MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW
In "Murder at Merewood Hospital," Michelle Salter skillfully transports readers to the aftermath of the Great War, where the scars of battle are still fresh, and a new danger lurks within the walls of Merewood Farm. Set against the backdrop of a quaint Hampshire village, this cozy crime novel unfolds with an atmospheric blend of historical richness and suspense.
The story opens in 1916, introducing Sister Helen Hopgood, a dedicated nurse tasked with caring for wounded soldiers at Merewood Farm, a temporary military hospital. Fast forward to 1919, and the war is over, leaving behind only five remaining patients in Helen's care. As the last ward faces closure, the shadows of the past loom large, and the specter of Nurse Taplin's murder casts a chilling aura over Merewood Manor.
Joseph Wintringham, facing the necessity of selling the farm to save Merewood Manor, finds himself entangled in local superstitions and rumors. The belief in a curse, whether tied to Nurse Taplin or the war's tragic aftermath, adds a layer of intrigue that propels the narrative forward. As unnatural deaths unfold on Midsummer's Night, the suspense builds, and the question of whether the hospital is haunted or if a tangible threat exists becomes the crux of the mystery.
Salter's narrative is steeped in historical detail, immersing readers in the post-war era with authenticity. The characters, particularly Sister Helen, are well-drawn, each carrying their own burdens and secrets. The cozy crime genre, with its focus on community and character dynamics, is expertly woven into the historical context, providing a satisfying blend of intrigue and period atmosphere.
The plot unfolds with a measured pace, allowing readers to savor the rich tapestry of the setting and characters. The mystery at the heart of the novel is compelling, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged until the final revelation. Helen's quest to uncover the truth adds an emotional depth to the story, making her a relatable and determined protagonist.
"Murder at Merewood Hospital" is a captivating addition to the cozy crime genre, offering readers a well-crafted mystery with historical resonance. Michelle Salter's ability to seamlessly merge the post-war setting, mysterious deaths, and a touch of the supernatural makes for an engrossing read. For fans of historical cozy mysteries, this novel delivers a satisfying blend of suspense, period detail, and a compelling whodunit.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for an advance copy for my honest review.
BOOK DESCRIPTION
The patients survived the Great War only to face a new danger…
In 1916, Sister Helen Hopgood was sent with a team of nurses to care for wounded soldiers at Merewood Farm, a temporary military hospital in Hampshire.
Now the war is over, only five patients remain – and she is the only nurse. The last ward must close, and Helen is doing all she can to find new homes for the injured servicemen.
Joseph Wintringham has to sell the farm to keep Merewood Manor. But since the murder of Nurse Taplin, locals believe the place is cursed - perhaps by the doomed nurse or by the patients who perished from their war wounds.
Is the hospital haunted? Or is someone very real behind the unnatural deaths that begin on Midsummer’s Night 1919?
Can Helen discover the truth before it’s too late..?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MICHELLE SALTER
Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/MurderHospitalSocial
Author Bio –
Michelle Salter writes historical cosy crime set in Hampshire, where she lives, and inspired by real-life events in 1920s Britain. The first book in her Iris Woodmore series, Death at Crookham Hall, draws on her interest in the aftermath of the Great War and the suffragette movement.
Social Media Links –
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleSalterWriter
Twitter https://twitter.com/MichelleASalter
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michellesalter_writer/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MichelleSalterNews
Bookbub profile: Michelle Salter Books - BookBub
Publication Date: 14th January 2024
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