The Scold’s Bridle

Dive into a world of chilling suspense with Minette Walters' gripping novel, "The Scold's Bridle," a meticulously crafted mystery that will keep you guessing until the very last page. This is a first edition, first printing of this enthralling tale, published by St. Martin's Press in 1994. In the quiet English countryside, a wealthy and formidable matron is discovered dead, a bizarre and terrifying medieval instrument of torture a scold's bridle placed ominously over her head. The local police are baffled, and the investigation quickly focuses on Dr. Sarah Blakeney, the deceased woman's physician and primary beneficiary. Could this seemingly compassionate doctor, one of the victim's few confidantes, truly be capable of such a brutal act? Walters, celebrated as one of the queens of British crime fiction, expertly weaves a complex narrative filled with intriguing characters and unsettling secrets. As the investigation unfolds, long-buried resentments, hidden motives, and shocking revelations begin to surface, painting a portrait of a community rife with jealousy and deception. Dr. Blakeney's past is scrutinized, her relationships are dissected, and her every move is questioned. Is she a victim of circumstance, caught in a web of suspicion, or is she a master manipulator with a dark secret to protect? "The Scold's Bridle" is more than just a whodunit; it's a psychological thriller that explores the depths of human nature, the corrosive power of resentment, and the enduring legacy of past transgressions. Walters masterfully uses the unsettling image of the scold's bridle a symbol of oppression and silenced voices to explore themes of power, control, and the subjugation of women throughout history. This first edition, first printing hardcover edition of "The Scold's Bridle" is a must-have for collectors of classic crime fiction and fans of Minette Walters' masterful storytelling. At 327 pages, this gripping mystery is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of literary history! This specific printing is very hard to find in good condition.