A charming look at village life, but not a lot of mystery
Bitter Poison By Margaret Mayhew Severn House Mystery & Thrillers Pub Date: April 1, 2016 Bitter Poison is a delightful British cozy that focuses on the quirky residents of Frog End. The murder is almost an afterthought, taking only a small portion towards the end of the novel. It isn't even certain that the murder is a murder, as there is no evidence. Bitter Poison will appeal most to those who enjoy British comedies depicting the small dramas, gossip and rivalries of village life. Margaret Mayhew imbues her characters with charm and just a touch of nostalgia. If you are looking for action or dramatic tension, Bitter Poison is not the book for you. If you are looking for a light, entertaining read Bitter Poison is the perfect choice. There is no violence, no police involvement, and the culprit gracefully leaves the area rather than mar the old-fashioned perfection of Frog End. 4/5 I received a copy of Bitter Poison from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom Description The Colonel turns reluctant sleuth once more when tragedy strikes at a Christmas party, in Margaret Mayhew’s latest atmospheric village mystery Frog End, that most quintessential of English villages, is preparing for its annual Christmas pantomime. This year, it’s Hans Christian Andersen’s dark fairytale The Snow Queen. Local busybody Marjorie Cuthbertson is on the hunt for her leading lady – and who better to play the icy queen than beautiful new resident, ex-model Joan Dryden. But as interested as they are in their new neighbours, the residents of Frog End remain wary of the Dryden family, considering them aloof Londoners. Mystery is about to engulf the village however when a cast member collapses and dies at a Christmas party, having consumed a rogue mince pie. Was the death an accident – or was it a malicious revenge strategy masked as an allergic reaction? The Colonel makes it his business to find out.
