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Kate Palmer #6
A Body at Lavender Cottage
Nurse Kate Palmer is Cornwall’s answer to Miss Marple! But when a body turns up in her own garden can Kate solve the crime? Or is the murder a bit too close to home?
Kate Palmer is stunned when she wakes up one morning to discover the body of a man in the beautiful garden of Lavender Cottage. She’s spent the last few years renovating her cozy, clifftop cottage with its gorgeous views of the sparkling Cornish sea. And a death right under her nose is more than a little unsettling…
When Woody Forrest, Kate’s new husband and the village’s retired detective inspector, takes a closer look he realises the victim is none other than Frank Ford – Woody’s old nemesis. Now, Frank is lying dead amongst the daisies… strangled with Woody’s blue police tie.
Kate is certain the man she loves is not a murderer and is determined to prove his innocence. But who would want to kill Frank and frame Woody? As Kate investigates, Frank’s family seem to be the obvious suspects. Could it be Jason Ford, the youngest son, who has an odd obsession with birdwatching? Sid Kinsella, the angry father-in-law? Or Sharon Mason, the troublesome daughter?
When another member of the Ford family bites the dust while Woody is tending his allotment, it’s clear the killer is determined to bury Woody’s reputation. But when a chance conversation on Bluebell Road provides Kate with a clue, she must find a woman named Rose, who could hold the answers Kate is looking for.
But Kate needs to dig up the truth – and fast! – before poor Woody is thrown behind bars. Can she solve the case and save her husband before it’s too late?
Kate Palmer is stunned when she wakes up one morning to discover the body of a man in the beautiful garden of Lavender Cottage. She’s spent the last few years renovating her cozy, clifftop cottage with its gorgeous views of the sparkling Cornish sea. And a death right under her nose is more than a little unsettling…
When Woody Forrest, Kate’s new husband and the village’s retired detective inspector, takes a closer look he realises the victim is none other than Frank Ford – Woody’s old nemesis. Now, Frank is lying dead amongst the daisies… strangled with Woody’s blue police tie.
Kate is certain the man she loves is not a murderer and is determined to prove his innocence. But who would want to kill Frank and frame Woody? As Kate investigates, Frank’s family seem to be the obvious suspects. Could it be Jason Ford, the youngest son, who has an odd obsession with birdwatching? Sid Kinsella, the angry father-in-law? Or Sharon Mason, the troublesome daughter?
When another member of the Ford family bites the dust while Woody is tending his allotment, it’s clear the killer is determined to bury Woody’s reputation. But when a chance conversation on Bluebell Road provides Kate with a clue, she must find a woman named Rose, who could hold the answers Kate is looking for.
But Kate needs to dig up the truth – and fast! – before poor Woody is thrown behind bars. Can she solve the case and save her husband before it’s too late?
- GenresCozy MysteryMysteryCozy
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 2, 2022
707 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Dee MacDonald
16 books267 followersThe Runaway Wife is Dee’s first (published) novel but in fact she wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 28, 2022
EXCERPT: She wondered why Barney was barking so manically at the back of the garage. Laying down her basket, Kate went to investigate, expecting to find a dead squirrel, rabbit or even a fox.
Instead, the first things she saw were two upturned, dirty trainer-clad feet, just visible around the edge of the garage. Her blood ran cold. Why would anyone be lying there unless they'd been very drunk and forgotten how to get home from the pub down the lane?
ABOUT 'A BODY AT LAVENDER COTTAGE': Kate Palmer is stunned when she wakes up one morning to discover the body of a man in the beautiful garden of Lavender Cottage. She’s spent the last few years renovating her cozy, clifftop cottage with its gorgeous views of the sparkling Cornish sea. And a death right under her nose is more than a little unsettling…
When Woody Forrest, Kate’s new husband and the village’s retired detective inspector, takes a closer look he realises the victim is none other than Frank Ford – Woody’s old nemesis. Now, Frank is lying dead amongst the daisies… strangled with Woody’s blue police tie.
Kate is certain the man she loves is not a murderer and is determined to prove his innocence. But who would want to kill Frank and frame Woody? As Kate investigates, Frank’s family seem to be the obvious suspects. Could it be Jason Ford, the youngest son, who has an odd obsession with birdwatching? Sid Kinsella, the angry father-in-law? Or Sharon Mason, the troublesome daughter?
When another member of the Ford family bites the dust while Woody is tending his allotment, it’s clear the killer is determined to bury Woody’s reputation. But when a chance conversation on Bluebell Road provides Kate with a clue, she must find a woman named Rose, who could hold the answers Kate is looking for.
But Kate needs to dig up the truth – and fast! – before poor Woody is thrown behind bars. Can she solve the case and save her husband before it’s too late?
MY THOUGHTS: I've loved this series with its brilliant cast of characters, and plots with plenty of red herrings. This case hits a little closer to home for Kate, as her beloved Woody has past history with the victim and is the main suspect. Perhaps that's why Kate does the absolutely stupid thing she does - putting her own life in danger - that completely took the shine off what otherwise was a great story.
Not only is there a murderer on the loose - Kate is having to deal with her sister's relationship difficulties, and the possibility that both her sister and a workmate are being targeted by conmen.
I love Kate's character. She's sensible, sharp and witty, and I love that she's a woman in her sixties; which made what she did seem all the more out of character. Angie, Kate's sister, is another great character. Angie and Kate are polar opposites, but are very loyal to one another.
This is probably my least favourite book in the series so far, but I still enjoyed this entertaining, quick, easy read although I didn't become as invested in it as I have in the previous books.
While it's not necessary to have read the previous books in the series as each one is an complete mystery, it does help to understand the relationships and dynamics between the core characters.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#ABodyatLavenderCottage #NetGalley
I: #deemacdonald @bookouture
T: @DMacDonaldAuth @Bookouture
#fivestarread #contemporaryfiction #crime #murdermystery #romance #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Dee MacDonald wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of A Body at Lavender Cottage for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Instead, the first things she saw were two upturned, dirty trainer-clad feet, just visible around the edge of the garage. Her blood ran cold. Why would anyone be lying there unless they'd been very drunk and forgotten how to get home from the pub down the lane?
ABOUT 'A BODY AT LAVENDER COTTAGE': Kate Palmer is stunned when she wakes up one morning to discover the body of a man in the beautiful garden of Lavender Cottage. She’s spent the last few years renovating her cozy, clifftop cottage with its gorgeous views of the sparkling Cornish sea. And a death right under her nose is more than a little unsettling…
When Woody Forrest, Kate’s new husband and the village’s retired detective inspector, takes a closer look he realises the victim is none other than Frank Ford – Woody’s old nemesis. Now, Frank is lying dead amongst the daisies… strangled with Woody’s blue police tie.
Kate is certain the man she loves is not a murderer and is determined to prove his innocence. But who would want to kill Frank and frame Woody? As Kate investigates, Frank’s family seem to be the obvious suspects. Could it be Jason Ford, the youngest son, who has an odd obsession with birdwatching? Sid Kinsella, the angry father-in-law? Or Sharon Mason, the troublesome daughter?
When another member of the Ford family bites the dust while Woody is tending his allotment, it’s clear the killer is determined to bury Woody’s reputation. But when a chance conversation on Bluebell Road provides Kate with a clue, she must find a woman named Rose, who could hold the answers Kate is looking for.
But Kate needs to dig up the truth – and fast! – before poor Woody is thrown behind bars. Can she solve the case and save her husband before it’s too late?
MY THOUGHTS: I've loved this series with its brilliant cast of characters, and plots with plenty of red herrings. This case hits a little closer to home for Kate, as her beloved Woody has past history with the victim and is the main suspect. Perhaps that's why Kate does the absolutely stupid thing she does - putting her own life in danger - that completely took the shine off what otherwise was a great story.
Not only is there a murderer on the loose - Kate is having to deal with her sister's relationship difficulties, and the possibility that both her sister and a workmate are being targeted by conmen.
I love Kate's character. She's sensible, sharp and witty, and I love that she's a woman in her sixties; which made what she did seem all the more out of character. Angie, Kate's sister, is another great character. Angie and Kate are polar opposites, but are very loyal to one another.
This is probably my least favourite book in the series so far, but I still enjoyed this entertaining, quick, easy read although I didn't become as invested in it as I have in the previous books.
While it's not necessary to have read the previous books in the series as each one is an complete mystery, it does help to understand the relationships and dynamics between the core characters.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#ABodyatLavenderCottage #NetGalley
I: #deemacdonald @bookouture
T: @DMacDonaldAuth @Bookouture
#fivestarread #contemporaryfiction #crime #murdermystery #romance #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Dee MacDonald wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of A Body at Lavender Cottage for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 8, 2022
"A Body at Lavender Cottage" is the 6th in the Kate Palmer Mysteries series. Kate Palmer is the main character married to Woody Forrest a retired detective inspector. They live in Lavender Cottage in Lower Tinworthy Cornwall.. Angie is Kate's sister who owns the Old Locker a bar and bistro with her boyfriend Fergal.
Barney the dog has been barking constantly and is at the door. She lets him out and goes to take down the laundry that has been on the line overnight. As she is taking the laundry down she notices that Woody's Metropolitan police necktie is missing. Barney is still barking behind the garage. Kate goes to see what the dog is barking about. Kate finds a man dead behind the garage with the tie around his neck. She goes and gets Woody who says that he knows the dead man named Frank Ford whom he arrested and sent to prison 25 years ago for killing his wife. He had written to Woody saying he was coming to Cornwall and would like to see him. They call Charlotte Martin a detective inspector at the Launceton police station. Why was he dead in their garden? Charlotte tells Woody that if it is Frank Ford it will not look good for him. Kate tells her about the letter sent to Woody. Woody believes that Frank did not kill his wife Pauline. Sid Kinsella, his father-in-law found her. Woody believes whomever killed Frank did it before putting the necktie around his neck to make it look like it was Woody. He is later summoned back to the police station for questioning and retained there over night.. The forensic report shows that Frank was not strangled by Woody's tie and was killed 10-12 hours before being put in their garden. He was released but told not to leave the village. Des Pardoe. owner of the bar The Gull told the police that both Kate and Woody were at his bar until 10;30, their alibi.
