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Ryder & Loveday Mystery #8
A Fatal End
In a backstreet club, people dance the night away to their favourite band. But behind the scenes there is trouble afoot. An argument is brewing between bandmembers, two possessive girlfriends have plans for their partners, the club manager is creaming off profits – and a tragic accident leaves the lead singer dead.
But was it an accident at all? Coroner Clement Ryder is suspicious, and WPC Trudy Loveday knows there’s only one thing for it. She’s going undercover, deep into the seedy underbelly of Oxford nightlife.
Meanwhile Clement’s own secret is becoming increasingly difficult to keep hidden, and discovering the singer’s murderer might not be the only shock in store for Trudy…
But was it an accident at all? Coroner Clement Ryder is suspicious, and WPC Trudy Loveday knows there’s only one thing for it. She’s going undercover, deep into the seedy underbelly of Oxford nightlife.
Meanwhile Clement’s own secret is becoming increasingly difficult to keep hidden, and discovering the singer’s murderer might not be the only shock in store for Trudy…
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2022
855 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Faith Martin
97 books974 followersFaith Martin is a pen name of English author Jacquie Walton, who is best known for her popular detective series, starring Detective Inspector Hillary Greene.
As Joyce Cato, she writes more classically-inspired 'cosy' murder mysteries, such as the Monica Noble mystery series.
As Maxine Barry, her latest romance novels are now available from Corazon Books.
As Jessie Daniels, her 'spooky' crime novel, The Lavender Lady Casefile came out in November 2017.
As Joyce Cato, she writes more classically-inspired 'cosy' murder mysteries, such as the Monica Noble mystery series.
As Maxine Barry, her latest romance novels are now available from Corazon Books.
As Jessie Daniels, her 'spooky' crime novel, The Lavender Lady Casefile came out in November 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
February 19, 2023
Set in Oxford in the 1960s, this is the eighth book in the series featuring WPC Trudy Loveday and her mentor city coroner Dr Clement Ryder. When a young singer in a band, starting to be noticed, is found dead on the stairs of a seedy nightclub, Ryder suspects it was no accident and he and Trudy, aided by Ryder’s son Vincent, set out to investigate those who were there at the club that night. Suspects include the shady manager, a slimy music agent trying to sign the band, teenage fans and other members of the band and their girlfriends. Told from multiple viewpoints, there is more than one secret to be revealed before good old fashioned police work uncovers the motive and identity of the killer. This is a very engaging mystery set at an interesting time before the internet and modern forensics changed policing. With Clement facing a major change in the future, it will be interesting to see how this is handled in the next book.
With thanks to HQ Digital and Netgalley for a copy to read
With thanks to HQ Digital and Netgalley for a copy to read
June 10, 2022
Many thanks to NetGalley and HQ Digital for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review A Fatal End. All opinions and comments are my own.
The time is marked out for us very neatly from the beginning -- Oxford, 1963. The time of The Beatles. But that wasn’t what was attractive anymore. It was the darker stuff that the kids wanted, and they knew the places to get it. Where you could drink, and nobody cared that you were underage. And at one of those places a group called the Rainbirds is heading for the big time. The lead singer (he thinks of himself that way) is determined to get there, and there’s a London agent sniffing around. But somebody’s holding out. The book coyly doesn’t say who that someone is. And during the course of the evening, while the guitars are riffing and the drinks are being drunk, that same singer goes to the great gig in the sky (apologies to Pink Floyd). So A Fatal End, the eighth in the series of books featuring Coroner Dr. Clement Ryder and WPC (Probationary) Trudy Loveday tells us.
Only, the inquest says it’s an accidental death. But Dr. Ryder isn’t so sure. Good thing, for our purposes. He tells Inspector Jennings that he’s not satisfied, and asks for Trudy’s assistance. We even get the help of Vincent Ryder, Dr. Ryder’s son (who really does appreciate that Trudy is around and about again). And another terrific investigation begins, one that fans of the series have come to know will be thorough, and exhaustive. But this one will be a wee bit different. Because Dr. Ryder knows that he cannot go on. His symptoms are getting worse.
Our characters come alive; some shady, some holding back information. People who know more than is good for them. Girlfriends who want a lot for their men, and themselves. We get bits and pieces from a whole lot of people, a bunch of different points of view. Ryder thinks that Trudy seems a little different in this one, too, harder, more cynical. Police work will do that to you. My only regret -- Duncan Gillingham, the sleazy reporter rears his ugly head in this one in this one. Can always do without him in the story.
