Crime and mystery: private investigator / amateur detectives

Book SynopsisEccentric antiques dealer and amateur sleuth Vivian Borne finds herself in jail - again! - when a podcast star is found dead in her hotel room in this new Trash ''n'' Treasures cozy mystery - one of the funniest cozy series going (Ellery Queen Magazine)When popular podcaster Nicole Chatterton wants an interview for Killers Caught, true-crime author Vivian Borne is overjoyed. Finally, some recognition for the sleuthing skills the septuagenarian antiques dealer and her daughter Brandy have demonstrated, solving countless crimes in their small hometown of Serenity, Iowa!Dolled up and dressed to the nines, Vivian figures the interview is going swimmingly . . . until Nicole turns the tables, accusing the mother/daughter duo of committing the very crimes they solved. Shocked and affronted - and with a spiteful tirade captured by the cameras - Vivian breaks off the interview, ejecting the rude podcaster from the premises of the Trash ''n'' Treasu

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Book SynopsisAll aboard the good ship SS Columbus for an African adventure to die for . . .February 1939. Mamie Mason isn''t enthusiastic when Bert, her husband of thirty years, persuades her to join him on an African cruise. Bert might be pining for adventure, but Mamie''s perfectly content with her comfortable life in Hills Corners, Ohio.But once the couple board the glamorous SS Columbus, Mamie has to admit - as much as it pains her - that Bert was right. Swimming in the pool, dancing under the stars, their own bedroom steward to serve their every whim . . . Mamie settles in and prepares to thoroughly enjoy all the sights that Africa has to offer, in the company of a motley collection of eccentric first-class passengers.Then Mamie witnesses something shocking - and her vacation takes a twist that neither she nor Bert could ever have predicted. Far from home, with a killer in their midst, the couple''s only choice is to turn detective.

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Book SynopsisWriter for Hire Veronica Blackstone''s latest client is found dead and police suspect a burglary gone wrong, but Veronica isn''t convinced in this intriguingly plotted mystery. As a writer for hire, Veronica Blackstone puts her keyboard to use to help others. That includes writing advertising copy for local businesses, and love letters for those needing romantic help. Tony Richards needs the latter.Debonair, charismatic, handsome, Tony seems like the last person who''d need help with love letters, but help him Veronica does . . . only Tony owes her money and won''t tell her anything about the woman she''s writing the love letters for. That''s not how Veronica normally works. When Tony is found dead, his real name is revealed as Ted Roberts. The police think his death was part of a burglary gone wrong, but Veronica isn''t convinced. Why did he lie about his name? Who were the love letters for? And could they hold the key to his death?

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Book SynopsisNew York Times bestseller Wendy Corsi Staub is back, with a new heart-warming cozy mystery set in the magical village of Lily DaleIn the quirky, picturesque lakeside community of Lily Dale, where the residents can talk to the dead, young widow Bella Jordan is the lone skeptic among believers. She doesn''t believe in ghosts . . . but after a year in the village, she would admit that her new friends do sometimes seem to know impossible things.Still, when a Black stranger dressed in old-fashioned clothing arrives unexpectedly at Bella''s guesthouse at midnight on Juneteenth, only to vanish the next day as if he''d never existed, Bella''s sure there has to be a logical explanation. One that has nothing to do with the strange warning Odelia, the medium next door, delivers from the Spirits: Beware of . . . Barry?!Bella doesn''t know a Barry, and she has enough people in her life already, what with her young son Max and their two kitties, handso

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Book SynopsisPrivate investigators Lily Raynor and Felix Wilbraham tackle a puzzling miscarriage of justice and the curious case of a missing child, in the new, gripping World''s End Bureau Victorian mystery.London, August 1881. After a difficult few months, the World''s End Investigation Bureau is thriving. Affairs, sex scandals, divorces . . . Lily Raynor is delighted to have so much work for herself and her capable assistant, Felix Wilbraham, but she can''t help wishing for a case that doesn''t involve the rich, over-indulged - and not terribly moral - upper classes. It''s a wish she soon has cause to regret.The Reverend James Jellicote arrives at the Bureau, seeking help on behalf of an elderly Jewish refugee who fled the pogroms in Russia. Yelisaveta and her young grandson arrived safely in London, only for the unspeakable to happen: eleven-year-old Yakov disappeared, without a trace. The case is impossible to refuse, but seems equally impossible

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Book SynopsisThe Bailey sisters may be the only ones able to interpret the meaning behind a bizarre series of murders in the first entry in the hilarious The Fortune Telling Mysteries series.Sisters Hope and Summer Bailey run Bailey''s Boutique, a mystic shop in Asheville, North Carolina. While Hope''s performing a palm reading a local doctor, Dylan Henshaw, bursts in, accusing them of trying to kill his patient with a tincture.The confrontation is interrupted by the arrival of the sisters'' grandmother, Gram, who announces that one of her friends has died suddenly. It looks like a simple allergic reaction . . . but why has a solitary Tarot card - the Fool - been placed on the body? When another of Gram''s friends dies in similar circumstances, with the Fool card also left at the scene, it''s surely no coincidence. Although Hope is hesitant to read the Tarot again following a recent tragedy, she might be the only one capable of deciphering the clues. Can she

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Book SynopsisWith an imposter prince claiming he is Henry Tudor, Margaret Beaufort must play the game of kings very carefully in this richly-imagined medieval mystery.Uneasy lies the head which wears the crown1472. Edward IV reigns triumphant over England and his rivals, the Lancastrians. But he is uneasy, for one true claimant remains: the young Henry Tudor, son of Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond. Henry''s continued existence worries Edward, so he hatches a plan to bring a cuckoo into the nest - an imposter prince is presented to Margaret Beaufort as her son.Margaret is no fool and knows she must play this game of kings carefully . . . When she is invited to George Neville''s beautiful home ''The Moor'' to help investigate some mysterious and gruesome murders she knows dark forces are at play. Whispers of a shadowy figure called Achitophel hang over the house''s occupants, like the impenetrable mist that descended on the battle of Barn

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Book SynopsisIn this darkly funny mystery Lexy Campbell''s first love turns up dead at the Last Ditch Motel on Thanksgiving . . . and she becomes the prime suspect!A mysterious object the size of a suitcase, all wrapped in bacon and smelling of syrup, can mean only one thing: Thanksgiving at the Last Ditch Motel. This year the motel residents are in extra-celebratory mood as the holiday brings a new arrival to the group - a bouncing baby girl. But as one life enters the Ditch, another leaves it. Menzies Lassiter has only just checked in. When resident counsellor Lexy Campbell tries to deliver his breakfast the next day, she finds him checked out. Permanently. Shocking enough if he was a stranger, but Lexy recognises that face. Menzies was her first love until he broke her heart many years ago. What''s he doing at the Last Ditch? What''s he doing dead? And how can Lexy escape the fact that she alone had the means, the opportunity - and certainly the motive -

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Book SynopsisFIVE WENT INTO THE WOODS. TWO NEVER CAME BACK.''This book reminds me of the first time I read Mystic River by Dennis Lehane. It''s THAT good.'' STEVE CAVANAGH''An incredible thriller that kept me up reading. Intense. Wickedly smart. A stunning debut from a gifted author'' ADRIAN McKINTY, bestselling author of The ChainErin Sloane was sixteen when high school senior Andre Villiers was murdered by his friends. They were her friends, too, led by the intense, charismatic Ricky Hell. Five people went into West Cypress Woods the night Andre was murdered. Only three came out.Ativan, alcohol and distance had dimmed Erin''s memories of that time. But nearly twenty years later, an ageing father will bring her home. Now a journalist, she is asked to write a story about the Southport Three and the thrill-kill murder that electrified the country. Erin''s investigation propels her cl

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Book SynopsisWHY DATE A MOUNTAIN MAN? Because he knows how to pitch a tent.TROPES: Tall, dark & (adorably) grumpy hero charmed by heroine despite himself; quirky small mountain town; gorgeous Colorado Rocky wilderness; only one sleeping bag; slow burn to clothes melting off spice; extreme competence; a few (somewhat) minor explosions.CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN MANWhen Dahlia Weathersby''s sister disappears on what should have been a simple day hike, Dahlia immediately heads deep into the Colorado Rockies to find her. Knowing she''ll never survive the mountains alone, she convinces the local hermitadorably grouchy survival expert Winston Daneto be her guide. All it takes is a good helping of Dahlia''s charmand just the teeniest bit of blackmailbefore she''s got all six-foot-something of him wrapped around her finger.Winston Dane should know better than to follow beautiful city girl Dahlia deep into the mountains, but it's not like he could let her go <

