IN FARLEIGH FIELD by Rhys Bowen

IN FARLEIGH FIELD by Rhys Bowen was a perfect read for Spring break. I had saved it as a "treat" since Rhys Bowen (author of The Constable Evans mysteries and The Royal Spyness series, plus many more featuring Molly Murphy) is a favorite mystery writer of mine. The time period for her latest is the early 1940’s, during WWII when England is feeling the effects of rationing and sustained bombardment.  Three longtime friends are the main characters (and part of a love triangle): Lady Pamela Sutton, third daughter of the Earl of Westerham; Jeremy Prescott, daredevil RAF flyer and son of a well-to-do businessman; and Ben Cresswell, the vicar’s son, now working for MI5, military intelligence.

Unbeknownst to the others or her family (Official Secrets Act and all that), Lady Pamela works at Bletchley Park helping to break codes. IN FARLEIGH FIELD provides an inviting mix of menacing danger and young people who desperately want to be patriotic while also finding ways to forget the war and enjoy life. Throughout the scenes in London and the British countryside, there is much suspense and action – concern about German spies and their possible local contacts adds to the mystery. At some point, the three friends reunite at Farleigh Place, the Westerham family estate in Kent, and the action builds quickly. Bowen’s writing skills have been recognized with multiple Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity awards and IN FARLEIGH FIELD is also sure to please mystery and historical fiction fans. Highly Recommended.

ON TURPENTINE LANE by Elinor Lipman was another title that I eagerly anticipated.  In fact, I remember being surprised by how much I liked The Inn at Lake Devine when I read that Elinor Lipman work (could it have been almost 20 years ago?!). ON TURPENTINE LANE, however, just didn’t hold my attention.  Maybe it’s because I am tired of reading about women who seem unable to deal with making adult decisions and taking charge of their own lives.  Here, Faith Frankel struggles to separate from a non-supportive fiancé, Stuart, who is walking across the United States at a slow pace and seemingly visiting many of his past girlfriends. Faith decides to buy the “doll house” at 10 Turpentine Lane despite rumors of someone dying there and misgivings from an inspector (again, why?) and is at risk of losing her fundraising job due to a misunderstanding over a large donation. Of course, since Lipman is the author there are many funny moments. Pick this up if you are looking for the diversion of a very light, silly read with a bit of mystery and romance.