Monday, October 25, 2010

Screaming Yellow - Rachel Green

Screaming YellowScreaming Yellow by Rachel Green

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The sleepy village of Laverstone hides many secrets. Why did an elderly widow hang herself? Who killed the charismatic Robert Markew by stabbing him in the back with a ceremonial dagger? Why has his step-son Richard disappeared? Most importantly, what goes on behind the closed doors of the Larches?

The only person who can uncover all of the secrets is newcomer to the village Meinwen Jones, pagan bookshop proprietor and amateur sleuth. She doggedly investigates the complex relationships of the polyamorous community led by the late Robert Markew, spars with genial parish priest Father Brande and finds that his sister Jennifer has brought village gossip into the 21st century with the aid of the internet.

This is a classical murder mystery in the best traditions of Agatha Christie, complete with a drawing room denouement and a delicious twist at the end. However, there is a strong BDSM theme running through the plot which I imagine would have Miss Marple reaching for the smelling salts, so readers of a sensitive disposition be warned. Fans of Rachel Green's 'An Ungodly Child' will be pleased to see a cameo appearance from the mysterious Mr Jasfoup, although there are no deus-ex-machina resolutions to the mystery - just a good, old fashioned trail of clues to unravel before the murderer is unmasked.

Highly recommended!



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4 comments:

Rachel Green said...

What a splendid review! Thank you kindly :) I tried to keep the paranormal out of it but couldn't resist the Jasfoup cameo.

nerinedorman said...

Lovely review! Thank you!

DK said...

smashing review Neil! xxx

Carol Hone said...

I've just bought this so I shall see if I agree with you as soon as my kindle arrives!
Nice review.