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Book Synopsis'Exceptional' Sarah Hilary ‘Don’t be ordinary, Leo. Passion has its price.’ 1883. Two young people have been killed near Portsmouth’s docks. When journalist and amateur detective Leo Stanhope arrives, the police have already dismissed the victims as a ‘molly-lad’ and a misfit. As Leo begins to investigate, what he uncovers will lead him to the dangers of the Navy shipyard, the temptations of Portsmouth’s underground nightlife – and even the family of his wife, Rosie. But can he risk the people he loves for the sake of justice? PRAISE FOR ALEX REEVE 'Highly original' Guardian 'Enthralling, exciting, extraordinary, and utterly convincing' Sarah Hilary 'An entertaining and ingenious psychological drama of gender identity enfolded within a dexterously plotted and deeply satisfying Victorian murder' Rachel Holmes 'Leo is a brilliant hero: clever and flawed, infuriating and at the same time someone I root for at every turn' Stephanie Butland 'One of the most inventive series out there' iTrade ReviewOne of the most inventive series out there * i *Leo Stanhope is a wonderful creation -- Sam BlakeYou hear and smell and taste Victorian London -- Sarah Hilary

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Book SynopsisYou Don't Know Me, the adaptation of Imran Mahmood's brilliant debut thriller, is currently one of the most screened series on Netflix! LONGLISTED FOR THE THEAKSTON OLD PECULIER CRIME NOVEL OF THE YEAR 2022 LONGLISTED FOR THE CWA GOLD DAGGER 2022 An impossible crime. A witness no-one wants to believe. 'Unforgettable ... A searing take-down of privilege, our unequal society and indeed of traditional crime whodunnits' GILLIAN MCALLISTER 'Highly original and deftly plotted, delivering a gut-punch of an ending' SUNDAY EXPRESS 'A mesmerising thriller - don't miss this one' T. M. LOGAN ________ A woman strangled in a Mayfair flat. A man fleeing the scene. Xander Shute saw it all – but the police won’t believe someone who lives on the streets. Determined to find justice for the murdered woman, Xander searches for answers. But as his recollection of the crime comes under increasing scrutiny, he is forced to confront other memories, including those from his long-buried, troubled, wealthy past. How much will he risk to understand the brutal truth? ________ 'Intelligent, imaginative and meticulously plotted, this is an author at the top of his game - simply sensational' M. W. CRAVEN 'A deftly written and nerve-jangling thriller' HERALD 'Clever, mercilessly addictive and deeply thought-provoking, I Know What I Saw blends a dynamite plot with heartfelt characterisation' CHRIS WHITAKER 'A white-knuckle ride through the tortuous labyrinth of human memory' CHRIS BROOKMYRE 'Mahmood gets deep into the psychology of a damaged man in this unusual novel, and the ending is like a blow to the gut' SUNDAY TIMES 'Heart-wrenching and jaw-dropping, I held my breath until the final word' HOLLY SEDDON 'Mahmood, following his innovative, breakout hit, You Don’t Know Me, once again delivers a twisting narrative full of surprises and blind alleys' VASEEM KHAN 'Every bit as fantastic as everyone says. Utterly gripping' THE SECRET BARRISTER 'Smart, atmospheric, poignant, and will keep you hooked' SAIMA MIR 'A tense literary thriller about the lies we persist in telling ourselves and our inability to escape our damaged pasts - packed with moments of pathos and unexpected humour' SARAH VAUGHAN 'Intelligent and thought-provoking, it marks a welcome return for a supremely talented writer' ABIR MUKHERJEE ‘What an astonishing voice Imran has created for Xander, at once intelligent, resourceful and yet also deeply flawed. I thought the complex plot was handled masterfully, and that double punch at the end was superb’ JAMES OSWALD READERS LOVE I KNOW WHAT I SAW: 'I was absolutely gripped from start to finish' 5***** review 'A fantastic rollercoaster of a read' 5***** review 'I absolutely LOVED this book ... I could not put it down, and read it all in one delicious day-long gulp! A must-read for sure' 5***** reviewTrade ReviewA mesmerising thriller - wonderful writing and a brilliantly gritty, street-level perspective. Don't miss this one -- T. M. LoganEvery bit as fantastic as everyone says. Utterly gripping -- The Secret BarristerMahmood gets deep into the psychology of a damaged man in this unusual novel, and the ending is like a blow to the gut * Sunday Times *With pace and fineness, I Know What I Saw brings together an impossible crime, a witness no one wants to believe and an unflinching study of life on the streets. Intelligent, imaginative and meticulously plotted, this is an author at the top of his game - simply sensational -- M. W. CravenIt’s a truly Hitchcockian thriller ride, a white-knuckle ride through the tortuous labyrinth of human memory -- Chris BrookmyreMahmood, following his innovative, breakout hit, You Don’t Know Me, once again delivers a twisting narrative full of surprises and blind alleys -- Vaseem KhanMahmood has a rare gift for combining hypnotic prose with a page-turning pace. A gripping and beautiful read -- Ayisha MalikSpectacular – an absolute treat -- A. A. DhandI stayed up way past lights out last night to finish what was in short a quite phenomenal novel. Having absolutely loved You Don't Know Me, I was fairly certain this one would be good too, but it was far better than I could have hoped. What an astonishing voice Imran has created for Xander, at once intelligent, resourceful and yet also deeply flawed. I thought the complex plot was handled masterfully, and that double punch at the end was superb. I thoroughly enjoyed it. -- James OswaldUnforgettable ... I didn't think Mahmood could top You Don't Know Me but he most certainly has. A searing take-down of privilege, our unequal society and indeed of traditional crime whodunnits. Mahmood writes sympathetically and intelligently about people who live on the fringes of society -- Gillian McAllisterSmart, atmospheric, poignant, and will keep you hooked -- Saima MirThis complex mystery (set on the streets of London) took my breath away. Themes of memory, privilege & identity - it’s a book that that pulls you in deep. Gripping & utterly immersive. Mahmood is a master storyteller -- Will DeanA tense literary thriller about the lies we persist in telling ourselves and our inability to escape our damaged pasts - packed with moments of pathos and unexpected humour. I believed completely in Xander Shute -- Sarah VaughanI Know What I Saw takes us on a tense, nerve-jangling journey into the world of Xander Shute who believes he’s witnessed a murder, but also makes us question our own preconceptions towards people who’ve fallen through society’s cracks. Intelligent and thought-provoking, it marks a welcome return for a supremely talented writer -- Abir MukherjeeClever, mercilessly addictive and deeply thought-provoking, I Know What I Saw blends a dynamite plot with heartfelt characterisation. Wonderful -- Chris WhitakerI was a big fan of Imran Mahmood's first book, YOU DON'T KNOW ME, and his second, I KNOW WHAT I SAW, is every bit as gripping, insightful and beautifully written. [...] I was absolutely captivated -- Simon LelicAn intense, complex mind-bender of a book, told through eyes you can’t always trust. As compelling a tale as I’ve ever read; you won’t put it down until you know the truth -- Tony KentAs a portrait of vulnerability it’s sympathetically rendered and the resolution surprisingly disturbing * The Times *Not only a deftly written and nerve-jangling thriller, but also a multi-layered and unflinching portrait of life for those marginalised on the fringes of society * Herald *Heart-wrenching and jaw-dropping, I held my breath until the final word -- Holly SeddonEvery bit as fantastic as everyone says. Utterly gripping -- The Secret BarristerThe violent narrative inexorably grips the attention … it’s the examination of the mental state of his intelligent protagonist caught in a downward spiral that affirms his talent * Financial Times *Elegantly constructed, educational, involving and moving, this is a terrific novel * Literary Review *I Know What I Saw consolidates [Mahmood’s] position as an unpredictable crime writer able to tell a complex fast-paced story and keep readers hooked * Eastern Eye *Highly original and deftly plotted, delivering a gut-punch of an ending * Sunday Express *