Kate goes to tell her sister about the morning event and finds a large cat named Maximus on the bar. He is Angie's new pet. She tells Angie that Woody is a suspect and that she will find out who killed Frank. Kate works as a nurse at Tinworthy Medical Centre Mavis Owen along with her husband runs Sunshine Caravan Park tells Kate that the Fords have three caravans parked there. The caravans consisted of Wayne and his father in one, Damian and his wife Jackie in the second one and Jason and his wife Megan and their father-in-law, Sid Kinsella in the third one. That morning Wayne Ford, Frank's oldest son, comes to the police station saying that his father is missing. They were at the park on their way to visit their sister Sharon Mason in Crackington. Kate goes to the park to deliver Mavis's prescription. When she leaves she finds Sid in her car. He seems confused but tells her he wants to go home and that Frank did not kill his daughter. Megan comes looking for him as he had disappeared from their caravan.
At lunchtime, Woody and Kate decide to go to see Des to thank him for going to the police. Steve, Des's new barman arrived at The Gull in July. He lives in his camper on Potter's Hill. Tells them that Charlotte had been there asking questions. While there Kate and Woody have a drink. Damian Ford approaches them and introduces himself and tells them he has no idea how his father got to their garden. He tells them that they are all suspects and have to stay at the park.
Kate decides to go visit Sharon. She tells Kate that Damion owes their father a lot of money for their house in Spain. Wayne didn't care about his father. Only interested in chasing women. Jason hated Frank for killing his mother. She didn't want anything to do with any of them.
When at The Old Locker Kate notices that her sister is all spruced up. Angie tells her that a man named Clint who is an actor is making a movie in Upper Tinworthy has been flirting with her. Kate asks Angie what about Fergal. Kate eventually meets Clint at the bar. and he is very handsome.
Sid is missing again. Kate helps looking for him. Kate and Woody decide to look at the cliffs behind their house. They take Barney who gets excited and they find Sid dead with his head smashed against the rock. Kate tells Chalotte about her meeting with the Ford's. That she could see only 3 going to Upper Tinsworthy. Where was the fourth person? Someone had killed Sid.
When at work Denise, the receptionist tells Kate and Sue, another nurse, that she has met someone. He is a writer named Lloyd Bannerman who is staying at the Wayfarer Guest House writing a book. Her description of him sounds like Clint.
Father Dominic Monagham, an elderly priest comes to their house and wants to speak to Woody about Frank. He met Frank at prison. He had come to see how Frank was doing but one of his sons told him about Frank's death. He got to know Frank when he decided to become a catholic. Frank confessed that he did not kill his wife as one of his children did. Frank mentioned that Woody was a good cop and he never forgot him. Frank did not tell him which son it was. Told him that if anything happened to him he was to come to see Woody. Ad he was leaving he mentioned that Frank was planning to get married and maybe he told her., Sharon unexpectedly arrives at their house and asks to see where her father was found..
Kate while walking Barney she runs into Damian sitting outside of The Gull. They talk and then after he leaves Steve comes out and warns her to not trust the Fords. Later she wishes she had questioned him further as Steve was hit by a hit and run coming out of The Gull and died. Fergal was sleeping in his car and said a white car silently backing up into the lot. Kate told him to go and tell Char;lotte. Charlotte comes to the house and tells Woody and Kate that Damian and Jacqueline Ford tried to run. The police upon going over Steve's camper they find bundles of money stashed there. How did he have so much on his salary.
At work Denise tells Kate and Woody that she has decided to give Lloyd Bannerman money so he can open his own publishing house. Both of them try to dissuade her as she doesn't know him very well. Kate also hears that her sister, Angie is planning to expand her building with the help of Clint. who wants to invest in her bar. She is going to give him $10,000.00.
Kate decides to go to London to speak to the priest and to find out the name of Frank's fiancé. She goes and finds out her name is Rose Gerard. She goes and speaks to her and finds out the son who killed his mother was Wayne. She goes home with the info and tells Charlotte about the info but Charlotte does not believe her.
Cate and Angie go out to The Tinners for a girls night out. .Denise is to be there with Lloyd. When she arrives she goes to introduce him to Kate. This is a great scene when Angie realizes that he is Clint. She and Denise get into a cat fight. As he departs Kate calls out his name. and yells that he is a con man. She tells both of them that they were lucky they didn't give him any money. The next day both of them go to the police and report him as a con artist. Wayne is picked up and put in jail. Kate goes and tells Sharon and later Damian about Wayne being the one who killed their mother.
This is where the story builds up into an exciting ending with Megan coming to see Kate and drugging her and taking her to the camp. When Kate awakes she overhears Megan talking to Wayne. She hears her say that there are new passports under the name of Davidson and they are flying to Costa Rica. While talking to Kate Megan admits that she was the one who killed Frank, Sid and Steve. He was blackmailing her. She admits that she and Wayne are in love, When Wayne arrives he and Megan lock Kate in the caravan and set it on fire. Kate desperately tries go get out,
Later Kate hears voices and finds out that she is in a hospital. Woody is there. He tells her that Des was outside the Gull and sees a white van. He notifies the police. Kate tells Woody about Megan and Wayne having passports with new name and flying to Costa Rico. They were caught at Heathrow. Airport.
Kate is happy to be home and swears to herself she will no longer be a Miss Marble.
It was a fun book to read and quite entertaining.. You get to know all the characters that make up the town along with all the new characters that are added. I plan to read the first five books. I look forward to the next book with Kate and Woody and their next adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
Barney the dog has been barking constantly and is at the door. She lets him out and goes to take down the laundry that has been on the line overnight. As she is taking the laundry down she notices that Woody's Metropolitan police necktie is missing. Barney is still barking behind the garage. Kate goes to see what the dog is barking about. Kate finds a man dead behind the garage with the tie around his neck. She goes and gets Woody who says that he knows the dead man named Frank Ford whom he arrested and sent to prison 25 years ago for killing his wife. He had written to Woody saying he was coming to Cornwall and would like to see him. They call Charlotte Martin a detective inspector at the Launceton police station. Why was he dead in their garden? Charlotte tells Woody that if it is Frank Ford it will not look good for him. Kate tells her about the letter sent to Woody. Woody believes that Frank did not kill his wife Pauline. Sid Kinsella, his father-in-law found her. Woody believes whomever killed Frank did it before putting the necktie around his neck to make it look like it was Woody. He is later summoned back to the police station for questioning and retained there over night.. The forensic report shows that Frank was not strangled by Woody's tie and was killed 10-12 hours before being put in their garden. He was released but told not to leave the village. Des Pardoe. owner of the bar The Gull told the police that both Kate and Woody were at his bar until 10;30, their alibi.
Kate goes to tell her sister about the morning event and finds a large cat named Maximus on the bar. He is Angie's new pet. She tells Angie that Woody is a suspect and that she will find out who killed Frank. Kate works as a nurse at Tinworthy Medical Centre Mavis Owen along with her husband runs Sunshine Caravan Park tells Kate that the Fords have three caravans parked there. The caravans consisted of Wayne and his father in one, Damian and his wife Jackie in the second one and Jason and his wife Megan and their father-in-law, Sid Kinsella in the third one. That morning Wayne Ford, Frank's oldest son, comes to the police station saying that his father is missing. They were at the park on their way to visit their sister Sharon Mason in Crackington. Kate goes to the park to deliver Mavis's prescription. When she leaves she finds Sid in her car. He seems confused but tells her he wants to go home and that Frank did not kill his daughter. Megan comes looking for him as he had disappeared from their caravan.
At lunchtime, Woody and Kate decide to go to see Des to thank him for going to the police. Steve, Des's new barman arrived at The Gull in July. He lives in his camper on Potter's Hill. Tells them that Charlotte had been there asking questions. While there Kate and Woody have a drink. Damian Ford approaches them and introduces himself and tells them he has no idea how his father got to their garden. He tells them that they are all suspects and have to stay at the park.
Kate decides to go visit Sharon. She tells Kate that Damion owes their father a lot of money for their house in Spain. Wayne didn't care about his father. Only interested in chasing women. Jason hated Frank for killing his mother. She didn't want anything to do with any of them.
When at The Old Locker Kate notices that her sister is all spruced up. Angie tells her that a man named Clint who is an actor is making a movie in Upper Tinworthy has been flirting with her. Kate asks Angie what about Fergal. Kate eventually meets Clint at the bar. and he is very handsome.
Sid is missing again. Kate helps looking for him. Kate and Woody decide to look at the cliffs behind their house. They take Barney who gets excited and they find Sid dead with his head smashed against the rock. Kate tells Chalotte about her meeting with the Ford's. That she could see only 3 going to Upper Tinsworthy. Where was the fourth person? Someone had killed Sid.
When at work Denise, the receptionist tells Kate and Sue, another nurse, that she has met someone. He is a writer named Lloyd Bannerman who is staying at the Wayfarer Guest House writing a book. Her description of him sounds like Clint.
Father Dominic Monagham, an elderly priest comes to their house and wants to speak to Woody about Frank. He met Frank at prison. He had come to see how Frank was doing but one of his sons told him about Frank's death. He got to know Frank when he decided to become a catholic. Frank confessed that he did not kill his wife as one of his children did. Frank mentioned that Woody was a good cop and he never forgot him. Frank did not tell him which son it was. Told him that if anything happened to him he was to come to see Woody. Ad he was leaving he mentioned that Frank was planning to get married and maybe he told her., Sharon unexpectedly arrives at their house and asks to see where her father was found..
