From Publishers Weekly

In this highly promising launch to a new mystery series, Beaton turns from the adventures of her Scottish policeman Hamish Macbeth to introduce the redoubtable Agatha Raisin. At 53, Agatha, whose personality is a piquant combination of brusque competence and fallibility, sells her London public relations firm to retire to the picturesque Cotswold village of Carsely. Determined to gain acceptance among the villagers, the undomestic Agatha enters a local bake-off. The judge, Reg Cummings-Brown, not only snubs her entry but later dies, poisoned by cowbane in Agatha's killer quiche. Of course Agatha is innocent: her "homemade" entry came from a Chelsea delicatessen. Knowing news of her cheating will light up the village, Agatha hopes to save face by proving Reg was murdered, even though the police think it was all a ghastly accident. But was Reg or Agatha the target? And why would anyone want to kill the popular Reg, whose wife was only one of "quite a lot of ladies . . . sobbing into their handkerchiefs" at the inquest? While the murder is occasionally overshadowed by Agatha's settling-in problems, Beaton's ( Death of a Snob ) playful depiction of village life makes it all a delicious romp.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

"In 'Agatha,' Beaton has blended perfectly the classic ingredients of a village with secrets and stock characters. The irascible but endearing personality of Agatha Raisin is like a heady dash of curry. May we have another serving, please."--Detroit Free Press*

"A hilarious up-to-the-minute murder romp that's as delicious as a Christmas pudding."
--St. Petersburg Times*

"Beaton's playful depiction of village life makes it all a delicious romp."--Publishers Weekly

"The strong narrative drive comes from Agatha's changing personality as awkward and perilous situations shape her into a softer, more admirable person."--*Chicago Sun-Times*

"Beaton has thus launched a new series featuring an eccentric sleuth with human foibles galore, combined with an indomitable spirit, who will long persevere and endear herself to the village (and the reader).--San Antonio Express-News

"Beaton, always deft with imperfect human beings, guides Agatha through her travails until she becomes almost likeable. You will want to see her again."--*Houston Post*