Brought to Book (A Rona Parish Mystery)

Brought To Book is the first book in the Rona Parish series by British author, Anthea Fraser. Just as author, Rona Parish is ready to take a break from writing biographies, there's a request from the widow of a thriller writer who drowned somewhat mysteriously six months earlier. Rona's semi-detached husband, illustrator Max Allerdyce feels she should approach it with caution.

Her twin sister, Lindsey, a junior partner with Chase Mortimer solicitors, encourages her, telling her it will be interesting, although she herself is rather distracted and disturbed by the unwelcome attentions of the not-long-divested ex-husband. Rona worries her sister's loneliness might weaken her resolve against Hugh Cavendish's charms, until another attractive man comes on the scene.

An interview with Meriel Harvey, widow of Theo, has Rona intrigued, especially as there are diaries written in code that might reveal just what led to the writer's three-year block and subsequent radical alteration in style. But also present, Meriel's cousin, Justin Grant seems to be trying to discourage her interest.

By the time a third person seems intent on steering her from the path, in the form of an anonymous note attached to her dog's collar, Rona has decided nothing will put her off, and is pleased when the widow eventually allows her to examine the diaries at home. She interviews Theo's family and friends, gaining some small insights with each encounter.

She and Max travel to the venue of Theo's annual writing retreat, Mile End Cottage in the village of Spindlebury, where visits to the pub, The Plough produce several villagers more than happy to chat about the writer if it will help to solve his uncharacteristic change in demeanour and style.

Back home in Marsborough, though, it seems someone seems set on harassing Rona, and Max worries even more when their dog is poisoned. Rona becomes aware of certain vehicles tailing her, and begins to regret ever taking it on. But chats to people with whom Theo was seen, and the decrypted diaries reveal some shocking truths. Another murder brings home to Rona the danger she's in. Despite some unresolved issues, this is an enjoyable cosy.

This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Severn House