Marilyn Leach has created a wonderful cozy mystery series set in a small English village. Grab your cup of tea and enjoy Marilyn's "tour" of her 5th and latest book in the Berdie Elliot series.
Thanks, L.A. for hosting me on your blog.
The North of England grabbed me by the throat and won my heart the moment I stepped onto its soil. I knew this untamed part of England, Northumbria, near the Scottish borders, was abundant fuel for stories.
When first I saw Lindesfarne Castle loom over the landscape of tiny Holy Island, wind blowing the rush of modern life from my soul, the history of the place settled in like a warm cup of tea on a blustery day. My story would be a mystery set in current day but with roots reaching back into history.
All Hallows Dead: A Berdie Elliott Saints Day Mystery is the fruit of that idea. Berdie and husband Hugh, a vicar, are attending a church course in Northumbria when Berdie’s captivated by the mysteries of an ancient church.
Two “accidental” deaths occur in circumstances she finds questionable. Set among the ruins of Criswell Abbey, Berdie discovers truths that will impact Criswell’s entire village, from a local pub owner to the lord of the manner.
Of course, there’s plenty of humor as Berdie and her best friend, Lillie, get into circumstances that make us chuckle, all while solving dastardly events. Pretending to be artists, for the sake of snooping, turns into an art form unto itself.
All Hallows Dead is a perfect read for this time of year. All Saints Day, November 1, marks our collective memory of those devoted pilgrims that have marched on in faith before us. During this season, a comfy chair, hot beverage, and snuggly throw are all amenities that make reading All Hallows Dead an enjoyable event.
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Bio:
Though Marilyn grew up in the Western United States, she became a dyed-in-the-wool British enthusiast after exploring the UK and making friends there. She has co-authored plays that have been performed in both secular and church venues.
Her many devotionals have appeared in such works as The Quiet Heart, Big Dreams in Small Places, and Guideposts. In her current British mystery series with Pelican Books, Berdie Elliott is the intrepid vicar’s wife who solves crime with a little help from above. Marilyn lives in a lakeside cottage on the front range of the Rocky Mountains.
Find Marilyn:
Website | Amazon Author Page | Facebook
What secrets lie within the stones of Criswell Abbey’s medieval church, St. Baldred’s? Berdie Elliott digs to find the truth in All Hallows Dead.
Lastingham Stairs |
Thanks so much for having me this special day of All Saints, Leslie. Its a privilege to be here. Love to hear comments. Cheers
ReplyDeleteThe fun sort of yarn to enjoy with some cocoa on a dark night! Very Agatha Christie-ish.
ReplyDeleteFunny you should mention Agatha Christie. One of my favorite authors, and to whom, others have compared my stories. Thanks Roulf. Cheers
DeleteCan't wait to read this book, Marilyn. And yes Roulf, cocoa on a dark night. I'm ready!!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
L.A.
Maybe, at this time of year, hot spied vino wouldn't go amiss either. Cheers
DeleteSounds like my kind of mystery read. Love the north and northwest of England. So rugged. All the best, Marilyn.
ReplyDeletePat Jeanne, so glad you dropped in. I love all of England, but the North has a special appeal in terms of the history. Holy Island is a favorite. Cheers
DeleteAnother Berdie Elliott mystery -- what a great way to start the month! Thanks, too, for including the photos of your setting. They made me want to pack my bags and head off to Merry Old England.
ReplyDeleteAmanda, I'll sneak you in my carry-on the next trip. Wouldn't a writer's group adventure to England be fun? And I'm so delighted my All Saints mystery released on this All Saints Day! Cheers
DeleteThe pictures you've posted are as intriguing as the book. So much history and emotional pull in the ruins. What a perfect place for a murder...or two.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, Audra. When you combine the beauty of the landscape, the ruins of the place along with England's turbulent history, it sets things up for intrigue. And, yes, there's two "accidents" that Berdie proves are anything but. Thanks for dropping by. Cheers
DeleteI can't wait to read this latest release!
ReplyDeleteI hope you have a comfy chair and hot cocoa to make it that much more fun to read. Thanks, Karen. Cheers
ReplyDeleteYou dream up the most intriguing titles for your novels! Congratulations on your fifth book! Birdie Elliot stays busy!
ReplyDelete