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Penelope Kite #1
Death in Provence
The first entry in a clever, lighthearted mystery series set in modern Provence—a delightful blend of Agatha Christie and Peter Mayle—featuring the irrepressible Penelope Kite, a young-at-heart divorcee with a knack for stumbling across dead bodies.
It’s love at first sight when Penelope Kite sees Le Chant d’Eau—The Song of Water—the stone farmhouse tucked high in the hills above the Luberon valley, complete with a garden, swimming pool, and sweeping mountain vistas. For years, Penelope put her unfaithful ex-husband and her ungrateful stepchildren first. Since taking early retirement from her job in forensics at the Home Office in England, she’s been an unpaid babysitter and chauffeur for her grandchildren. Now, she’s going to start living for herself. Though her dream house needs major renovations, Penelope impulsively buys the property and moves to St. Merlot.
But Penelope’s daydreams of an adventurous life in Provence didn’t include finding a corpse floating face down in her swimming pool. The discovery of the dead man plunges her headlong into a Provençal stew of intrigue and lingering resentments simmering beneath the deceptively sunny village. Having worked in the forensics office, Penelope knows a thing or two about murder investigations. To find answers, she must carefully navigate between her seemingly ubiquitous, supercilious (and enviably chic) estate agent, the disdainful chief of police, and the devilishly handsome mayor—even as she finds herself tempted by all the delicacies the region has to offer. Thank goodness her old friend Frankie is just a flight away . . . and that Penelope is not quite as naïve as her new neighbors in St. Merlot believe.
Set against the exquisite backdrop of Provence, steeped in history, atmosphere, and secrets, Death in Provence introduces an irresistible heroine and a delightful new mystery series.
It’s love at first sight when Penelope Kite sees Le Chant d’Eau—The Song of Water—the stone farmhouse tucked high in the hills above the Luberon valley, complete with a garden, swimming pool, and sweeping mountain vistas. For years, Penelope put her unfaithful ex-husband and her ungrateful stepchildren first. Since taking early retirement from her job in forensics at the Home Office in England, she’s been an unpaid babysitter and chauffeur for her grandchildren. Now, she’s going to start living for herself. Though her dream house needs major renovations, Penelope impulsively buys the property and moves to St. Merlot.
But Penelope’s daydreams of an adventurous life in Provence didn’t include finding a corpse floating face down in her swimming pool. The discovery of the dead man plunges her headlong into a Provençal stew of intrigue and lingering resentments simmering beneath the deceptively sunny village. Having worked in the forensics office, Penelope knows a thing or two about murder investigations. To find answers, she must carefully navigate between her seemingly ubiquitous, supercilious (and enviably chic) estate agent, the disdainful chief of police, and the devilishly handsome mayor—even as she finds herself tempted by all the delicacies the region has to offer. Thank goodness her old friend Frankie is just a flight away . . . and that Penelope is not quite as naïve as her new neighbors in St. Merlot believe.
Set against the exquisite backdrop of Provence, steeped in history, atmosphere, and secrets, Death in Provence introduces an irresistible heroine and a delightful new mystery series.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published February 19, 2019
271 people are currently reading
1758 people want to read
About the author
Serena Kent
5 books114 followersSerena Kent is the author name of husband-and-wife writing duo, Deborah Lawrenson and Robert Rees. Deborah has previously published eight novels including The Art of Falling, The Lantern, The Sea Garden and 300 Days of Sun.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews
March 20, 2019
Death in Provence is a shiny new mystery series, bordering on cozy, by Serena Kent. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Every mystery needs a sleuth, and here we have Penelope Kite. She seems to find dead bodies wherever she goes.
Penelope buys Le Chant d’Eau (“The Song of Water”), a stone farmhouse in the hilly countryside of Provence, as a retirement gift for herself. She’s divorced from a cad and tired of playing free babysitter to her grandchildren, so this phase of life is about her. In her former life, she worked in forensics in England. I can’t fail to mention The Song of Water needs some work- some major work!
Penelope’s idyllic early retirement life is short-lived when she finds a body floating in her swimming pool. The “arrival” of this body exposes the secrets and darkness underlying this for-all-appearances charming village.
Penelope’s former work drive has her wanting answers and now. This hits too close to home (literally) to just let it go. So, alongside the lackluster chief of police, she does her own investigation. Her friend, Frankie, arrives to lend some support, too.
Oh, how I loved the setting of Provence for this one! It adds so much atmosphere, warmth, and history. I loved Penelope – she’s a delight with sharp intelligence and clever wit. I’ll definitely be following along on her next adventures. Easy breezy and full of humor, this is just the kind of book you want to nestle into. The mystery was engaging, there’s lots of yummy Provençal food, and Penelope is already a master at sailing this new ship of a series.
I also have to add, Serena Kent is a wife and husband author duo. I LOVE THAT.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Penelope buys Le Chant d’Eau (“The Song of Water”), a stone farmhouse in the hilly countryside of Provence, as a retirement gift for herself. She’s divorced from a cad and tired of playing free babysitter to her grandchildren, so this phase of life is about her. In her former life, she worked in forensics in England. I can’t fail to mention The Song of Water needs some work- some major work!
Penelope’s idyllic early retirement life is short-lived when she finds a body floating in her swimming pool. The “arrival” of this body exposes the secrets and darkness underlying this for-all-appearances charming village.
Penelope’s former work drive has her wanting answers and now. This hits too close to home (literally) to just let it go. So, alongside the lackluster chief of police, she does her own investigation. Her friend, Frankie, arrives to lend some support, too.
Oh, how I loved the setting of Provence for this one! It adds so much atmosphere, warmth, and history. I loved Penelope – she’s a delight with sharp intelligence and clever wit. I’ll definitely be following along on her next adventures. Easy breezy and full of humor, this is just the kind of book you want to nestle into. The mystery was engaging, there’s lots of yummy Provençal food, and Penelope is already a master at sailing this new ship of a series.
I also have to add, Serena Kent is a wife and husband author duo. I LOVE THAT.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
February 26, 2019
Book Review/Recommendation on - Death in Provence by Serena Kent.
.
This book was a recommended read by Ellen Read
.
Penelope Kite who lives in Esher (Surrey) in England, is house hunting in France. Penelope has taken early retirement and is seperated. Her children were upset with the fact that she was abandoning them, but she told them she wanted a life of her own. She finds a lovely place in the south of France (St Merlot) that needs renovating, but to her horror she discovers a dead body in her swimming pool. Not only does she find a body, in her swimming pool, but, some time later in the book she is in middle of a war fare of bullets!! Snuck into a secret sheltered spot, to find the Ace of Spades ...... and ???? Also featured in this book, is Penelopes friend, Frankie,
who lives in England, who flies out and helps Penelope put the puzzle together of who has done it.
.
