Crime and mystery: private investigator / amateur detectives

Book SynopsisEver so wholesome. Ever so deadly... When art restorer Astrid Swift moved from London to the Dorset village of Hanbury, she thought she was heading for a quiet life. Far from it. A local man has just been murdered in the English Trust stately home where Astrid works, and the sleepy community is shaken to its core. Soon Astrid has discovered the shocking truth about her employer: rather than being the genteel organisation it seems on the surface, the Trust is a hotbed of politics and intrigue. As Astrid's new friend Kath from the village says: 'It's like the mafia, but with scones.' As the suspicious deaths mount up, Astrid must use every gadget in her restorer's toolkit to solve the mystery, salvage her reputation – and maybe even save her life. Thrilling, funny and unputdownable, The Trust is perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Robert Thorogood and Clare Chase. Praise for The Trust: 'Feelgood fun.' The Times 'I romped through The Trust... A cosy debut set in a house brimming with secrets... An enchanting murder mystery.' Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal 'Macabre murders, quirky characters and delightful settings combine in a way that would make Midsomer proud.' Crime Fiction Lover 'A feisty heroine, an ingenious plot and a cast of quirky characters that soon feel like your best friends, make The Trust a cozy crime to savour.' Merryn Allingham, author of The Bookshop Murder 'Intelligent and gently humorous, with a suitably eccentric cast of characters.' M S Morris, author of the Bridget Hart booksTrade ReviewFeelgood fun * The Times *A feisty heroine, an ingenious plot and a cast of quirky characters that soon feel like your best friends, make The Trust a cozy crime to savour -- Merryn AllinghamIntelligent and gently humorous, with a suitably eccentric cast of characters -- M S MorrisMacabre murders, quirky characters and delightful settings combine in a way that would make Midsomer proud * Crime Fiction Lover *I romped through The Trust... A cosy debut set in a house brimming with secrets... An enchanting murder mystery -- Janice Hallett, author of The AppealIt should be read in one sitting either by a lazy river or a roaring pub fire. Difficult to put down -- Bill GoodallI'd recommend this for a cosy, quick read * Yours *

