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Sunday 24 December 2023

‘Maxwell’s Flame’ by M. J. Trow

Published by Constable,
11 September 1995.
ISBN: 978-0-09474870-5 (HB)

Peter (Mad Max) Mawell Head of Sixth Form at Leaford High is cajoled by the Headmaster (Leggs Diamond) to attend the residential GNVQ course at the Carnforth Centre. Sally Greenhaugh accompanies him. There are delegates from several schools and his gloom at being forced to attend the course is somewhat lifted when he discovers that one of the other delegates is Rachel King. He and Rachel had stepped out together in the University days at Cambridge.

Within twenty-four hours of being there, the bludgeoned body of a teacher from St Beede’s school is found in the basement. Liz Striker appears to have led a blameless life, loved by her husband and colleagues alike. The police interview everyone and request that they remain at the centre.  

Max is not overly dismayed at having to stay on and manages to spend some time with Rachel King. His pleasure in her company is marred by the discovery of a second body, and he with the assistance of Sally Greenhaugh sets out to track down the killer. Of course, his interference is not welcomed by the police, but undeterred Max decides to interview all the suspects. I found much of my pleasure in this book provided by the assistance of Sally Greenhaugh. I also enjoyed the humour, particularly the theft of an article of Sally’s underwear.

So, who did kill Liz Striker?

Told with wit and humour, this book is highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Hayes

M. J. Trow is a full-time teacher of history who has been doubling as a crime writer for any years. Originally from Rhonda in South Wales he now lives on the Isle of Wight. His interests include collecting militaria, film, the supernatural and true crime. He is the author of numerous crime novels and various non-fiction books.

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