Alison Mukherjee Ordre des livres

When Tia reluctantly agrees to look after Bindu, her peevish, grumpy granddaughter, during half term, the last thing that she expects is to spend the week unravelling the theft of a seventeenth century painting Head of a Girl, ‘Hedova’.Hoping to start a new and more exciting life, Robert sets himself up as an art thief. His first target? A picture from the Whitler Gallery, where Tia and her recently widowed colleague Douglas work.Follow Douglas and Tia, an unlikely detective duo, as they investigate the theft and race frantically across the city to prevent the painting from being destroyed. Can Robert prove that he’s got what it takes to embark on a life of crime? And can Tia and Douglas save Hedova?What’s Going on at The Whitler? is a gentle detective story with elements of humour and fantasy, all punctuated by commentary from a Greek chorus of talking portraits for a unique twist.

The story explores the complexities of love and loss through the experiences of Namita, Ann, and Jenny, who navigate their lives after the tragic deaths of their husbands. Ann, the outspoken narrator, confronts harsh realities and seeks solace through her evolving relationship with Colin, a friend of her late husband. The narrative unfolds across diverse settings, from the West Midlands to Kolkata, highlighting cultural contrasts and personal growth as the characters cope with grief and unexpected connections.