Mortal Men — J.J. Salkeld

In the seventh novel in the acclaimed Lakeland Murders series newly promoted DI Jane Francis is faced with a crime that's both baffling and brutal. A farm worker has been shot dead in his Troutbeck cottage, and while there's an absence of witnesses there's a surfeit of suspects. Was the victim killed because of current criminal connections, or are the clues all in his past?

The rest of the team are busy too. Superintendent Andy Hall is struggling to keep ahead above the murky political waters of Cumbria Constabulary's HQ, while DC Keith Iredale investigates a spate of distraction burglaries perpetrated by a young woman on some of Kendal's oldest residents.

Mortal Men is the most bittersweet of the Lakeland Murders series to date, exploring themes of love and loss against the background of the timeless beauty of England's Lake District. And readers have certainly enjoyed earlier novels in the series:

'I really love all these books and have now read them all. I would say not to miss any of his books they are just so absorbing to read and so realistic. Just brilliant.'

'I live in Kendal in the Lake District and It is fun to recognise the places mentioned in the stories. I love the characters and the story lines. Brilliant as far as I am concerned.'

' I am glad that Jane is not going to become the 'little wife'.... Can't wait for the next one.'