The Corpse In Oozak's Pond (1988) - Plot & Excerpts
I was disappointed with “The Corpse In Oozak’s Pond” after finishing “The Palace Guard”; which was phenomenal. The previous Peter novel too, raised the roof on the unexpected; a medieval fantasy! This time, I did like acquainting a far region of university terrain. Discovering a corpse in that pond would make a fascinating mystery; if it had been the antiquated person the synopsis suggested! Instead of an ancient town figure, this is merely another present day murder. Moreover, the two likeliest identities aren’t anyone we know, nor their relatives. This failed to create circumstances we care about. Peter is off mundanely investigating another crime, that we hope becomes interesting in some way. It doesn’t. Additionally, I find narrating with ‘Shandy’ instead of ‘Peter’ grating. I felt it stretched things overmuch, to put a university asset in jeopardy; ownership of Oozak’s Pond. Tossing in that unnecessary gimmick spoiled credibility; as if there were no way for this story to generate urgency than to threaten the precious Balaclava realm. Helen played an important role only through research. Proprietary revenue of the pond and identity of the deceased, tie in motives for three murders. They aren’t compelling reasons, especially given the advanced age of two victims. How information is gathered, undoubtedly tricky to siphon out, felt flat too. It amounted to a lucky instance of observation and relying on a drunk’s memory of townspeople Peter doesn’t know.It’s customary that Charlotte rotates our cast. I appreciate Balaclava’s wealth of characters. I gave three stars because the full-bodied people and community she builds are exceptional. However there are some among them I’d rather see, than Peter. Helen, Sieglinde, and Mr. & Mrs. Dan Stott are grievously underutilized. It is they, who are likeable and make an impact! They would have created a colourful adventure. * Interesting: this is the first paperback without a skeleton on the cover.
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