The Long Call A Detective Matthew Venn Novel Ann Cleeves

When Murder Knocks at the Door

Picture this: You're on your third cup of coffee, the kids are off to school, and you're about to dive into the day's chores. Suddenly, there's a knock at the door. It's not the postman, or the neighbor dropping by for a chat. No, it's Murder, standing there with a puzzled look on its face, wondering why it wasn't invited to your book club.

That's exactly what happens to Detective Matthew Venn in Ann Cleeves' "The Long Call". But unlike your average visitor, Murder doesn't come bearing gifts or gossip. It brings a body, and a whole lot of questions that need answering.

Meet Matthew Venn, Your New Neighbor

Now, you might be thinking, "Who's this Matthew Venn guy, and why's he so popular with the local crime scene?" Well, Matthew's not your average detective. He's a man of faith, a husband, and a newcomer to the picturesque North Devon coast. He's also got a past that's as twisty as the coastal path he loves to walk.

Think of him as the new kid on the block, trying to fit in while also trying to solve a murder. It's like when you moved into your neighborhood, and everyone was curious about your strange habits (like drinking coffee at 7 AM, or reading crime novels in the garden).

Murder's a Real Party Pooper

So, Murder shows up, and Matthew's got a body on his hands. The victim? A man found dead in a remote cove, with no ID and no clear cause of death. It's like finding a stranger passed out in your driveway after a wild party - except this party ended in tragedy.

Matthew's got his work cut out for him. He's got to navigate the tight-knit community, deal with his own personal demons, and figure out who wanted this man dead. It's like trying to solve a puzzle while everyone's looking over your shoulder, offering their own pieces and opinions.

Coffee, Cake, and Corpses

Ann Cleeves has a way of making murder feel like a cozy chat over tea. Her writing is like that friend who can spin a yarn about the weirdest things, making you laugh and gasp in equal measure. She paints North Devon as a character itself, with its own quirks and secrets.

Cleeves weaves a tale that's as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly day, yet as thrilling as a rollercoaster ride. It's like she's inviting you to a crime-solving party, where the guest of honor is always a corpse, and the host is always Murder.

Join the Party

So, if you've ever wondered what it's like to be a detective, or if you've ever had a nosy neighbor who seemed a bit too interested in your business, "The Long Call" is the book for you. It's a murder mystery that feels like a conversation with an old friend, filled with laughter, tears, and a healthy dose of suspense.

And who knows? Maybe after reading it, you'll start looking at your own neighborhood with a new perspective. You might even find a body or two (metaphorically speaking, of course). But remember, if you do, don't invite Murder in for coffee. It's got a tendency to leave a mess.