A Mind to Murder is a detective/crime novel by P.D. James.     It is the second book of fourteen in the popular Adam Dalgliesh series (1962 – 2008).    All of the books are skilfully written, following a classic British mystery style.    In this case, the murder takes place in the Steen Psychiatric Clinic and because of locked doors, the murderer must be one of the staff.    Much of the story is slow-moving as Dalgleish interviews everyone and follows potential leads.     The author delves into the lives of all of the main characters and she provides small clues for the reader.    The plot moves to a climax with Dalgliesh closing in and a second victim at risk.   The mystery is not much of a surprise, but we read her novels not for surprises or thrills, but for the high level of craft in storytelling.

A recommended book, although there are better P.D. James mysteries.    4.3 out of 5.0 stars4.3

Notes:

• I have read most of P.D. James mysteries.
• A Mind to Murder has been made into a movie by ITV.    It can be viewed on You Tube – link and on Acorn TV