Devon murder mystery author to sign copies of her latest thriller at Otter Garden Centre

A talented Devon author will be at Otter Garden Centre in Ottery St Mary to sign copies of her exciting new mystery novel, A Devon Midwinter Murder.

It's the seventh book in Stephanie Austin’s Devon Mysteries series, which is set in Ashburton and features ‘domestic goddess’ and amateur sleuth, Juno Browne.

The series, which includes Dead in Devon and The Dartmoor Murders, was inspired by Stephanie’s own experiences from her varied career, from teacher to artist, astrologer and dabbler in antiques.

In the latest story, Juno is helping to organise a Christmas Fair to raise funds for a local animal sanctuary. But even as Santa is handing out presents in the fairy-lit grotto, a murder is being committed in a dark corner of the garden. Juno discovers the body of Bob the Blacksmith, found clutching a horseshoe decorated with a sprig of elder.

Suspicion falls on Bob’s longsuffering wife, Jackie, and on Don Drummond, with whom Bob violently quarrelled in the past. From this cloud of suspicion, Juno begins to make connections between Bob’s murder and previous ‘accidental’ deaths, but her course is obstructed by those who insist on links to ancient folklore. Determined to take the evidence with a generous pinch of salt, Juno navigates pagan ceremonies and astrological connections that turn up yet more bodies on a deadly path to the truth.

A Devon Midwinter Murder is an ideal read for the season. Combining murder, mystery and intrigue, it is a perfect cosy crime novel to curl up with under a blanket on a winter’s evening.

Otter Marketing Manager, Chris Amphlett says “We’re very excited to be welcoming Stephanie to the garden centre; a signed hardback would make a great Christmas present for keen readers!”

 Stephanie will be at the garden centre on Tuesday December 12 between 2pm and 4pm, where her books will be available to purchase. She said: '’I'm really looking forward to visiting Otter and have the chance to chat to readers and talk about my latest book.”

For more information visit the garden centre's website.