Pippa was introduced to crime fiction by a Francis Durbridge-loving grandmother and a Christie-loving primary schoolteacher. Pippa has looked after the admin for a crime fiction book group for the last 20 years or so and is the author of Cambridge – Myriads of Misdeeds.
Written by a former First Lady of Iceland, Death of a Diplomat is a classic locked room mystery except that the locked room is a storm ravaged island.
The island of Heimaey, the only one of the Western Islands that is inhabited, is the setting for this Christie-like tale. A few miles off the south coast of Iceland, Heimaey might seem a strange place for the Canadian ambassador, his wife and his deputy to visit to open an art exhibition, even if the artist is a well-known Canadian. The ambassador has an additional motive; he is hoping to persuade a successful local business man to open their next facility in Canada.
As well as the official and unofficial plans, there are: tensions and jealousies, former lovers, hopeful lovers, professional disagreements and a mayor grieving for his recently deceased husband. All the necessary elements for dark deeds seem to be in place.
Without giving too much away, after an early dramatic happening, the story goes back to thirteen hours before the incident and provides context. Thereafter, the narrative progresses forward. The chapter headings make the timeline clear but sometimes tease the reader. Six months later, the characters reunite for the belated opening of the exhibition and there are further revelations.
The plot keeps a decent pace, and in keeping with the Golden Age style, there are moments of surprise rather than nail biting jeopardy. There are subtle hints to the reader throughout, should they take notice.
The author's experience of the diplomatic world ensures a feeling of authenticity and this is an accomplished and enjoyable debut. I look forward to meeting several of the characters again in the planned second book of a series.
