After the Fire

March 14, 2016
A fatal fire rages through the rundown Murchison House, part of north London’s Maudling Estate, in Casey’s thrilling sixth mystery featuring feisty, determined Det. Constable Maeve Kerrigan (after 2014’s The Kill). Surprisingly, among the dead is the “far-right, immigrant-hating, welfare-criticizing MP” Geoff Armstrong, who either jumped or was pushed from the 10th floor and who seemingly would have no cause to be in such a disreputable place. Uncertain whether the fire is arson, Maeve and her colleagues, including her rough-edged former partner, Det. Insp. Josh Derwent, painstakingly wade through the evidence, witness statements, and profiles of the estate’s down-and-out residents. Maeve and her team succeed in identifying a number of suspects capable of criminal acts. Meanwhile, Maeve is battling health problems resulting from job stress and avoiding a rapist who has been following her for years. Well-drawn characters and engaging subplots compliment the intricate main investigation. Casey keeps the suspense high throughout. Agent: Ariella Feiner, United Agents (U.K.).