What’s the motive? The key to everything, it seems. There’s a lot of little teasers in this one, Lots of secrets, and machinations. Ah, the lure of success! What one will do for it! And what it leads to; someone who will do anything to get what they want.
We have a finish, rather an exciting one, albeit with tragic overtones. Dr. Ryder and Trudy have a meeting and he tells her everything. And along the way he’s made some decisions, too.
Trudy’s career is looking up. The Chief Super adds his praise, and even gives Inspector Jennings his due for knowing a good copper when he sees one. Trudy will take that any day. Alas, Vincent goes home after his visit, without any resolution of his feelings. That’s why I can’t see this as a “finish.” Dr. Ryder will figure out some way to continue investigating, and Trudy will figure out a way to help. I’m hoping, anyway.
The time is marked out for us very neatly from the beginning -- Oxford, 1963. The time of The Beatles. But that wasn’t what was attractive anymore. It was the darker stuff that the kids wanted, and they knew the places to get it. Where you could drink, and nobody cared that you were underage. And at one of those places a group called the Rainbirds is heading for the big time. The lead singer (he thinks of himself that way) is determined to get there, and there’s a London agent sniffing around. But somebody’s holding out. The book coyly doesn’t say who that someone is. And during the course of the evening, while the guitars are riffing and the drinks are being drunk, that same singer goes to the great gig in the sky (apologies to Pink Floyd). So A Fatal End, the eighth in the series of books featuring Coroner Dr. Clement Ryder and WPC (Probationary) Trudy Loveday tells us.
Only, the inquest says it’s an accidental death. But Dr. Ryder isn’t so sure. Good thing, for our purposes. He tells Inspector Jennings that he’s not satisfied, and asks for Trudy’s assistance. We even get the help of Vincent Ryder, Dr. Ryder’s son (who really does appreciate that Trudy is around and about again). And another terrific investigation begins, one that fans of the series have come to know will be thorough, and exhaustive. But this one will be a wee bit different. Because Dr. Ryder knows that he cannot go on. His symptoms are getting worse.
Our characters come alive; some shady, some holding back information. People who know more than is good for them. Girlfriends who want a lot for their men, and themselves. We get bits and pieces from a whole lot of people, a bunch of different points of view. Ryder thinks that Trudy seems a little different in this one, too, harder, more cynical. Police work will do that to you. My only regret -- Duncan Gillingham, the sleazy reporter rears his ugly head in this one in this one. Can always do without him in the story.
What’s the motive? The key to everything, it seems. There’s a lot of little teasers in this one, Lots of secrets, and machinations. Ah, the lure of success! What one will do for it! And what it leads to; someone who will do anything to get what they want.
We have a finish, rather an exciting one, albeit with tragic overtones. Dr. Ryder and Trudy have a meeting and he tells her everything. And along the way he’s made some decisions, too.
Trudy’s career is looking up. The Chief Super adds his praise, and even gives Inspector Jennings his due for knowing a good copper when he sees one. Trudy will take that any day. Alas, Vincent goes home after his visit, without any resolution of his feelings. That’s why I can’t see this as a “finish.” Dr. Ryder will figure out some way to continue investigating, and Trudy will figure out a way to help. I’m hoping, anyway.
May 23, 2022
My thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for an advanced copy for review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own
This is the eighth in the series, set in the 1960’s, with WPC Trudy Loveday and the coroner Clement Ryder. Another great mystery, set amongst the back street clubs of the early sixties. Where the lead singer of a rising group is found dead. Was it a tragic accident or murder? Once again Ryder and Loveday are joined by Dr Ryder’s son, who is a great addition to the team. There are many suspects, each with their own agenda. See if you can work out which one it was?
Setting the series in the sixties, works well and shows how good old fashioned detective work, is used without all the modern databases, mobiles, and social media etc. Once again this is a fast paced, engaging mystery. I love the characters and how they interact. Looking forward to the next book, please don’t end this series. I look forward to see how the two (or three?) find a way to investigate when Clement retires.
Highly recommended this must be Ms Martins, best series, and she has written many wonderful series. Lets hope there is a way to keep it going.
