Shallow Grave

When the wife of a local builder is found murdered, her husband is the natural suspect. After all, her body is found in the bottom of a hole dug at his latest job site. But why do local people differ so sharply in their opinions of her? Most say she’s a promiscuous man-eater who deserved what she got; others paint her as a long-suffering abused wife. Slider and Atherton must first discover the truth about the victim before they can uncover the truth about her death. Their search is an engrossing trip through the psyches of a small community. Rapid pacing, sharp dialogue, strong storyline and confident writing style should delight lovers of British procedurals on both sides of the Atlantic.

BOOK WORLD

Although the milieu seems light years away from the edgy chaos of the city, the quiet-desperation crowd proves itself capable of its own brand of nasty behaviour. Harrod-Eagles’s ability to plumb the pathos from the depths of daily life remains razor sharp.

BOOKLIST

Complex and sophisticated. The puzzle and the people are intriguing, and the denouement compelling, making another winner for this outstanding writer.

KIRKUS REVIEWS

Yet again Ms Harrod-Eagles hits the bullseye with her concoction of mystery and humour. Highly recommended.

IRISH TIMES

Time spent in the company of this literate crew is always worthwhile.

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY