NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERDetective Sergeant Barbara Havers and Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley are forced to confront the past as they try to solve a crime that threatens to tear apart the very fabric of a quiet, historic medieval town in EnglandThe cozy, bucolic town of Ludlow is stunned when one of its most revered and respected citizens–Ian Druitt, the local deacon–is accused of a serious … deacon–is accused of a serious crime. Then, while in police custody, Ian is found dead. Did he kill himself? Or was he murdered?
When Barbara Havers is sent to Ludlow to investigate the chain of events that led to Ian’s death, all the evidence points to suicide. But Barbara can’t shake the feeling that she’s missing something. She decides to take a closer look at the seemingly ordinary inhabitants of Ludlow–mainly elderly retirees and college students–and discovers that almost everyone in town has something to hide.
A masterful work of suspense, The Punishment She Deserves sets Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers and Inspector Thomas Lynley against one of their most intricate cases. Fans of the longtime series will love the many characters from Elizabeth George’s previous novels who join Lynley and Havers, and readers new to the series will quickly see why she is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed writers of our time. Both a page-turner and a deeply complex story about the lies we tell, the lies we believe, and the redemption we need, this novel will be remembered as one of George’s best.
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Elizabeth George is an amazing writer. Interesting until the last word
Elizabeth George doesn’ disappoint. Her books have interesting characters, descriptions, and great plots.
Elizabeth George is one of my favorite authors. Unlike some writers, she just keeps getting better. This might be her best one yet. After waiting a while for her newest book, this one was a little lengthier than most and lasted longer. What a treat.
Not her best. Too many characters, too long.
Like the series
As always, Elizabeth George delivers a thoughtful and nuanced mystery. Enjoy how Havers has developed over the years.
Loved it. Long, but I could have read even more. Elizabeth George at her best.
I’m a fan of Elizabeth George, but surprised by the heft of this book at 695 pages. Each protagonist got their coverage but it seemed like it was rather over long getting there.
I don’t wish to get bogged down by plot, but there is a killing that needs New Scotland Yard’s review & then another review. All this to accomplish a plot line started in a previous book in the series. Lynley & Havers do their best with a vast cast of characters.