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Slater & Norman Mystery #9
Death of a Pensioner
Please note, this book was previously published as What’s in a Name?
Meet ex-detectives Slater and Norman, an unlikely crime-solving duo. They might seem like they have nothing in common, except a love of doughnuts and banter. But they never give up on a case, no matter how tough things get . . .
A frail pensioner found dead in his home. A random break-in. A mysterious disappearance.
‘My name’s Rosie Hewitt,’ says the small, fair-haired woman, sitting down at their table. ‘I was told you were the best people to talk to.’ It’s a typically busy Monday lunchtime in the Brewer’s Arms — and ex-detectives Slater and Norman have their first case.
A few weeks earlier, Rosie’s neighbour Joe Dalgetty was found dead in his hallway. A heart attack. He was only sixty-two.
Something doesn’t add up.
Two weeks before he died, Joe changed his will — leaving everything to Rosie. And, for a pensioner who lived on the breadline, he left a surprisingly large amount of money.
Four weeks after his death, someone ransacked Joe’s home. But nothing was taken.
Then someone broke into Rosie’s home next door — but left the cash in the kitchen drawer untouched
Slater and Norman start digging — and discover that no one by the name of Joe Dalgetty ever existed.
And what happened to the previous owner of the house, who disappeared one day in the middle of laying a patio?
The more Slater and Norman dig, the murkier the mystery becomes.
Meet ex-detectives Slater and Norman, an unlikely crime-solving duo. They might seem like they have nothing in common, except a love of doughnuts and banter. But they never give up on a case, no matter how tough things get . . .
A frail pensioner found dead in his home. A random break-in. A mysterious disappearance.
‘My name’s Rosie Hewitt,’ says the small, fair-haired woman, sitting down at their table. ‘I was told you were the best people to talk to.’ It’s a typically busy Monday lunchtime in the Brewer’s Arms — and ex-detectives Slater and Norman have their first case.
A few weeks earlier, Rosie’s neighbour Joe Dalgetty was found dead in his hallway. A heart attack. He was only sixty-two.
Something doesn’t add up.
Two weeks before he died, Joe changed his will — leaving everything to Rosie. And, for a pensioner who lived on the breadline, he left a surprisingly large amount of money.
Four weeks after his death, someone ransacked Joe’s home. But nothing was taken.
Then someone broke into Rosie’s home next door — but left the cash in the kitchen drawer untouched
Slater and Norman start digging — and discover that no one by the name of Joe Dalgetty ever existed.
And what happened to the previous owner of the house, who disappeared one day in the middle of laying a patio?
The more Slater and Norman dig, the murkier the mystery becomes.
- GenresMystery
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2017
840 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
P.F. Ford
55 books240 followersHaving spent most of his life trying to be what everyone else wanted him to be, P.F. (Peter) Ford was a late starter when it came to writing. He had tried writing a novel many years ago (before the advent of self-publishing), only to be turned down by every publisher he approached. It was very much a case of being told by those around him, ‘now you know you can’t write, so get back to work!’
Even at an early age, Peter felt very much like the proverbial square peg being forced into a round hole. This resulted in the creation of a Grammar School drop-out who then drifted through a succession of unfulfilling jobs, finally ending up in a totally unsuitable role which eventually sapped his energy and self-confidence. There followed a brief foray into self-employment (not a good idea for someone lacking in self-confidence!) which ended in total financial melt-down, a mountain of debt, and a lapse into depression.
Faced with the fact that he’d never be happy as he was, Peter finally decided he had no intention of continuing that way, and things just had to change. This was achieved by closing the door on his old life and starting over. Fast forward a few years and you find a man transformed, his newly found positive attitude enabling him to find new partner (now wife), Mary, who shares his belief that dreamers should be encouraged and not denied.
He first wrote, (under the name Peter Ford), and self-published , several short books about the life changing benefits of positive thinking. Now, completely free of the hindrance of worrying about what other people think, he’s blissfully happy writing the D.S. Dave Slater mystery novels and what he calls the ‘digital fiction marmite’ (people tend to love it or hate it!) that is the Alfie Bowman Novella series.
Peter and Mary recently completed a shared dream when they married and moved to a beautiful region of Wales where they spend much of their spare time walking their three dogs, and relaxing and having fun with friends. They believe they are living proof that you should never give up on your dreams, because it’s never too late!
Even at an early age, Peter felt very much like the proverbial square peg being forced into a round hole. This resulted in the creation of a Grammar School drop-out who then drifted through a succession of unfulfilling jobs, finally ending up in a totally unsuitable role which eventually sapped his energy and self-confidence. There followed a brief foray into self-employment (not a good idea for someone lacking in self-confidence!) which ended in total financial melt-down, a mountain of debt, and a lapse into depression.
