Betty Rowlands has 27 audiobooks on Listento.it, narrated by 11 narrators, with an average listener rating of 4.5★ across 1,334 ratings. The most-rated is The Obesity Code.
The Obesity Code
Summary
Everything you believe about how to lose weight is wrong. Weight gain and obesity are driven by hormones - in everyone - and only by understanding the effects of insulin and insulin resistance can we achieve lasting weight loss. In this highly listenable and provocative book, Dr. Jason Fung sets out an original, robust theory of obesity that provides startling insights into proper nutrition. In addition to his five basic steps - a set of lifelong habits that will improve your health and control your insulin levels - Dr. Fung explains how to use intermittent fasting to break the cycle of insulin resistance and reach a healthy weight - for good. PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.
©2016 Jason Fung (P)2016 Audible, Inc.
Murder at Hawthorn Cottage
Summary
Meet Melissa: cat lover, caring mother… daring detective? Melissa Craig is absolutely delighted with her new life in an old crumbling cottage, spending her days pruning the primroses and getting to know Binkie, the ginger cat next door. She only wishes she had made the move to the countryside sooner. But when a knock at the door brings news of a shocking discovery, she suddenly finds herself thrown in to the middle of a baffling mystery: the bones of a young woman have been found in the woods just behind her new home. Perhaps the little village of Upper Bembury is not as idyllic as it first seemed? Strange phone calls in the night convince Melissa that the police are barking up completely the wrong tree, so she can’t resist doing a little digging of her own. From the bingo hall to the beauty salon and beyond, her search ruffles a few feathers and uncovers many of the village’s most scandalous secrets, but gets her no closer to finding the culprit. The discovery of a tatty old photograph in a drawer is the final piece of the puzzle she needs, but as a newcomer in this close-knit community, does Melissa have what it takes to get to the bottom of this extraordinary murder mystery alone? A joy to read! An absolutely unpausable whodunnit for fans of Agatha Christie, P.D. James and Faith Martin. This book was previously published as A Little Gentle Sleuthing.
©2018 Betty Rowlands (P)2018 Bookouture
Murder in the Morning
Summary
Cream teas, buttered crumpets, and a very curious crime… Melissa Craig is settling in nicely to a new teaching position in the quaint little village of Upper Bembury, getting to know her way around, drinking tea with the eccentric staff, even sewing the first seeds of romance.... But when she arrives one morning to find police outside her classroom, Melissa is shocked to hear that her beautiful colleague Angelica has been found dead in her home. As everyone in Angelica’s life comes under suspicion, Melissa makes it her mission to go in search of the truth, not least because she’s romantically entangled with none other than the police’s prime suspect. The discovery of a vandalized portrait of the murdered girl might be just the clue that Melissa needs to clear her lover’s name, but when a second body surfaces, she knows she needs to act quickly. Can Melissa uncover the ugly truth in this beautiful village before another innocent life is taken? Do you love murder mysteries by Agatha Christie, P.D. James, and Faith Martin? If so, you'll really enjoy listening to this puzzling and absolutely page-turning whodunit! This book was previously published as Finishing Touch.
