Ruth Rendell aka Barbara Vine writes two kinds of books. The Ruth Rendell/Inspector Wexford books are in a series and are typical British mysteries/police procedurals. The Barbara Vine books are generally spooky and darker. I prefer Inspector Wexford. The first book in the series is From Doon with Death and there are at least fifteen altogether. I read these novels a while ago but remember starting with one and just keeping on going. You can read the series in order or try this one that is on sale today. If you like traditional British mysteries, you may have already read these. If not you have a treat in store.
From Publishers Weekly
Starred Review. In addition to solving two long-ago murders, Chief Inspector Wexford is troubled by female genital mutilation in the local Somali community. The temptation would be to cut the subplot, but this abridgment retains the richness of the novel. Tim Curry’s performance is splendid, even better than Daniel Gerroll’s excellent performance of Rendell’s End in Tears. Curry does a particularly marvelous job with the minor characters, such as the two wives-in-law of a local author, who cackle at the sexual innuendos of their own jokes. Then there’s 84-year-old Irene McNeil, alternately supercilious and weepy. Throw in the obsessive Grimbles, on whose land the bodies were found; some migrant fruit-picking Roma; Wexford’s family; Somali immigrants; and Curry somehow sounds like a full-cast audio. If only Wexford sounded less like his assistant Burden, the performance would be absolutely perfect. A Crown hardcover (reviewed online). (July)
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I blogged this one just last month and today it could be yours for just ninety-nine cents! Review reprinted below:
The following quote sums this novel up nicely: “Glorious escapism . . . A foundling turned star baker, a tough childhood, the Yorkshire moors and a dashing neighbour are a winning mix in this bittersweet novel with nods to the Brontes.” —The Lady
I notice that I am doing a lot of comfort reading recently…hmmm. Well, I do still have Anna Karenina with its vast panorama, complex relationships and depiction of the Russian social classes to finish. Meanwhile…this novel was a soothing read. We watch as Alice rebuilds her life following a tragedy, is helped by many along the way and finds herself. There is adoption, romance, baking, antiques, friends…great ingredients indeed! Try it.
Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews
I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses!
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Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 