Mary C. reviewed on 3/16/2010 + 41 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

It finally happened--Kate and Charles are married. Does that mean that their lives are going to settle down? Of course it doesn't. There will be a death to investigate with this one concerning cars and a hot air balloon. Charles and Kate's friend, Sir Bradford Marsden, has a wonderful plan to have a car race involving each of the current engine styles. Unfortunately, Bradford's father forbids the race at the home estate, so Bradford convinces Charles and Kate to host the event. What should be a simple exhibition becomes complicated. The inventors don't get along at all; the local basket-maker is trying to learn to fly on a broom (yes, it is intricate to the story!); and Charles has installed a gas cooker of which Mrs. Pratt, the cook, is terrified, plus other twists and turns. A murder just seems to fit into the turmoil.

The introduction of real characters in each of these books is always interesting. This one is no different. Since the story centers around automobiles, it stands to reason that Charles Rolls and Henry Royce are part of the group. The fervent feelings about the different type of engines is fun to read especially when the common consensus is that a combustible engine will never be practical.

Beryl will get the inspiration for another book by the end of this one!

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