One-line Summary:

“The Long Call” is a gripping mystery novel that follows Detective Matthew Venn as he investigates a complex murder case in the small coastal town of North Devon.

The Small Coastal Town of North Devon

In “The Long Call,” author Ann Cleeves introduces readers to the picturesque and close-knit community of North Devon. This small coastal town becomes the backdrop for a chilling murder investigation that will test the limits of Detective Matthew Venn’s skills and challenge his personal demons. As Cleeves expertly describes the town’s rugged beauty and the tight-knit relationships among its residents, readers are drawn into a world where secrets lurk beneath the surface.

A Complex Murder Case

When a man’s body is found on the beach, Detective Matthew Venn is called to the scene. The victim, Simon Walden, is a troubled man with a history of mental illness, making the investigation all the more challenging. As Venn delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that connect the victim to a local community center called The Woodyard. With the help of his team, Venn must navigate through a maze of potential suspects, each with their own motives and secrets to protect.

As the investigation progresses, Venn discovers that the victim’s death is not an isolated incident. Another murder, seemingly unrelated at first, adds a new layer of complexity to the case. Venn must untangle the threads connecting these crimes and uncover the truth before more lives are lost.

Matthew Venn: A Complex and Compelling Protagonist

At the heart of “The Long Call” is Detective Matthew Venn, a complex and compelling protagonist. Venn is not your typical detective; he is haunted by his past and struggles with his own identity. As a child, Venn was raised in a strict religious community, and his decision to leave that life behind has left him estranged from his family. This personal conflict adds depth to Venn’s character and influences his approach to the case.

Venn’s relationship with his husband, Jonathan, also plays a significant role in the story. As Venn grapples with his own demons, he must navigate the challenges of maintaining a healthy marriage while pursuing a demanding career. Cleeves skillfully weaves these personal elements into the narrative, creating a multi-dimensional protagonist that readers can root for.

Key Takeaways:

• The Long Call is a gripping mystery novel set in the small coastal town of North Devon.
• Ann Cleeves expertly crafts a complex murder case that challenges Detective Matthew Venn.
• The novel explores themes of identity, family, and the impact of past traumas.
• The tight-knit community of North Devon adds depth and intrigue to the story.
• Matthew Venn is a compelling protagonist with a complex personal life.

“The Long Call” is a masterfully crafted mystery novel that combines a compelling murder case with richly developed characters and a vivid setting. Ann Cleeves keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Detective Matthew Venn’s journey to uncover the truth. With its atmospheric descriptions and intricate plot, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre.