Impact of Evidence

“Her best yet. A classic story with well-concealed and ingenious clues, sufficiently difficult to leave us properly surprised by both the murderer and the method.” – The Spectator
In the Welsh border country, Old Dr. Robinson has met his end in a collision with a jeep on a hazardous junction. When the police arrive, a burning question hints at something murkier than mere accident: why was there a second body—a man not recognised by any locals—in the back of Robinson's car? Chief Inspector Julian Rivers and Inspector Lancing are summoned from Scotland Yard to the windswept wilds, where danger and deceit lie in wait. This rare mystery from the masters of crime fiction's Golden Age returns to print for the first time since its publication in 1954.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 10 February 2024
Publisher: British Library Publishing

“Her best yet. A classic story with well concealed and ingenious clues, sufficiently difficult to leave us properly surprised by both the murderer and the method.”

In the remote Welsh border country, nestled amidst heavy snow and the aftermath of thawing floods, a calamity has unfolded. Old Dr. Robinson, a notorious "menace on the roads," has met his untimely end in a collision with a jeep on a treacherous junction. However, upon the arrival of the police at the scene, a burning question emerges, hinting at something more sinister than a mere accident: why was there a second body, an unidentified man, concealed in the backseat of Robinson's car?

As the local inspectors delve into the murky depths of this peculiar crime, Chief Inspector Julian Rivers and Inspector Lancing are summoned from Scotland Yard to the windswept wilderness, where danger and deceit lurk in every corner. Enigmatic and atmospheric, this exceedingly rare mystery from the Golden Age of crime fiction finds its way back into print for the first time since its initial publication in 1954.

The story unfolds in the picturesque village of St. Brynneys, isolated by the heavy snow and the flooding that followed the thaw. The villagers are left in shock and disbelief as they grapple with the tragic loss of their beloved doctor. However, as the investigation progresses, a series of enigmatic clues begin to unravel, leading the inspectors on a thrilling chase to uncover the truth behind the mysterious double homicide.

One of the key aspects of this mystery is the well-concealed and ingenious clues that litter the narrative. The author skillfully weaves together a web of suspense, leaving the readers guessing until the very end. The clues are carefully placed, each providing a piece of the puzzle that ultimately leads to the revelation of the murderer and the method of their crime.

The characters in the story are well-developed and relatable, adding depth and dimension to the plot. Chief Inspector Rivers, a seasoned investigator with a reputation for his deductive abilities, is partnered with Inspector Lancing, a young and ambitious officer who is eager to prove himself in the field. Their contrasting personalities and approaches to the case create a dynamic duo that is determined to solve the mystery.

As the inspectors delve deeper into the investigation, they encounter a cast of characters that each have their own secrets and motivations. From the enigmatic local handyman to the suspicious landlord of the local pub, each person has something to hide, and the inspectors must navigate through a web of lies and deceit to uncover the truth.

The atmosphere of the story is haunting and atmospheric, with the snow-covered landscapes and the windswept wilds creating a sense of isolation and foreboding. The author expertly weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and intrigue, keeping the readers engaged and on the edge of their seats until the very end.

In conclusion, "The Second Body" is a classic mystery that stands the test of time. With its well-concealed and ingenious clues, sufficient difficulty to leave readers properly surprised by both the murderer and the method, and a captivating atmosphere, this rare gem from the Golden Age of crime fiction is a must-read for fans of the genre. The story's return to print is a testament to the enduring legacy of the author and the timeless appeal of a well-crafted mystery.

Weight: 214g
Dimension: 137 x 190 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780712355254