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Homefront Sleuths #8
The Valentine Cipher
Love is in the air in wartime England—but so is murder.
Crofter’s Green is abuzz with excitement. Seven young couples are preparing to say their vows at a Valentine's Day celebration—an event made even more thrilling by the expected arrival of a very important (and very secret) the most famous woman in the world.
But when the beloved village curate is found dead just days before the ceremony, Harry is called in to investigate what looks suspiciously like murder. Then, in London, Evie and Nigel intercept a Norwegian spy’s cipher—and the dead curate’s name is hidden within it.
As the Homefront Sleuths race to uncover the truth, they're forced to Which of the blushing brides is hiding a deadly secret? And can they stop a plot that could change the course of history—before vows are spoken and lives are lost?
Meanwhile, as love hangs in the air, Evie and Nigel must confront a question that’s far more personal—and one only Valentine’s Day may help them answer.
Packed with charm, suspense, and heart, The Valentine Cipher is a cozy mystery full of romantic twists and wartime secrets that will keep you guessing until the final toast. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Jacqueline Winspear!
One-click now for romance, intrigue, and cozy mystery magic!
Crofter’s Green is abuzz with excitement. Seven young couples are preparing to say their vows at a Valentine's Day celebration—an event made even more thrilling by the expected arrival of a very important (and very secret) the most famous woman in the world.
But when the beloved village curate is found dead just days before the ceremony, Harry is called in to investigate what looks suspiciously like murder. Then, in London, Evie and Nigel intercept a Norwegian spy’s cipher—and the dead curate’s name is hidden within it.
As the Homefront Sleuths race to uncover the truth, they're forced to Which of the blushing brides is hiding a deadly secret? And can they stop a plot that could change the course of history—before vows are spoken and lives are lost?
Meanwhile, as love hangs in the air, Evie and Nigel must confront a question that’s far more personal—and one only Valentine’s Day may help them answer.
Packed with charm, suspense, and heart, The Valentine Cipher is a cozy mystery full of romantic twists and wartime secrets that will keep you guessing until the final toast. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Jacqueline Winspear!
One-click now for romance, intrigue, and cozy mystery magic!
498 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2026
328 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Anna Elliott
131 books467 followersAnna Elliott is an author of historical fiction and fantasy. She enjoys stories about strong women, and loves exploring the multitude of ways women can find their unique strengths. She was delighted to lend a hand with the Sherlock & Lucy series, and thrilled to continue a new spin-off series featuring Becky and Flynn. Her first series, the Twilight of Avalon trilogy, is a retelling of the Trystan & Isolde legend. She wrote her second series, The Pride & Prejudice Chronicles , chiefly to satisfy her own curiosity about what might have happened to Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and all the other wonderful cast of characters after the official end of Jane Austen’s classic work.
WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...
Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.
WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...
Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
February 15, 2026
3.5 Stars
It would seem that this series is enjoyed by many, but for me this was my first book. It is well written, plotted with precision and enjoyable from the perspective of bringing a bit of history to life. Eleanor Roosevelt's visit is greatly anticipated as the plot builds and possible problems surrounding the visit are uncovered. War-time life was illustrated vividly. I may dip further into the series.
Kindle Unlimited
It would seem that this series is enjoyed by many, but for me this was my first book. It is well written, plotted with precision and enjoyable from the perspective of bringing a bit of history to life. Eleanor Roosevelt's visit is greatly anticipated as the plot builds and possible problems surrounding the visit are uncovered. War-time life was illustrated vividly. I may dip further into the series.
Kindle Unlimited
February 20, 2026
Three and a half stars
Not really a four-star book but a decided improvement on the previous book in the series. So the four stars makes up for my two-star rating last time. There were still some repetitive phrases and women with "hair pulled back into severe buns," but overall, it was slightly less Nancy Drew, and who did it wasn't immediately obvious. However, I'm pretty sure Merriweather was British army, and they put him in an American uniform, and towards the end, bad guys were coming out of the woodwork. 😏 It might have been a little excessive. Plus, for Pete's sake, please don't have Nigel or Evie get kidnapped in the next one!! That plot line is getting a little old now.
This was a final chance for the series for me and it passed well enough that I'll give the next book a try when it's released. A basic, semi-cozy mystery.
