The Various Haunts of Men

A series of mysterious disappearances disrupts life in the English cathedral town of Lafferton. The victims, who vanish while walking on The Hill, include a reclusive middle-aged woman, a young woman struggling with depression, and an elderly widow. Detective Sergeant Freya Graffham, newly transferred from London's Metropolitan Police, leads the investigation under Detective Chief Inspector Simon Serrailler. The case grows more complex as connections emerge between the missing persons and the town's alternative healing community. The story focuses on police procedural elements while exploring the relationships between Lafferton's residents, particularly those within the medical and law enforcement communities. The narrative alternates between multiple perspectives, including those of the investigators and the missing persons. The novel examines themes of isolation in small communities and the tension between conventional medicine and alternative healing practices. It raises questions about trust, vulnerability, and the different ways people seek comfort and connection.

Readers describe this as a slow-burning mystery that takes time to build momentum but rewards patience. The detailed character development and vivid sense of place in the fictional town of Lafferton stand out in reviews. Readers appreciated: - Rich psychological depth of multiple characters - Atmospheric descriptions of the English countryside - Complex plotting that ties multiple threads together - Focus on police procedural details Common criticisms: - Pacing too slow in first third of book - Main character Simon Serrailler remains distant and underdeveloped - Some plot elements left unresolved - Marketing as first in "Simon Serrailler series" misleads, as he plays minor role Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (12,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (1,200+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (900+ ratings) Several reviewers note feeling "betrayed" by the ending, while others praise it as "bold" and "unforgettable." Many indicate they continued with the series despite mixed feelings about this first book.

Still Life by Louise Penny A murder investigation in a small town reveals hidden secrets among its inhabitants, blending psychological depth with police procedural elements.

The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths A forensic archaeologist assists police in a murder case that connects to ancient burial grounds, combining history and modern crime investigation.

In the Woods by Tana French A Dublin detective investigates a child murder that mirrors his own traumatic past, weaving psychological tension with police work.

The Ice Princess by Camilla Läckberg A writer returns to her hometown to investigate a childhood friend's death, uncovering layers of small-town secrets and lies.

The Pure in Heart by Susan Hill The second book in the Simon Serrailler series follows the disappearance of a young boy, exploring the impact of crime on a community.

🔍 The book was published in 2004 and marks Susan Hill's first venture into crime fiction after decades of writing literary and ghost stories. 📚 Susan Hill is also the author of "The Woman in Black," which became one of the longest-running plays in London's West End and was adapted into a successful film starring Daniel Radcliffe. ⛪ The fictional town of Lafferton is believed to be inspired by Wells, Somerset, which is home to the magnificent Wells Cathedral and shares many geographical features with the book's setting. 🏆 The novel won the 2006 Readers' Digest Book Choice Award and established Hill as a significant voice in British crime fiction. 🎭 Hill's background in theater and radio drama heavily influences her writing style, particularly in how she crafts dialogue and builds tension through multiple viewpoints.