[Detective Murdoch 03] • Konstáblova smrt

Maureen Jennings's first two novels have wowed readers and reviewers alike for their vivid portrayal of Toronto at the turn of the twentieth century. Many have been impressed by Jennings's detailed understanding of the social structure at the time, while others are impressed by the fully drawn characters.

In this third adventure featuring the lovable Detective William Murdoch, he becomes involved with the death of Constable Oliver Wicken - a man who was the sole support of his mother and invalid sister. In spite of the hardship his death will cause, it appears that he has committed suicide. The evidence according to the coroner is irrefutable. He was shot in the temple with his own revolver and a farewell note is found beside his body. At the inquest, a young woman testifies that she was secretly engaged to Wicken but she had broken off the engagement that very night. The case is closed, verdict: death by his own hand.

Unexpectedly, more evidence is revealed and Detective Murdoch is asked to investigate further. His inquiries take him far afield and he begins to suspect that the Eakin family, whose house adjoins the one where Wicken died, is more involved with the case than they admit. Murdoch witnesses the young Mrs. Eakin, the third wife of the elderly Nathaniel, being committed to the Provincial Lunatic Asylum. Is she indeed insane, as the family says she is, or has she been deliberately driven to the brink of insanity for wicked reasons? Murdoch, of necessity, is obliged to question her about the constable's death. This interview has dire consequences that force the investigation to its tragic conclusion.

Whether describing a tooth extraction, the unquestioning prejudice toward the few Chinese immigrants, or the well-intentioned, but bizarre, treatment of mentally ill women, Maureen Jennings once again brings the period vividly to life.

Author Biography: Maureen Jennings' first novel, Except the Dying , received a certificate of commendation from Heritage Toronto. It was also nominated for an Anthony Award and the Crime Writers of Canada Arthur Ellis Award for best first novel. She lives in Toronto with her husband.