©1992, 2018 Betty Rowlands (P)2018 Bookouture
Murder at the Manor Hotel: A completely unputdownable cozy mystery novel
Summary
As the stage is set for a local village play in a beautiful countryside manor, Melissa Craig plays the role of detective once again when one of the cast is mysteriously murdered.... Melissa is delighted when she’s asked to help put on a play at her favorite local Cotswolds hotel. There’s nothing she loves more than getting to know the cast, who are just as colorful behind the scenes as they are onstage. Rehearsals are running smoothly until the perpetually grumpy supporting actor is found spread-eagle at the bottom of a steep flight of stairs leading to a cellar. As Melissa tries in vain to save his life, she is sure she can hear voices nearby and suspects there is more to this accident than meets the eye. Why on earth was he trying to get down to the hotel’s private cellar? And why does the hotel manager seem so angry about it? When the hotel floor plans deliver some unexpected revelations, Melissa is convinced that she’s dealing with a murder. But when all of your suspects are actors, how can you tell the good liars from the bad? Can Melissa find the killer before the final curtain falls? If you’ve devoured books by Agatha Christie, Faith Martin, and P. D. James, you won’t be able to resist this pause-resisting murder mystery! This book was previously published as Exhaustive Enquiries. What readers are saying about Betty Rowlands: "An entertaining book...fluently written... In the same league as Agatha Christie." (B for Book Review) "Captivated...very well-written...a terrific beginning to the series...a very quick read. I thoroughly enjoyed the danger and surprising twists in this story, as well as the unexpected humour." (Robin Loves Reading) "Absolutely charming!... A good old-fashioned who-dunnit with just the right amount of mystery, intrigue and humour. Would definitely recommend!" (Stardust Book Reviews)
©2018 Betty Rowlands (P)2018 Bookouture
Death at Hazel House: An Utterly Addictive Cozy Murder Mystery
Summary
Meet Sukey Reynolds: proud mother, wonderful cook...and police photographer turned amateur detective. Years ago, Sukey was hoping to become a detective, but life took a different turn. Now she’s happy to be involved with the local police force, as long as she still gets to work the occasional murder case.... When Sukey arrives to photograph the body of Lorraine Chant, the beautiful wife of a wealthy businessman, she’s baffled. At first, it looks like a botched burglary, as the huge family safe has been left wide open and empty. But why does Lorraine’s rich husband claim nothing was taken? And what is he not telling the police? Deciding to do a little investigating of her own, things take a darker turn for Sukey when she is set upon by a shady figure. What do they think she knows? As Sukey finds herself in the firing line, can she expose the true killer before it’s too late? If you love murder mysteries by Agatha Christie, Faith Martin, or Joy Ellis, then this novel from the best-selling queen of cozy crime will have you hooked! This book was previously published as An Inconsiderate Death.
©1997, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Murder on the Clifftops
Summary
An utterly addictive cozy mystery novel French cheese, fine wine, and...a mystifying murder? A delightful afternoon stroll turns to disaster when the guests of an artists’ retreat in the French mountains spot the body of a man at the bottom of a cliff. Amongst them is Melissa Craig, who, binoculars at the ready, suddenly finds herself at the center of a very puzzling mystery. Was it an accident, or was he pushed? Her suspicions are confirmed when another body is found days later in almost the exact same spot. It can’t be a coincidence; someone in this idyllic French village is up to no good, and it’s up to her to find out who. Between the eccentric locals and mischievous guests, Melissa finds herself with no shortage of potential suspects: Was it the surly handyman with a dark past or perhaps, the short-sighted widow with an excellent golf swing? But the real question is: How close to the edge will Melissa have to tread to find the culprit? An absolutely gripping murder mystery you’ll feel compelled to listen to in one sitting. Perfect for anyone who loves Agatha Christie, P.D. James, or Faith Martin. This book was previously published as Over the Edge.
©2018 Betty Rowlands (P)2018 Bookouture
Murder at Larkfield Barn
Summary
Bright mornings and brisk walks.... Spring has arrived in the Cotswolds. But the atmosphere is positively wintery in Upper Benbury after a series of murders shake the close-knit community. Since her move to the country, Melissa Craig has become firmly established in village life. So, when one of the older residents fails to show up for a drinks party, Melissa goes to check on her. What she finds chills her to the bone: Her dear neighbor has been murdered, and the killer has painted a hideous smile onto her face.... Melissa soon realizes that the death in her village bears the same trademark as a series of recent murders in the Cotswolds. When will The Smiler strike again? With a dangerous killer on the loose, Melissa realizes she needs to solve this case quickly. But as she starts to look closely at the people around her, she realizes the killer may be closer to home than she could ever have imagined. What dark secrets are the villagers of Upper Benbury hiding? And can Melissa crack this deadly case before another life is taken? Do you love murder mysteries by Agatha Christie, Faith Martin, and P.D. James? If so, then you won’t be able to put down this gripping novel!
