An ancient house with secrets to disclose, a string of murders with no clear motive and an enigma fit for a great detective.England, 1928. When Lord Edgington and his young apprentice Christopher are called to investigate a simple theft at a grand Elizabethan estate, they are soon embroiled in a mystery involving priceless antiques, ancient myths and unscrupulous academics. But when people at Parham House are killed off apparently at random, the detectives must tackle a puzzle that may be impossible to solve.
Faced with a cast of suspects including a roguish archaeologist, a pair of ambitious twins, an expert on ancient weapons and the world’s most boring man, the master sleuth struggles to find the answer. Will his assistant step in to crack “The Puzzle of Parham House” or will more people die before the killer completes his elusive scheme?
The new book in the bestselling “Lord Edgington Investigates…” series of warm, funny and endlessly twisty whodunits is a spoiler-free mystery which can be read as a standalone novel.
Writing has always been my passion. It was my favourite hour a week at primary school, and I started on my first, truly abysmal book as a teenager. So it wasn’t a difficult decision to study literature at university which led to an MA in Creative Writing. I spent a long time writing kids’ books, including funny fairy tales, dystopic adventures and serious issue-based YA, before switching to murder mysteries last year.
I grew up in a crime fiction family and spent a long time dreaming up the idea for my detective Izzy Palmer’s debut novel. A Corpse Called Bob is my first full-length book for adults in what is already becoming a long series.
I’m a Welsh-Irish-Englishman originally from South London but now living with my French/Spanish wife and slightly muddled daughter in Burgos, a beautiful city in the north of Spain. I write overlooking the Castilian countryside, trying not to be distracted by the vultures and red kites that fly past my window each day.
I believe I will pull the plug on this series as I did not enjoy this latest one and probably enjoyed the earlier ones in the series far better due to Christopher's age.
1928. A request from Elizabethan Parham Park owner Alicia Pearson, results in Lord Edgington and entourage arriving to hopeful solve some strange incidents. But soon there is a death. But that will not be the last. An entertaining historical mystery with its likeable main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
No long review here being still thinking of all the answers that came after finding the killer. Or were they just a puzzle unsolved. Christy did wonders I'm quite proud he was allowed to shine in this mystery like his Grandfather does. Here's a thought I had tho it's probably very ridiculous. What if 12 yr old Veronica when in a few years becomes reacquainted with her young hero & different kinds of sparks fly between them. It just a what if I mean. You'll be extremely happy you read this amazing book so you should! For me I had a time where things in the book moved so slowly that I had a hard time picking it up again to read several times. Outside influences did that to me, & they were extremely hard to be able to carry on in anything it still is. This book help get thru them easier when my reading picked up. So thankful for that distraction I can't even say. Still it was a bang up great read barring any outside things interfering in it. Enjoy!
Lord Edgington and Chrissy are at it again. They are called to Parham House to help solve a puzzle. But while they are trying to figure out what is going on, the bodies start dropping. Now the clock is ticking to solve the mystery before anyone else gets hurt. I'm excited to see Chrissy taking a more solid role and exercising his skills he has learned from his grandfather, even if he is still a little unsure of himself. All our favorite characters are here, along with some interesting new ones that make great suspects in this quick who done it read. Highly recommend!
Who is responsible for these strange goings on at this stately home!
When Lord Edgington’s daughter receives a letter from her friend asking for help, she, Lord Edgington and her son Christopher, together with a few from his household,set out to help. The situation they meet is bewildering. The recent purchase of many items from a collection owned by former Parham House residents brings with it a collection of ‘experts’ to examine all items to see if they are genuine. This group is indeed a strange and motley crew. Why is the great detective seemingly not able to concentrate effectively? As the odd thefts -which may be only pranks -become more weird, and then deadly, the relationships between the experts become more peculiar. The solutions to the mysteries will thoroughly intrigue readers! As always, the author provides us with fascinating information about the place and the owners, which in itself , a worthwhile read. Words in use in that time are also interesting. Do yourself a favour and immerse yourself in Lord Edgington,s latest outing.
Double mystery! Bonus! There's an unwritten agreement between a reader and their time and an author and their book! I'll give you my time and read your book but in turn your book needs to be worth my time! EVERY book by Benedict Brown delivers on that agreement with a page turning, jaw dropping mystery!........or two! Kudos yet again! I loved the inclusion of Christopher's mother in the investigative process as well as the background of her youth as a daughter of Lord Edgington. The staff is always a welcome diversion for the reader too......most unique characters in Edgington's entourage. The old case file that Christopher was given to solve was a solid means of establishing his credibility as an investigator and raises his maturity level. An excellent read! Can't wait till the next mystery!l Plus ...another added feature to the book is the section of historical facts which is amazing to read!
Number 13 is a very lucky number indeed for Benedict Brown.
