Death Comes to the Fair

By Catherine Lloyd

When murder postpones their wedding, a couple vows to find a killer in this Regency-era mystery by the author of Death Comes to Kurland Hall.
 
As Miss Lucy Harrington, daughter of the village rector, and Major Sir Robert Kurland plan their nuptials, the major is beginning to wonder if he’ll ever hear wedding bells. He’s seen complex military campaigns that involved less strategy, and he’s finding Lucy’s meddling family maddening.
 
When the body of Ezekiel Thurrock, the church verger, is discovered crushed by a gargoyle that has fallen from the bell tower, the wedding is delayed. But the evidence suggests this was no accident, and Lucy wonders if bad blood at the village fair had anything to do with the man’s mysterious demise, since there was much bitterness over Ezekiel’s prizewinning vegetables.
 
As Lucy and Robert uncover long-standing village feuds, the town’s dark secrets begin to take their toll and the couple soon finds they too are in grave danger…

Praise for the Kurland St. Mary Mysteries

“A pleasant combination of Regency romance and mystery that evokes fond memories of Georgette Heyer.”—Kirkus Reviews

 

“The couple’s complementary investigative skills shine in a plot that balances colorful characters and lively action.”—Publishers Weekly

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kensington Books
• Release date: Dec 1, 2016
• ISBN: 9781496702050

Book preview

own.

Chapter 1

Kurland St. Mary, England

October 1817

"But the thing is, Andrew, how long does it take a female to organize a simple wedding? When you and Mrs. Giffin married it all seemed remarkably straightforward."

Major Sir Robert Kurland glanced down at his companion, Andrew Stanford, as they made their way along the tree-lined drive of Kurland Hall toward the village where the local fair was currently taking place.

It was a clear, crisp autumn day with a snap of winter wrapped within its deceptively sunny depths. Robert had elected to walk down to the village to stretch his injured leg, and, more importantly, to have the chance to complain to his best friend about the current state of his affairs.

Sophia and I were both widowers, Robert, and I acquired a special license, which meant no reading of the banns was necessary. Neither of us desired a fashionably large wedding.

Neither do I. Robert sighed. All I require is a man of the cloth, my bride, and two witnesses, but apparently this shows a shocking lack of consideration for my bride’s family and her feelings.

"Miss Harrington is the niece of an earl, my friend. Andrew laughed. You cannot expect her family to accept such a paltry event. She needs to be married off in style."

Robert snorted. "It is more like a circus. There are bride clothes to be ordered and made, invitations to be sent to the far corners of the earth to gather the Harringtons in one place, and that must be in London at St. George’s Hanover Square, even though I detest London and they all know it. He paused to take a breath. In truth, I despair of ever getting Miss Harrington up the aisle."

Have you spoken to her about this matter?

How can I? Every time I see her she is preoccupied with endless lists and problems. And with Miss Chingford acting as her watchdog, I’ve barely had a moment alone with her.

Andrew chuckled and quickly turned it into a cough when Robert glared at him.

You find this amusing?

I’m sorry, my friend. You’re a military man. Perhaps you need to alter your strategy.

And do what? Surrender? I’ll be damned if I’m not consulted about my own wedding.

Robert looked ahead at the old church of Kurland St. Mary, which stood opposite the far newer rectory. Beyond the church lay the village green, which was currently covered in tentlike structures that reminded him of an ill-disciplined military camp. Half the village, and all of the local children, appeared to be milling around the tents. Foley, his butler, had asked for leave for the staff at Kurland Hall to visit the fair, which Robert had granted. In fact, he could see his stable boy, Joseph Cobbins, running across the grass toward the Punch and Judy show. It was good to see the boy doing something childish for once.

"Speak to Miss Harrington. I’m sure she will be able to allay your fears. You do want to marry her, don’t you, Robert?"

Of course I do.

Then mayhap this is the price you will have to pay to win your fair maiden.

Robert caught a glimpse of a gaggle of females leaving the rectory and slightly increased his pace. Perhaps I will be allowed a moment alone with my betrothed at the fair. If I can separate her from the gorgon.

How about I engage Miss Chingford in conversation while you take Miss Harrington to view the entries in the harvest festival tent? You are one of the judges anyway, aren’t you?

Apparently. Robert groaned. Last year I wasn’t well enough to participate. My betrothed tells me it is my duty to be involved, and I have learned to heed her words.