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Book SynopsisOur Lady of Mysterious Ailments by T. L. Huchu is the second spellbinding book in the Edinburgh Nights series. ‘Stupendously engaging’ – Ben Aaronovitch, bestselling author of Rivers of LondonSome secrets are meant to stay buried When Ropa Moyo discovered an occult underground library, she expected great things. She’s really into Edinburgh’s secret societies – but turns out they are less into her. So instead of getting paid to work magic, she’s had to accept a crummy unpaid internship. And her with bills to pay and a pet fox to feed. Then her friend Priya offers her a job on the side. Priya works at Our Lady of Mysterious Maladies, a very specialized hospital, where a new illness is resisting magical and medical remedies alike. The first patient was a teenage boy, Max Wu, and his healers are baffled. If Ropa can solve the case, she might earn as she learns – and impress her mentor, Sir Callander.Her sleuthing will lead her to a lost fortune, an avenging spirit and a secret buried deep in Scotland’s past. But how are they connected? Lives are at stake and Ropa is running out of time. Praise for The Library of the Dead: ‘Roll on the sequel’ – The Times ‘One of the strangest and most compelling fantasy worlds you'll see all year’ – SFXTrade ReviewTendai’s alternative Edinburgh becomes more real and more exciting with every book. An artful combination of magic, history and imagination wrapped up in an engaging story -- Ben AaronovitchThe Library of the Dead’s alluring, shadowy Edinburgh with its hints of sophisticated academic magic will draw you in, but it’s Ropa – a hard knocks ghostalker on her paranormal grind to pay the rent – who grabs hold. The moment you meet her, you’ll follow wherever she goes -- Olivie Blake, author of The Atlas Six on The Library of the DeadA fast-moving and entertaining tale, beautifully written -- Ben Aaronovitch, bestselling author of Rivers of London on The Library of the DeadAn absolute delight . . . kept me totally hooked -- Genevieve Cogman on The Library of the DeadWhat a delight. Great pacing, wonderfully creepy villains, and so much fun! -- A. K. Larkwood on The Library of the Dead

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Book Synopsis'Beautifully written, unflinching and brimming with adventure' – Jennifer Saint, author of Ariadne and Elektra'Immersive storytelling, a rollicking mystery and a take-no-prisoners heroine' – Stylist1896, Bannin Bay, Australia. When British pearl-boat captain Charles Brightwell goes missing out at sea, rumours of mutiny and murder swell within the bay's dens and back alleys. Only his headstrong daughter, Eliza, refuses to believe her father is dead, and sets out on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth.But in a town teeming with corruption, prejudice, and blackmail, Eliza soon learns that the answers she seeks might cost more than pearls. How much is she willing to sacrifice to find them?'Both a breathtaking adventure story and a moving testimony to the lengths we go to for the people we love, it swept me away from the first page' – Emma Stonex, author of The LamplightersTimes Best Historical Fiction Pick A Woman & Home Best BookStylist Top PickShortlisted for the HWA Debut Crown Award and the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize Compelling, fiercely feminist, and atmospheric, Lizzie Pook's Moonlight and the Pearler's Daughter is a truly mesmerising novel.Trade ReviewImmersive storytelling, a rollicking mystery and a take-no-prisoners heroine * Stylist *Moonlight and the Pearler's Daughter is a gorgeous debut. Both a breathtaking adventure story and a moving testimony to the lengths we go to for the people we love, it swept me away from the first page . . . A gleaming achievement -- Emma Stonex, bestselling author of The LamplightersA lively tale with a gutsy, likeable heroine -- Nick Rennison * Sunday Times *Tense and vividly atmospheric, with a determined, independent heroine intent on the truth. It’s beautifully written, unflinching and brimming with adventure. I loved the journey to a world I knew nothing about - it’s gloriously transporting -- Jennifer Saint, bestselling author of AriadneWritten with sensitivity and heart, we defy you not to fall in love with this feisty, headstrong heroine * Woman & Home *Lizzie Pook's plot rattles along, but the real draw is her description of the bay, a place where pearlers risk their lives diving for that elusive, perfect pearl that will set them up for life . . . It is an unfamiliar, unforgiving world and Eliza is an engaging guide * The Times *With prose as beautiful as its pearlescent cover, this is an absolute gem * Woman's Weekly *A compelling, atmospheric mystery set in western Australia in the late 19th century. Brilliantly manages to recognise the details of the time, including the injustices of colonialism and the pearling industry, alongside a rollicking adventure. A sure fire hit -- Kate Sawyer, Costa shortlisted author of The StrandingI loved it: a gritty plot, exquisite prose, and a vivid evocation of a dangerous time and place. Wonderfully researched and realised -- Rosie Andrews, author of The LeviathanA stunning debut. From the very first line, this novel drew me fully into its gritty yet captivating world . . . I will never look at a string of pearls in quite the same way -- Charmaine Wilkerson, author of Black CakeGritty, lyrical, breathtaking. I couldn’t put it down, drawn in by its vivid characters and wealth of historical detail -- Fiona Valpy, author of The Dressmaker's GiftThis story of a daughter searching for her father in 19th century Bannin Bay is exquisite. You can feel the swell of the sea and smell the fish guts. Teeming with atmosphere and a drama that keeps you turning the pages . . . I loved it -- Julie Owen Moylan, author of That Green Eyed GirlThe exquisite prose tugged me in and held me in the eye of the storm, my fingers tightly crossed for Eliza. It’s not just good, it’s important. Lizzie shines a light on a dark part of British history with grace, skill, sensitivity and honesty. I LOVED IT -- Nikki May, author of WahalaThis story is a voyage I won't forget readily. Days after reading, I still feel the thrum of the ocean beneath my feet. Phenomenal -- Saara El-Arifi, author of The Final StrifeI devoured Moonlight and the Pearler's Daughter . . . Gorgeous, lyrical writing that brings the stifling heat and brutal landscape of North-Western Australia to life, with a courageous heroine in Eliza whose quest I was thoroughly invested in. Incredible! -- Amy McCulloch, author of BreathlessEerie and atmospheric with a steadily building sense of mystery and intrigue. I loved all the strands and how they connected in an unexpected and glorious way as the story crescendoed to the climax. Superb storytelling -- Melissa Fu, author of Peach Blossom SpringA stunning debut. Lizzie's gloriously descriptive and vivid prose envelops us in 19th century Western Australia as if it were yesterday. A moving debut with a truly relatable protagonist -- Laura Price, author of Single Bald FemaleA luscious, mysterious, adventure novel set in the halcyon days of Australia's lucrative pearl industry in the late 1800's . . . Pook spins an expert tale of corruption, fate and family in this dazzling debut -- Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of The Good Left UndoneMoonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter is a gift for anyone who likes their historical fiction impeccably researched, beautifully written and with an amazing sense of place. In Bannin Bay, Lizzie Pook has created a richly imagined world so fully realised in all its unflinching glory that from the opening pages I was transported . . . I loved this pacy and compelling read and can’t wait to see what Lizzie does next -- Lianne Dillsworth, author of The Theatre of MarvelsA transporting and thought provoking novel. The story is as lustrous as a pearl, but just like a pearl, there is real grit at its heart -- Polly Crosby, author of The UnravellingAtmospheric, fascinating, and beautiful, a fantastic story with unexpected twists and turns, and vivid characters that seared their way into my heart like a noon sun on a blisteringly hot day . . . Magnificent -- Liz Hyder, author of The GiftsA journey of discovery * Sunday Express *A perilous, richly-imagined story . . . a thrilling read * The Express *A powerful debut, and brilliantly escapist * Best Magazine *

