Death in the Stars

Private investigator Kate Shackleton receives an unusual request to accompany a famous singer to view a solar eclipse in 1927. The event takes place at Giggleswick School in Yorkshire, where a group has gathered to witness this astronomical phenomenon. What begins as a scientific excursion transforms into a complex investigation when Kate becomes entangled in mysterious circumstances surrounding the eclipse viewers. The case leads her through Yorkshire's theaters and music halls as she pursues answers about unexplained events and suspicious characters. The novel creates a portrait of 1920s England, from the excitement around astronomical events to the vibrant world of music hall entertainment. Kate navigates both high society and working-class circles while uncovering connections between seemingly unrelated incidents. This entry in the Kate Shackleton series explores themes of performance - both on stage and in daily life - while examining how people choose which truths to reveal and which to keep hidden.

Readers find Death in the Stars provides solid historical detail about 1920s Yorkshire and the 1927 solar eclipse. Kate Shackleton's investigation unfolds at a moderate pace, with readers noting authentic period atmosphere. Readers appreciated: - Well-researched eclipse and theater settings - Complex supporting characters - Kate's methodical detective work - Incorporation of real historical events Common criticisms: - Plot moves too slowly in middle sections - Some side characters lack development - Mystery resolution feels rushed - Historical details occasionally overshadow the core mystery Review Scores: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (274 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (127 ratings) Notable Reader Comments: "The theater backdrop and eclipse details make this stand out from typical historical mysteries" - Amazon reviewer "Middle section drags with too many inconsequential conversations" - Goodreads reviewer "Kate remains an engaging sleuth but the pacing needed work" - NetGalley review

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The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths An archaeologist helps police investigate the death of a child in Norfolk's saltmarshes, blending ancient history with modern crime.

A Man of Some Repute by Elizabeth Edmondson A spy-turned-investigator looks into a cold case at an English manor house during the winter of 1953.

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🌟 The book is set against the backdrop of the 1927 total solar eclipse, a real historical event that drew thousands of spectators to Yorkshire, England. 🔍 Author Frances Brody's real name is Frances McNeil, and she began her writing career as a playwright before turning to mystery novels. 📚 This is the ninth book in the Kate Shackleton mystery series, featuring a female private detective in 1920s Yorkshire - a time when female investigators were extremely rare. 🎭 The story incorporates elements of the music hall entertainment industry, which was beginning to decline in the 1920s due to competition from cinema and radio. 🌍 The novel's plot was partially inspired by real accounts of eclipse-chasers from the early 20th century, who would travel great distances to witness these astronomical events.