Not really a four-star book but a decided improvement on the previous book in the series. So the four stars makes up for my two-star rating last time. There were still some repetitive phrases and women with "hair pulled back into severe buns," but overall, it was slightly less Nancy Drew, and who did it wasn't immediately obvious. However, I'm pretty sure Merriweather was British army, and they put him in an American uniform, and towards the end, bad guys were coming out of the woodwork. 😏 It might have been a little excessive. Plus, for Pete's sake, please don't have Nigel or Evie get kidnapped in the next one!! That plot line is getting a little old now.
This was a final chance for the series for me and it passed well enough that I'll give the next book a try when it's released. A basic, semi-cozy mystery.
February 8, 2026
As someone who has followed this series from the very beginning, reading The Valentine Cipher felt like catching up with old friends. Anna Elliott has a gift for weaving the tension of World War II espionage with the comforting "cozy" atmosphere that keeps me coming back book after book.
The best part of reading these in order is watching the characters grow. They aren’t static; their relationships, confidence, and worldviews shift realistically with every mystery and every year the war progresses.
If you haven’t started this series yet, do yourself a favour and start from book one so you can appreciate the full journey. I’m already counting down the days until March—I’ve already pre-ordered the next release and can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
The best part of reading these in order is watching the characters grow. They aren’t static; their relationships, confidence, and worldviews shift realistically with every mystery and every year the war progresses.
If you haven’t started this series yet, do yourself a favour and start from book one so you can appreciate the full journey. I’m already counting down the days until March—I’ve already pre-ordered the next release and can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
March 22, 2026
Oh, boy, oh boy... The Germans are at it again, and the sleuths of Crofter's Green have a ticking time bomb (possibly literally).
I loved the way Elliott and Veley worked in Eleanor Roosevelt's visit to England into their plot. I also love that I got the "who" both right and kind of wrong as well. Well done, you!
We also get a new character in this one. I'm SOOOOOOOO excited to see where this could go. Authors... spin-off series in the 50s? PLEASE?
A friend (or is she???) said this was the last book in the series, and I was seriously upset about that, but alas, she was wrong. At least two more to come. I am a happy camper.
I loved the way Elliott and Veley worked in Eleanor Roosevelt's visit to England into their plot. I also love that I got the "who" both right and kind of wrong as well. Well done, you!
We also get a new character in this one. I'm SOOOOOOOO excited to see where this could go. Authors... spin-off series in the 50s? PLEASE?
A friend (or is she???) said this was the last book in the series, and I was seriously upset about that, but alas, she was wrong. At least two more to come. I am a happy camper.
March 3, 2026
I have a lot of feelings about this book. As ever, I love the characters, the setting, and the adventure/mystery. But this installment felt both rushed and slow at the same time. Parts of the story were repetitive, and then there were several editing errors, including using the word "February" to describe the cold weather or winter lighting over a dozen times. It was also a lot more violent, which doesn't bother me in reading, but it might some readers! All in all, I enjoyed the story, though. I was going to do a 3.5 rating but rounded to a 4 because of my love for the characters and time period and setting.
January 12, 2026
Homefront Sleuths
Another episode in the wartime saga of the Homefront Sleuths. Worth reading. Clever deduction, breathtaking chase, nerve wracking escape. Quite a bit of willing suspension of disbelief needed, but hey! Good fun
Another episode in the wartime saga of the Homefront Sleuths. Worth reading. Clever deduction, breathtaking chase, nerve wracking escape. Quite a bit of willing suspension of disbelief needed, but hey! Good fun
April 7, 2026
I can’t help but love this series.
I adore the characters. I enjoy every story and the collaborative contributions of all the sleuths to solve the murder. I love the development of the characters…the blossoming romance between Evie and Nigel, that Blake and Catherine are starting a family, the confidence growing in Dorothy and the gentle nudges of hope that the authors lay out that there might be more companionship to come between Alice and Harry (she says hopefully!).
The premise of this particular romp was so well done. The build of the plot, the pieces of the puzzle coming together, then not…the inevitability that Evie would get kidnapped (again!). The methodical approach of interviewing all the brides and grooms - planting seeds to throw the reader off the scent of where to look. Amazing.
One thing that I’m not sure was answered though and it’s bugging me - how were Norman and Jean Fletcher already married according to the records that Alice found in London??????
The discovery that the magistrate was involved…I literally shouted out “Nooooo! Not the magistrate” (terrifying my dogs 😂) cause I just thought it was too obvious the way he’d been depicted by his daughter.