This book is a wonderful piece of entertainment. The banter between Penelope and Frankie is funny, Frankie, who seems to goad Penelope into different situations that might give them a clue at who the murderer is. Frankie, being more the sparkly type with plenty of energy which she, herself swears is to do with HRT. Although Penelope is the main character in this book, Frankie seems to steal the highlight on many occasions due to her boldness and hi gusto attitude of asking and poking her nose into situations, actually, I'm left wondering if Frankie stars in the other books? I adored the story line, it kept me interested through out.
.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes Agatha Christie books, as this is a cosy mystery, to anyone who likes historical fiction, as this is set in France, who likes to read a bit of French, as there is the odd french word and anyone who likes funny, witty, light hearted books.
.
This book was a recommended read by Ellen Read
.
Penelope Kite who lives in Esher (Surrey) in England, is house hunting in France. Penelope has taken early retirement and is seperated. Her children were upset with the fact that she was abandoning them, but she told them she wanted a life of her own. She finds a lovely place in the south of France (St Merlot) that needs renovating, but to her horror she discovers a dead body in her swimming pool. Not only does she find a body, in her swimming pool, but, some time later in the book she is in middle of a war fare of bullets!! Snuck into a secret sheltered spot, to find the Ace of Spades ...... and ???? Also featured in this book, is Penelopes friend, Frankie,
who lives in England, who flies out and helps Penelope put the puzzle together of who has done it.
.
This book is a wonderful piece of entertainment. The banter between Penelope and Frankie is funny, Frankie, who seems to goad Penelope into different situations that might give them a clue at who the murderer is. Frankie, being more the sparkly type with plenty of energy which she, herself swears is to do with HRT. Although Penelope is the main character in this book, Frankie seems to steal the highlight on many occasions due to her boldness and hi gusto attitude of asking and poking her nose into situations, actually, I'm left wondering if Frankie stars in the other books? I adored the story line, it kept me interested through out.
.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes Agatha Christie books, as this is a cosy mystery, to anyone who likes historical fiction, as this is set in France, who likes to read a bit of French, as there is the odd french word and anyone who likes funny, witty, light hearted books.
June 22, 2020
This book is about 20% murder mystery, 80% internalized fatphobia. The lead spends more time eating, drinking rosé, and feeling guilty about doing so, as well as jealous of the thin side characters than she does anything else. It ends with her losing weight and feeling confident and frankly, it's 2020 and I'm too tired for this.
July 4, 2018
“Beach reads” are often considered a genre unto themselves: light, breezy fare that matches the light breezes of the seaside. That’s exactly how I felt reading Death in Provence. This book is as good as a holiday.
After 24 years of marriage and trying to be a good mother, 50 year old retired divorcee Penelope Kite decides to start a new life by purchasing an old farm house in the South of France. When she receives the keys to her new home to start renovations, shockingly she finds the dead body of her next door neighbour floating in her swimming pool. At first, Penelope believes his death is down to the consumption of too much alcohol and unpaid gambling debts. However, when she gets acquainted with members from her local community, she discovers that Manuel Avore was a despised and hated man. Penelope soon realises there is more to her neighbour’s death and uses her skills as a former forensic Pathologist assistant to unearth “whodunit?”
Serena Kent is a legitimately talented writer. The book takes place in Provence (South of France) and she writes with such imagery that you can picture the beautiful French towns and landscapes perfectly. Every character is fully thought out and developed. You see how they seamlessly fit into the world that she has created. Reading her words is truly a great experience. The story takes you places that you wouldn’t expect and at times reminded me of another famous fictional detective, Agatha Christie's Poirot.
Mystery novels are great but a lot of them follow a similar formula. After reading a couple they start to become repetitive, predictable, and boring. I did not feel that way with Death in Provence. I like the fact that the main character Penelope is a smart 50 year old woman who has life experience and is trying to come to terms with aging.
I’ve awarded Death in Provence five stars because the story has many twists and turns that you never really know what’s going to happen. It’ll keep you on the edge of your seat! I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll keep this brief, but the ending is really good! I was surprised at who the murder was. And that’s all I’m going to say about that!
A gorgeous mystery summer read to escape with this summer.
After 24 years of marriage and trying to be a good mother, 50 year old retired divorcee Penelope Kite decides to start a new life by purchasing an old farm house in the South of France. When she receives the keys to her new home to start renovations, shockingly she finds the dead body of her next door neighbour floating in her swimming pool. At first, Penelope believes his death is down to the consumption of too much alcohol and unpaid gambling debts. However, when she gets acquainted with members from her local community, she discovers that Manuel Avore was a despised and hated man. Penelope soon realises there is more to her neighbour’s death and uses her skills as a former forensic Pathologist assistant to unearth “whodunit?”
Serena Kent is a legitimately talented writer. The book takes place in Provence (South of France) and she writes with such imagery that you can picture the beautiful French towns and landscapes perfectly. Every character is fully thought out and developed. You see how they seamlessly fit into the world that she has created. Reading her words is truly a great experience. The story takes you places that you wouldn’t expect and at times reminded me of another famous fictional detective, Agatha Christie's Poirot.
Mystery novels are great but a lot of them follow a similar formula. After reading a couple they start to become repetitive, predictable, and boring. I did not feel that way with Death in Provence. I like the fact that the main character Penelope is a smart 50 year old woman who has life experience and is trying to come to terms with aging.
I’ve awarded Death in Provence five stars because the story has many twists and turns that you never really know what’s going to happen. It’ll keep you on the edge of your seat! I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll keep this brief, but the ending is really good! I was surprised at who the murder was. And that’s all I’m going to say about that!
A gorgeous mystery summer read to escape with this summer.
March 20, 2019
Ever since the late Peter Mayle wrote his famous A Year in Provence, English speakers can’t get enough of books about life in that sun-soaked area in the south of France. Whether the books are memoirs, novels or mysteries, they all share one thing, and that’s that they are above all else lifestyle porn. The books appeal to the eye, with their descriptions of mountains, rippling fields, village squares and rustic stone houses with huge beams, tiled floors and massive fireplaces; the nose, with scents of lavender, thyme and citrus; but most of all the taste, with characters day after day eating lovingly described patisserie, lunches, dinners and desserts, and drinking wine, of course.
Serena Kent is the pseudonym of a husband-and-wife writing couple, and this is their first novel in what promises to be a series. The main character, Penelope Kite, is recently retired from her job as an assistant at a forensics lab at the British Home Office, and also recently divorced and newly menopausal. Her stepchildren are grown, with families of their own, and now seems like just the time for Penny to start a new life. To the surprise of her friends and family, and dismay in some cases, she decides to move to Provence.
In short order, Penny buys a rundown stone house a few minutes from a Provencal village and hopes to get down to renovations and becoming part of village life. But on her first day, she is confronted by a menacing drunken man who claims the house and property belongs to him, and on the second she discovers a dead body in her long-neglected pool.