The thirteenth installment of the Lord Edgington and Chrissy series is an adventure well worth taking. I have loved every single book in this series from book one to book twelve. I believe this latest installment may well be my favorite of all. Watching Chrissy grow from a timid fledgling sleuth into a somewhat confident young detective, under his grandfather unorthodox tutelage, has been an engaging tale. Through this series I have become invested in the lives of Lord E, plus his "merry band of misfits," until they feel as though they have become my family. As always Benedict keeps you guessing until the end. I always think I have it all figured out until the reveal. Then he twists the knife one more time and blows me out of the water. I have yet to solve the mystery and I love it. Bravo Mr. Brown. As long as you keep writing, I will keep reading and trying to hone my sleuthing skills.
I loved this mystery. Lord Edgington, bored at home accepts the invitation to help his daughter's friend discover who is moving items around in her home. The family ends up with more than a thief to worry about as the murders begin. In this edition we find the genius Lord slightly off his game and Chrissy turning into a clever young detective. It is fun to watch Chrissy discovering more about his own talents and growing in confidence. This is the first book that the characters (or most of them) recognized the young man as an adult, and Chrissy also begins to feel that he is leaving some of his childhood behind. The mystery is well written and reads quickly. The mystery will keep one guessing. It is hard to put down. It is a delight to read and I recommend it to all cozy mystery lovers with a little warning, the books are addicting!
Benedict Brown has an amazing talent for writing historical mysteries. The Puzzle of Parham House is another mystery that once again kept me guessing. Lord Edgington and Chrissy are drawn into a mystery that starts with missing objects and turns into a murder investigation. Benedict Brown includes enough red herrings to keep the plot engaging and to keep me trying, but not succeeding, to figure out who the guilty party was.
I love how he has Chrissy develop his detective skills by doing most of the investigating and ultimately solving the murders.
Benedict Brown has a great gift for writing characters that are so wonderfully realistic that I wish I could actually meet and share one of Cook's exotic meals with.
Yet another good reason to wait impatiently for the next book in this series. The ever fabulous team of Lord Edgington and Chrissy with his Mother, Delilah and numerous staff and vehicles decamp to Parham house in the painstakingly perilous renovation process to almost original condition There friends, children, clever clogs, staff and animals run amok in games, skulduggery and investigation take control as a killer is on the loose with locally sourced weapons of lethal longevity usually found as decorations. Thank you for your words Benedict Brown, very much appreciated as always. :-)
I really, really utterly adore the Lord Edgington novels, and this book in the series is a real treat. Christopher is no longer the kid he was in the beginning, but still young, impatient, uncertain of himself, and downright sarcastic. I adore him, he made me laugh numerous times in this novel. The scenery was also a real treat: an intriguing home filled with lots of, well,a rather strange set of people. I tried real hard to solve the mystery before Chrissy did, but failed to do so. Well done, Mr. Brown!
As always, with Christopher Prentiss and the great Lord Edgington on the case, there are always twists and unexpected turns in the story. I was quite surprised at the ending and had read all the clues incorrectly. Although, there were lots of red herrings like most good mysteries need to do. Benedict Brown does an awesome job writing historical fiction and makes me want to meet Christopher and Lord Edgington! I will eagerly be waiting for the next installment this fall!
Fantastic! Chrissy has solved the case and before his esteemed grandfather. I love these books particularly because Christopher is learning. He is no longer the innocent, taking everything a face value, but has learnt to question everything, even to the point of silliness sometimes. He is growing into the role his grandfather is tutoring him in and becoming a good man through it. Lots more please!
I have read every “Lord Edgington Investgates” available. With each story I find myself reading to discover the culprit and their devious actions. I truly appreciate the wit and dedication to detail the Benedict Brown uses when writing. I have come to look forward to the interactions of the characters and can’t wait to read more. Whether the reader is looking for mystery, historical knowledge or just a pleasant read they will not be disappointed!
In this Lord Edgington mystery, his grandson, Christoper, takes center stage and comes into his own as they try to solve the mysterious doings at Parham House. Christopher comes into his own as he uncovers the murderer and with his grandfather solves the mysterious doings in the house.
I think it will soon be Christopher Prentiss Inverstigates
Chrissy is growing up and seems to have taken the lead in this on. He does have the assistance of both his famous grandfather and mother as well as the young ladies of Parham House. I enjoyed the full cast of possible villains that kept Chrissy & me guessing.
I have truly enjoyed the Lord Edgington mysteries and Chrissy. The stories are very entertaining,the characters are great, especially Chrissy. He's growing up. I still have not figured out the killers in the stories before Lord Edgington and Chrissy. Looking forward to the next mystery.
This story really is a puzzle - complex and noteworthy. You may have all the pieces but putting them together in the correct order is a challenge few may conquer. As the King of Siam would say "Is a puzzlement." Highly Recommended.
