Cherringham - A Cosy Crime Series Compilation

I’ll admit, I approached *Cherringham* skeptical of yet another ‘cosy crime’ series, but Costello’s writing and Dudgeon’s narration won me over within the first chapter. Dudgeon’s performance is *exceptional*—he doesn’t just read the lines, he *inhabits* them. Jack’s New York cynicism comes through in every sarcastic quip, while Sarah’s wit feels effortlessly modern. The production quality is polished, with clear audio and just enough atmospheric touches (a distant church bell, a pub’s murmur) to ground the stories without distracting. The cases themselves are a mixed bag, but in the best way: some lean into classic locked-room puzzles (the poisoned vicar in *Murder at the Manor* is a standout), while others, like the cyberbullying-driven *Death Comes to Cherringham*, feel ripped from today’s headlines. My only critique? A few resolutions rely too heavily on last-minute revelations rather than clues the listener could piece together. And while the village’s recurring cast adds warmth, one or two characters (looking at you, the bumbling constable) veer into caricature. Still, the series’ balance of humor, heart, and genuine tension makes it a cut above. If you love *Midsomer Murders* but wish it had more edge—or if you’re tired of crime fiction that takes itself too seriously—this is your next listen.