The Decent Inn of Death

John Madden Mysteries, Book 6

De: Rennie Airth

Narrado por: John Curless

Snowed in at a country manor, former Scotland Yard inspectors John Madden and Angus Sinclair find themselves trapped in the company of a murderer.

On a trip into Winchester, former chief inspector Angus Sinclair learns of a tragedy that has taken place in the village he is staying in. Beloved church organist Greta Hartmann has slipped and fallen to her death in a shallow creek, and while investigations conclude it to be an accident, her friend and housemate, Vera, remains unconvinced. After learning that Greta was the widow of a prominent anti-Nazi German preacher, Sinclair meets with the distraught Vera, and he resolves to dig deeper into the story.

His investigations lead him to the stately manor of Julia Lesage, where she lives with her devoted staff that includes her secretary, cook, and driver. Though confined to a wheelchair, Julia is an electrifying spirit with a sharp wit, and those who know her adore her. Among those who do, a gentleman with dubious business dealings is also staying at the house - and Julia appears to be in love with him.

A blizzard hits, keeping Sinclair, and later Madden, on the grounds with little to do but analyze the case of Greta's death, until a murder takes place, and everyone becomes a suspect.

©2020 Rennie Airth (P)2020 Recorded Books

Tricky

An old-fashioned, tricky plot. Nice characterization, but really just a variation on standard old-time cozy murder mystery stock characters. Contrived plot. The book is written in a tried and true formula, but the author goes to so much trouble to attempt a refresh.

The Problem with Rennie Airth

Rennie is 85 and I hope he continues writing. His two earliest books must be out of print because they are way out of my price range. These prices are indicative of his skill. I suggest if readers are interested in sampling Rennie they start with River of Darkness (1999). This story will introduce you to John Madden and an intimate portrait of English village life. Don’t let ‘an intimate portrait of English village life’ turn you off because it is far,far from the pastoral images of landscape artists.