When the villagers of Thistlebrook open their morning newspapers, they’re met with a headline that sends a shiver down their spines: A Murder is Published. It’s not just any headline—it’s an ominous invitation to a mystery about to unfold before their very eyes. The chilling news promises a crime that will soon come to light, thrusting the quiet village into the centre of a real-life whodunit.
All eyes turn to Miss Hamshank’s grand but mysterious estate. Known for her reclusive nature and the secrets she keeps within her sprawling mansion, Miss Hamshank suddenly finds herself at the centre of a storm. Villagers, both curious and anxious, gather near her doorstep, drawn by the headline’s dark promise and the prospect of uncovering a sinister truth. The atmosphere thickens with tension as they anticipate what they might find behind the heavy oak doors.
In the midst of the rising uncertainty, Thistlebrook’s finest sleuth, Biddy Apple, steps up to face the challenge. The sharp-witted retired headmistress has already solved her fair share of the village’s most perplexing mysteries, but this time, the stakes are even higher. With a crime yet to be fully committed, Biddy must rely on her instincts and experience to untangle a twisted plot, identify the potential victim, and stop the killer before it’s too late.
As Biddy delves into the secrets hidden behind Miss Hamshank’s walls, she encounters a tangle of old rivalries, unexpected alliances, and layers of deception. The villagers, each with their own quirks and potential motives, become pieces of a complex puzzle. The tension grows, and Biddy must navigate a maze of red herrings and cryptic clues to discover who is behind the chilling headline and why they chose to announce their intentions so boldly.
‘A Murder is Published’ is a captivating cosy mystery that weaves suspense, charm, and the intrigue of village life. With Dirk Volcano’s vivid portrayal of Thistlebrook and Biddy Apple’s blend of wit, warmth, and tenacity, readers are taken on an exhilarating journey. Will Biddy solve the mystery before the final act is played out, or will the killer’s plan succeed under the cover of the village’s curiosity? Find out in this thrilling new chapter of the Village Detective series—available now on Kindle Unlimited.