Karen Baugh Menuhin

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About Karen Baugh Menuhin
Karen Menuhin, You can follow Karen Menuhin at https://karenmenuhin.com/
Member of the Crime Writers Association
Number 1 best selling author of The Heathcliff Lennox series
Prequel: Heathcliff Lennox - France 1918 (Paperback only, see KarenMenuhin.com for your free ebook)
Book 1 Murder at Melrose Court
Book 2 The Black Cat Murders
Book 3 The Curse of Braeburn Castle
Book 4 Death in Damascus
Book 5 The Monks Hood Murders
Book 6 The Tomb of the Chatelaine
Book 7 The Mystery of Montague Morgan
Book 8 The Birdcage Murders - due Sept 2022, available as pre-release
1920's, Cozy crime, Traditional Detectives, Downton Abbey - I love them!
Along with my family, my friends, my dog, and my cat.
At age 60 I decided to write. I don't know why but suddenly the stories came pouring out along with the characters.
Eccentric uncles, stalwart butlers, idiosyncratic servants, machinating Countesses, Mr Fogg the dog, little Tubbs the foundling kitten, and the hapless Major Heathcliff Lennox at the center of it all.
Suddenly a whole world built itself upon the page and I just followed along.
I've lived an itinerant life, always on the move having grown up in the military. My two sons are Jonathan and Sam Baugh who is married to Wendy and my grandchildren are Scarlett, Hugo, Charlie, Joshua and Isabella Rose. We are infinitely fortunate in each other.
My dear husband is Krov Menuhin, ex-US Special Forces, and documentary filmmaker. He is the eldest son of the violinist, Yehudi Menuhin.
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Titles By Karen Baugh Menuhin
Book 5 in the Heathcliff Lennox series
A scoundrel lies dying, he makes his confession; his sins were despicable, and he wants to atone for his wasted life. He bequeaths an invaluable gift to Monks Hood Abbey, an ancient monastery set in a lonely corner of the Yorkshire moors. But sin throws a long shadow and corruption crawls in its shade. Strangers come forward and lay claim to the monks' inheritance. The Abbot calls on Major Heathcliff Lennox and ex-Chief Inspector Swift to ask for their help.
They must go to Yorkshire to unravel the mayhem – but then there's mystery, and murder, and another adventure begins.
Major Heathcliff Lennox, ex-WW1 war pilot, six feet 3 inches, unruly dark blond hair, age around 30 - named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother - much to his great annoyance.
Amazon Reviews
Mel
5.0 out of 5 stars The Best so far
When Lennox and Swift are called to Monkshood Monastery, they have no idea how strange the case will be. This book is like a jigsaw puzzle: some pieces refer to Lennox's past, some pieces refer to the centuries old practices of the Benedictine monastery, some pieces refer to the misdeeds of the heretofore benefactor of the monastery, and his misguided attempt to atone for those misdeeds. There are multiple mysteries in this one "whodunit": who is the girl with the cornflower blue eyes? Is the Italian countess really who she says she it? Why does Brother Paul seem to have such a sinister influence over the monks working in the scriptorium? Where does Katharine Wexford fit into all of this? All of these pieces gradually fall into place as the author reveals the whole picture at the end of the book when all of the questions are answered, all of the mysteries solved...except for one: What about Persi? What a great read!!
Shirley Pearson
5.0 out of 5 stars Series Gets Better With Each New Book!
The Monks Hood Murders is #5 in the series about Major Heathcliff Lennox. He and former Chief Inspector Swift are called upon to solve the case of a missing Codex. Part of the reason I enjoyed this book was the description of Monks Hood Abbey, a place where I would be happy to spend time among its gardens, kitchen, library, and cloister. The descriptions of the Abbey are vivid, and help move the story along. I heartily recommend this series and am looking forward to another book featuring this wonderful cast of characters. For even more enjoyment, I suggest you start with Murder At Melrose Court and work your way through the series.
