Death Comes to Durham

This is a gentle, reliable mystery series now in its 23rd installment! It's hard to believe that the lovable, elderly investigative couple, ex-pat American and retired school teacher Dorothy Martin and her husband, British retired police commander Alan Nesbitt., have managed to solve so many mysteries! Fans have thoroughly enjoyed these "happy mysteries," each with its own tone and setting. In recent years, however, Dams manages to insert serious social issues into each book with a light and thoughtful touch, while mantaining the always warm and sweet relationship between the characters. I especially enjoy Dams' settings around Church of England services and its spectacular cathedrals, along with the quiet faith of both Dorothy and Alan. Dams is always meticulous in her research and wonderfully evocative in her descriptions. With each book, the reader can easily visualize the setting. The descriptions of the constant meals and snacks are a delightful feature of the series.

In this new story, the couple is visiting Durham, England, and staying in historic college facilities there. A friend of Alan's, a recently retired police officer, has invited them. Of course, a problem shows up almost immediately, and eventually a body or two. Here again, Dams brings in a serious social issue - that of dementia patients and their care. The plot entertains and has enough twists and turns to satisfy the reader. For any reader new to the series, each one can be a standalone, but it is most rewarding to work your way through all 23 of these! Enjoyable! A must-have reliable series for every public library.