Slander in Somerset

It's springtime in Somerset, and Daphne Noble is enjoying her first romance with her recently acquired suitor, Mr. Gainsworth. She just wishes the rest of the village wasn't observing their courtship with a feverish interest, especially not when there are so many other things to study-like the lovely new police constable or the first practices of the M.U.M rugby club. Won't anything distract these nosy villagers?

A murder, perhaps?

When the flashy young cousin of Mrs. Parker is found dead on the train from London to Mortlake, everyone recalls the girl had a penchant for big talk about her dalliances with rich men in the "big city" and her plans for a pampered life as a wealthy wife. Suspicion falls upon mill owner Harry Peckham, and Daphne expects the village's new constable to spring into action to investigate and clear his name. Sadly, it turns out that Constable Cranford is all thumbs when it comes to murder, although he's excellent at drinking vast quantities of tea with the ailing and elderly of the village.

It's left to Daphne and Mr. Gainsworth to ride to the rescue and save Mr. Peckham from the slanderous accusations made by the victim's family and find the real killer before Constable Cranford arrests the wrong man! Can they investigate a crime and keep their romance alive, or will the strain snap Cupid's arrows just as they've made their mark?

Mill-Upon-Mortlake Cozy Historical Mysteries can be read in order or as standalones. All feature classic, cozy British village mysteries perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Agatha Christie.