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Book SynopsisMotherland meets Midsomer Murders in this fresh and funny mystery about a group of soon-to-be mums who turn detective when there's a murder at their antenatal class. 'Cosy crime at its finest!' JANICE HALLETT'A sharply witty debut' SIMON BRETT'The epitome of fun and witty cosy crime' iPAPER**DON'T MISS THE NEXT MOTHERS' MURDER CLUB MYSTERY: DEAD TIRED. AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER NOW!**For Alice and her partner Joe, moving to the sleepy Cotswold village of Penton is a chance to embrace country life and prepare for the birth of their unexpected first child. He can take up woodwork; maybe she'll learn to make jam. But the rural idyll they'd hoped for doesn't quite pan out when a dead body is discovered at their local antenatal class and they find themselves suspects in a murder investigation.With a cloud of suspicion hanging over the heads of the whole group, Alice sets out to solve the mystery and clear her name, with the help of her troublesome dog, Helen. However, there are more secrets and tensions in the heart of Penton than first meet the eye. Between the discovery of a shady commune up in the woods, the unearthing of a mysterious death years earlier and the near-tragic poisoning of Helen, Alice is soon in way over her head. CAN YOU SOLVE THE MOTHER OF ALL MURDERS?FEATURED IN THE EVENING STANDARD'S BOOKS TO WATCH IN 2023 AND THE NEW YORK TIMES' 'NEW MYSTERIES FOR A NEW YEAR''A gloriously smart and witty telling of the darker side of NCT groups - this is really funny with edge' HELEN LEDERER'A complete triumph. Perfectly plotted, brilliantly observed and just so much fun' LAUREN BRAVO'A twisty, turny murder mystery guaranteed to satisfy any amateur detective's cravings, with belly laughs big enough to give you stretch marks' FIONA LEITCH, author of The Cornish Wedding Murder 'Kat Ailes nails small town cosy crime in her debut novel. From the first page, I was hooked. I laughed an awful lot; the writing is so clever and funny' CHRIS MCDONALD, author of the Stonebridge Mysteries'A humorous, remarkably touching debut. Pacy, funny, with just the right undertones of dark' EVA VERDE, author of Lives Like MineTrade ReviewA wildly impressive debut. Pacy, energetic and best of all hilariously funny - without detracting from the shadowy mystery and genuine humanity at its core. Its characters and twisty plot feel absolutely real - you'll be on the edge of your seat, totally immersed in trying to work out who did it, but rest assured you're never far from a smile. Cosy crime at its finest! * Janice Hallett *Kat Ailes is a welcome newcomer to the ranks of cosy crime novelists. The Expectant Detectives is a sharply witty debut. * Simon Brett *A gloriously smart and witty telling of the darker side of NCT groups - this is really funny with edge * Helen Lederer *The epitome of fun and witty cosy crime * iPaper *Murdering every mummy cliché with hilarity and heart, this book is a complete triumph. Perfectly plotted, brilliantly observed and just so much fun. * Lauren Bravo *A twisty, turny murder mystery guaranteed to satisfy any amateur detective's cravings, with belly laughs big enough to give you stretch marks * Fiona Leitch, author of The Cornish Wedding Murder *Kat Ailes nails small town cosy crime in her debut novel. From the first page, I was hooked. I laughed an awful lot; the writing is so clever and funny. I really loved this book. * Chris McDonald, author of the Stonebridge Mysteries *It had such a lovely tone of voice, funny and warm, like chatting to a best mate. I really missed Alice when it was over * Sarah Naughton, author of The Mothers *A humorous, remarkably touching debut. Pacy, funny, with just the right undertones of dark * Eva Verde, author of Lives Like Mine *The Expectant Detectives is wildly funny, clever, twisty, charming, and unexpectedly relatable. It is exactly the surprisingly heartwarming and uproariously hilarious mystery we all need in our lives. This book is one of a kind and I can't wait for the next instalment * Nora Murphy, author of The New Mother *I LOVED this book! Alice is hilarious, the mystery is compelling and fun, and this group of about-to-be-moms deserves a sequel, and some cake, obvi! Kat Ailes has written a winner of a book and you'll want to read it immediately! * Catherine McKenzie, USA Today bestselling author of Have You Seen Her *This darkly witty debut ... Archly funny and highly recommended! * Deanna Raybourn, New York Times bestselling author of Killers of a Certain Age *'Exuberant ... Ailes sets a cheerful tone but doesn't shy away from emotional heft' * New York Times *Full of charming characters, including Alice's goofy dog, this fast-paced, original cozy is great fun. * Publishers Weekly *Pointed banter between the heroine and pretty much everyone else keeps this debut sharp * Kirkus Reviews *Witty, bright, and with an unexpected twist ending, Ailes' debut mystery will appeal to fans of British comedies and cozy mysteries * Booklist *A book title this precious comes with the unspoken promise that what you're about to read is as cozy as an episode of Midsomer Murders and as charming as Call the Midwife. Ailes delivers on that promise with humor and the kind of mystery Miss Marple loved to solve . . . A fresh and fun take on the mystery genre perfect for fans of Sophie Kinsella and Helen Fielding * Oprah Daily *In her first novel, Ailes has created a delightful mystery that both amuses and enthralls * Washington Post *

