A Trace of Poison: A Riveting Historical Mystery Set in the Home of Agatha Christie -- Colleen Cambridge - Hardcover

Phyllida Bright, housekeeper to the grand dame of murder mysteries, Agatha Christie, must uncover the killer among a throng of crime writers in this sparkling new historical mystery from acclaimed writer Colleen Cambridge.

In England's stately manor houses, murder is not generally a topic for polite conversation. Mallowan Hall, home to Agatha Christie and her husband, Max, is the exception. And housekeeper Phyllida Bright delights in discussing gory plot details with her friend and employer . . .

The neighboring village of Listleigh has also become a hub of grisly goings-on, thanks to a Murder Fête organized to benefit a local orphanage. Members of The Detection Club--a group of celebrated authors such as G.K. Chesterton, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Agatha herself--will congregate for charitable events, including a writing contest for aspiring authors. The winner gets an international publishing contract, and entrants have gathered for a cocktail party--managed by the inimitable Phyllida--when murder strikes too close even for her comfort.

It seems the victim imbibed a poisoned cocktail intended for Alastair Whittlesby, president of the local writers' club. The insufferable Whittlesby is thought to be a shoo-in for the prize, and ambition is certainly a worthy motive. But narrowing down these suspects could leave even Phyllida's favorite fictional detective, M. Poirot, twirling his mustache in frustration.

It's a mystery too intriguing for Phyllida to resist, but one fraught with duplicity and danger, for every guest is an expert in murder--and how to get away with it . . .


Author: Colleen Cambridge
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation
Published: 10/25/2022
Pages: 272
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 9.10h x 6.10w x 1.20d
ISBN: 9781496732477

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 09/01/2022
Publishers Weekly 09/05/2022
Library Journal 09/01/2022 pg. 117