Murder at Donwell Abbey

An Emma Knightley Mystery, Book 2

By: Vanessa Kelly

Narrated by: Polly Lee

Emma's spirits are elevated after she and husband George Knightley host a joyful holiday celebration at the Hartfield estate. But it's instantly a bitter January when her father makes an unexpected announcement—he and Miss Hetty Bates have decided to marry. Not only must Emma relinquish her role as mistress of the household, but also accept the reality that the excitable Miss Bates will become her stepmother....

More unwanted news arrives during an extravagant betrothal ball at Donwell Abbey, the grand Knightley estate where Emma and George will soon permanently reside. Nearly every villager in Highbury revels in the dazzling affair—except Emma's hardworking lady's maid, Prudence Parr. To Emma's horror, Prudence is found dead, sprawled across the stones of the library terrace....

The woman's tragic fall is quickly ruled a terrible accident and whispers circulate around personal troubles leading up to her untimely demise. But Emma's instincts tell her that something far more sinister is at play. Now, Highbury's matchmaker-turned-sleuth vows to outwit a cunning criminal before an innocent man loses his freedom—or Donwell Abbey plunges into a darker mystery....

©2025 Vanessa Kelly (P)2025 Tantor Media

Another great Emma variation.

Absolutely loved this one. I have been looking for a sequel to Emma. This was a great listen.

Disrespectful to Austin

Just started listening and there’s definitely some flaws here!!! The last book was pretty good. But I would think that if somebody wants to draw upon the idiosyncrasies of Emma and Knightly, you definitely need to honour the beauty of their relationship and you should start off the story focusing on the amour between them as they are still newlyweds!! You changed the voice for Mrs. Weston and you’ve made her much too old and less warm. And where is Harriet? I am going to keep listening but I’m really not impressed with how this is written.