cover image THE MINGRELIAN CONSPIRACY: A Mamur Zapt Mystery

THE MINGRELIAN CONSPIRACY: A Mamur Zapt Mystery

Michael Pearce, . . Poisoned Pen, $24.95 (208pp) ISBN 978-1-59058-069-1

In Pearce's latest entertaining historical (after 2003's The Snake Catcher's Daughter), set in 1908 colonial Egypt, Captain Gareth Owen, aka the Mamur Zapt who heads the British secret police, tackles two problems. Gangs of extortionists have been terrorizing the café owners of Cairo, and the impending visit of a Russian grand duke ignites political unrest that may involve assassination plots. Britain's world standing hangs in the balance. As usual, Pearce masterfully depicts Owen's skills at maneuvering through both the British and the Egyptian bureaucracies, as well as his familiarity with every byway of his adopted city. The author's subtle humor complements the vivid period details. (July 14)