Kate while walking Barney she runs into Damian sitting outside of The Gull. They talk and then after he leaves Steve comes out and warns her to not trust the Fords. Later she wishes she had questioned him further as Steve was hit by a hit and run coming out of The Gull and died. Fergal was sleeping in his car and said a white car silently backing up into the lot. Kate told him to go and tell Char;lotte. Charlotte comes to the house and tells Woody and Kate that Damian and Jacqueline Ford tried to run. The police upon going over Steve's camper they find bundles of money stashed there. How did he have so much on his salary.
At work Denise tells Kate and Woody that she has decided to give Lloyd Bannerman money so he can open his own publishing house. Both of them try to dissuade her as she doesn't know him very well. Kate also hears that her sister, Angie is planning to expand her building with the help of Clint. who wants to invest in her bar. She is going to give him $10,000.00.
Kate decides to go to London to speak to the priest and to find out the name of Frank's fiancé. She goes and finds out her name is Rose Gerard. She goes and speaks to her and finds out the son who killed his mother was Wayne. She goes home with the info and tells Charlotte about the info but Charlotte does not believe her.
Cate and Angie go out to The Tinners for a girls night out. .Denise is to be there with Lloyd. When she arrives she goes to introduce him to Kate. This is a great scene when Angie realizes that he is Clint. She and Denise get into a cat fight. As he departs Kate calls out his name. and yells that he is a con man. She tells both of them that they were lucky they didn't give him any money. The next day both of them go to the police and report him as a con artist. Wayne is picked up and put in jail. Kate goes and tells Sharon and later Damian about Wayne being the one who killed their mother.
This is where the story builds up into an exciting ending with Megan coming to see Kate and drugging her and taking her to the camp. When Kate awakes she overhears Megan talking to Wayne. She hears her say that there are new passports under the name of Davidson and they are flying to Costa Rica. While talking to Kate Megan admits that she was the one who killed Frank, Sid and Steve. He was blackmailing her. She admits that she and Wayne are in love, When Wayne arrives he and Megan lock Kate in the caravan and set it on fire. Kate desperately tries go get out,
Later Kate hears voices and finds out that she is in a hospital. Woody is there. He tells her that Des was outside the Gull and sees a white van. He notifies the police. Kate tells Woody about Megan and Wayne having passports with new name and flying to Costa Rico. They were caught at Heathrow. Airport.
Kate is happy to be home and swears to herself she will no longer be a Miss Marble.
It was a fun book to read and quite entertaining.. You get to know all the characters that make up the town along with all the new characters that are added. I plan to read the first five books. I look forward to the next book with Kate and Woody and their next adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
October 9, 2022
One of my favourite series’ from a superb author so its fair to say I was expecting to love this book,and love it I did,Dee Macdonald knows exactly how to write about ‘older’ folk living their best lives and in this series it always involves solving a murder in the lovely village of Tinworthy in Cornwall…..Like meeting old friends now it was great to reacquaint with the characters and be back in village life,gossip,nosiness and find the local pubs/shops all reassuringly still there
In this book we have a dead body found in main characters Kate’s front garden,the repercussions of which start a whole chain of other killings,quite a lot for the village but nothing they haven’t dealt with before 😎
I could read this authors books day in,day out and can only recommend you try this book ( or indeed any of her wonderful books )
10/10
5 Stars
In this book we have a dead body found in main characters Kate’s front garden,the repercussions of which start a whole chain of other killings,quite a lot for the village but nothing they haven’t dealt with before 😎
I could read this authors books day in,day out and can only recommend you try this book ( or indeed any of her wonderful books )
10/10
5 Stars
November 10, 2022
“Nurse Kate Palmer is Cornwall’s answer to Miss Marple! But when a body turns up in her own garden can Kate solve the crime?”
..
I am still toying with the notion that Kate Palmer might in fact be an amalgamation of Agatha Christie’s inimitable Miss Marple and UK television’s Hetty Wainthropp, as there are distinct physical and personality traits of both those redoubtable ladies in her character makeup. However, I would really rather remember Kate Palmer as herself, a recently remarried, semi-retired district nurse, with the knack of always being in the right place at the wrong time, when somebody screams “murder”! Although perhaps intentionally, Kate decided not to take her husband’s name on marriage, well would you, when your surname is already a very fitting anagram of ‘Marple’.
We could really do with a new detective series on mainstream television and this series would definitely transition well between the written word and the small screen. Each book seems to ‘up the ante’ for Kate and now that her ex-detective husband, Woody Forrester, appears more than happy to have become her partner in more ways than one, their joint powers of detection surely know no bounds!
Kate had two separate investigations on her hands this time, one of which should in theory, have been much easier to solve than the other. But little did she think that the cases were linked in any way, which is why I was so pleased to consider myself to have been way ahead of her, as I thought I had this case all sewn up quite early on and I was simply waiting for Kate to ‘dot the i’s and cross the t’s’, so to speak. Well! How was I to know that there would be such a deviously fiendish twist in the tail so late in the day, meaning the endgame would play out quite differently to my predictions? But then I guess that’s why Kate is so good at what she does, whilst I am just an armchair critic.
Okay! so what’s this story all about…
..
Like any other self-respecting amateur sleuths, Kate and Woody have a four-legged friend who insists on being front and centre of any action, so it is springer spaniel Barney who instinctively knows that something is wrong around the place and when finally let outside to take the early morning air, sniffs out body #1. Kate is completely discombobulated by Barney’s discovery, as not only has she still not recovered from her last frightening brush with a dead body and a desperate killer, but she has only just finished trying to reassure Woody that she is going to hang up her sleuthing gloves for good and retire gracefully. Just to top it all off nicely, it seems by Woody’s emotional reaction that he knows the victim and to make matters even worse, the man has Woody’s old police tie, which was hung on the washing line, wrapped around his neck.
Charlotte Martin, the local DI is already fed up to the back teeth with what she sees as Kate’s meddling ways in police affairs, despite the fact that Kate has solved cases which her own professional force has failed to make headway with, but she feels she must put up with her for the sake of her relationship with Woody, who until recently was her peer in rank. For her part, Kate has always been slightly body image jealous of Charlotte and is concerned that Woody might be comparing the two of them when they are in a room together and finding her wanting. Understandably the atmosphere is more than a little tense when Charlotte comes over in person to oversee the investigation of the body and promptly makes Woody her number one suspect, which is red rag to a bull for Kate, who resolves to clear her husband’s name, even though he is specifically restricted from helping her.
The mystery man is identified as Frank Ford, a convicted murderer who has recently been released from prison and who has written to Woody asking if he might come down to Cornwall to chat with him. Woody was working with the Met in London at the time of the man’s arrest and trial and was never totally convinced by his confession to the murder. It might seem that perhaps Woody was right and now, having served his sentence, Frank wanted to reveal the true identity of the felon, although his motive at this late stage in the day, is unclear. It transpires that the entire Ford family, all of whom have felt the long arm of the law on more than one occasion, have massed at a local caravan park, apart from the daughter who married a Cornishman and already lives locally.
From Kate’s perspective, it seems an obvious assumption that someone in the family knows exactly what Frank wanted to discuss with Woody, so when she gets just a little too nosy and hears moments of lucid truth from a dementia sufferer, panic sets in for the perpetrator and soon a second body is found. Unfortunately, it is Kate and Woody who make this discovery too, which definitely doesn’t help Woody’s case at all, especially when Kate makes her regular mistake of confiding in her sister Angie, as this is akin to shouting it out from the rooftops to the entire world, thus unwittingly placing both Kate and Woody in even more danger. A surprise visit to Kate and Woody’s cottage, from a rather unconventional, London based Roman Catholic priest, throws Woody something of a lifeline, however as he has been expressly forbidden to leave the village, Kate must travel to the capitol alone to try and unravel the rather mixed messages the Father expressed. Back in Tinworthy and armed with a much clearer sense of Frank’s motives for wanting to make contact with Woody, Kate makes a rather reckless decision without first confiding in Woody, so by the time the joined-up truth about three unsolved murders and one miscarriage of justice is firmly placed on the police radar, it appears that time might have run out for Kate!
In a seemingly unrelated incident, two newcomers to the village give Kate cause for concern, although one of them meets an untimely end at the hands of a hit and run driver, before she can ascertain his reason for choosing to settle in this quiet neck of the woods, as he is a definite city dweller. The second is a rather suave, smooth-talking individual who seems to be taking advantage of susceptible females, including Kate’s sister Angie and Denise, one of her c0-workers at the surgery, and is busy trying to get them to part with their hard-earned cash to fund his many scam schemes. It isn’t until Kate works out the man’s true identity, that his link to the Ford family is established and she realises the extent of the danger Angie and Denise have unwittingly become embroiled in.
..
As an avid follower of this series, I feel as though I have got to know the resident characters of fictional Tinworthy quite well, so reading a new chapter about life (and death) in the village always feels like ‘going home’ to Cornwall, one of my most favourite parts of the country, even if there does seem to be a disproportionately high number of murders for such an intimate location. Although the featured village of Tinworthy is, as I noted, fictional, in this book author Dee MacDonald referenced some very real places nearby, which was great for a Cornish loving, map nerdy, armchair traveller like myself, as I was able to pinpoint the storyline location quite accurately, which is always very satisfying. Also, whilst the physical footprint of the story was confined to a relatively small geographic area, some excellent descriptive narrative and dialogue, made the overall reader experience immersive and interesting, as did Kate’s short but eventful trip to London.
Also, you don’t need to have read all the books from the beginning of the series to know your way around, because all the episodes work great as stand-alone stories, with author Dee MacDonald having perfected the technique of bringing any new readers up to date with necessary back-story details, in just a few cleverly placed sentences as a seamless part of the current storyline, all without ever making her regular followers feel short-changed, or appearing repetitive.
