A Slowly Dying Cause by Elizabeth George

 It's been quite a while since I delved into an Inspector Lynley book, but this one, set in the familiar landscapes of Cornwall, felt like a warm reunion. The setting, so reminiscent of my own experiences there, brought back a flood of fond memories. A Slowly Dying Cause felt like an old friend, welcoming me back with open arms.

When Michael Lobb is found murdered in his workshop by an agent of a mining company intent on acquiring his land, suspicion initially falls on the agent. Pressure is on Inspector Barbara Hannaford to solve the murder, so when a company employee appears to confess, Hannaford thinks the case is solved--but she isn't convinced the case is airtight. When Inspector Thomas Lynley, in Cornwall, attending to estate business, offers to take a look, Hannaford eagerly takes him up on the offer. Sergeant Barbara Havers is also in Cornwall with Lynley, but she is re-investigating the case on behalf of the accused's family. At first, Lynley and Havers appear to be at cross-purposes, but they soon join forces to solve the murder. 

At 650 pages, it seemed like George was ranging far afield with so many subplots. That proved not to be the case, however, by the time she wrapped up the storylines. The book's pacing was steady, keeping me engaged throughout. This book is well-plotted with interesting characters and situations. I was disappointed by the lack of repercussions for a couple of the characters, but overall, this was a satisfying read. 

4.5/5 stars.

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