I read this book at a totally leisurely pace and enjoyed every bit of it. The topics, though a little morbid-ish (horse-meat?), were intriguing; I found myself completely engrossed (like always) especially by Cooper's part of the investigation: the Cold War, the Black Plague, that overwhelming presence of history and folklore. I don't think I've been involved in a series quite as deeply in a long, long time. I just can't get enough of these books! Having read other Stephen Booth books I looked forward to this one. However, I did not enjoy this one as much as the plot meandered and didn't hold together. He seemed to be connecting the motivations of the characters with the story of Eyam but it didn't work for me. The relationship between Cooper and Fry didn't ring true either. I live in the Peak District and enjoyed the setting details but the abattoir scenes were a bit much. I will be interested to see how Fry deals with the rape case in the next book.
What do You think about O Toque Da Morte (2010)?
Full of local color but way too short on plot. Gave up at about page 100.
—Rodeen
Not quite as good as the others in the series but still a good read.
—Bambi
