Murder by Candlelight by Faith Martin

Fans of cosy mysteries with a locked room theme and those who want to read a light, enjoyable story will welcome Murder by Candlelight. It is 1924 and the quiet Cotvillage of Maybury-in-the-Marsh  is shocked by the murder of Amy Phelps, a rich woman prominent in local affairs. Arbuthnot ‘Arbie’ Swift the author of The Gentleman’s Guide to Ghost-Hunting had been commissioned by Amy Phelps to investigate a ghost in her house and now finds himself trying to deal with her murder. Assisted by Val, the daughter of the local vicar, he uncovers secrets, altered wills and many motives for murder.

This is a very enjoyable mystery, with witty dialogue, two likeable young investigators and enough red herrings to keep the reader immersed in the story while trying to work out who is the murderer. If you are looking for a quick read, then this book is sure to entertain. And it ticks all the boxes for the cosy genre – large house, village life, likeable investigators, rich protagonists and few gory descriptions. Murder by candlelight is followed by The last word is death, which is equally as entertaining. Readers may also enjoy Faith Martin’s The lavender lady, a stand-alone mystery about ghost hunters.

Themes: Cosy mystery, Ghosts, Murder.

Pat Pledger