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Winemaker Detective Mysteries #7
Flambé in Armagnac
In the heart of Gascony, a fire ravages the warehouse of one of Armagnac s top estates, killing the master distiller. Wine expert Benjamin Cooker is called in to estimate the value of the losses. But Cooker and his assistant Virgile want to know more. Did the old alembic explode? Was it really an accident? Why is the estate owner Baron de Castayrac penniless? How legal are his dealings?"
147 pages, Paperback
First published May 26, 2004
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September 20, 2015
Wine Expert Benjamin Cooker is called in to estimate the value of the losses when a warehouse of an Armagnac estate is burned down. Also, the master distiller is killed in the fire that was classified as an accident. But was it really an accident? Cooker and his assistant Virgile travel to Gascony to find out the truth…
One thing I really like with this series is how perfect they are to read between books because of their shortness and because of the cozy French mystery book feeling. This is the third book in the series I have read and now I feel quite familiar with the characters and the setup of the books. Yes, sometimes I wish they were a bit thicker, with a deeper story since the milieu is so fantastic and with a few more twist and turns would be really good. But then the cozy feeling would probably disappear and that would also be a shame.
The story in this one was OK, I kind of liked the previous book Mayhem in Margaux a little bit more, but I think that is because Cookers daughter Margaux was in it and he was very fatherly worried for her when he was introduced to Virgile. I hope she will return in future books.
If you feel like reading some cozy mystery books that take place in France, then perhaps this series is for you.
I received this copy from Le French Book through Edewleiss in return for an honest review!
One thing I really like with this series is how perfect they are to read between books because of their shortness and because of the cozy French mystery book feeling. This is the third book in the series I have read and now I feel quite familiar with the characters and the setup of the books. Yes, sometimes I wish they were a bit thicker, with a deeper story since the milieu is so fantastic and with a few more twist and turns would be really good. But then the cozy feeling would probably disappear and that would also be a shame.
The story in this one was OK, I kind of liked the previous book Mayhem in Margaux a little bit more, but I think that is because Cookers daughter Margaux was in it and he was very fatherly worried for her when he was introduced to Virgile. I hope she will return in future books.
If you feel like reading some cozy mystery books that take place in France, then perhaps this series is for you.
I received this copy from Le French Book through Edewleiss in return for an honest review!
May 9, 2015
I mentioned the Winemaker Detective series to a friend who lives in Paris. She said she hadn’t seen the series or read the books, but that one of the stars in the television series was a good actor. This led to a conversation about American crime shows versus French crime shows: dumbed down versus too complicated. But we both agreed that the French have the wine market locked in.
And in many ways that is what this series is in the cozy mystery market.
This installment finds our favorite wine expert in the home of D’Artagnan, while he and his ever present assistant Virgile are hired to write a report for an insurance company. Benjamin (the French version of Jessica Fletcher) soon discovers that as always there is more going on that at first appears. Because this is France, it involves adultery, good alcohol, food, and rugby.
And in this installment, literature as not only Dumas is referenced by Charles Perrault as well.
In many ways, the mystery presented here – based on the rise and fall of a family- is more tightly plotted than the last book I read in the series. Unlike the previous book, the ending and resolution for some of the characters is more up in the air than in Mayhem in Margeaux, mostly likely because the reader knows nothing too bad will happen to the family Cooker family. Additionally, while still keeping the air of a cozy mystery, there are looks at class and gender differences or double standards. This doesn’t make the book darker than the rest of the series, but perhaps meatier than some of the other volumes.
While it would be impossible to describe Virgile as a lightweight, he comes into his own more in this book. Instead of being given a romantic sub-plot (Virgile is usually the active sensualist), Virgile finds himself in the midst of a new friendship. Some of the best sections in the book concern this relationship, including some very funny rugby scenes, and they serve to deepen Virgile’s character and even make him a tad more likable. He becomes more than the pretty face and servicing body part that he was in danger of being in a few of the earlier books. He is far more likable here.
I find myself looking always on the lookout for the newest volume in this fun, cozy mystery series.
And in many ways that is what this series is in the cozy mystery market.
This installment finds our favorite wine expert in the home of D’Artagnan, while he and his ever present assistant Virgile are hired to write a report for an insurance company. Benjamin (the French version of Jessica Fletcher) soon discovers that as always there is more going on that at first appears. Because this is France, it involves adultery, good alcohol, food, and rugby.
And in this installment, literature as not only Dumas is referenced by Charles Perrault as well.
In many ways, the mystery presented here – based on the rise and fall of a family- is more tightly plotted than the last book I read in the series. Unlike the previous book, the ending and resolution for some of the characters is more up in the air than in Mayhem in Margeaux, mostly likely because the reader knows nothing too bad will happen to the family Cooker family. Additionally, while still keeping the air of a cozy mystery, there are looks at class and gender differences or double standards. This doesn’t make the book darker than the rest of the series, but perhaps meatier than some of the other volumes.
