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I just finished Martha Grimes' latest "The Black Cat" - very well written, and her plot lines continue to intrigue. And it contains the return of the loveable (?) psychopath Harry Johnson.
Grimes has expanded Jury's investigations beyond the original small village setting into more cosmopolitan areas - but at the loss of a fascinating & intriguing cast of local eccentrics. Of all the "regulars" only Melrose Plant made an appearance - without his supremely irritating Aunt Agatha. I guess this widening of scope (much like what occurred in Murder She Wrote) increases the appeal of this series beyond readers of "cozies" but I really miss the entertaining and oft times acerbic banter amongst the regulars located in Long Piddleton!
Some new cat characters added (along with the return of Mungo the thinking dog) - but no appearance by Cyril.
The only consistent plot point with the earlier titles is the inclusion of a female child character wise beyond her years who helps solve the case.
A very good read, buy my nostalgia for lost characters keeps it from being a great read.
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