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Book SynopsisGhostalker Ropa Moyo and her rag-tag team of magicians are back in The Mystery at Dunvegan Castle, the third book in the spellbinding Edinburgh Nights series by T. L. Huchu.’Alluring, shadowy Edinburgh with its hints of sophisticated academic magic will draw you in' - Olivie Blake, author on The Atlas Six on The Library of the DeadShe came for magic. She stayed to solve a murder . . .Ropa Moyo is no stranger to magic or mysteries. But she’s still stuck in an irksomely unpaid internship. So she’s thrilled to attend a magical convention at Dunvegan Castle, on the Isle of Skye, where she’ll rub elbows with eminent magicians.For Ropa, it’s the perfect opportunity to finally prove her worth. Then a librarian is murdered and a precious scroll stolen. Suddenly, every magician is a suspect, and Ropa and her allies investigate. Trapped in a castle, with suspicions mounting, Ropa must contend with corruption, skulduggery and power plays. Time to ask for a raise?'Fast-moving and entertaining . . . Stupendously engaging' - Ben Aaronovitch, author of the Rivers of London series'I highly recommend The Library of the Dead' - Charlaine Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse seriesTrade ReviewTendai’s alternative Edinburgh becomes more real and more exciting with every book. An artful combination of magic, history and imagination wrapped up in an engaging story -- Ben Aaronovitch, bestselling author of Rivers of London on Our Lady of Mysterious AilmentsThe Library of the Dead’s alluring, shadowy Edinburgh with its hints of sophisticated academic magic will draw you in, but it’s Ropa – a hard knocks ghostalker on her paranormal grind to pay the rent – who grabs hold. The moment you meet her, you’ll follow wherever she goes -- Olivie Blake, author of The Atlas Six on The Library of the DeadAn absolute delight . . . kept me totally hooked -- Genevieve Cogman, author of the Invisible Library series on The Library of the Dead

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Book SynopsisBill Nighy stars as the suave thespian sleuth in this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisationLife is good for Charles Paris. He's moved back in with his estranged wife, and has landed a plum stage role as Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night. But it can't last. First his attempts to woo Frances fall flat, then the play's director is taken ill with gastric trouble. His replacement, Romanian wunderkind Alex Radelescu, is determined to take the play in a radical new direction - with or without Charles.When a second member of the company falls sick, Charles begins to suspect a poisoner is on the loose - and the next victim could be him. Can he unmask the culprit before this comedy turns into a tragedy?Adapted by Jeremy Front, this engaging dramatisation stars Bill Nighy as Charles Paris, with Suzanne Burden as Frances, Jon Glover as Maurice and Julian Rhind-Tutt as Alex Radelescu.'Always a treat' Gillian Reynolds, Sunday TimesProduction creditsWritten by Simon BrettAdapted by Jeremy FrontProduced and directed by Sally AvensFirst broadcast on BBC Radio 4, 30 August-20 September 2006CastCharles Paris - Bill NighyFrances - Suzanne BurdenMaurice - Jon GloverKen Carter - Peter WightAlex Radelescu - Julian Rhind-TuttVivienne Marlin - Elizabeth BellGavin Scholes - Thomas WheatleyJack Bradley - John CumminsSally Luther - Tracy WilesBen Ritson - Tom LawrenceVasile Bogdan/Scott - Ryan McCluskeyTalya Northcott - Alex TregearInspector Dewar - Kim Wall© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. ? 2022 BBC Studios Distribution LtdTrade ReviewAlways a treat -- Gillian Reynolds * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisThe second novel from the award-winning author of international bestseller WAKE, picked as a Guardian Book of the Year in 2022.Gemma Guillory has lived in Rainier her entire life. She knows the tiny town's ins and outs like the back of her hand, the people like they are her family, their quirks as if they were her own.She knows her once charming town is now remembered for one reason, and one reason only. That three innocent people died. That the last stop on the Rainier Ripper's trail of deaths fifteen years ago was her innocuous little tea shop. She knows that the consequences of catching the Ripper still haunt her policeman husband and their marriage to this day and that some of her neighbours are desperate - desperate enough to welcome a dark tourism company keen to cash in on Rainier's reputation as the murder town.When the tour operator is killed by a Ripper copycat on Gemma's doorstep, the unease that has lurked quietly in the original killer's wake turns to foreboding, and she's drawn into the investigation. Unbeknownst to her, so is a prisoner named Lane Holland.Gemma knows her town. She knows her people. Doesn't she?PRAISE FOR WAKE:'Politically savvy, cleverly plotted . . . the kind of book that invites the ravenous language of binge reading: compulsive, propulsive, addictive' NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW'It is hard to believe WAKE is a first novel. Plot, pacing and characterisation are so finely judged that it feels more like the work of a past master' THE TIMES'So plausible and terrifying, it stays with you' THE AUSTRALIAN WOMEN'S WEEKLY'Outstanding . . . This is both a well-plotted, gripping mystery and a sensitive exploration of the aftermath of trauma' THE GUARDIAN

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Book Synopsis'FAST PACED AND GRIPPING BUT WITH A HEART OF PURE GOLD' HARRIET TYCE'BEGINS AT THE SPEED OF A RUNAWAY TRAIN ... PROPULSIVE PAGE-TURNER' VASEEM KHAN'GO RUBY! WHAT A HERO!' FIONA ERSKINEIt takes a village to save a child in this pulse-pounding standalone thriller from the acclaimed author of The Man on the Street.It wasn't her dad they were after.It was her. Ruby Winter is surprised when her reclusive father invites a stranger into their house. She eavesdrops on their conversation and is alarmed when she hears a fight break out. She dashes into the kitchen to save her dad but the stranger's the one lying on the floor in a pool of blood. Her dad urges her to pack a bag. They must quit their Northumbrian cottage and run. There isn't time to explain why. But as they try to flee her dad is captured.The only people who can help her are the villagers she has shunned her whole life. But, desperate to find her father and to work out who took him and why, she must seek their help.But what if learning the truth means discovering the life she once knew was a lie?Trade ReviewFast paced and gripping but with a heart of solid gold. Great stuff -- Harriet TyceI raced through it. I loved the characters and the dark humour. A cracking, pacy read. -- Patricia GibneyA tour de force. From behind the twitching curtains of a small divided village a force of unlikely ne'er do wells come together in this edgy, electrifying modern thriller. Once again Wood proves himself a brilliant champion of the underdog -- William ShawAt once tense and compelling, Ruby is a character that no one could fail to root for * Daily Mail *Begins at the speed of a runaway train. A propulsive page-turner * Vaseem Khan *Punchy, pacy and packed with powerful scenes. Nailed on to be one of THE books of 2023 -- Robert ScraggA good thriller needs more than just a compelling plot, I want to care about the characters too. Trevor Wood pulls that off superbly in You Can Run with a cast of characters I was sorry to say goodbye to at the end. -- Frances QuinnTrevor Wood has written another cracker of a book. A different cast of characters from his previous trilogy but equally engaging with a theme that focuses on community and what it takes to belong. I loved it -- Nikki SmithGot up early to finish this smashing new book. Go Ruby! What a hero! Books of 2023 will definitely include You Can Run -- Fiona ErskineSuperb. Wood delivers the perfect package with brilliantly authentic voices and a wildly exciting plot. But it's a thriller with heart. The perfect balance of pace, compassion and black humour as we rally for his exquisitely executed underdogs. Everything you want from a book -- Emma ChristieA menacing isolation action thriller. At once an affecting mediation on family and identity, and also a heart-pounding survival tale that digs into issues of power and class -- Dominic NolanA masterclass in suspense ... vividly-drawn villagers take on a foe that exudes genuine menace. Wood has distilled the authenticity and wry humour of his Jimmy Mullen trilogy into this compulsive thriller. Be careful picking it up - you won't want to put it down! -- Tom BenjaminAn incredibly fun, page-turner locked village thriller (is that a thing? It is now!). It's exciting, has a cast of great characters, humour and is full of personality! * Charlotte Levin *Trevor Wood is a force to be reckoned with in the genre * Mystery People *Wood's punchy prose is perfect for such an enticing set-up, and he's a past master at keeping those cliff-hangers (and revelations) coming * The Crack *Cracking . . . Breathlessly gripping * Peterborough Telegraph *Trevor Wood has fashioned a rip-roaring, action-packed and nail-bitingly tense thriller * Irish Independent Review *Original and unputdownable * Promoting Crime Fiction *A gripping new tale from adopted Geordie Trevor Wood * Living North *Trevor's inimitable voice, humanity and humour really shone through in this locked village mystery * Mari Hannah *A sinister standalone thriller * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisNovember 1911. Lady Emily Hardcastle is celebrating her birthday by seeing a play at the Duke’s Theatre in Bristol with her maid and confidante, the inimitable Flo. Act One is a triumph. Then Act Two opens with a body on stage—a real one. One of the cast has been brutally murdered during the interval. When other matters get in the way of Inspector Sunderland overseeing the case himself, he asks the ever-resourceful Lady H to keep a watchful eye on the suspects—and his police colleagues. Rustling up some cunning disguises of their own, she and Flo are soon in deep cover among the cast and crew, pulling back the curtain on some shocking secrets and rivalries… The problem is, everyone seems to have a motive, and everyone seems to have an alibi…In this locked-room mystery in which nothing is as it seems, the amateur sleuths need to put on the performances of their lives if they’re to stand a chance of shining a spotlight on the truth…