©1996, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Murder on a Winter Afternoon
Summary
A snow-covered cottage is nestled in the hills, all ready for Christmas...but inside a body lies dead upon the floor. Melissa Craig is enjoying her first winter in the Cotswolds, taking brisk walks through the snowy fields and basking in the winter sunshine. The only thing Melissa is plotting is her Christmas shopping. But after the unexpected death of local writer Leonora Jewell, Melissa is asked to complete Leonora’s final book. However, on her first visit to the cottage, she finds a gruesome object overlooked by the police: a metal bar covered with dried blood. Terrified, Melissa rushes to the nearest telephone box to call the police. But by the time they reach Leonora’s cottage, the murder weapon has mysteriously vanished. With no murder weapon, the detective in charge of the case scoffs at Melissa’s suspicions. Furious and frustrated, Melissa focuses on finishing Leonora’s novel. But as she reads Leonora’s notes for the book, she starts to wonder...did Leonora accidentally plot out her own murder? As Melissa does some investigating of her own, she uncovers some pretty suspicious local characters. But with the police unwilling to help, can Melissa solve this vicious crime alone? By hook, by crook, or by the book, Melissa must find the killers before they strike again.... If you adore Faith Martin, Joy Ellis, and P. D. James, you’re in for a treat with this pause-resisting mystery novel! This book was previously published as Deadly Legacy. What readers are saying about Betty Rowlands: "An absolutely addictive, wonderful story. Loved it from start to finish. Great pace and a delightful setting, colourful characters and thrilling mystery. This was a brilliant story and I cannot wait for more!" (Renita D’Silva, author of The Forgotten Daughter) "A lovely, peaceful and funny cozy mystery novel...plenty of very good laugh-out-loud moments...reminded me of Agatha Raisin... I’ll be definitely in the search of other books from this author in future. A perfect cozy mystery!" (Licence to Read) "Absolutely charming!... A good old-fashioned who-dunnit with just the right amount of mystery, intrigue and humour. Would definitely recommend!" (Stardust Book Reviews)
©1995, 2018 Betty Rowlands (P)2018 Bookouture
Death at Dearley Manor: A completely gripping cozy mystery
Summary
A gorgeous country house, surrounded by sweeping lawns, is warmed by the rising sun. But inside, the lady of the manor will not see the morning.... Police photographer Sukey Reynolds is called to investigate a seemingly routine break-in at the beautiful Dearley Manor estate, but when she arrives, she is shocked to find the body of someone she knows all too well. The owner of Dearley Manor is none other than the wealthy woman whom Sukey’s husband, Paul Reynolds, left her for...and she has been brutally murdered. With her close personal connection, Sukey is officially pulled off the case. But as the police close in on Paul, convinced he is guilty, Sukey realises she has no choice but to try and prove his innocence. He may not have been the world’s best husband, but he’s no killer. As she starts to dig around the dead woman’s history, Sukey realises she was certainly no saint, and many of her neighbours might have wanted the late owner of Dearley Manor out of the way.... When yet another woman on the Dearley Estate is found dead, Sukey fears that anyone who knows too much about the troubled family is in danger from a ruthless murderer. Can she prove Paul’s innocence before it’s too late? And will she be able to nail this brutal killer before another life is taken? An absolutely gripping murder mystery for fans of P. D. James, Joy Ellis, and Faith Martin from the best-selling queen of cozy crime.
