Murder at Primrose Cottage (Flora Steele Mystery #3,) by Merryn Allingham

"The mystery had grown too intriguing to be given up to the police."

That thought from main character Flora Steele could probably describe how many amateur sleuths feel, not just regarding the police but often about those who would also protect them. In this case, Flora, whose imagination is vivid -- I agree with Jack, she should be writing a novel -- also has a tendency to keep things from Jack and venture out alone into potentially dangerous situations, even after being warned away by the area witch. Oddly enough, though I wanted to sit Flora down and have a chat with her about common sense, I liked Flora and was immediately drawn into the story.

The plot has two main story lines, past and present, which seem to weave in and out of each other as the story progresses. Do remember, however, that police procedures and expectations were obviously much more lax in 1956, which is when the story takes place, than they are now. Let's just say, at one point I found myself wanting to yell at Flora and Jack not to disturb a crime scene as they merrily wandered about, forcing open a gate they were then sure the murderer must have used, possibly trampling the murderer's tracks, and later failing to report a break-in in a timely fashion. Yes, things have changed.

Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am already looking forward to the next. If you like engaging mysteries, especially ones that take place in England, and have an interest in the history of the world wars, you will find this book an intriguing read. There's even the hint of romance. Author Merryn Allingham also has a way with words. I hope to read more of them soon.

Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for letting me spend some time in the English countryside with Flora and Jack while they track down a murderer.