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Book Synopsis'A fascinating whodunnit to stimulate even the most demanding of amateur sleuths.' T.A. WilliamsThe Isle of Wight has always felt like a safe place to live for keen dog-walker and reluctant sleuth Susan. But after being involved in the investigation of a troubling crime near her old home, Susan decides to move to the peaceful village of Bishopstone.Susan loves the sense of community and immediately throws herself into village life, volunteering at the local primary school and joining the choir of St Jude’s. So, when there is an altercation at the meeting of the choir committee, followed by a shocking accident involving head teacher Lawrence, Susan is dismayed to realise her powers of deduction may be needed again.There is a dangerous criminal hiding in plain sight and with the police reluctant to help, Susan must put together the pieces of the fiendish puzzle to flush out a killer before they strike again.A brand new cosy mystery from the author of the bestselling The House Party. Perfect for fans of Frances Evesham, Faith Martin and LJ Ross.'A masterclass in story-telling.' Owen Mullen'I thoroughly enjoyed this intriguing mystery set in a beautiful location with deliciously menacing undercurrents.' Frances EveshamWhat readers are saying about Mary Grand:‘I’ve read all of Mary Grand’s book and this one is just another brilliant read. I loved the way the characters interact and the twists in finding out who the murderer was. A great book to curl up in a comfy seat and try to work out who done it!’‘Mary Grand does it again with a gripping who done it on the beautiful Isle of Wight. A new and exciting cast of characters both two and four legged (dogs as always an important part of the story) lead us on a chase to unravel the clues, ignore the red herrings and guess the murderer. Who knew that such skillduggery happened on this much loved holiday island? I always so enjoy her books and can't recommend them highly enough. I also can't wait for the next one!!!!’‘I’ve so enjoyed Death at Castle Cove. I visited the Isle of Wight about 8 years ago for the day and I remember Ventnor very well as we stopped there for an hour. Mary your booked transported me back there and your descriptions of the beaches and area roundabout are lovely. I really had no idea ‘whodunit’ and I loved the way you teased us with snippets sending us in all directions. I’m looking forward to your next one and thank you for a lovely read and an escape around the IOW.’‘All Mary Grand’s books are great reading and her latest is no exception. I loved it!’‘Truly could not put this book down and read on into the night. The main character is determined to save the mystery of her friend’s death and tho’ she was unwisely outspoken, at risk and often wrong, her efforts bring dividends. A reader has no option but to stay with her all the way.’‘I especially liked how the author gradually peeled back the layers. Layers of secrets and lies. I don’t know how many times I changed my mind about who the killer was. It was so well done, and I didn’t guess whodunnit until the reveal. I really enjoyed it and plan to read more from this author in the future.’

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Book Synopsis‘The police. They’re digging in the scrapyard.’Cal Lovett has spent half his life telling other people’s stories on his true crime podcast. But the police are close to solving the mystery of his sister’s disappearance – now he might finally get to tell Margot’s story.A desperate relative begs for his help.Cal seeks respite on a holiday in the Scottish Highlands, but is dragged into a new cold case: an unsolved murder that shattered a family fourteen years ago.An isolated community wary of outsiders.Eyes follow Cal everywhere. And someone makes it very clear that they don’t want him snooping around…How far will he go to find justice? And how far is far enough?The second thrilling instalment in the Cal Lovett Files, perfect for fans of Helen Fields, Jane Casey and Claire Douglas.Praise for Unburied 'Moody and broody and grandly atmospheric, blending the remote-community disquiet of The Wicker Man with the pace and edge of something altogether modern. Exceptionally good' A. J. Finn, author of The Woman in the Window'A tense and gripping tale that explores the complexities of motherhood' Heather Darwent, author of The Things We Do For Our Friends'Exquisite prose, an exhilarating case and expertly crafted. A perfect follow up to a brilliant debut' Sam Holland, author of The Twenty'A palpably intense yet tender novel... Flawlessly crafted, with one mystery nestled within another. An exquisite series' Dominic Nolan, author of Vine Street'Flawless plotting, an atmospheric sense of place and a deep dive into the characters' lives' Emma Styles, author of No Country For Girls'A cleverly constructed thriller... I adored everything about this book from the remote highland setting to the small town malice that seeps through the pages and across the years' Robert Scragg, author of End of the Line‘Wow what a book… I could not put it down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘A brilliant story that is gripping from start to end. This will keep you on the edge of your seat with some great surprises along the way.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘This was so good. The characters are well rounded and likeable… I can’t wait for more Cal!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘What a ride!! That book kept me guessing until the very end. I loved the pace and the speed of the book. I can’t wait to read more by this extremely talented author!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Gripping. I was hooked from the first chapter … so well written, perfectly paced and detailed, I was totally immersed in this world. If you like mystery, suspense and whodunnits this book is definitely for you! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