While it would be impossible to describe Virgile as a lightweight, he comes into his own more in this book. Instead of being given a romantic sub-plot (Virgile is usually the active sensualist), Virgile finds himself in the midst of a new friendship. Some of the best sections in the book concern this relationship, including some very funny rugby scenes, and they serve to deepen Virgile’s character and even make him a tad more likable. He becomes more than the pretty face and servicing body part that he was in danger of being in a few of the earlier books. He is far more likable here.
I find myself looking always on the lookout for the newest volume in this fun, cozy mystery series.
July 12, 2015
* ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. *
I recently started the new meme „International Crime“, starting with French crime authors this month. I really think that there is no better start for this meme than a book about wine, mystery and a French castle.
I met Benjamin and his assistant Virgile previously in „Mayhem in Margaux“ and joined them solving the mystery of the car accident. This time they are back with another brand of wine and mystery to solve. There has been a fire in a castle where the best wine Armagnac is produced and the master distiller is dead. Benjamin Cooker is called to estimate the losses and find out more about the fire. Was is an accident or was it all about the insurance? Was the death of master distiller an accident or an attempted murder? Benjamin Cooker has to leave his wife alone on New Year and with his assistant Virgile drive on thin ice to the Chateau Blanzac to find out. But the Chateau doesn't reveal its secrets that easy. The winemaker duo has to use the detective skills to solve the mystery behind the sweetness of the Armagnac.
The character that I absolutely adore here is Virgile, Benjamin's assistant. He is smart, young, clumsy, everything. He is very educated about wine, but he is also a great detective himself. With every other mystery his observation skills are more and more expressed. He is also Virgo, like me, and I can see many of my Virgo habits in his character. It is very easy for me to connect with him as a character.
I also love the writing style of the authors. There are many expressions and old sayings that are used in my country and it is easy for me to understand the whole story. I fell in love with the characters and the plot and I felt like almost tasting the Armagnac.
So, wine lovers, and book lovers also, if you love a perfect break in the shadows of your garden or under the sun on the beach, get a glass of the tasteful Armagnac, and enjoy this cozy mystery perfect for relaxation. Even your gray cells will enjoy!
My opinion: 4,5 / 5.
I recently started the new meme „International Crime“, starting with French crime authors this month. I really think that there is no better start for this meme than a book about wine, mystery and a French castle.
I met Benjamin and his assistant Virgile previously in „Mayhem in Margaux“ and joined them solving the mystery of the car accident. This time they are back with another brand of wine and mystery to solve. There has been a fire in a castle where the best wine Armagnac is produced and the master distiller is dead. Benjamin Cooker is called to estimate the losses and find out more about the fire. Was is an accident or was it all about the insurance? Was the death of master distiller an accident or an attempted murder? Benjamin Cooker has to leave his wife alone on New Year and with his assistant Virgile drive on thin ice to the Chateau Blanzac to find out. But the Chateau doesn't reveal its secrets that easy. The winemaker duo has to use the detective skills to solve the mystery behind the sweetness of the Armagnac.
The character that I absolutely adore here is Virgile, Benjamin's assistant. He is smart, young, clumsy, everything. He is very educated about wine, but he is also a great detective himself. With every other mystery his observation skills are more and more expressed. He is also Virgo, like me, and I can see many of my Virgo habits in his character. It is very easy for me to connect with him as a character.
I also love the writing style of the authors. There are many expressions and old sayings that are used in my country and it is easy for me to understand the whole story. I fell in love with the characters and the plot and I felt like almost tasting the Armagnac.
So, wine lovers, and book lovers also, if you love a perfect break in the shadows of your garden or under the sun on the beach, get a glass of the tasteful Armagnac, and enjoy this cozy mystery perfect for relaxation. Even your gray cells will enjoy!
My opinion: 4,5 / 5.
May 10, 2015
[I received this book free from the publisher through NetGalley. I thank them for their generousity. In exchange, I was simply asked to write an honest review, and post it. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising]
Benjamin Cooker, and his trusty sidekick Virgile head down to the Gascony area, home of the Three Musketeers and some of the best Armagnac in the world, and the town that holds many secrets. Cooker has been sent to inspect and report on an insurance claim from Jean-Charles de Castayrac, one of the long time producers of this distilled product known all over for many centuries. It will give Benjamin and Virgile another adventure wrapped in food, wine and irony.
They find more than what is asked for as long held secrets are unburied, misapprpriated funds are reported, and long held understandings are both locked away and blown wide open. Is Castayrasc on the up and up? Are his children as innocent as they appear? Just who is who?
Another French Winemaker mystery; what fun, was my though upon finding this, my fourth foray into these lovely books. I learn so much within them. And I really like that Benjamin isn't treating Virgile as just his lackey anymore. Virgile knows people as Cooker knows wines. It's nice to see the interaction and respect grow as the series matures.
