Der heilige Sünder

Bunburry #10

by Helena Marchmont, Uve Teschner (Narrator)

Harold Wilson, der örtliche Polizist im malerischen Cotswolds-Dorf Bunburry, kann Alfie McAlister nicht ausstehen. Alfie ist alles, was er nicht ist: gutaussehend, beliebt, vermögend – und deutlicher erfolgreicher, wenn es darum geht, Verbrecher zu fangen. Aber es gibt jemanden, den Wilson noch viel weniger mag – und das ist Reverend Philip Brown. Als der Pfarrer verdächtigt wird, einen Bauernhofladen überfallen und verwüstet zu haben, ist das Wasser auf die Mühlen des Polizisten. Denn der Reverend behauptet, sich nicht erinnern zu können, wo er an dem fraglichen Abend war. Alfie ist von Philips Unschuld überzeugt und fängt gemeinsam mit Liz und Marge an zu ermitteln. Doch damit beschwören sie die Geister der Vergangenheit herauf…

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, Crime, British Literature, Fiction, Novella

Audiobook

First published February 26, 2021

About the author

Helena Marchmont is a pseudonym of Olga Wojtas, who was born and brought up in Edinburgh. She was encouraged to write by an inspirational English teacher, Iona M. Cameron. Olga won a Scottish Book Trust New Writers Award in 2015, has had more than 30 short stories published in magazines and anthologies and recently published her first mystery Miss Blaine's Prefect and the Golden Samovar.

Reviews

[♡ Sonja Rosa Lisa ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Der zehnte Band dieser gemütlichen Krimireihe hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Dieser Band ist ruhig, es gibt keine Toten, nur einen verwüsteten Biohofladen. Verdächtigt macht sich ausgerechnet der Pfarrer, doch Alfie, Liz und Marge können das nicht glauben. Zeitgleich taucht ein fremder Mann in Bunburry auf, der Ähnlichkeit mit dem Pfarrer aufweist...
💛 Ich mag ja grundsätzlich Geschichten, die sich irgendwie um Rätsel aus der Vergangenheit drehen. Vielleicht hat mir deshalb dieser Band so gut gefallen. Ich mochte das Geheimnisvolle, das Rätselraten und Ermitteln, die Charaktere, das Setting,...
Es hat für mich einfach alles gepasst. 💛

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ = Quite Good.
Audio.
#10 in the Bunburry series.
No,there isn’t a great deal happening but what you do get is a gentle country life mystery experience.Very Midsomer Murder in style. All the characters are fabulous.

[Shiloah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love these Bunburry mysteries.

[Arliss · Rating 3 out of 5]

I use these Bunburry novellas, and the very similar Cherringham and Mydworth series, as palate cleansers both during and after heavier reads. There novellas are all just about the fun and they all deliver. Alfie, Liz and Oscar are all a delight to read. Oddly, starting in “Sinners and Saints” Marge has suddenly become incredibly annoying. She is both shrill and foolish. The author dramatically altered her character and I’m hoping she changes it back. Otherwise, this was a lovely little mystery and I enjoyed the read.

[Mo · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was not much of a mystery.

Pro - no Betty in this one 😊
Con - lots of Harold Wilson 😢

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes, this tenth novella in this fun cozy series does feature the unassuming vicar Philip Brown, but there are plenty of sinners to go around. We learn a lot more about Reverend Brown, but I won’t reveal any of it, as it would spoil this charming tale.

An inorganic farm store sells produce and runs a bit of a tea shop on the outskirts of Bunburry; however, after a long-haired oddball arrives, it’s vandalized. The stranger looks remarkably like Reverend Brown, and the village’s hard-drinking idiot sergeant wants desperately to get poor Brown. Enter the Bunburry Triangle — London transplant Alfie McAllister and his two elderly friends, Marge Redwood and Liz Hopkins — plus Liz’s great-niece, Constable Emma Hollis. They solve the crime, foiling the dreadful Sergeant Harold Wilson. I know, I know: This synopsis does make the story sound twee, but I promise it’s not! Please read and find out for yourself.

[Bobbi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars for the actual mystery. 4 stars for the great narration. Still loving the characters. Nice short read.

