The Punishment She Deserves

A Lynley Novel

By: Elizabeth George

Narrated by: Simon Vance

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers and Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley are forced to confront the past as they try to solve a crime that threatens to tear apart the very fabric of a quiet, historic medieval town in England

The cozy, bucolic town of Ludlow is stunned when one of its most revered and respected citizens--Ian Druitt, the local deacon--is accused of a serious crime. Then, while in police custody, Ian is found dead. Did he kill himself? Or was he murdered?

When Barbara Havers is sent to Ludlow to investigate the chain of events that led to Ian's death, all the evidence points to suicide. But Barbara can't shake the feeling that she's missing something. She decides to take a closer look at the seemingly ordinary inhabitants of Ludlow--mainly elderly retirees and college students--and discovers that almost everyone in town has something to hide.

A masterful work of suspense, The Punishment She Deserves sets Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers and Inspector Thomas Lynley against one of their most intricate cases. Fans of the longtime series will love the many characters from Elizabeth George's previous novels who join Lynley and Havers, and readers new to the series will quickly see why she is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed writers of our time. Both a page-turner and a deeply complex story about the lies we tell, the lies we believe, and the redemption we need, this novel will be remembered as one of George's best.

Somewhat Disappointed....

It was difficult to see Barbara take the fall...again...and to end the story with her humiliation. Lynley understands and knows her and her talents the best, but wants her to fall on a sword to protect her disreputable drunken boss... again. His meddling in her private life got her to the end with not even a pat on the back... when she is the only real detective, only to end... once again, with Barbara looking unfit and a clown...

Wonderful character development

I was daunted by the length of this book; however, it's three stories together: Havers, Ardrey's, and the mystery. The deep relationship between Havers and Lynley was portrayed well. DCS Ardrey's character was a little too stereotypical, including her final surrender but I found the mystery intriguing, and the cast of characters interesting. I love the Lynley books though, so I'm inclined to read them without as much criticism as I muster with other writers.

Very satisfying & complex novel, beautifully read

This lengthy novel includes familiar George characters as well as a host of new ones. The story is rich & complex interweaving the actions of many (usually) broken lives. As a clergyperson, I appreciated salient clue.

Although the plot is resolved, it remains “open” to the future. Throughout it is engaging. Vance narrated the novel with restrained Intensity.

Interesting layers and great reader

I love John Lee as a reader and he does well with Elizabeth George. This story had a nice “double” theme with stories of overprotective moms who “got it” …or not. I love George’s depiction of human frailties and addiction and her deep understanding and forgiveness. And Barbara Havers in tap shoes is classic. All in all an absorbing and compelling read.

Intricate weaving of relationships truth lies, deception and love.

To be honest, this is not my normal genre so it took me a little while to get into the story. But later couldn’t put it down, I am impressed on how many lives were intertwined.  and the performance of each of the characters, male and female were brilliant. I would highly recommend .