The Moth Catcher by Ann Cleeves
This was my first Cleeves novel which was the pick by the Library reading group. Having never watched any of the Vera TV drama series I had no preconceptions what to expect. However, I surprised myself by how much I got into this book, the enticing plot with its twists and turns and good mix of characters.
The story is set in the Valley Farm, in Northumberland, a young man has been found murdered on the side of the road, and in his apartment in a big country house, is another dead body, it turns out the only common interest connecting them is the study of moths hence the title 'The Moth Catcher'. There are plenty of suspects and among them three couples all retired living in the area who seem to have perfect indulgent lives, they call themselves the 'Retired Hedonists'. When the plot begins to unravel they are all hiding something adding to the build-up of tension as each of their secrets begin to emerge.
When overweight, food-loving, messy DI Vera Stanhope arrives on the scene, I found her intuitive, simplistic approach to detective work in uncovering the clues all very enjoyable. Her team Joe and Holly, I got enthralled in their character traits and personalities, getting into their lives away from the job and how Vera interacts individually with them with her skilful ability to get the best out of them kept me hooked.
This is a classic who did it that keeps you gripped until the end!
Submitted by Louise
