The Delingpole Mysteries: Book One

 

This is an amiable debut novel by David D Dawson, with a tight structure, excellently maintained point of views, and snappy pace. The setting is always clear, the fully fleshed scenes romp along, peopled by crisply created characters.

So let’s begin: we are dragged straight into the action, as Dominic, likeable and empathetic, toddles  out of his door woken from sleep, to deal with the crisis that is evolving on his doorstep. As he does so, he is by no means oblivious to the copper’s biceps, even as he sympathizes with his neighbour who is in a faint at his feet. Feet that he suddenly remembers are bare, well, there isn’t much of him that isn’t. He drags on some clothes, only realising that his feet are still bare as he hobbles over the stones to hail, extravagantly, the ambulance heading down the road to their aid.

And so, dear readers, we’re off at a gallop into a mystery that begins with a young journalism student lying unconscious in a hospital bed in Brighton, England. His life hangs in the balance after a drug overdose. But was it attempted suicide or attempted murder? The student’s mother (she who fainted) persuades British lawyer Dominic Delingpole to investigate, and Dominic enlists the aid of his outspoken opera singer partner, Jonathan McFadden.

The student’s boyfriend discovers compromising photographs hidden in his lover’s room. The photographs not only feature senior politicians and business chiefs, but the young journalist himself. Is he being blackmailed, or is he the blackmailer?

As Dominic and Jonathan investigate further, their lives are threatened and three people are murdered. They uncover a conspiracy that reaches into the highest levels of government and powerful corporations. The people behind it are ruthless, and no one can be trusted. The bond between Dominic and Jonathan deepens as they struggle not only for answers, but for their very survival.

An easy read then?

Yep,with never a dull moment, and one that is saved from being a run of the mill mystery by it’s perkiness and sly humour. I found myself grinning frequently. For instance, he answers the phone:

“Good morning, good morning,” he said jauntily.

“Oh, Mr. Delingpole. I’m very sorry to disturb you. It’s Samantha Gregory here.” Instinctively Dominic reached for the bath towel to restore his dignity—

Though it is a mystery, it also has many thoughtful moments. I liked it. Bravo. When’s the next in the series due to hit the bookshops I wonder.

You’ve still time to buy it for someone’s Secret Santa. Chop chop, hurry hurry.

The Necessary Deathers. Published by DSP Publications

Available on Amazon:

Kindle edition £5.32

Paperback £13.99