An Unmarked Grave: A Bess Crawford Mystery

“A wonderful new mystery series that will let us see the horrors of World War I through the eyes of Bess Crawford, battlefield nurse.”
—Margaret Maron

“Readers who can’t get enough of Jacqueline Winspear’s novels, or Hester Latterly, who saw action in the Crimean War in a series of novels by Anne Perry, are bound to be caught up in the adventures of Bess Crawford.”
—New York Times Book Review

The critically acclaimed, New York Times bestselling author of the Ian Rutledge mystery series, Charles Todd once again spotlights World War I nurse Bess Crawford in An Unmarked Grave. Gripping, powerful, and evocative, this superb mystery masterwork unfolds during the deadly Spanish Influenza pandemic of 1918, as Bess discovers the body of a murdered British officer among the many dead and sets out to unmask a craven killer.

In the spring of 1918, the Spanish flu epidemic spreads, killing millions of soldiers and civilians across the globe. Overwhelmed by the constant flow of wounded soldiers coming from the French front, battlefield nurse Bess Crawford must now contend with hundreds of influenza patients as well.

However, war and disease are not the only killers to strike. Bess discovers, concealed among the dead waiting for burial, the body of a murdered officer—a man who not only served in her father's former regiment but was also a family friend.

Before she can report the terrible news, Bess falls ill, the latest victim of the flu. By the time she recovers, the officer has been buried, and the only other person who saw the body has hanged himself. Or did he?

Using her father's connections in the military, Bess begins to piece together what little evidence she can find to unmask the elusive killer and see justice served. But she must be as vigilant as she is tenacious. With a determined killer on her heels, each move Bess makes could be her last.

“Highly recommended—well-rounded, believable characters, a multi-layered plot solidly based on human nature, all authentically set in the England of 1917, make A Bitter Truth an outstanding and riveting read.” - Stephanie Laurens, New York Times bestselling author

“Outstanding.” - Publishers Weekly (starred review) on A Bitter Truth

“Outstanding” - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Find some cures for the post-Downton Abbey blues ... Charles Todd has been producing a series of highly praised detective novels set in the years immediately after World War I.” - Tulsa World Scene

“Engaging…highly recommended for fans of wartime mysteries, plucky women sleuths like Maisie Dobbs, and the DOWNTON ABBEY television series.” - Library Journal

“A wonderful new mystery series that will let us see the horrors of World War I through the eyes of Bess Crawford, a battlefield nurse.” - Margaret Maron

“Bess Crawford is a strong and likable character.” - Washington Times

“Todd employs all the elements of a satisfying cozy mystery, with an absorbing plot and a charismatic heroine that will leave the reader wanting more.” - Library Journal

‘Todd has a sharp eye for scene and character, and he surrounds his leading lady with a lively cast.” - Washington Times

“One of the best the Todds have ever written.” - Star News Online

“Charles Todd has demonstrated mastery over this period of history” - New York Journal of Books

“Vivid period mystery series.” - New York Times Book Review on AN UNMARKED GRAVE

“Melded with superbly imagined characters and memorably moving writing, Todd’s latest is another triumph, rendered with grace. And with each installment, Bess’ stature as a heroine to cherish soars.” - Richmond Times-Dispatch

“Todd’s novels are known for compelling plotting with a thoughtful whodunit aspect, rich characterization, evocative prose and haunting atmosphere.” - Richmond Times-Dispatch