Down the Hatch

An Agatha Raisin Mystery (The Agatha Raisin Mysteries, Book 32)

By: M. C. Beaton, R. W. Green - contributor

Narrated by: Penelope Keith

Beloved New York Times best-selling author M. C. Beaton’s cranky, crafty Agatha Raisin — the star of her own hit TV series — is back on the case again in Down the Hatch.

Private detective Agatha Raisin, having recently taken up power-walking, is striding along a path in Mircester Park during her lunch break when she hears a cry for help. Rushing over, she finds an elderly couple, Mr. and Mrs. Swinburn, in the middle of the green — with the body of an old man lying at their feet.

The man, who the coroner determines died by poisoning, was known as “the Admiral,” a gardener notorious for his heavy drinking, and Chief Inspector Wilkes writes the death off as an accident caused by the consumption of weedkiller stored in a rum bottle. Agatha is not convinced that anyone would mistake weedkiller for rum but carries on with her work at Raisin Investigations, until she receives an anonymous tip that the Admiral’s death was no accident.

Local gossip points to the Swinburns themselves as the killers, spurred by a feud at the club where they, as well as the Admiral, were members. Distraught at this accusation, they turn to Agatha to clear their name, and she takes the case — despite the warnings of Chief Inspector Wilkes.

Agatha encounters one suspicious character after another, becoming further enmeshed in the Admiral’s own dark and shady past. And when she’s run off the road, narrowly escaping with her life, and then another attack occurs, it becomes clear that someone doesn’t want the case closed — and will stop at nothing to prevent Agatha from solving it.

©2021 by M. C. Beaton (P)2021 by Hachette Audio

Best Story Yet

I really think those was one of the best Agatha Raisin stories. I loved the reference to several of the previous books. I also loved how each subplot was neatly tied up. I also particularly loved how Agatha handled the Wongs. I hope that they make more tv shows and include this story!

Agatha has changed

I love these books don’t get me wrong, but what happened to Phil Marshall? Nothing from or about him.

Felt closer to the old Agatha vibe

like others have commented, this book felt and read a little more like the Agatha Raisin stories. the last two books I didn't care for too much. This doesn't have comedic shenanigans but it's a an ok story with usual cast. Agatha has certainly become more self-aware and considerate. There was nary a mention of her capacious handbag or her bear like eyes. I didn't mind.

Another terrific Agatha Raisin Book

The story is fun and interesting with all of the favorite Jessica Raisin characters and the
narrator is great—especially with Jessica Raisin’s voice. I have so loved this series
and it saddens me that M.C. Beaton has passed away. I imagine this is the last unless contributor R. W. Green continues it. Jessica Raisin books would make a great TV series but not like the one the BBC put out where they made Jessica a babe. One of the funny parts of Jessica is how she struggles with being middle aged . I haven’t read all 32 books but a good number. I wish the Jessica Raisin series could go on forever. This final book won’t disappoint.

Agatha strikes again

This is a most enjoyable Agatha Raisin mystery. I’m going to miss MC Beaton’s storytelling