MURDER AT MOUNT EPHRAIM Whitstable Pearl, Book 9

Jennifer Kirby meticulously presents the vicious guests in this Christie-esque mystery set in an English country house. Listeners join the pre-wedding celebration for Amy Young and wealthy adventurer Guy Priddey. Also in attendance is private detective Pearl Nolan--a lifelong friend of the bride who senses a disquieting undercurrent to the goings-on. Kirby gives each individual distinction in the many conversations (both direct and eavesdropped upon), particularly those of selfish and bossy Babs Meadows, who thinks only of herself even in the face of a gruesome murder. Adding to the action--and fun--are Pearl's hippie mother; a well-rendered, memorable eccentric; and Pearl's serious fiancé, Detective Chief Inspector Maguire. The assortment of disagreeable characters, all potential suspects, and a mysterious underground passage are enhanced by Kirby's spirited audio presentation. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2022]