Without any of the fanfare that she deserves, Philly Barker’s latest adventure is now live on most online platforms. If, however, you prefer to hold your books in your hand (hey, I hear you!), print-on-demand will be another week away.
If you’re not yet acquainted with Philly and her friends, here’s the deal:
If you love the TV shows The Great British Bake-off, Antiques Roadshow, and Midsomer Murders, and you like your crime without the gory bits, you’ll love this charming cosy crime series set in the fictional Yorkshire village of Chipwell.
Chipwell is one of those villages with a pub – The Chipwell Arms – a church and some stone cottages. Mostly though, it’s home to Chipwell Barn Antique Centre – and its cast of quirky dealers.
The Philly Barker mysteries star Philomena Barker, a middle-aged antique dealer and accidental investigator. Philly is ably assisted by her cocker spaniel, Balthazar; her sidekick, Inspector Robbie Dawkins; and the quirky dealers from Chipwell Barn Antiques.
There’s Ambrose and Eugene – the septuagenarian tweed-loving militaria traders – and their cranky cat Rochester; Simon, the furniture man, and his succession of heavy-metal band t-shirts; cat-like Bell who sells vintage fashion and accessories; and the Proctors – Tamsin and Henry – who deal in antiques meant for the outdoors and who remind Philly a little of Tom and Barbara Good from The Good Life. Finally, there’s Ginny, who runs the teahouse at the barn and produces amazing scones, pies, and parkin.
As for Philly Barker Is On The Case? Here’s the blurb:
When Chipwell antique dealer Philomena Barker is asked by Detective Inspector Robbie Dawkins to assist with identifying some stolen antiques, she’s only too happy to help.
It’s not long before Philly and Robbie identify a pattern – someone is breaking into the homes of elderly farmers in North Yorkshire and stealing their treasured antiques.
The investigation takes a deadly turn when their prime suspect is murdered, and Philly and Robbie will need all the help they can get if they’re to solve this puzzle.
With Robbie due to retire this case will be his last; but with the murderer one step ahead can Philly solve the case before it’s also her last?
