June Thomson - Rosemary for Remembrance - Constable Crime - 1988
June Thomson is an astute observer of people, an ingenious plotter of detective stories and a more-than-capable writer.
Any criticisms I have should be seen within the context that `Rosemary` is a very accomplished piece of work.
One criticism I have is that the author seems to come over all breathless whenever a Policeman hoves into view. Quite early in the book we are told that officers attending a murder scene are in `official Police cars` and that the Officer in Charge of the case is `a professional Police Officer`. In the same spirit another Officer is described as "uniformed" even though it is perfectly obvious without being stated. The sole woman Officer in the book is confined to making tea.
Periodically, the author is overcome by a slightly excessive desire for detail. When the Police visit the home of one character we are treated to something of a guide to interior decor, including the carpet (burgundy) an eiderdown (pink), a suite of furniture (figured walnut) and a bedside cabinet ("light oak").
You might think these are rather carping criticisms given the authors` obvious strengths, and perhaps you`d be right. For me personally, these details became a touch wearing, so while overall I enjoyed the book and admired the authors` people-watching skills, I`m not sure I`d read another of her books.
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