Death and the Decorator

Having a rough week? Then take a break and head to the posh town of Fethering, the setting for Simon Brett’s many traditional mysteries featuring the unusual duo of neighbors Jude and Carole. Jude’s the outgoing one, who loves her curves—as well as an occasional lover—works as a healer, and gives off some serious hippy vibes. Carol, retired from the Home Office, is anxious, uptight, and suspicious of all that’s trendy (like healing!). Despite their differences, the two manage to maintain a friendship—a bottle or two of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc help—and regularly pair up to investigate the many murders of Fethering. Planning her own home improvements, Jude meets with interior decorator Pete, who is in the process of renovating a large Victorian building that’s had a checkered history. When Peter knocks down a wall panel, they are both surprised to find a woman’s handbag. Turns out it belongs to a young woman who disappeared decades ago, under suspicious circumstances, and Jude and Carole are off and running in pursuit of the lost woman. Brett skillfully has the duo work both apart and together, allowing us to enjoy their personalities while moving the story along at a nice clip. As always, what lies beneath Fethering isn’t always pretty. Perfect for reading in series, or as a stand-alone, this is one of Brett’s very best.