Plot:

The Lighthouse Murders is a crime novel featuring DCI Lesley Clarke investigating the death of escaped prisoner Trevor Hamm, whose body is found at Portland Bill lighthouse. As Clarke and her team investigate, they uncover connections to a Birmingham gang and corruption within the Dorset police force, while also dealing with the arrest of DS Dennis Frampton for a previous murder.

The Crime:

Trevor Hamm, a notorious criminal from Birmingham, escapes during a prison transfer on the Isle of Portland. His body is later discovered inside Portland Bill lighthouse, having been poisoned with MDMA. A second victim, Samuel "Zee" Watson, is found stabbed to death in a nearby beach hut. The investigation reveals that Watson was part of the gang that broke Hamm out of prison. Clarke's team uncovers evidence linking the crimes to a Birmingham gang called the Brum Boys and discovers that Dawn Stephens, an employee at the lighthouse, helped the killers access the building.

Sub Plots:

1. DS Dennis Frampton's arrest: Frampton is charged with the murder of his former boss, DCI Tim Mackie. Clarke believes Frampton is innocent and her wife, Elsa Short, takes on his legal defense.
2. Police corruption: Evidence emerges suggesting corruption within the Dorset police force, potentially involving officers from Professional Standards and local CID.
3. Birmingham gang activity: The investigation delves into the activities of the Brum Boys gang and their connection to Hamm's former criminal empire.

Main characters:

1. DCI Lesley Clarke
2. DS Dennis Frampton
3. Elsa Short (Clarke's wife)
4. Superintendent Anthony Carpenter
5. DI Rowan Angus
6. DI Robert Collingwood
7. Dawn Stephens
8. Sadie Dawes (journalist)

Relationship development:

• Clarke and Frampton: Clarke supports Frampton through his arrest and works to prove his innocence.
• Clarke and Elsa: Their relationship is tested as Elsa takes on Frampton's case and they navigate professional boundaries.
• Clarke and Carpenter: Their relationship evolves from antagonistic to cautiously cooperative as Carpenter encourages Clarke to investigate police corruption.
• Frampton and Elsa: Elsa builds trust with Frampton as his lawyer, uncovering evidence to support his defense.
• Clarke and Sadie Dawes: They form an uneasy alliance to investigate police corruption and Mackie's death.

DCI Mackie investigation:

• Clarke discovers that Mackie continued investigating the Kelvin crime family after his retirement.
• Elsa obtains Mackie's personal notebooks, which contain coded references to police officers.
• Evidence emerges linking DI Angus and DI Collingwood to Mackie's death and ongoing corruption.
• The investigation reveals potential connections between Mackie's death, the Kelvin family, and the current murders.
• Clarke works to uncover the truth while navigating internal police politics and threats to her career.

DCI Lesley Clarke:

Introduction:
DCI Lesley Clarke is the central character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. Clarke is a highly skilled and determined detective whose personal and professional life intersect dramatically as she investigates complex crimes in the picturesque yet perilous setting of Dorset.

Overview:
Lesley Clarke serves as a Detective Chief Inspector in Dorset Police, having relocated from the West Midlands. Throughout the series, she balances her trauma from previous cases with the demands of being a top-tier investigator. Highly competent and dedicated, she leads her team with a mix of sharp intellect, unwavering determination, and a deep sense of justice.

Background:
Lesley Clarke hails from Birmingham, where she spent most of her career with the West Midlands Police. Over the years, she has built a reputation for her meticulous and effective investigative techniques. Despite facing personal challenges, including a recent bomb attack that left her with emotional scars, Clarke remains committed to her role in law enforcement. Her transfer to Dorset represents both a fresh start and a test of her resilience.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, DCI Clarke leads the investigation into the brutal murders of Trevor Hamm and Samuel Watson. As she delves into the case, Clarke navigates local resistance, uncovers financial fraud, and confronts her team's initial distrust. She faces off against hidden motives and long-buried secrets while also contending with her own personal struggles. Clarke's leadership and investigative prowess ultimately bring the truth to light, solidifying her position as an indispensable force within Dorset Police.

Basic Details:

• Name: Lesley Clarke
• Age: 46
• Place of Birth: Birmingham, England
• Current Residence: Wareham, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Bachelor's Degree in Criminology
• Weight: 70 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'8" (172 cm)
• Occupation: Detective Chief Inspector
• Income Level: Middle to High Income
• Relationship Status: Married (to Elsa Short)
• Car: Unspecified; typically uses police vehicles for work

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'8" (172 cm)
• Weight: 70 kg (approx.)
• Build: Medium, athletic
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Blue-grey
• Hair Colour: Short blonde
• Face Shape: Oval
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: Emotional scars from a previous bomb attack

Lesley Clarke emerges as a multi-dimensional character, facing her challenges head-on while never losing sight of her commitment to justice. Her resilience and skill make her a compelling figure within the Dorset Crime Series, and her evolving relationships add depth to her persona.