Benjamin Cooker, and his trusty sidekick Virgile head down to the Gascony area, home of the Three Musketeers and some of the best Armagnac in the world, and the town that holds many secrets. Cooker has been sent to inspect and report on an insurance claim from Jean-Charles de Castayrac, one of the long time producers of this distilled product known all over for many centuries. It will give Benjamin and Virgile another adventure wrapped in food, wine and irony.
They find more than what is asked for as long held secrets are unburied, misapprpriated funds are reported, and long held understandings are both locked away and blown wide open. Is Castayrasc on the up and up? Are his children as innocent as they appear? Just who is who?
Another French Winemaker mystery; what fun, was my though upon finding this, my fourth foray into these lovely books. I learn so much within them. And I really like that Benjamin isn't treating Virgile as just his lackey anymore. Virgile knows people as Cooker knows wines. It's nice to see the interaction and respect grow as the series matures.
March 29, 2016
'Flambé in Armagnac' is the 7th book in the Winemaker Detective series by Jean-Pierre Alaux and Noel Balen. It seems to show no signs of slowing down and there is still a lot to learn about the world of French wine.
This time around, the story takes place in Gascony. A fire at one of the top distillers of Armagnac has occurred and Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile are called in to estimate the value of the losses. Benjamin has friends in the region, which is good because the owner of the disillery is hostile. Along the way, Virgile meets a fellow rugby player and family secrets as well as a possible murder are uncovered.
These are quick reads, but I enjoy the series. One aspect is the wine education, one is the travel and food of the different regions of France, but the main one might be our two main characters. A quick enjoyable read. I only wish I'd had a glass of Armagnac to sip while I read it.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Le French Book and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
This time around, the story takes place in Gascony. A fire at one of the top distillers of Armagnac has occurred and Benjamin Cooker and his assistant Virgile are called in to estimate the value of the losses. Benjamin has friends in the region, which is good because the owner of the disillery is hostile. Along the way, Virgile meets a fellow rugby player and family secrets as well as a possible murder are uncovered.
These are quick reads, but I enjoy the series. One aspect is the wine education, one is the travel and food of the different regions of France, but the main one might be our two main characters. A quick enjoyable read. I only wish I'd had a glass of Armagnac to sip while I read it.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Le French Book and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
August 13, 2015
Flambe in Armagnac is another enjoyable entry in the Winemaker Detective Series, based on a long-running French TV series. The famous winemaker, Benjamin Cooker, and his assistant, Virgile are called into Gascony to consult with the insurance provider for a famous winery/distiller. The winery was destroyed by fire, killing the Cellarmaster as well. The owner is claiming huge damages but as usual, things are not as they seem. The business is in financial ruins and the owner has a very bad reputation, to say the least. Could the fire have been set deliberately?
The Winemaker Detective Series is full of descriptions of the various French regions, winemaking lore and food, food, food! They are all short reads, just right for an evening's reading and escape. Thanks to Le French Book and netgalley.com for an advance digital copy.
The Winemaker Detective Series is full of descriptions of the various French regions, winemaking lore and food, food, food! They are all short reads, just right for an evening's reading and escape. Thanks to Le French Book and netgalley.com for an advance digital copy.
May 26, 2016
Need a quick read while waiting at the doctor's office or flying off to a meeting in a not too distant city, this just might be the book for you. The pace is quick with sparse description of the French surroundings but oh the description of the food and seasoned vintages of Armagnac - a golden elixir of the gods. This cozy mystery has the usual suspects but with the needed twists to keep it interesting and clever. This was a quick and most enjoyable read. Bon appétit!
I am grateful to translator Sally Pane, publisher Le French Book and LibraryThing Early Reviewers for having provided a free copy of this book. Their generosity did not, however, influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
I am grateful to translator Sally Pane, publisher Le French Book and LibraryThing Early Reviewers for having provided a free copy of this book. Their generosity did not, however, influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
December 1, 2015
This is the second novella in the Winemaker's series that I have read and already the characters of Benjamin and Virgile feel like friends I am happy to be in the company of and indeed cherish.
The two are asked to look into a fire on the Armagnac estate in which the master distiller dies. As the business was in trouble, the question arises as to whether it was done for the money. Family and local secrets are uncovered.
As usual, I found myself imbibing the culture and the atmosphere provided by the novella, the humour and wit of Benjamin and Virgile and their interactions. Loved it and I intend to continue reading these gems. Many thanks to Le French publishers for a ebook copy via netgalley for an honest review.
The two are asked to look into a fire on the Armagnac estate in which the master distiller dies. As the business was in trouble, the question arises as to whether it was done for the money. Family and local secrets are uncovered.
As usual, I found myself imbibing the culture and the atmosphere provided by the novella, the humour and wit of Benjamin and Virgile and their interactions. Loved it and I intend to continue reading these gems. Many thanks to Le French publishers for a ebook copy via netgalley for an honest review.