©1998 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Hachette UK - Bookouture
Death at Ivy House
Summary
An utterly gripping English cozy mystery A quaint cottage in a pretty Victorian terrace with a neatly tended garden stands quiet and still...but inside the bedroom a woman lies dead upon the floor. Sukey Reynolds is enjoying a quiet period at work, taking time to get her garden in hand, catch up on some cooking, and spend time with her son. Murder is the last thing on her mind.... But when she is called to the charming Ivy House to photograph the dead body of a young woman, Sukey feels compelled to drop everything and do all she can to shed light on this baffling mystery. And whilst collecting evidence at a nearby hotel which had a break-in around the same time as the murder, she starts to wonder if the two cases might be linked. The manager just happened to let slip that one of her guests went white as a sheet after reading about the death and disappeared shortly afterwards. The very same guest whose room was broken into.... Sukey has a shrewd suspicion about who this man might be, and she fears he too could be in danger. Although she voices her theories, her detective colleagues are in no mood for any more of her amateur sleuthing. Sukey realises that if she wants to pursue her lead, she’ll have to do it alone. When Sukey agrees to a secret meeting by a remote river, has she made a terrible mistake? Has the killer lured her into the woods and into a trap? If you love novels by Agatha Christie, Faith Martin, or Joy Ellis, then this addictive mystery from the best-selling queen of cozy crime will have you hooked! This book was previously published as Dirty Work.
©2003, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Murder in the Orchard
Summary
A beautiful house nestles in an orchard, where a blackbird sings at dawn each morning from a branch laden with rosy fruit.... But underneath the trees a body lies too still to be asleep. Melissa Craig is struggling with her new novel, so when the invitation arrives to visit a nearby country house for some writing time, she decides a bit of peace and quiet is just what she needs. The house is everything she could have hoped for, even if the staff do seem rather unsettled.... She has barely unpacked when the owner of the house persuades Melissa to investigate some threatening notes he has received. But before she can do any digging, he is found murdered in his own orchard. As she starts to probe further, Melissa realizes that the dead man was universally disliked. Controlling, tight with money, and nasty, he certainly made some enemies. But who could have hated him enough to resort to murder - his seemingly timid wife, the secretary with whom he previously had an affair, or perhaps the gardener with an old secret? With the police looking for an outsider, Melissa is sure the murderer is close at hand. But can she prove it? And can she unmask the killer before they strike again? A completely unputdownable mystery for fans of Faith Martin, Joy Ellis, and P.D. James, which will have you totally hooked. This book was previously published as Malice Poetic.
©2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Death at Beacon Cottage: An Absolutely Addictive Cozy Mystery Novel
Summary
The sun breaks through the clouds to shine on a little cottage where a mossy path leads to the front door, but inside something terrible has happened.... Police photographer Sukey Reynolds is looking forward to a quiet weekend gardening at home, when she gets a call that there has been a shocking break-in at a local manor house. Once she begins to gather evidence, Sukey realizes that this is the latest in a spate of well-crafted burglaries in the Cotswolds. Someone is targeting expensive houses with valuable art collections.... Thankfully, the police soon have a suspect in custody. But, during questioning, he suddenly catches a glimpse of Sukey, turns deathly pale and calls out to her. Sukey is sure she has never met this man before.... Is this a bizarre joke, or is there a stranger out there who is Sukey’s perfect double in every way? Just as Sukey begins to suspect she’s being followed, the police are baffled by a spate of local murders. With the body count rising, and the police unsure of where to turn, is Sukey herself a clue in this strange case? Can she unmask the killer before she becomes the next victim? A murder mystery for fans of Agatha Christie, Joy Ellis, and Faith Martin from the best-selling queen of cozy crime. This book was previously published as Copycat.
