British author Milton (Nathaniel's Nutmeg
and five other nonfiction books) makes an impressive fiction debut with this comic thriller set in 1969. Edward Trencom, the owner and operator of London's pre-eminent cheese emporium, holds the title Life President of the Most Worshipful Company of Cheese Connoisseurs. During a tour group's visit to his shop, a mysterious Greek gentleman accosts Edward and prompts him to explore his family history. To his dismay, Edward discovers that many of his ancestors met violent and suspicious ends, including one who died of poisoning alongside Lord Byron. Edward finds that all the deaths were somehow connected with covert plots against whoever was ruling Greece at the time. The international intrigue is a little thin, but Milton's amusing depiction of the world of cheese fanciers and their quirky personalities should delight even those who aren't fond of dairy products. (Apr.)
