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Detective Andy Dalziel is an idiosyncratic, no-nonsense copper with a penetrating wit and questionable personal habits. Inspector Peter Pascoe is his cultured sidekick - a thoughtful "New Man" with a degree in social science, a caring attitude and a sharp brain. When they threw together these contrasting characters, few thought their talents would gel and that, sharing a passionate commitment to justice, they would forge an impressive crime-solving partnership and a tentative friendship.
Ruling Passion
Visiting old friends in rural Oxfordshire, Pascoe and a pregnant Ellie discover the bodies of their hostess Rose and two of her guests, all shot dead. Back in Yorkshire, Dalziel is investigating a series of burglaries, in which the thief leaves a bizarre a calling card.
A Killing Kindness
A serial killer, known as "The Choker" has struck for the third time. After every slaying, the killer provides the local newspaper with a line from Shakespeare's Hamlet. As Pascoe tries to come to terms with fatherhood, he and Dalziel find themselves under pressure.
Deadheads
When Dick Elgood accuses one of his employees, Rose-enthusiast Patrick Alderman, of trying to murder him, Pascoe's investigations reveal a trail of suspicious deaths. Meanwhile, attending a police conference, Dalziel attempts to rekindle an old flame.
Exit Lines
Just as his home life falls into turmoil, Peter is forced to investigate his boss after a DUI accident. While he's being investigated, Andy develops a friendship with the Pheasant shooting set - but it turns out he's the one doing the investigating.
Colin Buchanan