This was one my first mystery novels I've read in a long time. I use to read Nancy Drew, but this book was different. This book was very slow at first. It was hard to grasp on what was going on until I really got into the book. I don't know if it was because it was set in 1940s England causing the issue for me or if it was the writing style, but I got through it.

What's it about?

We meet Detective Drew Farthering on a rainy evening with his wife reading to him from Jane Eyre, when old friend Beaky Bloodworth shows up with a mystery murder of the church's Vicar, who was found dead on the steps of the old church. We soon find out there are many suspects in the Moor and no one is left unscathed. We even suspect Beaky's wife, Sabrina, due to her presumptuous ways. In the end, you will never guess who the murder ends up to be, but I'm not telling. :-) You'll just have to pick a copy of it up for yourself at these fine retailers or at your local library.
Did the book meet your expectations?

It was decent, but like I mentioned I got lost a few times and it was getting confusing. The chapters were very long at times and I felt like I was never getting though the book. :-( If you like mysteries, it was pretty good; a lot of suspects and you can't ever decide who you think the murderer is. The author keeps you guessing. I liked that and it was an easy read. It was just probably something I'm not exactly interested in reading. I'm more of a love story or exciting novel person. I love detective shows, but the books I'm not so sure.

I was given the book for my honest review and opinion through the publisher.

RATING: 4 STARS
​(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY​)​
(Review Not on Blog)

I love this series! It reminds me of Agatha Christie and Patricia Wentworth's books which I enjoy. (Besides being described as historical mysteries, Drew Farthing series are also in the Christian Fiction genre. I should note, I am not Christian but I have read several books in the genre. I find that books, like this series, are light on religion. This means that while the characters may be Christian and believe in God, religion is not really part of the story nor is it preachy.) Drew and Nick's chum from boarding school has asked Drew for help - there has been a murder and the police are not getting very far. We don't have Inspector Birdsong in this one, but his cousins are on the police force in Yorkshire moors. I like these cozy mysteries when I need a bit of a lighter entertainment. I like that while Drew is the main character, his wife, Madeline is just as involved and nosy as he is. Their love of reading mystery books, is so darn cute. I kind of miss when the read and discuss them. Nick is also a favourite of mine. He is the son of Dennison, Drew's butler and Drew's best friend. He is a great sidekick to the team. I am going straight into the next one in the series and can't wait to see what the trio get into next.

“Murder on the Moor” by Julianna Deering is a novel about friendship, clandestine activities, village eccentrics, and murder. The dialogue reeks of Britain. I found this very enjoyable. This novel takes place in the Yorkshire moors in the village of Bunting’s Nest. Drew and Madeline Fathering have earned a reputation for sleuthing and solving mysteries. When Drew’s old college classmate Beaky’s calls Drew for help, he and Madeline can hardly refuse. Beaky’s Bloodworth Park Lodge has become the scene of small crimes and unexplained worrisome incidents that are scaring the life out of his wife. After the murder of the old vicar of the church someone needs to investigate. Beaky welcomes Drew and Madeline to his home, not so much Beaky’s wife, Sabrina. After the murder of an elderly woman follows on the heels of the vicar’s demise, everyone is suspect. As the comment goes…the plot thickens. I did not have an inkling of the ending. It was a complete surprise and worth every word read to get there. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries and anything British.

This book is absolutely charming! It has a great plot with interesting characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

Purely as a story, I think this was one of the best in the series yet. It had everything, the enigmatic and atmospheric landscape of the Yorkshire moors that has lent itself well to tales of the strange and mysterious since the Brontes, well-drawn characters and a solid central mystery. Honestly, there were echoes of the literary greats, and many twists and turns to keep the characters guessing, and the resolution for some of the main characters ended it all on an uplifting note. Even the religious themes were worked well into the story.

Yet one thing really marred this story: well perhaps two things: the first that it was a little hard to keep track of all the characters, but you can get over that after a while and just follow the central mystery. What really did it was the Americanisms. The whole book was riddled with them 'gotten, someplace, write him, out in the yard, Two Hundred- Fifty' etc. Sorry, but it's a British mystery. Nobody, except the American wife of the protagonist Drew, should, well, speak that way.

For that reason, it can't quite be taken as seriously as some of the works of great British Literature that the characters read and quote. It's sad that so many books like this are spoiled by this very same thing.