November 11, 2019
Starting with a really badly designed cover, through boring writing and a very thin plot to a wrap-it-up with a quick confession ending, this was not a good read. Benjamin Cooker, a wine expert who is referred to as such ad nauseum, and his skirt-chasing sidekick Virgile investigate a fire at the estate of a well known armagnac producer to determine the payout of an insurance policy. The losses and the death of the chateau's master distiller when the still supposedly exploded puts the future of the estate in jeopardy. Not surprisingly, the insurance claims are inflated, and the owner's gambling debts and tangled family situation are to blame. I was roped in by the armagnac and the Gers, and did find some happy memories of the foie gras, the pot stills, the folle-blanche, woodcock hunting, and slicing bread with a Laguiole - but they were all just glimpses, not rich experiences.
June 9, 2019
If you like wine or just want to learn more whilst enjoy a cosy mystery set in France, then these books are for you. They are easy to read, there is no overt violence, the descriptions of the scenery make the story come to life; and there is a great personal interaction between Benjamin and his protegee, Virgile. The stories are not overly long, and the pace is constant, all being riveting to the end.
May 29, 2018
A very good cozy mystery with an interesting settings, full of lovely description. The book is well written, the plot interesting and the characters are very likeable.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Le French Book and Edelweiss for this ARC
Recommended!
Many thanks to Le French Book and Edelweiss for this ARC
October 19, 2018
Benjamin Cooker is brought in as a consultant by the insurance company to estimate the losses after a fire at an eau de vie distillery. The author’s portrayal of Benjamin has always been just a sliver away from insufferable. However, in this entry it crosses well over that boundary.
October 15, 2020
This novella, the 7th in the series, somehow clicked with me - the clues were all there but not too obvious; the Armagnac setting & learning a bit about how eau de vie are made; Benjamin & his assistant... Perhaps it is not quite a 4* book but it was the right book for me at the moment.
March 18, 2017
Review to come
September 5, 2015
‘Gastro Crime’ Thriller Pays Lip-smacking Homage to Food and Drink, 25 July 2015
As I recently stayed in rustic, rural France this little novella was right up my Rue!!
And, for me, a new genre has landed - Gastro Crime. The homage to food and drink throughout this story almost outdoes John Lanchester without the madness of The Debt to Pleasure. But this surely was a pleasure to read. And for anyone who might be daunted by a five hundred page-plus crime thriller then I think this is an ideal solution. I believe this is just one story in a whole series. And I don’t know if my mouth is watering from the thought of more of these stories or the descriptions of food.
However this is a translation and I always think you’re only getting half a book when you read a work in translation. Through no fault of the translator the subtleties of the language, the idioms and cadences are lost. So there is a slightly staccato feel to the flow of the narrative. Sacre Bleu!! I wish I were fluent in French and could read this in the original. I would probably give five stars.
But, translation notwithstanding, we are treated to a delightful menu of French customs and etiquette. I had absolutely no idea that the much parodied and emulated cheek peck kisses follow strict regional protocol as to how many kisses should be offered to each cheek!! And apart from how to drink the stuff I knew nothing about the production of brandies.
And to the crime story itself. It is compact and accessible. Paradoxical almost as it is understated, undemanding and yet there are the intricacies and complexities of a crime plot. I found a predictability as the story unfolded but it is the unravelling of the details of the crime that allows the book to get away with that. I’d need to read some more in the series to refine my opinion but I think these would make a great TV series.
I have a very clear picture of Benjamin Cooker, his competence and professionalism. Indeed all characters have their clear parts to play. No one was gratuitous. Some were a little one dimensional. But our main protagonists were believable.
There was something almost delightfully old fashioned as the mature, experienced Benjamin allowed his younger sidekick to learn and develop alongside him, something Holmes and Watsony? Maybe that’s a step too far. It wasn’t quite Batman and Robin but you get the idea?
And I loved the name of the dog!! So apt. I’m not going to tell you what it is. I don’t do spoilers.--Sante
Rating: Four Stars.
As I recently stayed in rustic, rural France this little novella was right up my Rue!!
And, for me, a new genre has landed - Gastro Crime. The homage to food and drink throughout this story almost outdoes John Lanchester without the madness of The Debt to Pleasure. But this surely was a pleasure to read. And for anyone who might be daunted by a five hundred page-plus crime thriller then I think this is an ideal solution. I believe this is just one story in a whole series. And I don’t know if my mouth is watering from the thought of more of these stories or the descriptions of food.
However this is a translation and I always think you’re only getting half a book when you read a work in translation. Through no fault of the translator the subtleties of the language, the idioms and cadences are lost. So there is a slightly staccato feel to the flow of the narrative. Sacre Bleu!! I wish I were fluent in French and could read this in the original. I would probably give five stars.
But, translation notwithstanding, we are treated to a delightful menu of French customs and etiquette. I had absolutely no idea that the much parodied and emulated cheek peck kisses follow strict regional protocol as to how many kisses should be offered to each cheek!! And apart from how to drink the stuff I knew nothing about the production of brandies.