This is the eighth in the series, set in the 1960’s, with WPC Trudy Loveday and the coroner Clement Ryder. Another great mystery, set amongst the back street clubs of the early sixties. Where the lead singer of a rising group is found dead. Was it a tragic accident or murder? Once again Ryder and Loveday are joined by Dr Ryder’s son, who is a great addition to the team. There are many suspects, each with their own agenda. See if you can work out which one it was?
Setting the series in the sixties, works well and shows how good old fashioned detective work, is used without all the modern databases, mobiles, and social media etc. Once again this is a fast paced, engaging mystery. I love the characters and how they interact. Looking forward to the next book, please don’t end this series. I look forward to see how the two (or three?) find a way to investigate when Clement retires.
Highly recommended this must be Ms Martins, best series, and she has written many wonderful series. Lets hope there is a way to keep it going.
July 23, 2022
Oxford, 1963: pop music is all the craze amongst young people. The success of The Beatles made hundred of young guys to try to become the next big thing. The Rainbirds is one of this up-and-coming bands until one of his leads meets an untimely death at a staircase. Although it looks like an accidental fall, the evidences says the contrary to Dr. Clement Ryder so, along WPC Trudy Loveday, will set upon finding the truth.
It’s book 8 in the series and the great thing about it is it keeps evolving. It could have stalled, following the same pattern book after book, but the circumstances in Dr. Ryder’s life have made necessary to introduce some new elements in their team (his son Vincent, whom we already met in book 7) and that fit perfectly in Dr. Ryder and Trudy dynamics.
Dr. Ryder’s illness is progressing and I’m so curious to see how that will affect Trudy at the police station, now that it looks like she might lose her main supporter. I love how she has evolved throughout the series, being now much more self-assured, and how she’s slowly gaining some sympathies amongst her colleagues.
The murder mystery was an interesting one, full of shady and slimy characters willing to do anything to achieve their goals, and with a seedy nightclub that worked perfectly as the main scenario.
I also loved all the medical comments about the victim’s injuries and how those led to a murder charge and, as a medical examiner myself, I thought they were right on point.
Although the ending had a sense of finality, I really hope the series continues, as it has lovely characters and the setting around the 60s allows for some really good old detective work stories.
Thanks to NetGalley and HQ for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s book 8 in the series and the great thing about it is it keeps evolving. It could have stalled, following the same pattern book after book, but the circumstances in Dr. Ryder’s life have made necessary to introduce some new elements in their team (his son Vincent, whom we already met in book 7) and that fit perfectly in Dr. Ryder and Trudy dynamics.
Dr. Ryder’s illness is progressing and I’m so curious to see how that will affect Trudy at the police station, now that it looks like she might lose her main supporter. I love how she has evolved throughout the series, being now much more self-assured, and how she’s slowly gaining some sympathies amongst her colleagues.
The murder mystery was an interesting one, full of shady and slimy characters willing to do anything to achieve their goals, and with a seedy nightclub that worked perfectly as the main scenario.
I also loved all the medical comments about the victim’s injuries and how those led to a murder charge and, as a medical examiner myself, I thought they were right on point.
Although the ending had a sense of finality, I really hope the series continues, as it has lovely characters and the setting around the 60s allows for some really good old detective work stories.
Thanks to NetGalley and HQ for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2022
It is 1963 Oxford, a time of the discovery of the Beatles and other bands trying to find their big break. When a band member is found dead with his skull crushed halfway down the steps of a backstreet nightclub, it looks suspicious to Coroner Clement Ryder. He again requests the services of WPC Trudy Lovelady to investigate.
This is the eighth in the Ryder and Lovelady mysteries; it is the fourth I have read. Obviously, I enjoy Faith Martin’s writing (including her DI Hillary Green novels), although I thought this story line wasn’t quite as captivating as some of the earlier ones.
Still, it is a pleasant read (yes, even with the murder). It is fun to revisit the 60s when the world is on the brink of so many social changes. A woman in a police uniform is a rarity and Lovelady’s abilities are often dismissed especially by her superiors. But, Ryder appreciates her skill and promotes her successes.
This works well as a standalone, but it is worthwhile to read some of the earlier books to see the relationship between these two characters as well as some supporting players develop.
It is no spoiler to note that Ryder has the beginning of Parkinson’s and is contemplating the end of his career. I hope this is not the finale of the series and that Ryder will find some way to continue assisting in investigations and that Lovelady will fully come into her own.
