Kate Shackleton by Frances Brody
The Kate Shackleton by Frances Brody is a captivating series of historical cozy mysteries set in 1920s England. The series follows Kate Shackleton, a World War I widow turned private investigator, as she solves complex cases in the picturesque Yorkshire countryside. With her sharp mind, determination, and the help of her ex-policeman assistant Jim Sykes, Kate navigates a world filled with secrets, lies, and murder.
Publication Order of Kate Shackleton Books
- Dying in the Wool (2009)
- A Medal for Murder (2010)
- Murder in the Afternoon (2011)
- A Woman Unknown (2012)
- Murder on a Summer’s Day (2013)
- Death of an Avid Reader (2014)
- A Death in the Dales (2015)
- Death at the Seaside (2016)
- Death in the Stars (2017)
- A Snapshot of Murder (2018)
- The Body on the Train (2019)
- Murder is in the Air (2020)
- A Mansion for Murder (2022)
Dying in the Wool (2009)
Kate Shackleton’s sleuthing career begins when her friend Tabitha asks her to find her missing father, Joshua Braithwaite, who vanished years ago. As Kate delves into the mystery, she uncovers secrets about the Braithwaite family and the local mill. This debut novel introduces Kate’s intelligence and resourcefulness, setting the stage for her future investigations.
A Medal for Murder (2010)
Kate is hired to investigate a pawn shop robbery, but the case takes a dark turn when a murder occurs at a local theater. As she uncovers connections between the robbery, the murder, and a kidnapping, Kate must untangle a web of deceit. This book showcases Kate’s growing confidence as a detective.
Murder in the Afternoon (2011)
When a young woman’s husband is found dead in a quarry, she turns to Kate for help. The case becomes personal as Kate uncovers family secrets and confronts her own past. This installment is a gripping tale of betrayal and redemption.
A Woman Unknown (2012)
Kate is drawn into a case involving a mysterious woman found dead in a hotel. As she investigates, she uncovers a scandal that could ruin lives. This book is a compelling mix of mystery and social commentary.
Murder on a Summer’s Day (2013)
Kate is called to investigate the disappearance of an Indian prince during a hunting trip. When his body is discovered, Kate must navigate cultural tensions and political intrigue to solve the case. This novel is rich in historical detail and atmosphere.
Death of an Avid Reader (2014)
Kate is hired to find a missing heiress, but the case takes a sinister turn when a body is found in a library. As Kate uncovers the truth, she must confront the darker side of human nature. This book is a must-read for fans of classic mysteries.
A Death in the Dales (2015)
Kate visits the Yorkshire Dales to recover from a previous case, but her holiday is interrupted by a decades-old murder. As she investigates, she uncovers secrets that have haunted the village for years. This installment is a beautifully written tale of love and loss.
Death at the Seaside (2016)
Kate’s trip to the seaside takes a deadly turn when a jeweler is murdered. As she investigates, she uncovers a smuggling operation and a tangled web of lies. This book is a delightful mix of mystery and seaside charm.
Death in the Stars (2017)
During a solar eclipse, a famous singer dies under mysterious circumstances. Kate must uncover the truth while navigating the glamorous world of show business. This novel is a fascinating blend of science, superstition, and suspense.
A Snapshot of Murder (2018)
Kate joins a photography group on a trip to the countryside, but the outing turns deadly when one of the members is murdered. As Kate investigates, she uncovers hidden rivalries and dark secrets. This book is a clever and engaging mystery.
The Body on the Train (2019)
Kate is called to investigate a murder on a train carrying goods to London. As she delves into the case, she uncovers a conspiracy involving food shortages and political unrest. This novel is a gripping tale of intrigue and deception.
Murder is in the Air (2020)
Kate investigates the death of a brewery worker during a local festival. As she uncovers the truth, she must navigate the complexities of small-town life. This book is a charming and atmospheric mystery.
A Mansion for Murder (2022)
Kate receives a mysterious letter that leads her to a grand mansion with a dark history. When a man is found dead, Kate must unravel the secrets of the past to solve the case. This novel is a fitting conclusion to the series, filled with twists and turns.
Why You’ll Love Kate Shackleton
The Kate Shackleton Mysteries series is perfect for fans of historical fiction and cozy mysteries. Kate is a smart, independent, and relatable protagonist, and her investigations are both intriguing and satisfying. Frances Brody’s vivid descriptions of 1920s England bring the setting to life, making each book a delightful escape into the past.
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