Death of a Macho Man

In his latest appearance (after Death of a Nag), the unconventional Hamish MacBeth, the lanky, red-haired constable in the tiny Scottish Highlands town of Lochdubh, finds that his own impetuousness places him at the center of a murder investigation. Randy Duggan, recently arrived in the village, impresses fellow pubgoers with his size and tales of wrestling in America, but soon his blustery tune grows tiresome and the locals become restive at not being able to get a word in edgewise at their own pub. When the abrasive newcomer challenges the constable to a fight, Hamish is shocked to hear himself agree. By the appointed time, spirits are high-children are up late, bets have been placed, even the minister and his wife are in attendance. But Duggan, a no-show, is found murdered in his rented cabin. Hamish's nemesis on the force, Detective Chief Inspector Blair, can barely contain his glee as he names the policeman as prime suspect. Being taken off the case limits Hamish's investigative tools, but he still manages to question jealous husbands, a sour mystery writer and an upstanding spinster before this complex tale with roots in the past is resolved. Meanwhile, Hamish and his haughty sometime-fiancee, Priscilla Halburton-Smythe, continue to work out their complicated relationship. Befuddled, earnest and utterly endearing, Hamish makes his triumphs sweetly satisfying. Mystery Guild featured alternate selection. (June)