And what an absolute treat the ladies had having a visit from Eleanor Roosevelt to the tea shop! A story to pass down generation to generation. All the busybodies in the village will be raging to have missed out on that lol
I do hope that Alfie and Pilot do stick around.
And the ending - Blake solving the cypher only to leave us on a huge cliffhanger!! Can’t wait for the next instalment already!
I adore the characters. I enjoy every story and the collaborative contributions of all the sleuths to solve the murder. I love the development of the characters…the blossoming romance between Evie and Nigel, that Blake and Catherine are starting a family, the confidence growing in Dorothy and the gentle nudges of hope that the authors lay out that there might be more companionship to come between Alice and Harry (she says hopefully!).
The premise of this particular romp was so well done. The build of the plot, the pieces of the puzzle coming together, then not…the inevitability that Evie would get kidnapped (again!). The methodical approach of interviewing all the brides and grooms - planting seeds to throw the reader off the scent of where to look. Amazing.
One thing that I’m not sure was answered though and it’s bugging me - how were Norman and Jean Fletcher already married according to the records that Alice found in London??????
The discovery that the magistrate was involved…I literally shouted out “Nooooo! Not the magistrate” (terrifying my dogs 😂) cause I just thought it was too obvious the way he’d been depicted by his daughter.
And what an absolute treat the ladies had having a visit from Eleanor Roosevelt to the tea shop! A story to pass down generation to generation. All the busybodies in the village will be raging to have missed out on that lol
I do hope that Alfie and Pilot do stick around.
And the ending - Blake solving the cypher only to leave us on a huge cliffhanger!! Can’t wait for the next instalment already!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
Waaaay tooo long. There is a lot of repetition and the plot seemed rushed. There is one point where they interview back-to-back six brides to be and the author has the brides say almost identical things and in many cases identical. I thought it was going to come out they were all coached or something. This is a very weak entry into the world of Homefront Sleuths. It felt simultaneously rushed and too long. Needed much better editing and a lot of absurdities.
April 30, 2026
I like this series but I have found the last two a bit disappointing with plot lines repeated and the main emphasis being on the soap opera element. This one started with more promise but by the end I didn’t really understand all that had been going on. What was the plot with the marriage certificates? Why were Norman and Jean apparently already married? It seemed very unlikely too that Eleanor Roosevelt would visit a small place like Crofters Green for a morale boosting photo opportunity.
Despite these reservations I will continue with books 9 and 10 but will have a bit of a break for now.
Despite these reservations I will continue with books 9 and 10 but will have a bit of a break for now.
January 9, 2026
The Homefront Sleuths are still battling German spies in the Kentish village of Crofter's Green. This time around a Valentine's Day wedding of seven wartime couples will be celebrated at the local airbase community hall with the help of local women to decorate, arrange flowers donated from local estate greenhouses, and baked goods made with horded food rations. When word gets around that American First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, on a mission to strengthen ties with the British after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, will be present for the weddings, the Sleuths are concerned. Then a local curate is murdered and a St. Valentine's relic is stolen from St. Mary's Church. While investigating the curate's death, the Sleuths stumble upon a plan ti assassinate Mrs. Roosevelt and must devise a plan to catch the killer. Crofter's Green is still a cozy English village full of unique characters and the sleuths are still members of the community. Alice ontinues to grow herbs for homeopathic remedies while she also does research for the group. Evie is still an operative for MI6 who just happens to run a tea room. Dorothy is still nurturing her family between ferreting out useful gossip. Blake and Katherine are still deciphering codes. And Nigel and Harry are still leading the investigations from inside the constabulary. Despite some tense moments, Mrs. Roosevelt survives her trip to Crofter's Green and leaves assured that the British homefront is full of competent guardians against the Nazi menace. I love this series and everyone eccentric villager.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love is in the frosty air of Crofter's Green, and so is wartime intrigue. The Valentine Cipher will see seven couples wed. All of the brides-to-be are involved in the war effort. Most work of them work helping farmers as part of the Women's Land Army.
Love is in the frosty air of Crofter's Green, and so is wartime intrigue. The Valentine Cipher will see seven couples wed. All of the brides‑to‑be are involved in the war effort. Most of them work helping farmers as part of the Women’s Land Army.