Andrew slapped him on the back. Spoken like a man ready to be leg shackled. Look, I see Miss Chingford and her sister up ahead. Why don’t you find Miss Harrington and carry her off?

I wish I could, Robert grumbled. An elopement to Gretna Green sounds like a remarkably fine idea at this point.

Andrew shook his head, and stepped in front of Robert, his charming smile in place as he offered both of the Chingford ladies an arm, and bore them off in search of his wife.

Robert discovered his intended crouched down in front of a small child wiping his rather snotty nose. She wore a plain blue bonnet that obscured her features, and a serviceable black cloak. Leaning on his cane, he offered her his hand to rise.

Good afternoon, Miss Harrington.

Major Kurland! She turned toward him, a smile lightening her usual calm expression. I am so glad to see you.

Really? Usually these days you tell me to go away and leave you in peace.

She sighed as she took his arm. Are you still sulking?

Gentlemen do not sulk. I merely chose to disagree with you about the arrangements for our wedding. I am maintaining a dignified silence until you come to your senses, and realize I am right.

About the benefits of eloping? She was leading him toward one of the tents. Surely that was a jest.

If it was, it came from my deep sense of exasperation at the ridiculous amount of foolishness a wedding seems to encourage.

We have already had this conversation several times, sir. I cannot simply run away with you.

Just before they reached the entrance, Robert took a step to the side and drew Miss Harrington down a narrow alley between two of the tents. It was dark, and he had to pick his way carefully to avoid the pegs and ropes anchoring the structures to the ground.

Major Kurland! Wherever are you going?

He turned to her, one hand cupping her chin. "Why not?"

She searched his face, her expression worried. Because it appears that I am not in control of this event, either. My father and uncle are engaged in some kind of unofficial war over who will provide the best and most elaborate wedding for one of their children. It is obvious that my uncle will win, but it seems I am merely another pawn in their lifelong competition.

He leaned in and rubbed his nose against hers. Tell them all to go to the devil and run away with me.

And create gossip about my family? I cannot do it. I have Anna’s reputation to consider as well as that of my cousins. Their chances of making a good marriage would suffer if I was considered to have behaved irresponsibly.

But we’d be married.

I know. She sighed. But one cannot always be thinking of oneself.

I can. He kissed her firmly on the mouth.

She pressed her hands against his chest. Major Kurland, this is hardly the time, or the place for this kind of—

He kissed her again, and with a soft sound she kissed him back, and then stepped away. "That’s quite enough of that."

I want you in my house, and in my bed, Lucy Harrington.

And I want to be there, she stuttered. "I mean, I want to be your wife. Please be patient, Robert, I beg you."

He sighed. It seems I have no choice. Perhaps I should speak to your father again.

Or my aunt Jane. She seems to be in charge of everything.

Robert took her hand and led her toward the rear of the tents. Mayhap I should set Aunt Rose on her. She recently organized a society wedding in no time at all.

For a very good reason. Miss Harrington flicked a wry glance at him. I believe the bride was in an interesting condition.

Robert opened his mouth, but his betrothed held up a gloved finger. "And please do not even entertain the notion of that being a way to speed up our wedding!"

You like my kisses.

"I do, but I would prefer to share the . . . the rest of it in the sanctity of our marriage bed."

Thus speaks the rector’s daughter. Robert offered her his arm. Shall we go and judge the harvest fruits and vegetables? Foley tells me that Mr. Pethridge from the Kurland Hall Home Farm has entered some very strong candidates.

She glanced up at him as they walked decorously back to the front of the tent. Are you angry with me?

No.

Are you quite certain?

I am certainly exasperated, but I do wish to marry you, so I suppose I will have to be patient.

She patted his sleeve. Thank you.

He glanced down as he lifted the flap of the tent to allow her to enter ahead of him. But not for very much longer.

The air inside the tent was thick with the earthy scents of rows of neatly laid out produce, flowers, and local handicrafts. There were a large number of persons viewing the offerings, and commenting on the splendor or lack of it in each specimen with unusual frankness.

Miss Harrington steered him toward the first table, which was covered in serried rows of carrots rather like ranks of soldiers. And like any battalion, the size and shape of the carrots differed quite significantly.

Robert lowered his voice. What exactly am I supposed to be doing?

Didn’t your parents ever bring you to the fair? Miss Harrington asked, handing him a piece of paper with several numbers on it that obviously related to the anonymous entries.

I’m fairly certain they did, but I doubt I spent time perusing rows of vegetables. I was far more interested in running wild with the village lads, and getting up to mischief.

