Sub-category: Murder/Mystery
The plot: Picking up from the success of solving a 50 year old murder, Banks is suprised when his nemesis and boss, Chief Constable Riddle, calls him in to assist him on a personal matter. Somewhat on guard, Banks undertakes to complete the mission Riddle has set him, but not realising that its completion is only the beginning.
Comment: I must admit, this book initially trundled along, a nice little tale, but not really going anywhere although the charcaters were being fleshed out alongside minor daily life. And then, suddenly, quite shocklingly, Robinson links them all in an explosive bombshell. The rest of the book makes for compelling reading as Banks tries to unravel the mystery behind a high profile murder case.

Sub-category: Murder/Mystery
The plot: Detective Chief Inspector Alan Banks has fallen out of favor with those above him. So he isn't the least bit surprised when his supervisor assigns him to investigate the discovery of some bones that have appeared in a the drowned remains of a village, revealed by an excessively dry summer. Despite the lack of clues, Banks finds that there is a trail and possibly even, people who may be able to solve the crime.
Comment: I picked up this book figuring if it had been shortlisted for the Edgar Allan Poe Award 1999, then it couldn't be too bad. As it turned out, it wasn't. It didn't do anything to stand head and shoulders above the other murder/mystery books being churned out of Britain, but Robinson develops his characters and plot thoughtfully - and saves not one, but two twists for the last page - although the trail is littered with clues along the way. If you want a decent murder/mystery book to while away a weekend, then you won't go wrong with this one.