Despite the much slower pace of village life, the action actually moved along at quite a speed and there was never a dull moment in this well-structured, multi-layered and highly textured storyline, which was fluently written in short, easy to navigate chapters, keeping the pace of the story fluid and ever evolving. Like myself, Kate is also a great list maker, although hers do tend to concentrate on the identities of murder suspects, rather than my own work and shopping kind. This time that list is very complex and lengthy, and it seems as though as fast as one name is discarded or has a potential alibi, another immediately takes its place. There are always plenty of red herrings and twists in the tail of any case with which Kate is involved and this one proved to be particularly tricky, with the final act of a particularly ruthless and cold-blooded murderer, potentially silencing Kate forever.
Dee has created a multi-faceted, well drawn and defined cast of characters, who I could clearly visualise in my mind’s eye, especially now that after all this time, I am almost thinking of them as friends, rather than passing acquaintances. Kate and Woody are a down to earth couple, who you could always stop for a chat with and know they would have something interesting to say, so attracting murder suspects in the way they do actually seems quite out of character, although much of that is down to Kate’s rather nosy streak, which all we ladies have if the truth be told! As soon as you meet Kate’s elder sister Angie, the queen of gossip, and her garrulous often womanising partner, Irishman Fergal, you will see what I mean about them being memorable and always able to raise a smile or two from anyone who crosses their paths. They are either at each other’s throats or the life and soul of the party, there really is no middle ground with these two.
Together with the large local cast of extras, more like old acquaintances, such are the dynamics between them, who are all are authentically realistic and genuinely believable in the individual roles which have been created for them, I almost feel that I could knock on the door of any Tinworthy house or visit any of the businesses and receive a warm welcome, so long as Kate or Woody were with me to break the ice a little first and I came ready to share any snippets of information which might satisfy their curiosity and make me ‘one of them’. Each episode also generally features a couple of ‘outsiders’, who really don’t fit into village life at all and seldom tend to stick around, especially if they end up dead or in custody!
After her closest shave with death yet, Kate seems quite determined to give up all the ‘Miss Marple stuff’ for good and take up a new, more sedate hobby. I can only hope, that like so many times before, she has a complete change of heart when push comes to shove and the next murder investigation rears its ugly head, especially as it appears that the object of her body image jealousy, Charlotte Martin, has had enough of her stint as local DI and is ready to move on.
..
I am still toying with the notion that Kate Palmer might in fact be an amalgamation of Agatha Christie’s inimitable Miss Marple and UK television’s Hetty Wainthropp, as there are distinct physical and personality traits of both those redoubtable ladies in her character makeup. However, I would really rather remember Kate Palmer as herself, a recently remarried, semi-retired district nurse, with the knack of always being in the right place at the wrong time, when somebody screams “murder”! Although perhaps intentionally, Kate decided not to take her husband’s name on marriage, well would you, when your surname is already a very fitting anagram of ‘Marple’.
We could really do with a new detective series on mainstream television and this series would definitely transition well between the written word and the small screen. Each book seems to ‘up the ante’ for Kate and now that her ex-detective husband, Woody Forrester, appears more than happy to have become her partner in more ways than one, their joint powers of detection surely know no bounds!
Kate had two separate investigations on her hands this time, one of which should in theory, have been much easier to solve than the other. But little did she think that the cases were linked in any way, which is why I was so pleased to consider myself to have been way ahead of her, as I thought I had this case all sewn up quite early on and I was simply waiting for Kate to ‘dot the i’s and cross the t’s’, so to speak. Well! How was I to know that there would be such a deviously fiendish twist in the tail so late in the day, meaning the endgame would play out quite differently to my predictions? But then I guess that’s why Kate is so good at what she does, whilst I am just an armchair critic.
Okay! so what’s this story all about…
..
Like any other self-respecting amateur sleuths, Kate and Woody have a four-legged friend who insists on being front and centre of any action, so it is springer spaniel Barney who instinctively knows that something is wrong around the place and when finally let outside to take the early morning air, sniffs out body #1. Kate is completely discombobulated by Barney’s discovery, as not only has she still not recovered from her last frightening brush with a dead body and a desperate killer, but she has only just finished trying to reassure Woody that she is going to hang up her sleuthing gloves for good and retire gracefully. Just to top it all off nicely, it seems by Woody’s emotional reaction that he knows the victim and to make matters even worse, the man has Woody’s old police tie, which was hung on the washing line, wrapped around his neck.
Charlotte Martin, the local DI is already fed up to the back teeth with what she sees as Kate’s meddling ways in police affairs, despite the fact that Kate has solved cases which her own professional force has failed to make headway with, but she feels she must put up with her for the sake of her relationship with Woody, who until recently was her peer in rank. For her part, Kate has always been slightly body image jealous of Charlotte and is concerned that Woody might be comparing the two of them when they are in a room together and finding her wanting. Understandably the atmosphere is more than a little tense when Charlotte comes over in person to oversee the investigation of the body and promptly makes Woody her number one suspect, which is red rag to a bull for Kate, who resolves to clear her husband’s name, even though he is specifically restricted from helping her.
The mystery man is identified as Frank Ford, a convicted murderer who has recently been released from prison and who has written to Woody asking if he might come down to Cornwall to chat with him. Woody was working with the Met in London at the time of the man’s arrest and trial and was never totally convinced by his confession to the murder. It might seem that perhaps Woody was right and now, having served his sentence, Frank wanted to reveal the true identity of the felon, although his motive at this late stage in the day, is unclear. It transpires that the entire Ford family, all of whom have felt the long arm of the law on more than one occasion, have massed at a local caravan park, apart from the daughter who married a Cornishman and already lives locally.
From Kate’s perspective, it seems an obvious assumption that someone in the family knows exactly what Frank wanted to discuss with Woody, so when she gets just a little too nosy and hears moments of lucid truth from a dementia sufferer, panic sets in for the perpetrator and soon a second body is found. Unfortunately, it is Kate and Woody who make this discovery too, which definitely doesn’t help Woody’s case at all, especially when Kate makes her regular mistake of confiding in her sister Angie, as this is akin to shouting it out from the rooftops to the entire world, thus unwittingly placing both Kate and Woody in even more danger. A surprise visit to Kate and Woody’s cottage, from a rather unconventional, London based Roman Catholic priest, throws Woody something of a lifeline, however as he has been expressly forbidden to leave the village, Kate must travel to the capitol alone to try and unravel the rather mixed messages the Father expressed. Back in Tinworthy and armed with a much clearer sense of Frank’s motives for wanting to make contact with Woody, Kate makes a rather reckless decision without first confiding in Woody, so by the time the joined-up truth about three unsolved murders and one miscarriage of justice is firmly placed on the police radar, it appears that time might have run out for Kate!
In a seemingly unrelated incident, two newcomers to the village give Kate cause for concern, although one of them meets an untimely end at the hands of a hit and run driver, before she can ascertain his reason for choosing to settle in this quiet neck of the woods, as he is a definite city dweller. The second is a rather suave, smooth-talking individual who seems to be taking advantage of susceptible females, including Kate’s sister Angie and Denise, one of her c0-workers at the surgery, and is busy trying to get them to part with their hard-earned cash to fund his many scam schemes. It isn’t until Kate works out the man’s true identity, that his link to the Ford family is established and she realises the extent of the danger Angie and Denise have unwittingly become embroiled in.
..
As an avid follower of this series, I feel as though I have got to know the resident characters of fictional Tinworthy quite well, so reading a new chapter about life (and death) in the village always feels like ‘going home’ to Cornwall, one of my most favourite parts of the country, even if there does seem to be a disproportionately high number of murders for such an intimate location. Although the featured village of Tinworthy is, as I noted, fictional, in this book author Dee MacDonald referenced some very real places nearby, which was great for a Cornish loving, map nerdy, armchair traveller like myself, as I was able to pinpoint the storyline location quite accurately, which is always very satisfying. Also, whilst the physical footprint of the story was confined to a relatively small geographic area, some excellent descriptive narrative and dialogue, made the overall reader experience immersive and interesting, as did Kate’s short but eventful trip to London.
Also, you don’t need to have read all the books from the beginning of the series to know your way around, because all the episodes work great as stand-alone stories, with author Dee MacDonald having perfected the technique of bringing any new readers up to date with necessary back-story details, in just a few cleverly placed sentences as a seamless part of the current storyline, all without ever making her regular followers feel short-changed, or appearing repetitive.
Despite the much slower pace of village life, the action actually moved along at quite a speed and there was never a dull moment in this well-structured, multi-layered and highly textured storyline, which was fluently written in short, easy to navigate chapters, keeping the pace of the story fluid and ever evolving. Like myself, Kate is also a great list maker, although hers do tend to concentrate on the identities of murder suspects, rather than my own work and shopping kind. This time that list is very complex and lengthy, and it seems as though as fast as one name is discarded or has a potential alibi, another immediately takes its place. There are always plenty of red herrings and twists in the tail of any case with which Kate is involved and this one proved to be particularly tricky, with the final act of a particularly ruthless and cold-blooded murderer, potentially silencing Kate forever.
Dee has created a multi-faceted, well drawn and defined cast of characters, who I could clearly visualise in my mind’s eye, especially now that after all this time, I am almost thinking of them as friends, rather than passing acquaintances. Kate and Woody are a down to earth couple, who you could always stop for a chat with and know they would have something interesting to say, so attracting murder suspects in the way they do actually seems quite out of character, although much of that is down to Kate’s rather nosy streak, which all we ladies have if the truth be told! As soon as you meet Kate’s elder sister Angie, the queen of gossip, and her garrulous often womanising partner, Irishman Fergal, you will see what I mean about them being memorable and always able to raise a smile or two from anyone who crosses their paths. They are either at each other’s throats or the life and soul of the party, there really is no middle ground with these two.