Crofter’s Green will be getting a visit from a very special American for the Valentine’s Day weddings. This has both American and British military commanders in the area on high alert.
The Curate of St. Mary’s, Timothy Vale, is found dead in his church office. At first it is thought to be an accident. Timothy Vale is meticulous in all he does; if he hadn’t become a cleric, he would probably have become an accountant. Just prior to his death, he remarked to Reverend Markham that something was amiss with the paperwork for the weddings.
Meanwhile, Evie and Neville are at a party at the Norwegian Embassy, tasked with getting information on a member of the staff who is passing intel to the enemy.
Spies, a special visitor, and weddings add up to a tangled web that will require the efforts of all the Hometown Sleuths to unravel.
As always, do read the Historical Notes section. It contains facts that pertain to the story. And if you haven’t already done so in an earlier book, read About the Authors—the father‑and‑daughter writing team of Veley and Elliott has added forty‑odd stories to the Sherlock Holmes canon and are now well on their way to taking us through World War II, detailing the patriotism and caring a nation exhibits during such adversity.
The Valentine Cipher is a bit of a nail‑biter that will keep you reading well past your bedtime. You might as well pour yourself another cup of tea and imagine yourself at the Cozy Cup with Evie, Alice, and Dorothy; Harry and Nigel; and Blake and Katherine, pondering the clues they have collected.
The continuing saga of Crofter’s Green truly shines when read in order, each installment offering a thread of foreshadowing that rewards loyal readers. With every book, the village feels a little more lived‑in, the friendships a little deeper, and the stakes a little more personal. I’m eager to see what the next chapter brings—and whether another romance is quietly waiting to bloom.
Love is in the frosty air of Crofter's Green, and so is wartime intrigue. The Valentine Cipher will see seven couples wed. All of the brides‑to‑be are involved in the war effort. Most of them work helping farmers as part of the Women’s Land Army.
Crofter’s Green will be getting a visit from a very special American for the Valentine’s Day weddings. This has both American and British military commanders in the area on high alert.
The Curate of St. Mary’s, Timothy Vale, is found dead in his church office. At first it is thought to be an accident. Timothy Vale is meticulous in all he does; if he hadn’t become a cleric, he would probably have become an accountant. Just prior to his death, he remarked to Reverend Markham that something was amiss with the paperwork for the weddings.
Meanwhile, Evie and Neville are at a party at the Norwegian Embassy, tasked with getting information on a member of the staff who is passing intel to the enemy.
Spies, a special visitor, and weddings add up to a tangled web that will require the efforts of all the Hometown Sleuths to unravel.
As always, do read the Historical Notes section. It contains facts that pertain to the story. And if you haven’t already done so in an earlier book, read About the Authors—the father‑and‑daughter writing team of Veley and Elliott has added forty‑odd stories to the Sherlock Holmes canon and are now well on their way to taking us through World War II, detailing the patriotism and caring a nation exhibits during such adversity.
The Valentine Cipher is a bit of a nail‑biter that will keep you reading well past your bedtime. You might as well pour yourself another cup of tea and imagine yourself at the Cozy Cup with Evie, Alice, and Dorothy; Harry and Nigel; and Blake and Katherine, pondering the clues they have collected.
The continuing saga of Crofter’s Green truly shines when read in order, each installment offering a thread of foreshadowing that rewards loyal readers. With every book, the village feels a little more lived‑in, the friendships a little deeper, and the stakes a little more personal. I’m eager to see what the next chapter brings—and whether another romance is quietly waiting to bloom.
April 8, 2026
This series is enjoyable. The characters are relatable and likeable and you feel an attachment to them hoping they succeed in whatever mystery they are attempting to solve. I'm not sure I feel the "two author" format works very well though. Many times (in this as well as previous books in the series) when a new chapter begins it seems clear that it's like a game of tag. One author wrote the chapter before while the other is writing the next one and it seems SO clunky. The new chapter will begin and sometimes repeat what has JUST been explained in the previous chapter as though the author writing this new chapter has not bothered to even read what has been written for that previous chapter. Messy and unnecessary, not to mention driving readers crazy with all the repetition.
