Mystery Fiction by the Sea by PMA Hayes

‘For Murder Press 3’ by P.M.A. Hayes

Published by Cranthorpe Millner,
13 December 2022.
ISBN: 978-180378063-4 (PB)

Benedict Aberthorp is a private investigator based in Seagrove on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Aberthorp makes an interesting detective, and not just for his trademark dark-rimmed glasses. He regards himself as a “truth-gatherer” and approaches each case without emotion, searching for the seam of veracity within every investigation. Whether he is looking for a missing person or seeking evidence of marital infidelity his approach is simple, unwavering, and effective.

The detective has just solved an enquiry and is looking forward to some well-earned time off. Then, he receives a phone call from Aldo Sherwin who declares himself, “scared to hell they’ll arrest me for my wife’s murder.” The wife in question is Francine Roydon, a well-known antiques dealer. It transpires that the couple had lived apart for some time but met for lunch together each month. Unfortunately for Aldo, their last meeting coincided with his estranged wife’s murder. This is not the only reason why Seagrove Police’s Detective Finnegan, who is leading the murder hunt, suspects him. Benedict encourages Aldo to be frank and open about his relationship with the dead woman to build up a picture of what occurred that fateful day.

It soon becomes clear, however, that Mr Sherwin is not telling the whole truth – and he’s not alone. As Aberthorp begins to track down and interview Francine’s circle of friends, his probing questions are met with silence or avoidance. Before long, the investigation has spawned a veritable smorgasbord of potential killers. The list of characters who enjoyed, or didn’t enjoy, relationships with Francine, Aldo, and each other, are at best complicated and at worst positively incestuous! Power games and disfunction drive the personalities of those whom Benedict and his erstwhile assistant, Gail Hollingford, encounter during the investigation. Benedict’s first murder enquiry presents him with a puzzle that will prove to be both infuriating and intriguing.

For Murder Press 3 is the first in the Benedict Aberthorp Mystery series and the author has created a tantalising whodunnit that bamboozled me at every turn. The focus shifts between Benedict and Gail, and the characters who are under suspicion. What people say when they are questioned is thrown into doubt when the focus shifts to their unscrutinised conversations and behaviour. Indeed, the reader frequently has more information than that afforded to Benedict and Gail. This becomes apparent when the narrative reports the conversations between the delightful detecting duo. I found the novel immersive and entertaining, and I look forward to meeting Benedict again when he tackles his next case, hopefully with wing-woman Gail alongside. Highly enjoyable.
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Reviewer: Dot Marshall-Gent

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