Norman J. Riddell
5.0 out of 5 stars Another winner for sure
I love this series-the main characters are so absolutely real. They say and do the kinds of things you would expect good and decent people to do when faced with extraordinary circumstances. The mysteries are very well crafted and the settings in each book in the series are completely different. Lennox answers the call to solve a problem, and he always has to pack either a small bag or a large trunk. The setting descriptions throw you right into the story and you go detecting right along with Swift, Lennox, Foggy and Greggs. So enjoyable. Can’t wait for the next one.
Major Heathcliff Lennox is called in, along with ex Detective Inspector Swift, to help the police investigate a macabre death. The dead man is Lord De Ruyter, a man inextricably linked to the notorious Birdcage Murders.
Nothing is as it appears, witnesses to De Ruyter's murder are not the strangers they purport to be, everyone present had a reason to be there and it all relates to the Birdcage Murders.
Book 8 in the Heathcliff Lennox series.
Major Heathcliff Lennox - ex WW1 war pilot, 6feet 3inch, tousled dark blond hair, age around 30 – named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother – much to his great annoyance.
Ladies man, dandy, charming rogue, thief. Montague Morgan has a buccaneering reputation and he doesn't give a damn – until he falls in love.
He has a plan, he needs money and he knows how to get it. He and his lover conspire to escape to exotic lands with stolen gold.
But the gold belongs to dangerous people and plans can go awry. Morgan disappears, has he escaped, or has he fallen prey to lethal retribution?
Lennox's friend, ex Chief Inspector Swift is embroiled, and Lennox steps in to help, but his wedding is fixed for Christmas Eve and it's only a few days away. As the mystery around Montague Morgan deepens, so the tension rises...
Major Heathcliff Lennox - ex WW1 war pilot, 6feet 3inch, tousled dark blond hair, age around 30 – named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother – much to his great annoyance.
Book 1 in the Heathcliff Lennox series
Couldn't put it down'. Humorous - did I say humorous?' 'And there's even a dog!' 'Cozy murder mystery at its best!' '
Love the setting, old country house, eccentric guests, snow and murder'. 'It's always the last one you thought - who dun it!
It's 1920 and Christmas is coming. Major Lennox finds a body on his doorstep - why on his doorstep? Was it to do with the Countess? Was it about the ruby necklace? Lennox goes to Melrose Court, home to his uncle, Lord Melrose, to uncover the mystery. But then the murders begin and it snows and it all becomes very complicated....
Major Heathcliff Lennox - ex WW1 war pilot, 6feet 3inch, tousled dark blond hair, age around 30 – named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother – much to his great annoyance.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY REVIEW Set in 1920 mostly at an English country house, Menuhin’s winning debut and series launch blends a golden age whodunit with dry Wodehousian humor. The brisk pacing and capable prose are impressive. Fans of lighthearted cozies will be delighted.
KIRKUS REVIEW - RECOMMEND - It’s 1920, and Major Heathcliff Lennox, a veteran of the First World War, receives distressing news from his butler, Greggs: There’s a dead man lying on his doorstep—truly an uncommon circumstance in sleepy rural England—which kicks off Menuhin’s often humorous story.
BOOKLIFE REVIEW- RECOMMEND - Fans of English interwar mysteries will delight in this whodunit, which is replete with eccentric gentry and servants, a drafty manor house, and plenty of witty exchanges.
Old Bindlestiff 5.0 out of 5 stars Rollicking good read
Intelligent and engaging protagonist surrounded by an unusual collection of eccentric suspects. A good book for a cold evening with the cat in your lap and a suitable libation at your elbow.
Sudha Raghavan 5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the most riveting mystery novelsLike other reviewers have said, it is Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle etc rolled into this novel. The Russian Revolution throws in an added twist.
Cathy Holmes 5.0 out of 5 stars
Delightful main character, dry humor, and detailed historical settings Did I say humorous? I hope this is the first of many.
