Wilkinson, Charles - The Harmony Of The Stares

A strong grouping of musically themed works.

During a local recital, Philippa notices her pianist is not the usual Nigel. The replacement, a somewhat furtive sort, is intense and perhaps better suited to her voice. Tracking him down, however, proves difficult in “The True Accompanist”.

Amersham, the second oboist, is delighted to learn he will solo in the premier of a newly composed work. Pity that the first-chair oboist disappeared like that. In “The Oboists” – well – no cause in airing unpleasantness here.

Rules, restrictions, obligations. The bane of neighborhood associations and villages. And for individualistic souls who forego norms, there are always reprisals. “The Festival Of Conformity” makes one wonder why Trevidge ever moved to the village in the first place.

After he disposed of his manservant, Windrell had to deal with the inquisitive neighbors. As well as the flooding, the rising river levels that keep forcing locals onto his higher ground. What comes “Walking In From The West” adds to his anxiety. This story features a touch of SciFi.

For me, most of these stories are more accessible than previous Wilkinson I have read. Could be I am simply grasping him better.