A MURDER FOR MISS HORTENSE

Debra Michaels's lively performance takes full advantage of the descriptive scenes and energetic dialogue in this first novel from playwright Mel Pennant. Miss Hortense, who immigrated to the UK from Jamaica in 1960, was the backbone of her suburban Birmingham neighborhood. She even ran the Pardner, a money-raising and savings club that allowed members to accumulate modest wealth and help develop their community. But tragedy struck, with the community deeply affected by several murders, and Miss Hortense was dismissed from her role as "Pardner Lady." Now, thirty years later, another murder has occurred, and Miss Hortense must use her skills to save the day. Michaels's facility with Caribbean accents--along with her cadence, humor, and ability to capture the wide-ranging personalities--enhance this thoughtful cozy. S.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2025]