by
Michael Bond
A humorous, sometimes ironic and at other times farcical mystery, is mostly fun and is filled with mouth-watering, savoring hints of French cuisine.
Reviewed by David on November 29, 2002
Genre: Mystery (Amateur Sleuth, Food)
Synopsis: Monsieur Pamplemousse, an inspector at the culinary magazine Le Guide, visits a fine country inn, where the excellent chef may be in line to receive the coveted—and elusive—third Stock Pot in the prestigious Le Guide.
M. Pamplemousse does not expect to be disappointed at the fine restaurant, but he certainly gets his fill of surprises. From the over-salty sauce, to most perculiar dishes, to a mysterious man with two iron hooks to the most ominous of all—Madam Pamplemousse herself—the culinary inspector and former agent of the Surete is confronted with mysteries and dangers. Luckily, his faithful canine companion, Pommes Frites, stands ready to help, whether with the delectable dishes or with gun-wielding miscreants.
This trip, however, proves difficult for both the master and the dog. Will either survive it?
Full Review: The book's plot is frequently preposterous, but it's entertaining as well. Possibly the most attractive character is the dog, although the tolerant chef and his reverential attitude towards food is appealing as well. Most of the other characters are clearly exaggerated prototypes in this frequently slapstick comedy. Some of the humor is bitingly effective, while some seems strained and overdone, much like in the Inspector Cluseau movies which this series frequently resembles.
The savoring, detailed and slightly-over-the-top description of food redeems the bumbling inspector, as it does the book.
With its combination of enticing food, and occasionally witty humor, the book entertains despite its weak plot and slapstick character. The end result is enjoyable if not filling—like some fried confection.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 4; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6; World-building: 6; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1985, Recorded Books, 1991, Audio Cassette, 4 cassettes
Order from: Recorded Books