Where has Mrs. Pargeter been all my life? I find it hard to believe that I have never before read this excellent series. There are so many elements that make it appealing, not the least of which are the business dealings of the late, devoted Mr. Pargeter. Was he a detective, a jeweler, a burglar, a social worker, or an international spy? Mr. Pargeter left his widow well-equipped with enough money, weaponry, tools, jewelry, and business contacts to last for the rest of her life and she makes good use of these when she decides that amateur detective work might be a occupation to keep her mind sharp. Soon after she moves into the Deveraux Hotel, a residential establishment in Littlehampton for the genteel elderly, Mrs. Pargeter is confronted with the "accidental" death of the quiet, gentle Mrs. Selsby. Which of the hotel residents, who range from fading movie star to aristocrats fallen on hard times, or staff might have had a hand in Mrs. Selsby's fall down the stairs? How many more accidents will occur before Miss Naismith, the proprietor, and the police begin to suspect foul play?
What I enjoyed most about Mrs. Pargeter was her level-headed elimination of suspects. She is intelligent, worldly, and sassy yet demure at the same time. She is also keenly observant and analytical and frequently calls to mind advice from the late, beloved Mr. Pargeter. I didn't figure out who did it until the very end. I can't wait to read the next book in his series!
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