Save the bees...

One of the key themes throughout the novels is the essential need for organic farming methods being used in the countryside. Both at Ash Farm and on the Hollander estate, Willie Grey and Lady Greta Hollander try hard to ensure they do not use chemical insecticides, thus allowing insects and bees to survive and help them, pollinating their crops and fruit trees. They also grow thicker field verges, with wild flowers, to promote wildlife habitats.
It might seem strange, in murder mystery stories, to focus on these matters, but if we lose the bees, we won't have murder mystery writers any more...or readers!