The Coroner, by M R Hall (Panmacmillan, £10).

We've had maverick police officers, private eyes, pathologists and even judges so it was only a matter of time before someone decided to focus on a coroner.

Despite being unable to function without the regular intake of a prescription drug, newly-appointed Jenny Cooper is soon tackling suspicious deaths, corruption and family crises.

In less than a few weeks she manages to re-open an inquest; carry out interviews herself; hold full hearings into two deaths; find a lover; get arrested, suspended and reinstated; beaten up ...and investigate the death of the previous coroner.

As well as being impressed, I was exhausted when it was all over.

Seriously, it is great to have such a woman of our times showing her mettle.

Ms Cooper lives in picturesque Monmouthshire, like the author, and the scene would be appear to be set for subsequent adventures. Potential television producers will no doubt also be giving it the once over.