DS Dennis Frampton:

Introduction:
DS Dennis Frampton is a key character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. Frampton serves as DCI Lesley Clarke's trusted sidekick and represents the old guard of policing in Dorset.

Overview:
Dennis Frampton is a Detective Sergeant with Dorset Police. He embodies traditional policing values and often clashes with modern methods. Despite his initial resistance to change, Frampton proves to be a loyal and effective team member. His career faces a significant challenge when he is accused of murdering his former boss, DCI Tim Mackie.

Background:
Frampton has spent his entire career with Dorset Police, rising through the ranks to become a Detective Sergeant. He has a deep-rooted connection to the local community and a wealth of experience in local policing. Frampton's old-fashioned approach to police work, including his aversion to swearing and his use of a "swear jar," initially creates tension with DCI Clarke but eventually becomes an asset to the team.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, DS Frampton faces the most significant challenge of his career when he is arrested and charged with the murder of DCI Tim Mackie. Despite maintaining his innocence, Frampton struggles with the legal process and the potential end of his police career. His arrest becomes a central subplot, with DCI Clarke working to prove his innocence while also investigating the current murders. Frampton's integrity and past work become crucial elements in unraveling the larger conspiracy within the police force.

Basic Details:

• Name: Dennis Frampton
• Age: 59
• Place of Birth: Dorset, England
• Current Residence: Lychett Minster, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police Training College
• Weight: 80 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'10" (178 cm)
• Occupation: Detective Sergeant
• Income Level: Middle Income
• Relationship Status: Married (to Pam Frampton)
• Car: Vauxhall Astra

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'10" (178 cm)
• Weight: 80 kg (approx.)
• Build: Slightly overweight
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Brown
• Hair Colour: Grey, thinning
• Face Shape: Round
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified, but shows signs of aging

Dennis Frampton represents the clash between traditional and modern policing methods in the series. His arrest and the subsequent investigation into his innocence add a layer of complexity to the narrative, challenging the team's loyalties and forcing them to confront corruption within their own ranks.

Elsa Short:

Introduction:
Elsa Short is a significant character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. She is a criminal lawyer and the wife of DCI Lesley Clarke, playing a crucial role in both personal and professional aspects of the series.

Overview:
Elsa Short is a skilled and ambitious criminal lawyer who has recently started her own legal practice. Her legal expertise and connections to the criminal underworld often intersect with DCI Clarke's investigations, creating both opportunities and conflicts for the couple.

Background:
Elsa previously worked for a prestigious law firm in Bournemouth, where she represented various clients, including members of organized crime families. Her most notable client was Arthur Kelvin, a local crime boss. Elsa's decision to leave the firm and start her own practice stems from her desire for independence and a more ethical approach to law.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, Elsa takes on the defense of DS Dennis Frampton, who has been accused of murdering DCI Tim Mackie. Her involvement in the case creates tension in her relationship with Lesley, as they navigate the boundaries between their personal and professional lives. Elsa's legal skills and her ability to uncover crucial evidence become instrumental in the investigation of both Frampton's case and the larger conspiracy within the police force.

Basic Details:

• Name: Elsa Short
• Age: 38
• Place of Birth: London, England
• Current Residence: Wareham, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Law Degree, qualified solicitor
• Weight: 60 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'6" (168 cm)
• Occupation: Criminal Lawyer
• Income Level: High Income (fluctuating due to new practice)
• Relationship Status: Married (to DCI Lesley Clarke)
• Car: Unspecified luxury model

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'6" (168 cm)
• Weight: 60 kg (approx.)
• Build: Slim, athletic
• Skin Colour: Olive
• Eye Colour: Dark brown
• Hair Colour: Long, dark
• Face Shape: Oval
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified

Elsa Short adds complexity to the series through her legal expertise and her connections to both law enforcement and the criminal world. Her relationship with Lesley Clarke provides a personal dimension to the professional challenges they both face, while her involvement in high-profile cases often brings her into conflict with her wife's investigations.

Anthony Carpenter:

Introduction:
Superintendent Anthony Carpenter is a recurring character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. He serves as DCI Lesley Clarke's direct superior and represents the higher echelons of Dorset Police.

Overview:
Anthony Carpenter is a career-driven, politically savvy police officer who navigates the complex landscape of law enforcement management. He often finds himself caught between supporting his officers and satisfying the demands of higher authorities and the media.

