Witch’s Lawn is an absolute delight—an elegant blend of historical intrigue, contemporary mystery, and character‑driven charm. Nick Churton crafts a story that feels both timeless and fresh, anchored by a heroine who is impossible not to adore.

Eliza Arrow is a standout. A former spy enjoying her twilight years in a secluded Chilterns estate, she’s sharp, witty, and wonderfully formidable. When a sudden claim from the Church of England threatens her ancestral home, Eliza refuses to fade quietly into retirement. Instead, she steps back into detective mode with a spark that makes the whole novel sing.

Her unlikely team—fearless cleric Dimity Fortuna and the ever‑capable Felix Bohlin—adds warmth, humour, and just the right amount of tension. Their dynamic is lively and engaging, and watching them unravel centuries‑old clues hidden in 16th‑century sonnets is pure fun.

The historical thread is beautifully woven, revealing the Arrow family’s surprising role in key moments of English history. Churton balances the past and present with ease, letting each discovery deepen the mystery without overwhelming the story’s charm.

What really elevates the novel is its atmosphere. Witch’s Lawn itself feels alive with secrets, and the Chiltern Hills setting adds a gentle, almost magical quality. As the trio races to protect Eliza’s legacy, the stakes rise in ways that are both clever and emotionally satisfying.

Warm, witty, and wonderfully plotted, Witch’s Lawn is a delightful mystery perfect for readers who love history, hidden clues, and characters with real heart.

with thanks to Nick Churton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC