Death at the White Hart

Death at the White Hart by Chris Chibnall plunges you straight into a chilling mystery in a coastal village somewhere in West Dorset. When the landlord of the local pub is found dead, staged in brutality, the quiet community of Fleetcombe is shaken to its core. As soon as Detective Sergeant Nicola Bridge returns home to Dorset, she realises that beneath the village’s tranquil exterior lies a web of lies, suspicion and hidden lives.

Chibnall’s writing draws you in with vivid atmosphere, sharp dialogue and a cast of characters who feel real, flawed and full of secrets. Nicola and her rookie partner Harry bring warmth and determination to the investigation as they untangle red herrings, simmering resentments and long-buried truths. The mystery unfolds with enough twists and complications to keep you guessing until the final reveal, and the village setting — with its cosy pub-town vibe — makes the horror of the crime all the more jarring.

More than just a standard whodunnit, Death at the White Hart is a compelling, modern crime story that captures the eerie tension of small-town life under strain. Dark, atmospheric and ultimately satisfying, it’s perfect for readers who love character-driven mysteries, strong sense of place, and finales that live with you after the last page. We’re delighted to recommend it — it’s the kind of book that keeps you turning pages well after bedtime and perfect for fans of crime fiction.

Richard