The Death Knock

Two bodies. Two murders. Two DEATH KNOCKS to neighbouring houses. The task of informing relatives that loved ones have died is one most police officers hate. To knock twice in the same week at neighbouring houses feels surreal. Toby Alderton was murdered on Sunday afternoon on an icy path beside the canal in Preston. Talia Montgomery died four days later. Same location; same ending. Mr Alderton had been a well-known solicitor in the market town of Fordway. Miss Montgomery had been working at his firm for six months as part of her solicitor’s training. A young man was seen fleeing both scenes, though the two deaths appear to be unrelated. Jennifer Alderton became a very wealthy widow, perhaps a reason to kill her husband, but why would she want Talia dead? Talia had recently broken up with her boyfriend who was devastated, sure they had been about to become engaged. Was it his frustration that led to her death? But why would he murder Toby a few days before? Detective Chief Inspector Harvey Tarquin is leading the double investigation. He is sure the murders are linked and further attacks add to the conundrum. Toby Alderton, stuck in Limbo, adds his thoughts. He knows if his murder was solved the rest would follow.