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I still have very little sympathy or regard for Sergeant Wilson.
We get more insight into him in this book as we actually get a section from his POV. And it could be played as making him a bit more sympathetic, but my dislike of him is more informed now. Before he was a bit of a caricature, you know the incompetent police officer that always has to be in a cozy to give the amateurs' a reason to poke their noses into ongoing criminal cases. But he's not only a bad police officer, but a less than ideal person overall. He flat out refuses to take responsibility for his actions and plays the victim card when the consequences for HIS choices and decisions come to fruition. plus it is now confirmed, the man is delusion, a stalker and probably would have turned into an abusive husband since he drinks so much and has no anger management skills. He punched the vicar in a drunken rage and wouldn't believe Ruth didn't want more than friendship with him. Poor woman left town to get away from him and he didn't get the hint. Philip forgiving the man is fine. But he was absolutely right in making sure he didn't know anything about his sister or her whereabouts. Too bad they couldn't get a restraining order for him. Not that I think that would work much. Seeing as how Wilson would think he's above the law. He already does anyway. Driving while drunk. IN THE POLICE CRUISER I might add, and he wonders why he can't get a promotion.
Other than the sergeant I'm glad Alfie isn't pining over Betty in this one. Thank you for moving on. And it was nice to get to know more about the Vicar. Although Harry Dasa (sorry no idea for the spelling) is an obvious red herring so I will admit I was waiting for them to find the actual perpetrator the entire time.
This book isn't so much about the mystery/ crime as it's about the relationships and the dynamics of the people involved. Which is fine, I don't read/listen to these books for the mystery. (I mean for the most part they are very predictable.) I have other books for that. But these are enjoyable short stories I can listen to for a couple hours while doing chores and the like.
I really hope they do not change the narrator. I think Nathaniel does a great job and it would not be the same if they changed out now. (Sorry I just get really paranoid. Another series I was listening to switched narrators and now I cannot continued. I tried and couldn't do it. Bring back the original narrator I tell you.)
So Recommended? Sure especially if you've come this far into the series. But like I said the mystery isn't the main focus here.
Buy/Borrow? I've been purchasing the audio books although I may start getting the actual books. But I think this should be between you and your wallet and if you've invested in the series.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hahahahaha. As always, the Bunburry series charms and delights. The characters and stories develop from novel to novel and the plots thicken. The Bunberry Triangle and the Bunberry Parallel both help to solve the crime. Sergeant Wilson is his usual obstreperous self.

There are enough well drawn characters in the idyllic town in the Cotswolds (and outside of it) to keep us entertained into the future. This particular novelette was one I had previously missed in the series. It was great to catch up on the backstory of local green advocate and priest, Father Philip, as he is caught up in the confusion surrounding an incident in a local farm market.

Perfect for a rainy day or as an escape from the hideousness of everyday news. Thank you Helena Marchmont. I hope you let those awkward lovers unite sometime soon.

[Tania Rook · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's hard to be a farmer. I mean, it just is. But it's even harder when you set up a little shop to give you a bit of additional income and then someone comes and trashes it. Even worse when it's Bunburry's priest in drag. I mean, that's a lot.

It's also not what happened. You don't need a Bunburry Triangle if the goings on are all straightforward. This one is about family, more specifically family relations that aren't necessarily rose-coloured. Alfie is contemplating finding his father and has complicated feelings about what that means, so time to look at it from a different perspective, prying into someone else's sordid past.

And the new character for this episode is Lavender Gin. i mean, Harredassa, obviously. But also Lavender Gin. Somewhat ironic given Harredassa doesn't drink.

[Susanne Tz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ich mag Cosy Crime, und Bunburry sowie seine Bewohner sind sympathisch. Dennoch scheint mir die Serie so langsam etwas auf der Stelle zu treten.

Es gibt keine Charakterentwicklungen, keine Beziehungen, keine Änderungen. Nur die Verbrechen, was in diesem Fall nur ein kleiner Diebstahl war und entsprechend keine Spannung aufkam.

Kein spannender Fall und dazu auch noch sonst nichts neues - da ist es ganz gut, dass das Buch nur 144 Seiten hat. Grad so das richtige, um beim Arzt oder im Bus die Wartezeit zu überbrücken; ein paar Seiten dahinplätschernde kleine Geschichte, auf die man sich nicht gross konzentrieren muss.

Aber ich glaube, ich sollte mich nun von der Serie lösen, es wird langweilig.

[Kataklicik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook : Spotify.
Read by Nathaniel Parker.

What? No one dies in this one? 😜

I think this offering is more a development of the Bunburry village characters than it is of a mystery. Sure, there is a case to be solved but it felt more of an aside compared to the insights given into Sergeant Wilson and the Vicar. I initially rated this 3 stars but decided for 4 because it was refreshing that the story looks into other Bunburry folk rather than just concentrating on the Bunburry Parallels (and one Other). Looking forward to more stories!

