End in Tears

End in Tears Inspector Wexford faces a complex investigation when two young mothers are murdered in Kingsmarkham. The case begins with a concrete block thrown from a bridge onto traffic below, leading to an unexplained death that proves to be part of a larger pattern. The investigation draws Wexford into the victims' interconnected lives as he uncovers a web of relationships and secrets in the community. His pursuit of the truth is complicated by pressure from the media questioning his traditional investigative methods, while tensions with his daughter Sylvia force him to confront personal matters alongside the case. The novel explores themes of family bonds, generational differences, and the impact of social change on both criminal investigation and personal relationships. Rendell's twentieth Wexford novel demonstrates her continued ability to blend police procedural with psychological insight.

Readers found this to be a solid but not exceptional entry in the Inspector Wexford series. Many noted the complex plotting and social commentary around teen pregnancy and surrogacy. Liked: - Detailed character development of both victims and suspects - Multiple interwoven plot threads - Exploration of family dynamics and generational conflicts - Strong sense of setting in Kingsmarkham Disliked: - Slow pacing in middle sections - Too many coincidences in the resolution - Some side plots felt unnecessary - Less engaging than earlier Wexford novels Several readers mentioned the book works better for those already familiar with the series characters. One reviewer noted: "The social issues sometimes overshadow the mystery elements." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (280+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.7/5 (190+ ratings) The book ranks in the middle range of Rendell's Wexford series according to reader rankings.

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🔍 First published in 2005, this was the 20th novel in the Inspector Wexford series, showcasing Rendell's remarkable 40-year commitment to the character. 📚 Ruth Rendell wrote over 60 novels during her career, earning her the title "Queen of Crime" alongside Agatha Christie. 👑 The author was made Baroness Rendell of Babergh in 1997, sitting in the House of Lords as a Labour Party peer. 🌳 Kingsmarkham, where the story takes place, is a fictional Sussex town based on Rendell's home town of Midhardwood, Suffolk. 🏆 The Inspector Wexford series became a successful TV adaptation starring George Baker, running for 23 seasons from 1987 to 2000.