Death at the White Hart

 By: Chris Chibnall 

Location: FIC CHI

Genre: Mystery

From the internationally award-winning creator of Broadchurch comes a brilliant new detective story following one man’s death and the secrets that unravel in a coastal English village.

Nothing keeps a village together like secrets.

The villagers of Fleetcombe like to think of it as one of the most picturesque spots on England’s seaside.

But now, it’s a crime scene.

A man is found dead, tied to a chair in the middle of the road, with a stag’s antler’s on his head. The gruesome scene stuns the town, especially when they learn that it is Jim Tiernan, owner of the White Hart pub, who has been found murdered.

Is it a personal vendetta, or something more macabre? Tierney’s pub is at the center of village life and he knew everyone’s secrets.

Detective Nicola Bridge grew up in Fleetcombe, and has been craving a juicy case ever since she moved back from the big city. DC Harry Ward is ten years younger, and their partnership is somehow stronger, and more satisfying even than her marriage. Together, they are determined to crack the storybook façade to find out just what the people of Fleetcombe have to hide.

And now, in the town she thought she knew so well, Detective Nicola Bridge is asking questions. Is she ready for what she’s about to find?

Review by Gigi

If you’re a fan of the TV series Broadchurch, then this book is a must-read! The creator of that show is the genius behind this book, and it’s just as gripping. The story kicks off with a bang when a publican is found dead in the middle of the road, tied to a chair with deer antlers glued to his head. Yep, you read that right!

In this small village, the suspect list is nice and short, but the drama is huge. Enter our detective duo: Nicola Bridge, back in her sleepy hometown after leaving Liverpool, and her eager but inexperienced partner, DC Harry Ward. They’re on the case, sifting through a tight-knit community full of secrets and surprises.

The writing is super engaging and the pacing is just right, like a well-edited TV drama, packed with stunning visuals, and not to mention the creepy image of the body with antlers.

It’s suspenseful, thrilling, and totally binge-worthy. You’ll race to the end just to see how it all unravels. If you love a good mystery with great characters and plenty of twists, this one’s for you.