Thanks to #netgalley and #HQ for the DRC
This is the eighth in the Ryder and Lovelady mysteries; it is the fourth I have read. Obviously, I enjoy Faith Martin’s writing (including her DI Hillary Green novels), although I thought this story line wasn’t quite as captivating as some of the earlier ones.
Still, it is a pleasant read (yes, even with the murder). It is fun to revisit the 60s when the world is on the brink of so many social changes. A woman in a police uniform is a rarity and Lovelady’s abilities are often dismissed especially by her superiors. But, Ryder appreciates her skill and promotes her successes.
This works well as a standalone, but it is worthwhile to read some of the earlier books to see the relationship between these two characters as well as some supporting players develop.
It is no spoiler to note that Ryder has the beginning of Parkinson’s and is contemplating the end of his career. I hope this is not the finale of the series and that Ryder will find some way to continue assisting in investigations and that Lovelady will fully come into her own.
Thanks to #netgalley and #HQ for the DRC
November 2, 2022
An excellent end to an interesting series. Sorry to see them end, though. And really... part of me wants to give it four stars for introducing what appears to be a relational storyline and then dropping it. Only the fact that this is a MYSTERY series kept me from getting worked up about it. I don't really expect or look for romance in every book I read. It's actually nice not to have it. However, if a line is going to be nudged at, hinted at, the door opened, and a toe or two pushed through, and then dropped without explanation, it makes me wonder if other things were dropped that I missed. Had it only been in this book, I might not have cared, but to carry over through two...
Still, this book was so interesting (even with the histrionics of one of the characters) that I had to give it an excellent rating. For those who care, this book did include a few more crass words than others did.
Still, this book was so interesting (even with the histrionics of one of the characters) that I had to give it an excellent rating. For those who care, this book did include a few more crass words than others did.
July 27, 2022
It’s the start of the pop and rock revolution, and bars and clubs are looking to take advantage of youth eager to dance away the night (and buy lots of beer). One particular club, run by an unscrupulous owner, has all the best acts in Oxford, with some beginning to get the notice of record managers in London.
One band is on the cusp of getting their first deal, when their lead singer dies suddenly. The death attracts the notice of senior coroner Clement Ryder. He’s got a feeling about the case, and he gets young WPC Trudy Loveday to assist, as he has with other cases that have grabbed his interest. Trudy’s boss is less than thrilled to loan her out to Ryder, despite their combined effectiveness at finding murderers (book 1-7).
Trudy gets a chance to go undercover, and Ryder has a major health concern he’s keeping from everyone but his son. It’s getting in the way of his job, and though he doesn’t realize it, Trudy knows something is wrong.
Regarding the murder investigation, the murderer wasn’t hard to suss out, but I liked how Trudy and Ryder got there themselves. I also liked the way Faith Martin showed how critically underused and underestimated female police officers were at this time.
I also appreciated how one of the characters wrestled with what to do about her unwanted pregnancy, and the dangerous lengths she went to to terminate it. It’s a sad reminder of how little control and how few options women had in these situations then (and in the present in many places in the world.)
The one thing I did not care for was how the murderer went full on insane as they took steps to preserve their secrets. It felt like a cop-out and even a little lazy.
That aside, I enjoyed this book. I’m pretty late to this series, and will have to check out earlier instalments.
Thank you to Netgalley and to HQ Digital for this ARC in exchange for my review.
One band is on the cusp of getting their first deal, when their lead singer dies suddenly. The death attracts the notice of senior coroner Clement Ryder. He’s got a feeling about the case, and he gets young WPC Trudy Loveday to assist, as he has with other cases that have grabbed his interest. Trudy’s boss is less than thrilled to loan her out to Ryder, despite their combined effectiveness at finding murderers (book 1-7).
Trudy gets a chance to go undercover, and Ryder has a major health concern he’s keeping from everyone but his son. It’s getting in the way of his job, and though he doesn’t realize it, Trudy knows something is wrong.
Regarding the murder investigation, the murderer wasn’t hard to suss out, but I liked how Trudy and Ryder got there themselves. I also liked the way Faith Martin showed how critically underused and underestimated female police officers were at this time.
I also appreciated how one of the characters wrestled with what to do about her unwanted pregnancy, and the dangerous lengths she went to to terminate it. It’s a sad reminder of how little control and how few options women had in these situations then (and in the present in many places in the world.)
