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 story development and denouement aren't in any way shocking or unexpected, and to be fair, I think they would have seemed a lot more unexpected during their original release period. He has been copied and there have been a lot of homages in the intervening 50+ years since it was written.
No violence, one murder, clean language, appealing and gently paced. 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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