Teenager Lewis Hoxworthy discovers a disturbing painting in a medieval barn; a discovery which excites archaeologist Neil Watson who is excavating the remains of an ancient manor house nearby. But when former rock star Jonny Shellmer is found shot through the head in Lewis's father's field and Lewis himself goes missing after contacting a man on the internet, Detective Inspector Wesley Peterson and his boss, Gerry Heffernan face one of their most intriguing cases yet.

It seems that the picturesque Devon village of Derenham is not only full of resident celebrities seeking their share of rural peace and quiet, but full of dark secrets, ancient and modern. Lewis's distraught parents seem to have something to hide. Then the mysterious owner of a New Age shop is silenced before she can reveal what she knows about Jonny Shellmer's past. Is Jonny's death linked to Lewis's disappearance? And does Jonny's best known song, 'Angel' contain a clue?

As Neil Watson uncovers the story of Derenham's medieval past, it becomes clear that the Derenham Doom - a painted portrayal of hell and judgement more than half a millennium old - holds the key to the mystery. And as events reach a terrifying climax, Wesley Peterson has to act swiftly if he is to save a young life.

Listen to the song from the book, 'Angel' as an MP3

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Lyrics

(©2002 - Words: Kate Ellis. Music: Dan Westwood)

Reviews

"Star author. Unputdownable." The Bookseller

"Full marks for combining an easy read with a clever and complex plot. Brilliant. The writing and plotting are as tight as anything that came out of Hollywood. Ellis's readers wait impatiently for the next instalment." Mystery Women

"(A Painted Doom) more than matches the quality of its predecessors and seems sure to strengthen (the author's) reputation yet further. A satisfying and enjoyable read." Tangled Web

"Intruguing crime writing with a foot in the past." South Wales Argus

"A terrifying mix of past horrors and modern day murder that will have you shaking under the duvet." Mystery and Thriller Guild