Murder at the Parsonage

A Sinister Secret in Thistlebrook Hollow

Murder at the Parsonage unveils a tale of intrigue and suspense in the charming village of Thistlebrook Hollow. Dirk Volcano’s inaugural entry in the Village Detective series sets a high bar for cosy mysteries everywhere.

The Unpopular Brigadier

Brigadier Gimlet was hardly the toast of Thistlebrook Hollow. With few friends and many detractors, his sudden demise at the Parsonage brings shockwaves, but not many tears. The true conundrum lies in the vast pool of potential culprits. Who among the villagers could be responsible for such a heinous act?

Whispers and Suspicions

Gossip spreads like wildfire through the village’s cobblestone streets, from the parlours to the bustling kitchens. Rumors and finger-pointing abound, making it challenging to discern truth from fiction. In this web of deceit and suspicion, there’s one person uniquely qualified to bring clarity.

The Incomparable Biddy Apple

Enter Biddy Apple, Thistlebrook Hollow’s retired headmistress, known for her sharp mind and keen sense of observation. With her unparalleled detective skills, she takes on the task of solving a mystery that has the entire village on edge. Can Biddy’s expertise shine a light on the shadowy secrets of Thistlebrook and uncover the identity of the killer?

Dive into this enthralling mystery to discover the hidden depths of a seemingly tranquil village. Ready for a tale of suspense, wit, and astute detective work? 

Delve into Murder at the Parsonage and enjoy this captivating journey for free on Kindle Unlimited.

The air was crisp and the skies clear as dawn broke over Thistlebrook Hollow. Birds serenaded the awakening village with their sweet songs. The houses, made of age-old stone and thatch, came to life one by one as the villagers prepared for another day in their idyllic hamlet.

Biddy Apple, a woman of petite stature with a mop of curly silver hair, adjusted her spectacles and took a sip of her morning tea. The warm steam enveloped her face, and the aroma of bergamot wafted gently through her cozy kitchen. The local newspaper lay open in front of her, but her thoughts were far away, remembering her years as headmistress. Each student, each memory, each lesson, they all played their part in shaping the razor-sharp deductive skills she possessed today.

A sudden knock on her front door jolted her back to the present. It was an odd hour for a visitor, especially in Thistlebrook Hollow where neighbors respected routines. Setting down her cup, Biddy made her way to the door. She opened it to find Mrs. Florence Maple, a stout woman known for her prowess in the kitchen, standing there with a frantic look in her eyes.

“Biddy,” she gasped, “it’s the Brigadier. He’s been… he’s been murdered!”

Biddy’s heart missed a beat. Brigadier Gimlet? Dead? True, he wasn’t the most beloved resident, but who in Thistlebrook Hollow could commit murder?

“Where?” was all Biddy managed to ask, keeping her voice steady.

“In the Parsonage,” Mrs. Maple replied, wringing her apron. “The vicar found him this morning!”

The Parsonage, a beautiful Tudor home overlooking the village green, had always been a symbol of peace. The idea that it could be the site of such a violent act was unfathomable.

Biddy quickly donned her coat. “Florence, go inform the constable. I’ll head to the Parsonage.”

As Biddy walked briskly towards the Parsonage, she couldn’t help but think of the Brigadier. His gruff manner, sharp tongue, and unwelcome opinions had alienated many. But who among the villagers had been provoked to the point of murder?

Reaching the Parsonage, Biddy was met by the vicar, Reverend Samuel Witherspoon. His usual calm demeanor replaced by shock. “Biddy,” he murmured, “I never thought I’d see the day when Thistlebrook Hollow would be tarnished by such a crime.”

Biddy nodded, her keen eyes already scanning the scene. “Let’s get to the bottom of this, Reverend. We owe it to Thistlebrook Hollow.”

And so, in the heart of a peaceful village, began an investigation that would unveil dark secrets and test the bonds of a tight-knit community.