Infinite Books

“Getting old isn’t for the faint of heart,” the American movie star Mae West once said, and the residents of a senior citizens’ home share in the quaint English village of Duck End can attest to it. In addition to the common ailments of old age, they face an unexplained murder at a next-door house and another body in their own place. Albeit slowly (mobility issues), they spring into action.

Agnes, Edwina, Bernadette, Charlie, Marshall, and Winston have all seen their share of action in life. Some used to work for the police or military and are not strangers to using a gun. Some – like Edwina – are more spiritual, do yoga, and feel a deep connection to a pet tortoise, but they can be remarkably effective when needed. They don’t want to “age gracefully” and decide that maintaining their independence is the most essential thing in their lives. It is terrifying to think they might change so much as not to be themselves anymore.

I enjoyed listening to this cozy mystery much more than I expected. It was humorous and serious and didn’t try to sugarcoat the many problems of old age. Still, those problems were shown just as obstacles to deal with and overcome with the help of friends. The quirky characters of the house are depicted with warmth and a sense of humor, and their dignity and friendship shine throughout the plot. The plot is also good, full of exciting turns and twists. I adored the pet tortoise Hettie and a frisky wolfhound Brexit.

“The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp” is another example of the trend of cozy mysteries with seniors as main characters – “Thursday Murder Club” or “Killers of Certain Age,” just to mention a few, and a great addition to this newer genre, combining fun and seriousness into a tasty treat for cozy mystery lovers.

THE SUNSET YEARS OF AGNES SHARP by Leonie Swann, Soho Crime, 2023