Death of a Dreamer

by: M.C. Beaton

Published by: Warner Books

Reviewed by Mayra Calvani

(available in both hard cover and paperback)

Pack your imaginary bags and get ready to join Constable Hamish Macbeth as he solves yet another crime in the picturesque village of Lochdubh in the Scottish Highlands in this the latest installment in the Hamish Macbeth mystery series.

When hopeless dreamer Effie Garrard moves to Lochdubh, apparently all she wants is to unleash her creativity as a painter, but it soon becomes clear that's not the only item in her subconscious and very unstable agenda. She begins having trouble with villagers and visitors alike. In fact, she is not liked at all. Then she is found dead.

The shocking news spread quickly, for how can such a horrible incident occur in such a picturesque little village? Is it suicide...or murder? That is for Constable Macbeth to find out. Unfortunately for him, the suspects are as devious, unexpected and peculiar as Lochdubh itself. Fortunately for you, the list of suspects is long enough to keep you guessing until the end.

There is a charming--and even childlike--simplicity in the author's writing style that adds to the folksy flavour of the setting, plot and protagonist. Beaton uses mostly dialogue to move the story and doesn't waste time with needless descriptions or character ruminations, which slows the pace.

Constable Hamish Macbeth, with his fiery red hair, reputation with the ladies, and love for his two eccentric pets, is an original and adorable protagonist. His is an unusual combination of unpretentious charm, naivete, a hot temperament, and genial deduction.

Death of a Dreamer is perfect to cuddle up with on those cold rainy days in front of a roaring fireplace, or in any place, for that matter.

Armchair Interviews says: A thoroughly enjoyable cozy mystery.