A Question of Identity by Susan Hill

Susan Hill’s Simon Serrailler novels are all set in the town of Lafferton in England.   Throughout the series we have been introduced to Simon and his family.   It’s been interesting to watch the characters develop and grow and A Question of Identity continues to flesh out the Serrailler family in a fascinating study on family dynamics while entertaining us with his most complicated murder investigation to date.

Identity is a big theme in this novel.      Obviously it’s a question of identity because Simon needs to identify a killer who seems to be invisible.  But it’s also a question of identity for Simon’s sister who is trying to make a life for herself after the death of her husband.  It’s a question of identity for the woman who loves Simon yet is bound to her ill and dying husband.  It’s a question of identity for Simon’s 14 year old nephew who seems to be morphing into the opposite of who he has been.    Surprisingly in a way the only person not questioning his identity in this novel seems to be Simon himself.     He has a handle on his job, his love and his life. 

This is not really a whodunit as the reader knows early on who Simon is looking for.  In between chapters is a chilling look into the mind of the killer which helps to move the plot along.   It is a good police procedural with lots of twists and turns. 

I enjoyed this novel and look forward to more of the Serrailler family drama in future stories.  You can read other reviews of her books here and here.