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Book SynopsisA Grand & Batchelor Victorian mysteryMarch, 1875. Although he has never had much time for George Custer, hero of the American Civil War and Commander of the 7th Cavalry, Matthew Grand feels duty bound to respond to a call for help from his West Point contemporary. Arriving at Fort Abraham Lincoln, deep in Dakota territory, private enquiry agents Grand and Batchelor discover the fort to be a powder keg of rumour and suspicion, petty rivalries, resentments - and closely-guarded secrets.When a body is discovered during a routine scouting patrol, some of those secrets rise uncomfortably close to the surface. Are the Lakota Sioux responsible? Or does the killer lie closer to home? Could it have been a case of mistaken identity - and was Custer himself the real target? The General has made many enemies - but does someone have a good enough reason to kill him?

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Book Synopsis"Trow goes out on a high note with his sterling 11th and final mystery starring English playwright Kit Marlowe . Trow reinforces his place at the top of the Elizabethan mystery subgenre" - Publishers Weekly Starred ReviewThe inaugural performance of Christopher Marlowe''s controversial new play is marred by sudden, violent death in this lively 16th century mystery.December, 1592. England is entering dangerous waters as thoughts turn to the question of the ageing Queen Elizabeth''s successor. Christopher Marlowe meanwhile is leading a troupe of the Lord Chamberlain''s Men on tour with a controversial new play.Marlowe expects his latest play, Edward II, to ruffle feathers. What he doesn''t expect is it to lead to is sudden, violent death. The morning the tour is due to begin, the newest member of the cast is found stabbed to death in the local brothel. And when a second murder, and then a third, disrupt rehearsals for the inaugural performance in the Great Hall at Scudbury Manor, it becomes clear that someone is determined to prevent this play from being performed - at any cost. But who ... and why?

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Book SynopsisThe arrival of a band of Spanish mercenaries brings new danger for Margaret Beaufort and the House of Lancaster in this richly-imagined medieval mystery.November, 1471. With Edward of York on the English throne and her son, Henry Tudor, in exile in Brittany, the newly-widowed Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond, is alone, without protectors. All she can do is wait and watch, planning for a time when she?s in a position to make her move.But new dangers are emerging. En route to England is a band of Spanish mercenaries known as the Garduna. With no allegiance to prince, prelate or people, they are a lethal fighting force, utterly ruthless and implacable killers. But who has hired them . . . and why? The discovery of the body of an unexpected visitor, found murdered in a locked room in her London townhouse, heralds the start of a series of increasingly menacing incidents which threaten Margaret and her household. Is there an enemy within? It?s up to Margaret?s wily clerk Christopher Urswicke to uncover the truth and ensure Margaret survives to fulfil her destiny.

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Book SynopsisWhen Carole Seddon''s car is vandalised, it heralds the start of a disturbing series of events in the witty and entertaining new Fethering mystery. Carole Seddon''s trusty Renault is one of her most treasured possessions. So when it is vandalised, there''s only one person she will entrust with its repair: Bill Shefford has been servicing the vehicles of the good citizens of Fethering for many years. But how could something like this happen in Fethering of all places?Then the note is shoved under Carole''s kitchen door: Watch out. The car window was just the start. It would appear that she has been deliberately targeted. But by whom . and why?Matters take an even more disturbing turn when a body is discovered at Shefford''s Garage, crushed to death by a falling gearbox. It would appear to be a tragic accident. Carole and her neighbour Jude are not so sure. And the more they start to ask questions, the more evidence they uncover of decidedly foul play .

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Book SynopsisWhen the family butler is brutally attacked, land agent Matthew Rowsley and his wife Harriet determine to find the culprit in this gripping Victorian mystery. With his lordship''s mental health failing, management of his grand country estate has been assigned to a group of trustees, including land agent Matthew Rowsley and his capable wife Harriet. But the smooth running of Thorncroft House is disrupted by a series of unforeseen events. Building work on the estate workers'' new cottages is halted by the discovery of Roman remains. Shortly afterwards, the family butler is brutally assaulted and left for dead. A random attack - or was he deliberately targeted? Matters take an even more disturbing turn when Lord Croft''s long-lost cousin and heir, Julius Trescothick, arrives from Australia, ready to claim his inheritance. But is he who he claims to be . and what are his true intentions?If they are to preserve Thorncroft House and a way of life that has continued for centuries, Matthew and Harriet must uncover the truth behind Trescothick''s identity and solve a series of interlocking mysteries.

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Book SynopsisThe Doom List - you''d rather be dead than be on it: the intriguing new 1920s mystery featuring Irish-born cop turned private investigator Tom Collins.July, 1922. Newly-appointed ''movie czar'' William H. Hays is about to arrive in town on a single-minded mission to clean up Hollywood. He is said to be compiling a list of ''undesirables'' whom he plans to bar from screen work. They call it the Doom List.With the industry in the grip of fear and paranoia, Hollywood''s hottest young director Rex Ingram is determined that no hint of scandal should mar the premiere of his new movie, The Prisoner of Zenda, and hires private investigator Tom Collins, a fellow Irishman, with instructions to protect his leading lady''s reputation at all costs. But, as Collins discovers, Barbara La Marr isn''t the only member of the cast hiding a dangerous secret.Meanwhile, a body is discovered in the Baldwin Hills to the south of the city. Could there be a connection? Against his better judgement, Collins is drawn into a case of scandal, forbidden love, blackmail . . . and cold-blooded murder.

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Book SynopsisWhen the family butler is brutally attacked, land agent Matthew Rowsley and his wife Harriet determine to find the culprit in this gripping Victorian mystery. With his lordship''s mental health failing, management of his grand country estate has been assigned to a group of trustees, including land agent Matthew Rowsley and his capable wife Harriet. But the smooth running of Thorncroft House is disrupted by a series of unforeseen events. Building work on the estate workers'' new cottages is halted by the discovery of Roman remains. Shortly afterwards, the family butler is brutally assaulted and left for dead. A random attack - or was he deliberately targeted? Matters take an even more disturbing turn when Lord Croft''s long-lost cousin and heir, Julius Trescothick, arrives from Australia, ready to claim his inheritance. But is he who he claims to be . and what are his true intentions?If they are to preserve Thorncroft House and a way of life that has continued for centuries, Matthew and Harriet must uncover the truth behind Trescothick''s identity and solve a series of interlocking mysteries.

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Book SynopsisEvery town has its secrets. Some are too deadly to stay hidden.Chouteau County''s super-rich know how to cover up a scandal, but when it comes to murder, they''d better watch their backs . . . Death investigator Angela Richman is determined to see a killer brought to justice in this sharply written and darkly entertaining mystery set in Missouri, perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner and J.A. Jance.Angela Richman, Chouteau County death investigator, finds herself deep in the Missouri woods on a perfect spring day. But there is nothing idyllic about her grim walk - a body has been discovered in a muddy creek, and Detective Jace Budewitz wants Angela on the scene.Terri Gibbons, the popular Forest High track star who went missing eight months ago, has been found strangled. Could a message found in Terri''s shoe hold the key to catching her killer? Chouteau Forest is a town of privilege and secrets, where everyone has something to hide . . . Can Angela overcome the many obstacles in her way to see justice served when the Forest''s wealthy residents will go to any lengths to prevent the truth being revealed?