And to the crime story itself. It is compact and accessible. Paradoxical almost as it is understated, undemanding and yet there are the intricacies and complexities of a crime plot. I found a predictability as the story unfolded but it is the unravelling of the details of the crime that allows the book to get away with that. I’d need to read some more in the series to refine my opinion but I think these would make a great TV series.
I have a very clear picture of Benjamin Cooker, his competence and professionalism. Indeed all characters have their clear parts to play. No one was gratuitous. Some were a little one dimensional. But our main protagonists were believable.
There was something almost delightfully old fashioned as the mature, experienced Benjamin allowed his younger sidekick to learn and develop alongside him, something Holmes and Watsony? Maybe that’s a step too far. It wasn’t quite Batman and Robin but you get the idea?
And I loved the name of the dog!! So apt. I’m not going to tell you what it is. I don’t do spoilers.--Sante
Rating: Four Stars.
August 19, 2015
Another delightful mystery set in the wine and culinary culture of France, Flambe' In Armagnac introduces the reader to descriptions of great French cooking, delicious wines, and something that was new to me...the practice of using travelling distilleries to perfect the wines at various vineyards in the Labastide-d'Armagnac region.
Alaux and Balen have devised a plot that takes premier wine connoisseur Benjamin Cooker and his young apprentice Virgile into Armagnac country to evaluate the extent of losses claimed by a vintner whose wine cellar burned on Christmas Eve. Cooker briefly considers not even taking the case, until he considers the opportunity of visiting old friends in the area which he would otherwise miss.
Benjamin and Virgile visit the claimant, Baron Jean-Charles de Castayrac, at his home, which is rundown and unheated, even on this very cold day. The two wine experts, temporarily insurance investigators, become suspicious when the landowner's claim of destroyed inventory seems extremely high. It is also suspicious that he claims the Cellar Master, Francisco, had kept all the records in the cellar which would have been destroyed in the fire. Tragically the blaze was apparently started by an explosion in the copper distillery, and took the life of Francisco as well.
Cooker and Virgile also have an opportunity to meet the vintner's sons, and are disturbed by the animosity between the sons and the father. Maybe there is more going on than just an accidental fire.
Our heroes are back in detective mode, putting together the clues they pick up, not only from the Castayrac men, but the village residents who are only too willing to gossip about that family.
I received an e-copy of the book from NetGalley. It was originally published in France in 2004, but has been translated by Sally Pane and very recently published in English. It's a quick read, features smart and witty characters, mouth-watering descriptions of the food and wine they enjoy, and a good mystery to boot! Check it out if those concepts appeal to you!
Alaux and Balen have devised a plot that takes premier wine connoisseur Benjamin Cooker and his young apprentice Virgile into Armagnac country to evaluate the extent of losses claimed by a vintner whose wine cellar burned on Christmas Eve. Cooker briefly considers not even taking the case, until he considers the opportunity of visiting old friends in the area which he would otherwise miss.
Benjamin and Virgile visit the claimant, Baron Jean-Charles de Castayrac, at his home, which is rundown and unheated, even on this very cold day. The two wine experts, temporarily insurance investigators, become suspicious when the landowner's claim of destroyed inventory seems extremely high. It is also suspicious that he claims the Cellar Master, Francisco, had kept all the records in the cellar which would have been destroyed in the fire. Tragically the blaze was apparently started by an explosion in the copper distillery, and took the life of Francisco as well.
Cooker and Virgile also have an opportunity to meet the vintner's sons, and are disturbed by the animosity between the sons and the father. Maybe there is more going on than just an accidental fire.
Our heroes are back in detective mode, putting together the clues they pick up, not only from the Castayrac men, but the village residents who are only too willing to gossip about that family.
I received an e-copy of the book from NetGalley. It was originally published in France in 2004, but has been translated by Sally Pane and very recently published in English. It's a quick read, features smart and witty characters, mouth-watering descriptions of the food and wine they enjoy, and a good mystery to boot! Check it out if those concepts appeal to you!
August 13, 2015
It 's a quick read but very compelling and engaging, with characters well written and a storyline simple and believable.
Benjamin and Virgile have a new assignment in Gascony. A fire has destroyed a significant production of Armagnac and unfortunately the masters distillers has lost his life. Our wine expert and detective is called to estimate the loss of Armagnac for an insurance company: the estate's owner asked a high damages and they want to know if it is appropriate. Benjamin will not only make an expertise but will investigate to discover if the fire was not intentional.
In this book has even more space the character of Virgile. He's a nice guy, intelligent, highly educated, just a little clumsy and naive, but is learning much from his head, slowly is gaining the trust and respect of Benjamin.
It 's the seventh book starring the detective winemaker Benjamin but can be read as a stand alone. It's really enjoyable that every book is set in a different region of France and has as its protagonist a different wine: is like taking a wine tour of this wonderful country.
If you enjoyed reading romance about France, good wine and cozy mystery then definitely pick this up!