"Each entrant provides three samples from their garden. As a judge you must decide which entry as a whole is the best."

So if there is one huge carrot and two smaller ones that’s not as prize worthy as three large carrots of the same size?

Exactly. Miss Harrington favored him with an approving smile. Can I leave you to pick your top three in each category while I deal with the preserves and cakes?

If you must.

She walked away and was soon busy at the other end of the tent sampling far more interesting things than Robert’s raw vegetables. But it was his duty to support the village so he soldiered on, noting his choices on the paper she’d given him as he worked his way through tables full of leeks and cabbages, onions and potatoes.

While he considered his choices he was aware of the sense of being under covert observation from several pairs of eyes. Considering it was just a local contest he felt under more pressure than he had perhaps anticipated.

Eventually, he worked his way through the crowd toward Miss Harrington, where she was speaking to Andrew’s wife, and a man he didn’t recognize.

Miss Harrington summoned him to her side and turned to the rotund gentleman beside her. I don’t believe you’ve been introduced to our newest guest at the rectory, sir. Major Sir Robert Kurland, this is Mr. Nathaniel Thurrock.

Delighted to meet you, Sir Robert, or do you prefer to maintain your military rank?

Sir Robert will do perfectly well.

Mr. Thurrock bowed with some difficulty, and Robert distinctly heard the creak of a corset.

A pleasure, sir, a great pleasure.

Mr. Thurrock, are you perhaps related to our estimable verger?

He’s my brother. I’m down from Cambridge visiting him this past two weeks.

Robert pictured the tall, thin, self-effacing verger, and could see little family resemblance. I do hope you are enjoying your visit.

Indeed I am. The rector and I have corresponded for several years about matters relating to the Thurrock family and other interesting issues of a historical nature about the county of Hertfordshire. We were at university together. He smoothed the lapels of his coat. I confess, although my profession is as a man of law, I am something of an amateur historian in my spare time.

How fascinating. Robert attempted to catch Miss Harrington’s eye. You must come up to the hall, and have dinner before you leave.

That would be very generous of you, sir, very generous indeed. Mr. Thurrock bowed deeply. I was hoping to ask for the favor of a peek at your estate records at some point, but unsure whether I would be considered worthy enough to approach you.

Robert raised an eyebrow. I’m hardly an ogre, Mr. Thurrock. I’m sure my land agent, Mr. Fletcher, would be more than happy to allow you access to anything you desire.

"That is very good of you, Sir Robert. In truth, most kind and obliging. Mr. Thurrock smiled at Miss Harrington. Your confidence in Sir Robert was justified, ma’am. He is indeed most amiable."

When do you leave the village, Mr. Thurrock? Robert asked as he spotted his young land agent coming into the tent and beckoned him over.

Not for another week or so, sir.

Robert smiled at Dermot Fletcher, the younger brother of the village doctor and Robert’s newest employee.

Dermot, may I introduce you to Mr. Nathaniel Thurrock? He wishes to study the family archives at Kurland Hall. Please arrange a suitable date and time for him to meet with you at the hall, and then sit down to dinner with us in the evening.

Yes, Sir Robert.

Nodding briefly at Mr. Thurrock, Robert offered Miss Harrington his arm and steered her away from the entrance. At the other end of the tent the tall verger was talking to Andrew and the Chingford sisters, who were studying the handicraft displays.

Where do the fruit and vegetables go after the contest? Robert asked.

Most of it is donated to the harvest festival display in the church. After that it either goes back to the owner, is given to the poorhouse, or taken to the pig farm near Kurland St. Anne.

I’m glad to hear it doesn’t go to waste. After the terrible summers we’ve had the last two years, there are plenty of mouths to feed.

Robert’s gaze shifted to the flatness of the horizon and the never-ending struggle to drain his land, grow decent crops, and avoid flooding. If he hadn’t insisted on joining the army he would have been far more prepared for the agricultural disasters of the last two years. He could only thank God that unlike most landowners his income derived mainly from trade and industrialization. Dirty words to some of the gentry, but Robert didn’t care if it kept his people alive.

So did you pick your winners?

Robert’s thoughts flew back to Miss Harrington. I have them written down, as requested.

She took the sheets and started to read, her brow furrowing. "You can’t do it like this. One has to use one’s diplomatic skills to make sure that every family in the village wins at least something."

