When life in London becomes too much, Daphne Brewster and her family relocate to the quaint hamlet of Pudding Corner in Norfolk. Little did she realise that she was still going to come across many of the same issues she faced in London, including murder.
Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival runs the Big Read each year, you can find out about its aims here. With my local library taking part, I booked a place and grabbed a copy of the book, The Potting Shed Murder by Paula Sutton. I enjoy reading cosy crime, so I was looking forward to reading the book and then taking part in the discussion led by Reader in Residence Luca Veste.
The hamlet of Pudding Corner, along with the nearby village of Pepperbridge, is almost a throwback in time. Charming little shops are dotted around, life runs at a more sedate pace, and a brigade of older residents rule the roost, particularly the wife of the local primary school's headmaster, Augusta Papplewick. Augusta is certainly a force to be reckoned with as she is the "unofficial gatekeeper to the integrity of the parish", casting herself as "judge and jury" for all events. This is certainly not the kind of environment Daphne Brewster is used to.
Daphne quickly learns that it doesn't matter if you are in an inner-city, town or village, the same situations exist: the playground mafia, outsiders not being accepted, and following social etiquette. Daphne also has the added issue of being a person of colour, something she is determined to educate the village about, particularly for the sake of her children. As I read, I got the feeling that much of this must have come from the writer's personal experience, as it comes across as very real.
When the murder occurs, it doesn't immediately look like murder; it is only as the post-mortem is carried out that the dastardly deed is uncovered. There are plenty of suspects, as we soon discover that there is an abundance of bitterness and resentment festering in the village. Adultery, jealousy, blackmail and greed are all possible motives.
The author skillfully sets up an array of possible suspects, each with means, motive and opportunity. I honestly couldn't decide who the murderer was. There are a couple of wonderful twists, and the big reveal was a complete surprise, something which is always welcomed by an avid thriller reader.
As for the Big Read itself, Luca Veste was hugely entertaining and informative as he hosted the discussion. It was interesting hearing what other individuals and groups had thought about the book. Personally, I felt that it wasn't the right book to encourage reluctant readers; far too descriptive and had some obscure words that had me reaching for a dictionary.
No comments:
Post a Comment