I received an advance reader edition of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Benjamin and Virgile have a new assignment in Gascony. A fire has destroyed a significant production of Armagnac and unfortunately the masters distillers has lost his life. Our wine expert and detective is called to estimate the loss of Armagnac for an insurance company: the estate's owner asked a high damages and they want to know if it is appropriate. Benjamin will not only make an expertise but will investigate to discover if the fire was not intentional.
In this book has even more space the character of Virgile. He's a nice guy, intelligent, highly educated, just a little clumsy and naive, but is learning much from his head, slowly is gaining the trust and respect of Benjamin.
It 's the seventh book starring the detective winemaker Benjamin but can be read as a stand alone. It's really enjoyable that every book is set in a different region of France and has as its protagonist a different wine: is like taking a wine tour of this wonderful country.
If you enjoyed reading romance about France, good wine and cozy mystery then definitely pick this up!
I received an advance reader edition of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
August 10, 2015
Now that I've discovered this series, I'm reading it in backwards order. So far, so good. This book is a bit more eery and disturbing than the next book in the series. While the tone continues to be light, there are scenes of rudeness, anger, mental instability, family dysfunction, and some violence. I wasn't worried about either Benjamin or Virgile being attacked when at rest, but the tragedy that occurred did make more than one character behave in unpredictable ways. Again, the story behind the crime is very sad. We are not left to wallow in this, though, and there are some signs of hope at the end of the book.
This particular story provides more tidbits about French culture, including life in the old manor houses. It also includes a description of the Armagnac distillation process, as well as descriptions of the scent/flavor of the liquor. I've never tried it, but now want to seek some out. Even though this is the 7th book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. While relative short, the writing is such that we understand relationships and interactions without additional description. Now for book 6...
I received a free copy for review from the publisher through NetGalley.
This particular story provides more tidbits about French culture, including life in the old manor houses. It also includes a description of the Armagnac distillation process, as well as descriptions of the scent/flavor of the liquor. I've never tried it, but now want to seek some out. Even though this is the 7th book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. While relative short, the writing is such that we understand relationships and interactions without additional description. Now for book 6...
I received a free copy for review from the publisher through NetGalley.
September 14, 2015
Another scrumptious mystery stumbled upon by Cooker and Virgile. Not only are we charmed by warm hospitality, delicious descriptions of food and drink, we also enjoy trivia, along with Cooker’s gift of reciting quotes and rugby. As usual Alaux and Balen weave variety into a seamless mystery.
Virgile gains a new friend, in the form of a male, unusual for this charismatic ladies man never short of female admirers. We see Virgile’s emotional and sensitive side over his concern for his new friend and as he bears difficult news to the lawbreaker. A nice change of pace all around. Cooker is his usual self, thinking of Elisabeth while separated, indulging in food and grog with fervor. Their sleuth solving was a cinch since the culprit admits to his crime.
My favorite aspect of the series is how we are introduced to the mystery. Each installment offers a variety of ways the mystery takes place and when the dynamic duo starts gathering tools and solving. Never slavish, much appreciated.
With all the pleasant distractions in combination with a scandalous family’s doings another intriguing mystery enjoyed. Once again the creativity of Alaux and Balen demonstrating their exceeding talents in this delightful mystery series.
Virgile gains a new friend, in the form of a male, unusual for this charismatic ladies man never short of female admirers. We see Virgile’s emotional and sensitive side over his concern for his new friend and as he bears difficult news to the lawbreaker. A nice change of pace all around. Cooker is his usual self, thinking of Elisabeth while separated, indulging in food and grog with fervor. Their sleuth solving was a cinch since the culprit admits to his crime.
My favorite aspect of the series is how we are introduced to the mystery. Each installment offers a variety of ways the mystery takes place and when the dynamic duo starts gathering tools and solving. Never slavish, much appreciated.
With all the pleasant distractions in combination with a scandalous family’s doings another intriguing mystery enjoyed. Once again the creativity of Alaux and Balen demonstrating their exceeding talents in this delightful mystery series.
June 6, 2015
This is the third book that I have read in the Winemaker Detective Mystery series, this is the seventh book published and it is fine to read as a stand alone. The main character in the books is renowned wine expert Benjamin Cooker. In this installment in the heart of Gascony, a fire has ravaged the warehouse of one of Armagnac’s top estates, killing the master distiller. Cooker is called in to estimate the value of the losses but immediately, he and his assistant Virgile want to know more as there are too many unanswered questions – Did the old alembic explode? Was it really an accident? Why is the estate owner Baron de Castayrac penniless? How legal are his dealings? The book is well paced and a very easy page turner and it does leave you guessing who dunnit until very near the end – just what I like in these kind of books! I have enjoyed all of the books in the series and they are all really well written. Cooker and Virgile are a lovely double-act and support each other as the books progress, Virgile in this one does have more of a lead which is nice. I am already looking forward to the next in the series – 4 stars from me.
