Wycliffe and How to Kill a Cat (Wycliffe Series)

Dive into the murky depths of Cornwall's underbelly with W.J. Burley's gripping mystery, *Wycliffe and How to Kill a Cat*, the second installment in the acclaimed Wycliffe series. Superintendent Charles Wycliffe, a man known for his methodical approach and quiet intensity, finds his holiday plans disrupted when a shocking crime surfaces in a seedy dockside hotel. The victim: a young woman with striking auburn hair, discovered strangled in a state that belies her apparent sophistication. Despite the grim scene a room far below her presumed station and a face brutally marred post-mortem Wycliffe is immediately intrigued. The woman's expensive luggage and refined attire hint at a life far removed from the sordid surroundings, raising perplexing questions about her identity and the circumstances leading to her tragic end. Officially on leave, Wycliffe can't shake off the nagging pull of the case. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a commitment to justice, he embarks on an unofficial investigation. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he unearths a web of deceit, hidden connections, and a multitude of potential suspects, each with their own secrets and motives. From the shady characters lurking in the docks to the seemingly respectable members of the Cornish community, Wycliffe discovers that everyone has something to hide. Burley masterfully crafts a complex and atmospheric narrative, capturing the rugged beauty and inherent darkness of Cornwall. *Wycliffe and How to Kill a Cat* is more than just a whodunit; it's a psychological exploration of human nature, exposing the vulnerabilities and hidden desires that drive individuals to desperate acts. Wycliffe, a character praised for his realism and quiet observation, navigates the intricate landscape of lies with unwavering determination. He is not a flashy, action-oriented detective, but rather a thoughtful and perceptive investigator who relies on his keen understanding of human behavior to unravel the truth. This edition, published by Orion Publishing in 2006, brings this classic British mystery to a new generation of readers. Fans of traditional British crime fiction, and especially those who enjoy authors like Reginald Hill, P.D. James, and Ruth Rendell, will find themselves enthralled by Burley's intricate plot and compelling characters. Explore the dark side of Cornwall with Wycliffe and uncover the chilling secrets that lie beneath the surface in *Wycliffe and How to Kill a Cat*.