©1999, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Coot Club
Summary
For anyone who loves sailing and adventure, Arthur Ransome's classic Swallows and Amazons series stands alone. Originally published over a half-century ago, the twelve books are still eagerly read by children and adults alike – by all those captivated by the world of adventure and imagination. Such longevity is not only due to Ransome’s unparalleled gift of storytelling, but also his championing of qualities such as independence and initiative; virtues that appeal to every generation, whether young or old. It all started with a coot's nest. Dorothy and Dick meet Tom Dodgeon, Port and Starboard, and three pirate salvagers all members of the Coot Club Bird Protection Society. When one of the coot's nests is disturbed by a shipful of Hullabaloos-rude holiday boaters, trouble begins. Frantic chases, calamitous boat collisions, and near drownings fill the pages of this exciting fifth addition to Ransome's classic children's series. Arthur Ransome was a prolific writer of children's books. Born in Leeds in 1884, it was his father, a nature-loving history professor, who inspired his love of the outdoors and nurtured a passion for fishing. As a child he enjoyed active, outdoor holidays: sailing, camping and exploring the countryside. He used many of these holiday settings for his children's stories, notably the much-loved Swallows and Amazons, a book that sits comfortably in the category of ‘timeless classic’. In 1936 he won the first ever Carnegie Medal for the sixth book in the Swallows & Amazons series, Pigeon Post.
©2013 Arthur Ransome (P)2013 Audible Ltd
Murder at the Old House: A gripping and unputdownable cozy mystery novel
Summary
The trees are green and hedgerows are bursting with new life as spring arrives in the Cotswolds, but inside a house that Melissa Craig used to know well, something terrible has happened.... Melissa has just finished writing her latest mystery novel and is enjoying the arrival of spring. She’s decided to let her fictional detective retire at last and perhaps put her own days of investigating behind her, too. But the ink has barely dried on the page when Melissa receives shocking news: Her estranged father has been found dead in the family home and her mother, Sylvia, is under suspicion of murder. Melissa hasn’t seen her parents for nearly 30 years, but on hearing the dreadful news she rushes to her mother’s side. Melissa is sure that Sylvia could never commit a murder, but Sylvia does seem to be keeping secrets.... With no one else to turn to, Sylvia begs Melissa to investigate the case. Melissa knows her father was a difficult man, but now she needs to work out who wanted him dead...a disgruntled employee, the controlling family lawyer, or perhaps the woman with whom he was having an affair? When another body is found, Melissa realizes she’s dealing with a ruthless killer. As the police close in, trying to pin both deaths on her mother, Melissa must act fast. Can she find a way to unmask the true killer before she loses her mother for a second time and possibly forever? If you can’t get enough of murder mysteries by Agatha Christie, Faith Martin or P. D. James, you’ll love this twisty detective novel! This book was previously published as The Fourth Suspect. "An absolutely addictive, wonderful story. Loved it from start to finish. Great pace and a delightful setting, colourful characters and thrilling mystery. This was a brilliant story and I cannot wait for more!" (Renita D’Silva, author of The Forgotten Daughter, five stars) "Once I started reading I couldn't put it down as it was entertaining and enthralling.... The mystery was interesting and it kept me guessing till the end.... Highly recommended!" (Scrapping and Playing, five stars) "The quintessential cozy mystery...the storyline is fast-paced and engaging...builds to an adrenaline fuelled ending, full of action and powerful imagery. An enjoyable, escapist read that I suspect may become my secret addiction." (Jane Hunt’s Blog, five stars)
©2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Death at Burwell Farm
Summary
A totally unputdownable cozy mystery A rambling old house, surrounded by a gorgeous rose garden with an elegant fountain, looks too perfect to be true. But could this beautiful place be the link between a string of peculiar deaths? Sukey Reynolds is photographing the scene of a burglary at Burwell Farm for the police, when she finds herself drawn to the crumbling building and peaceful surroundings. Burwell Farm doesn’t grow crops or raise animals, but as a retreat, the owners do make some extraordinary claims about healing the soul.... But before Sukey can get too intrigued, she’s called to another break-in at the house of a young widow, whose husband spent a great deal of time at...Burwell Farm. Sukey starts to wonder if there is something more sinister going on behind the perfectly manicured lawns.... After her police colleagues refuse to take her suspicions seriously, Sukey decides the time has come to do some sleuthing on her own. But who is the thorn in the rose garden? Is it the beautiful receptionist, the gardener with a secret to hide, or perhaps the leader who inspires such devotion? Then someone is murdered in the garden of Burwell Farm while she is there and Sukey realises she has landed herself in deep water. Can Sukey solve the mystery that has blighted this stunning house? And can she catch the killer before they turn on her? A completely addictive murder mystery for fans of P.D. James, Faith Martin, and Joy Ellis that will have you hooked! This book was previously published as Touch Me Not.
