Chemistry of Death by
Simon Beckett
pbk out March 06
(Bantam)
at £10.99
David Hunter has moved away from London, leaving his tragic past behind, for a quiet life working as a GP in rural Norfolk. But when a local woman is found killed, and the detective investigating learns that Hunter has a formidable reputation as a forensic anthropologist, he is pressured into assisting the police. The disappearance of a second woman signals the presence of a serial killer. The knowledge that a murderer is living in their midst creates panic among the villagers and leads to more blood spilt. A tense and thrilling story from Beckett. The first person narrative, recounted by Hunter, is laden with premonition and the bitter taste of hindsight. The work of the forensic specialist – his knowledge of corporeal decay and post-mortem insect activity is fascinating fodder for those not easily disturbed.
(
Cath Staincliffe
author of the popular Sal Kilkenny mysteries and the series creator of TV Blue Murder)