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Book SynopsisA witness with a secret. 24 hours to keep it.'A compelling crime thriller with a gritty, convincing edge. Great characters, razor-sharp dialogue, I couldn't put it down' Simon McCleave'Max Luther is one to watch for the future, and a standard for all to strive for' Graham BartlettWhen the witness protection program fails catastrophically, Sarah Bennett is forced to go on the run, narrowly escaping with her life as she is hunted across London by the organised crime group she is imminently due to testify against.With the National Crime Agency compromised, private bodyguard Alex Drayce is hired to find Sarah and keep her safe.But with Britain’s most powerful criminals on their trail, he’ll need to use every weapon in his arsenal to keep them both alive. Because one thing is certain: Sarah knows something these people want to keep hidden, and they’ll go to any lengths to keep it a secret.'Relentless, authentic and suspenseful, Nowhere to Hide is an incredible debut, combining high-octane action with emotional depth' Jeff Abbott, New York Times bestselling authorPraise for Nowhere to Hide 'I raced through it and loved it. I kept having to go back and check it was a debut, such was the accomplished writing style, the expertly drawn characters and the sheer quality of the story. It was a pulse-pounding race from start to finish, told with authenticity yet unflinching drama' Graham Bartlett'Steely, razor-sharp stuff' James Swallow'A five-star, spectacular high-octane thriller' C. J. Carver'From its jolting opening scene to the final pitch-perfect climax, Nowhere to Hide grips you by the throat and never lets go' M J Lee

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Book SynopsisEngland, 1716. The only certainty in a thief’s life… is death.Christopher Templeton is a lawyer whose conscience troubles him. He knows many of the secrets of The Fellowship, the shadowy group profiting from the civil unrest in the nation, and has intimated to the Company of Rogues that he is willing to share them.The problem is, he has vanished. Jonas Flynt – thief, gambler, killer – still recovering from a duel with death upon the frozen Thames, is tasked with finding him.The trail takes him from the dark slums of London to a quiet village in the north of England, where all is not as it seems. But while he hunts for the missing man, someone else may be stalking him… someone with murder in their heart.The new gripping historical mystery from the author of An Honourable Thief, longlisted for the McIlvanney Prize 2023. Perfect for fans of Abir Mukherjee, Craig Russell and S.G. MacLean.

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Book SynopsisMaverick investigator Dominic Queste is on the trail of missing butcher Sam Price. But he soon uncovers links to a killer with a taste for games. What began as a simple favour for his girlfriend quickly descends into a battle for survival against an enemy who has no qualms about turning victims into prime cuts. Amidst a twisted game of cat and mouse, suspicious coppers, vicious crooks and a seemingly random burglary, Queste has to keep his wits about him. Or he might just find himself on the butcher’s block.Trade Review“Skelton takes the usual ingredients of the crime novel then adds his own sparkle. Witty, well observed, compelling - this is a book you'll want to savour. A fine, fine writer, at the very top of his game.” -- Denzil MeyrickA thoroughly gripping whodunit that shows just how darkly humorous Tartan Noir can become: and how genuinely chilling it can be at the same time.” -- Undiscovered Scotland“There is a wonderful “old-school PI feel in modern times” about this book that I simply adored. With dry wit and off-the-cuff banter, the fast-paced plot will keep the reader turning the pages in this quirky, cool and fantastically clever storyline.” -- Crime Book Junkie“Stands out from the crowd… A highly entertaining and gripping read.” By the Letter blog; “Top-notch writing, top-notch storytelling, some brilliantly observed life realities and really believable, well-drawn characters.” -- Liz Loves Books"A dark, suspenseful thriller… top, top reading." Grab This Book; “Raymond Chandler meets Glasgow gangland: Dominic Queste is a breath of humorous fresh air in what is a dark, fast-paced, one-liner wisecrack of a read!” -- Chapter In My Life“The Dead Don’t Boogie introduced us to a memorable new star of Scottish crime fiction, but Tag – You’re Dead takes what Douglas Skelton started with that book and dials everything up to 11. Funnier, wittier, darker and more dangerous than its predecessor, it is a novel which dares you to put it down and wins every time.” -- Scots Whay Hae“A tense and exciting thriller. Gritty, memorable writing, a superb lead character, witty dry humour, all in a multi-layered, enjoyable story.” -- Random Things“So noir, you almost need a torch to read it… The style is authentic, heady and pitch-perfect… A fun read, a sobering one and every page is compelling.” -- Blue Book Balloon“Brilliant… a great story, with some fantastic characters.” -- Steph’s book blog

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Book SynopsisWhen Tia reluctantly agrees to look after Bindu, her peevish, grumpy granddaughter, during half term, the last thing that she expects is to spend the week unravelling the theft of a seventeenth century painting Head of a Girl, ‘Hedova’. Hoping to start a new and more exciting life, Robert sets himself up as an art thief. His first target? A picture from the Whitler Gallery, where Tia and her recently widowed colleague Douglas work. Follow Douglas and Tia, an unlikely detective duo, as they investigate the theft and race frantically across the city to prevent the painting from being destroyed. Can Robert prove that he’s got what it takes to embark on a life of crime? And can Tia and Douglas save Hedova? What’s Going on at The Whitler? is a gentle detective story with elements of humour and fantasy, all punctuated by commentary from a Greek chorus of talking portraits for a unique twist.

