There is nothing gentle about murder, however it is dressed up. But there is something gentle, cosy and reassuring about Simon Brett’s Fethering Mysteries.
Murder in the Museum is the fourth novel and one of the better ones. The main protagonists Jude and Carole are back. Carole happens to be around when a body is discovered, whilst she is attending a meeting of the Trustees of Bracketts House. (A newly acquired pastime or interest). But this body is 90 years old and cannot be immediately identified.
With some help from Jude who is somewhat distracted by a face from the past who seeks solace in her cottage, her company, her whiskey and her body. Carole thinks there is more to discovering this body at Bracketts and it is inextricably linked to the story of Barcketts itself and its former owner poet Esmond Chadleigh.
When another murder happens within days of the discovery, with even Carole witnessing the death. The true story of the 90 year old body comes to light. But why is a day release prisoner working at Bracketts confessing to the murder?
Paced enough story with background to keep you hooked and interested. A couple of red herrings, false clues and leads to make it a worthy crime story. Plus an interesting subject to base a murder/crime novel around.
A book to while away a couple of days for pure enjoyment and I defy anyone not to enjoy the contrasting characters of Jude and Carole who have very different takes on the worlds and how “one should behave appropriately”.
The Book Jotter 