The Queen of Poisons marks the triumphant third installment in Robert Thorogood’s delightful Marlow Murder Club series, following the acclaimed The Marlow Murder Club and Death Comes to Marlow. In this latest mystery, Thorogood once again brings his signature blend of charm, wit, and intricate plotting to the picturesque Thames-side town of Marlow.
The Story
When Geoffrey Lushington, the beloved Mayor of Marlow, suddenly collapses during a routine planning committee meeting, it seems like a tragic accident. However, the discovery of aconite – the infamous “queen of poisons” – in his coffee cup transforms a quiet evening into a murder investigation. This time, the police actively seek the help of our favorite amateur sleuths – Judith Potts, the eccentric crossword setter; Suzie Harris, the enterprising dog walker; and Becks Starling, the vicar’s considerate wife – right from the start.
Character Development and Dynamics
One of the greatest strengths of The Queen of Poisons lies in its character development. The three leading ladies have evolved naturally since their first appearance, while maintaining their distinct personalities that readers have come to love. Judith remains gloriously unconventional, swimming naked in the Thames and solving crosswords with the same enthusiasm. Suzie continues to hustle with her various enterprises, including a new radio show, while Becks struggles with her mother-in-law’s unwelcome extended stay.
The supporting cast is equally well-drawn. From Marcus Percival, the smooth-talking estate agent with a dark secret, to Sophia De Castro, the wellness podcaster with a hidden obsession, each character feels authentic and three-dimensional. The victim himself, Geoffrey Lushington, emerges as a complex figure whose genuine kindness makes his murder all the more tragic.
Plot and Pacing
The mystery unfolds at a measured pace, with Thorogood expertly laying out clues and red herrings. The author demonstrates his skill in crafting a complex puzzle that keeps readers guessing until the final revelation. The investigation weaves together multiple threads – embezzled council funds, anonymous letters, secret affairs, and a mysterious blonde-haired man – into a satisfying tapestry of deception and murder.
Writing Style and Atmosphere
Thorogood’s prose is engaging and accessible, peppered with moments of genuine humor that lighten the darker aspects of the story. His description of Marlow creates a vivid sense of place, from the bustling High Street to the peaceful riverbank. The author’s background as creator of the TV series “Death in Paradise” shows in his ability to balance comedy with mystery without undermining the gravity of the crime.
Strengths
Outstanding Elements
- Well-crafted mystery with numerous plausible suspects
- Strong character development and relationships
- Engaging blend of humor and suspense
- Rich local atmosphere
- Satisfying resolution that ties together all plot threads
Areas for Improvement
Points to Consider
- Some readers might find the pacing in the middle section slightly slow
- A few plot points rely heavily on coincidence
- The technical details of the poison delivery method may stretch credibility
- Secondary character motivations could be more fully explored
Series Context
The Queen of Poisons builds effectively on its predecessors while standing confidently on its own. New readers can jump in here, though they’ll miss some character development from The Marlow Murder Club and Death Comes to Marlow. The fourth book, Murder on the Marlow Belle, promises to continue the series’ strong trajectory.
Similar Works
Fans of traditional British mysteries will find much to enjoy here. The series sits comfortably alongside Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club books and M.C. Beaton’s Agatha Raisin series, offering a similar blend of cozy mystery and contemporary wit.
Final Verdict
The Queen of Poisons is a worthy addition to the Marlow Murder Club series, delivering an engaging mystery that will satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers. While not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its minor flaws.
For Readers Who…
- Enjoy traditional British mysteries with modern sensibilities
- Appreciate strong female characters of varying ages
- Love detailed small-town settings
- Relish complex puzzles with multiple suspects
Not Recommended For…
- Readers seeking gritty realism or procedural details
- Those who prefer fast-paced thrillers
- People who dislike amateur detective stories
Impact and Legacy
The Marlow Murder Club series has carved out its own niche in the crowded British mystery market, offering a fresh take on the genre while respecting its traditions. The Queen of Poisons further cements its position as a must-read for fans of contemporary cozy mysteries.
Conclusion
With The Queen of Poisons, Robert Thorogood continues to demonstrate why he’s become a respected voice in modern mystery writing. The book successfully combines the charm of a cozy mystery with enough complexity to keep readers engaged throughout. While there’s room for minor improvements, the overall quality of the storytelling, character development, and mystery crafting makes this a highly recommended read for fans of the genre.