Review: Sequel Has Its Moments of Wonderful Writing
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 1, 2013
Having purchased the first book, 'The Cuckoos of Batch Magna', I couldn't wait to purchase the next in the series.  The first book was a 'tour de farce' of warm and humorous literature and I had a difficult time believing that the author could equal, let along top that beginning.  I recommend that new readers buy 'Cuckoos' first to get the lowdown on the continuing characters.  Then you will know what the rave reviews are all about and will be ready to move on to this enjoyable but lesser outing.  It is true that the author repeats some information about the characters and events from the first book in the second.  Often this repetition is extended.  Most readers will not want the 'abridged version' of events so read the first book first!In my review of the first book I noted that the author explores issues of what is enduring and the importance of saving what should endure--along with the equally important task of having a jolly good time day by day.  That subtext does not continue in this outing.  Nor does the book gel so well into a whole work of art.  It is, however, a great deal of fun, taken episode by episode.  This time out we wonder if Sir Humphrey is really cured of his illusions of being a titan of commerce.  Will Phineas Cook, feckless author, be able to control is libido?  (Controlling his alcoholic intake is not likely at all.)  Is the fabled family jewel--the Hawys stone--really a talisman for good luck and does its theft foreshadow the ruin of Batch Hall?  Things do not look good in that regard...but then, they never do.After two quick episodes with Sir Humphrey, including his wedding, the action switches to a farcical, hilarious, extended turn with Phineas as a 'volunteer' punter, helping the estate to make money by offering moonlight cruises with wine and romance.  A badger and her kittens are rescued from the attempts of trespassing evildoers who are trying to dig them up to offer them to some dogs for sport.  The Hawys stone episode is more serious than funny and there is a good bit of suspense and action here.  The story then ends with some news for Sir Humphrey.But the author tacks on a very fine piece of writing, the finest in the book, with his heroic account of the latest inter-village battle/cricket match.  The tension is palpable and one doesn't have to know much about cricket to feel the excitement or the significance that such a simple thing has for the communities involved.  Don't miss this novelette.