Who could resist a new Ann Cleeves mystery? Or a an older one, first published in 1990? A Lesson in Dying introduces Inspector Ramsey who has one and possibly two, murders to solve. The totally unlikeable, bullying headmaster of Heppleburn school is killed, then hanged on the playground after a school Halloween party. His wife is arrested but there are many other suspects. Ramsey, helped by Patty, a friendly neighborhood busybody, interviews all these suspects but it will take another death to move the case to conclusion.

Ann Cleeves is the master of British crime novels. Atmospheric locations, well described characters, their interactions and a plot complicated enough to keep you guessing. A Lesson in Dying, although written almost thirty five years ago, is a perfect example of that. 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Ann Cleeves for this ARC.

Who hung the headmaster in the playground on the night of the school Halloween Party?!! Good book! This book had suspense, intriguing, murder, mystery, a great who done it and a few crazy twists and turns! The story was interesting, it wasn't one of my top favorite but still worth reading! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the eARC.
It was so great starting a 'new' series by Ann Cleeves, I'm so glad they're republishing the Inspector Ramsay books.
As usual, Ms. Sleeves sucked me in immediately; she's incredible, I have read all of her books, except for the Detective Ramsay books and have never been disappointed.
I love getting into the heads of the characters she creates. This one is no exception. You get to know the people involved rather than focusing on only the police procedures.
I loved it, highly recommended!

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.

Oh great, another Ann Cleeves series I need to finish. Like I need another book :) Well, as soon as I got to the last page, I immediately requested the next book in the series from my library. Since this was listed as being newly in print in the U.S., I assumed the others wouldn't be available yet. So glad I was wrong! Was it her best writing? Not even close. But was it fun? Sure was! I can't wait to see where she takes Ramsay next and learn more about him. I'm kind of hoping Patty will continue to make appearances; she was my favorite character. If you're a fan of this author, I definitely recommend this.