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Book SynopsisA fast-paced and action-packed ride through upstate New York for fans of CHRIS RYAN and STEPHEN LEATHER.When Nicolas ''Po'' Villere runs into Elspeth Fuchs, an old flame, he''s surprised to find who''s by her side. It''s her son, Jacob, and he''s a dead ringer for when Po was a child. His age lines up with when Po last saw Elspeth, before she left him for Caleb Moorcock and a life in a secluded community.Elspeth and Jacob are now running for their lives from the abusive Caleb. Po and his partner, Private Investigator Tess Grey, offer shelter. But before Po can dive into the boy''s parentage, Caleb snatches the absconded pair and drags them back to their fortified commune.Has Po dodged a bullet? Maybe it''s best for them all if he never learns whether he''s Jacob''s father. Who''s he kidding? Po resolves to rescue Elspeth and discover the truth about Jacob no matter what . . .

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Book Synopsis"You shall never have a penny of my money. Leave me alone or I will shoot you dead!"1924. After six months in Hollywood, young British widow Emma Blackstone has come to love her new employer, glamourous movie-star Kitty Flint - even if her late husband''s sister is one of the worst actresses she''s ever seen. Looking after Kitty and her three adorable Pekinese dogs isn''t work Emma dreamed of, but Kitty rescued her when she was all alone in the world. Now, the worst thing academically-minded Emma has to worry about is the shocking historical inaccuracies of the films Kitty stars in.Until, that is, Rex Festraw - Kitty''s first husband, to whom she may or may not still be married - turns up dead in her dressing room, a threatening letter seemingly from Kitty in his pocket.Emma''s certain her flighty but kind-hearted sister-in-law has been framed. But who by? And why? From spiteful rivals to jealous boyfriends, the suspects are numerous. But as Emma investigates, she begins to untangle a deadly plot - and there''s something Kitty''s not telling her . . .This gripping first in a brand-new series from NYT-bestselling author Barbara Hambly brings the sights and sounds of Hollywood to life and is a perfect pick for fans of female-fronted historical mysteries set in the roaring twenties.

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Book Synopsis'The perfect sleuth for the Jazz Age' Crimereads 'With his highbrow manner and his parade of encyclopaedic learning, Philo Vance is not only a detective; he is a god out of the machine' New York Times 'Probably the most asinine character in detective fiction' Raymond Chandler __________ In one of the most well-known classic American puzzle mysteries, amateur detective Philo Vance must solve a baffling series of murders based on nursery rhymes A series of gruesome murders has left the glittering world of Jazz Age Manhattan in shock. With every new victim, the perpetrator sends a taunting note to the press, simply signed 'The Bishop'. New York's District Attorney turns to the only man who can crack the case: the dapper and brilliant detective Philo Vance. With his razor-sharp intellect and impeccable style, Vance sets out to track down the killer before more lives are lost, and soon uncovers a dark pattern to the murders. As the investigation takes him from the mansions of the city's elite to the seedy underworld of speakeasies and jazz clubs, Vance must use all his wits to stay one step ahead of The Bishop. Will he be able to solve the case in time, or risk becoming the killer's next victim?Trade Review'The perfect sleuth for the Jazz Age' - CrimeReads'Mr. Van Dine's amateur detective is the most gentlemanly, and probably the most scholarly snooper in literature' - Chicago Daily Tribune'The Philo Vance novels were well-crafted puzzlers that captivated readers' - Mystery Scene'With his highbrow manner and his parade of encyclopedic learning, Philo Vance is not only a detective; he is a god out of the machine' - New York Times'Probably the most asinine character in detective fiction' - Raymond Chandler

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Book SynopsisThe 1920s most stylish sleuth returns in The Crystal Crypt for another thrilling murder mystery! “But accidents can still happen… Perhaps there was something out of her control, something she couldn’t have foreseen…”“Like someone plotting to kill her?” Reporter sleuth Poppy Denby is asked to investigate the mysterious death of an up-and-coming female scientist in an Oxford laboratory known as the Crystal Crypt. The official verdict is that Dr June Leighton died in a tragic accident, but Dr Leighton's lab assistant believes it was murder. However, when Poppy discovers that the colleague has spent time in a mental institution and has an unresolved murder in her own past, Poppy wonders if she is being misled. But then, another female academic is attacked, and Poppy herself becomes a target.

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Book Synopsis'Creepy and packed with suspense and menace, it draws the reader into a community that has more than its fair share of skeletons to hide.' Daily MailThe phenomenal new thriller from the multi-million-copy bestselling author.__________Blackwood Bay. An ordinary place, home to ordinary people.It used to be a buzzing seaside destination. But now, ravaged by the effects of dwindling tourism and economic downturn, it's a ghost town - and the perfect place for film-maker Alex to shoot her new documentary. But the community is deeply suspicious of her intentions. After all, nothing exciting ever happens in Blackwood Bay - or does it?Blackwood Bay. An ordinary place, home to an extraordinary secret.__________READERS ARE GRIPPED BY FINAL CUT'Thrilling to the end, and will keep you guessing' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐'Full of twists, turns and great atmosphere' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐'A brilliantly crafted thriller' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING'Dark and twisty, and full of surprises and so smartly done' Joanna Cannon'I loved that behind this disturbing and clever plot there's a genuinely heartrending story.' Emma Curtis 'The master storyteller S J Watson is back with another clever psychological thriller' Woman & Home'An intriguing and unsettling new thriller' Fabulous'Watson adroitly [brings] the strands of his story together to create a disturbing journey to a shocking truth' The Observer'S J Watson has done it again. Even more compelling than Before I Go To Sleep' Lesley KaraTrade ReviewWatson adroitly [brings] the strands of his story together to create a disturbing journey to a shocking truth * The Observer *Creepy and packed with suspense and menace, it draws the reader into a community that has more than its fair share of skeletons to hide. * Daily Mail *Dark and twisty, and full of surprises and so smartly done. * Joanna Cannon *S J Watson has done it again. Even more compelling than Before I Go To Sleep * Lesley Kara *S J Watson, pacing his story with mesmerising expertise, keeps you so invested in the fates of his characters * Jake Kerridge, Sunday Express *

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Book SynopsisFrom Perry Mason creator Erle Stanley Gardner - during his life, the best-selling American author of all time -- comes a lost classic of detective fiction featuring private eyes Donald Lam (once played by Frank Sinatra!) and Bertha Cool. Has Donald Lam gone to the dark side? From the world-famous creator of "Perry Mason," Erle Stanley Gardner - at his death the best-selling American writer of all time - comes another baffling case for the Cool & Lam detective agency: SHILLS CAN'T CASH CHIPS. Return to the 1960s as a simple insurance investigation into a car accident puts Bertha Cool and Donald Lam on the trail of murder - and Donald hip-deep in danger when he poses as an ex-con to infiltrate a criminal gang. It's Gardner's twistiest caper ever, and a fitting capper to Hard Case Crime's revival of this classic (and long unavailable) detective series.Trade Review"A high-spirited romp you'll be sorry to see end." - Kirkus Reviews "Just the ticket for fans of retro crime fiction." - Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin.The gripping new Jack Reacher thriller from the No.1 bestselling authors Lee Child and Andrew Child.Gerrardsville, Colorado. One tragic event. Two witnesses. Two conflicting accounts. One witness sees a woman throw herself in front of a bus - clearly suicide. The other witness is Jack Reacher. And he sees what really happened - a man in grey hoodie and jeans, swift and silent as a shadow, pushed the victim to her death, before grabbing her bag and sauntering away.Reacher follows the killer on foot, not knowing that this was no random act of violence. It is part of something much bigger...a sinister, secret conspiracy, with powerful people on the take, enmeshed in an elaborate plot that leaves no room for error. If any step is compromised, the threat will have to be quickly and permanently removed.But when the threat is Reacher, there is No Plan B...© Lee Child & Andrew Child 2022 (P) Penguin Audio 2022Trade ReviewLee and Andrew Child nail it again with NO PLAN B * Richard Osman *No Plan B is not to be missed. A perfectly plotted, fast paced thriller, with bigger twists than ever before.It's no wonder Jack Reacher is everyone's favourite rebel hero * Karin Slaughter *The world's favourite hero packs an even harder punch than ever. * Peter James *Contains more chases than James Bond could manage, a plot to keep the reader guessing, and enough bad guys to test Reacher's strength and guile. . .Destined to be another bestseller. * i *