The one thing I did not care for was how the murderer went full on insane as they took steps to preserve their secrets. It felt like a cop-out and even a little lazy.
That aside, I enjoyed this book. I’m pretty late to this series, and will have to check out earlier instalments.
Thank you to Netgalley and to HQ Digital for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 20, 2022
Oxford, 1963 In a back street club, people dance the night away to their favourite band. An argument is brewing between band members, two possessive girlfriends have plans for their partners, the club manager is creaming off profits and a tragic accident leaves the lead singer dead.
But was it an accident at all? Coroner Clement Ryder is suspicious, and WPC Trudy Loveday knows there’s only one thing for it. She’s going undercover, deep into the seedy underbelly of Oxford nightlife.
This is the eighth outing for Trudy & Clement but their could be changes, which I look forward to finding out these are resolved. There are plenty of suspects as well as twists, turns & red herrings. I really enjoy the dynamics of Clement & Trudy's relationship & Vincent, Clement's son, appearing again adds another dimension to the team & it’s the characters which make the book for me rather than the mystery, although that is good.
An interesting well written book which I thoroughly enjoyed
But was it an accident at all? Coroner Clement Ryder is suspicious, and WPC Trudy Loveday knows there’s only one thing for it. She’s going undercover, deep into the seedy underbelly of Oxford nightlife.
This is the eighth outing for Trudy & Clement but their could be changes, which I look forward to finding out these are resolved. There are plenty of suspects as well as twists, turns & red herrings. I really enjoy the dynamics of Clement & Trudy's relationship & Vincent, Clement's son, appearing again adds another dimension to the team & it’s the characters which make the book for me rather than the mystery, although that is good.
An interesting well written book which I thoroughly enjoyed
June 22, 2022
Another great read delivered from Faith Martin.
Its set in 1963 and starts in a seedy back street club. A member of an up and coming band appears to have an accident and dies. Coroner Clement Ryder is not convinced its an accident and brings WPC Trudy Loveday on board to investigate.
Its a fab murder mystery and made that bit more interesting due to the era it is set in.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for giving my honest opinion.
Its set in 1963 and starts in a seedy back street club. A member of an up and coming band appears to have an accident and dies. Coroner Clement Ryder is not convinced its an accident and brings WPC Trudy Loveday on board to investigate.
Its a fab murder mystery and made that bit more interesting due to the era it is set in.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for giving my honest opinion.
February 14, 2025
I need more!
My favorite series! This was a fantastic book and I hope to see more! I highly recommend Faith Martin as an author.
My favorite series! This was a fantastic book and I hope to see more! I highly recommend Faith Martin as an author.
June 30, 2022
I hate it when good things come to an end
…but I loved the book. Bittersweet. These are 2 of my favorite mystery characters and I feel a distinct sense of loss, this being the final book in the series.
The work itself is an excellent piece—well developed characters for whom you feel empathy—or loathing, when required for the development of the plot.
The story, set of course in 1963 Oxford, encapsulates the odd, but massive, changing of the times as a new generation steps onto its path in history. The story conveys the fractures that accelerate in society, but on very personal levels.
Well done. Really a good—if wistful and sad—read.
…but I loved the book. Bittersweet. These are 2 of my favorite mystery characters and I feel a distinct sense of loss, this being the final book in the series.
The work itself is an excellent piece—well developed characters for whom you feel empathy—or loathing, when required for the development of the plot.
The story, set of course in 1963 Oxford, encapsulates the odd, but massive, changing of the times as a new generation steps onto its path in history. The story conveys the fractures that accelerate in society, but on very personal levels.
Well done. Really a good—if wistful and sad—read.
February 8, 2024
If this is the end to this series I will be upset. I need a proper ending to be satisfied with it being over.
August 12, 2022
This is the 8th book a a lovely series set in the 1960’s and featuring the endearingly enterprising WPC Trudy Loveday and retired coroner Clement Ryder.
In this book we meet an up and coming band, The Rainbirds, who are on the cusp of being signed up with a bright future ahead when their lead singer is found dead on the stairs of the club they are playing at.
The duo are delightful and are joined again by Clements son. The three make excellent work of good old fashion police work and the descriptions of the club and the characters make the reader really engaged with the storyline.
I hadn’t guessed what had happened until almost the end and the story was wrapped up well and leaving the reader looking forward to the next in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this book we meet an up and coming band, The Rainbirds, who are on the cusp of being signed up with a bright future ahead when their lead singer is found dead on the stairs of the club they are playing at.
