Oscar Wilde – Carol's Notebook

Foul Play by Helena Marchmont

February 23, 2023February 21, 2023 by CarolNo Comments

Foul Play is a fun addition to the Bunburry series. The story revolves around a lost play by none other than Oscar Wilde, and of course an ensuing murder. Marge is the executrix of her friend's estate so several of our friends, including Alfie, head off to the mansion. We get a good introduction to all the characters before the murder occurs so we have several suspects. The secret hidden in the library is definitely worth killing for. The plot was intriguing and the characters are well drawn. I especially loved the Oscar Wilde fans who descend on the town. I do wish Alfie's love life would get straightened out or let go by the wayside. These stories are short enough, I don't need the mystery given less attention so that we can see more of how bad Alfie is at communicating with women he's attracted to....

When Night Falls by Helena Marchmont

February 22, 2023February 21, 2023 by CarolNo Comments

When burglaries start happening in Bunburry, everyone is concerned their house will be the next target. When Alfie's two favorite people become victims, Alfie and Emma, who's supposed to be on leave, have to get involved. In the meantime, a new arrival from London has formed a vigilante group that is threatening the local youth with baseball bats. The mystery was good. Alfie jumps to conclusions a bit too quickly but is able to change his mind as they find new evidence. There are a couple of legitimate suspects and I liked how the clues worked together. Alfie and Emma make a good team, but they need to communicate better when it comes to their personal relationship. I enjoyed this installment. It's a fun, light series. I enjoy spending time with the quirky residents of Bunburry. I do wish I could have some of the fudge, though....

A Taste of Murder by Helen Marchmont

June 7, 2019June 7, 2019 by Carol4 Comments

“A Taste of Murder” is the third in the Bunburry series. I guess it could stand alone, but I’d suggest reading the first two. They're short anyway, around 100 pages, so it’s not a huge commitment, and that way you’ll be introduced to the town and Alfie and have more background going on this one. Alfie is settling into village life. He has friends and a favorite restaurant, even though his friend, Oscar, is still trying to lure him back to London with food and Oscar Wilde quotes. And of course we have another murder in quiet little Bunburry. Just after Alfie's friend, Betty, learns that a local farmer is no longer treating his cows humanely, the farmer ends up dead. The incompetent and mean sheriff of course jumps to the conclusion that the killer must have been Betty and Alfie's ready to jump to her defense. I always wish the Bunburry books were a little longer. I really like the characters and the charming town....