Kate Shackleton Mysteries by Frances Brody: The Perfect Christmas Gift for Crime Fiction Fans

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for a mystery lover? Discover why Frances Brody's Kate Shackleton historical crime novels make an unforgettable festive present.

If you're searching for a Christmas present that will delight lovers of classic crime fiction, look no further than the wonderfully atmospheric Kate Shackleton Mysteries by acclaimed British author Frances Brody.

For readers who adore clever puzzles, richly drawn characters and beautifully evoked historical settings, this series is one of the finest examples of modern historical crime writing. Better still, with more than a dozen novels to enjoy, a Kate Shackleton book could be the start of a gift that keeps giving well beyond Christmas Day.

Set primarily in 1920s and early 1930s Yorkshire, the series follows Kate Shackleton, a determined and intelligent private investigator. Inspired by her own search for answers following the disappearance of her husband during the First World War, Kate develops a reputation for solving mysteries that leave the police baffled. 

Each novel combines an intriguing whodunnit with fascinating glimpses into post-war Britain, where society was changing rapidly and women were beginning to forge new roles for themselves.

Frances Brody has a remarkable talent for transporting readers into another era. From windswept Yorkshire villages and bustling market towns to grand country houses and elegant seaside resorts, every setting feels authentic. The historical detail never overwhelms the story but enriches it, making each mystery as enjoyable for history lovers as it is for crime enthusiasts.

The series begins with Dying in the Wool, where Kate is asked to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a mill owner who vanished years earlier. What starts as a missing person enquiry soon uncovers long-buried secrets, hidden motives and murder. It is a superb introduction to Kate and her world.

As the series progresses, readers become familiar with Kate's loyal assistant Jim Sykes, her housekeeper Mrs Sugden and an ever-growing cast of memorable characters. Whether she's investigating a jewel theft, an industrial conspiracy, a country house murder or mysterious deaths in the Yorkshire Dales, Kate approaches every case with intelligence, compassion and quiet determination.

Fans of Agatha Christie will feel instantly at home. The books feature intricate plots, believable suspects, satisfying twists and fair-play mysteries that invite readers to solve the crime alongside the detective. Yet Kate Shackleton is very much her own character, independent, resourceful and refreshingly modern for her time.

A boxed set or a small collection of the first few novels would make a thoughtful Christmas gift for anyone who enjoys cosy mysteries, historical fiction or classic detective stories. Add a cosy blanket, a mug of hot chocolate and a packet of mince pies, and you've created the perfect festive reading hamper.

As winter evenings draw in and Christmas offers the chance to slow down, few pleasures compare to curling up with a gripping mystery. Frances Brody's Kate Shackleton novels provide exactly that: compelling stories, memorable characters and enough twists to keep readers guessing until the very last page.

This Christmas, give the mystery lover in your life a gift they'll treasure, and introduce them to one of Yorkshire's most engaging fictional detectives.

I am reading through the series and find them first rate mystery novels. 

One Story, Two Books: New Family Book Subscription Brings Generations Together Through Reading

Discover the new One Story, Two Books subscription that delivers matching adult and children's editions each month, helping families share stories, conversations and a love of reading together.

In a world where screens often compete for everyone's attention, a new online book subscription is encouraging families to reconnect through something far more timeless – a great story.

Launching this July, a newly established online bookstore has unveiled an imaginative subscription service that delivers two versions of the same story each month: one for adults and another specially adapted for younger readers. The idea is simple but inspiring – allowing families to enjoy the same adventure at their own reading level before coming together to talk about it.

Designed for children aged seven and above, with options for advanced readers aged five and over, the subscription pairs a full adult edition with a carefully selected children's adaptation. Whether shared between parents, grandparents, carers, aunts, uncles or godparents, the service aims to make reading a regular family tradition once again.

Rather than everyone disappearing into separate digital worlds, families can enjoy the excitement of following the same characters, discussing favourite moments and debating the choices made by the story's heroes and villains. Even if one reader sneaks ahead, there's still plenty to talk about once everyone reaches the final page.

The idea grew from a simple observation that while families want to spend more quality time together, modern life often gets in the way. During their research, the bookstore's team discovered a wealth of classic novels and well-loved stories that had been thoughtfully adapted for younger readers without losing the heart of the original tale.

Every monthly package is designed to make the experience feel like more than simply receiving two books. Subscribers receive matching bookmarks, personalised ownership stickers, book review sheets for both adult and child, conversation prompts to spark lively discussions, a mystery envelope to open after finishing the books, exclusive stickers, a personal letter from the company's self-described "Chief Everything Officer", and a selection of surprise book-themed gifts.

The first subscription closes on 28 July, with the inaugural boxes due to be dispatched on 1 August.

