The Golden Mile to Murder

The Return of the Native!

The top brass at Scotland Yard have finally had as much as they can take of Chief Inspector Charlie Woodend's quirky approach to police procedure, and this time his exile to the wilds of his native Lancashire is permanent. But it is no joyful homecoming. Even on the first day of his new investigation into the brutal murder of Detective Inspector 'Punch' Davies, Woodend realises he is not exactly being welcomed with open arms.

Not only is his new bagman far less sociable than the trusty Bob Rutter, but he soon gets the distinct impression there are aspects of the case that the Blackpool police would much rather he didn't probe too deeply. Still, it would take more than official disapproval and bureaucratic interference to keep 'Cloggin'-it' Charlie from following his instincts, and he is soon immersed in the world of the Golden Mile, with its bingo halls, sleazy shows and dubious fortunetellers. Woodend comes to realise that solving this crime will require all his wit, bravado and imagination - aided perhaps by the occasional puff on a Capstan Full Strength and a few pints of best bitter.

"Spencer's murders have a genuine catlike creepiness about them and her bloodcurdling finale leaves one with a maniacal grin. Her fifth Charlie Woodend procedural is a walk on the wild side of Blackpool, Britain's R-rated Disneyland for the working classes... An accomplished craftsman who serves up a good puzzle and deftly solves it with intelligence and insight."
Publishers Weekly

"Spencer continues to display a lively pace, a strong central character, a satifying plot, and vivid, realistic views of 1960s England. The bonus in this book is a fascinating description of life at English resort. Highly recommended for fans of English mysteries or police procedurals in any setting."
Booklist

"Unique settings and psychological details supplement Woodend's usual antics: a surefire series addition."
Library Journal

Order The Golden Mile to Murder (hardback) from Amazon.co.uk

Order The Golden Mile to Murder (hardcover) from Amazon.com

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