Agatha’s First Case

At twenty-six years old, Agatha Raisin has already come a long way. Born in a Birmingham slum, she has worked tirelessly to reinvent herself. She has shed her Birmingham accent, escaped a drunken husband, and secured a position as a secretary at a public relations firm.

Then her boss gives her an unusual assignment: deliver a message to Sir Bryce Teller informing him that he is about to be arrested for the murder of his wife—and that the agency no longer wishes to represent him.

Instead of dismissing her, Teller is impressed by Agatha’s determination and spirit. He offers her the opportunity to handle his public relations, complete with her own office and staff.

Agatha quickly realizes that the best way to help her first client is to uncover the truth behind his wife’s murder and clear his name. Armed with sharp instincts, relentless determination, and plenty of nerve, she sets out to solve the case herself.

This brand-new short story from New York Times bestselling author M. C. Beaton takes readers back to the very beginning of Agatha Raisin’s career and reveals the mystery that started it all.