Dark Undertakings: The riveting countryside mystery

Jim Lapsford, a 55-year-old man, appears healthy despite having a heart attack. His GP is convinced, but trainee undertaker Drew Slocombe suspects there is enough conflicting medical evidence to merit a coroner's inquest. Jim's personal life includes a long-suffering wife, two sons, and a grieving terrier. Drew has no proof, and Jim's cremation is days away.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2019
Publisher: Allison & Busby

Fifty-five-year-old Jim Lapsford presents an exceptionally youthful and healthy-looking corpse, despite his demise from a heart attack. A lifelong advocate of vitamin pills and herbal remedies, it appears somewhat ironic that he has succumbed to such an ailment. His general practitioner (GP) is confident in this diagnosis, but trainee undertaker Drew Slocombe remains skeptical and believes there is sufficient conflicting medical evidence to warrant a coroner's inquest. Furthermore, Jim's personal life adds complexity to the situation: in addition to a long-suffering wife, two sons, and a grieving terrier, he appears to have left behind a trail of scorned mistresses. While everyone else seems content to accept the doctor's verdict, Drew finds it difficult to ignore the possibility of murder. Despite Jim's apparent death, Drew believes he deserves to have his killer brought to justice. However, he lacks concrete proof and time is running out as Jim's cremation is scheduled in just a few days.

Drew has a multitude of suspects, but without any solid evidence, he finds himself in a challenging predicament. As the cremation date approaches, Drew must confront the moral dilemma of pursuing justice without sufficient proof, potentially risking an innocent man's life. He grapples with the weight of his responsibility to uphold the law and ensure the truth is revealed.

In this intricate and suspenseful story, the reader is taken on a journey through the lives of Jim Lapsford, Drew Slocombe, and the various characters involved. The plot unfolds as Drew investigates the circumstances surrounding Jim's death, unearthing secrets and confronting lies. Along the way, he encounters a cast of characters with their own motivations and agendas, each with their own piece of the puzzle.

The story explores themes of love, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions. It sheds light on the complexities of human relationships and the impact of secrets and lies on individuals and society as a whole. Through the investigation, Drew learns the importance of empathy, integrity, and the pursuit of justice, even in the face of adversity.

The writing style is engaging and atmospheric, drawing the reader into the world of the investigation. The characters are well-developed, with their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations clearly portrayed. The plot is well-paced, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the final resolution.

In conclusion, "The Corpse at the Coroner's Inquest" is a captivating and thought-provoking story that explores the boundaries of justice, morality, and human relationships. It is a testament to the power of investigation, empathy, and the pursuit of truth in the face of adversity. Whether you are a fan of mystery, suspense, or character-driven narratives, this book is sure to captivate and engage you.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780749025618