Background:
Carpenter has risen through the ranks of Dorset Police over several decades. His extensive experience in both operational policing and management has earned him a reputation as a skilled administrator. However, his tendency to prioritize political considerations sometimes puts him at odds with the more direct approach of officers like DCI Clarke.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, Superintendent Carpenter initially appears to obstruct DCI Clarke's investigation, warning her off certain lines of inquiry. However, as the story progresses, he encourages her to dig deeper into police corruption, revealing a more complex agenda. Carpenter's actions regarding the release of Dawn Stephens and his handling of the investigation into DCI Mackie's death become crucial plot points, raising questions about his true motives and loyalties.

Basic Details:

• Name: Anthony Carpenter
• Age: 55
• Place of Birth: Dorchester, Dorset
• Current Residence: Dorchester, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Master's Degree in Criminal Justice
• Weight: 90 kg (approx.)
• Height: 6'0" (183 cm)
• Occupation: Superintendent, Dorset Police
• Income Level: High Income
• Relationship Status: Married
• Car: BMW 5 Series

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 6'0" (183 cm)
• Weight: 90 kg (approx.)
• Build: Stocky
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Grey
• Hair Colour: Salt and pepper, thinning
• Face Shape: Square
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified, but shows signs of stress-related aging

Anthony Carpenter embodies the complex nature of police management, often serving as both an ally and an obstacle to DCI Clarke's investigations. His actions and motivations remain ambiguous throughout much of the story, adding an element of intrigue to the series' exploration of police politics and corruption.

DI Rowan Angus:

Introduction:
DI Rowan Angus is a significant character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. He serves as a Detective Inspector in Blandford Forum CID and becomes a key figure in the investigation of multiple murders.

Overview:
Rowan Angus, known by the nickname "Beef," is a seasoned detective with a complex past. His involvement in the case raises suspicions about potential corruption within the Dorset Police force.

Background:
Angus began his career in Poole before moving to Lyme Regis and then joining the Professional Standards Department (PSD) at Winfrith. He later transferred to Blandford Forum CID. His career path suggests a varied experience in different aspects of policing. Angus was previously married to Dawn Stephens, a key witness in the current investigation, though they divorced in 2011.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, DI Angus initially appears as a peripheral figure, attending the crime scene at Portland Bill lighthouse. However, his role becomes increasingly suspicious as the investigation progresses. Forensic evidence links him to multiple crime scenes, including locations he did not officially visit. His past connection to Dawn Stephens and his attempts to interfere with evidence collection make him a prime suspect in the ongoing corruption investigation.

Basic Details:

• Name: Rowan Angus
• Age: 45
• Place of Birth: Dorset, England
• Current Residence: Blandford Forum, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police Training College
• Weight: 85 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'11" (180 cm)
• Occupation: Detective Inspector
• Income Level: Upper Middle Income
• Relationship Status: Divorced
• Car: Silver Nissan

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'11" (180 cm)
• Weight: 85 kg (approx.)
• Build: Medium
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Brown
• Hair Colour: Brown, thinning
• Face Shape: Oval
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified

DI Rowan Angus represents the potential for corruption within the police force. His actions throughout the investigation, coupled with his mysterious past and connections, make him a central figure in the unfolding mystery. The revelation of his involvement adds a layer of complexity to the case, challenging DCI Clarke's trust in her colleagues and the integrity of the police force as a whole.

DI Robert Collingwood:

Introduction:
DI Robert Collingwood is a significant character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. He serves as a Detective Inspector in the Professional Standards Department (PSD) of Dorset Police.

Overview:
Robert Collingwood, known by the codename "Challenge," is a senior officer in the PSD responsible for investigating internal police matters. His role in the series becomes increasingly complex as evidence of police corruption emerges.

Background:
Collingwood has worked in the PSD since 2008, building a reputation as a thorough and uncompromising investigator. His long tenure in this department has given him extensive knowledge of internal police operations and potential misconduct. Collingwood previously worked in CID alongside the late DCI Tim Mackie, providing him with a connection to ongoing investigations.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, DI Collingwood initially appears as part of the investigation into DS Dennis Frampton's alleged involvement in DCI Mackie's murder. However, his role becomes more ambiguous as the story progresses. Collingwood's name appears in coded references in Mackie's personal notebooks, suggesting a deeper involvement in police corruption. His attempts to interview Frampton and his interactions with DCI Clarke raise suspicions about his true motives and loyalties.