SPOILER
My big issue with many mystery books is the lack of follow through that some authors have and writing on the ASSUMPTION that readers have amnesia so they don't tie up clues that have been detailed in the story. Did I miss how Jean knew her fiancé was fake? Did I miss why Alice found the clue in the register that said Jean and what's his name already WERE married? How could their names be listed as married when they weren't? Did that get covered and my eyes glazed over so I missed it? These things tend to nag at the corners of my brain when I've finished a book and something that appeared to be important is left hanging and not addressed or closed off neatly.
As I said though, the books are enjoyable and will read more if they are written even if some things aggravate me!
SPOILER
My big issue with many mystery books is the lack of follow through that some authors have and writing on the ASSUMPTION that readers have amnesia so they don't tie up clues that have been detailed in the story. Did I miss how Jean knew her fiancé was fake? Did I miss why Alice found the clue in the register that said Jean and what's his name already WERE married? How could their names be listed as married when they weren't? Did that get covered and my eyes glazed over so I missed it? These things tend to nag at the corners of my brain when I've finished a book and something that appeared to be important is left hanging and not addressed or closed off neatly.
As I said though, the books are enjoyable and will read more if they are written even if some things aggravate me!
February 19, 2026
Best of the series so far
All the usual characters are present for this latest installment of our hometown sleuths during World War II in Britain.
The book is certainly well researched, providing details that most folks would not be aware of, and make for startling and cleverly constructed diabolical aspirations on the part of the Nazis.
For the most part, the pacing is really good and the character development is spot on. We have some new characters introduced, which is done so effortlessly that it seems that they have always been a part of the storyline. There are several villains, and while some might appear suspect in the story, the truth of the matter is far from settled until the very end.
Lots of surprises. Quite a number of twist and turns. A great deal of suspense delivered over and over!
While the story seems to center mostly on Harry, in this book everyone is not only available to help, but also an integral part of tracking down dangerous threats on the homefront and abroad.
The stories develop at a comfortable pace; each installment draws the team a little closer. We get to learn a little bit more about each character. And the reading is comfortable, generally believable, and intriguing enough to keep the reader coming back for more.
In my opinion, this was the best of the books so far. I am so encouraged that we have more to look forward to from these group of friends/investigators!
This is a cozy mystery series that I thoroughly enjoy!
All the usual characters are present for this latest installment of our hometown sleuths during World War II in Britain.
The book is certainly well researched, providing details that most folks would not be aware of, and make for startling and cleverly constructed diabolical aspirations on the part of the Nazis.
For the most part, the pacing is really good and the character development is spot on. We have some new characters introduced, which is done so effortlessly that it seems that they have always been a part of the storyline. There are several villains, and while some might appear suspect in the story, the truth of the matter is far from settled until the very end.
Lots of surprises. Quite a number of twist and turns. A great deal of suspense delivered over and over!
While the story seems to center mostly on Harry, in this book everyone is not only available to help, but also an integral part of tracking down dangerous threats on the homefront and abroad.
The stories develop at a comfortable pace; each installment draws the team a little closer. We get to learn a little bit more about each character. And the reading is comfortable, generally believable, and intriguing enough to keep the reader coming back for more.
In my opinion, this was the best of the books so far. I am so encouraged that we have more to look forward to from these group of friends/investigators!
This is a cozy mystery series that I thoroughly enjoy!
February 17, 2026
I once again have enjoyed this new Homefront Sleuths story. Once again, the Sleuths have to thwart another spy filled attempt at undermining the outcome of WWII. This time they uncover a plot to assassinate Eleanor Roosevelt.
Set at Valentine's Day it is a complicated plot involving microdot espionage, falsified marriage licences, and kidnapping set against a backdrop of A Valentines Wedding ceremony uniting Land Girls with their military beaus.
As always, the Sleuths work together and alone to sort out the multi-layered plot. There are plenty of thwarted ambushes and a a murder that gets solved at the end. What is as compelling as the story is how the main characters are evolving. Blake and Katherine are expecting a baby, Alice and Dorothy are getting more involved and Nigel and Evie are growing closer to each other and being ready to share their relationship with the rest of the group.
The biggest draw for me in this series is the well researched historical elements. While the events in these books are fictional, the historical perspective and explanations at the end make them even more of a good read.
Set at Valentine's Day it is a complicated plot involving microdot espionage, falsified marriage licences, and kidnapping set against a backdrop of A Valentines Wedding ceremony uniting Land Girls with their military beaus.
