The Chemistry of Death by Simon Beckett

Summary

They say when a man is tired of London he is tired of life. Not so in the case of David Hunter. Seeking refuge as a GP in a sleepy Norfolk village he discovers that in time his past will return. Chief Inspector Mackenzie needs his help when two boys make a macabre discovery. Helping the boy’s recover falls to him as well, as it does to their schoolteacher Jenny Hammond.

The Reverend Scarsdale takes a simple view of events. Offering challenges in place of words of comfort he seizes the opportunity to help his flock. The direct action he suggests is a gift to Carl Brenner, a man who knows every path through the reed beds and the countryside around the village. A self appointed vigilante he has scores to settle. When Jenny goes missing it has become personal for David Hunter.