The Body in the Transept by Jeanne M. Dams

The Body in the Transept
by Jeanne M. Dams

After seeing Jeanne M. Dams’ novels in the library collection for many years, I finally had the opportunity to read one when the library’s Just Desserts mystery book group discussed her at its July meeting. I read the ebook edition of The Body in the Transept, the first (of 18, so far) in her “Dorothy Martin” series, featuruing a retired American woman who has moved to a small English village for her retirement. In this first volume, recently-widowed Dorothy is still settling into Sheresbury, and adjusting to life as a single senior — she and her late husband had planned their retirement to England after spending time there several years earlier, and despite his passing, she decided to follow through with their plans. Dorothy’s first Christmas in her new village turns dark, when she stumbles upon the body of one of her church’s priests. Despite enjoying the attentions of an older police inspector, Dorothy still feels compelled to snoop into the investigation into the priest’s death, because of her connection to the case — an action that could turn deadly, as the guilty party isn’t above more violence to cover their actions.

While the plot of this traditional “cozy” was fairly simple and predictable, I enjoyed the characters, particularly Dorothy herself. And I look forward to reading further volumes in the series, as she later becomes even more involved with her constable friend Alan Nesbitt (eventually marrying), but keeps stumbling across more murders that require her attention.

[If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try the Murder She Wrote series of novels, featuring Jessica Fletcher (based on the popular television series) — released under the “Fletcher” pseudonym but actually written by Donald Bain.]

[ official Dorthy Martin Series page on the official Jeanne M. Dams web site ]

Recommended by Scott C.
Bennett Martin Public Library

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