R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on 6/19/2021 + 1438 more book reviews

Edith Pargeter has written wonderful mysteries under the pen name Ellis Peters. This one features a British policeman named George Felse. The novel follows Felse's son, Dominic, who is fascinated by his father's police work. Discovering a body, he wants to help his father identify the murderer or even find the culprit himself. The deceased is a former German prisoner of war who has decided to stay in Britain. The murdered man, Eddie Haskell, is hated by many so there are many suspects.

As the case unfolds a respected teacher, Chad Wedderburn a war hero who killed many, becomes the chief suspect. Dominic doesn't believe this peaceful man could murder anyone. Indeed, he discourages violence of any kind among his students. Consequently, Dominic sets out to investigate on his own to help his father solve the case and prove Wedderburn âs innocence. Because of the danger, George, doesn't want Dominic's help but the boy goes ahead anyway. With a second murder, the village people focus more on Wedderburn. Fortunately, George and his son arrive at the same conclusion at the same time although itâs a harrowing experience for Dominic who traps the killer who tries to kill him.

The author delves into the trauma of post WWII and how it affects people at home and in the front lines. Obviously, this changes how they see murder, focusing on skills exhibited by Wedderburn as he served. That experience changed him to a man who abhors violence of any kind. and, the author does a wonderful job with the characters, the plot and telling the story. Very nice read!

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