Never Laugh As a Hearse Goes By

Library Journal ★ 11/01/2013 A small conference for a group of vicars at the notable Gladstone's Library in Wales goes decidedly grim when the bishop's administrative assistant dies of a food-allergic reaction. Turns out someone planned it that way. DCI Gareth Davies happens to be on the scene, and, conveniently, Penny Brannigan is there, too. What most of the attendees don't know is that Araminta (Minty) Russell, the victim, had recently decided to try her amateurish hand at blackmail, targeting multiple individuals. Clearly, one of them has retaliated. But after a second victim dies in the library, Penny and Gareth pursue a variety of leads, including library book checkouts, menu planning, and secret doors. Apparently, all is not peaceful in the parishes of the region as tawdry secrets come to light, ensuring that a desperate killer will try again. VERDICT This fifth entry in a winning series (after A Small Hill To Die On) is a pleasing update of the "body in the library" standard. In the time-honored tradition of village cozies, Duncan provides structure, subtle clues, rampant gossip, and a satisfying conclusion.