Faced with the fact that he’d never be happy as he was, Peter finally decided he had no intention of continuing that way, and things just had to change. This was achieved by closing the door on his old life and starting over. Fast forward a few years and you find a man transformed, his newly found positive attitude enabling him to find new partner (now wife), Mary, who shares his belief that dreamers should be encouraged and not denied.
He first wrote, (under the name Peter Ford), and self-published , several short books about the life changing benefits of positive thinking. Now, completely free of the hindrance of worrying about what other people think, he’s blissfully happy writing the D.S. Dave Slater mystery novels and what he calls the ‘digital fiction marmite’ (people tend to love it or hate it!) that is the Alfie Bowman Novella series.
Peter and Mary recently completed a shared dream when they married and moved to a beautiful region of Wales where they spend much of their spare time walking their three dogs, and relaxing and having fun with friends. They believe they are living proof that you should never give up on your dreams, because it’s never too late!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 1, 2017
Have just finished Book 9 in the David Slater series by p.f. Ford, thoroughly enjoyed reading this series from Book 1 through to Book 9. Down to earth characters, realistic plots and sequence of events are just some of the reasons I am recommending this author to other readers of crime. Looking forward to next book in the series. In the meantime I have a chance to read p.f. Ford’s other writings.
December 10, 2023
What's in a name, plenty of trouble ?
Well to be fair, this book 9 certainly was not what I was expecting, the author created so many twists and turns and a few red herrings that at times I was going in one direction then following others, enjoyed the plot with all its options and the introduction of the new characters to keep the readers on their toes , another reason for following their other antics
Well to be fair, this book 9 certainly was not what I was expecting, the author created so many twists and turns and a few red herrings that at times I was going in one direction then following others, enjoyed the plot with all its options and the introduction of the new characters to keep the readers on their toes , another reason for following their other antics
January 26, 2017
Better than some of the previous entries in the series, but it's difficult to believe that Slater was so dumb as to get involved with DI Goodnews, who certainly wasn't good news. Now though, it appears that a new job awaits. I just hope Norman continues to be featured since he's my favorite character.
June 14, 2021
I can't understand how someone as completely intellectually deficient as Dave Slater could be considered any sort of hero protagonist. He is a total idiot, with the personality of a blancmange and the impulse control of a four year old. Repellent. And no character development at all throughout the series. Ugh
April 12, 2022
Who would have thought
That "love" would make someone do crazy illegal things? Well, maybe not love, but more like an obsession! This was an outstanding book. Great original story line, crazy sub plot, and just when it would twist one way, it turned way around the other way. I am loving watching these characters evolve, and I'm enjoying the new addition! Great series!
That "love" would make someone do crazy illegal things? Well, maybe not love, but more like an obsession! This was an outstanding book. Great original story line, crazy sub plot, and just when it would twist one way, it turned way around the other way. I am loving watching these characters evolve, and I'm enjoying the new addition! Great series!
July 3, 2022
Goodnews ruins another one
It won’t take the reader long to read Goodnews is bad news, she has Ben a downer to the series.
Slater himself is proving to be anything but a good PI or detective. SPOLIER
When the neighbor gives his take, Slater is so sure of things. Heck I knew who it was right a way. My knowing and probably most readers too, just makes Slater look dumb
It won’t take the reader long to read Goodnews is bad news, she has Ben a downer to the series.
Slater himself is proving to be anything but a good PI or detective. SPOLIER
When the neighbor gives his take, Slater is so sure of things. Heck I knew who it was right a way. My knowing and probably most readers too, just makes Slater look dumb
December 18, 2022
Wow!!! I made out like a bandit!!! Two great stories in one book of course they tied together, but it was still great!! Maybe one of the reasons these books still have so much freshness is because the author is willing to change; change the circumstances that his main characters find themselves and a change of character, a growth to a better person. I look forward to many more books to read!!
June 14, 2024
Entertaining series
I've been binging on this series and I'm sorry to have reached the end, at least for now. These are best read in order, the story is continuing. The characters are interesting and so are the plots. There are big changes and unfinished business at the end of this so I'm hoping for more.
I've been binging on this series and I'm sorry to have reached the end, at least for now. These are best read in order, the story is continuing. The characters are interesting and so are the plots. There are big changes and unfinished business at the end of this so I'm hoping for more.
September 7, 2024
Murder mystery with unusual twists
Simple plot becoming complicated ended up with lust, greed, love and hate relationship between men and women. Main character Slater is a weak man and policeman jumping to bed with several women and making immature statements at the wrong time, quite disappointing.
Simple plot becoming complicated ended up with lust, greed, love and hate relationship between men and women. Main character Slater is a weak man and policeman jumping to bed with several women and making immature statements at the wrong time, quite disappointing.