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin.1992. Two strangers bring a hospital patient a list of names. They ask him for one more, but it's a question the patient can't answer. Minutes later he is dispatched through the 12th floor window.His death generates some unexpected attention. That attention comes from the Secretary of Defence, who brings in an inter-agency task force to investigate. Jack Reacher, recently demoted from Major to Captain, is assigned as the Army's representative.Reacher may be an exceptional soldier, but sweeping other people's secrets under the carpet isn't part of his skill set. As he races to find the killer, he must navigate around the ulterior motives of his new 'partners'. And all while moving into the sight line of some of the most dangerous people he has ever encountered.His mission is to uncover the truth. Fast. The question is: will Reacher bring the bad guys to justice the official way . . . or his way?PRAISE FOR THE JACK REACHER SERIES'There's only one Jack Reacher. Accept no substitutes.' MICK HERRON'Jack Reacher is today's James Bond, a thriller hero we can't get enough of.' KEN FOLLETT'Everyone needs to kick some butt sometimes, even if it's just imaginary.' JOJO MOYESAlthough the Jack Reacher novels can be read in any order, The Secret is the 28th book in the internationally bestselling series.©2023 Andrew Child & Lee Child (P)2023 Penguin AudioTrade ReviewThe Secret is a corker . . . Fast and furious, this is classic Jack Reacher doing what he does best – busting heads and breaking rules to get to the bottom of a conspiracy * Daily Express *A flow to the fight scenes . . . some flashes of humour . . . Welcome back, Jack * The Times *If there is a more iconic character in modern fiction than Jack Reacher, I’d like to meet them * Daily Mirror *Jack Reacher is on good form . . . Cue classic laconic violence * The Sun *

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Book SynopsisPrivate Eyes with eagle eyes and rare skills, PI's and gumshoes, bloodhounds and sleuths, the shadowy arts of the detective have intrigued us since tales of the Pinkerton Detective Agency and Sherlock Holmes. Add some treachery, intimacy, and a little murder to the mix and you'll find a powerful series of dark stories from classic and contemporary writers. This new title in our successful Gothic Fantasy Short Stories collection contains a fabulous mix of classic and brand new writing, with contemporary authors from the US, Canada, and the UK. New, contemporary and notable writers featured are: Daniel Brock, Elliott Capon, Philip Brian Hall, Tina L. Jens, Tom Mead, Marshall J. Moore, Pat Morris, Amelia Dee Mueller, Trixie Nisbet, Patsy Pratt-Herzog, Michele Bazan Reed, Lesley L. Smith and Cameron Trost. Alongside classic stories by authors such as Margery Allingham, G.K. Chesterton, Arthur Conan Doyle, Baroness Orczy and Catherine Louisa Pirkis.

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Book SynopsisThe town is gripped by a big freeze, and blizzard after blizzard has engulfed the feline community, leaving shops and businesses snowbound. Hettie Bagshot and her sidekick, Tilly Jenkins, have found sanctuary by their fireside but soon they are bucketed into a terrifying nightmare, called to investigate the disappearance of the town’s kittens as – one by one – they are taken in the snow. Who are the strange cats living in Wither-Fork Woods? Will the ancient prophecy of the Ice Maid’s Tail become a reality? And can Hettie and Tilly defrost the fish fingers in time for tea? Join them as they slip and slide their way through another frost-biting case for The No. 2 Feline Detective Agency.Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE NO. 2 FELINE DETECTIVE AGENCY 'Original and intriguing… a world without people which cat lovers will enter and enjoy’ P. D. James'I loved it. The whole concept is just so “real”!’ Barbara Erskine'Mandy Morton’s Feline Detective Agency instigates a new genre, both wonderful and surreal’ Maddy Prior‘The world that Morton has created is irresistible’ Publishers Weekly‘Witty and smart. Prepare to be besotted’ M. K. Graff‘Mandy Morton’s series is both charming and whimsical’ Barry Forshaw‘Hettie Bagshot might be a new face at the scene of a crime, but already she could teach most fictional detectives a thing or two’ The Hunts Post‘An absolute delight from beginning to end… Totally original, very different – and I’m in awe of the author’s imagination. Very much recommended’ Being Anne Blog

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Book SynopsisHettie and Tilly are summoned to a mysterious tea party hosted by Tilly's long-lost great-aunts. The ancient windmill they live in is not what it seems, and very soon the mill begins to reveal its terrifying secrets of murder and betrayal. Tilly must face her family's demons as Hettie fights to unravel the tragedies of the past. Who are the hippy cats camped in the field? Why do the walls of the windmill whisper at night? And who haunts the derelict priory? Will Hettie and Tilly have the wind blown out of their sails before this baffling case is brought to a grinding conclusion? Join these fearless cats as they investigate another pastry-laden mystery for The No. 2 Feline Detective Agency.Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE NO. 2 FELINE DETECTIVE AGENCY 'Original and intriguing… a world without people which cat lovers will enter and enjoy’ P. D. James'I loved it. The whole concept is just so “real”!’ Barbara Erskine‘Deliciously clever and a true delight’ Laura Thompson'Mandy Morton’s Feline Detective Agency instigates a new genre, both wonderful and surreal’ Maddy Prior‘The world that Morton has created is irresistible’ Publishers Weekly‘Witty and smart. Prepare to be besotted’ M. K. Graff‘Mandy Morton’s series is both charming and whimsical’ Barry Forshaw‘Hettie Bagshot might be a new face at the scene of a crime, but already she could teach most fictional detectives a thing or two’ The Hunts Post

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Book Synopsis‘Amazing!... I was absolutely blown away. Twists and turns and so much suspense.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader ReviewNo one can love a son like his mother…Patricia Mullner is trapped in a nightmare no parent should ever experience. Three years ago, 17-year-old son Andrew vanished without trace. There was no note, no goodbye and no body has ever been found, and now her days are spent in a fog of heartache and alcohol, crying to husband Thomas about their lost boy.But Patricia is more than just a grieving mother, and as Andrew’s disappearance starts to unravel the perfect family she’s built with Thomas, it seems that the actions of her past may be back to haunt her.Because someone is watching from the shadows - someone who knows exactly what Patricia is hiding. Someone who will stop at nothing to take revenge – and might just hold the key to Andrew’s disappearance…An absolutely gripping psychological thriller with a shocking twist in the tale. Readers of My Lovely Wife, KL Slater and B.A. Paris will not be able to put this one down.Readers can't get enough of Mummy's Boy: ‘Wow! Started and finished this in several hours as it was such a compelling storyline… Fantastic storyline, loved the ending. Highly recommended.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ ‘WOW!!! JA Andrews has an incredible gift of writing psychological thrillers…I was just blown away by everything in this book and need to read more by this author. Needless to say I am an instant huge fan!!’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review‘An excellent book with twist after twist. Gripping from the start, and I loved the ending.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review‘Amazing! This is my first from JA Andrews and I was absolutely blown away. Twists and turns and so much suspense. Just when I thought I had everything figured out I was proven wrong.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review‘a dark psychological thriller that should be read by anyone that loves this genre. Given the chance, pick up this book and read it, I can guarantee you will love it.’ Reader Review‘It's brilliant. It is well written, with a good plot and the characters are credible with plenty of twists and turns’ Reader Review‘I have absolutely adored this book. I haven’t been able to put it down. I have been kept on the edge of my seat.’ Reader Review‘I was hooked….I read this book in one sitting and finally turned the last page in the wee hours…This read had me sat on the edge of my seat, got my heart racing and at times chills. A tale of how a mind can unravel and I had a front row seat. A MUST READ and so highly recommended.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review‘It’s a dark and tense read, of which the author had no problem pulling me into the story and keeping me there. There are some nice little twists that gives the reader bursts of adrenaline rushes as they take them in. Highly recommended.’ Reader Review‘a dark and twisted domestic thriller that did not disappoint! You will love this one if you like dark thrills!’ Reader Review‘A good, dark thriller that will stay with me for a long time.’ Reader Review

