An e book bargain-Who will suffer: Agony Hill (Sarah Stewart Taylor)

With Agony Hill, Ms. Taylor begins a new and compelling series. It follows on her recent four books that took place in both the States and Ireland. I had hoped that there would be a fifth title in the series that began with The Mountains Wild but sadly that is not to be (at least for now? I can hope).

That said, Agony Hill is a terrific series launch. I have so much admiration for how the author has created an entirely new world and set of characters in this story that takes place in Vermont in the 1960s.

Franklin Warren has relocated to rural Vermont where he will be a detective. It is clear from early on that he has a backstory and a life that has included some complications. Warren is glad to be in a new community. However, challenges come to him even on his very first day.

A “back to the land,” eccentric and difficult farmer by the name of Weber has died in a fire on his land. It appears that it may have been suicide as the door is locked from the inside of the building. (Of course, veteran mystery readers will know to not trust this). Hugh has left behind a young widow, four sons and a baby on the way. How will they manage? Has Hugh provided for them at all? Hugh’s brother certainly hopes not.

This becomes a case for Warren to investigate. There is also a second fire death early in the book. (no more spoilers here). It will be complex and interesting as events unfold.

While there are many characters in this story, another one to notice is Alice. She too has a history. Her life has not been limited to her beautiful gardens.

All in all, this was an absorbing story. I spent much time reading it instead of doing other things that may have needed doing.

Fans of this author and those new to her will both enjoy this one. Highly recommended.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press-Minotaur Books for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 06 August 2024

From Kirkus Reviews:

VERDICT The author of the Maggie D’arcy mysteries (A Stolen Child) launches a historical mystery series with a compassionate, vulnerable detective and a setting so vividly described it could be a character. Julia Spencer-Fleming fans will want to try this one.