The Wrong Rite: A Madoc and Janet Rhys Mystery

The fifth Jenny and Madoc Rhys mystery ( An Owl Too Many ) finds the appealing young Canadians and their baby daughter in Wales for great-uncle Sir Cardoc Rhys's 90th birthday. The clan has gathered, and renowned musicians, a well-known author, an actress and two aging sorcerers are among the celebrants. Feasting begins in the huge old kitchen with Welsh cakes and trifle, moves to the barn with a mammoth birthday banquet, is followed by revelry in the meadow--poetry and folk singing, harps and violins, and, at dusk, the piece de resistance: leaping the Beltane fire. All is described in such delicious detail that it's a distinct letdown when sudden death terminates the festivities. Royal Canadian Mounted Police inspector Madoc, asked to join the inquiry, untangles diverse strands--an old murder, a ram decapitation, jewel theft, blackmail and even prostitution--to reach a fairly predictable solution. But if the investigation lacks thrills, the portrayal of old Welsh customs and engaging family eccentrics is delightful. (Jan.)