Together with the large local cast of extras, more like old acquaintances, such are the dynamics between them, who are all are authentically realistic and genuinely believable in the individual roles which have been created for them, I almost feel that I could knock on the door of any Tinworthy house or visit any of the businesses and receive a warm welcome, so long as Kate or Woody were with me to break the ice a little first and I came ready to share any snippets of information which might satisfy their curiosity and make me ‘one of them’. Each episode also generally features a couple of ‘outsiders’, who really don’t fit into village life at all and seldom tend to stick around, especially if they end up dead or in custody!
After her closest shave with death yet, Kate seems quite determined to give up all the ‘Miss Marple stuff’ for good and take up a new, more sedate hobby. I can only hope, that like so many times before, she has a complete change of heart when push comes to shove and the next murder investigation rears its ugly head, especially as it appears that the object of her body image jealousy, Charlotte Martin, has had enough of her stint as local DI and is ready to move on.
October 4, 2022
Community nurse Kate Palmer loves her home in Lower Tinworthy, its views, its character, and its welcoming atmosphere. Since buying Lavender Cottage with sister Angie, she has found herself investigating murders which have impacted on their new lives in Cornwall much to her amazement. Kate now lives with new husband, ex-Met dectective Woody Forrest, and life is near perfect, or at least it was until she found a dead body in her garden!
Once again Kate has to put her investigator's hat on as the police point their spotlight on her family and try to find the killer of the recently released prisoner, who was someone familiar to her husband from his past. Their lives have been put on hold and Kate realises it's up to her to help work out whodunnit but with her sister bewitched by a new arrival in the village and a work colleague's love life as complicated as ever it's going to be hard to find time to do everything she needs to.
Book six in this lovely series sees things move very close to home and I loved it. The newlyweds are great main protagonists and sister Angie, who I wasn't sure of to start with, is now one of my favourite characters and was on top form this time around. I did work somethings out but nowhere near all of it which is just as I like it. With hints at changes to come I'm looking forward to reading more Kate Palmer mysteries very soon.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I really enjoyed this book as I have the whole series so far and recommend it to cozy fans everywhere.
Once again Kate has to put her investigator's hat on as the police point their spotlight on her family and try to find the killer of the recently released prisoner, who was someone familiar to her husband from his past. Their lives have been put on hold and Kate realises it's up to her to help work out whodunnit but with her sister bewitched by a new arrival in the village and a work colleague's love life as complicated as ever it's going to be hard to find time to do everything she needs to.
Book six in this lovely series sees things move very close to home and I loved it. The newlyweds are great main protagonists and sister Angie, who I wasn't sure of to start with, is now one of my favourite characters and was on top form this time around. I did work somethings out but nowhere near all of it which is just as I like it. With hints at changes to come I'm looking forward to reading more Kate Palmer mysteries very soon.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I really enjoyed this book as I have the whole series so far and recommend it to cozy fans everywhere.
November 9, 2022
Kate Palmer has proven more than effective when it came to solving murders. This time the murder victim was right in her own garden. Not only does Woody Forrest, former DI and Kate’s new husband, recognize the victim, something found on the body just might tie Woody to the murder. More than that, the victim was Frank Ford, someone from Woody’s past. As it turns out, Woody had received correspondence from Frank and Charlotte, the current detective inspector, is forced to view Woody as a suspect.
Bound and determined to prove Woody’s innocence, Kate must learn who Frank was and how he ended up dead in their garden. She starts asking about and suspicion quickly falls on Frank’s family. It seems clear that Frank had a problem with several members of his family, making it very likely that one of them was indeed the killer. However, there is soon another victim, and this points the attention back to Woody as the possible murderer. Working harder than ever, Kate is even more determined to find answers.
A Body at Lavender Cottage is the wonderful sixth installment in this delightful cozy mystery series. Kate Palmer’s age does not slow her down a bit, and she will definitely remind readers of Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher. When you factor in Kate’s sharp skills and the intriguing plot, one that took on a few surprise turns, it is easy to see why this book will appeal to many readers. Also, not only do we have Kate and Woody, we also have Angie, Kate’s sister. Her inclusion in these stories adds an extra layer of enjoyment. The conclusion was riveting and has me more than eager for the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/iXEmzCKZL_Y
Bound and determined to prove Woody’s innocence, Kate must learn who Frank was and how he ended up dead in their garden. She starts asking about and suspicion quickly falls on Frank’s family. It seems clear that Frank had a problem with several members of his family, making it very likely that one of them was indeed the killer. However, there is soon another victim, and this points the attention back to Woody as the possible murderer. Working harder than ever, Kate is even more determined to find answers.
A Body at Lavender Cottage is the wonderful sixth installment in this delightful cozy mystery series. Kate Palmer’s age does not slow her down a bit, and she will definitely remind readers of Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher. When you factor in Kate’s sharp skills and the intriguing plot, one that took on a few surprise turns, it is easy to see why this book will appeal to many readers. Also, not only do we have Kate and Woody, we also have Angie, Kate’s sister. Her inclusion in these stories adds an extra layer of enjoyment. The conclusion was riveting and has me more than eager for the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/iXEmzCKZL_Y
October 1, 2022
When Kate Palmer finds a body it turns out her husband’s rival is pushing up daisies in their garden. Kate knows her husband is no murderer, but a second murder that ties into Woody makes it clear someone is out to frame him for the murders. Now Kate has to hope she’s as good at digging up clues as she is her garden or her husband will be plowed under in no time!
I love British cozies and this series is a must read for all fans of them. This is the second book I have read by this author and the first four in this series are on my to be read list. Gosh, how I love being taken away to Cornwall for awhile as I read one of these books!
I love British cozies and this series is a must read for all fans of them. This is the second book I have read by this author and the first four in this series are on my to be read list. Gosh, how I love being taken away to Cornwall for awhile as I read one of these books!
November 8, 2022
This is the 6th instalment in the Kate Palmer Mystery series by Dee MacDonald and features experienced practice nurse Kate who relocated from West London to Cornwall along with her sister, Angie a few years ago. The sisters live in the picturesque village of Lower Tinworthy, Kate, in the lovely Lavender Cottage, with Angie at The Old Locker Bistro with her Irish beau, Fergal.
In this instalment, Kate wakes early one Sunday morning to fetch her husband's blue tie she washed the evening before from the washing line. She expects the garment to still be blowing about on the line but finds instead a man lying dead in a bed of nettles, wearing trainers and said navy tie.
Kate, sixty-one is questioned by Detective Inspector Charlotte Martin. Kate's husband, retired DI Woody Forrest, is arrested but there's no way intrepid Kate's prepared to let Woody do time for murdering the victim, Frank Ford.
This is a superb cosy mystery with plenty of substance but still maintaining that cosy edge, with an alluring locale. Kate is a caring character, and her love for sexagenarian Woody is charming to read about. Kate kept her own name on marriage. (who wouldn't if you're a sleuth and your name is an anagram of Marple?) The tale is a comfortably paced read with a hugely enjoyable plot, and the other characters are great too, including Angie who likes a tipple or two. It boasts a fair number of suspects with plausible motives, red herrings and disclosures. A quality, well-plotted cosy with stacks of riveting conversational dialogue and a fulfilling conclusion, A Body at Lavender Cottage is the perfect novel to curl up with on a dark autumn evening. A delightful read and very highly recommended I am agog to pick up book #7 in the delightful Kate (Marple) Palmer series.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this instalment, Kate wakes early one Sunday morning to fetch her husband's blue tie she washed the evening before from the washing line. She expects the garment to still be blowing about on the line but finds instead a man lying dead in a bed of nettles, wearing trainers and said navy tie.
Kate, sixty-one is questioned by Detective Inspector Charlotte Martin. Kate's husband, retired DI Woody Forrest, is arrested but there's no way intrepid Kate's prepared to let Woody do time for murdering the victim, Frank Ford.
This is a superb cosy mystery with plenty of substance but still maintaining that cosy edge, with an alluring locale. Kate is a caring character, and her love for sexagenarian Woody is charming to read about. Kate kept her own name on marriage. (who wouldn't if you're a sleuth and your name is an anagram of Marple?) The tale is a comfortably paced read with a hugely enjoyable plot, and the other characters are great too, including Angie who likes a tipple or two. It boasts a fair number of suspects with plausible motives, red herrings and disclosures. A quality, well-plotted cosy with stacks of riveting conversational dialogue and a fulfilling conclusion, A Body at Lavender Cottage is the perfect novel to curl up with on a dark autumn evening. A delightful read and very highly recommended I am agog to pick up book #7 in the delightful Kate (Marple) Palmer series.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 10, 2022
Nurse Kate Palmer is back and she is sleuthing like there is no tomorrow. 😊
Kate often stumbles upon dead bodies, but now it’s seems like they are delivered on her doorstep (well, her back garden to be more accurate but let’s not go nit picking 😉). It’s even more shocking when her husband, Woody, who is an ex police officer recognises the deceased. And it’s getting worse. It seems like they crossed swords in the past. Not everyone is as convinced that Woody is innocent except for Kate.
So Kate would not be Kate if she would not move heaven on earth in order to clear her husband’s and maybe her own name as soon as possible.
Woody, who is never a fan of his wife’s ‘hobby’ does not seem to have any problem with her diving into the case. It’s not as if he does not worry about her or does not think about her constantly, but he does not seem to mind as much now. Aren’t you happy now with a wife like Kate, Woody? You cannot really count on the police, can you. 😊
So Kate digs and Kate reveals, but the killer has no intention to go to jail any time soon. They have other plans. Will Kate be able to put a stop to that?
