The Poisoning in the Pub-Simon Brett

The Poisoning in the Pub
Simon Brett
Five Star, Nov 2009, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594148903

In Fethering, West Sussex, the Crown and Anchor pub has had some recent problems. First food poisoning with the media all over the establishment forced a temporary shutdown. Then the grand reopening is devastated by an unruly motorcycle gang. However, worse is the cruel stabbing of a mentally challenged kitchen helper Ray. Landlord Ted Crisp is stunned but soon feels like Job being tested when on top of all that a chain has threatened to open in Fethering.

Friends Carole Seddon and Jude investigate taking advantage of their age as no one would believe two old biddies would risk their lives except in a Christie novel. The pair begins to unravel who killed the gentle lad and why as they connect his death to the poisoned scallops.

The latest Fethering amateur sleuth tale (see Blood at the Bookies) is a terrific entry containing a cautionary message warning readers to beware of the chain stores as they may be more efficient, but at a price to the local flavoring. The lead ladies are at their best as they non-intrusively investigate what has been going on at the pub. Readers will enjoy Simon Brett’s fine village mystery as image (not substance) in a pub, a shop, or a person means everything to most people.

Harriet Klausner