I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House Publishing for the opportunity to read this early draft before publishing. False Witness is book 17 of the Abbott Agency mystery series, but is the first in the series for me. However, for a book late in a long series I had no trouble getting into it and following along. Apparently this was, while a separate story, a continuation of an earlier tale. But again, that did not prove to be a problem, in fact, I quite enjoyed it. The main character in the series, is a bit different from those in most other series that I have read. Bea Abbott is the owner of an employment agency, but with a talent for solving mysteries. The story takes place in a remote country estate, who's new owner is in the midst of some badly needed updates and repairs. However, as the estate is the main source of employment in the community, having it shut down even for necessary repairs does not go over well with some. In fact, there have been attempts on his life. It's a good dark cozy mystery, with very interesting characters and an array of possible culprits. I enjoyed the authors writing style which draws you smoothly along, a with a well described setting and good humor to go along with the engaging mystery. If you enjoy Agatha Christie style mysteries you will enjoy this book.

The Darker Side..
The seventeenth in the Bea Abbot Agency mystery series and a perplexing case for Bea. Something nefarious is afoot at Marston Hall - but what and who exactly is behind it? Another engaging and immersive mystery with a deftly drawn and credible cast, a well imagined backdrop and a puzzling plot. Always edging on the darker side of cosy, this is yet another satisfying entry to this long running and most enjoyable series.

The restoration of a stately home takes a deadly turn in this gripping new Bea Abbot mystery.

Bea Abbot is called in when yet another attempt is made on Julian's life and the corpse of a woman is
found in the stables at the Hall.

I really enjoyed this latest installment. I couldn't put the book down.

I love the characters.  Brilliant series!