Cheryl Leaf 5.0 out of 5 stars Hilarious!
One of the best books I have read in a long time. The writing is witty and laugh out loud funny. Major Lennox is part genius and part goofball.
Kindle Reader Ann 5.0 out of 5 stars Menuhin is close to genius.
Although I buy way too many Kindle books, and generally enjoy them greatly, I am far too slothful to write reviews. However, I simply had to make an exception for MURDER AT MELROSE COURT. A brilliant work! Witty, sardonic, sweet, clever. Wonderful plot, superb characters, very very clever, hilarious and touching at the same time. This work compares well with the British classics of the golden age. I hope that the author will continue to delight us with many more Lennox mysteries of this exceptional caliber.
Book 3 in the Heathcliff Lennox series.
A castle on a rock in a lonely Scottish loch, Braeburn has been crumbling for centuries. Someone tries to remedy the rot but uncovers a skeleton behind a wall. It wears a crown and hides a curse. Is it the ancient King of the Isles? Or is it Black Dougal? And why is it surrounded by mystery?
Book 6 in the Heathcliff Lennox series
A suspicious accident, a dead man's gun and a lost tomb. Strange events disturb the peace of Lanscombe Park, the magnificent country seat of Lord Godolphin Sinclair. Adventurer, gold prospector and arms dealer, Sinclair has spent a lifetime amassing a fortune with ruthless determination. He's a man frightened of nothing, until he receives a package from the distant past. Someone knows his secrets, they kill, and then they kill again. A game of cat and mouse is afoot, Major Heathcliff Lennox and ex Inspector Swift are called to Lanscombe Park to investigate.
Major Heathcliff Lennox, ex-WW1 war pilot, six feet 3 inches, unruly dark blond hair, age around 30 - named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother - much to his great annoyance.
Laineshots
5.0 out of 5 stars
I love this series. I have loved all of the books in it. But this one is just delicious! It has everything: a sumptuous English estate, a complicated hero, an antagonist you love to hate (is he hero or villain?), frustrated romance, beautiful surroundings, adorable animals, and a full set of quirky characters. It has spine-chilling ancient stories and modern (well, 1920s modern) threats, and fascinating bits of real history. It's not perfect, but it's close enough to be a darn good read, and I'm sure I'll read it again. I can't wait for the next one; this one left some tantalizing loose ends.
I enjoyed seeing Lennox begin to face some details of his own personal history that have made him a bit difficult. He has a long way to go, but he's getting there, and I suspect he is about to begin to accelerate.
Donna
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read!
I love everything about this series. The stories and dialogue just flow and it's hard to put down until the last word has been read. The descriptive text makes me feel like I'm in the characters very presence. How fun it is to envision each of their little quirks and foibles and to be comforted by Mr. Fogg and Tubbs.
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars love these books.
Love these books. Light, Funny, sweet and nostalgic . Even though they bring to mind Wodehouse they are totally their own creation and landscape. I only hope the next book arrives soon. Selfish I know. The fact is-- it was such a relief to disappear into the world of Heathcliff Lennox this past year. I know I am not alone in loving these books and author. I belong to a mystery page on face book that has been raving about them too ..
'Downton Abbey meets Agatha Christie with a touch of Wodehouse and a dog of distinction.'
Book 2 in The Heathcliff Lennox series
Who killed Sir Crispin Gibbons? A wedding invitation and news of mischief that could be murder, takes Lennox to the Earl of Bloxford's country pile. He soon finds himself in a world of purloined artworks, forgeries and a priceless Bloxford Beauty. But who are the Bloxford Beauties? And why are they the focal point around which swirls death? Lennox must confront life-long friends, unscrupulous artists and dealers to finally unravel a plot so complex that even his old adversary, Chief Inspector Swift of Scotland Yard, is befuddled.
