Mörderfisch zum Muttertag

The book "Feast of Murder" by Jane Haddam, not "Mörderfisch zum Muttertag," is a mystery novel featuring the character Gregor Demarkian, an ex-FBI agent. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

• Retirement and Identity: The novel explores Gregor Demarkian's life after retirement, where he struggles to find new purpose and balance his past as an FBI agent with his current life in a community of Armenian-Americans in Philadelphia.
• Friendship and Relationships: The story highlights the close friendship between Gregor and Bennis Hannaford, an author of fantasy fiction, as they navigate their lives and avoid the pressure of matrimony from their friends.
• Murder Mystery: The central theme revolves around a murder that occurs during a Thanksgiving cruise on a replica of the Mayflower, which Gregor is invited to attend.

Plot Summary

The story begins with Gregor Demarkian and his friend Bennis Hannaford deciding to spend Thanksgiving on a replica of the Mayflower to avoid the social pressures of their community. The ship is owned by Jonathan Edgewick Baird, a wealthy businessman who has recently been released from prison for insider trading. The cruise is meant to be a luxurious getaway, but it turns out to be a challenging and uncomfortable experience for both Gregor and Bennis.

During the cruise, a second death occurs, which prompts Gregor to investigate. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a web of secrets and motives among the passengers. The investigation leads him to confront his own past and the complexities of his relationships.

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception mentioned in the provided source, "Feast of Murder" is part of a series featuring Gregor Demarkian and has generally been well-received by fans of mystery and detective fiction. The series is known for its blend of humor, character development, and intricate plotting, which are typical of Jane Haddam's writing style.

For a more detailed analysis, it would be necessary to consult additional sources or reviews from literary critics or readers who have reviewed the book. However, based on the provided information, it is clear that "Feast of Murder" offers a rich and engaging mystery with well-developed characters and a compelling plot.