©2001, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Murder in a Country Garden: A Completely Addictive English Cozy Murder Mystery
Summary
A perfect country garden is full of flowers and gently buzzing bees.... But the man lying dead beneath the trees can no longer see the beautiful scene. Melissa Craig is thrilled that summer has arrived. She has decided to give up her career as an amateur sleuth and enjoy a quiet life in her beautiful cottage. The only digging in Melissa’s life now happens in her garden. However, when a keen beekeeper is found dead, covered in multiple stings, her new resolve is tested. As she gets to know the family of the dead man, she realizes he was no saint. Could someone have possibly wanted him dead? Could this be a very clever murder? As Melissa starts to probe the victim’s friends and acquaintances, another member of the family is also stung to death. Who could have turned the bees against their keeper? And when will they strike again? With the residents of Upper Benbury now fearful to open their windows to the summer air and the police treating the deaths as accidental, Melissa must solve this case herself. To find the killer with the sharpest sting, she may have to delve deep into the hive.... If you can’t get enough of mysteries by Agatha Christie, P. D. James, or Faith Martin, you will love this irresistible mystery novel. This book was previously published as Sweet Venom.
©2004, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Death on a Summer Morning
Summary
A handsome house sits proudly next to a luscious lawn, where birds sing in the cherry tree. But on this summer morning, the birds have taken flight and the owner of the house lies too still to be asleep.... Sukey Reynolds is delighted that summer has arrived. Her garden is in glorious form, and the long, warm days give her a chance to enjoy the countryside, and even play a bit of tennis. The only digging she plans to do is in her flowerbeds. But then Sukey is called to photograph the scene of what appears to be a tragic accident. Arthur Soames, a retired school teacher, fell to his death from the ornate iron staircase above his perfectly manicured lawn. But when the police notify his family, they are adamant that this is no accident.... Is this summer’s day turning out to be curiously chilly? When Arthur’s daughter won’t leave the police in peace, Sukey reluctantly agrees to help put her mind to rest. As she starts to poke about in the dead man’s past, she realises he was keeping secrets, and several people might well have wanted him dead. But who would resort to murder? Could it have been Arthur’s enchanting fiancée, a sullen ex-student, or maybe a nettled neighbour? An old address written on a small piece of paper is the clue that Sukey needs, but can she convince her police colleagues that this death on a summer morning was no accident and solve this baffling mystery at last? If you love cozy mysteries by P.D. James, Agatha Christie or Faith Martin, then this addictive novel from the best-selling queen of cozy crime will have you hooked! This book was previously published as Deadly Obsession.
©2004; 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Death on Clevedon Beach
Summary
A seaside town, scrumptious ice cream, and...mysterious murder? Sukey Reynolds is back from a holiday, feeling happy and relaxed. She and a friend have been touring the French coast, enjoying the wine and cheese and soaking up the sun in Brittany. She has barely unpacked her bags when she is sent back to the seaside but, this time, not for fun. Sukey arrives at the charming coastal town of Clevedon, where a woman’s body has been washed up on the sandy beach. Her identity is a mystery, but Sukey is determined to find out how she ended up there and who exactly she is. The police are at their wits’ end, and with no leads or suspects, Sukey decides to leaf through old cases. She is shocked to realize that this woman is not the first to turn up on the shore and even finds a link between the cold cases: Several of the murder suspects had the same decorative tattoo inked on their skin. After further investigating, she realizes the distinctive symbol means "death". Her superiors scoff at her theory, so it’s up to Sukey to prove them wrong and find the devious killer herself. From tattoo parlors to the music halls, she has no shortage of places to investigate. But can she uncover the true culprit and the identity of the mystery woman before they strike again? An absolutely gripping murder mystery from the queen of cozy crime, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, P.D. James, or Faith Martin. This book was previously published as A Fool There Was.
