I don’t know what I’d do without Martin Edwards’ informative introductions when I read a British Library Crime Classic. He sets the scene, which in the case of E.C.R. Lorac’s Crook o’Lune is so important. He also provides the historical background. In this case, he even journeyed to the area, and stayed at the inn mentioned in the book. Such a tough job to provide the background!

Crook o’Lune is based partly on the author’s life in Lune Valley, and the house she calls Aikengill is the house she lived in at the time. The rural mystery is back in print for the first time since 1953. I would definitely agree that it’s a rural mystery because much of the slow-paced story describes the scenery and the peaceful life.

Gilbert Woolfall has inherited a remote farmhouse, Aikengill, from his uncle. He finds the area so tranquil that he’s contemplating an early retirement and life there in northwest England. But, his serene time there is interrupted by several people. One is the creepy Rector, Rev. Tupper, who is upset Gilbert’s uncle didn’t leave anything for the church. Daniel Herdwick, the owner of a nearby farm, also farms 200 acres of Aikengill, and would like first chance at buying it if Woolfall decides to sell. There’s even a young couple who would like to move in and tend to the house if Gilbert plans to stay. Since his housekeeper might leave to live with her cousin, that might work.

There really only is one thing disturbing the tranquil atmosphere. Local farmers have complained of the theft of sheep. When Robert Macdonald, a Chief Inspector with Scotland Yard’s C.I.D., arrives on vacation, he does hear about that. He’s only mildly interested until there’s a fire at Aikengill and someone dies.

Macdonald, Lorac’s series detective, often works with other police throughout England, and the local police force is happy to accept his help. Macdonald suspects the thefts and fire might be connected to history of the area. The history might be over four hundred years old, but families have long memories and carry grudges for centuries. And, the mischievous gossip can stir up trouble.

As I said, Crook o’Lune is slow-paced. However, I’ve come to enjoy these mysteries featuring Macdonald. While there’s not the kind of character development we’ve come to expect in contemporary mysteries, Lorac defines her characters well, and they’re of interest to the reader. If you’re interested in a scenic story, you might want to try Crook o’Lune.

Crook o’Lune: A Lancashire Mystery by E.C.R. Lorac. Poisoned Pen Press/Sourcebooks, 2023. ISBN 9781728278537 (paperback), 2880.

FTC Full Disclosure – I received an ARC so I could review the book for a journal.