The Sweet Smell of Rain

Present day Tyneside and Northumberland provide the setting for ‘The Sweet Smell of Rain’ the début novel by former Detective Ian Douthwaite. We follow the daily exploits of Detective Sergeant Jim Hodder, a man who is battle-weary, downtrodden and careworn, and whose countless shortcomings lead him into an endless cycle of confrontations with criminals, victims, colleagues and indeed, the world in general. A man nearing the end of his service, he is not so much resistant to change, just tired by it. Hodder has seen the wheel re-invented so many times, that the pedestrian pace of life that the was planning for his impending retirement seems positively appealing. However, due to his inability to turn a blind eye, an uncontrollable urge to act impulsively whilst trying to appear to be in control of any situation, he sets a precedence at digging deeper, darker holes from which he has to extricate himself with unremitting regularity.When we first meet Hodder he is interviewing Dean Parks, a low level thorn in the side, who is in custody for a serious sexual assault. Hodder erroneously thinks that the case is a mere ‘stroll in the park’ and that matters will be wrapped up in no time. However, Parks would prove to be quite a formidable opponent showing himself to be manipulative, cunning and more than just a little bit evil. Furthermore, Hodder did not factor in the influence of Parks’solicitor the tweed clad, whisky swilling Francis Randall-Ord, a man with many ‘connections’, not all of whom would meet with the approval of the Law Society. However, as with all things Hodder, things rarely go smoothly, and against orders, he is soon very deeply immersed in an investigation that may have serious consequences not only for himself, but also for those closest to him. Throw into this mix the internal politics of a busy C.I.D. office, a boss who is constantly on his back, a crumbling marriage and two opposing Crime Lords, both of whom want Parks for different reasons. To this potent brew, add backstabbing, double dealing with more than a hint of corruption. And all this before Hodder even leaves the office! ‘The Sweet Smell of Rain’ is written with a gritty realism and a darkly dramatic but understated humour. Featuring some of the regions’ most iconic landmarks, the story is populated with numerous memorable characters and situations. Hodder’s North East is not one you are likely to find in any guide book.. However, one question remains: ‘ Is this another situation that a Police Officer can’t make any worse’?

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