Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death: Agatha Raisin, Book 1

The headline probably summarizes it all. This entire novel, while funny, is a comedy of errors so painfully avoidable perpetuated by a character who really should learn to censor herself that I was torn between laughter and cringing in almost physically debilitating mortification the longer I attempted to endure.

Backing up a step, I probably should have prefaced this review by informing the reader that I was lured in by the title (and a deep and abiding love for British mystery novels) but, really, Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death is a wonderfully ludicrous title and I feel that I really can't be faulted for either my curiosity or the fact that it set my schadenfreude senses tingling. All of these things turned out to be true, right down to the absurdity but I won't be finishing the series because Agatha Raisin is a marvelously incurable disaster; a true menace to herself and everyone near her. This could be funny if it weren't so painfully self inflicted because, Ms. Raisin really, really needs to learn to swallow her dubious pride and lie a little less often.

I wanted to enjoy the book but I fear that it just doesn't jive with my own sense of humor. Instead I am left with a chronic case of secondhand embarrassment.

That being said, the narration was spot on, right down to Miss Raisin's bewilderment at her own foibles.

I downloaded this series because my mother recommended it. I was not sorry! Agatha Raisin is a funny character and always getting in trouble. I wish all of the series was available on audible. They are great light hearted stories to do while working out or doing house work!

I liked Agatha even for her faults. She is what she is and not at all ashamed of it. As the story progresses she becomes a bit mellow but still feisty. The mystery keeps you listening until the end as she solves a poisoning by pastry. This is new series for me and I can't wait to listen to the others.

Agatha is a wonderfully flawed character, full of hilarious insecurities and stubborn enough to keep going.

Well, who couldn't love the "quiche of death"?

Her voices are wonderful, every character is so distinct.

The key to being able to enjoy this book will be your ability to stomach the main character, Agatha Raisin. Agatha is arrogant, self-centered, and manipulative, and downright rude. She lives alone, has no family. (Wonder why??) I couldn't get into a book where I don't like the protagonist. Contains disagreeable language, also.