Fay Sampson

This was my first introduction to Fay Sampson (who apparently has a list of titles to her name), and I think I've found a new series to add to my reading list. The Wounded Snake appears to be book 2 in the West Country Mystery series), but it could easily be a stand-alone. Some long-running series are difficult to pick up in the middle, but I didn't feel that I was missing vital information about the characters in this book.

Hilary and her friend Veronica head to Morland Abbey for a course on writing mysteries. As a retired teacher, Hilary has plans for a historical setting whilst Veronica is leaning towards a romance. Unfortunately, their weekend is disrupted when first the guest of honor is poisoned and then one of the course leaders ends up dead.

Hilary and Veronica--while older ladies with adult children--do not fall into the Miss Marple mold, and are soon on the case. Interesting story and plot twists, and the setting was well-used. Highly recommended for those looking for their next read.

A digital review copy was provided by NetGalley.… (més)

Amateur genealogist Suzie Fewings is disturbed when she finds out that a potential ancestor who shares the same name as her son had killed a man during the Commonwealth era in the 17th century. When her 17-year-old son becomes a suspect in the murder of a teenage girl in their community, Suzie's fears become irrational. Then danger threatens her 13-year-old daughter. Suzie sets out to find the alleged killer while coming to terms with the unpleasant details of her ancestors' lives.

I really wanted to like this book since it combines genealogy with a murder mystery. Unfortunately, it didn't work for me. Not only did the author try unsuccessfully to tie together a 17th century murder and a 21st century murder, she also added a second crime involving Suzie's daughter. It's just too much coincidence to be credible. To top it off, the author throws in a paranormal experience from out of left field. Readers will need a lot of stamina to follow Suzie as she jumps from one conclusion to another. She makes unwarranted assumptions about her ancestry, and she makes unwarranted assumptions about the criminal(s) at loose in her community. Suzie isn't a likeable protagonist for a mystery. She reacts to circumstances and acts impulsively without planning or purpose. If I was her friend, I'd be encouraging her to see a therapist. This is one series I won't be continuing.… (més)