Title: Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham
Author: M.C. Beaton
First published April 1, 1999
196 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780312970628 (ISBN10: 0312970625)
Rating: 3.75
Overview
Agatha Raisin is back and this time she’s in for a hair-raising experience! Everyone in the village thinks Mr. John is a wizard, but when Agatha discovers a few grey hairs on her head, she knows she must visit the charming Evesham hairdresser. However, what starts as a simple hair appointment turns into a murder investigation when Mr. John is found poisoned in his salon.
With her trusty detective skills, Agatha sets out to uncover the truth behind the hair-raising murder, all while navigating the complicated feelings she has for the handsome hairdresser. Will Agatha be able to solve the case and untangle her heart at the same time?
Find out in M.C. Beaton’s latest cozy mystery, Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham.
About the Author
Marion Chesney Gibbons, also known as Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, and Sarah Chester, was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1936. Her career began as a bookseller and later, she reviewed variety shows for the Scottish Daily Mail.
She then worked as a secretary in the advertising department of Scottish Field magazine and eventually became the fashion editor. Marion’s career progressed to reporting on crime for the Scottish Daily Express and then becoming the chief woman reporter for the Daily Express in Fleet Street.
She moved to the United States with her husband and worked as a waitress in a greasy spoon while her husband washed dishes. Later, they both got jobs at Rupert Murdoch’s new tabloid, The Star, and moved to New York.
In 1977, Marion began writing historical romances, inspired by her husband’s suggestion, to spend more time at home with their son. She wrote over 100 books under her maiden name, Marion Chesney, and various pseudonyms.
Eventually, she grew tired of writing about the same period and began writing detective stories under the pseudonym M.C. Beaton. The first Constable Hamish Macbeth story was inspired by a course at a fishing school while on holiday in Sutherland.
Marion and her family later moved to the Cotswolds where she created Agatha Raisin.
Editoral Review
M.C. Beatons Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham is a delightful addition to the cozy mystery genre. First published in April of 1999, this book is part of a series that features amateur detective Agatha Raisin.
Beaton has a talent for crafting light, witty mysteries that are perfect for curling up with on a lazy afternoon. The setting of the English countryside, complete with charming villages and quirky characters, adds to the cozy ambiance of the story.
In this particular installment, Agatha Raisin is on the hunt for a missing wizard who has seemingly vanished into thin air. As she questions witnesses and untangles clues, Agatha finds herself drawn into a web of deceit that threatens to unravel the quaint facade of village life.
Throughout the story, Beaton demonstrates a keen eye for character development. Agatha Raisin is a compelling protagonist, flawed and endearing in equal measure.
Her blunders and missteps are all the more charming when juxtaposed with her fierce determination. The supporting cast of characters is equally well-rounded, with each one contributing unique quirks and motivations to the investigation.
Beatons pacing is adept; the story moves at a comfortable clip, without ever feeling too rushed or too slow. One of the strengths of Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham is the way in which it explores the intricacies of village life.
Beaton is able to capture both the charm and the darkness of small-town living, showcasing the ways in which rumors and secrecy can influence peoples behavior. However, there are certainly weaknesses to be found in this book.
The mystery itself may be a bit predictable for those familiar with the genre. Additionally, some readers may find themselves frustrated with Agatha Raisins tendency to make decisions that put herself in danger.
Overall, Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham is a highly enjoyable read. Fans of cozy mysteries or of Beatons work in particular will find much to love in this book.
While it may not win over new fans or upend the genre, it is a solid addition to the cozy mystery canon. Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.
While the book is not without its flaws, it is sure to delight those looking for a charming and cozy mystery.
