The Black Ascot

By: Charles Todd

Narrated by: Simon Prebble

Scotland Yard’s Ian Rutledge seeks a killer who has eluded Scotland Yard for years in this next installment of the acclaimed New York Times bestselling series.

An astonishing tip from a grateful ex-convict seems implausible—but Inspector Ian Rutledge is intrigued and brings it to his superior at Scotland Yard. Alan Barrington, who has evaded capture for ten years, is the suspect in an appalling murder during Black Ascot, the famous 1910 royal horserace honoring the late King Edward VII. His disappearance began a manhunt that consumed Britain for a decade. Now it appears that Barrington has returned to England, giving the Yard a last chance to retrieve its reputation and see justice done. Rutledge is put in charge of a quiet search under cover of a routine review of a cold case.

Meticulously retracing the original inquiry, Rutledge begins to know Alan Barrington well, delving into relationships and secrets that hadn’t surfaced in 1910. But is he too close to finding his man? His sanity is suddenly brought into question by a shocking turn of events. His sister Frances, Melinda Crawford, and Dr. Fleming stand by him, but there is no greater shame than shell shock. Questioning himself, he realizes that he cannot look back. The only way to save his career—much less his sanity—is to find Alan Barrington and bring him to justice. But is this elusive murderer still in England?

Story of detail complexity

Story of multiple levels of long twisting thread full of Hero’s and villains. One of the best presentations of Ian’s personality,

Rutledge and the plot

Another winner from the Charles Todd’s. Best characterization of Rutledge yet along with the intricate plot and stellar reading performance make this novel perfect.

the best of the inspector Rutledge series!

I have really enjoyed all the Inspector Rutledge books, but this one tops them all! Charles Todd has kept honing his craft, getting better with each new Rutledge book. it's great to watch the characters mature and grow and the stories get stronger and better with each new novel!

Rutledge is a great character

Good story And excellent performance. Charles Todd is an excellent author. I love this series.

One of the finest Detective series I’ve ever read

Simon Prebble is also an outstanding voice for this book series. The fact this series is written by an American mother and son is also astonishing. The series feels so grounded in early 20th century London.