As always, the Sleuths work together and alone to sort out the multi-layered plot. There are plenty of thwarted ambushes and a a murder that gets solved at the end. What is as compelling as the story is how the main characters are evolving. Blake and Katherine are expecting a baby, Alice and Dorothy are getting more involved and Nigel and Evie are growing closer to each other and being ready to share their relationship with the rest of the group.
The biggest draw for me in this series is the well researched historical elements. While the events in these books are fictional, the historical perspective and explanations at the end make them even more of a good read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this series and appreciate the opportunity to read advance review copies. That said, I never rate and review a book unless I really like it. Everyone enjoys different things, and I would hate for someone to miss a book they would have liked, because I didn't like it, for whatever reason. So, if I didn't totally love this book and think other mystery readers would enjoy it, I wouldn't be writing a review.
This book is set in rural England during WWII. There are several "main characters" whose lives intersect in various ways. Each is unique, interesting and makes valuable contributions to the plot.
The plot involves Nazi spies with a plan to kill a famous American. There are many suspects, most of them innocent. Can the real threat be identified and neutralized in time?
I enjoyed this novel so much that I read it twice...once to look for typos and then, a few days later, just to enjoy the story in its final form. If you like clean historical mystery novels, I think you will enjoy this one.
This book is set in rural England during WWII. There are several "main characters" whose lives intersect in various ways. Each is unique, interesting and makes valuable contributions to the plot.
The plot involves Nazi spies with a plan to kill a famous American. There are many suspects, most of them innocent. Can the real threat be identified and neutralized in time?
I enjoyed this novel so much that I read it twice...once to look for typos and then, a few days later, just to enjoy the story in its final form. If you like clean historical mystery novels, I think you will enjoy this one.
February 4, 2026
It's been a minute. 14 years to be exact, since I last penned a book review. Goodreads tells me I've read over 1000 books since then; probably more. I thought it about time to revive the conversation -- not just consume the books, but share and talk about them.
First up...one of my favorite new cozy mystery series: The Homefront Sleuths.
From the dynamic father-daughter duo that brought us the Sherlock and Lucy series, this WWII countryside set is like a warm blanket on a cold day. It has just enough intrigue to keep you guessing, a smattering of romance, and vibrant, budding friendships.
So far, I have read up through The Valentine Cipher, which was one of my favorites. Romance is in the air, but so is espionage.
Evie, Nigel, Harry, and the crew always seem to have different pieces to the same puzzle. Part of the magic of this series is the way those pieces eventually fall into place in a non-forced, collaborative way. Every member of the team brings their unique talents and observations to create the whole (and stop the bad guy).
I love the way the friendships have blossomed and the characters bring out the best in one another -- especially the female friendships. I love the budding romance between
First up...one of my favorite new cozy mystery series: The Homefront Sleuths.
From the dynamic father-daughter duo that brought us the Sherlock and Lucy series, this WWII countryside set is like a warm blanket on a cold day. It has just enough intrigue to keep you guessing, a smattering of romance, and vibrant, budding friendships.
So far, I have read up through The Valentine Cipher, which was one of my favorites. Romance is in the air, but so is espionage.
Evie, Nigel, Harry, and the crew always seem to have different pieces to the same puzzle. Part of the magic of this series is the way those pieces eventually fall into place in a non-forced, collaborative way. Every member of the team brings their unique talents and observations to create the whole (and stop the bad guy).
I love the way the friendships have blossomed and the characters bring out the best in one another -- especially the female friendships. I love the budding romance between
January 5, 2026
This is the absolutely best book in the series! There were so many roads being traveled by the different Homefront sleuths. It was really a group effort. Only one missing most of the book was Bonzo. But fear not, no Homefront sleuths cannot be solved without the little guy.
As I mentioned, there are so many things going on but the storylines were merges fairly smoothly with one exception towards the end where the timelines got mixed up. Can't say more without any spoilers. But it did not distract from this being an excellent book.
And the next one sounds like it will be even more intense. Can't wait.
I received an ARC from the author. My review is both voluntary and honest. I love the series.
As I mentioned, there are so many things going on but the storylines were merges fairly smoothly with one exception towards the end where the timelines got mixed up. Can't say more without any spoilers. But it did not distract from this being an excellent book.
And the next one sounds like it will be even more intense. Can't wait.
I received an ARC from the author. My review is both voluntary and honest. I love the series.
