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The Hen of the Baskervilles: A Meg Langslow Mystery    by Donna Andrews Amazon.com order for
Hen of the Baskervilles
by Donna Andrews
Order:  USA  Can
Minotaur, 2013 (2013)
Hardcover, CD, e-Book
* * *   Reviewed by Hilary Williamson

The Meg Lanslow mysteries make up one cozy series that I enjoy following. Regulars include Meg's husband Michael Waterston (associate drama professor at Caerphilly College), small twins Josh and Jamie, brother Rob, cousin Rose Noire, eccentric parents, choleric grandfather, and Police Chief Burke whose investigations inevitably snare Meg in.

This time, horrendous happenings center on the Virginia Un-Fair (the original state fair is unfortunately bankrupt). The Un-Fair focuses on 'Heritage animals and heirloom crops.' Mayor Randall Shiffley is in charge and Meg is his deputy director, i.e. she does almost all the work. Early one morning she's awakened to be informed that two Bantam Russian Orloff chickens have gone missing. Their owners (the Baskervilles, or was that the Bonnevilles?) are distraught. Who could have done this fowl deed?

Further vandalism ensues. Meg's friend Molly runs a goat cheese business, which is in financial difficulties after her husband Brett left her. He hooked up with hobby winemaker Genette Sedgewick, who is loathed by all who know her. Unfortunately he is murdered at the Un-Fair and Molly soon becomes the chief suspect. As always, Meg starts digging and almost ends up murdered in the Midway. Saved by a donkey, she solves the crimes and leaves the fair with llama ribbons and heritage chickens, to boot.

It's always tons of fun spending time with uber organized Meg and her colorful entourage. The Hen of the Baskervilles is one of the better episodes in this hilarious and highly entertaining series - don't miss it!

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