This is the fourth in a well-written mystery series by British author Susan Hill. The series is apparently quite popular in England, but relatively unknown here in the US. That's truly unfortunate, because the series is several cuts above the run-of-the-mill mysteries so often seen. Well-plotted, with lots of twists, turns and red herrings, the characterization is also that of a true writer. If you haven't yet discovered the Simon Serrailler mysteries, I'd encourage you to start with the first of them, "The Various Haunts of Men." The character development is stellar, and best enjoyed in order.
I keep reading the Simon S. murder mystery series only to find out what happens to him (especially in his relationships with women)---even though he is not a likable character. (By the way, I feel just the same about Downton Abbey, a greatly overrated TV series that luckily comes to an end this winter.)
Anyway, this fourth installment in the series is much shorter than the earlier volumes, as if the author couldn't wait to get rid of it. The plot developments show a streak of gratuitous cruelty in the author that reminds me somewhat of Joanna Trollope.
I do wonder whether Simon's relationship with Cat might be heading toward incest.
Anyway, this fourth installment in the series is much shorter than the earlier volumes, as if the author couldn't wait to get rid of it. The plot developments show a streak of gratuitous cruelty in the author that reminds me somewhat of Joanna Trollope.
I do wonder whether Simon's relationship with Cat might be heading toward incest.