©2009, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Murder in the Dining Room: An absolutely gripping British cozy mystery
Summary
A grand old house soaks up the golden summer sun...but inside the dining room something dreadful has happened. Melissa couldn’t be happier that summer has arrived. She’s delighted to have her mother back by her side, and she is extending her beloved Hawthorn Cottage so her new family can live together. Meanwhile, Melissa’s mother, Sylvia, is back in good health and enjoying a brief stay at a stately retirement home. She loves getting to know the residents, until first a dog and then his owner are both found dead in the dining room. Like mother, like daughter, Sylvia decides to do a little investigating of her own. Convinced that the deaths are suspicious, Sylvia starts probing her fellow residents, trying to find out who might have wanted the dog and its owner dead. Could it be the once-married couple, or the glamorous actors, or the harassed manager of the home? When one of Sylvia’s friends falls ill in suspicious circumstances, Melissa realizes her mother has rattled someone, but who? And what happens if the killer realizes they’ve been rumbled? Will Sylvia find herself meeting a villain in the dining room? And can Melissa find the culprit before another life is taken? An absolutely gripping mystery for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin, and Joy Ellis! This book was previously published as No Laughing Matter. What reviewers are saying about Betty Rowlands: "An absolutely addictive, wonderful story. Loved it from start to finish. Great pace and a delightful setting, colourful characters and thrilling mystery. This was a brilliant story and I cannot wait for more!" (Renita D’Silva, author of The Forgotten Daughter, 5 stars) "Once I started reading I couldn't put it down as it was entertaining and enthralling… The mystery was interesting and it kept me guessing till the end... Highly recommended!" (Scrapping and Playing, 5 stars) "The quintessential cozy mystery...the storyline is fast-paced and engaging...builds to an adrenaline fuelled ending, full of action and powerful imagery. An enjoyable, escapist read that I suspect may become my secret addiction." (Jane Hunt’s Blog, 5 stars)
©2003, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture
Murder at Benbury Brook: An Absolutely Gripping English Cozy Mystery
Summary
A babbling brook runs alongside a wooded glade, surrounded by autumn light and birdsong. But next to the stream a young woman lies dead, her once bright blonde hair now limp and lifeless... Melissa Craig has settled into a new job in the charming Cotswolds village of Upper Benbury. She is teaching French to several of the local teenagers, which gives her a fascinating insight into the young people’s lives. Material for a new novel, perhaps.... Her quiet life is interrupted when she sees her new neighbour running out of the woods in a blind panic. Melissa rushes to help him, but what she finds leaves her breathless: The body of young woman is lying on the bank of the river. When suspicion falls on Melissa’s neighbour, a man with a difficult past trying to make a new start, Melissa feels determined to prove his innocence. With the village in turmoil and the police sure they’ve got their man, she must act quickly. As she interviews the local residents, she realises there are several sinister characters lurking inside those charming Cotswold cottages.... Could one of them have hurt Cissie? Was it the strange old man with a cottage near the river? Or the ailing ex-choirmaster with quite an eye for the ladies? When Melissa Craig decides to get her teeth into a case, she doesn’t let go - nothing will stop her from solving this murder. Can she prove the innocence of her new friend? And will she unearth the culprit before another young life is taken?
©2000, 2019 Betty Rowlands (P)2019 Bookouture