The Crow Trap

In The Crow Trap, Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope investigates a series of mysterious deaths linked to three women with hidden secrets.

In The Crow Trap, the first installment of Ann Cleeves' Vera Stanhope series, readers are introduced to a captivating detective and a web of secrets. Set against the backdrop of the North Pennines, three women gather at an isolated cottage to conduct an environmental survey. Each woman carries her own burdens and hidden truths, making for a tense and intriguing atmosphere. Rachael, the team leader, grapples with the fallout from a personal betrayal, while botanist Anne has her own motives for being there. Grace, the quietest of the trio, harbors mysteries that could change everything.

As Rachael arrives at the cottage, she is confronted with an unexpected tragedy: the apparent suicide of a local woman. The tension escalates when another death occurs, prompting the arrival of Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope. Known for her unorthodox methods and keen intuition, Vera must navigate the complex relationships among the women to uncover the truth. With each revelation, the layers of deception peel away, revealing the darker aspects of human nature.

The Crow Trap not only sets the stage for a thrilling mystery but also explores themes of betrayal, friendship, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. As Vera delves deeper into the lives of these women, readers are left on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how the story unfolds.