Selling
her public relations firm to take early retirement and fulfil her
childhood dream of a cottage in the Cotswolds, Agatha Raisin soon
discovers reality does not quite match the dream. Used to the pace
of London and an all consuming career, Agatha finds it difficult to
settle in a village where anyone of less than twenty years standing
is an 'incomer.' However, she decides entering the village quiche
competition is just the thing to help. It is here that her real
problems start. With no talent for cookery, Agatha cheats by buying
a quiche from a London delicatessen. Not only does she fail to win
but the competition judge, Reg Cummings-Browne, is found dead the
next morning. The prospect of being labelled cheat and murderess
determines Agatha to get to the bottom of the mystery.
Agatha is a
likeable character, despite calculated use of her forceful
personality. Her new life shows her out of her element. Without the
familiar routine of work, she appears vulnerable but fighting any
feelings of self-pity. Agatha's lively former assistant Roy
encourages speculation in the death of Cummings-Browne, a man busy
with extra-marital activities. Detective Constable Bill Wong, who
surprises Agatha by telling her he likes her, conversely tries to
discourage her doing any investigation. M. C. Beaton introduces us
to a colourful variety of characters. The unpleasant Mrs Barr, whose
cleaner Agatha has poached, makes no secret of her animosity for her
new neighbour. The vicar's wife, Mrs. Bloxby, is more welcoming,
while the vicar himself seems none too enamoured of the newcomer.
The dreadful Mr and Mrs Boggle put Agatha's good intentions severely
to the test when she takes them out for a day. A lively and
enjoyable novel, with humour and interesting characters. I look
forward to Agatha Raisin's next adventure. |
|