March 1, 2016
Benjamin Cooker gets a letter from an insurance company asking him to provide a value report for a vineyard, which suffered a fire. Benjamin’s first thought was not to accept the offer but changed his mind.
While investigating, Benjamin learns a man died in the fire. Everyone has nice things to say about Francisco Vasquez and is sad of his passing. Was his death an accident or pre-meditated. As Virgile digs through the rubble to find clues, Benjamin is uncovering more information into the winery.
Tension gets high between a father and his sons. Could one of them had anything to do with setting the fire to collect from the insurance company? Benjamin returns home but soon Virgile calls him back for more research. When more deaths occur, Benjamin scrambles to find out what is happening.
This is the seventh book in the Winemaker Detective series. This is a very interesting series. I enjoy the characters and their quirkiness. I also learned a lot about the distillation process. This is a great cozy series for anyone interested in wine or food.
While investigating, Benjamin learns a man died in the fire. Everyone has nice things to say about Francisco Vasquez and is sad of his passing. Was his death an accident or pre-meditated. As Virgile digs through the rubble to find clues, Benjamin is uncovering more information into the winery.
Tension gets high between a father and his sons. Could one of them had anything to do with setting the fire to collect from the insurance company? Benjamin returns home but soon Virgile calls him back for more research. When more deaths occur, Benjamin scrambles to find out what is happening.
This is the seventh book in the Winemaker Detective series. This is a very interesting series. I enjoy the characters and their quirkiness. I also learned a lot about the distillation process. This is a great cozy series for anyone interested in wine or food.
August 22, 2015
Benjamin and Virgile are back at it, but this time Benjamin has been asked to estimate the damage done at an estate which had a devastating fire in their cellars along with an accidental death. Being an expert in the field, this is the type of routine work Benjamin is often asked to do by insurance companies. This was a fine, engaging cozy just as I had anticipated it would be. Perhaps not as exciting or fun as the last two, but that happens with long series. I still thoroughly enjoyed this seventh entry with its banter between Benjamin and Virgile, the atmosphere of cigars and (this time) down home country French food. Virgile is ahead of his boss on the mystery this time, which was fun to read and several twists to the story kept me on my feet figuring this one out. I really enjoyed all the wine talk this time around especially as I'd never heard of Armagnac and am eager to give my tastebuds a swirl!
September 18, 2015
I think this is my first amateur sleuth set in France and I know it won't be the last, especially from this series. I really enjoyed this fast-moving mystery. Made me hungry (except for foie gras) and definitely want to go look for the availability of Armagnac, a distillation of wine. The descriptions of the food and drink were rhapsodically eloquent. Noses of quince, pear, plum, mango, honey.....yum.
Benjamin Cooker, the main character, is the premiere winemaker in all of France and also assists insurance companies when their investigations involve vineyards and wineries. He is the main character, but the book has another voice/viewpoint in Benjamin's assistant Virgile. I like both characters, one older, one young differing and similar in voice.
There is a fire, mysterious death, paternity questions, questionable insurance claims, heated local politics. And lovely food and drink....
Simply superb.
Definite recommend.
Benjamin Cooker, the main character, is the premiere winemaker in all of France and also assists insurance companies when their investigations involve vineyards and wineries. He is the main character, but the book has another voice/viewpoint in Benjamin's assistant Virgile. I like both characters, one older, one young differing and similar in voice.
There is a fire, mysterious death, paternity questions, questionable insurance claims, heated local politics. And lovely food and drink....
Simply superb.
Definite recommend.
June 2, 2015
This is a review of the eBook format provided by Netgalley for an honest opinion.
Benjamin Cooker is at it again. He is hired by an insurance co. to evaluate the value of the Armagnac stock lost in a fire. This time around it is Virgil who has suspicions about the cause of the fire. This was a good read, but after having read Mayhem in Margaux, I found I enjoyed this story just a bit less. Another tale for sitting back with a cigar or near someone who smokes cigars and sipping your favorite spirit in a room with leather-bound books and dark paneling.
More capers with some old friends, old cars, old family's, new friendships formed, hospitality, suspicions abound, Virgil gains a conscience (!?!), soccer, upper class snobbery, family drama, family secrets, greed, jealousy, unrequited love, mystery, death, food, wine and brandy.
Benjamin Cooker is at it again. He is hired by an insurance co. to evaluate the value of the Armagnac stock lost in a fire. This time around it is Virgil who has suspicions about the cause of the fire. This was a good read, but after having read Mayhem in Margaux, I found I enjoyed this story just a bit less. Another tale for sitting back with a cigar or near someone who smokes cigars and sipping your favorite spirit in a room with leather-bound books and dark paneling.
More capers with some old friends, old cars, old family's, new friendships formed, hospitality, suspicions abound, Virgil gains a conscience (!?!), soccer, upper class snobbery, family drama, family secrets, greed, jealousy, unrequited love, mystery, death, food, wine and brandy.
