Summary
In Last Orders, the second book in Ted Tayler‘s The Freeman Files series, retired detective Gus Freeman takes on a haunting cold case: the murder of Trudi Villiers, a 26-year-old barmaid who was raped and killed while walking home from the Ring O’Bells pub in October 2003. The case, long unsolved, is revisited by Freeman and his newly-formed Crime Review Team, consisting of three unique and capable detectives.
As the team delves into Trudi’s life, they uncover a web of secrets involving her relationships, her family and her workplace. From her best friend Krystal to her numerous ex-boyfriends, the suspects are many and motives abound. Was this a crime of passion or a random act of violence? Freeman’s meticulous approach to police work ensures that no stone is left unturned.
Beyond the investigation, Freeman’s personal life adds depth to the narrative. The murder of a close friend pulls him into another case, but being retired limits his involvement. This subplot adds tension and stakes to an already gripping story.
Last Orders stands out for its detailed depiction of police procedures and its focus on character development. Tayler masterfully balances intense investigative work with moments of humour and humanity, creating a compelling mystery with a shocking twist.
Key Themes
- Justice and morality in solving cold cases
- The psychological toll of crime on victims and investigators
- Teamwork and mentorship in high-stakes environments
- The complexity of human relationships and hidden truths
Character Details
Gus Freeman
Gus is a retired detective brought back to lead the Crime Review Team. With decades of experience, he is methodical, patient and deeply empathetic. Despite his retirement, Gus remains driven by a strong sense of justice. His ability to mentor his team while pursuing the truth makes him the backbone of the investigation.
DS Alex Hardy
Alex is a former police pursuit motorcyclist recovering from a high-speed accident that left him temporarily wheelchair-bound. His resilience and sharp mind make him an invaluable asset to the team. Alex’s physical limitations do not hinder his determination to contribute meaningfully to the case.
DS Neil Davis
Neil is a bright young detective with deep ties to the Wiltshire police force through his family. His father was part of the original investigation into Trudi’s murder, adding a personal dimension to his involvement. Neil is diligent and eager to prove himself.
Lydia Logan Barre
Lydia is a 25-year-old forensic psychology graduate who brings fresh perspectives to the team. Outspoken and fiercely competitive, she is learning under Gus’s tutelage while proving her worth as an investigator.
Trudi Villiers (Victim)
Trudi was a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short. Her complex personal life – marked by multiple relationships – becomes central to understanding her murder.
Reader Fit
This book will appeal to fans of:
- Police procedurals with intricate plots
- Character-driven mysteries
- Readers who enjoy series like Peter Robinson’s Inspector Banks or Ann Cleeves’ Vera
- Those who appreciate stories blending suspense with emotional depth
Quick Facts
Genre: Mystery/Crime
Publication Year: 2020
Reading Time Estimate: ~6–8 hours
Notable Awards: None listed
Related Books
- The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths – A gripping mystery featuring cold cases and complex characters.
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson – A dark tale of murder investigations with strong character dynamics.
- Dead Simple by Peter James – A procedural thriller with unexpected twists.
Buy the Book
Dive into Last Orders today for an unforgettable journey through secrets, lies and justice!
