An atmospheric French getaway, complete with exquisite wine, gourmet food, and murder. So much for a peaceful honeymoon!
Can't people even honeymoon in peace? Apparently not if you're Commissaire Georges Dupin. One minute you're enjoying the beautiful French countryside, sampling exquisite Muscadet, and indulging in gourmet meals with your new bride. The next, you're investigating a murder. So much for romance.
In The Winemaker's End by Jean-Luc Bannalec, Georges and his wife, Claire, are honeymooning in French wine country when they visit Claire's friend, Cécile. Unfortunately, Cécile's ex-husband, Brian, a talented winemaker, has been murdered. Between a fierce winery rivalry, a possible discovery of rare wines, and some questionable relationships, there are plenty of suspects. When another body turns up, the investigation becomes even more complicated. Are the murders connected, or is something else going on?
First, let's talk about the writing. It was exquisite. Bannalec transported me straight into the French countryside. I could practically see the vineyards, smell the food, and taste the wine. Had it not been for the inconvenient matter of murder, I'd have been ready to pack my bags.
Georges was a thoroughly likable detective. He genuinely tried to remain in honeymoon mode, but curiosity and unanswered questions eventually got the better of him. His investigation unfolded logically and believably, without improbable heroics or ridiculous decisions.
Claire was fiercely loyal to Cécile, even when I began to wonder whether her friend might be hiding something. I admired that loyalty, although I questioned Claire's honeymoon priorities. Personally, if someone offered me gorgeous French scenery, exceptional Muscadet, and gourmet meals, I wouldn't be volunteering to investigate a homicide. You'd have to drag me away, possibly with a court order. Friendship is wonderful, but so is a nice glass of wine.
The pacing was perfect for the atmosphere. The descriptions occasionally slowed things down, but that was part of the charm. This isn't a heart-pounding thriller designed to keep you awake until three in the morning. It's a cozy mystery meant to be savored, much like the wines featured throughout.
The mystery itself was wonderfully satisfying. I had my suspicions, and more than one turned out to be spectacularly wrong. Bannalec kept me guessing without ridiculous twists or unbelievable revelations. The solution surprised me, but everything made sense. Human nature, particularly jealousy, can be a dangerous thing.
I also appreciated the absence of graphic violence and unnecessary steamy scenes. Yes, there are murders, but that's rather like ordering a cheeseburger and being warned it contains beef. When you pick up a mystery, you know what you're getting into!
This was my first Bannalec novel, and I didn't even realize I was jumping into an established series. I had no trouble enjoying it as a standalone. Readers who love Agatha Christie's Miss Marple mysteries, traditional whodunits, charming settings, and thoughtful detective work should feel right at home. I experienced those same wonderful Miss Marple vibes throughout.
Five stars. The Winemaker's End didn't keep me awake all night, but it didn't need to. Bannalec delivered a beautifully written, atmospheric, believable mystery that was an absolute pleasure to read. Sometimes a great book isn't one that makes your heart race. Sometimes it's one that makes you wish you could stay a little longer.
Preferably with another glass of Muscadet.
Content warning: Murder and death, without graphic descriptions of violence.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for the complimentary advance reader copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