At the urgent request of an old school friend, Drew and Madeline Farthering come to Bloodworth Park Lodge in the midst of the Yorkshire moors, a place as moody and mysterious as a Brontë hero. There have been several worrisome incidents around those lonesome rolling hills--property desecrated, fires started, sheep and cattle scattered. Worst of all, the vicar has been found dead on the steps of the church, a crime for which Drew can discern no motive at all.

Few in the town of Bunting's Nest seem like suspects, and Drew can't keep his suspicions from falling on his friend's new bride. Do her affections lie more with her husband's money and estate, while her romantic interests stray to their fiery Welsh gamekeeper? As the danger grows ever closer, it's up to Drew to look past his own prejudices, determine what's really going on, and find the killer before it's too late.

I did enjoy reading Murder on the Moor by Julianna Deering. I did not realize when I began it that it was a part of a larger series, but that did not seem to make to much of difference when reading this book. I am sure there were things that would have understood more deeply about the characters and their background if I had read the early books in the series, but it stands alone by itself just fine. The thing I enjoyed most about this book was that it was a straight mystery book. No silly romance thrown in and the Christianity of the characters was evident, but not over bearing. I certainly wouldn't mind reading the rest in this series. And I think if you are person who enjoys British period pieces and mystery, this would be a great book for you.


I received a free copy from the publisher. No review, positive or otherwise, was required—all opinions are my own.

Another wonderfully absorbing and cunning read from Julianne Deering!!!

Full of more than a few creative plot twists and turns, this page turner will keep you wondering until the end! An excellent and witty whodunit!!

A delight cupful of Nick and Nora Charles (a la The Thin Man), a sprinkle of Sherlock Holmes (Hounds of Baskerville) and a dash of Agatha Christie artfully blended to create another fabulous Drew Farthering mystery. A delightful romp through the English moorlands with a cleverly mysterious cast of characters, potentially creepy locales and genuinely satisfying ending!

Thank you, Julianne, it’s always a pleasure find myself fully engrossed in your crafty mysteries! Another five plus stars for sure!

"Murder on the Moor" by Julianna Deering is the 5th in the Farthering Mystery series. The series follows amateur detectives, Drew and Madeline Farthering in their English mystery solving quest. In the newest addition to the series, "Murder on the Moor", Drew's old school friend, Beaky, another master of riches and lands, asks Drew and Madeline to help him solve a mired of mysteries in the Moor. The Vicar has been murdered as well as someone has been "haunting" the north wing of his home. Shortly after the Fartherings' arrival another murder is committed and the strange occurrences keep piling up.
The Farthering mysteries are a well written, intriguing, and engaging group of books to read. I have read them all and they are all great. This one might be my favorite. They have that high class, gentry thing going on in them and yet the characters remain loveable and steer clear from the usual obnoxiousness that can befall stories of this era. I highly recommend this book as well as the series. I received this book in exchange for an honest review from www.bakerpublishinggroup.com.

Although this book is part of a series, I did not at all feel as if I was missing any information. I enjoyed the characters and the plot. Sabrina, for me, was one of the characters you love to hate! The author did a fabulous job in writing her character. I found myself frequently irritated with her, I just didn't trust her at all. But then there were times were I was surprised and actually found myself liking her very much. She was by far my favorite character.

I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery right along with Drew and Madeline. I felt like I was playing detective too. I love reading mysteries that don't give it all away in the beginning. I will admit, I was a bit surprised when the mystery was solved, but also delighted that it wasn't what I originally thought. I am definitely going to look into other books about Drew Farthering and see what other mysteries I can solve with him!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I have finally met Drew Farthering, and the pleasure is all mine. Suave but not arrogant. Handsome and besotted with his wife, Madeline. Kindhearted. Strong but not so much that he doesn’t realize he needs God. A book lover (be still my heart) and an amateur sleuth. Yep. Drew, my friend, I apologize for not making your acquaintance much sooner.

In this installment of his eponymous series, Drew and Madeline head off to the moors to help out a friend of Drew’s. The moors are everything you’d except them to be. Foggy, mysterious, full of characters you aren’t quite sure about. Now that I’m catching up on the series (I’m backreading too) I’m delighted with the way the author ties each book in with a classic novel. From Rules of Murder which took all of Knox’s ten commandments of mysteries and set them on their ear to a Bronte-sisters mood in Murder on the Moor, literary references abound in this series!

The murder mystery, like the moor, is full of characters I couldn’t quite trust. Even up to the last few pages, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop on a couple of folks. This heightens the delicious moorish tension to the book as well as giving layers to the mystery – all of which makes it a perfect reading choice for Agatha Christie fans as well as Bronte aficionados. Excellently plotted and ideally paced.

