I’m always so happy to head back to Elderwick, the North Yorkshire village setting for Rachael Gray’s cosy mystery series.
Psychologist Laurel Nightingale moved to the village in the first book, A Little Bird Told Me, and we got to meet the residents in the community at the same time as she did. We only get to know as much as Laurel knows, and uncover things as she does. This allows each new book in the series to peel back more layers as we to get to know the village a little better together.
In the third instalment, the Elderwick Hall estate has been sold to a charity to provide breaks and support for disadvantaged children and teens. As part of their development, an archaeological survey is arranged before a farm shop can be built on the grounds.
There’s some excitement when bones are uncovered at the site, which turns to dismay, shock and horror when the remains turn out to not be as old as expected. Unearthing the remains brings the fear that long buried village secrets will be forced out into the open, and the danger may still be present in Elderwick.
As is the wont in small village communities, the rumour mill soon kicks into overdrive, and even Laurel’s closest friends don’t escape suspicion. How well does she really know her newfound confidantes?
A Storm in a Teacup is compelling mystery that makes us question what we think we know about the characters we know and love. It’s a brilliant addition to an outstanding series; one of the best cosy series out there.
The only frustrating part is that Elderwick isn’t real and I can’t go there for cake. Dammit.
A Storm in a Teacup is out on 24 March – get your orders in now!
Many thanks to the author for an advance copy provided in exchange for an honest review
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