Basic Details:

• Name: Robert Collingwood
• Age: 50
• Place of Birth: Dorset, England
• Current Residence: Dorchester, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice
• Weight: 75 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'10" (178 cm)
• Occupation: Detective Inspector, Professional Standards Department
• Income Level: Upper Middle Income
• Relationship Status: Unknown
• Car: Unspecified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'10" (178 cm)
• Weight: 75 kg (approx.)
• Build: Slim
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Blue
• Hair Colour: Light brown, thinning
• Face Shape: Oval
• Distinguishing Marks: Faint birthmark on chin
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified

DI Robert Collingwood embodies the complexities and potential corruption within the police force's internal affairs department. His involvement in both past and present investigations makes him a key figure in unraveling the broader conspiracy. Collingwood's actions and motivations remain ambiguous, adding tension and intrigue to the ongoing investigation into police corruption and the murder of DCI Mackie.

Dawn Stephens:

Introduction:
Dawn Stephens is a pivotal character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. She works at the Portland Bill lighthouse and becomes entangled in the murder investigation led by DCI Lesley Clarke.

Overview:
Dawn Stephens is a complex figure with connections to both law enforcement and criminal elements. Her role as an employee at the lighthouse where Trevor Hamm's body is found makes her a key witness and suspect in the investigation.

Background:
Dawn grew up in Birmingham and later moved to Dorset. She was previously married to DI Rowan Angus, divorcing in 2011. This connection to law enforcement adds complexity to her character. Dawn has a brother, Ewan Stephens, who is involved with a Birmingham-based gang called the Brum Boys.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, Dawn plays a crucial role by allowing the killers access to the lighthouse where they dispose of Trevor Hamm's body. She initially provides a false alibi but later confesses to her involvement, claiming she was coerced due to threats against her brother. Dawn's arrest and subsequent release by Superintendent Carpenter become significant plot points. Her murder near the end of the story adds another layer of mystery to the investigation.

Basic Details:

• Name: Dawn Stephens
• Age: Late 30s
• Place of Birth: Birmingham, England
• Current Residence: Osmington, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: High School
• Weight: 65 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'6" (168 cm)
• Occupation: Lighthouse employee
• Income Level: Lower Middle Income
• Relationship Status: Divorced
• Car: Unspecified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'6" (168 cm)
• Weight: 65 kg (approx.)
• Build: Medium
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Brown
• Hair Colour: Long, dark
• Face Shape: Oval
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified

Dawn Stephens represents the complex web of relationships between criminals, law enforcement, and ordinary citizens caught in between. Her actions and eventual fate highlight the dangerous consequences of becoming involved in criminal activities. Dawn's connections to both the criminal world through her brother and the police through her ex-husband make her a pivotal figure in unraveling the broader conspiracy within the story.

Sadie Dawes:

Introduction:
Sadie Dawes is a recurring character in the Dorset Crime Series by Rachel McLean. She works as a journalist for the BBC and often becomes involved in the investigations led by DCI Lesley Clarke.

Overview:
Sadie Dawes is a tenacious and ambitious journalist known for her investigative skills and determination to uncover the truth. Her pursuit of high-profile stories frequently intersects with police investigations, creating both conflict and cooperation with law enforcement.

Background:
Sadie has established herself as a prominent local journalist in Dorset, working for the BBC. She has a reputation for thorough research and fearless reporting, often pursuing stories that others might avoid due to their sensitive or dangerous nature.

Role in this Story:
In The Lighthouse Murders, Sadie plays a significant role in investigating the death of DCI Tim Mackie. She has been looking into this case for two years and possesses information that could help exonerate DS Dennis Frampton. Sadie forms an uneasy alliance with DCI Clarke, sharing information about potential police corruption. Her interactions with Superintendent Carpenter and her research into PSD officers become crucial to uncovering the broader conspiracy within the police force.

Basic Details:

• Name: Sadie Dawes
• Age: Early 30s
• Place of Birth: Dorset, England
• Current Residence: Bournemouth, Dorset
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Bachelor's Degree in Journalism
• Weight: 58 kg (approx.)
• Height: 5'5" (165 cm)
• Occupation: BBC Journalist
• Income Level: Middle Income
• Relationship Status: Single
• Car: Skoda

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5'5" (165 cm)
• Weight: 58 kg (approx.)
• Build: Slim
• Skin Colour: Fair
• Eye Colour: Green
• Hair Colour: Red
• Face Shape: Heart-shaped
• Distinguishing Marks: None specified
• Physical Ailments or Injuries: None specified

Sadie Dawes serves as both an ally and a potential complication for DCI Clarke's investigations. Her journalistic instincts and sources often provide valuable leads, but her desire for a story sometimes puts her at odds with police procedures. Sadie's involvement in the investigation of police corruption adds depth to the narrative, offering an outsider's perspective on the internal workings of law enforcement. Her character highlights the complex relationship between the media and police in high-profile cases.