Where Roses Fade

by Andrew Taylor Book 5 in the Lydmouth Crime series.

First published 2000

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4.3(843)

Mattie Harris is found drowned in the river after a night of drinking, although those who knew her insist she could not swim. When Lydmouth’s most prominent citizens press for a quick verdict of accidental death, Jill Francis becomes convinced that the waitress’s apparent insignificance is being used to close the case.

Inspector Thornhill must weigh local influence against uncertain evidence while his relationship with Jill becomes more intimate and more dangerous. Their search through Mattie’s final days reveals the unequal value the town places on reputation, class and a young woman’s life.