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A review by appalonia
The Coroner's Lunch by Colin Cotterill
5.0
This was a really good mystery story set in 1970’s Laos. I enjoy reading about places I’m unfamiliar with, because I learn just a little bit about the place and its history. The primary character Siri is an older doctor in his early 70’s who was hoping to retire once the revolution was won and communism was in control of Laos. Instead they made him Coroner, a job he knew nothing about. Once involved in an actual investigation however, he is fascinated and is invigorated at the new challenge.
There is also a bit of the supernatural with this story, as Siri finds out he is a Shaman. He dreams of dead people who are able to communicate to him. Throughout this book he learns to accept and believe in his gift. His two assistants are interesting; one is a female nurse who becomes Siri’s protégé, the other a man with Downs Syndrome who greets visitors, keeps the lab clean and passes messages along. Both of these assistants and their unique gifts are treated with respect by Siri. Overall Siri was a very likeable and amusing protagonist, and I look forward to continuing this series. 4.5 stars
There is also a bit of the supernatural with this story, as Siri finds out he is a Shaman. He dreams of dead people who are able to communicate to him. Throughout this book he learns to accept and believe in his gift. His two assistants are interesting; one is a female nurse who becomes Siri’s protégé, the other a man with Downs Syndrome who greets visitors, keeps the lab clean and passes messages along. Both of these assistants and their unique gifts are treated with respect by Siri. Overall Siri was a very likeable and amusing protagonist, and I look forward to continuing this series. 4.5 stars