Book Review: Death of a Prankster by M.C. Beaton

When Police Constable Hamish Macbeth is called to a murder at Arrat House, home of relentless practical joker Arthur Trent, he doesn't exactly race to the scene. Prepared for a prank, Hamish arrives to find that Trent is most decidedly dead -- stabbed and stuffed in a closet. And for suspects, there's a houseful of greedy relations, all more interested in the will than the crime at hand.[summary via Goodreads]

I first discovered the Hamish Macbeth mysteries as the tv show, that aired in 1995-1997 featuring Robert Carlyle. This was long before I discovered cozy mysteries and I enjoyed the show. Last year I picked up the books and I've been enjoying the books just as much, if not more.

In the seventh book in this series, Hamish is called upon to investigate the murder of Andrew Trent, a rich man  that enjoyed pulling practical jokes on everyone! The last joke is on him though, when he turns up dead!

I really like these mysteries. They are a little shorter than most cozy mysteries. Death of a Prankster was 176 pages, but never fear that you are missing out, because M.C. Beaton packs a mighty punch within those pages.  She lays out all the clues for Hamish, his fellow police officers, including the rude and pig-headed Blair, and the reader to solve. 

This was a classic mystery with the case of a rich, old man and many family members willing to kill in order to inherit. However, with so many suspects to choice from, it isn't easy for Hamish (and myself too!) to solve. Luckily he had the beautiful Priscilla Hallburton-Smythe by his side, to help unravel the clues!!

Death of a Prankster was another enjoyable adventure with Hamish Macbeth. If you enjoy classic English mysteries, with a similar feel to Agatha Christie's mysteries, then I highly recommend the Hamish Macbeth mysteries. You won't be disappointed!

Purchase Death of a Prankster by M.C. Beaton at Amazon.