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Book SynopsisHow far would you go for family?Anna’s done bad things before. Neglected and unloved as a child, she had to do whatever it took to keep herself and her little sister, Birdie, safe. But the worst thing she’s ever done is let her sister walk out of a diner when they were teenagers. She would never see her sister again.Years later, and Anna is a new person. After a whirlwind romance, she’s married handsome, successful, and generous Guy. She has a steady job and a new life of comfort. Things seem perfect. But she hasn’t told her husband about her dark past or about Birdie, that she’s still looking for her. It’s not about his too-perfect veneer, or her suspicion that he flirts with other women. It’s that he has a complicated past and family secrets, too. Secrets that might be more entwined with hers than he knows.After all this time, one thing about Anna remains the same. There’s nothing she wouldn’t do for her sister. And when she finds out who’s kept them apart for all these years, there will be hell to pay.A completely addictive, dark and eye-opening novel about what people hide behind closed doors, perfect for your next book club pick. Fans of Megan Miranda and Shari Lapena will love The Secret Sister.Read what everyone is saying about The Secret Sister… ‘Okay, I was totally blown away by this book. I thought it was going to be your run-of-the-mill mystery… Wow, I was wrong. This is an amazingly written book. If you think you can figure it out, well good luck to you… I will be bringing this book up every chance I get. Great story!!!!’ NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A heart-wrenching clash of past and present which is not for the faint-hearted. It is rare for a book to make you feel so many strong emotions… Captivating and intriguing… I couldn't put the book down… This has been the most memorable book I have read in a long time.’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘This novel is one you cannot put down! I put aside all my work so I could binge it in a day. A gripping story… With many twists and turns, this novel kept me on edge and guessing till the end.’ NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Crazy good. This story tells of an incredible bond between twin sisters who end up in the care system. Ups and downs throughout and an absolutely heartbreaking ending. I loved it.’ NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Utterly compulsive reading. I found the subject matter harrowing but so well written and well researched… The story of Anna and her twin sister Birdie broke my heart… I can highly recommend it.’ NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Ooo this one definitely had a twist that I was not expecting! Go ahead and read this one for yourself because trust me it will keep you guessing until the very end. I loved it! Writing style was fantastic as well.’ NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘This book had such a raw storyline. I really enjoyed it. Would recommend this to every person who asked me.’ NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Really enjoyed this quick read… It did not end how I expected which left me both surprised and satisfied…. Would recommend!’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘This book is a very good read… The author builds tension that grows throughout the book and you find yourself unable to put the book down. I would definitely recommend this book.’ Goodreads Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisHer dream escape is about to become a nightmare… Kimberley King has spent the last five years trying to outrun the reason she left the police force. Her life is a mess and she’s desperate for change. So when she is randomly selected for the new series of the hit show LoveWrecked, she can’t pass up the chance to win the £100,000 prize. All Kimberley needs to do is couple up with one of her fellow contestants, win the infamous LoveWrecked challenges, and she will have enough cash for a fresh start.But the island isn’t the paradise she was promised and within hours, one of the contestants is dead. Then the announcement comes: one of the islanders is a murderer and Kimberley must find out who, live on television. For every hour it takes her, one more person will die. The game is rigged, everyone is hiding secrets, and time is running out… An addictive and unputdownable crime thriller, perfect for fans of Lucy Foley and T.M. Logan.Readers are loving The Islanders A Grazia Best Book of 2021‘Sinister and twisty, The Islanders shows the terrifying darker side of reality TV … An utterly compelling read.’ Lisa Hall, author of The Party‘The Islanders is a confident debut with a crackling mystery at its heart. Anyone who has ever thought a murder might spice up a reality show will have a fantastic time with this wonderfully frenetic and wildly entertaining read.’ Chris McGeorge, author of Guess Who‘I found it highly addictive, which of course, led me to finishing this book off in the early hours of the morning! This is a great thriller with an end that feels suited to its surroundings.’ Crimesquad‘What a thrilling ride! I Know What You Did Last Summer meets Love Island! Fast paced and fresh – essential reading for fans of a murder mystery!’ Carys Jones, author of The List‘The Islanders is an energetic, fast-paced ride you won't be able to put down.’ NetGalley Review ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐‘A great story, fast-paced, I loved it!’ NetGalley Review ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐‘An addictive, mysterious thriller which keeps you gripped right until the last page! I absolutely loved this book!’ NetGalley Review ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐‘Such fun! I absolutely loved this book.’ NetGalley Review ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐‘If you love a good locked room mystery that will keep you on your toes as well as entertained until the very last page, I can highly recommend this debut. I will definitely be hoping to see more of her work in the future!’ NetGalley Review ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

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Book SynopsisA filter can hide all manner of secrets…When budding true crime blogger Maggie Shaw is invited to the Influencer of the Year awards, it feels like everything is finally falling into place. The party is held on a glamorous yacht and presents the perfect opportunity for Maggie to network – the first step towards achieving her dream of turning her hobby into a full-time job. But by the end of the night, there’s one question on everybody’s lips: who killed Stella Knight?Stella was beautiful and famous. Her life appeared to be perfect. But behind the façade, Stella had made a number of enemies – and all of them were on board.A page-turning crime thriller, perfect for fans of Catherine Cooper and Lucy Foley.Praise for The Influencers 'I sped through this book at lightning speed. I loved it.' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'OMGGG I knew this book was going to be fabulous after reading Leonard's debut last year, but wow that ending was really something... I sailed through this glamorous, pacy and thrilling ride of a novel.' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'I loved it!!!! I’ve always been invested in books with deal with rich people mystery, murder and suspense and SV delivered everything in this one!' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'A thrilling, glossy, and super fun thriller. The pacing was spot on and it was very engaging. I loved all the different characters and the way the author integrates them. Definitely see this being a popular summer book. Also... THAT ENDING!!!!' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Glamorous and seductive, The Influencers is a classic whodunit with a brilliant twist. Pure escapism, I loved it.' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'I loved this one. Very fast paced, had me turning pages as I tore through it – I had to see how it would end.' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'An addictive, mysterious thriller which keeps you gripped right until the last page!' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'I absolutely love this sundrenched thriller! A collection of social media stars go on a trip and one ends up dead. An updated classic whodunit! I spent the entire book trying to figure out the mystery and was highly entertained.' NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisCass Raines – a former cop turned private investigator. But has she got what it takes to catch a murderer…?When Cass Raines took a bullet in the line of duty, it wasn’t injury that saw her quit the police but the cover up for an incompetent colleague that followed. Now, the Chicago PD has one less African-American woman on the force and Cass is the head of a one-woman private investigation agency.When her close friend Father Ray asks Cass to look into a recent spate of vandalism at his church, she readily agrees. But only hours later she’s horrified to discover his murdered body in the church confessional, and another dead man nearby.The lead detective assigned to the case is all too ready to dismiss it as an interrupted burglary gone awry – just another statistic in a violent city. But Cass’s instincts tell her otherwise, and badge or no badge, she intends to see justice done…The first in a series of compulsive crime novels featuring an unforgettable lead character. Perfect for fans of Ian K. Smith, Sue Grafton and the Cormoran Strike novels.Praise for Tracy Clark'Clark writes with purpose, her sense of social justice never venturing into dogma but remaining fully rooted in Raines’s actions and personality. She saves, but is no savior, because she operates in a world where survival is the benchmark, and pain remains in the aftermath.' The New York Times on Runner, part of the Cass Raines Mystery seriesRunner nominated for the Sue Grafton Memorial Award from the Mystery Writers of America’s Edgar Award‘This street-smart first mystery boasts great characterization and a terrific new protagonist. Get this writer on your radar now.’ Booklist‘Unforgettable. . . . Distinctive, vividly written characters lift this promising debut. Readers will be eager for the sequel.’ Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW‘Clark’s kickoff to an exciting new character-driven series explores the dynamics between a black investigator and a white world in a story ripped from the headlines.’ Kirkus Reviews‘Clark’s compelling, suspenseful, and action-packed debut introduces a dogged, tough African American woman investigator who is complex and courageous and surrounded by a family of fascinating misfits. Fans of Sue Grafton’s Kinsey Millhone or Sara Paretsky’s V.I Warshawski will welcome Cass Raines to their ranks.’ Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

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