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Book SynopsisFUN, COLOURFUL ILLUSTRATIONS of the characters, places and objects important to super-sleuth Sherlock Holmes appear on every single cardLEARN MORE ABOUT HOLMES in the accompanying booklet, which includes expert notes on everything in the deckA 54 CARD DECK with standard playing card suits, numbers and court cards: can be used in exactly the same way as regular playing cardsEASY HANDLING: these high-quality cards will not crack or bend when shuffled or flexedTHE PERFECT GIFT for any bookworm, or fan of Sherlock HolmesThe game is afoot! Play your card games with Holmes and Watson, and other well-known characters from Arthur Conan-Doyle''s thrilling series. Discover more about the great detective''s comrades, clients and adversaries in a booklet packed with expert notes.

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Book Synopsis''Every new Agatha Raisin escapade is a total joy'' ASHLEY JENSEN''No wonder she''s been crowned Queen of Cosy Crime'' MAIL ON SUNDAY''A Beaton novel is like The Archers on speed'' DAILY MAIL''The detective novels of M C Beaton have reached cult status'' THE TIMESNothing could be more relaxing or sedate than a quiet game of bowls on a pristine bowling green bathed in the sunshine of an English summer''s afternoon in the Cotswolds - unless there''s a dead body lying on the grass.Agatha Raisin becomes embroiled in a turmoil of jealousy and lies when the tranquility of her local bowls club explodes into a storm of accusation and intrigue - and murder. Her private life is no less turbulent when a past suitor reappears just as her ex-husband seems intent on rekindling their romance, and her close friend, Bill Wong, is in danger of losing the woman he loves.Events take an even da

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Book SynopsisThe thrill of the chase, the steely-eyed detective (either gentle or hardboiled), the dark alleys and the double-cross, the unsolvable crime by a masterful criminal mind: this new title in our Gothic Fantasy Short Stories series features chills and double twists, unexpected turns and private investigators with an eye for the unusual, and contains a cunning mix of classic and brand new writing. Great detective thriller writers such as Arthur Conan Doyle, John Buchan, G.K. Chesterton, Arthur Morrison and the Mother of Detective fiction herself, Anna Katharine Green, join rarely seen tales and completely new stories by modern authors: B. Morris Allen, Donald J. Bingle, Tom English, T.Y. Euliano, Tracy Fahey, Tina L. Jens, Tom Mead, Jonathan Shipley, Cameron Trost, Marie Vibbert, and Desmond White. As always our submission windows are packed with great reads so the successful stories are always a joy to publish.

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Book SynopsisA classic British mystery set in the idyllic countryside.

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Book Synopsis''My new favourite cosy crime series!'' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐A DOLLOP OF JAM. A SPOT OF TEA. A SLICE OF MURDER . . .It has been a year since Tess had to trade the hustle and bustle of London life for pulling pints and moonlighting as a Cher impersonator in a backwater country pub.The sleepy Yorkshire village of Cherrywood would always be home, but a return to rural life wasn''t quite the path she''d paved for herself. Still, being back with her oldest friends, Raven and Oliver, was a definite upside and she was beginning to settle into the slower pace.That is until Clemmie Ackroyd, a stalwart member of the community, is brutally murdered. Ruled a robbery gone wrong, it''s an open-and-shut case for the police, but something isn''t quite adding up for Tess.Then an unexpected face from the past shows up in the village, pointing fingers, and Tess finds herself resolving to get