The duo are delightful and are joined again by Clements son. The three make excellent work of good old fashion police work and the descriptions of the club and the characters make the reader really engaged with the storyline.
I hadn’t guessed what had happened until almost the end and the story was wrapped up well and leaving the reader looking forward to the next in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2022
Ryder is aware that his Parkinson's is progressing and that this should be his last case. His son is now working with Ryder and the Constable who has been his assistant. The case involves a young musician who died of head trauma on a spiral staircase in a rather seedy club. Several side stories relevant to the case/suspects, but the whodunit is very well done (as always).
Great sleuthing, fine plot, devious twists, and red herrings. I loved it!
I requested and received a fee ebook copy from HQ Digital via NetGalley. Thank you!
Great sleuthing, fine plot, devious twists, and red herrings. I loved it!
I requested and received a fee ebook copy from HQ Digital via NetGalley. Thank you!
June 29, 2022
A new constable gets more experience
Trudi Loveday is learning to be a good constable and this case involves death of an aspiring rock star. The characters seem really and the old music hall authenticate.
Trudi Loveday is learning to be a good constable and this case involves death of an aspiring rock star. The characters seem really and the old music hall authenticate.
March 26, 2023
Loved this series
October 27, 2024
Bitter sweet end of the series. Refreshing series, I quite enjoyed it!
June 17, 2022
It's 1963. The Rainbirds band is playing at the Bootleggers Club. Ray Reason, who is very good looking and attracts all the young women would like to be the Rainbirds head man, but Marty is actually a better singer and the song writer for the group. Ray's girlfriend, Lindy-Lu is there to watch, as well as Jenny Wren, Marty's girlfriend. Lindy-Lu tells Ray that she is pregnant, and he tells her he is willing to help her get an abortion, and they sqaubble. At the end of the evening, Ray is dead on the circular stairs going down to the break room. Although the Coroner's Court decides it is accidental death, Trudy Loveday and Dr. Clement Ryder decide they should investigate further because of some extenuating circumstances. Ryder's son Vincent is visiting him and jumps right into the investigation. It appears that Trudy and Vincent are becoming interested in each other.
There are several suspects for the murder, including Lindy-Lu who is angry he won't marry her, Marty and Jenny who know Ray is trying to take over the band, the man who runs the bar who they believe is being blackmailed by Ray since he gives the Rainbirds the best times, and Titus Crowther-Beauley, who wanted to become the band manager, which Ray didn't want to happen. The story becomes quite exciting, as the three investigators get closer to the solution.
I thank Netgalley and HQ books for allowing me to read an ARC in order to write an honest review.
There are several suspects for the murder, including Lindy-Lu who is angry he won't marry her, Marty and Jenny who know Ray is trying to take over the band, the man who runs the bar who they believe is being blackmailed by Ray since he gives the Rainbirds the best times, and Titus Crowther-Beauley, who wanted to become the band manager, which Ray didn't want to happen. The story becomes quite exciting, as the three investigators get closer to the solution.
I thank Netgalley and HQ books for allowing me to read an ARC in order to write an honest review.
June 21, 2022
There is a sense of finality about this eighth book in the Ryder and Loveday series. Clement Ryder's Parkinson's disease is progressing, meaning retiring from his role as the coroner is inevitable. However, WPC Trudy Loveday still doesn't know, and he hopes they can have the last case together before she does. A suspicious accident at a notorious nightclub raises Clement's suspicions and manages to convince the local police that further investigation is merited.
The dynamic between Trudy and Clement remains strong and is one of the best things about this series. Vincent, Clement's son, is also featured, adding an extra frisson to the story, especially for Trudy. The case is complex, and the cast of believably flawed suspects keep the reader guessing. The vibrantly portrayed sense of place and time adds authenticity, and the ending is dramatic and satisfying.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
The dynamic between Trudy and Clement remains strong and is one of the best things about this series. Vincent, Clement's son, is also featured, adding an extra frisson to the story, especially for Trudy. The case is complex, and the cast of believably flawed suspects keep the reader guessing. The vibrantly portrayed sense of place and time adds authenticity, and the ending is dramatic and satisfying.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 29, 2022
Another good one
A completely enjoyable read. The plot was
full of surprises and the main characters true to form. The writing is smooth and just flows along. A sure bet for those who enjoy the cozy type of mystery stories.
