THY BROTHER DEATH

Patrick Carey, a middle-aged lecturer in biochemistry at Knotlington University in northern England, lives quietly with his wife, Henrietta; meanwhile, he's trying to get along with temperamental professor Margaret Franks, head of the department, and is rarely in touch with his ne'er-do-well brother David. Then the sudden appearance of Emma Anderson, whom David—now vanished- -had married a year ago, using Patrick's name, sets off a tragic string of events that involve Emma's death and the torching of Professor Franks's home. There's a great deal of soul-searching, vapid conversation, and consumption of food and drink before the villain behind it all is unmasked—with minimal help from Detective Inspector Brightmore. A mildly insightful look into the academic world scarcely relieves the tedium. Ho-hum work by veteran Ferrars (Danger from the Dead, etc., etc.).