Devices and Desires by P. D. James

“Devices and Desires” is a detective novel by P.D. James, first published in 1989. It features the character of Commander Adam Dalgliesh, a detective with Scotland Yard, who is sent to investigate a series of murders in a small coastal town in Norfolk, England.

The novel is notable for its complex plot and psychological depth, as well as its atmospheric setting and strong sense of place. James uses multiple narrators to provide different perspectives on the events of the story, which helps to build tension and suspense.

The plot revolves around the murder of a local woman, Sally Jupp, and the subsequent discovery of her connection to a wealthy and influential family, the Maxies. As Dalgliesh delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that threaten to tear the Maxie family apart.

James skillfully explores the themes of power, class, and morality in “Devices and Desires,” and her characters are well-drawn and complex. The novel is also notable for its strong sense of place, with James evoking the rugged beauty of the Norfolk coast and the insular nature of small-town life.

Overall, “Devices and Desires” is a gripping and sophisticated crime novel that showcases James’s skill as a writer and her ability to create complex and memorable characters. It is a must-read for fans of the detective genre and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted and thought-provoking mystery.