Dead in Devon is an enthralling smalltown crime fiction novel from Stephanie Austin set in the small town of Ashburton in Devon and focusing on Juno Browne who runs her own 'Domestic Goddess' business. Juno is prepared to do whatever chores her clients request, from dog walking, cleaning, pet-sitting, gardening and meeting the needs of the elderly. Living with Adam and Kate, her landlords, money is tight but Juno loves her life and she has some good friends. When Mr Nickolai (Nick), an elderly Russian antiques dealer asks for her help in cleaning many of his antiques, she accepts the job because she likes him, despite being warned of his criminal activities. But when she arrives at Nick's place one day she discovers something truly terrible... he has been murdered. When the police investigation starts to falter Juno desperately wants to know what happened to Nick, in spite of the obstacles and any dangers that could emerge. When she discovers another murdered body, partially submerged in a pond, and Juno herself is the subject of unwanted attention, she knows she must find the perpetrator before she becomes the next victim. This was a fabulous read that I thoroughly enjoyed from the very beginning. Juno was a spirited and resourceful character with a caring and warm nature, taking the time to help her friends and clients, regardless of their personality traits. The icing on the cake for me in Dead in Devon was Stephanie Austin's super characterisation, including the quirky supporting cast, such as the decidedly unpleasant Verbena Clarke and the irascible Maisie. The mystery itself was well plotted and held a few surprises, with plenty of suspects for discerning armchair detectives to select from. All in all, this is was a light and immensely entertaining read. I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Allison & Busby via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.

I’ve been going to Devon for years so to actually find a book based around the area, particularly Dartmoor, was very exciting. I found it so hard to put this book down and in some of the scenes, I was so scared for Juno and was on the edge of my seat! There’s so many surprises and twists in this book and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it! So much in fact that I went to order the next one as soon as possible!