While in Newcastle visiting her family, investigative reporter Poppy Denby agrees to work as the press liaison for famous local artist Agnes Robson. She is soon fending off questions about Agnes’ past involvement with her art teacher, Michael Brownly, who died under suspicious circumstances 27 years previously. But when Agnes is murdered, Poppy must delve into that past, and a possibility link between the two.
This is my second book in the series that I’ve read (The Jazz Files being my first), and Vetch Smith has created another great read for me. She does well in presenting the era (between the wars) and the setting (Newcastle and its surrounding mining towns) while weaving in some very serious themes which become fundamental elements of the mystery. The experienced mystery reader will have little trouble sorting out the mystery, but it has enough complexity to keep you guessing for much of the book.
And the character of Poppy has evolved so much since the initial book! While she may still be young, she has learned better how to navigate her way around in the world. She is definitely more confident in her work, and willing to comfortably add her voice and her opinions. I must read the three books in the series that I missed.
All in all a fun, entertaining read.
Source: Review copy - Lion Hudson Ltd via NetGalley
Other Opinions - Falmouth Book Baristas
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