Final Act: A Lambert and Hook Police Procedural

The 29th entry in British author Gregson’s police series featuring Det. Chief Supt. John Lambert and Det. Sgt. Bert Hook (after 2015’s Skeleton Plot) feels like a reunion with old friends—new place, new crime, but comfortable as a cozy tea party. Sam Jackson, the ill-tempered and vindictive producer of a popular TV detective show, looks to old-time Hollywood film producer Samuel Goldwyn of MGM as his role model. While the show’s stars and crew are on location in Herefordshire, someone strangles Sam with his own necktie in his caravan. When Lambert and Hook interview persons of interest, it appears that all have a motive, most have the means, and just as many had the opportunity. Gregson lets his sharply drawn ancillary characters carry the weight of the plot, as one by one their theatrically crafted facades begin to break down and the real killer is exposed. Fans can trust Gregson’s attention to detail to win the day. (Sept.)