The Curse of La Fontaine: A Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery

In Longworth’s beguiling, leisurely paced sixth mystery featuring magistrate Antoine Verlaque and law professor Marine Bonnet (after 2015’s The Mystery of the Lost Cezanne), Bear Valets, the chef at a popular restaurant in the newlywed couple’s neighborhood in Aix-en-Provence, France, wants to expand into a historic courtyard—but finds himself running up against some powerful neighbors who are outraged at the idea of diners in their communal space. Valets barrels ahead with his plan, but while digging near the courtyard’s ancient fountain, he uncovers the skeleton of a murder victim and triggers what locals believe is a centuries-old curse. Bonnet goes undercover into a royalist group to learn about their possible connection to the murder, while Verlaque investigates the victim’s family—and the threats now being delivered to Valets. Longworth evokes the pleasures of France in delicious detail—great wine, delicious meals, and fine company. Agent: Katherine Fausset, Curtis Brown. (Apr.)