An Island of Suspects

Bannalec’s latest in his Brittany-set series (after Death of a Master Chef) is filled with the natural wonders and food of Belle-Île. In the midst of an August heat wave, Commissaire Georges Dupin is called to the scene when a body is found tangled in buoy nets. Someone has strangled Patric Provost, evidently hoping the tide would carry his body out to sea. Dupin follows Provost’s trail to Belle-Île, the largest Breton island. In the little village there, Provost was the largest land owner, disliked by everyone. It’s a very insular community, and no one is willing to reveal much, so Dupin must push for answers. He finds notes indicating that Provost was blackmailed, and his dog is missing. Then another islander is kidnapped, and a ransom demand left behind. Every one of the few suspects seems to have an alibi. Is it the August heat or the mysticism and legends of the island that leave Dupin dizzy and confused in this bewildering investigation?