The Milk Tart Murders

Author: Sally Andrew
Publisher: Umuzi
Reviewer: Beryl Eichenberger
​Chomping away on the delicious grapefruit and chocolate fudge that arrived with my review book of ‘The Milk Tart Murders’, fourth in the Tannie Maria series, I reflected on the enormous success of Sally Andrew’s character.  And for the uninitiated… 

(seriously?) Tannie Maria is the 50 plus Karoo agony aunt and foodie of note residing in the small town of Ladismith on Route 62. ‘ Journey to the unexpected’ say the ads for this spectacular route and Andrew does huge justice to this part of the country and its folk as she describes the  vistas from Maria’s front stoep, her little cottage, her hens and her wisdom. Coupled with these mysteries, one can feel the specialness that lurks in this part of the world.
This is yet  another book ready to be gobbled up! You’ll meet some old friends from previous stories, some delicious new characters and recipes, the plot will have you biting not only your fingernails, but the Milk Tart that simply has to accompany your reading pleasure. (Recipes at the back of the book.)
Tannie Maria is a down to earth country woman - someone whom all of us relate to. Not particularly glamorous – wearer of veldskoens and practical outfits, she is the tannie using food as a salve to all ills alongside her very practical advice. And a damn fine amateur sleuth – a sort of Karoo Miss Marple!
So what could Milk Tart and Marilyn Monroe possibly have in common? Both take centre stage in this delectable romp and what a journey. It all starts with the special showing of the vintage “Some Like it Hot’ – at Oom Frik’s Fantastique , whose owner is  a long-time fan of the beautiful MM. When Oom Frik is found dead on the scene it seems like his old heart gave out but did it? Grumpy old man that he was, frequently changing his will with the promise of treasure in his earthly belongings, the question is - who’s getting it? And the vultures are circling! When a second body turns up with a note requesting Tannie Maria’s Milk Tart recipe and advice, it’s up to our amateur detectives Maria and journalist colleague Jessica to unravel the mystery. Digging deep they enter dangerous territory with some heart stopping moments! Maria’s relationship with policeman boyfriend Henk is taking strain and there’s lots of misunderstandings – mostly concerning food, and trust, so she’s having to look at herself – and perhaps take her own advice. The wonderfully quirky trail embraces a children’s home, unrequited love, mad aunties, tempting Karoo Zoo biscuits for loosening tongues plus a good supply of marmalade rusks for the intrepid amateur detectives.
I applaud Sally Andrew for her wonderful renditions of South African characters. She has them down to a T – lovingly drawn in a voice that takes you into a community and the endearing and sometimes maddening members.
There is no doubt that Andrew has her heart in the environment, it is evident in every description.  We hold our breath, we laugh with the characters, we taste the food. There is an infectious humour that is as uplifting as the tasty, healing recipes that go along with her advice. I mean who would write a letter to an agony aunt about their pet goat Mildred? And when Tannie Maria responds with wisdom and empathy well, what else would you expect? Uplifting and heart -warming it’s a celebration of life and love. Simply charming with a good dollop of home cooked wisdom Maria will become part of your family.