Sometimes people are dishonest, but they still can have their heart in the right place. Was it the right decision though? Maybe the culprit should not have come out scot free and than all this could have been avoided. On the other hand, us readers, would have missed out on this entertaining story.
As per usual, this is another great book in the cozy mystery genre and one I enjoyed very much. 5 stars
Thank you
Kate often stumbles upon dead bodies, but now it’s seems like they are delivered on her doorstep (well, her back garden to be more accurate but let’s not go nit picking 😉). It’s even more shocking when her husband, Woody, who is an ex police officer recognises the deceased. And it’s getting worse. It seems like they crossed swords in the past. Not everyone is as convinced that Woody is innocent except for Kate.
So Kate would not be Kate if she would not move heaven on earth in order to clear her husband’s and maybe her own name as soon as possible.
Woody, who is never a fan of his wife’s ‘hobby’ does not seem to have any problem with her diving into the case. It’s not as if he does not worry about her or does not think about her constantly, but he does not seem to mind as much now. Aren’t you happy now with a wife like Kate, Woody? You cannot really count on the police, can you. 😊
So Kate digs and Kate reveals, but the killer has no intention to go to jail any time soon. They have other plans. Will Kate be able to put a stop to that?
Sometimes people are dishonest, but they still can have their heart in the right place. Was it the right decision though? Maybe the culprit should not have come out scot free and than all this could have been avoided. On the other hand, us readers, would have missed out on this entertaining story.
As per usual, this is another great book in the cozy mystery genre and one I enjoyed very much. 5 stars
Thank you
November 30, 2022
Pour yourself a cup of tea as you head to Lower Tinworthy where Cornwall's Miss Marple is sleuthing once again. In this 6th book in the Kate Palmer Mystery series things are up close and personal for Kate. Her new husband and retired detective inspector Woody is a suspect in the body found in the garden at Lavender Cottage.Woody knows the victim from his detective past.
Lots of cups of tea, several gin and tonics, and the daily dog walks along the cliffs of Cornwall are in between looking for the murderer and Kates suspect list is long!
After I've finished every book in there series I say "Wow, that was the best one" and it is no different now.as I think this one is the best yet! The mystery is solid any keeps you guessing!
Many thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book to NetGalley, Book out it's and the author.
Lots of cups of tea, several gin and tonics, and the daily dog walks along the cliffs of Cornwall are in between looking for the murderer and Kates suspect list is long!
After I've finished every book in there series I say "Wow, that was the best one" and it is no different now.as I think this one is the best yet! The mystery is solid any keeps you guessing!
Many thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book to NetGalley, Book out it's and the author.
January 13, 2023
Although I have not read any of the previous books in this series I was able to follow the characters and circumstances with ease. I thought the protagonist Kate takes matters into her own hands very quickly. The DI in charge of the case was rather too 'by-the-book' to be believable given that these are people who live and move around in the same village. There were also some elements which were rather obvious and I hate it when the answer is staring the protagonist in the face!
November 7, 2022
A Body at Lavender Cottage by DeeMacDonald is a Kate Palmer mystery. Kate has settled in nicely to her life with new husband, Woody Forrest, the retired Detective Inspector who had saved her more than once. He had bought out Kate’s sister and they lived in Lavender Cottage with their dog, Barney. Barney was acting up this morning. Truth be told he had been all night. Kate let him out and followed him to the garden shed, behind which she discovered a dead body, with Woody’s department necktie round his neck instead of hanging on the clothesline where it belonged. She didn’t know the dead man, but apparently Woody did. They called the police and Charlotte and several officers arrived quickly. Even at this time of day Charlotte looked amazing. Kate look dumpy. Despite the fact Charlotte knew Woody was innocent, they took him to the station. He was released shortly but he was their prime suspect. Turns out he had known him years ago in London where he had testified at the man’s trial for killing his wife. Woody still didn’t believe he’d done it, even with a confession.
Kate is a woman of a certain age but she has always been curious. That was not dissipating with age. It turned out the man, Frank Ford’s, daughter lived nearby and his three sons were here living in three caravans in a camp. Frank had wanted a family reunion. It was not to be. They were an odd lot. Kate, of course, made it her business to meet all of them. Two of them had wives. The eldest did not, and he was the most difficult to track down. Kate never wavered and two and two always came up four for her. She even traveled to London to meet the woman Frank planned to marry. They found out about her from a priest that came to visit them. Frank had told him to come see Woody if he died. They had met when the priest visited in prison. Woody spends much of his time trying to get Kate to not interfere. She had come to grief before, but even he knew it was hopeless. It is a good book. Solid mystery. Excellent characters. A plot as convoluted as it needed to be. Love this series.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Body at Lavender Cottage by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts an opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre, #DeeMacDonald #ABodyAtLavenderCottage
Kate is a woman of a certain age but she has always been curious. That was not dissipating with age. It turned out the man, Frank Ford’s, daughter lived nearby and his three sons were here living in three caravans in a camp. Frank had wanted a family reunion. It was not to be. They were an odd lot. Kate, of course, made it her business to meet all of them. Two of them had wives. The eldest did not, and he was the most difficult to track down. Kate never wavered and two and two always came up four for her. She even traveled to London to meet the woman Frank planned to marry. They found out about her from a priest that came to visit them. Frank had told him to come see Woody if he died. They had met when the priest visited in prison. Woody spends much of his time trying to get Kate to not interfere. She had come to grief before, but even he knew it was hopeless. It is a good book. Solid mystery. Excellent characters. A plot as convoluted as it needed to be. Love this series.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Body at Lavender Cottage by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts an opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre, #DeeMacDonald #ABodyAtLavenderCottage
November 4, 2022
4.5 Stars
Kate Palmer is stunned when she wakes up one morning to discover the body of a man in the beautiful garden of Lavender Cottage. When Woody Forrest, Kate’s new husband and the village’s retired detective inspector, takes a closer look he realises the victim is none other than Frank Ford – a former informer who was jailed for murdering his wife. Woody becomes the prime suspect & Kate is certain the man she loves is not a murderer and is determined to prove his innocence. As Kate investigates, Frank’s family seem to be the obvious suspects. When another member of the Ford family bites the dust while Woody is tending his allotment, it’s clear the killer is determined to bury Woody’s reputation.
This is the sixth outing for Kate & whilst it’s easily read as a stand alone book but I love how the characters have developed throughout the series especially Kate’s relationship with Woody & with her sister Angie. A well written well paced mystery that kept me engrossed, I did partially work out the solution but was still surprised at the ending. There aren't too many suspects but there are still some red herrings & twists & turns & of course there’s Kate who's like a dog with a bone & she’s very determined to clear Woody's name
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Kate Palmer is stunned when she wakes up one morning to discover the body of a man in the beautiful garden of Lavender Cottage. When Woody Forrest, Kate’s new husband and the village’s retired detective inspector, takes a closer look he realises the victim is none other than Frank Ford – a former informer who was jailed for murdering his wife. Woody becomes the prime suspect & Kate is certain the man she loves is not a murderer and is determined to prove his innocence. As Kate investigates, Frank’s family seem to be the obvious suspects. When another member of the Ford family bites the dust while Woody is tending his allotment, it’s clear the killer is determined to bury Woody’s reputation.
This is the sixth outing for Kate & whilst it’s easily read as a stand alone book but I love how the characters have developed throughout the series especially Kate’s relationship with Woody & with her sister Angie. A well written well paced mystery that kept me engrossed, I did partially work out the solution but was still surprised at the ending. There aren't too many suspects but there are still some red herrings & twists & turns & of course there’s Kate who's like a dog with a bone & she’s very determined to clear Woody's name
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 9, 2022
The setting is in Cornwall where a older coup[e are trying to enjoy their retirement. Their life should be easy with the slower pace of retirement but that doesn’t seem to be the case.
Each of the characters are delightful in their own way. There are lots of humorous moments throughout the story.
I have to say that I have not read the previous book in the series and I do feel that I should. Can this be read as a standalone? Yes, I believe it can. But, I really would like to know more of the backstory to the characters.
Overall, a well written British mystery that I enjoyed reading.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Each of the characters are delightful in their own way. There are lots of humorous moments throughout the story.
I have to say that I have not read the previous book in the series and I do feel that I should. Can this be read as a standalone? Yes, I believe it can. But, I really would like to know more of the backstory to the characters.
Overall, a well written British mystery that I enjoyed reading.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 23, 2022
You will like this book if: you love an English countryside cozy mystery.
Plot: Kate Palmer is known for being Cornwall’s Miss Marple, but will she solve the mystery of someone framing her retired detective husband for murder? When the body that turns up in their garden at Lavender Cottage is Frank, the man who served time for his wife’s murder that Woody believed was innocent, Kate realizes she may be in over her head for this mystery. Between Frank’s four adult children, their significant others, his father-in-law, and some other shady Cornwall residents as suspects who all have motive to kill Frank, will Kate safely get to the bottom of this crime? The plotting of this novel is complex and flawlessly executed.
Characters: Kate, Woody, Angie and some other core characters are adorable and textured. Kate is a perfectly reckless and driven main character. The characters are well developed, as characters within a series are, but I didn’t really see any character arcs. There are so many characters because in addition to the core series characters, the Ford family is large with Frank, his four adult children, their significant others, and a father-in-law/grandparent. I wish I had written down the cast of characters sooner.
Setting: Perfectly charming English countryside town. I felt like I was in each scene alongside the characters. I didn’t quite understand the town’s overall layout, but that wasn’t pertinent to the story.
Conflict/Resolution: The pacing of this mystery is spot-on. I was able to guess certain twists (a first!) and was so pleasantly surprised by others. The conclusion blew me away and wraps everything in a neat little bow, so gratifying! I audibly gasped more than once.
Writing: The dialogue is extremely realistic and well done, and there is a lot of it. The writing style makes it easy to devour this book. I can’t wait to read more of this series!