Soon, Penny comes to believe that not only is there a murderer in the area, but that her life is in danger too. Is the perpetrator the overly attentive Clemence, the real estate agent who sold her the property? The farmer next door? The charming and handsome mayor who seems to take a strong interest in the property? There are several other possibilities as well. And if the chief of police is going to be dismissive of Penny’s suggestions and concerns, well then, she’ll just have to investigate on her own.
As a mystery, this is adequate but not impressive. The reader is given tons of clues, but none that would allow him or her to figure out the whodunnit. Instead, Penny stumbles along, putting herself in danger, and eventually the case solves itself. But as Provencal lifestyle porn, this is pretty good stuff and I spent an entertaining few hours reading it.
Serena Kent is the pseudonym of a husband-and-wife writing couple, and this is their first novel in what promises to be a series. The main character, Penelope Kite, is recently retired from her job as an assistant at a forensics lab at the British Home Office, and also recently divorced and newly menopausal. Her stepchildren are grown, with families of their own, and now seems like just the time for Penny to start a new life. To the surprise of her friends and family, and dismay in some cases, she decides to move to Provence.
In short order, Penny buys a rundown stone house a few minutes from a Provencal village and hopes to get down to renovations and becoming part of village life. But on her first day, she is confronted by a menacing drunken man who claims the house and property belongs to him, and on the second she discovers a dead body in her long-neglected pool.
Soon, Penny comes to believe that not only is there a murderer in the area, but that her life is in danger too. Is the perpetrator the overly attentive Clemence, the real estate agent who sold her the property? The farmer next door? The charming and handsome mayor who seems to take a strong interest in the property? There are several other possibilities as well. And if the chief of police is going to be dismissive of Penny’s suggestions and concerns, well then, she’ll just have to investigate on her own.
As a mystery, this is adequate but not impressive. The reader is given tons of clues, but none that would allow him or her to figure out the whodunnit. Instead, Penny stumbles along, putting herself in danger, and eventually the case solves itself. But as Provencal lifestyle porn, this is pretty good stuff and I spent an entertaining few hours reading it.
October 15, 2018
A delightful mystery involving an ex-pat British woman who moves to Provenance and stumbles onto murder and danger. Thoroughly enjoyed the pages!
November 22, 2018
This started out with great promise then slowly got repetitive 😔 I lost interest but did finish it.
February 14, 2019
After reading Martin Walker's delightful Bruno Chief of Police mysteries and now this charming series opener, I might be forgiven for believing that all crime in the south of France seems to tie into World War II. A lot happened then, and old resentments seem never to be forgotten, only handed down from one generation to the next. Yes, the mystery in Death in Provence does hark back to that period of time, and it is a good, strong puzzle to solve, but I found myself liking other things even more-- especially the main character, Penelope Kite.
Penelope is a fiftysomething woman with a good head on her shoulders. Her background working with forensic scientists means she has a good idea of how investigations should be conducted and how evidence should be handled. I had to give her a lot of credit because she always kept the local police apprised of her findings regardless of how shabbily they treated her. Which brings up another point.
A year or so ago, I read the first book in another mystery series set in the south of France, and the major reason why I did not care for it is that the main character spent most of her time whining about how her new neighbors didn't think she was wonderful and accept her into their midst in five seconds or less. For the most part, newcomers in key tourist areas like this are not going to be accepted quickly (if at all). Their habit of investing in properties at inflated prices means that young local families can't afford to buy their own homes. Resentment grows if the newcomer only lives there for a week or two each year, and it festers if other things are (or are not) done. I loved watching how Penelope conducted herself. This is one woman who is really looking forward to her new life, and she's going about it in just the right way.
Death in Provence contains an excellent recipe for a continuing series: a puzzling mystery to solve, a dash of humor, the wonderful cuisine of Provence, a beautiful farmhouse to restore, and the perfect woman to handle it all. I look forward to the next book. Allons-y!
Penelope is a fiftysomething woman with a good head on her shoulders. Her background working with forensic scientists means she has a good idea of how investigations should be conducted and how evidence should be handled. I had to give her a lot of credit because she always kept the local police apprised of her findings regardless of how shabbily they treated her. Which brings up another point.
A year or so ago, I read the first book in another mystery series set in the south of France, and the major reason why I did not care for it is that the main character spent most of her time whining about how her new neighbors didn't think she was wonderful and accept her into their midst in five seconds or less. For the most part, newcomers in key tourist areas like this are not going to be accepted quickly (if at all). Their habit of investing in properties at inflated prices means that young local families can't afford to buy their own homes. Resentment grows if the newcomer only lives there for a week or two each year, and it festers if other things are (or are not) done. I loved watching how Penelope conducted herself. This is one woman who is really looking forward to her new life, and she's going about it in just the right way.
Death in Provence contains an excellent recipe for a continuing series: a puzzling mystery to solve, a dash of humor, the wonderful cuisine of Provence, a beautiful farmhouse to restore, and the perfect woman to handle it all. I look forward to the next book. Allons-y!
February 25, 2019
I liked the characters and the setting--can't go wrong with Provence--and the writing style was enjoyable. I laughed out loud at times. But the pace was much too slow.
August 25, 2018
Perfect reading material for literary wanderlust to PROVENCE
Serena Kent is the author name of husband-and-wife writing duo, Deborah Lawrenson and Rob Rees and they clearly work well together as they have produced a delightful cosy murder mystery set in the heart of Provence.
Penelope Vine has reached retirement age (at the ripe age of 50!); she has tended her family, she has invested enough of her time working in forensic pathology, she is divorced. So it is time for this merry divorcée to strike out on her own. Relocation has tempted her! With the help of sharply turned out estate agent, Clémence Valencourt, she finds the supremely delapidated Chant d’Eau and decides to buy it. Her own family members feel she should seek help as this is a decision that really doesn’t suit anyone but her – maybe medication for menopause might help, therapy, a good talking to…. But she is set upon her mission, the stunning views of her new acquisition are to die for. Only someone does die, as we know right from the outset. A body is retrieved from her derelict swimming pool, seemingly that of local drunk and gambler, Manuel Avore, adorned with a playing card, the Ace of Spades (the card of death).
Clémence seems to pop up at the drop of hat “..always here, there, everywhere” which proves to be just a little unnerving. Factor in her seemingly clandestine meetings with other locals – including the handsome Mayor, Laurent Millais – and Penelope feels she has to cast a keen eye over her activities.
As Penny observes the unfolding investigation, she starts poking around herself (after all she has spent quite some time working in the forensic pathology department of the Home Office) and when she finds some old bones whilst someone appears to be taking a pot shot at her, she is all the more determined to get to the bottom of this village murder mystery that seems to centre on her newly acquired on home. Clearly she will not be able to settle into her new life until everything is resolved! But her prying is not appreciated by some of the locals…
The flavour of the area imbues the storyline with colour, smells and scenery. Penelope’s house is near Apt and as she starts to uncover the mystery that unfolds, she takes in her locale, from Bonnieux, past Lacoste (where the Marquis de Sade had his château) and many more delightful villages and scenery. This novel is an absolute delight for foodies and even Le Sanglier Paresseux at Caseneuve, where Penny meets up with handsome Mayor Millais, is featured in the book (top tip, by the way). The terrace proves to be the perfect place to sample Vacqueyras red wine.
