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British mysteries have commanded a sizeable section of my personal library since the days
of my first Agatha Christie. Their fascination for me is undoubtedly the quaint village
settings, the picturesque countryside, and the delightful wit of the English characters.
For me, these writers have defined the term "cozy," for I can't help but snuggle
down in my favorite chair with a cup of hot cocoa and lose myself in a good old-fashioned
whodunnit.
Although Martha Grimes is not British, her Richard Jury series is among the most popular
of this genre. Her latest book, THE CASE HAS ALTERED, reaffirms her talent for weaving an
intriguing plot with the charming features we've come to expect from a British mystery.
Aficionados of Grimes will recognize her characteristic use of the English country inn in
both title and setting. The dimly lit pub, the crowded tables, and the murmurs of
conversation are the perfect staging for the occasional gathering of the cast of
characters. Humorous interludes or moments of soul searching are sprinkled throughout to
enlighten and delight.
In Richard Jury's latest case, we find the Scotland Yard Inspector desperately attempting
to uncover the secrets of the residents of Fengate Estate and the surrounding locale.
Though it is not his jurisdiction, the prime suspect in the murders of two women is his
decade-long love interest, Jenny Kennington. The victims both have a connection to
Fengate. One was a servant, the other the infamous ex-wife of the owner --- and the
Lincolnshire police have their case all wrapped up and ready for the prosecution.
In his quest for information, Jury summons his affluent friend, Melrose Plant, to
impersonate an antique dealer and ingratiate himself with the Fengate residents. Melrose
is admirably suited to mingling and gossiping, but his sleuthing skills are typically
bumbling and outrageously funny. In alternating fashion, Jury and Plant attempt
to maneuver their way toward the truth. But as thick as the mists that cover the fens, the
shroud of deceit renders a complexity of clues to keep the reader hopscotching from
suspect to suspect until the surprising conclusion.
Plant is just one of the familiar Grimes characters that pop in and out of her story lines
with welcome regularity. These colorful personalities add a touch of hilarity that is a
trademark of Grimes's character-driven plots. For those unfamiliar with this series, there
may be some initial frustration due to the author's assumption that you have met all of
the cast in previous books. However, all the "major" players are eventually
developed with respect to the roles they play, so first-time readers will not be
disappointed.
--- Reviewed by Ann Bruns (BkPageWC@aol.com)
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