Major Heathcliff Lennox, ex-WW1 war pilot, six feet 3 inches, unruly dark blond hair, age around 30 - named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother - much to his great annoyance.
Amazon reviews
Kindle CustomerSally Hutcheson 5 stars
Excellent Mystery Don't pick up unless you have time to read it all She does not give away "who done it" until the very end and it still makes sense. I love her characters and hopes she finds time to write a lot more books.
Kindle Customer 5 stars
Fast paced mysteryVery well written and fast paced. A very good page turner. Did not see the end coming. Highly recommend this series. I read book three before this in error which led to a small bit of confusion but no real problem.
Kindle Customer Kathryn Loewenstein
What fun this book was! Delightful story...kept me laughing at times and thoroughly entertained. Really if one wants an entertaining mystery, this is it! Hope everyone will enjoy this book as much as I did!
Cat100 5 stars Terrific cozy English house mystery!I
Absolutely loved this book! It was really hard to put down. The characters were all so great. I can't get enough of the old fashioned English house party mystery.
Kindle Customer 5 stars
An Agatha or Dorothy Sayres style that I thought went out of fashion In these days Well done, satisfying, wanting the next one! I will heartedly recommend. Puzzle without gore, depressive scenes, or bodily fluids. Well done!
Vicki Oliver 5 stars
Well done second mystery with Heathcliff Lennox Karen Baugh Menuhin's second mystery with WWI veteran Heathcliff Lennox is perfect for fans of traditional detective mysteries. The waning life of post-war England is spot on--the loyal servants, some of whom served as bat men in the war, the ambiance of old crumbling manor houses, the dialogue--all make the book a delightful read. Mr. Fogg, Lennox's sweet dog, is joined by Mr. Tubbs, an orphaned cat. Inspector Swift re-appears, much to both men's dismay. Ms. Menuhin has a way of incorporating touches of Downtown Abbey with war details along with humor. I read this book via Kindle Unlimited but have added it permanently to my library for re-reading again (and again).
There's a damsel in distress and accusations of attempted murder flying around, but it's not in the comfortable confines of the English countryside, it's in the very distant city of Damascus.
Lennox must go and investigate, although he's not too keen on exotic locations, and his old retainer, Greggs is distinctly averse to the very idea. Nevertheless, ex-Chief Inspector Swift persuades them and they reach the ancient city to discover a movie crew, a spy and a couple of mysterious ladies. Nobody seems to be telling the truth, they all have secrets, and there's one secret in particular that's drawn them like bees to the honeypot. But what is it? And then there's murder, and mysteries from the ancient past, and a handsome Sheik who remains in the shadows. Heathcliff Lennox and Swift must investigate and use all their ingenuity to unravel the enigma that lies hidden deep below the dusty streets of ancient Damascus.
Major Heathcliff Lennox, ex-WW1 war pilot, six feet 3 inches, unruly dark blond hair, age around 30 - named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother - much to his great annoyance. Death in Damascus is the fourth book in the Lennox series.
Carolyn J. Collins 5.0 out of 5 stars Loved it! Format: Kindle Edition Another great adventure Karen Menuhin! Was not disappointed. Loved it!! Lennox is my hero! Looking forward to the next one!
Dorothea C.5.0 out of 5 stars Fun and lively read Love this series. So glad I found this author. A fast romp thru Damascus with our hero Heathcliff. Wonderful descriptions of the city, the food and the people, all with a touch of humor. Finished it in one sitting. Waiting for the next installment of our intrepid group of investigators.
Laura Seaman5.0 out of 5 stars Can't wait for the next one!! Format: Kindle EditionI love these books! I wanted to write 'they get better and better' but from the very first they were excellent! Quirky characters I can't help but adore, and mysteries that make sense, but only after Lennox explains it to me. I hope this series goes on and on!
