A Day in the Death of Dorothea Cassidy

In this gripping mystery, Inspector Stephen Ramsey investigates the murder of Dorothea Cassidy, uncovering secrets that lie within a seemingly peaceful community.

In this Pan Heritage Classics edition of A Day in the Death of Dorothea Cassidy, Inspector Stephen Ramsey investigates the murder of Dorothea Cassidy, a cherished figure in the small town of Otterbridge. Known for her kindness and dedication as a vicar's wife, Dorothea's life takes a tragic turn when she is found strangled on a seemingly ordinary Thursday. This day, which was meant to be a personal retreat for her, becomes the focal point of a chilling crime that shakes the community to its core.

As the summer carnival approaches, Inspector Ramsey meticulously reconstructs Dorothea's final hours. He uncovers a web of connections with various townsfolk who had sought her help: a lonely elderly woman, a troubled teenager, a compulsive gambler, and a mother entangled with a violent partner. Each of these characters harbors their own secrets, and as Ramsey delves deeper, he realizes that Dorothea's compassion may have made her a target. The investigation reveals the complexities of human relationships and the hidden struggles faced by those in the community.

The tension escalates when a second body is discovered, forcing Ramsey to confront the darker sides of Otterbridge. With the carnival festivities unfolding against a backdrop of dread, the inspector races against time to solve the case. In A Day in the Death of Dorothea Cassidy, Ann Cleeves masterfully intertwines suspense with poignant character studies, leading to a gripping conclusion that unveils the truth behind Dorothea's tragic fate.