Peter Lovesey's acclaimed Anthony Award-winning novel, "The Last Detective," introduces the indomitable Superintendent Peter Diamond, a classic gumshoe navigating a modern police force. The serene city of Bath is shaken by the discovery of a naked woman's body in a lake, found by an elderly woman and her Siamese cats. With no identity, no murder weapon, and no immediate leads, the case becomes a formidable challenge. Diamond, a master of old-school deduction, embarks on a relentless investigation, employing his signature methods of door-stopping and rigorous analysis. He finds himself battling not only a peculiar array of suspects but also internal office politics and the premature conclusions of his forensics team. Despite facing significant personal consequences and working within the ancient, sprawling landscape of Bath, Diamond's unwavering commitment to justice compels him to uncover a deeply unsettling truth, solidifying his reputation as the quintessential 'last detective' in a changing world.
Critical Reception
"This Anthony Award-winning debut masterfully establishes a beloved and enduring character in the pantheon of British detective fiction, marking Peter Lovesey's acclaimed entry into the genre."