He took the list back. That would be cheating, my dear. When I made my choices I had no idea which number related to which villager. I chose the best, and I stand by my decisions.

I don’t have time to argue with you about this, but be prepared for some rather unhappy competitors.

As if anyone will care about such a piffling thing.

She frowned. Major, you have no idea . . .

An ominous rumble of thunder had even more people crowding into the tent. The smell of the great unwashed, and the slightly damp, reminded Robert all too forcibly of his days in the cavalry.

Can we announce the winners, now?

Miss Harrington was looking around her as he spoke. There is my father. He will be revealing the winners while we give away the prizes. Let’s attempt to persuade him to start right away.

* * *

Lucy glanced down the list the major had handed her, added the real winners’ names, and wondered whether she had time to substitute a list of her own. Knowing the irascible nature of her betrothed she had no doubt that if she attempted to change a thing he would stand up and denounce her. The tent was now almost full, and her father was beckoning her and the major onto the temporary stage.

In one corner of the tent Penelope Chingford was in close conversation with Dr. Fletcher. Neither of them was smiling, which was quite usual, as they seemed to knock heads over everything, and gained an enormous amount of pleasure from doing so. If she didn’t know better, she would believe Penelope was attracted to the dratted man. But her enemy-turned-unlikely-friend had her sights set on marrying a man of property and wealth, neither of which the local doctor possessed.

Lucy, come along, my dear. I’m waiting, her father called out, his tone rather peevish.

She gathered her skirts and stepped up onto the temporary dais.

Here you are, Father. My list and Major Kurland’s of all the winners.

Thank you. Her father put on his spectacles and cleared his throat loudly. May I have your attention, everyone? Both Major Sir Robert Kurland and myself would like to thank you for attending the fair, and for offering your best produce to our contest. I’ll wager it was a hard decision to pick your winners, eh, Major?

Major Kurland bowed. Indeed it was, Rector.

Then I shall start by revealing the name of the winner for the best turnip.

Standing as she was on the raised stage, Lucy had an excellent view of all the watching faces. She quailed as her father carried on announcing the victors, and the mumbling and muttering grew louder.

Good gracious! He beamed out over the crowd. I do believe our verger, Mr. Ezekiel Thurrock, has won more first prizes than any other contestant in the last twenty years or so. He waved at the verger, who was standing near the back of the tent. Come up and accept your prizes, Mr. Thurrock, and well done, sir!

A path cleared to allow the shrinking verger to approach the dais. To Lucy it appeared less of a welcoming gesture and more as the action of a hostile mob surrounding their prey. Several of the villagers were now openly disagreeing with the prizes awarded. Muttered comments were directed at the poor verger as he moved nervously through the ranks.

Ain’t right, one of the old farmers said loud enough for everyone on the dais to hear. I’ve won that prize five years in a row, and my turnips were far superior to his. The old man raised his voice over the murmur of agreement. Strange how the verger’s won everything this year while the rector be the one giving out the prizes.

The verger gained the dais looking rather scared and murmured, I do not deserve such an honor. I would be more than happy to stand down, and allow others to win.

Hear, hear! someone shouted.

Major Kurland stepped forward, his commanding voice carrying clearly over the crowd. Mr. Thurrock, you won your prizes fairly and without prejudice. Please accept them, and we will move on to the handicrafts.

The muttering died away, but the discontent on many of the faces didn’t. Poor Mr. Thurrock slunk off to the side, where the only person who congratulated him was his brother. Lucy turned to the major, and gave him her most eloquent look. In return he raised a dismissive eyebrow, and nodded to her father, who resumed speaking.

Let us move on, then, to the more gentle and feminine arts, and hope our Mr. Thurrock didn’t try his hand at some needlework.

His attempt at a joke fell flat with the still-muttering crowd. After she handed out the prizes to the winners, and hoped she had somewhat redressed the balance of village pride, she rejoined Major Kurland, who was now talking to Mr. Stanford.

He glanced down at her as she approached, his dark blue gaze intent. I’ll escort Mr. Thurrock and his brother back to the rectory. The poor verger is concerned he might be set upon.

I did attempt to tell you that your choices might not win universal approval.

Good Lord, Miss Harrington, these are paltry prizes for vegetables! Who would’ve thought the whole village would develop windmills in their heads and take this ridiculous competition so seriously?

Lucy lowered her voice. "Some of these families have been battling over these ridiculous competitions for generations, sir. It has become a matter of great pride to some of them to win every year."

