The latest in a clever historical series featuring now retired DCI Henry Johnstone and his former partner Inspector Mickey Hitchens. Adams writes with a good sense of time and space- 1931 Lancashire>. The mysteries are twisty enough , the characters good. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Fine as a standalone. A nice way to spend a few hours.

This was a strong tenth entry in the Henry Johnstone 1930s Mystery series, it had that element that I was hoping for from the previous entries. The overall feel worked with the world and enjoyed the feel of this, and how the characters worked with this story. It uses the mystery element perfectly and was glad I got to read this. Jane A. Adams has that writing style that I was looking for and glad I got to read this.

Cold Bones is Book #10 in the wonderful Henry Johnstone 1930s Mystery series by Jane A. Adams.  Set in Lincolnshire in 1931, this gorgeously-written novel oozes atmosphere and sense of place with social mores and vernacular of the interwar period.  The characters are so utterly present, so...human.  Clever historical bits are multisensory and dazzled me right down to my toes.

Former Detective Inspector Henry Johnstone is physically recovering from injuries and while his body needs rest, his mind remains active.  Good thing as the six-month-old Johnstone Detective Agency must prioritize a three-year-old crime as well as a fresh murder and arson.  Henry's discontentment with detecting jobs here and there turn to something purposeful. What had been presumed true is now upended as a dying man makes a confession which changes everything.  Henry's lovely fiancée Cynthia is independent, an intelligent thinker and supports his investigations. But with a murderer on the loose, people are uneasy. Inspector Mickey Hitchens steps in to help his friend sift through the ashes. Helen's story is poignant, too.

My heart and mind were hooked by the first sentence and became deliciously spellbound as the time flew by. Cold Bones is unmissable for those seeking whip-smart and unforgettable writing. Each word has its place and is pure magic.

My sincere thank you to Severn House and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this captivating novel.