Juliette Moody 5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent story telling Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2020 Format: Kindle Edition I loved this one the most of all 4 of her books. Ms Menuhin truly draws you into her stories. I stayed up late to read this book and got it the day it cam out and I'm sorry it's over. I love history and archeology and things Middle eastern. I could smell the smells and taste the baklava.
Reader of good books 5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant and entertaining Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 12, 2020 Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase This is another winner in this set. Characters are delightful. Major Lennox is the most lovable sleuth ever . The character of his sidekick Swift is described brilliantly by the tightening of the belt of his trenchcoat. What a great series and with a promise of another book to come! Can't wait. Just hope Heathcliff ends up with a lady worthy of him, he Is the greatest! A wonderful light hearted read.
Ette5.0 out of 5 stars Lennox does it again Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 9 March 2020 Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase Another great adventure from Lennox and friends. This time 'abroad' :) There are some very funny quirky characters in this new book. As usual all highly entertaining. And poor Lennox is faced yet again with a crime to solve. But at least he's enjoying the new type of food.
Spring, 1918. The Great War is at a crucial stage, the Germans are making one last push into France and the Allies are struggling to hold them back.
Battle lines are shifting and men, and their machines, are being sent up and down the front to shore up defences.
Major Heathcliff Lennox, and his batman Greggs, are told to report to their new HQ.
They set off on a sunlit day to fly the distance, but the enemy is never far away, and disaster strikes. They're sent crashing to the ground behind enemy lines, where life, death and love await.
Major Heathcliff Lennox, WW1 war pilot, six feet 3 inches, tousled, dark blond hair, named after the hero of Wuthering Heights by his romantically minded mother - much to his great annoyance.
2 Book set - Downton Abbey meets Agatha Christie with a touch of Wodehouse and a dog of distinction.
What readers are saying... Couldn't put it down'. Humorous - did I say humorous?' 'And there's even a dog!' 'Cozy murder mystery at its best!' 'Love the setting, old country house, eccentric guests, snow and murder'. 'It's always the last one you thought - who dun it!
Book 1: Murder at Melrose Court is the first book in the Heathcliff Lennox series. It's 1920 and Christmas is coming. Major Lennox finds a body on his doorstep - why on his doorstep? Was it to do with the Countess? Was it about the ruby necklace? Lennox goes to Melrose Court home to his uncle, Lord Melrose, to uncover the mystery. But then the murders begin and it snows and it all becomes very complicated....
Book 2: The Black Cat Murders is the second book in the Heathcliff Lennox series. Who killed Sir Crispin Gibbons? A wedding invitation and news of mischief that could be murder, takes Lennox to the Earl of Bloxford's country pile. He soon finds himself in a world of purloined artworks, forgeries and a priceless Bloxford Beauty. But who are the Bloxford Beauties? And why are they the focal point around which swirls death?Lennox must confront life-long friends, unscrupulous artists and dealers to finally unravel a plot so complex that even his old adversary, Chief Inspector Swift of Scotland Yard, is befuddled.