December 15, 2024
In this one a mystery man sends someone to Slater and Norman for their detective services. A pensioner dies, the police aren’t interested but Slater and Norman take on the case. Slater is offered a different job, will he take that rather than working with Norman? One of the twists was rather obvious but there were still plenty of mysteries left…
September 28, 2025
Another great story from this author
As always a fast moving and suspenseful story featuring of my two favourite detectives. Slater and Norman looking into what appears to be fairly straightforward case that takes them down a dangerous rabbit hole. It deserved the 5 stars given it.
As always a fast moving and suspenseful story featuring of my two favourite detectives. Slater and Norman looking into what appears to be fairly straightforward case that takes them down a dangerous rabbit hole. It deserved the 5 stars given it.
May 23, 2020
Really,really like these books
I can't help it book nine done already. Another convoluted mystery solved. Dave a d Norm with all their problems with humour and excellent interactions solved who,what,where and when with panache plus managed to fall in love 💘.
I can't help it book nine done already. Another convoluted mystery solved. Dave a d Norm with all their problems with humour and excellent interactions solved who,what,where and when with panache plus managed to fall in love 💘.
September 28, 2021
A very good story,
Marred by over writing it. Repeated dialogue slow down the story. However, worth reading, and following. It takes talent to keep thins straight over so many books.
Marred by over writing it. Repeated dialogue slow down the story. However, worth reading, and following. It takes talent to keep thins straight over so many books.
June 15, 2024
Another fast moving tale in this series
This book has a very transional feel because of the changes in the situation of Slater and Norman. Change is very much the theme of the book, with some interesting new characters introduced and some from the past returning.
This book has a very transional feel because of the changes in the situation of Slater and Norman. Change is very much the theme of the book, with some interesting new characters introduced and some from the past returning.
August 16, 2024
Good one
I'm enjoying this series. While light it's well written and an easy read. Occasionally falls into the totally bad vs totally nice characters but I can forgive it for the generally good read.
I'm enjoying this series. While light it's well written and an easy read. Occasionally falls into the totally bad vs totally nice characters but I can forgive it for the generally good read.
November 17, 2024
This was such a fun book! So much has happened. The start of a new and twisty case , with gangsters murders and Los of false identities. A romance for both dag and Norm. A job offer for save and a new sidekick. Ohyeah, and a fire too!
January 1, 2025
Not one of the best by P.F. Ford
I’ve enjoyed reading these mysteries books, but this wasn’t one of his best. It’s a good story but presented in a convoluted, repetitive way, with another story thrown in at the end. I hope I like the next one better.
I’ve enjoyed reading these mysteries books, but this wasn’t one of his best. It’s a good story but presented in a convoluted, repetitive way, with another story thrown in at the end. I hope I like the next one better.
January 16, 2017
Well that was one great story, from beginning to end an extremely enjoyable read, shame I've finished the book....
Looking for the next book...
SherleyB
Looking for the next book...
SherleyB
January 18, 2017
I love this series.
From the beginning the characters were real and funny. Everyone has flaws and the incidents are unusual. I am awaiting the next level in his new life.
From the beginning the characters were real and funny. Everyone has flaws and the incidents are unusual. I am awaiting the next level in his new life.
October 24, 2017
Brilliant Fun
This series gets better with each book. I love how the characters relate to each other and that they are all flawed but believable. More, please!
This series gets better with each book. I love how the characters relate to each other and that they are all flawed but believable. More, please!
November 6, 2017
Really good
The only complaint Of have with Mr. Ford is he doesn't write fast enough. When I finish one book, I want another waiting for me.
The only complaint Of have with Mr. Ford is he doesn't write fast enough. When I finish one book, I want another waiting for me.
July 26, 2018
3.5 stars. May be a bit simplistic.
August 22, 2018
Another fun read
I really enjoy reading about Norman and Slater. It is like visiting old friends. This story is both believable and heartwarming. Give it a go!
I really enjoy reading about Norman and Slater. It is like visiting old friends. This story is both believable and heartwarming. Give it a go!
December 14, 2019
Good one.
April 29, 2020
Very good read. Plot a bit convoluted but a good cast of characters. The interaction between them is well done and often witty.
Would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a ‘good read’.
Would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a ‘good read’.
October 18, 2020
love the series
January 30, 2022
Good mystery
If you like a lighthearted mystery this is it. He has a little of O'Henry in his characters and story. I enjoy the change no blood and gore just a good mystery
If you like a lighthearted mystery this is it. He has a little of O'Henry in his characters and story. I enjoy the change no blood and gore just a good mystery
May 4, 2022
The stories get better and better
Who would have thought Goodnews would have turned the way she did? Hopefully Norm goes on a diet. I'm glad Slater is going back to the polis.
Who would have thought Goodnews would have turned the way she did? Hopefully Norm goes on a diet. I'm glad Slater is going back to the polis.
January 25, 2023
Great read
I thoroughly enjoy the way P F Ford writes his books and the more I read of them the more I enjoy.
I thoroughly enjoy the way P F Ford writes his books and the more I read of them the more I enjoy.
May 10, 2023
Review written for Box Set
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews