A Day of Judgment

Inspector Ian Rutledge Mysteries, Book 25

July, 1921: England is suffering a heatwave and the coast of Northumberland, just across the border from Scotland, is filled with holiday-makers bird watching and enjoying the beaches. Pilgrims also come to visit the home of Saints Cuthbert and Aiden—the founders of Christianity in England—located on the "Holy Island" of Lindisfarne, accessible by a causeway at low tide.

When the murdered body of a local man washes ashore just south of Lindisfarne, the government and the Church of England are concerned about protecting both the reputation of the Church and the sacred sites that are a destination for hundreds of pilgrims at this time of year. With his ability to move in the highest social and political circles, Rutledge is sent by Scotland Yard to solve this crime and dispel any association with the Church.

Facing a puzzling case and a cast of locals that don't take kindly to outsiders, the newly promoted Rutledge meets one of the most challenging cases of his career. To solve it, he'll also have to confront his own demons left over from his time in the war.

©2026 Charles Todd (P)2026 Highbridge Audio

Leaves you wanting more

The plot is a little thin. The descriptions of Rutledge’s activities a little too detailed.
For example, a big deal is made of certain details and you assume they will play into the plot but they never do.
With the descriptions of how he starts the car each time I could do it in my sleep. And he is awash in bitters and tea.
The anti-German plot could have been woven in better.
But, all that being said, I love this series and am dreading when Charles Todd eventually puts away his typewriter. Ian’s psychological struggles are so well drawn. It is a cut above most mystery stories.

5stars

I really enjoy this Audible book and the narrator was outstanding.
cannot wait for the next series.

Not my favorite, but still a good read

I have read or listened to all of the books in the series. My only issue with this one, is that it dragged toward the end. It was obvious who the killer was 3/4 of the way through. I thought the end was a bit anti-climactic.

Charles Todd Always a Good Read

Well written with strong characters and plot. Simon Vance a very strong performer. Charles Todd books always a pleasure to read or listen to on Audible.

Wonderful!

Another immersive mystery from this author writing without his dearly departed co author mother. Fantastic series. One of the very best. Simon Vance does his usual stellar narration.