Overall/Other notes: Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Dee MacDonald for a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Plot: Kate Palmer is known for being Cornwall’s Miss Marple, but will she solve the mystery of someone framing her retired detective husband for murder? When the body that turns up in their garden at Lavender Cottage is Frank, the man who served time for his wife’s murder that Woody believed was innocent, Kate realizes she may be in over her head for this mystery. Between Frank’s four adult children, their significant others, his father-in-law, and some other shady Cornwall residents as suspects who all have motive to kill Frank, will Kate safely get to the bottom of this crime? The plotting of this novel is complex and flawlessly executed.
Characters: Kate, Woody, Angie and some other core characters are adorable and textured. Kate is a perfectly reckless and driven main character. The characters are well developed, as characters within a series are, but I didn’t really see any character arcs. There are so many characters because in addition to the core series characters, the Ford family is large with Frank, his four adult children, their significant others, and a father-in-law/grandparent. I wish I had written down the cast of characters sooner.
Setting: Perfectly charming English countryside town. I felt like I was in each scene alongside the characters. I didn’t quite understand the town’s overall layout, but that wasn’t pertinent to the story.
Conflict/Resolution: The pacing of this mystery is spot-on. I was able to guess certain twists (a first!) and was so pleasantly surprised by others. The conclusion blew me away and wraps everything in a neat little bow, so gratifying! I audibly gasped more than once.
Writing: The dialogue is extremely realistic and well done, and there is a lot of it. The writing style makes it easy to devour this book. I can’t wait to read more of this series!
Overall/Other notes: Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Dee MacDonald for a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 6, 2022
A body at Lavender Cottage finds our heroine and amateur sleuth, Kate Palmer, stumbling over another suspicious death. This time, not only is the body in her own back garden, but her husband, Woody, is in the frame. Of course, Kate can't do anything but try and work out who the killer is and why.
As with all good murder mysteries, there are plenty of twists and turns and while some of them are fairly easy to spot coming, there's still plenty here to keep you guessing. Kate doesn't stop at much to get to the bottom of things and while you might have to suspend your disbelief slightly, this is still a great read.
I hadn't completely figured out everything by the end, but I think that I was at least on the right track. If you enjoy classic murder mysteries, with lots of clues, a little misdirection and a body or two, then you certainly won't go wrong here.
I'm sure that this won't be the last adventure for Kate and I'm looking forward to revisiting soon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
As with all good murder mysteries, there are plenty of twists and turns and while some of them are fairly easy to spot coming, there's still plenty here to keep you guessing. Kate doesn't stop at much to get to the bottom of things and while you might have to suspend your disbelief slightly, this is still a great read.
I hadn't completely figured out everything by the end, but I think that I was at least on the right track. If you enjoy classic murder mysteries, with lots of clues, a little misdirection and a body or two, then you certainly won't go wrong here.
I'm sure that this won't be the last adventure for Kate and I'm looking forward to revisiting soon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
November 3, 2022
Another delightful installment of the Kate Palmer Mysteries! Such a joy to read as the story keeps you glued to the page. Here's hoping Kate doesn't retire anytime soon!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
October 31, 2022
The sixth cozy in this new series, and easily read as a standalone as this is the first one I have read. This novel was quirky, funny, easy and enjoyable read. The mystery had lots of twists and turns as expected and was full of witty dialogue which kept my interest and was well paced. I will be looking for more. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2022
This is my first book by this author. The mystery was ok and the ending not what I expected. I just wasn’t really able to get into the story.
Kate Palmer lives in Lavender Cottage with her husband Woody. He is a retired detective and Kate is a nurse.
Kate is shocked to discover a body outside of the cottage garden one morning. Even more upsetting is the fact that the victim has a tie to Kate’s husband from his days as a detective.
When the police suspect Woody could be involved in the crime, Kate is desperate to prove he is innocent. Is someone trying to frame Woody? Can Kate find out what really happened and who is responsible before anyone else dies?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kate Palmer lives in Lavender Cottage with her husband Woody. He is a retired detective and Kate is a nurse.
Kate is shocked to discover a body outside of the cottage garden one morning. Even more upsetting is the fact that the victim has a tie to Kate’s husband from his days as a detective.
When the police suspect Woody could be involved in the crime, Kate is desperate to prove he is innocent. Is someone trying to frame Woody? Can Kate find out what really happened and who is responsible before anyone else dies?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "A Body At Lavender Cottage" in exchange for my honest review.
This is book 6 in the wonderful Kate Palmer Mystery series. Kate is a practice nurse at the Tinworthy Medical Centre and fancies herself a crime solving Miss Marple in her spare time. It's not her fault that crimes fall at her doorstep. This time literally in her back garden at Lavender Cottage. Her husband retired DI Woody Forrest is a suspect in this case and that means that Kate doubles her efforts to solve the crime. Woody knew the victim from decades earlier and when he was accused or murdering his wife. Now the entire family - sons and their wives are in Cornwall to celebrate their father getting out of prison.
A few more bodies appear and a con-man tries to part Angie from her money - all keeping Kate quite busy. Kate as usual ends up in a tight situation and swears that she will give up sleuthing once and for all. Well, hopefully not as I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
This is book 6 in the wonderful Kate Palmer Mystery series. Kate is a practice nurse at the Tinworthy Medical Centre and fancies herself a crime solving Miss Marple in her spare time. It's not her fault that crimes fall at her doorstep. This time literally in her back garden at Lavender Cottage. Her husband retired DI Woody Forrest is a suspect in this case and that means that Kate doubles her efforts to solve the crime. Woody knew the victim from decades earlier and when he was accused or murdering his wife. Now the entire family - sons and their wives are in Cornwall to celebrate their father getting out of prison.
A few more bodies appear and a con-man tries to part Angie from her money - all keeping Kate quite busy. Kate as usual ends up in a tight situation and swears that she will give up sleuthing once and for all. Well, hopefully not as I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
October 21, 2022
A wonderful cozy mystery series. It's nice to read a book that features middle age characters finding fulfillment in their retirement years. The setting in Cornwall is icing on the cake. Although A Body at Lavender Cottage is the sixth book in this series it can easily be read as a stand alone.
October 13, 2022
Setting the Scene: Retired and settled in the Cotswolds, Kate and Woody are shocked to find the body of a recently released felon, one that Woody arrested more than 20 years ago in his life with the Metropolitan Police. The body was hidden behind their garage, and the "extremely glamorous detective inspector" considers Woody her number one suspect.
What I Thought: This is a comfortable British mystery with intelligent mature characters set in the Cotswold countryside. I have not read the series before, and since this is the 6th book in the series, I am not invested in the characters as I normally would be by the 6th outing. Even so, I enjoyed the storyline with its share of quirky characters, plethora of suspects, and humorous moments. I recommend this book to lovers of British mystery, but suggest beginning with the first book and reading each in order.
#ABodyatLavenderCottage #KatePalmer #DeeMacDonald #Britishcozymystery #cozymysteries #bookrecommendations #maturecharacters #strongfemalelead
What I Thought: This is a comfortable British mystery with intelligent mature characters set in the Cotswold countryside. I have not read the series before, and since this is the 6th book in the series, I am not invested in the characters as I normally would be by the 6th outing. Even so, I enjoyed the storyline with its share of quirky characters, plethora of suspects, and humorous moments. I recommend this book to lovers of British mystery, but suggest beginning with the first book and reading each in order.
#ABodyatLavenderCottage #KatePalmer #DeeMacDonald #Britishcozymystery #cozymysteries #bookrecommendations #maturecharacters #strongfemalelead
November 11, 2022
Nurse, Kate Palmer, discovers a body near the back of the property of Lavender Cottage. Her husband, Woodie Forest recognizes the man as a man he helped convict 20+ years earlier when he was a detective for the MET in London. He knew the man was going to be in the area after his release but had no idea why he had wanted to see him after all these years. The victim's family are also all in the area for a family reunion. They are a shifty lot who all seem to have had run-ins with the coppers over the years. As Woody knew the deceased, he is also considered a suspect but Kate knows her husband could never have done such a thing - so who did and why? The family are pretty much all suspects but additional deaths make the case even harder to solve. Can Kate sort out all the clues and lies to find a killer or will the killer get to her first?
My thoughts:
This is the 6th book in the Kate Palmer series by Dee MacDonald. This may be one of Kate's tougher cases as she tries to clear her husbands name. She is also a bit distracted with her sister Angie's infatuation with an actor named Clint and the medical receptionist Denise's attraction to a man named Lloyd. She senses something isn't quite right with either of the relationships but trying to convince the women to be more cautious is going over like a lead balloon! As always, Kate gets into a bit of hot water along the way as she sorts out all the info she and Woody have managed to gather. Admittedly, I had easily figured out the relationship issues and the guilty behind it. I also had a pretty good idea as to who had committed the murders but Ms. MacDonald through in some nice twists near the end to add even more depth to the plot! A good read in a fun English mystery series!
My thoughts:
This is the 6th book in the Kate Palmer series by Dee MacDonald. This may be one of Kate's tougher cases as she tries to clear her husbands name. She is also a bit distracted with her sister Angie's infatuation with an actor named Clint and the medical receptionist Denise's attraction to a man named Lloyd. She senses something isn't quite right with either of the relationships but trying to convince the women to be more cautious is going over like a lead balloon! As always, Kate gets into a bit of hot water along the way as she sorts out all the info she and Woody have managed to gather. Admittedly, I had easily figured out the relationship issues and the guilty behind it. I also had a pretty good idea as to who had committed the murders but Ms. MacDonald through in some nice twists near the end to add even more depth to the plot! A good read in a fun English mystery series!
November 25, 2022
The Kate Palmer mysteries are are on the one hand a kind of feel-good books, cosy because of their settings in the lovely (though fictional) rural setting of the Tinworthy's while on the other hands they are riddled with murders and mayhem.
