After the discovery of Edward Miller’s lifeless body in his residence, a prominent member of the Ashwood social circle, the once-thriving society is thrown into turmoil. Adding to the intrigue, Edward’s estranged wife, Alicia Miller, returns to the scene amid whispers, conjecture, and relentless media scrutiny fueled by their ongoing divorce proceedings. While the police diligently pursue their investigation, a sudden suicide raises suspicions, potentially sabotaging any hope of a successful resolution. In this volatile environment, it falls upon the intelligent and determined Sarah Payne to untangle the web of deception, seek justice, and uncover truths that will shatter her faith in both the concept itself and the people she believed she knew.

Robert Brighton’s A Murder in Ashwood is a meticulously crafted mystery notable for its well-crafted narrative. While it serves as a sequel, it functions seamlessly as a standalone novel, requiring no prior knowledge of the series. Brighton’s prose is lucid, focused, and, at times, vividly descriptive. The story eschews unnecessary filler, placing a heavy emphasis on natural and engaging dialogue. Characters behave convincingly and realistically, reflecting Brighton’s thorough research into the societal norms and behaviors of the chosen period. The result is a remarkable historical mystery that defies conventional expectations.

The heart of the mystery in this novel is less about identifying the perpetrator, as the identity becomes apparent early on. However, this revelation doesn’t diminish the tension but instead shifts the focus onto the journey rather than the destination. How did the murderer execute their plan? How many allies were involved? Can truth and justice prevail against an orchestrated web of corruption and oppressive authority? These are the mysteries that our protagonists must unravel, and their ultimate triumph remains uncertain. As they inch closer to the truth, they begin to question the very values that initially drove them to seek justice, leaving readers to ponder their fate with bated breath.

Pages: 534 | ASIN : B0C7H3NHLN