Professor Peter Shandy Mystery

Charlotte MacLeod
Started in 1974
5 Books

About the Series

The 'Professor Peter Shandy Mystery' series follows the witty and eccentric titular character, Professor Peter Shandy, a dedicated and somewhat absent-minded agricultural expert at the fictional Balaclava Agricultural College. Set in the quaint and quirky town of Balaclava, the series combines elements of mystery, humor, and academia, as Shandy often finds himself embroiled in murder investigations that require his unique insights into agriculture and rural life. With a cast of colorful characters, each mystery unfolds with clever plotting and engaging dialogue, making it a delightful read for fans of cozy mysteries.

Series Details

  • Author:Charlotte MacLeod
  • Started:1974
  • Books:5
  • Status:Complete

Genres

MysteryCozy MysteryComedyFiction

Themes

Intellectual CuriosityCommunity and FriendshipJusticeRural LifeThe Absurdities of Academia

Books in Order

1

Rest You Merry

1974

In the inaugural book of the series, Professor Peter Shandy returns to Balaclava for the holiday season only to find himself in the middle of a murder mystery involving an old friend. As the snow falls and the holiday spirit is dampened by suspicion, Shandy must use his intellect to unravel the clues before the killer strikes again.

Series StartCore Series
2

The Corpse in Oozak's Pond

1976

When a body is discovered in a local pond, Professor Shandy is reluctantly drawn into the investigation. As he navigates a web of secrets and lies within the community, he uncovers troubling truths about the people he thought he knew. This installment blends humor and suspense, showcasing Shandy's knack for solving the unthinkable.

Core Series
3

The Grub and Staker Christmas Mystery

1978

During a holiday gathering at the Grub and Staker Inn, a festive cheer quickly turns to horror when one of the guests is found dead. With the local authorities baffled, it's up to Professor Shandy to piece together the clues amidst holiday merriment, revealing unexpected alliances and motives.

Core Series
4

The Flowering of the Dead

1981

In this thrilling installment, a series of unexplained deaths linked to a mysterious plant cultivator sends shockwaves through Balaclava. Professor Shandy must delve into the world of botany and local folklore to uncover the truth before more lives are lost.

Core Series
5

The Last of the Pioneers

1984

As Balaclava prepares for a historical festival, the discovery of a century-old corpse sends the town into a frenzy. Professor Shandy, with his expertise in agriculture and history, must unravel the mystery behind the bones and the secrets long buried in the town's past.

Core SeriesSeries Finale

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'Professor Peter Shandy Mystery' a standalone series?

No, the series features interconnected stories that build upon Professor Shandy's character and his relationships with the residents of Balaclava. Each book can be read independently, but readers may enjoy the character development across the series.

What makes the Professor Peter Shandy series unique in the mystery genre?

The series uniquely combines humor, academia, and rural life, offering readers not just a mystery, but also a glimpse into the quirky dynamics of small-town living and the absurdities of academic life.

How many books are there in the Professor Peter Shandy series?

There are five main books in the series, each featuring Professor Shandy solving a different mystery in the town of Balaclava, with additional short stories and novellas occasionally released.

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