Which has only happened because you and the other judges have operated like a rotten borough, and fixed the vote.

For the good of everyone, Major. She glared back at him. "Many of these people have little of value in their lives, and winning such a contest—being the best at something —improves their spirits and sense of purpose."

Poppycock. Major Kurland shook his head. "You are being far too emotional about this matter, Miss Harrington. If a man believes his worth is measured by the length of his carrot, then perhaps it is time for him to aspire to new and higher standards."

Lucy merely looked at him, and then turned away shaking her head. Sometimes it was hard to believe that she and the major had both grown up in the same village. His understanding of those around him was lamentably lacking, but then he’d been sent away to school at seven, and gone straight into the army after that.

He hadn’t really lived among the villagers as she and the rest of the rectory children had done. But then he wasn’t supposed to understand those who owed him their living. He was in the position to affect their lives far too widely to be seen as anything less than a temperamental god like most of the landed gentry too far above them to be criticized or crossed.

Which simply meant he assumed that when he gave an order it would be obeyed without question. Lucy looked around the tent, where several groups of villagers were still gathered. In this case, she had a strong suspicion that the major’s final decision was about to cause quite a few problems amongst those who felt slighted. She could only hope that nothing more dangerous than a few muttered comments aimed at the poor verger occurred before the event was consigned to village history, not forgotten—nothing ever was, but suitably in the past.

Chapter 2

"I will accompany you this morning, Lucy. I agreed to help Dr. Fletcher distribute bottles of elderflower cough elixir to some of the villagers in Kurland St. Anne. I can meet him at his house."

Penelope was already tying the ribbons on her bonnet in her usual determined fashion and Lucy didn’t have the heart to argue with her. Miss Chingford and her sister had been living at the rectory for months now while their relations fought furiously and politely to avoid taking any responsibility for them. Apparently no one wanted to take in two sisters with little money, and a dire family reputation.

When Anna returned from her London Season, and the twins came home from school for Christmas, the house would be packed to the gunnels again. Lucy patted her reticule. At least she knew that her brother, Anthony, was in good health serving in Major Kurland’s old regiment. She’d had a letter from him on the previous day that she intended to send on to Anna at the earliest opportunity.

Anna expected Lucy to join her in London fairly shortly, an expedition Lucy was attempting to avoid. She had a terrible suspicion that once her aunt Jane got hold of her she wouldn’t escape until the day of her wedding, and she had far better things to do than sit in a drawing room in London being lectured by her aunt.

Lucy? Are you coming?

She picked up her umbrella, and followed Penelope out through the kitchen, where Betty was making a fresh pot of tea.

Morning, Miss Harrington. Off to see the major, are you?

I might visit him later this morning, but I have a few calls to make in the village today. Is there anything we need?

Cinnamon, miss. Betty frowned. "At least I think that’s what Mrs. Fielding said she was needing."

Where is Mrs. Fielding?

I believe she took the rector up his breakfast tray, miss.

Betty couldn’t quite meet Lucy’s gaze. They both knew exactly how matters stood between the cook and the rector, but neither of them would elaborate. It was the reason the rector tolerated the cook, and allowed her to ride roughshod over all Lucy’s orders. She wouldn’t miss Mrs. Fielding’s barely veiled insolence once she moved to Kurland Hall.

"Betty, now that my father has employed Maisey to take your place, you do wish to accompany me to Kurland Hall on my marriage, don’t you?"

Oh yes, miss! I am looking forward to it immensely.

You will become my personal maid, and I will ensure that your wages are increased accordingly.

Thank you, miss. Betty bobbed a curtsy, her cheeks flushed. I can’t wait to tell my mum and dad.

It’s your afternoon off today, isn’t it? Betty nodded, wiping her hands on her apron. You should take some of that chutney we made for your parents.

That would be lovely, miss, although Mrs. Fielding said it wasn’t for sharing.

"And I say you may take at least two jars."

Betty grinned at her. As you wish, Miss Harrington. She’s all down in the dumps because she didn’t win first prize at the village fair for anything. I heard her telling Mrs. Pethridge that it was obvious the rector hadn’t favored his employees, otherwise she would have won, and that Major Kurland was to blame for allowing Mr. Thurrock to win all the prizes.

Major Kurland was only doing his duty.

"And I think he was right, miss. Some of those folks were getting a mite conceited about their leeks and cabbages. I even heard they were taking wagers in the pub as to who was going to win and betting on themselves."

