The Three Body Problem

A Cambridge Mystery

By: Catherine Shaw

Narrated by: Liz Hollis

Cambridge University, 1888. The world of Miss Vanessa Duncan, a young schoolmistress, is shattered when a Fellow of Mathematics, Mr Akers, is found dead with a violent blow to the back of his head.

Discussing the murder, she learns of a competition set by the King of Sweden on the "n-body" problem, an as-yet unsolved puzzle set by Sir Isaac Newton. It is thought that Akers was working towards a solution to win the prestigious prize.

Another death occurs and Vanessa's new love becomes a suspect. Convinced of his innocence, Vanessa sets about to clear his name.

©2004 Catherine Shaw (P)2007 Oakhill Publishing

Critic reviews

"Mathematics becomes an unlikely catalyst for romance, murder and intrigue" (Library Journal)
"Shaw's debut manages to emerge as an original and fascinating story." (Chicago Tribune)

Much more than a Whodunnit!

This is a premier listen. And it is far more that a whodunnit set in 1888. This is a wonderful story of a young woman establishing herself in a period long before it was fashionable (or easy) for a woman to be independent. The story is told through a series of letters to Vanessa's twin sister and while the central point is the resolution of three murders the story has a wider appeal, dealing with Vanessa's life, her circumstances and her romantic involvement with the accused. A wonderful story and Liz Hollis' narration was inspired!