The Critic

Peter May
Poisoned Pen Press (2007)
ISBN 9781590584583
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (8/07)


Enzo Macleod is off and running in the investigation of a murdered wine critic.  His body was actually found four years ago hanging on a cross in a vineyard in France.  Apparently, prior to being crucified, his body had spent about a year marinating in a vat of red wine.  Enzo uses his knowledge of forensics to help crack this case.  He also is in contact with the deceased man’s daughter, who happens to be attracted to older men, such as Enzo.  While this case is being investigated, more killings occur.

Enzo discovers a link between crimes that happened two-hundred years ago and now.  He also needs to find out why the wine critic was wearing ceremonial garb of the Brotherhood of the Order of the Divine Bottle.  As he gets further involved, he discovers that his own life is in danger.  He is determined to solve this case before another murder occurs.  Narrowing down the list of suspects is difficult; Enzo even suspects the critic’s daughter.  He also is dealing with his own personal issues revolving around a psychologist, his daughter, and his assistant.

Peter May has written an excellent novel with “The Critic.”  He manages to successfully incorporate mystery, suspense, humor and a little romance into one great plot.  He describes the wine-making process in great detail, as part of understanding the aspects of the mystery.  He does this in a way that is very interesting and adds to the story.  While I enjoyed this mystery, I appreciated being educated on this.

I recommend “The Critic” to both male and female mystery fans.  Wine lovers will really enjoy this.  I look forward to reading the first book in Enzo’s series and for future mysteries to follow.  Readers’ groups will love this one!

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