I LOVED this book… BUT. A group of elderly acquaintances have made a home together in Agnes Sharp’s house where they take care of one another and have agreed to ensure each person lives the life they want in their old age. Most of the group has a background in law enforcement or espionage but fading memory and mobility issues limit the utility of this. The nearby town sees them as somewhat crazy hippies. They are certainly unconventional. Hettie, a fabulous character throughout, is a Tortoise. She plays a key role here and there and the novel opens with her. The novel is quirky in my favorite way. It feels like it could be a cosy as a neighbor and former friend is found shot and Agnes reconnects with the victim’s twin for the first time in years. Thrown into the mix is an assisted living/nursing home for the wealthy that is looking for clients. Their pitch is that they will rent out elderly people’s homes to pay for their stay at the place. Then, we have the community of nosy villagers, judgmental villagers, local constables, etc.
Once all the characters and the setting is fixed, however, this cosy turns dark. Now, it happens I’m fine with dark, but this is a heads up for those who might be disappointed with that. I liked it very much. I kind of knew whodunnit but in this case, the fact I guessed did not detract from the very well written, well plotted story. It never lost the quirkiness that I loved and I see there is at least one sequel. Translated from German and about an English Village. Who could ask for more?
They Called me Bookworm 