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Book SynopsisOne day, your son disappears from the playground. Ten years later, will you finally get the truth? The disappearance of firearms police officer Jonah Colley''s young son almost destroyed him. A phone call from an old friend leads Jonah to the warehouse Slaughter Quay, and the discovery of four bodies, with a link to his son''s case. Attacked and left for dead in the dark, Jonah is the only survivor. Under suspicion himself for what happened at Slaughter Quay, Jonah uncovers a network of secrets and lies about the people closest to him - forcing him to question what really happened to his son all those years ago... ''A terrific thriller from one of our finest crime writers at the top of his game.'' Peter James ''A roaring, full-throated thriller.'' Daily Mail ''First in a new series, this is a tense and twisty tale.'' The SunTrade ReviewA terrific thriller from one of our finest crime writers at the top of his game. * Peter James *a roaring, full-throated thriller -- Geoffrey Wansell * Daily Mail *A brutal, kinetic thrill ride. -- Lisa Howells * Crime Monthly *Beckett is an expert in doling out information in the right-sized snippets and at the right intervals to keep the tension high. -- Natasha Cooper * Literary Review *First in a new series, this is a tense and twisty tale. -- Bill Todd * The Sun *It's a cleverly plotted, page-turner of a thriller. *BOOK OF THE MONTH* * Choice Magazine *

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Book SynopsisDiscover the classic mystery from Dick Francis, one of the greatest thriller writers of all time''A whip cracking, page turning read with a twist in the tail'' 5***** Reader Review''Kept me turning the pages, full of twists and turns - Dick Francis at his best yet again!'' 5***** Reader Review______Jonah Dereham is a bloodstock agent who buys and sells horses for his clients. As an ex-jockey, it''s the ideal quiet life - until Jonah is attacked by thugs out to sabotage his business.Unfortunately for them, Jonah''s a man with a steely resolve. He''s determined to find out who is trying to ruin him, and why.But staying honest is more dangerous than Jonah could have imagined.And with his horses, his business and his own life on the line, Jonah must hit back - before he''s taken down for good . . .Packed with intrigue and hair-raising suspense, Knock Down is just one of the many blockbuster thrillers from legendary crime writer Dick Francis.Praise for Dick Francis:''As a jockey, Dick Francis was unbeatable when he got into his stride. The same is true of his crime writing'' Daily Mirror''The narrative is brisk and gripping and the background researched with care . . . the entire story is a pleasure to relish'' Scotsman''Dick Francis''s fiction has a secret ingredient - his inimitable knack of grabbing the reader''s attention on page one and holding it tight until the very end'' Sunday Telegraph''A regular winner . . . as smooth, swift and lean as ever'' Sunday Express''The master of suspense and intrigue'' Country Life''Francis writing at his best'' Evening Standard''Still the master'' Racing PostTrade ReviewA regular winner . . . as smooth, swift and lean as ever * Sunday Express *As a jockey, Dick Francis was unbeatable when he got into his stride. The same is true of his crime writing * Daily Mirror *

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Book Synopsis''Crais just gets better and better . . . Crais''s novels are as appealing as chocolate eclairs and just as satisfying. Trouble is, like cream cakes, I want to eat them all at once'' INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY''A nerve-racking, switchbacking tale of guilt and redemption...so good it gives you goosebumps'' EVENING STANDARDJoe Pike is out for revenge and no cop, no bad guy, no one alive, is going to stop him.Frank Meyer had got out of ''the life'' safely. He had put an end to his mercenary days, turned over a new leaf and settled down with his wife and children. It had been a hard decision but, encouraged by his boss and friend Joe Pike, he had walked away.Ten years later, a group of armed men break into his Los Angeles home and brutally gun down him and his family. It''s a vicious, cold and professional job. The crew leave no trace behind except the bodies.But they have made one catastrophic, and almost certainly tTrade ReviewA nerve-racking, switchbacking tale of guilt and redemption...so good it gives you goosebumps * EVENING STANDARD *Ah, the twist. The twist gives the book heart, the twist made me cry at the end. The twist makes this a classic Robert Crais novel and a marvellous Joe Pike story ... this spare book with its emotionally reserved main character is one of the most moving novels I've read this year -- Kristine Kathryn RuschCrais just gets better and better . . . Crais's novels are as appealing as chocolate eclairs and just as satisfying. Trouble is, like cream cakes, I want to eat them all at once * INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *Crais writes some of the snappiest procedurals coming out of the States * EVENING STANDARD *An adrenaline rush of a novel that's got the laconic verve of Lee Child's thrillers and the plot surprises of Michael Connelly's mysteries * SmartMoney *Crais once mroe proves himself to be one of the finest exponents of the genre in a gripping and complex story. * HUDDERSFIELD DAILY EXAMINER *

