Deadly Errand by Christine Green.

This is the first time I’ve read a book by this author. It features Kate Kinsella, a former nurse who’s now a private detective. Her previous profession makes her the ideal person to investigate the murder of Jacky Byfield at a local hospital.

Kate goes undercover, working the night shift to find out what happened and why. She soon unearths some secrets that could have led to Jacky’s murder. Finding the killer proves harder and three further deaths follow.

It’s a well-written, gently paced story that puts as much effort into creating believable and engaging characters as it does with the plot. As Kate gets closer to catching the killer, the pace and tension intensify for an interesting confrontation and round up.

I enjoyed the story, and especially Kate’s friendship with landlord Hubert, which provided some welcome fun and humour. If you enjoy reading a cosy mystery with interesting characters and a story that’s a little bit different from the usual, give Deadly Errand a go.

Description

Meet Kate. Nurse turned detective. Used to dealing with death. But not murder.

Kate Kinsella is in her office above Humberstones Funeral Directors, contemplating her first real murder case as a private investigator.

Jacky Byfield, a nurse at rundown St. Dymphna’s Hospital, was stabbed to death on the grounds while running an errand on her night shift.

The police have hit a dead end. Jacky’s family are desperate for justice, and it’s up to Kate to get results — and catch a killer.

Kate decides to go undercover at St. Dymphna’s.

But three more people die in suspicious circumstances while she’s there — including her prime suspect.

Will Kate become the fifth victim?