I went back and read Rules of Murder before I read this one, simply because I own it already and wanted to give myself the backstory in advance in case I needed it. But Murder on the Moor also does nicely as a standalone. There’s enough background that you’re aware of who the main characters are and their history with each other, even if you aren’t able to readily access a copy of the previous books in the series. I would highly suggest reading them all though – they’re wonderfully cozy and British and witty and romantic (without being too sappy).

Bottom Line: If you haven’t yet met Drew Farthering, you really must. In Murder on the Moor, he and Madeline and Nick (all faves of mine) continue to act as a seamless amateur sleuthing team – and a trio of the dearest friends. They’ll feel like dear friends to you, too, before you’re very far into the book. A well-crafted mystery, a British moor, literary references, a dry sense of humor, a handsome hero, and a witty heroine … what “moor” (ahem) could you ask for?

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

When it comes to mysteries, it’s hard to go past the Yorkshire moors for atmosphere, and that’s exactly where Drew and Madeline head for this fifth mystery in the Drew Farthering series. Mind you, I love the atmosphere in each of the Drew Farthering novels, regardless of where they’re set—because Drew is the quintessential 1930s English gentleman, and there’s just something about him, as well as the era and setting he inhabits, that’s irresistible. If you’re forming the impression that I’m already a fan, then it’s full marks to you, Sherlock! —Er... I mean, Farthering :-)

This novel had everything I’ve come to expect from the Drew Farthering series: an intriguing mystery, liberally sprinkled with characters who may or may not have anything to do with the crime(s); well-paced writing that perfectly captures the flavour of the setting and era; a sampling of Drew’s wit (including a fantastic set-down delivered to a worthy opponent); and even a life lesson or two about allowing previous experiences to colour your assumptions.

There are references to such classics as Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and Hound of the Baskervilles sprinkled throughout the story—even some eerie similarities, with whispers of a barghest prowling the moors—but there are some light-hearted moments too, thanks largely to Drew and his long-time friend, Nick Cooper, and a particularly diligent police officer! And, as always, there are those sweet private moments between Drew and Madeline where we get glimpses of their companionship, their love, and the way in which they build each other up.

If you’re a historical or cozy mystery lover, I strongly recommend you introduce yourself to Drew Farthering.

This is a great whimsical yet mysterical Christian mystery. This reminded me of my favorite mysteries - Sherlock Holmes. Drew and Madeline are amateur sleuths and they are asked to help with a murder of a vicar. The mystery is intriguing, lighthearted, imaginative, and intelligently written. You are guessing throughout the whole book who did it and why. When you find out you are - why wow never would have guessed in a million years. The other characters are a kaleidoscope of uniqueness, and oddities. You will love this book

I am a huge fan of Agatha Christie and Murder on the Moor had an Agatha Christie feel, of course it helps that the book is set in London. Drew Farthering reminded me of Hercule Poirot. I enjoyed every minute of this book. It was fun, a little spooky, has some interesting characters. A true cozy mystery, that I highly recommend!

I loved the book and look forward to reading more from this author. Here is a link to my review:

I have enjoyed every one of Julianna Deering’s Drew Farthering Mysteries, but I think Murder on the Moor is the best yet. It’s the fifth book in the series, and although there is a minor subplot arching over the series, this can be read as a standalone, or as part of the series. And best of all, reading them out of order won’t hurt.

In Murder on the Moor, Drew and Madeline Fathering are called to an old house in a tiny village on the edge of the Yorkshire Moors after the local vicar is found murdered on the steps of the church. There is no apparent motive but there is a village full of interesting characters with secrets to hide … the handsome Welsh gamekeeper, the bright unsatisfied wife, the unhappy neighbours, the rough local poacher, his blind daughter who weaves yarn in beautiful colours, and the tales of an enormous wild beast which roams the moors.

And there are the village secrets Drew gradually uncovers, one of which will lead him to the truth about the murder … if he isn’t killed first.

Murder in the Moor is set in the 1930s, and is written in the classic style of writers such as Agatha Christie, and Georgette Heyer (who wrote ‘contemporary’ mysteries as well as her better-known Regency romance). The style and tone perfectly captures the feel of the era, especially the different classes, and the ending was perfect: unexpected, yet obvious enough (in hindsight) to be satisfying.

