Tuesday 17 January 2023

πŸ“– Book Review ~ Stardust in Nuala by Harriet Steel





November 2022

The Inspector de Silva Mysteries #12

My thanks to the author for my copy of this book


A celebrated Indian film company comes to Nuala, sprinkling its stardust over the quiet little town and keeping Inspector de Silva busy. With the end of the visit at last in sight, he looks forward to returning to a more peaceful existence, but a sudden death dashes his hopes. With Jane’s help and that of a new ally, he’s drawn into the turbulent affairs of a warring family. Meanwhile, a mysterious intruder is causing trouble at the Residence.


πŸ“– My Review

There is great excitement in Nuala when an Indian film crew descends upon the town and of course, it falls upon Inspector de Silva to keep everything under control. However, even as the film crew are packing up to leave Nuala, the inspector is informed that there has been an unexpected death in the hotel where the main members of the cast have been staying. This mysterious death of one of the main actors opens up a whole set of mysterious circumstances and places several other members of the cast under suspicion. As always, this careful detective leaves no stone unturned, or wall unclimbed, in his quest to get to the bottom of this complex crime.

It's always a huge pleasure to return to Nuala and spend time in the company of de Silva and his lovely wife Jane as they quietly go about their lives in this beautiful part of what was once Ceylon. Set in 1941, the colonial atmosphere still persists although with the war raging in Europe there is definitely a hint of change in the air. The place and its people come alive especially with all the colourful sights, sounds and tastes which this author describes so thoughtfully. The mystery at the heart of this gentle crime story is beautifully explored and everything comes together in a satisfactory conclusion which I felt was entirely appropriate.

Whilst this is the twelfth novel in this cosy crime series it is perfectly possible to read as a standalone mystery although for greater enjoyment and to get to know the Inspector it is better to read the series from the beginning that way you get to spend time in this pretty little hill town with de Silva, his wife Jane, and their two cats Billy and Bella.








Harriet Steel wrote four historical novels before turning to crime with the Inspector de Silva mysteries, inspired by time spent in Sri Lanka (the former Ceylon)). Her work has also appeared in national newspapers and magazines. Visit her blog to sign up to her monthly newsletter for news of new releases and great offers, Blog 

Harriet is married with two daughters and lives in Surrey. When Harriet is not writing, she likes reading, long walks and visiting art galleries and museums.


Twitter @harrietsteel1








 

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