Souls of Men: An Elaine Hope Novel

The beating death of 15-year-old Sheila Watson in East London propels Ashworth’s strong debut, a series opener. When a bus driver says that a passenger, later identified as American surgeon Peter Willend, got off at the same stop as the victim, Det. Insp. Elaine Hope’s instincts tell her he’s not the killer, but then she finds him undeniably attractive. With the help of a promising new colleague, Det. Constable Liz Barker, and a crack team, Elaine follows a labyrinthine set of clues while the bodies pile up. Ashworth spins a gritty mystery buttressed by shady deals, dirty money, and a vast criminal enterprise. It’s easy to root for the smart, empathic Elaine, whose vulnerabilities (including hinted-at childhood trauma) only add to her appeal, and Ashworth surrounds her with intriguing players, including an obnoxious colleague who may be more than what he seems. This is a procedural with heart, yet it doesn’t shy away from the dark. Agent: Elizabeth Trupin-Pulli, JET Literary Associates. (Apr.)