Death in Holy Orders

by PD James
Death in Holy Orders cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 8205
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9780345467492
  • Publisher: Ballantine Books
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

When a young priest in training meets an untimely death, Commander Adam Dalgliesh is called back to East Anglia to investigate at the request of the young man's father. As Dalgliesh delves into the case, he finds himself drawn into a complex and violent mystery that challenges his investigative skills and personal beliefs. The setting of a theological college adds a layer of depth and intrigue to the story, as Dalgliesh navigates the complexities of faith, power, and human nature. This novel is part of the Adam Dalgliesh series, known for its intricate plotting and well-developed characters. P.D. James, the author, is renowned for her ability to blend crime fiction with deeper themes, making this book a compelling read for fans of the genre.

Reviews
Alter Space Fleet · 2022-07-19
refreshing 4.25

The reviewer appreciates the absence of gore and detailed autopsies, finding the story to be a refreshing change from typical crime fiction.

The reviewer highlights the absence of gore and detailed autopsies, which they find refreshing. They appreciate the story's focus on the characters and their interactions, making it a more enjoyable read. The reviewer also notes that the story doesn't rely on tricks to tell its tale, adding to its authenticity. Overall, they find it to be a well-crafted crime story that stands out from the typical genre tropes.

Quick quotes

    Here was a policeman I actually liked.

    No gore, no horror, no detailed autopsies.

    A crime story that didn't rely on tricks to tell its tale.

Yggdrasille · 2016-06-14
enjoyable 3.75

The first half of the novel is particularly enjoyable due to the backdrop of St. Anselm's college, which is in danger of being closed down.

The reviewer found the first half of the novel to be the most enjoyable, largely due to the setting of St. Anselm's college. The threat of the college being closed down adds a layer of tension and intrigue. The characters and their interactions within this setting are well-developed, making it a compelling read. However, the second half of the novel may not maintain the same level of engagement, but the overall experience is still positive.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoyed the first half of the novel, mostly because of the backdrop of St. Anselm's college.

    The threat of the college being closed down adds a layer of tension and intrigue.

    The characters and their interactions within this setting are well-developed.

Compulsive Reader · 2003-03-22
engaging 4.00

The mystery unfolds at a steady pace with the right amount of suspense, and the author's depth goes beyond just storytelling.

The reviewer appreciates the straightforward nature of the story, highlighting how the mystery unfolds with a perfect balance of suspense and pacing. They also note that the author's depth extends beyond mere storytelling, adding layers that make the book more engaging. The setting and character development are praised for their richness, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy well-crafted mysteries.

Quick quotes

    The story is straightforward, and the mystery unfolds with the right pace, and the right amount of suspense.

    James is much more than a mystery writer; she is a storyteller who weaves complex themes into her narratives.

    The setting and character development are particularly strong, adding depth to the mystery.

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