A Conspiracy of Silence: a gripping and addictive mystery thriller (DI Gillian Marsh 5)

A Conspiracy of Silence is the fifth book in the DI Gillian Marsh series and can easily be read as a standalone. What initially drew me to the book, was its striking cover and the ominous vibe it projected. It is foreboding and I was curious to know what the prestigious Wiltshire private school was hiding behind that front door. Anna Legat has put together a plot that had me very intrigued. There is something about these types of stories that are in a school setting for the rich and of entitlement for some, that I find really interesting. Added to that, the mystery element of the death of the groundsman and a missing student, makes for a very enthralling read to see how these two investigations would become connected. The characters are a diverse bunch and although not particularly likeable, they are well written for the roles they have been given to play. DI Gillian Marsh definitely had her work cut out for her with these investigations and the silence of those, including students, teachers and a very unaccommodating head master, has you second guessing each and wondering of their potential involvement. Anna Legat did a good job of making me stay glued to the pages and there was enough tension and suspense built up throughout that held my attention and wanting to know more. There were some red herrings thrown in along the way to throw you off the scent and when all is finally revealed, does make for a satisfying conclusion. As a new author to me, I did enjoy Anna Legat’s writing style which is very engaging. Just as a heads up for the reader, her writing style of jumping from one place or situation to another did have me questioning if I had missed something, but once I adjusted to the fact that this was obviously deliberate, it was much easier to go with the flow. A Conspiracy of Silence was for me a good introduction to Anna Legat’s work and is a series that I would like to continue reading, both past and future books. It was a pleasure to read and review A Conspiracy of Silence which I recommend.

Reading this is a bit like being in a maze: just as you think you've found the solution you turn a corner and find yourself utterly lost again! When the body of a young member of staff is found in the grounds of a public school, DI Gillian Marsh is called to investigate. Expecting answers to her questions, she is annoyed when the headmaster blocks her investigation at every turn. At the same time, a colleague is looking into the disappearance of a local girl. When photos of her are found on the young man's body, it links the two cases together. So what has one got to do with the other? Where's the connection? And what, if anything, is the headmaster covering up? This one kept me on my toes! I like Gillian Marsh - she doesn't suffer fools gladly, and makes no apology for that. She doesn't miss much either - a great trait for any detective! This is a very cleverly plotted book, pulling the reader in by degrees with a gripping storyline while keeping the big revelations until the very end. So very good! Skilfully created - both the story and the characters - and really hard to put down once I began. Absolutely mesmerising and such a very satisfying novel to read - with the perfect title! Anna Legat is now on my 'must not miss' list and I'm very happy to give this one all five glowing stars.