The closed and almost incestuous nature of village life in the South of France is well depicted, old family feuds seem to rumble down the generations, gossips freely exchange information, local festivals are ubiquitous, and the odd game of Pétanque (Provençal boules) is featured in the village square. The boulangerie is at the heart of the narrative with its splendid array of pastries which are just too tantalising for the reader stuck elsewhere,
The novel starts out with a real spring in its step, there is humour and sangfroid as this cosy caper evolves. It then flatlines as the various strands dovetail in a slightly convoluted fashion. Perfect reading material, however, for literary wanderlust to Provence.
Serena Kent is the author name of husband-and-wife writing duo, Deborah Lawrenson and Rob Rees and they clearly work well together as they have produced a delightful cosy murder mystery set in the heart of Provence.
Penelope Vine has reached retirement age (at the ripe age of 50!); she has tended her family, she has invested enough of her time working in forensic pathology, she is divorced. So it is time for this merry divorcée to strike out on her own. Relocation has tempted her! With the help of sharply turned out estate agent, Clémence Valencourt, she finds the supremely delapidated Chant d’Eau and decides to buy it. Her own family members feel she should seek help as this is a decision that really doesn’t suit anyone but her – maybe medication for menopause might help, therapy, a good talking to…. But she is set upon her mission, the stunning views of her new acquisition are to die for. Only someone does die, as we know right from the outset. A body is retrieved from her derelict swimming pool, seemingly that of local drunk and gambler, Manuel Avore, adorned with a playing card, the Ace of Spades (the card of death).
Clémence seems to pop up at the drop of hat “..always here, there, everywhere” which proves to be just a little unnerving. Factor in her seemingly clandestine meetings with other locals – including the handsome Mayor, Laurent Millais – and Penelope feels she has to cast a keen eye over her activities.
As Penny observes the unfolding investigation, she starts poking around herself (after all she has spent quite some time working in the forensic pathology department of the Home Office) and when she finds some old bones whilst someone appears to be taking a pot shot at her, she is all the more determined to get to the bottom of this village murder mystery that seems to centre on her newly acquired on home. Clearly she will not be able to settle into her new life until everything is resolved! But her prying is not appreciated by some of the locals…
The flavour of the area imbues the storyline with colour, smells and scenery. Penelope’s house is near Apt and as she starts to uncover the mystery that unfolds, she takes in her locale, from Bonnieux, past Lacoste (where the Marquis de Sade had his château) and many more delightful villages and scenery. This novel is an absolute delight for foodies and even Le Sanglier Paresseux at Caseneuve, where Penny meets up with handsome Mayor Millais, is featured in the book (top tip, by the way). The terrace proves to be the perfect place to sample Vacqueyras red wine.
The closed and almost incestuous nature of village life in the South of France is well depicted, old family feuds seem to rumble down the generations, gossips freely exchange information, local festivals are ubiquitous, and the odd game of Pétanque (Provençal boules) is featured in the village square. The boulangerie is at the heart of the narrative with its splendid array of pastries which are just too tantalising for the reader stuck elsewhere,
The novel starts out with a real spring in its step, there is humour and sangfroid as this cosy caper evolves. It then flatlines as the various strands dovetail in a slightly convoluted fashion. Perfect reading material, however, for literary wanderlust to Provence.
August 13, 2018
For fans of cozy mysteries with an international setting— this book doesn’t make you think too hard, and has some enjoyable scenery and gastronomic elements to it. However, I felt the characters were underdeveloped and there were some odd choices in their backstories. I’m not sure any British woman would be found uttering “hell’s bells” as often as our protagonist, and BFF Frankie absolutely comes across as obnoxiously American. Bit longer than a typical cozy read in my opinion, so if that’s your cup of tea you should check this one out in Spring 2019. Thanks for Edelweiss for the ARC.
October 8, 2019
2.5 Stars
For fans of cozy mysteries with an international setting, this book is for you.
I had such high hopes for this book. I bought it because of the cover, the graphics and colours had a nice appeal. However, “Do not judge a book by its cover!” is the saying and it, unfortunately, applies here.
The story and writing is capable and the location is great. However, it was too verbose and slow for my taste. It seemed to take forever to get somewhere and to get on with the storyline.
The book did not work for me.
For fans of cozy mysteries with an international setting, this book is for you.
I had such high hopes for this book. I bought it because of the cover, the graphics and colours had a nice appeal. However, “Do not judge a book by its cover!” is the saying and it, unfortunately, applies here.
The story and writing is capable and the location is great. However, it was too verbose and slow for my taste. It seemed to take forever to get somewhere and to get on with the storyline.
The book did not work for me.
November 21, 2018
A clever story that combines good humour, memorable characters, and an intriguing mystery, as it brings the readers into the heart of life in Provence. I loved it!
March 30, 2019
I enjoyed this book very much. Penelope Kite is recently divorced and under appreciated by her step children. She is living in England and decides to live out a dream. She buys a run down farm house with beautiful views in southern France. She envisions reading on her outside terrace and getting back into playing her cello which has fallen by the wayside during her past busy life. She has had little time for herself. She was an assistant for a well know forensic scientist in the Home Office. She has been working on crime scene material and is known for spotting the unusual and details.
Upon arriving at her new home Le Chant d Eau (The Song of Water) she finds a body floating in her swimming pool along with the ace of spades card. She seems to be targeted through out the book. One of my favorite parts of the book is when her friend Frankie flies in to give her support and help getting the house up and running. Frankie is outspoken, speaks french and is flamboyant. It was fun to read about them on their adventures-trying out new foods-meeting the locals and drinking plum brandy with a neighbor who doesn't like foreigners in his neighborhood. It was humorous and I was sorry to see Frankie leave on plane to return home back to England.
The residents of St Merlot were interesting and somewhat quirky. The chic real estate agent who watches her diet and is dressed to impress, the suave good looking mayor, the unfriendly chief of police, the neighbor who doesn't like outsiders but does make a potent plum brandy and the local bakery chef whose bakery goods are heavenly.
The mystery was quite good. I didn't have it figured out until the authors divulged it. Serena Kent, the author, is a husband/wife team. I liked it for the characters, the atmosphere, the location, the mystery and oh yes the descriptions of foods. I am looking forward to the next book.
Upon arriving at her new home Le Chant d Eau (The Song of Water) she finds a body floating in her swimming pool along with the ace of spades card. She seems to be targeted through out the book. One of my favorite parts of the book is when her friend Frankie flies in to give her support and help getting the house up and running. Frankie is outspoken, speaks french and is flamboyant. It was fun to read about them on their adventures-trying out new foods-meeting the locals and drinking plum brandy with a neighbor who doesn't like foreigners in his neighborhood. It was humorous and I was sorry to see Frankie leave on plane to return home back to England.
