I've enjoyed Keating's books for decades and it's really nice to see these classic stories being re-released for a new audience. This is a very gentle book with a slow pace and meandering but intelligent main character. I have read other reviewers saying that Inspector Ghote's investigations will appeal to fans of Alexander McCall Smith and lovers of the old Columbo TV series and I can definitely see the similarities, but I think, respectfully, that H.R.F. Keating brings a unique pacing and sensibility to the cozy mystery. The inspector is very much inside his own head for much of the narrative and his internal monologues are whimsical and occasionally enlightening.
The setting (Bombay) provides atmosphere and exotic interest. This book explores the schisms between the classes/castes in India and is quite melancholy in places showing, as it does, the difference in importance and value placed on the lives of the poor vs. the wealthy. This would be a perfect read for a gentle train ride or cabin weekend.
Four stars. I am so pleased to see Severn House taking these up and re-releasing them.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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