Lucy winced. "That doesn’t surprise me at all. I don’t think Major Kurland had any idea how seriously our villagers

Reviews for Death Comes to the Fair

[carlathelibrarian · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This is the first book in the Kurland St. Mary Mystery series I have read. I did not have a problem following the story, but I believe that the development of the characters that I missed in the prior books might have made this one more interesting to me. I did not really get to know the characters in this book, it seemed like they were supposed to be old friends that I really didn't know well. Not the author's fault, just a warning if you have not read the others in the series.

Miss Lucy Harrington is betrothed to Sir Major Robert Kurland and they are the main characters in the story. Lucy is the vicar's's daughter and has to be careful not to be seen with her betrothed without a chaperone. Unfortunately, she is also a very strong woman and puts herself into that situation often during the story, causing some gossip. When the verger (an official in a church who acts as a caretaker and attendant), Ezekeal Thurrock, of St. Mary's church is found dead after winning several prizes at the local fair, Lucy and Sir Robert become convinced that the death was not an accident. They begin to uncover evidence that the Thurrock family has some skeletons in their closet as well as many enemies. As some strange occurences come to light and more evidence emerges, Lucy and Robert uncover a centuries old vendetta that may have caused the deaths in present day.

This series is very character driven. The dialogue and the relationship between Lucy and Robert carry much of the book. The secondary characters such as Lucy's father, the staff as well as the sisters acting as chaperones also add to the story and the background. When the verger was first found dead, the story was a bit slow, but as the investigation moved forward, I found myself much more vested in what was going to happen. I did not figure out who the murderer was as was a bit perturbed at one point as there was mention of the characters but not many clues or motivation given, but as the story unfolded, it cleared up the issues, but not to my satisfaction. I am going to go back and read the previous books and see how I feel then. A good read for cozy mystery lovers with a Victorian setting. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.

[jalenv_2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Death Comes to the Fair is the 4th Kurland St. Mary mystery. As in the third book, Death Comes to Kurland Hall, there's a wedding. The last time Major Sir Robert Kurland's best friend married Miss Lucy Harrington's best friend. Now it's time for their wedding. Robert and Lucy would prefer a small wedding in their own village. Lucy is the granddaughter and niece of earls (her father was the younger son). Her family wants her to have the big London wedding they feel is due her family. Lucy keeps putting off going to London to help her aunt with the arrangements.In the meantime, Sir Robert is doing his duty and judging vegetables at the village fair. Sadly, he doesn't listen to Lucy. She knows enough to share the prizes around because the competition is important to the villagers' pride. Sir Robert awards the prizes based on the actual merit of the vegetables. Instead of verger Ezekiel Thurrock winning one prize, he wins them all. The anger and resentment Lucy feared results. Is that why the poor man is soon found dead?

[readingover50 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Death Comes to the Fair is the fourth book in the Kurland St. Mary Mystery series. The story is set in the small village of Kurland St. Mary in England, 1817. Major Sir Robert Kurland is engaged to Miss Lucy Harrington, the daughter of the local Rector. After the judging at the local fair awards most of the prizes to Ezekiel Thurrock's vegetables, he is found dead in the local church where he is the verger (an official in a church who acts as a caretaker and attendant). A stone gargoyle has fallen on his head, and although first declared an accident, it soon becomes clear that he was murdered.

Lucy and Sir Robert become involved in solving the mystery. Things become complicated when Ezekiel's brother, Nathaniel begins investigating old records, trying to determine land ownership in the area. His delving into old events causes problems with the other land owners in the area. There are concerns about witchcraft and rumors of buried treasure.

The story moves along at a pretty slow pace. I don't know if this is common for other Regency books, because this is not a genre I usually read. The action doesn't really pick up until the last 1/4 of the book. At that point, it becomes pretty exciting. There are a lot of characters to keep track of, and a lot of interbreeding between the local families. It felt like everyone was related to everyone else.

I didn't feel like I was missing much by not reading the first three books. I think they would be important for the back story between Robert and Lucy, to see how they progressed from friends to fiances, but as far as the central mystery goes, not necessary.

This book was ok, but didn't really resonate with me. The pacing was too slow for my liking. I give this 3 out of 5 stars.