The residents of St Merlot were interesting and somewhat quirky. The chic real estate agent who watches her diet and is dressed to impress, the suave good looking mayor, the unfriendly chief of police, the neighbor who doesn't like outsiders but does make a potent plum brandy and the local bakery chef whose bakery goods are heavenly.
The mystery was quite good. I didn't have it figured out until the authors divulged it. Serena Kent, the author, is a husband/wife team. I liked it for the characters, the atmosphere, the location, the mystery and oh yes the descriptions of foods. I am looking forward to the next book.
June 26, 2025
As I suspected, a light summer read. Under the Tuscan Sun but in France with a dead body. Maybe more 3 1/2 stars but it was nice.
August 21, 2018
Penelope Kite is a 50 year old retired divorcee, and after years of being at everyone's beck and call she decides to start a new life by purchasing an old house in the south of France. The house is gorgeous but in need of many renovations, but Penelope is up for this challenge. She's happy - until she finds a body floating in her swimming pool! Penelope soon finds out that there is more to this death as initially supposed and with police that's not so willing to cooperate, she has to use her skills she's learnt as a former forensic pathologist's assistant. Who did it? And why? Is it something bigger, as there are also few attempts on Penelope's life?
The characters were really well - rounded, though I must admit it took me time to get used to Penelope. I'm not sure why, I had problems to get into the book and to warm to her character though there is really no particular reason why - it's just one of those things. There were, however, very many characters, and till the end I had problems to match them, to know who is who and why and if they're the baddies or the good ones, if they're significant to the plot or they're only mentioned because they just fit in to the scene. But they were also very well rounded and quirky, for example the drop - dead gorgeous mayor, Penelope's larger than life best friend Frankie who takes no prisoners and Madame Valencourt, with her brilliant diet tips. Penelope was mature, she was smart and sassy and I admired her willpower and she was really brave to drop everything like this and move to another country
The mystery was really well tackled, and it was full of surprises. There were twists that I haven't seen coming and to be honest, I have suspected probably all of the characters throughout the whole story. I think I don't have to mention the fact that I didn't guess who was the perpetrator even though, now when I look in retrospective, there were enough clever hints and tips from the author on the way. My bad.
Serena Kent's writing style is incredibly inviting and vivid. The book is set in the south of France, Provence, just like the title suggests, and the descriptions of the places, people and food were picturesque. She has managed to also reflect the spirit of the French villagers, to capture their personalities and mentality in such a realistic, true to life way. She easily brought to life the town, the landscapes, the croissants and characters. On the other hand, those many, many detailed descriptions slowed down the reading for me a little and there were moments that I had a feeling that nothing's happening actually, that we're there to admire the setting, and it also felt repetitive, with the repetitions of what has happened, what we've discovered and how far in the investigation is.
Altogether, "Death in Provence" was a really cosy read, light and breezy. It was humorous and I really liked the characters' sense of humour. There was this real French vibe to it and writing style was so warm and inviting - I am already looking towards Serena Kent's next book!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
February 10, 2019
I had such high hopes for this book. I wanted a little confection that would take me to the south of France with a soupçon of intrigue and romance. This novel is the first in a new series about an ex-pat English forensics specialist who, post-retirement, buys a house in the Luberon region and finds a dead body in her pool – what's not to like? So it kind of surprised me that it took me a long time to get through. It seemed completely in my wheelhouse and yet, after a week I was only halfway through. There’s nothing overtly bad about it; in fact, the story is good, writing is capable, location is lovely, but it felt…slow. It just seemed to take forever to get someplace, you know? And with the character's scientific background, I expected the forensic aspects of the murder to be more of a focus, but they weren't. That just left the characters roaming aimlessly through the beautiful countryside with little direction and fewer clues.
As with a few books I’ve read lately, the characters just did not fully engage me. In Death in Provence, I thought the heroine, Penny, seemed frumpy (and not in a lovable way) and timid. Yet she is only supposed to be in her early 50s. In addition, despite feelings of inadequacy after the breakup of her marriage a few years before this story takes place, she had a career helping a forensic pathologist in which she was respected and knowledgeable. Penny is obviously smart and together, but she felt more passive than passionate. Plus, I thought the other characters were quite clichéd. So, maybe a little more confidence and sexiness in the book would have improved it for me?
Despite all that, I didn't leave it unfinished, which says something. There were lots of promising things here, and I'm hoping if the writer does a sequel it will hit the right notes for me.
As with a few books I’ve read lately, the characters just did not fully engage me. In Death in Provence, I thought the heroine, Penny, seemed frumpy (and not in a lovable way) and timid. Yet she is only supposed to be in her early 50s. In addition, despite feelings of inadequacy after the breakup of her marriage a few years before this story takes place, she had a career helping a forensic pathologist in which she was respected and knowledgeable. Penny is obviously smart and together, but she felt more passive than passionate. Plus, I thought the other characters were quite clichéd. So, maybe a little more confidence and sexiness in the book would have improved it for me?
Despite all that, I didn't leave it unfinished, which says something. There were lots of promising things here, and I'm hoping if the writer does a sequel it will hit the right notes for me.
December 14, 2019
Great start to a new series!
December 25, 2019
Meandering plot with increasingly bewildering questions. Animated characters and the setting kept me interested
February 2, 2019
DEATH IN PROVENCE is a wonderful, light, and relaxed read with all of the matching vibes you get when on holiday. That’s exactly how I felt - this novel is almost as good being on a long vacation.
It is a refreshing, mystery fiction novel set in wonderfully scenic St Merlot, a sleepy, quiet village that has infrequent visitors at the unfashionable end of the Luberon Valley, France. St Merlot is unspoilt, with dry stone walls and wildflowers.
What’s really likeable about it straight-away are the opening chapters that draw you into the main character, Penelope Kite. Recently retired and divorced, she is an optimistic, happy, fifty-year-old with plenty of joie-de-vivre. Penelope, or Penny to her friends, has put her unfaithful ex-husband and her ungrateful stepchildren first, for a long time. Since she left her job in forensics at the Home Office in England, she’s been an unpaid babysitter and chauffeur for her grandchildren. Now, she’s going to start living for herself so she buys her dream house, Le Chant d’Eau, or The Song of Water. The stone farmhouse tucked high in the hills is in need of major restoration but is complete with a garden, swimming pool, and sweeping mountain vistas.
But not long after her arrival at Le Chant d’Eau, a corpse is found floating in her swimming pool. The local detective doesn’t seem particularly interested in finding out either the truth or the murderer, but Penny knows a thing or two about murder investigations herself so she starts an investigation of her own.
