In this solid cozy procedural, set in the quaint Gloucestershire village of Tolland, British author Davies (Let Heaven Fall) introduces Detective Inspector Tyrell, whose youth, good looks and keen deductive ability have earned him quick promotion and the hostility of his colleagues, especially his superior, Detective Chief Inspector Whittaker, who takes a personal pleasure in making his life miserable. While digging a ditch, a local man uncovers the corpse of an American soldier, Ben Gordheimer, buried in a bomb crater on the eve of D-Day. A deserter, Gordheimer was killed by a shotgun blast. Can there be anyone alive who still remembers him? There were many American troops in the area then, in addition to "land girls"—young women who volunteered to work the farms when manpower was low. Tyrell suspects Gordheimer's murder was the work of a jealous lover. But Tolland doesn't give up its secrets easily. The discovery of two more recent bodies, pointing to a killer still at large, puts everyone's nerves on edge. Unfortunately, a plodding investigation, the locals' interminable chatter and, worst of all, Tyrell's preachy self-righteousness make for heavy going in places. Davies is a more than competent writer, however, especially good at forensic detail, and is capable of some nice imaginative touches. Those who go for darker English cozies should be satisfied. (Nov.)
