Thanks to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for this free digital copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is available now!
Skelton’s Guide to Suitcase Murders is the second in David Stafford’s Skelton series and as always, it is hard to discuss the sequels in a series! It’s 1929 in England and barrister Arthur Skelton is back and once again is asked to defend someone who seems guilty in every way. A body has been found in a suitcase and Skelton, thanks to his instincts and some larvae discovered in the suitcase, is soon convinced that all is not what it seems.
I absolutely enjoyed this book and truly, I thought it was better than the first. In the first, it took me a bit to warm to the characters, but reading this book felt like returning to a comfortable place. The banter is GREAT. It is understated and could be easily dismissed…except it is so witty and entertaining. The characters have really come into their own and I do hope there are more books! I liked them all, but particularly enjoy Edgar and Alan. I’ve been diving into a lot of historical mysteries lately and I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of entomological evidence in this story. As far as the mystery goes, it was interesting and twisty without being too far-fetched. I don’t want to give too much away, but there are also some moments of emotional depth that help to ground this story.
I will say, I finally had to look up the difference between a barrister and a solicitor! I let myself remain confused while I read the first book but I could not continue in ignorance for this one! 🙂 Based on my not-so-extensive Google research, a solicitor primarily deals with the public, advises clients, can draft legal documents…etc. A barrister can take on and receives details of a case from a solicitor and wears the wig and robe and can argue the case in court. I’m sure there are many more specific details, but I think that’s the gist! If you know more about this than me, please share your info! 🙂
If you are feeling like a cozy British mystery filled with witty banter and a clever plot, this is for you! As usual, I will always advise to read series books in order. The first book is called Skelton’s Guide to Domestic Poisons. You can read my review of that book here.
The Bookish Bird 