About the Book Richard is a middle-aged Englishman who runs a B&B in the fictional Val de Follet in the Loire Valley. Nothing ever happens to Richard, and really thats the way he likes it. One day, however, one of his older guests disappears, leaving behind a bloody handprint on the wallpaper. Another guest, the exotic Valerie, persuades a reluctant Richard to join her in investigating the disappearance. Richard remains a dazed passenger in the case until things become really serious and someone murders Ava Gardner, one of his beloved hens ... and you dont mess with a fellows hens! Bestselling author Ian Moore brings his laugh-out-loud, tea-soaked British humor to Death and Croissants, an unputdownable, quirky mystery that gives readers a fascinating puzzle to unravel as they romp through the French countryside alongside an unforgettable cast of characters. -- Back cover. Book Synopsis Laugh-out-loud caper. -- Shelf Awareness, Starred Review A fast-paced, witty story for those who enjoy dry British humor. -- Library Journal Meet Richard Ainsworth: an almost divorced part time B&B owner, part time film historian, full time self-deprecator. Hoping to continue running his B&B in the quiet Val de Follet, he has no idea of its hidden intrigue, from the mafia to swingers, to the peddling of (il)legal grape seeds. His quiet has flown the coop on a fateful afternoon with a bloody handprint, a missing guest, and one dead Ava Gardner (beloved hen). Death and Croissants is an unputdownable, hilarious mystery perfect for fans of Richard Osmans The Thursday Murder Club . What readers are saying: Richard Osman meets Sherlock Holmes rampaging through the charming Loire Valley in this raucously funny book. I loved it. A light, very funny mystery with appealing characters in a wonderful French countryside. Oh wow, this was funny. This one just knocks it out of the park. A story full of interesting and diverse characters told with lots of humor. The author gives you everything you want in a humorous, witty mystery that chases you through all the twists and turns with murder, mafia, and mayhem. Review Quotes [This] charming mystery, released in 2021 in the UK, is a fast-paced, witty story for those who enjoy dry British humor. -- Library Journal