"Crombies characters are rich, emotionally textured, fully human. They are the remarkable creations of a remarkable writer."Louise PennyNobody writes the modern English mystery the way Deborah Crombie doesand A Bitter Feast is the latest in a series that is gripping, enthralling, and just plain the best. Charles Todd, New York Times bestselling author of The Black Ascot and A Cruel DeceptionNew York Times bestselling author Deborah Crombie returns with a mesmerizing entry in her excellent (Miami Herald) series, in which Scotland Yard detectives Duncan Kincaid and Gemma James are pulled into a dangerous web of secrets, lies, and murder that simmers beneath the surface of a tranquil Cotswolds village. Scotland Yard Detective Superintendent Duncan Kincaid and his wife, Detective Inspector Gemma James, have been invited for a relaxing weekend in the Cotswolds, one of Britains most enchanting regions, famous for its rolling hills, golden cottages, and picturesque villages.Duncan, Gemma, and their children are guests at Beck House, the family estate of Melody Talbot, Gemmas detective sergeant. The Talbot family is wealthy, prominent, and powerfulMelodys father is the publisher of one of Londons largest and most influential newspapers. The centerpiece of this glorious fall getaway is a posh charity harvest luncheon catered by up-and-coming chef Viv Holland. After fifteen years in Londons cut-throat food scene, Viv has returned to the Gloucestershire valleys of her childhood and quickly made a name for herself with her innovative meals based on traditional cuisine but using fresh local ingredients. Attended by the local well-to-do as well as national pressfood bloggers and restaurant critics, the event could make Viv a star.But a tragic car accident and a series of mysterious deaths rock the estate and pull Duncan and Gemma into the investigation. It soon becomes clear that the killer has a connection with Vivs pubor, perhaps, with Beck House itself.Does the truth lie in the past? Or is it closer to home, tied up in the tangled relationships and bitter resentments between the staff at Beck House and Vivs new pub? Or is it more personal, entwined with secrets hidden by Viv and those closest to her?