As ever Benedict has crafted an intriguing puzzle. Christopher really comes into his own in this book and we are left with an unanswered question. What is “Todd’s” full name?
I allay enjoy Lord Edgington’s and Christoffer’s investigations. This one though had so many characters and twists that at some parts I was a bit confused but anyway it was great. Thank you for creating these wonderful characters.
Mr. Brown uses his writing in a most disruptive manner. The plot, the plot twist, the emotion suspence, I thought were exceptional. Chris is now coming to his own, with humility.
Fantastic! Already this one I've read twice - it's that Good!!! Excellent intriguing characters, lovely setting, mesmerizing detail - plenty of dangerous moments - murder to solve! This series is - Yes, I will say it - Un-put downable!!! Thank you dear Author!
Chrissy is reviewing an old case that his grandfather, Lord Edgington, had given him to try to solve. While looking for a quiet place to do his reading, he bumped into his mother, Violet Prentiss. She is somewhat concerned after receiving a letter from a long-time friend, Alicia Pearson. Alicia is remodeling and restoring her home. She has noticed several items being rearranged and is concerned that somebody is planning to steal something valuable. Alicia asks Violet and her father, Lord Edgington to look into the situation. It seems that some of the people working on the restoration don't get along very well. Initially, Lord Edgington seems to be somewhat distracted until the untimely death of a security guard throws a wrench into the case. Lord Edgington is looking to see if Chrissy can resolve the mystery.
Who killed the security guard? Why was he killed? Are others in danger? Can Chrissy sort through all the lies and accusations to unravel the mystery? Or will he need Lord Edgington's help to solve the case?
Benedict Brown has created a wonderful story to show how Christopher has grown under his grandfather's guidance. The story is less focused on the murder and more on unraveling the mystery of the shifting antiques, which adds an extra dimension to the story.
Benedict Brown loves to write, and write, and write . . .
And I love nearly everything he publishes.
“Parham House” is another great read, and I strongly recommend it. But I do suggest that if you enjoy this work, you considered starting at the beginning of the series.
One scene mystified me, however, actually to the point where I re-read several sections before that one to try to understand what Brown meant by including this seeming non-sequitur. (If I describe it in any detail, it might be considered a spoiler.)
I can only assume, after reading Brown’s seemingly never-ending epilogue, that the scene is “a wink and a nod” to a famous literary and cinematic cliche.
Such references only work, I think, if such the reader doesn’t have to struggle to discover to understand. But maybe I’m the only reader who was mystified.
Anyway, great book, but Mr Brown, it’s time for a new “author’s photograph.” The one of you holding two early Izzy books is so 2020 😊.
This is an excellent historical cozy murder mystery, so well written and so historically accurate in regards to the facts surrounding the properties involved in this mystery. The array of familiar and new characters are vibrant, colorful and quirky but of course this wouldn't be a murder mystery without a deadly schemer hidden within plain sight. Though Christopher,Lord Eddington and the rest may draw you in it is the plot that will entice you to stay and continue to turn intriguing page after intriguing page, the factual education in Britain's history without fuss adding to the tale. Each chapter bringing more intrigue than the last taking you into a rabbit hole of unstable intent until before you know it you've reached its quite unexpected and climatic conclusion. Once I began reading this cozy mystery I couldn't put it down and read right through to the end with anticipation of what was to happen next it was so captivating. Acquire " The Puzzle of Parham House " ( A 1920s Mystery ) for hours of intriguing, informative and enjoyable entertainment. Kat
A consistently good series! This book has a host of interesting and unique characters, in residence at a large manor house where peculiar things are happening - items moving about and suchlike, unnerving the lady of the house, a friend of Christopher's mother. Almost all of these characters come under suspicion as the watchman is discovered dead. Young daughters enliven the action, and Christopher - at age 19 - is quite grown now and working hard at detecting. Lots going on here, and you will love it as you follow the action and enjoy the great description and atmosphere. - I received a review copy and freely leave this honest review.
Benedict Brown’ books are always interesting and amusing! I’m surprised to find that after reading a number of them I’m able to predict the culprit-but not always his/her motive! I love history which makes his narrative at the end of the books, detailing what he learned when researching the book (almost) as interesting as the book! I will absolutely continue to read this series! Let me just say, if you’re not signed up for this author’s newsletter, you should sign up immediately!
I didn't enjoy this one as much as usual. It had a lot of promise but it felt a bit rushed. The editing was also not as sharp as some of the other books in this series. Overall a decent read and I do still very much enjoy the characters in this series, I'm just getting a bit impatient with how formulaic it's becoming. I need Chrissy and Lord Edgington to go on their European tour already.
I love reading books in the season they are set in, and especially when they reference pagan markers of the year. You can never go wrong with a Lord Edginton and Chrissy Prentice mystery. Perfect spring evening read!