cover image A Cool Killing

A Cool Killing

Stephen Murray. St. Martin's Press, $13.95 (199pp) ISBN 978-0-312-01406-3

When the body of Dr. Geoffrey Swainson, consulting blood specialist, is found in a mortuary drawer at Ovenden Hospital, the police investigate. When it's determined he was still alive when placed there, police inspector Alec Stainton receives his first opportunity to supervise a murder investigation. There is no shortage of suspectsthe doctor was not liked by his colleagues and had a reputation as a womanizerbut evidence is slow to accumulate. Among those with motives are his neglected wife, Dr. Angela Carter; former mistresses, among them a young doctor and the hospital secretary; and a subordinate who feels he should have Swainson's job. Stainton is aided by Jayne Simmonds, an appealing and astute young policewoman. His superintendent doesn't trust him, but he has the backing of the assistant chief constable in this case, which could make the young inspector's career. At home, he has troubles with his love life. While the denouement may be a little too abrupt, this British debut makes a nice addition to the ranks of police procedurals. One hopes to see more of Inspector Stainton. (March)