A completely enjoyable read. The plot was
full of surprises and the main characters true to form. The writing is smooth and just flows along. A sure bet for those who enjoy the cozy type of mystery stories.
June 29, 2022
Surprise Ending
I was unable to decide “who had done it” until I got to the end.
I have a medical background & found the medical comments right in line w/the facts. Thanks.
I was unable to decide “who had done it” until I got to the end.
I have a medical background & found the medical comments right in line w/the facts. Thanks.
June 25, 2022
I’ve loved this series by Faith Martin, and the ending leaves me wondering if there will be more, or if this was the end of the series. The partnership between the older coroner, Clement Ryder and the young police constable Trudy Loveday is a study in mentorship.. The author captures the times with the focus on the new popular music. A clever mystery.
June 23, 2022
This is such an intriguing and entertaining series! The teamwork and dynamics between Trudy and Clement are second to none. Faith Martin's Ryder & Loveday series and her DI Hillary Greene series are favorites!!!
August 31, 2024
J'ai encore passé un excellent moment avec ce tome, j'aime beaucoup le duo Trudy/Clement et j'ai eu la larme à l’œil de savoir que c'était la fin de la saga. Une chouette fin pour une chouette saga !
September 12, 2024
Mon avis en français
My English review
Je suis toujours impatiente de découvrir la suite des aventures de notre chère Trudy et d’autant plus maintenant que le fils de Ryder est entré en scène.
Un jeune musicien est mort. Le procès est terminé et ils ont décidé que son décès était accidentel. Pourtant, Clément Ryder n’y croit pas trop et il arrive à faire rouvrir l’enquête pour découvrir ce qu’il s’est vraiment passé avec sa jeune amie Trudy. Cette dernière va devoir infiltrer un club pour démêler le vrai du faux à l’aide de Vincent Ryder.
Ce duo est très touchant et j’étais impatiente de voir comment ils allaient résoudre l’enquête. Je me suis laissée portée par le roman et l’investigation. J’étais curieuse de comprendre ce qui s’était passé et l’auteure nous garde en haleine tout au long de l’histoire. Je ne m’attendais vraiment pas à la fin qui m’a bien surprise !
Je ne sais pas si c’est vraiment le dernier tome, mais j’espère qu’il y en aura d’autres, parce qu’il reste encore énormément de potentiel à la série et aux personnages !
Je vous la conseille avec grand plaisir.
My English review
Je suis toujours impatiente de découvrir la suite des aventures de notre chère Trudy et d’autant plus maintenant que le fils de Ryder est entré en scène.
Un jeune musicien est mort. Le procès est terminé et ils ont décidé que son décès était accidentel. Pourtant, Clément Ryder n’y croit pas trop et il arrive à faire rouvrir l’enquête pour découvrir ce qu’il s’est vraiment passé avec sa jeune amie Trudy. Cette dernière va devoir infiltrer un club pour démêler le vrai du faux à l’aide de Vincent Ryder.
Ce duo est très touchant et j’étais impatiente de voir comment ils allaient résoudre l’enquête. Je me suis laissée portée par le roman et l’investigation. J’étais curieuse de comprendre ce qui s’était passé et l’auteure nous garde en haleine tout au long de l’histoire. Je ne m’attendais vraiment pas à la fin qui m’a bien surprise !
Je ne sais pas si c’est vraiment le dernier tome, mais j’espère qu’il y en aura d’autres, parce qu’il reste encore énormément de potentiel à la série et aux personnages !
Je vous la conseille avec grand plaisir.
July 2, 2022
What I really like about these books is the relationship and interaction between Trudi and Dr Ryder, my problem with this book, is they were almost minor characters.
Unfortunately I didn’t really like this story, it didn’t help that it felt like the author was trying to write a TV script. There was a long very slow build up where lots of different characters are introduced, all with some mysterious issues. Maybe the author has visions of writing the next 'Morse' or 'Lewis' series.
Perhaps it is my lack of patience, but after well over two hundred pages nothing had been revealed and Trudi and Dr Ryder were hardly involved.
In the end the case is solved and it appears that Dr Ryder has succumbed to the inevitable, which does put some doubts on the future of the series.
Unfortunately I didn’t really like this story, it didn’t help that it felt like the author was trying to write a TV script. There was a long very slow build up where lots of different characters are introduced, all with some mysterious issues. Maybe the author has visions of writing the next 'Morse' or 'Lewis' series.
