Deadly Waters, Inspector Andy Hoton (2)

A woman found brutally murdered on the Mulberry in Langstone Harbour

A note on the body "Have you forgotten ME?"

Horton has only a week to find a killer...

"Rowson adds an appealing hero to the British Police Procedural ranks." Kirkus Reviews (USA)

When a woman, the head teacher of a struggling local school, is found brutally murdered in Langstone Harbour DI Andy Horton is appointed to lead the investigation – but not for long if Superintendent Uckfield has his way. Horton is given only a week to find the killer, after that he will be shunted off the case. Horton now has a point to prove as well as a complex murder case to solve. A note was found on the victim – Have you forgotten ME? – along with money wrapped up in a five-pound note and smothered with honey. Is there a clue in ‘The Owl and the Pussy-cat’ rhyme? Is it simply a senseless murder by an unhinged killer or does someone close to the head have a motive for murder?

As Horton delves deeper into the investigation, aided by Sergeant Cantelli, the tension mounts. With the clock ticking Horton is soon forced to take a decision that will put his life on the line . . .

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of the sea in the Solent area of Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight on the South Coast of England.

Inspector Andy Horton

Inspector Andy Horton is a flawed and rugged cop, instinctive, tough and resilient, but deeply empathetic. A man very much defined by a tormented past, but with hopes for his future. Living on board his small yacht in Southsea Marina since his estrangement from his wife, the sailing detective is a man rarely at peace, unless he is on the sea. When fighting crime he is prepared to take risks and is fearless in his search for justice. He's been raised in children's homes and foster homes after his mother abandoned him as a child. He has a desperate need to belong and yet is always on the outside. Being alone is his greatest fear, yet he is alone.

Compelling, multi-layered, gripping, a great read for mystery lovers.

The DI Andy Horton books in order

Reviews

'Having spent many years as a professional crime fighter, I fought shy of reading crime fiction until I set eyes on Paulines' excellent books. If you haven't read any of her books - do so now. You will never look back!' Gordon D. S Maddocks Former Assistant Chief Constable (Devon and Cornwall Constabulary)

'Deadly Waters will have you sitting on the edge of your seat right to the last page, I could not put it down.' Bob Hornby