The Embroidered Corpse: Book 2 of Belinda Lawrence Mystery Series

Reviewed by Christine I Speakman

Written by Brian Kavanagh

Published: 2006 BeWrite Books www.bewrite.net

Genre: Mystery

ISBN: 1-905202-36-9

Pages: 196

Price: 6.99(UK pounds) $12.50 (USA) $14.50 (Canadian) 10.50 (Europe)

4 out of 4 roses

Belinda is back and it’s still murder, but at who’s cost this time.

I’m caught between reviews here.  I started “The Embroidered Corpse” immediately after writing my review of Belinda’s first mystery “Capable of Murder” which is the best way to read any series…no waiting period between tales.  However, I can’t tell you who joins Belinda this time around without giving away clues to “Capable of Murder.”

What I will tell you is some characters do survive book one to “The Embroidered Corpse” and they, together with Belinda, are a delicious mix of uniquely diverse individuals.  And, once more, Mr. Kavanagh murders with surprising twists of victims.

Belinda and company are caught in the history of a mediaeval English King and the tapestry that may or may not solve an ancient mystery.  How Belinda finds herself in these mixes is truly a giggle.  I, sometimes, feel as if I’ve discovered a grown up version of the Enid Blyton series “The Famous Five.”  And, I do hope Mr. Kavanagh takes this as the compliment it’s meant…I searched all of Scotland for her books after foolishly giving them away as a teen. 

What is it that has me matching these two authors?  It is how they incorporate the landscape and buildings around the characters almost as separate characters.  Both add dimension and pacing to the story telling.  They add a flavour to each scene’s mood.

Another aspect of Mr. Kavanagh’s writing is the historical knowledge he peppers throughout the story.  Never does this information dampen the telling, it only enhances the thrill of the solving. 

Currently, I am reading Belinda’s third adventure (“Bloody Ham”) and, once again, I’m lost in Mr. Kavanagh’s world.

Thank you, Mr. Kavanagh.

INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN KAVANAGH