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Book SynopsisLucie Montgomery''s discovery of her grandfather''s Parisian romance unlocks a series of shocking secrets in the gripping new Wine Country mystery. In 1949, during her junior year abroad in Paris, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis bought several inexpensive paintings of Marie-Antoinette by a little-known 18th century female artist. She also had a romantic relationship with Virginia vineyard owner Lucie Montgomery''s French grandfather - until recently, a well-kept secret.Seventy years later, Cricket Delacroix, Lucie''s neighbor and Jackie''s schoolfriend, is donating the now priceless paintings to a Washington, DC museum. And Lucie''s grandfather is flying to Virginia for Cricket''s 90th birthday party, hosted by her daughter Harriet. A washed-up journalist, Harriet is rewriting a manuscript Jackie left behind about Marie-Antoinette and her portraitist. She''s also adding tell-all details about Jackie, sure to make the book a bestseller. Then on the eve of the party a world-famous landscape designer who also knew Jackie is found dead in Lucie''s vineyard. Did someone make good on the death threats he''d received because of his controversial book on climate change? Or was his murder tied to Jackie, the paintings, and Lucie''s beloved grandfather?

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Book SynopsisThe Fourth Enemy is the sixth gripping instalment in an exciting new generation of Pitt novels from the pen of highly acclaimed crime writer and New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry.A sensational fraud case provides Daniel Pitt with his greatest challenge yet . . .When a heart attack forces Marcus fford Croft to retire from his chambers, his daughter Miriam and son-in-law Daniel are relieved that he is stepping down and handing over to Toby Kitteridge. But Daniel and Toby are concerned that their new recruit, Gideon Hunter KC, who is a brilliant barrister with a penchant for taking risks, could jeopardise their chambers'' hard-won reputation . . .Daniel''s old friend Inspector Ian Frobisher then alerts him to the fact that one of England''s most influential newspaper tycoons, Malcolm Vayne, is about to be arrested for fraud. Hunter jumps at the chance to prosecute in such a high-profile and controversial case, and Daniel soTrade ReviewOne of her most teasing mysteries, this time with a courtroom finale that may be her strongest ever * Kirkus Reviews *A truly unusual mystery * Publishers Weekly *Elegantly constructed and nail-bitingly tense * Good Book Guide *Engrossing . . . The book gallops to a dramatic conclusion * Washington Times Daily *There is a freshness about [Perry's] writing which makes it truly exceptional * Eurocrime *Anne Perry's Victorian mysteries are marvels of plot construction * New York Times *

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Book Synopsis'Jane Casey's police procedurals go from strength to strength!' Sunday Times'If you have not read Jane Casey, start immediately' Marian Keyes'The most dangerously addictive series in crime fiction. . .' Erin Kelly_______________Jenny Shephard is twelve years old and missing.Her teacher, Sarah Finch, knows better than most that the chances of finding her alive are diminishing every day.As a little girl Sarah's older brother went out to play and never come home. The strain of not knowing what happened to him tore her family apart.When Sarah finds Jenny's body, beaten and abandoned in the woods near her home, she is drawn into the heart of the investigation and a media storm.Her presence at the scene arouses suspicions. But it is not just the police that are watching her...

