Murder @ Work, Yvonne Eve Walus

Murder mystery

Have you ever had a Boss From Hell? Not someone who's basically nice except on their off-peak days... we're talking about a Verbal Abuser who can't be sued or fired. Seduced by the heat of a South African summer, would you be tempted to tamper with his tea a little... just a little... ???

Back Cover

Christine Chamberlain doesn't want much from life: a steady job, a baby and a Fields Medal. Her boss, however, wants money and he is willing to do anything to get his way, even if it means getting Christine involved in a project that not only jeopardises her dreams, but might also put her in danger.

When Christine complains to her colleagues, they joke about killing the boss to solve the problem. They discuss the murder by email. Almost everybody has an obvious motive to get rid of the boss from hell... and a few hidden ones they don't share.

The next day, Christine brings fennel oil to work. In itself, it's not the world's deadliest poison, and Christine would of course never dream to use it as such. Or would she?

Excerpt

        “Tom,” said Christine, and his hand paused on the light switch.  It was well after midnight, but the room was still sweltering.  They didn’t dare open the windows yet and let in the fat highveld mosquitoes.  “Did you think it through?  I’m worried about financing the trip.  If I quit tomorrow --”
        “Today.” He glanced at the alarm clock.  “You will quit today.  And next week we’ll be in Greece for the Maths Conference that will change your life.”
        She smiled. “Splendid.  And the money will fall from the sky.”
        “Listen.,” Tom He rolled over the top sheet.  His body glistened from the high heat in the air temperature.  “You are a good programmer.  And a damned good analyst.  You’ll find another job in a flash.”
        “And if --”
        “Then we’ll just manage without it.  Stuff real life, honey baby.  This is your dream.  Don’t you dare run away.”

Reviews and Comments

• "A great read. Very witty. Very fresh."
• "An insight into South Africa without being bogged down with facts."
• "Excellent dialogue."
• click here for more