The Mystery of the Missing Icon
The Salisbury Murders: book five
Then there’s the stolen icon.
Could its disappearance be connected to the murder, or is something far more sinister at work? As Meg and Lauren delve deeper, they find links to an organised crime network operating on the dark web.
Their investigation soon puts everyone in danger. Old friends Jack and Albert become embroiled in the case, with assault and kidnapping following close behind. After a second callous murder and a terrifying race against death, can Meg and Lauren prevent this case from spiralling out of control?
And, when the final arrests are made, there is yet one more twist to come.
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Sue R.
I was given an Advanced Reader Copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The Story
This cosy crime novel, after Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, is set in Salisbury Cathedral, on the day of the staging for the annual flower show, when one of the cathedral's icons is stolen and the body of a woman is discovered in the grounds. Police soon arrest the woman who found the victim based on a small piece of evidence.
A trio of care home residents, with one of the young carers, are soon drawn into the investigation. The arrested woman also works at the care home. Their wily ways upstage the police, as they talk to witnesses and others who they believe might be involved, but they work with the authorities because the young carer's boyfriend is part of the police team.
Theft and murder soon become much more, the story delving into conspiracy within the local council, as well as connections to an organised crime gang. When they get too close to the action there are serious repercussions and danger looms large.
The characters here are rounded and believable. Meg, the care home resident, is entirely credible as the Miss Marple leader of the trio, flanked by Albert and Jack, who always want to be in on the investigation, but who are not wholly trusted to keep quiet. The author uses language completely appropriate for each of them, with Albert's blustering ex-military tone and Jack's calmer entreaties. Secondary characters are also imbued with plenty of traits to ensure their place within the story.
I found this book a very enjoyable read, with the odd element of humour to lighten the crime. It is a book you might want to take on holiday, a journey perhaps, or simply to cuddle up with by the fire on a cold night, and I certainly recommend it, especially to those with a penchant for Agatha Christie.