Julia Bird returns in the latest cosy mystery from Katie Gayle – the 7th in the series. A retired social worker, Julia has made herself at home in the little Cotswold village of Berrywick, getting herself involved in local groups.
The local amateur dramatic group are putting a on play in the local hall. What should be a fun event for the village community turns to horror when the lead actor is shot for real on stage, after someone has seemingly tampered with the prop gun.
Being in charge of props, Julia finds herself under suspicion and fights to clear her name. The big question is why anyone would want the lead actor Graham dead. Is the answer in his private life, or is the play the key to the death? Can Julia solve the case before more tragedy strikes?
It’s fun to see the different personalities in the community, particularly in the amateur dramatic group, led by police Superintendent Roger Grave, showing off a different side to his personality.
Julia is such a lovely, sweet and unassuming character, she’s easy to root for, and she wants the best for everyone, and is easy to root for. She finds her new relationship with local doctor Sean O’Connor tested when he has to dash to London to pick up his grown son who has found himself in trouble.
I do enjoy the Julia Bird series, they’re wonderful feel-good cosy mysteries, and this addition is no exception. Gentle but fast paced, it’s easy to get sucked in and lose an afternoon to following Julia’s adventures.
A Village Theatre Murder is out today.
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