This time Kate finds the first body quite literally on her doorstep, that is to say in the back of her own garden at Lavender cottage. Right from the start her husband Woody becomes the prime suspect because the victim had sent him a letter to announce his intention to visit him.
As always Kate cannot refrain from sticking her nose into the investigation, even though sometimes it might be prudent to hold back. Extra motivated because she wants to clear her husbands name she is starting one of her famous lists. Like in the other books I love the interactions between Kate, her sister Angie and her Irish Lover Fergal, and all the visitors that pass by under the most blatantly false pretexts at her at the medical clinic where she works. Off-course Kate solves the riddle of who murdered the victims but not before she gets into a tight spot herself, as always.
I deducted a star because I sometimes find that Kate is a bit to eager and stops to think about what is sensible, making her do things that she shouldn't, I think the book would be better if her mistakes were not so obvious.
I want to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review..
This time Kate finds the first body quite literally on her doorstep, that is to say in the back of her own garden at Lavender cottage. Right from the start her husband Woody becomes the prime suspect because the victim had sent him a letter to announce his intention to visit him.
As always Kate cannot refrain from sticking her nose into the investigation, even though sometimes it might be prudent to hold back. Extra motivated because she wants to clear her husbands name she is starting one of her famous lists. Like in the other books I love the interactions between Kate, her sister Angie and her Irish Lover Fergal, and all the visitors that pass by under the most blatantly false pretexts at her at the medical clinic where she works. Off-course Kate solves the riddle of who murdered the victims but not before she gets into a tight spot herself, as always.
I deducted a star because I sometimes find that Kate is a bit to eager and stops to think about what is sensible, making her do things that she shouldn't, I think the book would be better if her mistakes were not so obvious.
I want to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review..
November 5, 2022
I’ve been loving this series since I read the first book and always enjoyed Kate’s investigation and was glad to visit Lavender Cottage and the lovely surroundings
This means I always enjoyed the novels in this series and found them compelling even when I wasn’t the biggest fan.
This one is my favorite, gripping and entertaining, full of surprising twists and well thought characters.
Kate is personally involved as the body is found in her garden and Woody is amongst the suspects.
There’s something in the past that could be behind the murder, there’s a dysfunctional family always in the grey zone, and there’s a lot of twists.
I was surprised till the end and liked the solution. Kate is not being reckless and I loved how she’s fighting for Woody, searching to discover what happened and who did it.
The author did an excellent job in developing this tightly knitted plot, fast paced and never dragging.
I read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down.
Can’t wait to read the next book in this series, this one is strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this arc, all opinions are mine
This means I always enjoyed the novels in this series and found them compelling even when I wasn’t the biggest fan.
This one is my favorite, gripping and entertaining, full of surprising twists and well thought characters.
Kate is personally involved as the body is found in her garden and Woody is amongst the suspects.
There’s something in the past that could be behind the murder, there’s a dysfunctional family always in the grey zone, and there’s a lot of twists.
I was surprised till the end and liked the solution. Kate is not being reckless and I loved how she’s fighting for Woody, searching to discover what happened and who did it.
The author did an excellent job in developing this tightly knitted plot, fast paced and never dragging.
I read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down.
Can’t wait to read the next book in this series, this one is strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this arc, all opinions are mine
November 19, 2022
Kate and her dog Barney find a body in their garden one morning. Her husband Woody automatically becomes the prime suspect as he knew the victim Frank. This was a man who served 20 years in prison for murdering his wife and Woody was the cop who caught him. But Woody always thought Frank was innocent...
A Body At Lavender Cottage is the 6th book to feature nurse Kate Palmer and her husband, former detective Woody Forrest.
This is a personal case for Kate as she strives to clear her husband's name. The victim wanted to connect with Woody to discuss the murder of his wife and possibly reveal the secret of who really killed her. Frank's family travelled to Cornwall but one could be a killer whilst another becomes another victim...
Kate once more infuriates the local police, her husband and her sister as she forges ahead and sometimes puts herself in danger. She investigates the various family members and we see her trying to interview them subtly. There is little violence or graphic forensic information and the focus is on the questioning of the suspects.
A Body At Lavender Cottage is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery and a good addition to the series.
A Body At Lavender Cottage is the 6th book to feature nurse Kate Palmer and her husband, former detective Woody Forrest.
This is a personal case for Kate as she strives to clear her husband's name. The victim wanted to connect with Woody to discuss the murder of his wife and possibly reveal the secret of who really killed her. Frank's family travelled to Cornwall but one could be a killer whilst another becomes another victim...
Kate once more infuriates the local police, her husband and her sister as she forges ahead and sometimes puts herself in danger. She investigates the various family members and we see her trying to interview them subtly. There is little violence or graphic forensic information and the focus is on the questioning of the suspects.
A Body At Lavender Cottage is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery and a good addition to the series.
November 7, 2022
When Kate Palmer & her sister retired to Cornwall they were expecting a slower pace of life. However Kate seems to have a knack of finding herself involved in murder. It did lead her to meet & marry retired detective Woody Forrest so it wasn't all bad! Things struck a bit too close to home when she discovers a body in their garden with Woody's Met Police tie round his neck! The victim is a recently released prisoner who had wanted to speak to Woody. Kate is shocked when Detective Charlotte says that Woody is a suspect. This time things are personal & there is no way Kate is going to bow out from proving Woody's innocence no matter what anyone says!
This cosy mystery series is full of delightful characters & the location is so well described that the reader knows they would be able to find their way from drinking place to drinking place. I love this series & Dee Macdonald's style- it's great to see seniors living their best- if chaotic lives! Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book,
This cosy mystery series is full of delightful characters & the location is so well described that the reader knows they would be able to find their way from drinking place to drinking place. I love this series & Dee Macdonald's style- it's great to see seniors living their best- if chaotic lives! Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book,
November 8, 2022
Now Kate Palmer and Woody Forrest have wed
They're hoping not to find anyone else who is dead
But the shock is when Kate discovers a man
Whose body is in their garden - they need a new plan!
The victim seems to have been strangled by Woody's tie
Which had been left on the washing line to dry.
What makes it worse is Woody knows the victim, too,
But someone killed him in their garden - but who?
A story filled with family drama, mayhem and mischief
With Woody a suspect, finding the killer would be a relief!
Kate is determined to find the killer somehow
And to keep her husband with her now.
A fascinating story full of twists and turns
A dysfunctional family who honesty spurns
However, looking into just what they might do
Puts Kate into further danger and peril, too!
A great read filled with brilliant characters who
Keep you guessing, all the way through.
Another addition to this series that's great
So for even more I just can't wait!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
It's a brilliant cosy murder mystery and this is my honest review.
They're hoping not to find anyone else who is dead
But the shock is when Kate discovers a man
Whose body is in their garden - they need a new plan!
The victim seems to have been strangled by Woody's tie
Which had been left on the washing line to dry.
What makes it worse is Woody knows the victim, too,
But someone killed him in their garden - but who?
A story filled with family drama, mayhem and mischief
With Woody a suspect, finding the killer would be a relief!
Kate is determined to find the killer somehow
And to keep her husband with her now.
A fascinating story full of twists and turns
A dysfunctional family who honesty spurns
However, looking into just what they might do
Puts Kate into further danger and peril, too!
A great read filled with brilliant characters who
Keep you guessing, all the way through.
Another addition to this series that's great
So for even more I just can't wait!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
It's a brilliant cosy murder mystery and this is my honest review.
November 10, 2022
This is the sixth book in the cozy series "Kate Palmer:. I have not read this series before and was easily able to follow along and understand the charcters and premisis of the series. Thank you to Net Galley and to the publisher for the ARC. My review opinion is my own.
We are introduced to Nurse Kate Palmer the protagnist who lives in a charming cottage she has been renovating . Kate has a reputation for solving murders in her small village. She finds a body in her garden of someone who has a contentious history of being the nemisis of her husband Woody. The body is found with his tie around the neck. Kate is determined to solve this case and save her husband's reputation as the police inspector.
The sleuth was well defined. i enjoyed the process Kate goes through seeking clues and red herrings. The charcters and the village is a delight and charming throughout. I look forward to exploring this series in the future.
We are introduced to Nurse Kate Palmer the protagnist who lives in a charming cottage she has been renovating . Kate has a reputation for solving murders in her small village. She finds a body in her garden of someone who has a contentious history of being the nemisis of her husband Woody. The body is found with his tie around the neck. Kate is determined to solve this case and save her husband's reputation as the police inspector.
The sleuth was well defined. i enjoyed the process Kate goes through seeking clues and red herrings. The charcters and the village is a delight and charming throughout. I look forward to exploring this series in the future.
November 11, 2022
I thought this looked at sounded like my sort of book. I thought the cover design was eye-catching and pretty, and it looked like something that would get my attention if I saw it in a bookshop or library. I was pleased to be approved to read and review this.
It was a lovely modern cosy mystery set in Cornwall. I hadn't read any of the previous books, but I quickly warmed to Kate and Woody, and I felt that the author provided sufficient background information. It was an entertaining murder mystery with some humorous moments. From time to time, I was reminded slightly of M.C. Beaton's Agatha Raisin.
I would probably be interested in reading some more books from this series, and may recommend to my fellow book club members who enjoy cosy mysteries. Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for a free copy to review.
It was a lovely modern cosy mystery set in Cornwall. I hadn't read any of the previous books, but I quickly warmed to Kate and Woody, and I felt that the author provided sufficient background information. It was an entertaining murder mystery with some humorous moments. From time to time, I was reminded slightly of M.C. Beaton's Agatha Raisin.
I would probably be interested in reading some more books from this series, and may recommend to my fellow book club members who enjoy cosy mysteries. Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for a free copy to review.
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