First published 1988
James Scotland arrives in the cathedral town of Melchester hoping for a peaceful vacation from his work as a pathologist. The medieval streets and ancient church promise quiet restoration. Instead, Scotland discovers a web of bitter conflicts between church officials, local politicians, and powerful business interests. When a prominent community leader dies suddenly in full public view, Scotland's medical expertise draws him into the investigation. His forensic analysis reveals suspicious circumstances that powerful people want buried. As Scotland digs deeper into the death, he uncovers secret partnerships linking religious authorities with commercial enterprises. The pathologist must navigate dangerous political territory while romantic complications arise unexpectedly. Church mysteries dating back centuries intersect with modern corporate schemes. Scotland realizes the death was no accident, but exposing the truth means challenging influential figures who will stop at nothing to protect their interests. His vacation becomes a fight to reveal what really happened in Melchester before more people die.
Genres: suspense, mystery, crime, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: amateur-detective, fish-out-of-water
Setting: Melchester, Cathedral Town
Period: Medieval, Modern
224 pages · Paperback · Random House UK