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Home / Series / Richard Pryor Mysteries

Series

Richard Pryor Mysteries

The Richard Pryor Mysteries are set in 1950s Britain and follow forensic pathologist Richard Pryor after he leaves colonial service and establishes a private laboratory in the Wye Valley. He works with biologist Angela Bray and physician Priscilla Chambers on deaths that require scientific evidence rather than conventional police assumptions.

The novels use autopsy findings, toxicology, anthropology and courtroom testimony to examine the development of modern forensic medicine. Their cases range from unidentified remains and suspected poisoning to disputed convictions, while the partnership must also navigate professional prejudice and the practical risks of running an independent forensic consultancy.

Reading order

Books in this series (3 books)

Where Death Delights cover

#1 – Where Death Delights

Bernard Knight

In 1955, pathologist Richard Pryor leaves government service and uses his severance pay to establish a private forensic consultancy with scientist Angela Bray. Their first substantial case concerns human remains found near a reservoir and claimed by two different women as missing relatives. Identification requires careful…

According to the Evidence cover

#2 – According to the Evidence

Bernard Knight

Richard Pryor and Angela Bray’s consultancy is becoming established when an apparent suicide at an isolated Welsh farm raises questions about the physical evidence. A separate request from the War Office introduces another problem in which official secrecy restricts what the investigators can reveal. The most…

Grounds for Appeal cover

#3 – Grounds for Appeal

Bernard Knight

Angela Bray returns to the Wye Valley laboratory while physician Priscilla Chambers remains with the consultancy and contributes her knowledge of anthropology. Their next investigation begins when a headless body with bound hands is recovered from a bog near the Welsh resort of Borth. The condition…