gave A Dangerous Goodbye 4 out of 5 stars and would really recommend it to fans of historical fiction and mysteries - with spies, codes, murder and intrigue, what more could you want?! I loved trying to second guess what was happening, and being surprised by the twists and turns. A Dangerous Goodbye is the first book in the Fen Churche Mystery series. I'd be really interested in picking up the next book in the series, to see how it continues!
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