January 13, 2026
The Homefront Sheuths are again involved in an intriguing story. Seven couples are to wed on Valentine's Day before the men go to war. All the sleuths are involved in their expert ways. A curate is found murdered who has been investigating slight discrepencies in the marriage certificates. A relic goes missing at the same time and to further cause concern, we discover that Eleanor Roosevelt will be paying a visit to Crofter's Green. Everyone is very involved in their own areas of expertise to bring the event to a happy conclusion without a major disaster. A very interesting and unputdownable story even if my furnaced died during one of the coldest period of the winter. Highly recommend.
January 17, 2026
2026 bk 4. Another delightful book in the Homefront Sleuths series. I love that we have an ensemble/a team of people working together as civilians to do their part to keep Britain safe. In this one the group is brought in on the periphery to a major Valentine's Day event where 7 couples, military/land girls/WS Volunteers are getting hitched in separate ceremonies, but on the same day and in the same place - an airbase hanger. But ugliness raises its head as the new vicar is murdered, the St. Valentine relic is stolen, the clues point to forged records, and a famous celebrity might be visiting. A finely woven mystery with just a teeny tiny clue to what will happen in the next book. Well done!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have to wonder if Evie is at all related to Ms. Seeton - as Nigel notes, Evie seems to attract trouble every half hour (just like Ms. Seeton). While Miss Marple made it clear in her polite and quiet way that English village life is not as pastoral or as peaceful as it appears, surely it cannot be this eventful, even in times of war! It is clear that the authors have done a lot of research to make this particular tale of mayhem, mystery and derring-do historically realistic and plausible. I highly recommend this to fans of Manning Coles.
I received an ARC from the authors and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the authors and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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January 3, 2026I absolutely l9ve the Homerown Sleuths series! It combines mystery with life lived in England during WWII. This particular book furthers the adventure of our intrepid sleuths who work to solve murder, kidnapping, attempted murder, a stolen relic, doctored records, and reunited lovers. Oh yes. Did I mention doing this all the while preparing for the visit of a very important VIP? This series is best enjoyed by starting at the beginning with The Blackout Murders which introduces this cast of characters who somehow stumble into and subsequently solve murders and mysteries. The books are very clean reads with alternating points of view that will keep you reading long into the night.
January 9, 2026
A favorite series.
I've read all of this series and it is a favorite that I look forward to reading. I grab my copy the same day the newest book comes out. The setting of a country village in England as WWII rages on is "homey" and comforting. The writer(s) have made the various characters into people we care about. They are what keep me coming back. And the addition of Alfie and Pilot was genius. I'm hoping they are involved in the series from now on. I will definitely be back to find out what happens to Evie, Nigel, Harry, and the rest of the "sleuths" as they fight against fascism. I'm marking my calendar now.
I've read all of this series and it is a favorite that I look forward to reading. I grab my copy the same day the newest book comes out. The setting of a country village in England as WWII rages on is "homey" and comforting. The writer(s) have made the various characters into people we care about. They are what keep me coming back. And the addition of Alfie and Pilot was genius. I'm hoping they are involved in the series from now on. I will definitely be back to find out what happens to Evie, Nigel, Harry, and the rest of the "sleuths" as they fight against fascism. I'm marking my calendar now.
March 27, 2026
Another great book in the Homefront Sleuths adventures. I tend to find historical fiction set in the framework of WWII fascinating, perhaps because my father was a pilot in the Army Air Corps or perhaps because it was a time when most people understood the significance of world events. These books are no exception. Well written with three-dimensional and full characters, the plots, while fictional, are historically based.
I appreciate how the authors give relevant historical notes and context at the end of each book. Since this chapter was set in February 1941 I can only hope that means we appreciative readers have many more books in this series before us.
I appreciate how the authors give relevant historical notes and context at the end of each book. Since this chapter was set in February 1941 I can only hope that means we appreciative readers have many more books in this series before us.
April 14, 2026
3.5 stars. I enjoyed the in depth look into the suspects, the assessment of their behaviour and actions, which felt more like a mystery than budget thriller which the past few books have been feeling like. I felt the sharing of the chapter perspectives was slightly better than previous books, and I enjoyed the return of a few supporting characters. I’m hoping the next book doesn’t have any kidnappings as they’re feeling a bit repetitive now, the same as Harry’s falling over in the first few books. The setting up of the next book was interesting, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for the audiobook release.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crofter’s Green, February 1942, It all startswith a stolen church relic and a murdered curate. But why was he killed and what is the connection to possible irregularities in marriage certificates of the seven couples who will marry on Valentine's Day. An added problem will be that they are to marry in front of a V.I.P. with the threat of Nazi spies in the area.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of very likeable and interesting characters living in this appealing village. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of very likeable and interesting characters living in this appealing village. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2026
As usual great storyline.
