The Plague Maiden

When a letter arrives at Tradmouth police station claiming that the man convicted of murdering the Vicar of Belsham during the course of a robbery in 1991 is innocent, it causes quite a stir.  DI Wesley Peterson, however, already has his hands full when threats are made to local supermarket chain, Huntings, and the last thing he needs is an alleged miscarriage of justice to investigate.  But, with political pressure from above, it seems that he has no choice.

Meanwhile archaeologist Neil Watson is surprised to uncover a medieval plague pit at a site near Belsham church earmarked for Huntings' new superstore.   And when Neil is attacked, it seems that someone is willing to use violence to ensure that the plague pit keeps its secrets.

As Wesley's investigations continue, he begins to suspect that the vicar's murder, the disappearance of a former Sunday school teacher and the threats to the supermarket my be linked in some way.  Then comes the disturbing discovery that the ancient plague pit is home to a more recent resident...

Reviews

"Ellis weaves a compelling take of murder, mystery, archaeology and greed." The Good Book Guide

"This is a gripping read that kept me guessing to the end." Best Magazine

"A pleaser for fans of the traditional English mystery." - Manchester Evening News.

"In the skilled hands of Kate Ellis, the reader is kept in suspense right until the final surprise ending."  Mystery Women

"An increasingly impressive series.  Ellis excels herself with an ingenious confection that had me guessing right to the end.  With plotting elaborate enough to satisfy the most demanding aficionado of the traditional whodunit, she takes care not to neglect characterisation with very satisfying results.  A thoroughly enjoyable novel."  Tangled Web

"Kate Ellis is sublime in the way in which she manages to keep all the various strands together right up until the astonishing ending.  Outstanding, first-rate series."  Shots Magazine

First published 2004 by Piatkus

Hardback ISBN 978-0749906689
Paperback ISBN 978-0749934613

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