I received a ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[murderbydeath · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Not quite the slump breaker I was hoping for, but not a bad little mystery either. The novelty the main characters had in the first novel has worn off (reasonably enough) and the author is left with the tried and true: killing off the villagers. From the sounds of this village, they may deserve it. This book stumbled for me because a great draw is the chemistry and banter between the two MCs and they were kept apart quite a bit and their adventures when they were together lacked that certain something I enjoyed before. A well known, loathsome villager gets what's coming by the end - which is great! - but there's this giant hole at the end where we miss out on the reaction of at least one significant character whose life is directly affected by the outcome of events. That felt weird to me; the author couldn't spare a few more pages to flesh that out? But there was still a lot I liked about this cozy; I enjoyed it more than most of what I've been reading lately. It held my attention and the setting felt like an old friend. Given my general grumpiness lately, I'll take that and be thankful for it.

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Death Comes to the Fair by Catherine Lloyd is the fourth book in A Kurland St. Mary Mystery series. It is October in 1817 in Kurland St. Mary (England). Major Sir Robert Kurland is engaged to Miss Lucy Harrington, the rector’s daughter. Sir Robert wants the wedding to be soon, but Lucy is the niece of an earl. Her relative’s want her to have a big wedding in London (which will take time to plan). Sir Robert is not known for his patience. It is time for the village fair (done after the harvest) and, Robert is to judge the vegetables. Robert is new to judging, and he believes in the best should win. Ezekiel Thurrock, the local verger, wins the majority of the prizes for the vegetables. Many of the locals are angry at the outcome (Lucy tried to warn Robert). Lucy goes to arrange the church’s harvest display, and she finds Ezekiel dead. A gargoyle lays nearby, and it is obvious it hit Ezekiel on the head. Upon investigation (Lucy cannot help herself) Lucy discovers that the gargoyle is not part of the church. Robert is the local magistrate and, with Lucy’s help, starts looking into Ezekiel’s background. Ezekiel’s brother, Nathaniel happens to be staying at the rectory. It turns out that Nathaniel is trying to prove that the Kurland family stole land from the Thurrock’s. The more the pair look into the Thurrock family history, the more secrets they uncover. Someone in the village does not like their inquiries and takes action to sideline the pair. Lucy and Robert will need to keep their wits about them to make it out of this situation!Death Comes to the Fair is well-written, engaging, and easy to read. I liked the characters, the historical period, and the setting. Catherine Lloyd certainly captures the historical period. I also liked the side stories that took place in the novel (my favorite was between Dr. Fletcher and Miss Penelope Chingford). I appreciated the author’s descriptions of the Lucy’s clothes (even though Penelope kept spiriting them off). The novel contains just the right amount of humor (it will make you laugh) and romance. I give Death Comes to the Fair 4.5 out of 5 stars (I really liked it). The mystery seems complicated (which I relished), but it can be solved (if you pay careful attention to the details). I was delighted that the mystery was the main focus of the book. Death Comes to the Fair is the fourth book in the series, but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel. I will unequivocally be reading the next book in A Kurland St. Mary Mystery series.

[purpledog-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Murder Comes to the Fair is the fourth book in the Kurland St. Mary Mystery Series by Catherine Lloyd. The story revolves around Lucy Harrington, the daughter of the rector, and her betrothed, the newly made baronet, Sir Robert Kurland. The trouble starts when Sir Robert is asked to judge the vegetables entered into the county fair. Against Lucy’s advice, he gives the majority of the prizes to Ezekiel Thurrock after insisting they are the best. Shortly after, Lucy finds Ezekiel dead. It appears that a gargoyle has fallen from the bell towel during a storm and struck Ezekiel. On the surface it appears to be a case of in the wrong place at the wrong time. Yet, something is not right and Lucy and Sir Robert suspect the cause of death is more than a falling gargoyle.Part of Sir Robert’s duty as the baronet was to act as the constable. With Lucy’s help they set out to discover what really happened. At first, they contemplate that the killer was jealous over Ezekiel’s’ prize vegetables. As they slowly unravel the mystery, they discover that jealously is only the tip of the iceberg in a feud that has been going on long before their births. The secrets they uncover put their very lives in danger.The story moves along rather nicely and has lots of twists. The characters are very likable and I loved that Lucy has such a strong personality. I suspect that Sir Robert will have his hands full upon their marriage. All in all, it was very entertaining and I look forward to reading the other books in the series.I received a copy of this book, via NetGalley, for my honest review.

