Mrs Pargeter's Past

About the book

A gambler running away. A widow with ample money. Two criminal brothers with a hidden plan. The latest chapter of the unique and clever mystery series featuring Mrs Pargeter - the widow whose deceased husband was definitely not one of the most infamous criminals in Essex (absolutely not).

Those close to Mrs Pargeter are aware of two key facts regarding her marriage to her late spouse. Firstly, that it was incredibly happy. And secondly, that Mr Pargeter did not mix his professional life with his personal life. So, while the chances of her being questioned by law enforcement about his occupation are slim, Mrs Pargeter could truthfully claim that she is unaware.

She does know that Mr Pargeter's former colleagues are all upstanding citizens now, even if they may have had a shady past. When she discovers that Short Head Shimmings, her late husband's former accountant, is struggling, she steps in to help without hesitation.

Unfortunately, Short Head is in debt to dangerous individuals, the notorious Batinga Brothers, who are after more than just his money. To protect Short Head, Mrs Pargeter must dismantle the brothers' criminal enterprise. But how can she, a law-abiding woman armed only with her charm, wit, and her husband's contact book, achieve such a daunting task?

Experience a delightful combination of cosy mystery and crime adventure in this humorous, light-hearted, and quintessentially British novel by Simon Brett, recipient of the CWA Diamond Dagger award. Ideal for fans of Richard Osman, Janice Hallett, and M.C. Beaton.