The Saint Mary's Cipher by Anna Elliott & Charles Veley


The Homefront Sleuths are at it again, this time with their own church on the line. While Evie and Nigel travel on a dangerous over-channel mission to rescue an old ally, it's up to Harry and the rest of the gang to keep Crofter's Green safe from a bomb threat. 

One of the things I love most about this series is the way multiple perspectives and clues all seem to meld into one story in the end. For some reason, this one just never quite came together the same way for me. The team seemed to lack their normal cohesion and the plot felt a little disjointed. In some ways, I almost felt that Harry and Nigel swapped roles; and the ladies (except Evie, of course) seemed more ornamental than useful in this case. 

Nigel and Evie continued to be my favorite power duo, but Katherine and Blake felt a little flat this time. I loved the addition of Alfie's perspective. As usual, the vast historical knowledge was on full display, but not in an overwhelming or unnatural way. Any visit to Crofter's Green is a good one, and I'm hoping the next case brings back the old vibes. 

The Saint Mary's Cipher: ★★★★

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