Plus : Nathaniel Parker is brilliant.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bunburry and Yoga?

These short stories from a place in the Cotswolds are quick and funny and delightful. I have read each with joy following the inhabitants in their daily activities. Each book in this series add a bit more to the place and
those who live there. The books are
stand alone stories but I have loved
following along and watching the
Bunburry happenings!

[Debbie Camp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summers and Saints

I chose this rating because it's the rating I give to all Bunbury mysteries. The only thing I don't Kris the name Bunbury Triangle. It should be Bunbury Amateur Detectives, then they can include Oscar and Emma and be BAD. I tell family, friends, and acquaintance about these books. Sometimes even strangers

[Gary and Sandra Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute

Ms. Marchmont writes such entertaining and witty stories and charming characters that keeps you coming back for more. This book centers on Banburry's vicar and a major secret he holds. There is also a vandalism that Alfie and Emma need to handle in their inimitable way. Very enjoyable story.

[Kaija · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lukijana Nathaniel Parker.
Kylläpä olikin Nathanielilla taas kunnon eläytymistä eri ääniin ja murteisiin, kun henkilögalleria laajeni tässä kirjassa. Pidin tästä, hienovaraista huumoria ei oltu unohdettu ja Alfin ja Emman paraabeli oli taas iskussa. Monta käännettä tässä mukavassa kertomuksessa. Englantilaisen maaseudun kuvaus on kaunista.

[E.D. · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit abrupt...

I understand that writing a series can be a bit trying at times. Perhaps Ms. Larchmont should give Bunburry a pass for awhile and start a new series. This book was tired and short and the ending was like suddenly falling off the edge of a gully, it came so abruptly. I look forward to more of Ms. Marchmont's work because she really is very good.

[Pinky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming Bunburry mystery that introduces a new relative of the Vicar and some hiking at a neighboring organic farm shop. Alfie’s finally ready to redecorate/update a bit of Aunt Augusta’s cottage. The psychedelic wallpaper and hallelujah chorus doorbell will stay but the bathroom may get a makeover. We’ll see what happens next.

[Chautona Havig · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are too many to review, thanks to Goodreads' not-working sidebar, so I'm copying and pasting a series review on each one:

Marchmont has created a delightful village, hilarious characters, and interesting mysteries that kept me buying the next to find out what's up in the Cotswolds. An absolute delight.

[William Dyck · Rating 3 out of 5]

Poor story

Too short why do people like this? I really can't understand it . I want depth and a feeling of satisfaction. Instead an author who her "book" off in a day. Nice work if you can get it.

[Jennifer Hoey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good visit to Burberry

I had a tough week at work and didn’t sleep a wink this week

I finally turned off the computer and thoroughly enjoyed Saints and Sinners in one sitting

[Teddi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think I'm done with this series. Some of the characters are getting on my nerves and it's all getting a bit repetitive. And the perpetrator of the crime in this one didn't even show up until the end. That is really annoying.

[Chrissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick cozy mysteries are like my chocolate.

Another engaging, quick read. Alfie seemed a bit behind the mystery curve on this one, but played the role of a good friend. And I am always amused by the spunk and wisdom of Liz and Marge.

[Lisa Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting a bit nervous about the timing of subsequent audiobooks. Pretty invested in the ongoing story lines, and would like some resolution, particularly the identity of Alfie’s parents, and how they get rid of that awful policeman (he is unredeemable).

[Iris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came across this audiobook by scrolling for a new audiobook and I came across Sinners and Saints. I enjoyed it very much, I did not like her boss too much sexist comments but everything else was very nice. I did not want it to end but i was very happy with this audiobook.

[Annie Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another triumph in a very entertaining series

Perfect entertainment as always from Bunburry village and intelligent and funny dialogue and situations all the way through. Love this series so much.

[Homerun2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun series of mystery shorts featuring an English village and recurring cast of characters.

[linda heckendorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun book

It was interesting with a twist.
It had a lot of new characters that added to the character of the book.

[Leserling Belana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it as much as the others in the series. Pity there is no audio version, and the next one will only be released in June this year.

[LeeMcFarland · Rating 2 out of 5]

Weak and poor

What great characters the author has created over the past books,then almost destroyed them all with a plot and story so weak.
A great disappointment.