What a Valentine’s Day this will be, 7 couples are due to get married at the local air base. The local vicar is a stickler for getting all the paper work in order, and then he is murdered! One of the local brides to be is brutally attacked, her ex fiancee has chained himself to the local train line, and the. Then Evie is kidnapped. Nigel has an unexpected helper, a young boy and his dog are key to finding Evie when time is running out.
Oh and a hush, hush American VIP is on the hit list, if that helps.
What a Valentine’s Day this will be, 7 couples are due to get married at the local air base. The local vicar is a stickler for getting all the paper work in order, and then he is murdered! One of the local brides to be is brutally attacked, her ex fiancee has chained himself to the local train line, and the. Then Evie is kidnapped. Nigel has an unexpected helper, a young boy and his dog are key to finding Evie when time is running out.
Oh and a hush, hush American VIP is on the hit list, if that helps.
January 8, 2026
Amor Vincit Omnia
Love of country, love of doing what is right, love for a partner, for war orphans, and dogs. The love of a pastor for his people. We see it all in this book.
And all the exciting espionage we expect to see with the Homefront Sleuths. Spies abound, friends from high places reappear to help, new friends are found. Evie is, of course, kidnapped AGAIN, but we know Nigel will find her. Even Bonzo finds a new friend. And a guest appearance by an important historical figure. Enjoy!
Love of country, love of doing what is right, love for a partner, for war orphans, and dogs. The love of a pastor for his people. We see it all in this book.
And all the exciting espionage we expect to see with the Homefront Sleuths. Spies abound, friends from high places reappear to help, new friends are found. Evie is, of course, kidnapped AGAIN, but we know Nigel will find her. Even Bonzo finds a new friend. And a guest appearance by an important historical figure. Enjoy!
January 12, 2026
There’s going to be a time when you stumble across a cute little cozy mystery series and ask yourself, “should I read it?”
The answer is heck yes!
Things I love about this series:
THE CHARACTERS
Evie and Nigel
Bonzo
Found family
Short chapters
Historical fiction
Whodunnit that isn’t too predictable
Did I mention the characters?
Each character has their own strengths and are so likable; and when they come together, they’re unstoppable. Just love this series and so happy to see a 9th one has been added!
5 ⭐️
The answer is heck yes!
Things I love about this series:
THE CHARACTERS
Evie and Nigel
Bonzo
Found family
Short chapters
Historical fiction
Whodunnit that isn’t too predictable
Did I mention the characters?
Each character has their own strengths and are so likable; and when they come together, they’re unstoppable. Just love this series and so happy to see a 9th one has been added!
5 ⭐️
January 17, 2026
Another excellent book on the wartime exploits of Evie, Alice and Dorothy ( and the others ). The curate is murdered and the fact a relic is stolen from the church makes it look like a robbery gone wrong, but Harry is not convinced, as it looks like the curate had been worried about irregularities in the recording of marriages.
The Land Girls administrator is also worried about the number of girls all getting married at the same time.
The trail leads to spies and plans to upset the planned Valentine’s Day wedding celebrations.
The Land Girls administrator is also worried about the number of girls all getting married at the same time.
The trail leads to spies and plans to upset the planned Valentine’s Day wedding celebrations.
March 20, 2026
A well-crafted and entertaining mystery
This is a wonderful series. The characters are developed well, and the WWII setting is well-researched and adds great atmosphere. (Be sure and read the end notes concerning it,
which sorts out reality from fiction). I think the books could stand very well on their own, but it is such a great series you really should start the beginning so you can enjoy them all in order! Prepare for some intricately plotted fun. It’s such a lovely break from current events.
This is a wonderful series. The characters are developed well, and the WWII setting is well-researched and adds great atmosphere. (Be sure and read the end notes concerning it,
which sorts out reality from fiction). I think the books could stand very well on their own, but it is such a great series you really should start the beginning so you can enjoy them all in order! Prepare for some intricately plotted fun. It’s such a lovely break from current events.
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