The main characters of this novel are both police officers: one is a senior female officer with a very privileged background, while the second eschews promotion and is satisfied with his lot, despite his privileged background.The book takes its cue from the machinations within the police of the early 1960s, when policing still adhered to the pro-active principles of the Peel Doctrine: all the minutiae of inter-rank and inter-departmental rivalries are brought to light. The novel covers serious crimes like murder and treason, as well as the rivalries between departments of state and a city and county police force.The solving of crimes is left to the female officer; she has to fight not only criminals but some senior officers who seem to be doing their best to undermine her. On the other hand, there are others who wish to enhance her prospects for high office.Her investigations lead her to an unconventional address where she makes a breakthrough in her enquiries; this also brings a whiff of romance into the novel. Through the convolutions of the final chapters, successes or failures in both police work and romance are revealed.
The author, a former professional mariner, came from a long line of policemen beginning in 1860 and ending in 1954. His introduction into written story-telling came when he was aged 15. At that age he wrote a story about a mystery aboard a yacht. This story achieved a house mark, one of the only two he gained. As the headmaster congratulated him so the author received a severe reprimand from the English master for using the word ‘grub’ instead of the word ‘food’. Notwithstanding the reprimand, the author went on to write non-fiction magazine articles for maritime and in-house publications with books on wartime ships and ship building, 19th century village education and a history of horticulture. This is his first book of fiction.
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2 reviews
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In this well thought out intriguing novel, a strong vein of humour runs through the narrative, as exemplified by the jealousies and rivalries of the police force. A suspected murder starts a chain of enquiry which involves conflict between government departments and the local force. In a surprising twist, the plot includes a most unusual location for undercover work. There is also a romantic element as the two detectives leasing the investigation have a relationship which progresses as the story unfolds.
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This book is written in such a way you feel as the reader that you are in the story due to the detailed and expressive writing of the author. The story follows the main characters through the policing world, adding romance, humour and a very unexpected location for a large part of the story. I look forward to the sequel!
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