The absorbing seventh novel in Ann Granger's captivating Mitchell and Markby mystery series

When Jimmy is found murdered, Agatha and James are the prime suspects. Since the easiest way to clear their names is to find the real murderer, Agatha convinces James to help her investigate. But will their subsequent close proximity - which has them, ironically, pretending to be man and wife - be enough to win James second time around?

Agatha is taken aback when she finds a new woman ensconced in the affections of her attractive bachelor neighbour. Mary Forunte is superior in every way. So when Mary is discovered murdered, buried upside down in a plant pot, Agatha starts yanking up village secrets, but is this wise? Agatha has an awkward secret too.

Meet Agatha Raisin, high-flying public relations boss turned village sleuth. After her many years of bullying and cajoling others, her early retirement to a picture-perfect village in the Costwolds is a dream come true.

Agatha Raisin believes the village vet has taken a shine to her, but before romance can bloom, he accidentally kills himself. Oh well, there is still her neighbour, and perhaps a common interest like a murder investigation will bring them together.

After six months spent in London, Agatha Raisin returns to her beloved Cotswold village of Carsely - and to her attractive neighbour, James Lacey. True, James is less than thrilled to see her, but Agatha is soon consoled by a sensational murder.