Belle Ruin by Martha Grimes (2005, Unabridged, Compact Disc)

This is the third novel in a new series by Martha Grimes, best known for her Richard Jury detective series novels. Fans of the series should enjoy Grimes's stories of 12 year old Emma, who waitresses at her mother's hotel when she's not out solving previously unsolved mysteries. Grimes' characters and background are as usual, vivid, humourous, colorful, and completely absorbing. I suggest reading the two novels written prior to this installment (although it's by no means necessary; new fans should enjoy this regardless) which include Hotel Paradise and Cold Flat Junction. These are worthy of a spot in any library to be enjoyed over and over. I hope more will be forthcoming in the series, even if it means waiting for a new Richard Jury novel a big longer.

Am longtime fan of Grimes and she did not disappoint in this selection. Ms. Grimes has a unique take on her younger characters in this and my favorite Inspector Jury novels. The ending in "Belle" was a little fuzzy which leads me to believe there is more to come in this series.