[bemislibrary · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Set in the village of Kurland St. Mary in 1817, this is the fourth book in the series finds murder hindering the upcoming nuptials of Major Kurland and Lucy Harrington. Authentic to the period, the pace is reminiscence of the slower horse and buggy days. Major Kurland thinks planning for their wedding is taking forever and wants to elope. Lucy is concerned about the ramification on her family if they did elope. The major will not let town gossip, feuds, ruined reputations, and two murders spoil their wedding plan. There are enjoyable moments such as local reactions to the winners of best harvest vegetables. It was a very pleasant read.

[auntie0nanuuq · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

As I didn't like one of the main characters, Major Robert Kurland, I will not read another in this series.The Major & Rector's daughter embark on investigating the murder of a nasty, manipulative, gossiping, blackmailing harridan.... Soon one of the suspects is also found dead from what appears to be an accidental overdose.It was difficult to keep track of the characters as they were referred to back and forth by either their first name or Mr./Miss.... so it took a bit for me to figure this out...There is no lack of rude, stupid, or ugly characters.... and I didn't give a fig what happened to any of them, including the Rector's daughter, whom is suppose to be the heroine of this series.Waste of time.....

[lauren2013_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Death Comes to the Fair
4 Stars

When the verger of St. Mary's church is found dead after winning several prizes at the local fair, Lucy Harrington and her betrothed, Major Robert Kurland, are not convinced that the death was an accident. As some strange evidence emerges, Lucy and Robert uncover a centuries old vendetta that may have devastating consequences in their own lives.

Another enchanting installment in Lloyd's cozy-historical series. As with the previous books, it is the characterization rather than the mystery that is most appealing.

Much of the charm of this series is the witty banter between Lucy and the Major. This has not changed now that the two are engaged and their repartee is as delightful as ever.

Although the investigation into the verger's death appears trivial at first, it becomes more interesting as the motives for his murder begin to emerge and there are one or two truly suspenseful moments. That said, the ultimate explanation feels somewhat contrived and the identity of the villain is a surprise mainly due to the lack of clues along the way.

All in all, this is a wonderful series overall and this book is entertaining albeit not as good as the previous three. Looking forward to more of Lucy and Robert in the future.

[kathy89_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Slow start – too much vegetable talk. The verger is murdered after the local fair. His brother is staying at the vicarage and is suspiciously investigating old county records and interviewing local people trying to determine this history of the land. A little pouch was found on the dead man and it is believed that two sisters who live in St. Mary Kurland are witches. Needless to say, Lucy and the Major start investigating and then the verger’s brother is found dead. Penelope Chingford is staying at the rectory and quite cleverly manipulates Lucy into giving her gowns for her cooperation in the investigation.

[jamespurcell · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Not quite a team yet; Lucy and the Major investigate the death of the parish verger. Lots of ancient history and feuds are at play before the culprits are identified. Interesting characters and a good story make this a good series.

[newsieq · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

It’s fall of 1817 In Kurland St. Mary, England. Our heroine, Miss Lucy Harrington, is planning her wedding to Sir Robert Kurland, whom she helped nurse back to health following a serious leg injury at Waterloo. The rectory where Lucy lives with her father is a temporary home to Nathaniel Thurrock, brother of the church’s verger, Ezekiel. Nathaniel is researching the Thurrock family’s history in the area, and is becoming a real nuisance. But it’s Ezekiel, a much-loved character in the village, who’s murdered. Or is it an unfortunate accident? As if she doesn’t have enough on her plate with overseeing the household staff – including the dreadful (in more ways than one) cook, Mrs. Fielding -- and planning a wedding, now Miss Harrington also has a murder to solve. A second murder further complicates things for our heroine and her betrothed. And with the couple’s creeping about at night unchaperoned, both their reputations are in tatters. I found Death Comes to the Fair delightful, enough so that I went to my public library and picked up the first three books in the series. Although I started with book #4, the author included enough background that Death Comes to the Fair stands on its own.

[ROSVI C. GAETOS · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Not as good as the first one…the mystery is not fully explained and the romance part is weak and uninspiring. A lot of issues arising from the resolution of the murder remained unexplained and left hanging

[vesper1931 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

After winnning the majority of the vegetable prizes at the local fair the church verger, Ezekiel Thurrock, is found dead.
As the organisation for the London wedding proceeds Lucy Harrington and Sir Robert are concerned that it was not an accident, and during their investigation uncover long-standing village feuds, bringing danger to themselves.
Another well-written, enjoyable mystery in this series, with some lovely rounded characters. Can't wait for the next in the series.