The Shropshire Castle Murders (Martha Gunn #6)

Moreton Corbet Castle might seem deserted — with nothing behind its crumbling ramparts besides weeds. But someone’s been here, seeking shelter for the night in the pitch-dark cellar beneath . . .

A John Doe is found dead. Sprawled at the bottom of a twisting stone staircase, in a pool of his own blood.

Coroner Martha Gunn won’t need a post-mortem to confirm cause of death. The angry red gash, sliced into the man’s throat, speaks for itself.

Martha’s determined to catch the killer. But the victim’s body gives no clue to his identity. His pockets are empty. His clothes, shabby and unwashed.

Only one woman, from the nearby village, remembers the man’s face. Along with his cut-glass accent and perfect manners. Like he didn’t come from the streets at all . . .

But even she can’t give the police a name. That was one secret he’d never tell.

He would only say that it was easy for him to disappear from his life. Because he was already dead . . .

Perfect for fans of Ann Cleeves, Aline Templeton, Silent Witness and Patricia Cornwell, this fiendishly twisty and atmospheric crime thriller is sure to keep you turning the pages late into the night.

Please note, this book was previously published as Recalled to Death.

WHAT EVERYONE IS SAYING ABOUT THE MARTHA GUNN

‘A simmering mystery, set in a seemingly peaceful town in England . . . A tense page-turner.’ Midwest Book Review

‘There is no better exponent of the female detective novel in England than Priscilla Masters.’ Julian Symans, bestselling author

‘Masters packs strength after strength into this book. From the atmospheric city of Shrewsbury . . . to a plot that twists and turns . . . to a strong-willed main character.’ Kittling Books

‘Compelling . . . I had to keep on until I finished.’ Damaskcat, Goodreads

‘Ho, Priscilla, where have you been hiding! A very clever story . . . keeps you reading until the last page.’ David, Goodreads

‘Priscilla Masters always delivers.’ Valerie, Goodreads

‘I loved this book, particularly Martha Gunn . . . a strong woman alone, raising her family.’ H. E. Patterson, Amazon

‘A totally captivating plot [that] hooks you and never lets go!’ Nelson, Amazon

MEET THE SLEUTH
Forty-something coroner Martha Gunn knows a thing or two about grief. After the sudden death of her husband, it’s defined her in ways she never imagined. Martha’s twin children were toddlers at the time. Now, a pair of secretive and sulky pre-teens, they have the knack of making Martha feel like an outsider in her own home. Dry-humoured, incisive and relentlessly curious, Martha’s mind is sharp as any scalpel. When DI Alex Randall seeks her insight on a murder case, she can’t resist getting involved — professionally and maybe personally?

THE SETTING
Welcome to Shrewsbury, an ancient market town that will always be defined by its past. The River Severn encircles it on all sides, making it feel like a medieval island frozen in time. With its timbered buildings, narrow lanes and steep streets, its streets are layered with centuries of history. It might seem peaceful at first glance. But a place this old is bound to have its secrets. And they won’t stay hidden forever . . .