Enter Clemence Valencourt, the chic but supercilious estate agent, the disdainful chief of police, Inspector Paul Gamelin brought in from the headquarters of the Police Municipale in Cavaillon to investigate. He is 40-ish, has a tanned narrow face, greying hair and a grave demeanour. He also speaks excellent English. The devilishly handsome local mayor is called in to formally identify the corpse. He is the maire de St Merlot, and is gorgeous, with floppy sun-streaked hair, a caramel tan and chiselled cheekbones He also has stunning dark blue eyes...................
All this and being tempted by the delightful food and drink delicacies that Provence has to offer. Luckily her kind and high-spirited, old friend, Frankie who is conveniently fluid in French is just a flight away.
One of the highlights of the book is following the many twists and turns of the plot. I liked the fact that Penny is a smart 50-year-old woman who has lots of life experience and is trying to come to terms with ageing and that she is not quite as naive as her new neighbours in St. Merlot seem to believe. Both the plot and the character development are excellent, and the story is captivating and engaging. It held my interest from start to finish.
DEATH IN PROVENCE was an interesting novel particularly for the interplay of the different secondary characters as well as the primary ones - a reticent and monosyllabic neighbour, an eccentric but honourable gardener, a jaunty and smiling electrician, and a close-knit village community, to name but a few. Plenty of ups and downs along the way and plenty of surprises. I loved Serena Kent’s writing style which I found to be so vivid and very easy to read. The descriptions of the places, people and food were very real and it was easy to imagine that you were actually there. She has reflected the spirit of the French villagers, their individuality brilliantly.
Although I did not figure out who was behind the murders, even though all the clues were there, I had a great time guessing and I loved it! I was very satisfied with the ending. I have been inspired to read more from Serena Kent and I highly recommend this book. I suggest wholeheartedly that you add it to your reading list.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It is a refreshing, mystery fiction novel set in wonderfully scenic St Merlot, a sleepy, quiet village that has infrequent visitors at the unfashionable end of the Luberon Valley, France. St Merlot is unspoilt, with dry stone walls and wildflowers.
What’s really likeable about it straight-away are the opening chapters that draw you into the main character, Penelope Kite. Recently retired and divorced, she is an optimistic, happy, fifty-year-old with plenty of joie-de-vivre. Penelope, or Penny to her friends, has put her unfaithful ex-husband and her ungrateful stepchildren first, for a long time. Since she left her job in forensics at the Home Office in England, she’s been an unpaid babysitter and chauffeur for her grandchildren. Now, she’s going to start living for herself so she buys her dream house, Le Chant d’Eau, or The Song of Water. The stone farmhouse tucked high in the hills is in need of major restoration but is complete with a garden, swimming pool, and sweeping mountain vistas.
But not long after her arrival at Le Chant d’Eau, a corpse is found floating in her swimming pool. The local detective doesn’t seem particularly interested in finding out either the truth or the murderer, but Penny knows a thing or two about murder investigations herself so she starts an investigation of her own.
Enter Clemence Valencourt, the chic but supercilious estate agent, the disdainful chief of police, Inspector Paul Gamelin brought in from the headquarters of the Police Municipale in Cavaillon to investigate. He is 40-ish, has a tanned narrow face, greying hair and a grave demeanour. He also speaks excellent English. The devilishly handsome local mayor is called in to formally identify the corpse. He is the maire de St Merlot, and is gorgeous, with floppy sun-streaked hair, a caramel tan and chiselled cheekbones He also has stunning dark blue eyes...................
All this and being tempted by the delightful food and drink delicacies that Provence has to offer. Luckily her kind and high-spirited, old friend, Frankie who is conveniently fluid in French is just a flight away.
One of the highlights of the book is following the many twists and turns of the plot. I liked the fact that Penny is a smart 50-year-old woman who has lots of life experience and is trying to come to terms with ageing and that she is not quite as naive as her new neighbours in St. Merlot seem to believe. Both the plot and the character development are excellent, and the story is captivating and engaging. It held my interest from start to finish.
DEATH IN PROVENCE was an interesting novel particularly for the interplay of the different secondary characters as well as the primary ones - a reticent and monosyllabic neighbour, an eccentric but honourable gardener, a jaunty and smiling electrician, and a close-knit village community, to name but a few. Plenty of ups and downs along the way and plenty of surprises. I loved Serena Kent’s writing style which I found to be so vivid and very easy to read. The descriptions of the places, people and food were very real and it was easy to imagine that you were actually there. She has reflected the spirit of the French villagers, their individuality brilliantly.
Although I did not figure out who was behind the murders, even though all the clues were there, I had a great time guessing and I loved it! I was very satisfied with the ending. I have been inspired to read more from Serena Kent and I highly recommend this book. I suggest wholeheartedly that you add it to your reading list.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2019
Early retiree Penelope Kite is happily divorced, but the stepchildren she raised are needy and still expect her to pitch in with their busy households. After one too many instances of ingratitude, she buys a decrepit farmhouse on the unfashionable side of Provence and moves to France. But what does she find there but a body in her swimming pool! The police suggest it's an accident--the victim was a well-known local drunk and layabout--not realizing that Penny was the much-relied upon secretary of one of England's leading forensic experts. She's not another nosy old lady--she knows more about dead bodies than they do. Her surly neighbor, her friendly gardener, the baker of superb and calorific pastries, the chic real estate agent who is almost unbelievably helpful, the mayor who couldn't be involved in anything bad because he's so goodlooking, and Penny's best friend Frankie, who makes several trips from England to help out all enliven the cast of characters.
December 13, 2018
I so enjoyed Death in Provence.
Although I’m still to visit Provence, I’ve always loved the locale, the colours, and the lavender. This story brings them all out and I loved it.
It’s a light-hearted murder mystery, filled with intrigue and laughs. A loved the characters. The main character, Penelope Kite is a wonderful, older woman, clever, and determined to discover why there was a body in her swimming pool. Not what she expected when she bought a home in the small village of St Merlot.
This is a perfect holiday read. Escape to the sunshine. I highly recommend it.
Although I’m still to visit Provence, I’ve always loved the locale, the colours, and the lavender. This story brings them all out and I loved it.
It’s a light-hearted murder mystery, filled with intrigue and laughs. A loved the characters. The main character, Penelope Kite is a wonderful, older woman, clever, and determined to discover why there was a body in her swimming pool. Not what she expected when she bought a home in the small village of St Merlot.
This is a perfect holiday read. Escape to the sunshine. I highly recommend it.
March 1, 2019
This was such a fun cozy mystery. It was very light and airy and will make for the perfect summer/ beach read!
What would you do when you go through a divorce and finally retire from your job and it seems like your kids are just using you as a babysitter? Penelope decided it was her chance to buy her dream house in Provence or so she thought. Provence is the definition of small town and old fashioned and doesn’t seem too fond of newcomers. Since her first night at the house and finding a dead body in her pool it seems she is very unwanted. Her real estate agent keeps showing up, her neighbor hates foreigners, and not to mention she keeps getting shot at. And to top it off she found another dead body! So who can she trust and who killed the man floating in her pool?