At a time when reading for pleasure has become an increasing concern among educators and parents alike, initiatives that encourage families to read together feel especially welcome. Shared stories not only help develop literacy and imagination but also create meaningful conversations that continue long after the final chapter has been turned.

Sometimes, all it takes is one story, two books and a little curiosity to bring generations together. In an age dominated by notifications and streaming services, that may be one of the most magical adventures of all.

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Craftland by James Fox Review. Britain's Lost Arts and Vanishing Trades

Discover why James Fox's Craftland is a fascinating celebration of Britain's disappearing crafts, traditional skills and the people determined to keep them alive.

In an age dominated by automation, artificial intelligence and mass production, it is easy to forget that Britain was once defined by the remarkable skills of the people who made things with their own hands.

 In Craftland: A Journey Through Britain's Lost Arts and Vanishing Trades, acclaimed art historian and broadcaster James Fox sets out to rediscover that forgotten world, and what he finds is both inspiring and deeply moving.

Travelling from the Isles of Scilly to the Scottish Highlands, Fox meets many of Britain's remaining master craftspeople. From blacksmiths and wheelwrights to coopers, bell-founders, watchmakers and stone wallers, he uncovers stories of dedication, patience and extraordinary expertise that have often been passed down through generations.

Rather than presenting these traditional trades as museum pieces, Fox reveals them as living skills that continue to have value in the modern world. Many of the people he meets reject the idea that they are simply preserving history. 

They are professionals who continue to earn a living through craftsmanship that demands precision, creativity and years of experience.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to connect the reader with Britain's rich regional heritage. Every county and community once had its own specialist trades, many of which helped shape local identity.Fox demonstrates how these crafts built towns, supported families and created objects designed to last for generations rather than years.

The writing is engaging, accessible and filled with fascinating encounters. Fox's enthusiasm is infectious, making readers appreciate the beauty hidden in everyday objects that most of us rarely stop to consider. Whether describing the careful construction of a dry-stone wall or the intricate mechanics of handmade watches, he reminds us that true craftsmanship combines knowledge, patience and passion.

At its heart, Craftland asks an important question: what do we lose when these skills disappear? The answer extends far beyond the objects themselves. Traditional crafts preserve stories, communities, identities and ways of thinking that cannot simply be replaced by machines.

For readers who enjoy history, British culture, traditional skills, or beautifully observed travel writing, Craftland is an absorbing and rewarding read. It is both a celebration of those keeping endangered trades alive and a thoughtful reminder that progress does not always mean leaving the past behind.

James Fox has produced a book that encourages us to look more closely at the makers around us and to value the remarkable human skill behind the objects we often take for granted. In doing so, Craftland becomes much more than a history of traditional crafts—it is a love letter to Britain's ingenuity, resilience and creativity.

Rating: ★★★★★

A BBC Radio Four Book of the Week, we can heartily recommend this book, it will make an excellent Christmas gift.

You can buy it from our Amazon-powered shop at a discounted price:- https://amzn.to/4vf1jwy

Celebrating International Book Giving Day

Because stories and ideas are meant to be shared.

International Book Giving Day, marked each year on 14 February, is a gentle reminder that books are one of the most meaningful gifts we can give. 

Whether it’s a brand-new picture book, a much-loved paperback, or a surprise novel slipped onto a friend’s doorstep, the day is all about spreading the joy of reading – without pressure, price tags, or pretence.

Why book giving matters

A book can educate, comfort, distract, inspire, or simply offer a few quiet minutes away from the world. For children especially, receiving a book can spark a lifelong love of reading. For adults, it can feel like being truly seen – “I thought you’d like this.”

International Book Giving Day encourages us to think beyond ourselves and remember that not everyone has easy access to books at home.

Simple ways to take part

You don’t need to do anything elaborate. Small gestures are very much the point:

Gift a book to a child – a new title or a gently used favourite

Donate books to schools, libraries, food banks, or charities such as Book Aid International https://bookaid.org

Leave a book somewhere public with a note inviting someone to enjoy it

Post a book to a friend “just because”

Share a recommendation on social media and encourage others to do the same

Even one book can make a difference.

A lovely excuse to talk about reading

For book lovers, the day is also a chance to celebrate stories and ideas themselves. It’s a great prompt to revisit childhood favourites, support local bookshops, or finally pass on that novel you couldn’t stop talking about.

At That’s Books and More, we love anything that puts books into more hands and more homes. International Book Giving Day isn’t about grand gestures – it’s about kindness, connection, and the quiet magic of a good read finding the right reader.

So if you’re looking for a thoughtful way to mark the day, skip the chocolates and share a story instead.