Wicked Autumn: A Max Tudor Novel

This appealing first in a new cozy series from Agatha-winner Malliet (Death at the Alma Mater) introduces Max Tudor, ex-MI5 officer turned Anglican priest at St. Edwold’s in the village of Nether Monkslip. Since Wanda Batton-Smythe has made herself the most hated individual in town with her officious manner and harsh treatment of volunteers working on the annual Harvest Fayre, no one’s too surprised when her body turns up one day in the village hall. Wanda appears to have died of a severe allergic reaction, possibly by accident, but the calm, unemotional Max is certain it’s a case of “malice aforethought.” Guided by the MI5 premise that “everyone is a suspect,” Max interviews one and all around Nether Monkslip, from a harried chef to a frightened young acolyte who faints during Wanda’s funeral. The action builds to a tense confrontation at St. Edwold’s. Readers will look forward to seeing more of the Rev. Tudor. (Oct.)