Overall I have this a 3.5 star rating. It was a fun read and had a little bit of a Louise Penny vibe to it. But I could have done without all the French in it! I think you should add this to your summer TBR and be ready to want some rosè to go with it!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
What would you do when you go through a divorce and finally retire from your job and it seems like your kids are just using you as a babysitter? Penelope decided it was her chance to buy her dream house in Provence or so she thought. Provence is the definition of small town and old fashioned and doesn’t seem too fond of newcomers. Since her first night at the house and finding a dead body in her pool it seems she is very unwanted. Her real estate agent keeps showing up, her neighbor hates foreigners, and not to mention she keeps getting shot at. And to top it off she found another dead body! So who can she trust and who killed the man floating in her pool?
Overall I have this a 3.5 star rating. It was a fun read and had a little bit of a Louise Penny vibe to it. But I could have done without all the French in it! I think you should add this to your summer TBR and be ready to want some rosè to go with it!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
September 15, 2020
Divertidíssimo. Cozy mystery tudo de bom: investigação amadora numa vila francesa com detalhes da vida em provence.
May 5, 2019
I’ll have another carafe of rosé, and the next installment of this series. Please and thank you.
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February 19, 2019
3.5 stars.
The first installment in the Penelope Kite series, Death in Provence by Serena Kent is a charming cozy mystery.
Following a holiday in the French countryside, Penelope Kite rather impulsively purchases a rundown country home in Provence. Upon her arrival, she is confronted with an overgrown yard, falling down plaster, no electricity or running water. Drowning her sorrows in a delicious rosé, Penelope is startled by the drunken appearance of a man who claims he owns her property. The next day, the same man is found dead in her swimming pool and Penelope finds herself playing amateur sleuth as she tries to uncover the man's killer.
Penelope is in her early fifties, divorced, retired and tired of being taken advantage of by her unappreciative children. She is unsure she made the right decision following her out of character purchase but she is eager to settle into her new home. The murder of local Manuel Avore is certainly puzzling but she is also interested in finding out why her estate agent Clémence Valencourt keeps appearing at her new home. And why is gorgeous mayor Laurent Millais so involved in the case? Penelope is also put off by Chief of Police Georges Reyssens' dismissive attitude and seemingly lack of interest in solving the Manuel's murder.
Penelope is joined by her best friend, Frankie Turner-Blake, who is the perfect foil for Penelope's uncertainty. Frankie is brash, outspoken and loves her bling. Her French is also much more proficient than Penelope's and she discovers some very interesting and somewhat troubling information. Frankie and Penelope then team up to do a little snooping around before Frankie returns to England.
While the premise of Death in Provence is intriguing, the pacing is slow and the story is a little repetitive. Penelope's former profession provides her with insight into the goings on, but her lack of self-confidence leaves her second-guessing herself. With a very unexpected plot twist, Serena Kent brings this cozy mystery to a very surprising yet satisfying conclusion. Fans of the genre will want to grab a glass of rosé while reading this enjoyable beginning to the Penelope Kite series.
The first installment in the Penelope Kite series, Death in Provence by Serena Kent is a charming cozy mystery.
Following a holiday in the French countryside, Penelope Kite rather impulsively purchases a rundown country home in Provence. Upon her arrival, she is confronted with an overgrown yard, falling down plaster, no electricity or running water. Drowning her sorrows in a delicious rosé, Penelope is startled by the drunken appearance of a man who claims he owns her property. The next day, the same man is found dead in her swimming pool and Penelope finds herself playing amateur sleuth as she tries to uncover the man's killer.
Penelope is in her early fifties, divorced, retired and tired of being taken advantage of by her unappreciative children. She is unsure she made the right decision following her out of character purchase but she is eager to settle into her new home. The murder of local Manuel Avore is certainly puzzling but she is also interested in finding out why her estate agent Clémence Valencourt keeps appearing at her new home. And why is gorgeous mayor Laurent Millais so involved in the case? Penelope is also put off by Chief of Police Georges Reyssens' dismissive attitude and seemingly lack of interest in solving the Manuel's murder.
Penelope is joined by her best friend, Frankie Turner-Blake, who is the perfect foil for Penelope's uncertainty. Frankie is brash, outspoken and loves her bling. Her French is also much more proficient than Penelope's and she discovers some very interesting and somewhat troubling information. Frankie and Penelope then team up to do a little snooping around before Frankie returns to England.
While the premise of Death in Provence is intriguing, the pacing is slow and the story is a little repetitive. Penelope's former profession provides her with insight into the goings on, but her lack of self-confidence leaves her second-guessing herself. With a very unexpected plot twist, Serena Kent brings this cozy mystery to a very surprising yet satisfying conclusion. Fans of the genre will want to grab a glass of rosé while reading this enjoyable beginning to the Penelope Kite series.
January 25, 2019
“Her dream house in Provence. The cicadas, the annoying wasps. If only she had known what lay in store.” ... and a dead body floating in her pool.
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery set in Provence as I have always wanted to visit there. This book with lots of rose wine, delicious food, charming villages, lavender, and French characters, gives a wonderful sense of place.
Ex Pat Penelope helps solve the mystery of dead bodies and bullets flying by her everywhere she seems to go. Of course she meets many great characters in her new village and I look forward to see where her new friendships and possible love interests go in the following books of this new series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery set in Provence as I have always wanted to visit there. This book with lots of rose wine, delicious food, charming villages, lavender, and French characters, gives a wonderful sense of place.
Ex Pat Penelope helps solve the mystery of dead bodies and bullets flying by her everywhere she seems to go. Of course she meets many great characters in her new village and I look forward to see where her new friendships and possible love interests go in the following books of this new series.
October 10, 2018
First of all, hats off to anyone who can pull off writing a book with their husband (and both of them survive the event)... I love my husband dearly, but if you ever want to see us go completely off the rails, put us together on an artistic project. Whoo-boy!
That being said, this book is really a fun read. One of the things I loved about it was the name-dropping of Poirot, Cadfael, and some other of my well-known and much-loved British sleuths.... however, I found it exceedingly funny that middle-aged Penelope and her large, boisterous pal Frankie so very much resembled gardening murder sleuths Rosemary Boxer and Laura Thyme (of "Rosemary & Thyme" TV fame)... (also one of my all-time faves, I bought the entire series box set on DVD)... but those names were never dropped. Maybe the authors felt it would be obvious and didn't need to be said? I mean, Penelope even drives a Range Rover (just like Rosemary Boxer!)... though hers is new...
... which brings me to one of my pet peeves about this story. Penelope is retired, driving a brand new Range Rover, and dining out for almost every meal - and yet we never know where all her money is coming from. It's just kind of odd... usually in a story, if a character is either broke or has so much money they never have to think twice about buying anything they want (like, oh, say, a house in Provence...), there's usually a plot device (won the lottery, living of major alimony after divorce of millionaire, etc.) that explains it. In this story, not so much.