August 31, 2015
Benjamin Cooker and his assistant are hired by an insurance company to evaluate the losses of one of Armagnac's factory. A fire destroyed the factory and the master distiller is dead. How did the fire stop? How did the master distiller die? As Benjamin and his assistant Virgile investigate, the estate owner is stand of fish and snobby. He also is short of money and offers little hospitality. As Cooker and Virgile investigate secrets are discovered.
The cozy mystery is fast paced and easy to read. It is an enjoyable read. I love the writing style of the authors. I am glad that I got to read it.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The cozy mystery is fast paced and easy to read. It is an enjoyable read. I love the writing style of the authors. I am glad that I got to read it.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
June 10, 2015
I received a pre-publication copy of this book through NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing it.
This is a light, entertaining read, which will particularly appeal to lovers of fine brandy and food. The food and brandy are described in gourmet prose that make you want to go and try some right away. Very seductive. Cigars are also mentioned, but I couldn't really relate to that. It is a straightforward crime-solving story, and the investigator/winemaker and his enthusiastic, rugby-playing assistant are quite endearing characters, although they are not particularly complex or interesting. It wasn't difficult to guess how the plot would turn out, but that didn't matter so much. It is, after all, mostly about the ambience, the descriptions of the food and the brandy.
This is a light, entertaining read, which will particularly appeal to lovers of fine brandy and food. The food and brandy are described in gourmet prose that make you want to go and try some right away. Very seductive. Cigars are also mentioned, but I couldn't really relate to that. It is a straightforward crime-solving story, and the investigator/winemaker and his enthusiastic, rugby-playing assistant are quite endearing characters, although they are not particularly complex or interesting. It wasn't difficult to guess how the plot would turn out, but that didn't matter so much. It is, after all, mostly about the ambience, the descriptions of the food and the brandy.
September 19, 2015
Virgile and Cooker get involved in a sticky situation after a fire in a brandy-maker's chateau. Armagnac is a variety of grape brandy and we get to see the distillation process. However brandy is not selling so well since the economic slowdown, and the chateau needs the insurance money from the fire in the cellar which destroyed the wine and brandy stock.
A chief brandy maker perished in the fire, and the possibility of family rivalries emerges as the two wine experts ask questions on behalf of the insurance company.
This is an unusual, descriptive, indulgent amateur sleuth story, set again in a particular region of France and well translated from the original. While fans of the series will enjoy Flambe, you don't need to have read the other stories - but they are addictive!
A chief brandy maker perished in the fire, and the possibility of family rivalries emerges as the two wine experts ask questions on behalf of the insurance company.
This is an unusual, descriptive, indulgent amateur sleuth story, set again in a particular region of France and well translated from the original. While fans of the series will enjoy Flambe, you don't need to have read the other stories - but they are addictive!
July 21, 2015
A nice mystery in the Landes, where a castle Armagnac cellar has burned, causing the death of the maitre de chaix, the cellar master. Benjamin Cooker and his faithful Virgile are asked by the insurance company to check the losses suffered by the property.
Just by checking through the ashes and rubble left by the fire, the two investigators get suspicious. The demijohns should have left pieces and bits, even if they had exploded. The baron, owner of the property, claims to have had much more than what can be traced.
Their investigation goes on, with great food and amazing drinks. That is the most pleasant part of the book, making you hungry and wanting to visit France's southwest.
Just by checking through the ashes and rubble left by the fire, the two investigators get suspicious. The demijohns should have left pieces and bits, even if they had exploded. The baron, owner of the property, claims to have had much more than what can be traced.
Their investigation goes on, with great food and amazing drinks. That is the most pleasant part of the book, making you hungry and wanting to visit France's southwest.
August 20, 2015
This is another good story from the Winemaker Detective Series. Benjamin and his assistant Virgile investigate a fire at the Château Blanzac where the Armagnac has been destroyed and the master distiller is dead. Is it a straightforward insurance case or is it more? On the way to finding out the writers give the reader not only a good story but great food, drink and atmosphere. Once again, I feel like I've been on a journey through the French countryside. I can't wait to read more in this series.
I would like to say thanks to Library Thing and Le French Books for providing the “Early Reviewers” copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to say thanks to Library Thing and Le French Books for providing the “Early Reviewers” copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2015
Sip a glass of rare ’56 Armagnac brandy as you settle in to follow wine expert Benjamin Cooker and his sharp young assistant Virgile as they investigate the wine cellar fire and master distiller’s death at one of the region’s most famous estates.
You’ll travel to France, of course, to taste the complex flavors, the unraveling of a mystery exposing financial ruin and the debris of a family name, while relishing the French countryside, the gourmet country dishes, and the simple pleasurable delight of this rare series.
You deserve something special today – and this is it!
You’ll travel to France, of course, to taste the complex flavors, the unraveling of a mystery exposing financial ruin and the debris of a family name, while relishing the French countryside, the gourmet country dishes, and the simple pleasurable delight of this rare series.
You deserve something special today – and this is it!
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