Murder on the Marlow Belle, by Robert Thorogood

Septuagenarian sleuth Judith Potts and her two middle-aged sidekicks Suzie Harris and Becks Starling find themselves drawn into another Marlow murder mystery in the fourth installment of this much loved cozy crime series.

There is trouble brewing at the Marlow Amateur Dramatic Society (MADS). Oliver Berestford, a divisive figure among the players, has organised a boat trip on the Marlow Belle, a snazzy vintage cruiser with cabins below. Only a select few have been chosen to attend the trip: Verity, Oliver’s wife, Lizzie, a former MADS member but now famous actress, Toby, a protege and Duncan, an old friend. When half way through the trip Oliver goes missing, it’s a complete mystery as to what has happened. His body is later found washed up with two bullet holes. What on earth could have happened to him? More to the point, who was out to get him?

The fourth book in The Marlow Murder Club series is great page-turning fun. Robert Thorogood’s ability to write a compelling whodunnit, shot through with wit, humour and heart, shows no sign of flagging. The twists and turns in the story, coupled with the wonderful characters - the pushy Judith, the blunt and outspoken dog walker Suzie and the prim and proper vicar’s wife Becks - make for a brilliant entertainment. The final set piece - with the ultimate crime reveal happening in the middle of a production of The Importance of Being Earnest - is clever and just a bit mad. Admittedly some aspects of the story stretch credulity, yet the overall journey is so enjoyable that these minor quibbles can be overlooked.

An irresistible romp with an endearing cast of characters.

Murder on the Marlow Belle, by Robert Thorogood. Published by HQ Fiction. $32.99

June 2025