In Farleigh Field: A Novel of World War II

"Instantly absorbing, suspenseful, romantic, and stylish--like binge-watching a great British drama on Masterpiece Theater." --Lee Child, New York Times bestselling author

Winner of the Left Coast Crime Award winner for Best Historical Mystery Novel and the Agatha Award for Best Historical Novel.

World War II comes to Farleigh Place, the ancestral home of Lord Westerham and his five daughters, when a soldier with a failed parachute falls to his death on the estate. After his uniform and possessions raise suspicions, MI5 operative and family friend Ben Cresswell is covertly tasked with determining if the man is a German spy. The assignment also offers Ben the chance to be near Lord Westerham's middle daughter, Pamela, whom he furtively loves. But Pamela has her own secret: she has taken a job at Bletchley Park, the British code-breaking facility.

As Ben follows a trail of spies and traitors, which may include another member of Pamela's family, he discovers that some within the realm have an appalling, history-altering agenda. Can he, with Pamela's help, stop them before England falls?

Inspired by the events and people of World War II, writer Rhys Bowen crafts a sweeping and riveting saga of class, family, love, and betrayal.

BUY THE BOOK

395 pages

Average rating: 7

18 RATINGS

|

Community Reviews

Anonymous
Jan 14, 2025
8/10 stars
I love WW2 historical fiction, especially when it takes place primarily in England. This stand alone mystery kept me guessing for most of the book as to who was the spy who was shot down, what exactly was the message he was carrying and most importantly who was the traitor in their midst. Even when I had an idea of who I was still intrigued to learn how it would work out. Enjoyed the characters and the plot. Could definitely recommend to fans of Downton Abbey. It was just jolly good fun to read.
melbeesue
Oct 16, 2023
8/10 stars
It took a bit for me to get into this story but soon I was hooked, and then once I finished the book, I found myself wanting more time with the characters. That's a good thing. This WWII thriller had an interesting cast within - the good, the bad and the ugly. Some of the story and action was pretty predictable, but I still enjoyed the journey with the family.

See why thousands of readers are using Bookclubs to stay connected.