?SUGAR and Spice? is David Mudd?s 24th book, and, he says, his last. It is a collection of witty, amusing short stories, several with strong West Country connections ? one is actually set in Tavistock and one in a particularly unpleasant storm on Dartmoor. David Mudd?s varied career has included, among other things, managing a London ballroom in the Teddy Boy era, working with a travelling theatre, life in the merchant navy and 22 years in politics, giving a wide background of experience to colour his work. The subject matter of the different stories is equally versatile. The characters are interesting and well-defined; the style varying with the story, but always racy and readable; the plots often with a surprising twist at the end. An entertaining read. Sugar and Spice is published by Retreat Publications,The Retreat, Down Park Drive, Tavistock, price £7.99. JACQUI FOGWILL