The Village Green Affair

Neville and Liz have been married for decades, but the spark went out long ago. When a new comer arrives in their quiet English village, Liz feels an immediate attraction. To combat the cracks rapidly forming in their marriage, Neal consults the local parson, Peter Harris, for advice. Meanwhile, the rest of the village is in uproar over the newcomer's presence - he runs a local market which is bringing outside elements, including crime, into their area.

Quote: "'No, you go upstairs. I'll do this.' He rather imagined that was something Peter would say and congratulated himself, then added 'loving contact' by patting her shoulder before collecting their cups together."

This book is the most recent in a long series about life in an English show more village that I typically really enjoy. However, by book 13 it really begins to feel like the author has run out of ideas and has now just turned to rehashing conflicts and issues from previous novels. We have the marriage going south, the affair, the outsider bringing new ideas into the village, the *surprise* death. It all gets a little been there, done that. I still think the series is worth reading, I just hope that the next installment, if there is one, has a little more life to it. show less

Another Turnham Malpas book with quite a similar plot to many of the others but still compulsive and satisfying. I have to say that it ended very suddenly though as if she reached her word count and stopped! I would have liked to know more about what happened to the main protagonists but perhaps that will be in the next in the series.
In summary, a new market comes to the village and brings temptation for a woman in a loveless marriage. It also brings crime along with the strangers and the increased business. Of course the villagers try to prevent change but with debate over whether this will be a good thing - always a recurring theme!
Generally more violence perhaps than in her earlier books too.

The 13th in the series and I must say that I really enjoyed this book - so much happening to all the characters.....good read.

Back Cover Blurb:
A mysterious visitor arrives in Turnham Malpas, snooping around while keeping his cards close to his chest. Soon the village is buzzing with rumour and outrage: is Titus Bellamy planning to hold a market on the picturesque green?
Meanwhile the Neals' marriage is on rocky ground - according to unhappy Liz. But blissfully unaware, Neville is planning their silver wedding anniversary celebration.
The party and the market mark both the beginning and end of two relationships. But who is really to blame.....?