Overall, recommended for mystery fans.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

Murder On The Moor by Julianna Deering is a historical murder mystery. It is the fifth book in the Drew Farthering series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Set in the years following the Great War Murder On The Moor is written in a style reminiscent of P.G.Wodehouse, Sherlock Holmes and Rebecca all rolled into one. The 'voices' were very much the clipped English tones from the 1950's BBC.
Set on the bleak Yorkshire moors, the technique of pathetic fallacy was employed, as the weather and the setting mirrored the action. This produced a great atmosphere for the reader.
This was my first Drew Farthering novel and at first I found the mix of characters a little confusing but I soon got into it.
The plot was intriguing and intricate and well thought out. As the murder count rose, I was reminded of the television program Midsommer Murders. I tried my hardest to guess the outcome but failed.
An old style murder mystery just perfect to wile away the afternoon.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

I thoroughly love Drew and Madeline! Their chemistry is unmistakable and very fun to watch. I enjoyed the story, although, it started off slow for me. However, the author creates such interesting characters I found myself drawn in. As the story progressed I found it more and more intriguing. Mysteries are my favorite genre and I love it when I can try to solve the crime along with the main characters. The author gave subtle clues throughout the story. But she definitely threw a very nice twist that I didn't see coming.

This is my second Drew Farthering mystery and I look forward to reading more. If you enjoyed the other Drew Farthering mysteries I'm sure you'll enjoy this one. If you like well written, thought out mysteries, give this a try. If you are an adrenaline junkie that feeds of the Seatbelt Suspense of Brandilyn Collins or the action packed suspense stories of Terri Blackstock, then this may be too slow paced for you.
Rating: 4 Stars!

Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher, via Netgalley.com, but I was not required to leave a review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

Another murder, another mystery, and Drew and Madeline are back to solve it!

As Drew and Madeline Fathering get ready for another typical night, the phone suddenly rings with a request to speak with Drew. One of Drew’s old schoolmates, Beaky Bloodworth, is calling with a request for his help. He has read about Drew’s amateur sleuthing in the newspapers and wants his help to investigate some matters going on up in Yorkshire at his newly inherited lodge. As it turns out, the local vicar has been recently murdered and no one can figure out why or who would do it. Beaky’s recently wedded wife, Sabrina, is now hearing things in the lodge and getting rather scared about it. Drew and Madeline consent to coming to help, but may be stepping off into more than what they expect. Soon after arriving, they begin meeting many of the residents around the small town as well as the neighbors, who had bad blood with Beaky’s uncle. There is also a gamekeeper on the property who could give Don Juan a run for his money. Add a local poacher that lives on the moor and there are more than enough suspects as to who would want to run Beaky and Sabrina off the moor. But why kill the vicar? Then when another murder takes place, it has connections to both Sabrina and Beaky’s uncles. Can Drew and Madeline solve it before they become the next victims?

Julianna Deering writes such fun loving mysteries. I love reading these stories and have been so happy that the common characters always return for each new installment. I thought I was going to be a little disappointed that Nick Dennison wasn’t going to be in this one, but then he showed up at just the right time, as usual. However, after five mysteries, I’m beginning to find that I’m a pretty good sleuth right alongside Drew and Madeline. I actually had this one figured out pretty well into it. Well, I should say I knew who-did-it, but not actually who it was. I should have though, so she still has that on me.

I also love the way that we’ve seen Drew grow spiritually throughout the books. He has really gotten some depth to his character. And the witty banter between himself and Nick is always there. Not as much in this particular book, but I still love it. I recommend the entire series, but this one is still a good stand alone as well. No matter the age, pick up one of these and give it a try!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

I grew up reading mysteries from Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers. Reading this mystery series by Deering is like coming home again. The dialog, the setting, the mystery, and the characters are crafted with precision. What a treat.

Drew Farthering (who reminds me of Lord Peter Wimsey) has been asked by an old classmate to help solve a mystery. Mysterious activities have been happening on his estate, culminating in the murder of the village vicar. Drew and his wife travel to the Yorkshire moors. Fathering sets out to identify the murderer, but all too soon there is another murder and impending danger.

I love the setting of 1930s England. Deering has paid particular attention to detail with regards to the landscape, the dwellings, the cars, etc. Parts of this novel have hints of Sherlock Homes embedded in it too. That was fun. The characters are well developed. Deering has done a great job crafting distinct individuals, some a bit quirky. It was interesting to see Drew eat a little crow in this novel – signs of a maturing man. But my favorite part of the novel by far is the dialog. The repartee between Drew and his wife is delightful.

I highly recommend this novel and the entire series to readers who enjoy historical mysteries set in pre-WW II England. I am looking forward to the next adventure from this author.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.