The Sleeping and the Dead

The Sleeping and the Dead is a gripping mystery that delves into the complexities of memory, trauma, and the shadows of the past. Set against the haunting backdrop of Northumberland, the story follows detective Peter Porteous as he embarks on an unsettling investigation into a body discovered at Cranwell Lake. This corpse, identified as Michael Grey, a teenager who vanished in 1972, unearths a long-buried secret that reverberates through the lives of those connected to him.

The Plot

The discovery of Michael's remains sends shockwaves through the community, particularly for Hannah Morton, a prison officer who was Michael's girlfriend at the time of his disappearance. As the investigation unfolds, Hannah is compelled to confront her own memories and the unresolved grief that has haunted her for decades. The narrative intricately weaves between the present and the past, highlighting how trauma can linger and shape lives in unexpected ways.

Themes

• Memory: The novel explores how memories can be both a refuge and a prison.
• Loss: It delves into the emotional toll of losing someone without closure.
• Trauma: The story examines the long-lasting impact of unresolved issues on individual lives.

"A haunting tale that resonates long after the last page is turned."

Fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven narratives will find The Sleeping and the Dead a compelling read, echoing the emotional depth found in works by authors such as Kate Atkinson and Tana French. The writing style is both evocative and immersive, drawing readers into the intricate layers of the characters' lives and the chilling mystery at the heart of the story.