Perhaps it is my lack of patience, but after well over two hundred pages nothing had been revealed and Trudi and Dr Ryder were hardly involved.
In the end the case is solved and it appears that Dr Ryder has succumbed to the inevitable, which does put some doubts on the future of the series.
July 27, 2024
C’était un très belle fin, sans être trop larmoyante ce dont j’avais peur et Trudy mérite enfin toute cette reconnaissance pour son travail ! Une de mes sagas cosy mystery favorite ❤️
November 14, 2023
A Fatal End has the feel of a final book in a series. If that's the case then this is disappointing. Not the mystery element which is fine, but the lives of the characters. Too much happens off stage and I think we as readers deserve to see Dr Ryder's revelation to Trudy. If I'm wrong and there are more books to come then, hurrah!
December 8, 2022
If this is the last ever book in this series, that conclusion is woefully lacklustre
June 16, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and HQ for an advance copy of A Fatal End, the eighth novel to feature WPC Trudy Loveday and Coroner Dr Clement Ryder, set in Oxford 1963.
A member of the up and coming band The Rainbirds is found dead on a staircase in a seedy club, The Bootleggers. The coroner’s jury delivers a verdict of accidental death, but Clement isn’t so sure and enlists Trudy’s help in an unofficial investigation. They discover all kinds of undercurrents when trying to establish what happened.
I wouldn’t call A Fatal End gripping, more of a pleasant read with an interesting mystery attached. It is told from a variety of points of view which, while explaining motives and hinting at secrets, doesn’t lead to a continuous, absorbing read. I found it an easy novel to put down with all the switches and natural breaks.
I enjoyed the plot and its setting. British pop was starting to take off at that time, so it was interesting to see a band at the start of their career and all the infighting and greed that accompanies it. I don’t think that it offers much new in its portrayal of exploitation, but the author does a great job of making it personal and tangible. The plot is interesting with a well disguised perpetrator and any number of suspects. It meanders its way slowly through these suspects and potential witnesses, although it is difficult to know who is which, even for the reader who has more access to information than Trudy and Clement. The solution when it comes is unexpected and a nice surprise.
The mystery of whodunnit is good but the real strength in the novel is the characters. Trudy has come a long way from the naïve girl she was at the start of the series and is now able to hold her own with good nature and humour. Clemente’s illness is getting progressively worse and he’s contemplating some life changes in his own uncompromising and sarcastic way. I hope it’s not the end of the series with the unresolved issue of the growing attraction but no action between Trudy and Clement’s son Vincent. It would be interesting to know if she was prepared to give up her career for love and marriage (many companies and public services didn’t employ married women at the time).
A Fatal End is a good read that I can recommend.
A member of the up and coming band The Rainbirds is found dead on a staircase in a seedy club, The Bootleggers. The coroner’s jury delivers a verdict of accidental death, but Clement isn’t so sure and enlists Trudy’s help in an unofficial investigation. They discover all kinds of undercurrents when trying to establish what happened.
I wouldn’t call A Fatal End gripping, more of a pleasant read with an interesting mystery attached. It is told from a variety of points of view which, while explaining motives and hinting at secrets, doesn’t lead to a continuous, absorbing read. I found it an easy novel to put down with all the switches and natural breaks.
I enjoyed the plot and its setting. British pop was starting to take off at that time, so it was interesting to see a band at the start of their career and all the infighting and greed that accompanies it. I don’t think that it offers much new in its portrayal of exploitation, but the author does a great job of making it personal and tangible. The plot is interesting with a well disguised perpetrator and any number of suspects. It meanders its way slowly through these suspects and potential witnesses, although it is difficult to know who is which, even for the reader who has more access to information than Trudy and Clement. The solution when it comes is unexpected and a nice surprise.
The mystery of whodunnit is good but the real strength in the novel is the characters. Trudy has come a long way from the naïve girl she was at the start of the series and is now able to hold her own with good nature and humour. Clemente’s illness is getting progressively worse and he’s contemplating some life changes in his own uncompromising and sarcastic way. I hope it’s not the end of the series with the unresolved issue of the growing attraction but no action between Trudy and Clement’s son Vincent. It would be interesting to know if she was prepared to give up her career for love and marriage (many companies and public services didn’t employ married women at the time).
A Fatal End is a good read that I can recommend.
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