The Apple Eaters: A Jimmy Sung Mystery.

E. Jane Philipps is the science librarian in the Biology Library at
Queen’s University.

The Apple Eaters marks the debut of Jimmy Sung, former whiz kid, failed
lawyer, and novice private investigator. Set in Vancouver, Langford’s
cleverly drafted first mystery possesses an intriguing plot and a small,
well-drawn, and entertaining cast of characters. Discontented and
“seriously bored,” Jimmy lives in the bosom of a close and doting
family, conducting his “dreary legal practice” from a shabby office
over his mother’s Chinatown produce store, spending endless hours
contemplating his past, his present, and his apparently unpromising
future. His life changes dramatically and irrevocably when a rich,
beautiful, and emotionally unbalanced schoolgirl hires him to
investigate the alleged suicide of her older brother. As Jimmy delves
inexpertly and occasionally ineptly into the lives of his client and her
brother, he draws the reader with him into the heart of the mystery and
its chilling conclusion. Langford’s deft handling of dialogue and
description, combined with subtle social commentary, irony, and a wry
wit, produce a readable novel that should have broad appeal.