I know every book has to end, and I just sort of wish the rapid-last-twenty-pages-of-murder-explanation had been avoided (it made me a bit dizzy), and I wish that some sort of romance had actually happened in the story to the main character, (whether with the mayor, or the mysterious Camrose who we hear about but never see, or even the guy who runs the bakery... hey, free croissants!) rather than using it as a teaser for a possible next novel. The main characters certainly reveled in their sensory satisfaction (I lost count of how many bottles of rose this lady drank!), so it leaves the reader feeling a bit denied the pleasure of reading about a little romance in amongst the cadavers (not literally... ew!).
All in all, a great summer read - but warning: Have a bottle of rose handy, because even if you don't drink it that often, these ladies will have you longing for one before you hit chapter three!
That being said, this book is really a fun read. One of the things I loved about it was the name-dropping of Poirot, Cadfael, and some other of my well-known and much-loved British sleuths.... however, I found it exceedingly funny that middle-aged Penelope and her large, boisterous pal Frankie so very much resembled gardening murder sleuths Rosemary Boxer and Laura Thyme (of "Rosemary & Thyme" TV fame)... (also one of my all-time faves, I bought the entire series box set on DVD)... but those names were never dropped. Maybe the authors felt it would be obvious and didn't need to be said? I mean, Penelope even drives a Range Rover (just like Rosemary Boxer!)... though hers is new...
... which brings me to one of my pet peeves about this story. Penelope is retired, driving a brand new Range Rover, and dining out for almost every meal - and yet we never know where all her money is coming from. It's just kind of odd... usually in a story, if a character is either broke or has so much money they never have to think twice about buying anything they want (like, oh, say, a house in Provence...), there's usually a plot device (won the lottery, living of major alimony after divorce of millionaire, etc.) that explains it. In this story, not so much.
I know every book has to end, and I just sort of wish the rapid-last-twenty-pages-of-murder-explanation had been avoided (it made me a bit dizzy), and I wish that some sort of romance had actually happened in the story to the main character, (whether with the mayor, or the mysterious Camrose who we hear about but never see, or even the guy who runs the bakery... hey, free croissants!) rather than using it as a teaser for a possible next novel. The main characters certainly reveled in their sensory satisfaction (I lost count of how many bottles of rose this lady drank!), so it leaves the reader feeling a bit denied the pleasure of reading about a little romance in amongst the cadavers (not literally... ew!).
All in all, a great summer read - but warning: Have a bottle of rose handy, because even if you don't drink it that often, these ladies will have you longing for one before you hit chapter three!
October 13, 2018
I was looking forward to an escape to France with these characters, but unfortunately I couldn't wait to leave it all behind.
The biggest problem for me was that I didn't like any of the characters. Perhaps worse, I didn't find any of them interesting. Penelope is in her early 50s, and often behaves like an erratic, impulsive, clueless teenager. She's retired, already, and apparently has a ton of money because renovating an old home in need of an immense amount of work doesn't seem to worry her from a financial perspective. She has ungrateful, self-centered adult children and spoiled, mean grandchildren yet for whatever reason she allows them to walk all over her. On a whim, she escapes from England to France, where we meet a cast of odd characters, though they're not odd in a fun way. Everyone in this little French town is just plain ridiculous.
The pacing, particularly in the first half, is quite slow. We learn that Penelope is slightly overweight, hasn't had much happiness in her life, and likes wine - a lot. She also has a best friend who is brash and likes sex. That's about covers the high points.
There is a lot of French and in this book. Sometimes the meaning is understandable given the context, while other times the French phrases won't mean a thing to you if you don't speak the language. My high school French lessons only covered me partway here.
The plot takes a long time to form. By the time we got there, I didn't really care what happened to any of the characters.
This type of cozy mystery, for me, relies on likable characters with a spark, and I just didn't find them here.
*I received an advance copy from the publisher, via Amazon Vine, in exchange for my honest review.*
The biggest problem for me was that I didn't like any of the characters. Perhaps worse, I didn't find any of them interesting. Penelope is in her early 50s, and often behaves like an erratic, impulsive, clueless teenager. She's retired, already, and apparently has a ton of money because renovating an old home in need of an immense amount of work doesn't seem to worry her from a financial perspective. She has ungrateful, self-centered adult children and spoiled, mean grandchildren yet for whatever reason she allows them to walk all over her. On a whim, she escapes from England to France, where we meet a cast of odd characters, though they're not odd in a fun way. Everyone in this little French town is just plain ridiculous.
The pacing, particularly in the first half, is quite slow. We learn that Penelope is slightly overweight, hasn't had much happiness in her life, and likes wine - a lot. She also has a best friend who is brash and likes sex. That's about covers the high points.
There is a lot of French and in this book. Sometimes the meaning is understandable given the context, while other times the French phrases won't mean a thing to you if you don't speak the language. My high school French lessons only covered me partway here.
The plot takes a long time to form. By the time we got there, I didn't really care what happened to any of the characters.
This type of cozy mystery, for me, relies on likable characters with a spark, and I just didn't find them here.
*I received an advance copy from the publisher, via Amazon Vine, in exchange for my honest review.*
August 22, 2018
We meet Penelope Kite at the beginning of her new adventure in Provence. Having swapped life in Surrey, where she is at the beck and call of a demanding family, for a farmhouse with potential in the south of France, things immediately start to go wrong. The discovery of a dead body floating in her swimming pool, strange comings and goings on her property, and a painfully slow police investigation, mean her idyllic new life in France is anything but.
Thankfully she has plenty of chilled rosé and fresh pain au chocolats, and she soon discovers a rich and varied local community in the village of St Merlot. With a background in forensic investigation she can’t help but try to piece together the suspicious circumstances of her neighbour’s demise, but the unfriendly Chief of Police, overly charming Mayor and an estate agent who keeps popping up unexpectedly, would all rather she left well alone.
This was a great fun read that contained all the best bits of life in France, fantastic local characters and attention to detail that anyone who has spent time in a French village will appreciate. With plenty of humour and a mystery to be solved too, all set against the landscape of Provence that came to life from the pages, this book was perfect holiday reading, for the bargain price of 99p.
Happily, I know that the next book in the series is well on the way and I can't wait to head back to St Merlot and read more.
Thankfully she has plenty of chilled rosé and fresh pain au chocolats, and she soon discovers a rich and varied local community in the village of St Merlot. With a background in forensic investigation she can’t help but try to piece together the suspicious circumstances of her neighbour’s demise, but the unfriendly Chief of Police, overly charming Mayor and an estate agent who keeps popping up unexpectedly, would all rather she left well alone.
This was a great fun read that contained all the best bits of life in France, fantastic local characters and attention to detail that anyone who has spent time in a French village will appreciate. With plenty of humour and a mystery to be solved too, all set against the landscape of Provence that came to life from the pages, this book was perfect holiday reading, for the bargain price of 99p.
Happily, I know that the next book in the series is well on the way and I can't wait to head back to St Merlot and read more.
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