Death of a Kingfisher

Hamish Macbeth is back on the beat in remote Lochdubh, Scotland in Death of a Kingfisher (#255), M.C. Beaton's latest entry in this cozy police constable series.  Hamish can't seem to find the right woman, but he's no longer alone in the police cottage.   He's gained a new constable, Dick Fraser, a widower waiting out his retirement years and happy to be doing it in such a dull backwater where nothing ever seems to happen.

That is, until the neighboring village of Craikie begins to successfully market a local beauty spot, which Mary Leinster, the council's environmental officer, is doing with great aplomb.  Not everyone is happy about "The Fairy Glen" as it's been dubbed in the tourist brochures.  Mrs. Colchester, a rich widow who bought the property that used to include The Fairy Glen, isn't happy that it's been carved out by the previous owner and left to the town.  When Mary Leinster reports the malicious death of the kingfisher at the pool in the Fairy Glen, a nasty crime spree including a spectacular murder ensues.  There are just too many suspects in the Glen, but is Hamish in danger of losing his heart or his patience before he can solve the mystery?

Both of Hamish's former love interests make appearances in this latest mystery, as well as his wild cat Sonsie and faithful dog Lugs.  Beaton also introduces Dick Fraser, who although he is lazy and always hungry, is also a fount of local gossip and useful company for Hamish when he allows himself to enjoy it.  Detective Chief Inspector Blair is up to his old tricks in Death of a Kingfisher, doing his best to sabotage Hamish's efforts.  Things never seem to stay settled in Lochdubh for long, and that's a great thing for fans of this series!