‘A Lesson in Dying’ by Anne Cleeves

Published 1990.  
Re-Published by Macmillan.
ISBN: 978-1-03502243-4 (HB)

When headmaster Harold Medburn was found dead on Halloween night, no one shed tears, for Harold was a bully and none mourned his passing, except perhaps his wife kitty.

Jack Robson is the school caretaker and since his wife’s death has recalled more and more his youthful love for Kitty. So, when she is arrested for her husband’s killing, Jack sets out to prove her innocence. To help him in his endeavour, he enlists the help of his daughter Patty.

This is very much a village tale, and no where does a class system exist more strongly than in a small village where everyone knows their place.  Thus, the doggedness with which Jack and Patty go about seeking information is rather endearing. As the unpleasant side of Harold Medburn is slowly uncovered, the number of suspects increases. I thought I had it worked out, and then there is another murder, and I went back to the drawing board.

The story is told from multiple points of view, but Jack Robson’s voice is the strongest.  Recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Hayes

Anne Cleeves worked as a probation officer, at a bird observatory, as a  cook, and auxiliary coastguard before she started writing. She is a member of 'Murder Squad', working with other northern writers to promote crime fiction. In 2006 Ann was awarded the Duncan Lawrie Dagger for Best Crime Novel, for Raven Black . Ann lives in North Tyneside. Her Vera Stanhope series was turned into a major ITV production.