'Where is Francis?' By Richard Trahair

Published by The Book Guild,
28 June 2025.
ISBN: 978-1-83574-234-1 (PB)

This book is slightly unusual in that it combines some of the author’s early memories extended into a fantasy world in which crooks use unsavoury methods such as child trafficking and peddling drugs to raise funds for a far-right political movement in the UK.  The Francis referred to in the title is the chief designer for Hoffmann, a shirt manufacturer that produced shirts exclusively for British Home Stores

Francis was a pleasant, well-liked, middle-aged individual, so when he disappeared his colleagues at Hoffmann were worried. Dissatisfied with the police’s efforts to find Francis, Richard, Nicolas Hoffmann, his PA Amanda, Edward, ex-army and now the personnel manager, and his wife Mary, joined forces to search for him.  Following up on an unusual parcel delivery Richard had been asked to make for Hoffmanns, he discovered Francis’ car abandoned, thus increasing their anxiety. The group’s efforts were frowned on by DI Mason who, along with a man in a grey suit told them they were putting themselves in danger - it seems that Edward was probably a member of MI5. Undaunted, the group continued with their investigations. DI Mason’s warning proved to be correct.

Where is Francis is an entertaining, easy to read book. It is rather like an adult version of The Famous Five tales. Although the dangers involved have changed, as has the inclusion of a hint of romance between Richard and Amanda, the tale still involves meetings of the sleuths and carries you into underground rooms and passages as they and the police investigate.  And just in case you’re wondering, there is also a large dog who has his own opinions but keeps them to himself.
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Reviewer: Angela Crowther.

Richard Trahair grew up on the borders of Devon and Cornwall, spending holidays every year at the far end of that peninsula. He has strong farming roots in the area around Cape Cornwall, where his family farmed from c1750 until his enterprising forebears moved on as merchants and manufacturers of foods, notably a baby and toddler rusk that became famous. Richard is a retired chartered surveyor with a BA (Hons) in Textile Management and holder of the Aldhelm Cross from the Bishop of Salisbury. He lives in Salisbury, Wiltshire where he is also the Church organist. This is his second published novel. 

Angela Crowther is a retired scientist.  She has published many scientific papers but, as yet, no crime fiction.  In her spare time Angela belongs to a Handbell Ringing group, goes country dancing and enjoys listening to music, particularly the operas of Verdi and Wagner.