Amazon ReviewsOld Bindlestiff 5.0 out of 5 stars Rollicking good readIntelligent and engaging protagonist surrounded by an unusual collection of eccentric suspects. A good book for a cold evening with the cat in your lap and a suitable libation at your elbow.Sudha Raghavan 5.0 out of 5 stars One of the most riveting mystery novelsLike other reviewers have said, it is Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle etc rolled into this novel. The Russian Revolution throws in an added twist.Cathy Holmes 5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful main character, dry humor, and detailed historical settings Did I say humorous? I hope this is the first of many.Cheryl Leaf 5.0 out of 5 stars Hilarious!One of the best books I have read in a long time. The writing is witty and laugh out loud funny. Major Lennox is part genius and part goofball.Kindle Reader Ann 5.0 out of 5 stars Menuhin is close to genius.Although I buy way too many Kindle books, and generally enjoy them greatly, I am far too slothful to write reviews. However, I simply had to make an exception for MURDER AT MELROSE COURT. A brilliant work! Witty, sardonic, sweet, clever. Wonderful plot, superb characters, very very clever, hilarious and touching at the same time. This work compares well with the British classics of the golden age. I hope that the author will continue to delight us with many more Lennox mysteries of this exceptional caliber.Rick Wilson 4.0 out of 5 stars Well-structured, very period correct, with cleverly drawn characters.Mrs. Menuhin has produced a thoroughly enjoyable, clever, highly engaging story. Peopled with both likable and despicable characters.Die Toten von Melrose Court: Ein englischer Weihnachtskrimi in den 1920ern. Historischer Kriminalroman, Heathcliff Lennox (Deutsch)
Buch 1 der Heathcliff Lennox Reihe
'Hier trifft Downtown Abbey auf Agatha Christie, den merklichen Einfluss von Wodehouse und einen ganz besonderen Hund.“
"Habe es verschlungen!“
“Lustig — habe ich gerade wirklich lustig gesagt?!“
"Cooler Hund!“
"Ein genialer Krimi um es sich für einige Stunden gemütlich zu machen.“
"Allein die Atmosphäre: ein Haufen Exzentriker in einem Herrenhaus des englischen Landadels, Lockdown im Schnee — und unter ihnen ein Mörder….“
"Am Ende waren es immer diejenigen, von denen man es am allerwenigsten erwartet hätte. Ein Klassiker.“
Kurz vor Weihnachten 1920: Vor der Haustür von Major Lennox liegt eine Leiche — wieso musste der Mann ausgerechnet hier sterben? Was hat das mit der russischen Gräfin zu tun? Was mit dem alten Rubincollier? Lennox will die Weihnachtstage auf Melrose Court, dem Landsitz seines Onkels Lord Melrose verbringen, doch dort wird es richtig kompliziert. Unter der eingeschneiten, abgeschotteten Gesellschaft treibt ein Mörder sein Unwesen…
Major Heathcliff Lennox — ein Weltkriegs-Pilot um die 30, mit 1,90m und seinem blonden Wuschelkopf eine imposante Erscheinung, doch zu seinem Unmut von seiner romantisch veranlagten Mutter nach dem innerlich zerrissenen, aber intelligenten Antihelden des britischen Klassikers Wuthering Heights benannt. Nach einer Verkettung unglücklicher Umstände findet er sich unerwartet in der Rolle des Detektivs wieder.
Die Toten von Melrose Court ist das erste Buch der Heathcliff Lennox-Murder-Mystery-Reihe von Karen Baugh Menuhin und das erste in deutscher Übersetzung.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY REVIEW
Menuhin's gelungenes Debüt spielt in einem englischen Landhaus in den 20er Jahren. Das erste Buch der Krimi-Serie kombiniert den Stil und die Atmosphäre dieser Jahre mit bissigem, trockenen Humor. Die rasante, raffinierte Abfolge der Ereignisse und die packende Sprache überzeugen. Wer es sich gerne gemütlich macht, mit dem Protagonisten spekuliert und schmunzelt, ist gut beraten dieses Buch zu lesen.
KIRKUS REVIEW EMPFIEHLT
Es ist das Jahr 1920 und Major Heathcliff Lennox, ein Veteran des ersten Weltkriegs, bekommt von seinem Butler Greggs schlechte Nachrichten überbracht: Vor seiner Haustür liegt eine Leiche. Und dieser ungewöhnliche Vorfall im verschlafen-dörflichen England ist nur der Anfang einer Reihe von miteinander verbundenen Ereignissen und der Beginn von Menuhins humorvollem Krimivergnügen.
BOOKLIFE REVIEW EMPFIEHLT
Ein Hochgenuss für Fans englischer Kriminalliteratur der zwanziger Jahre, gespickt mit exzentrischen wie überspannten Adligen und Bediensteten, einem zugigen Herrenhaus und vielen witzigen Wortwechseln.