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Book SynopsisThe Edgar Award-winning introduction to private investigator Kate Shugak, A Cold Day for Murder is the first in Dana Stabenow's critically acclaimed Kate Shugak mysteries. Kate Shugak is a native Aleut working as a private investigator in Alaska. She's five foot, one inch tall, carries a scar that runs from ear to ear across her throat, and owns a half-wolf, half-husky dog named Mutt. Resourceful, strong-willed, defiant, Kate is tougher than your average heroine – and she needs to be to survive the worst the Alaskan wilds can throw at her. Somewhere in twenty million acres of forest and glaciers, a ranger has disappeared: Mark Miller. Missing six weeks. It's assumed by the National Park Service that Miller has been caught in a snowstorm and frozen to death: the typical fate of those who get lost in this vast and desolate terrain. But as a favour to his congressman father, the FBI send in an investigator: Ken Dahl. Last heard from two weeks and two days ago. Now it's time to send in a professional. Kate Shugak: light brown eyes, black hair, five foot one with an angry scar from ear to ear. Last seen yesterday... Reviewers on Dana Stabenow's Kate Shugak series: 'An antidote to sugary female sleuths: Kate Shugak, the Aleut private investigator.' New York Times 'Crime fiction doesn't get much better than this.' Booklist 'If you are looking for something unique in the field of crime fiction, Kate Shugak is the answer.' Michael Connelly 'An outstanding series.' Washington Post 'One of the strongest voices in crime fiction.' Seattle TimesTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE KATE SHUGAK SERIES: 'If you are looking for something unique in the field of crime fiction, Kate Shugak is the answer' Michael Connelly. 'An antidote to sugary female sleuths: Kate Shugak, the Aleut private investigator' New York Times. 'Stabenow is blessed with a rich prose style and a fine eye for detail. An outstanding series' Washington Post. 'Crime fiction doesn't get much better than this' Booklist. 'Sparkles with energy and wit, and packs an unexpected punch' Publishers Weekly. 'For rich, idiosyncratic settings and engaging characters... let me recommend Dana Stabenow' -- Diana Gabaldon

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Book Synopsis**Soon to be a major Netflix film starring Christian Bale and Gillian Anderson**April 19th, 1831. In two or three hours I''ll be dead.So begins the chilling last testament of Gus Landor, a retired New York City police constable, whose numerous talents include code-breaking, riot control and the ''gloveless interrogation''. A young cadet has been found hanged at a military academy on the shores of the Hudson River. Before his body could be buried, however, it was stolen and his heart brutally carved out.Fearing a scandal, the top brass at West Point have summoned Landor to help catch the culprit, and keep his discoveries away from prying eyes. As Landor embarks on a thrilling adventure to solve the case, he uncovers a series of dark secrets and finds unlikely assistance in the form of a mischievous young cadet named Edgar Allan Poe.Full of drama and unexpected twists, The Pale Blue Eye is a brilliantly haunting and atmospheric historicTrade ReviewReally outstanding crime fiction is rare . . . so it's a joy to see Louis Bayard pull off this coup . . . As gory and melodramatic as Poe's own writing . . . brilliantly plotted and completely absorbing, ending with the kind of shock that few novelists are able to deliver * Sunday Times *Hardback fiction worth looking out for * Publishing News *A most satisfying murder mystery * Bookseller *Bayard's shockingly clever and devoutly unsentimental new mystery reads like a lost classic . . . Bayard reinvigorates historical fiction, rendering the 19th century as if he'd witnessed it firsthand * New York Times *An immensely satisfying whodunit, richly imaginative . . . Good, clean homicidal fun -- Kate Saunders * The Times *The Pale Blue Eye kept me transfixed . . . a moody, cunning mystery . . . In the course of the narrative, Bayard ingeniously weaves in motifs from Poe's work to thrilling effect * Observer *A Dickensian thriller strong on atmosphere * Sunday Telegraph *Louis Bayard is a writer of remarkable gifts: for language, for imagination, for that mysterious admixture of audacity and craftsmanship that signals a major talent in the making -- Joyce Carol OatesA tour de force, an intense and gripping novel . . . This beautifully crafted thriller stands head and shoulders above other recent attempts to fictionalise Poe * Publishers Weekly *In THE PALE BLUE EYE, Louis Bayard pays a stunning and fitting tribute to Edgar Allan Poe - not only in his crafting of a twisty, Gothic mystery that would have delighted the master himself, but in his use of a young Poe as a character. A gorgeous, melancholic tale from a fearless writer. I can't wait to see what Bayard does next -- Laura Lipman, author of TO THE POWER OF THREEDazzling * Scotsman *A fictional mystery in a real historical background * Sunday Telegraph *PRAISE FOR THE FILMA Netflix historical thriller stuffed with Gothic flourishes * Financial Times *An appealingly icy, moody, twisty, Gothic fiction work rooted in the same themes that Poe explored * Flickering Myth *The Pale Blue Eye is all at once a melancholic romance, arevenger's tragedy, and an intriguing mystery * Little White Lies *A thrilling whodunnit with an irresistible gothic mood * The Upcoming *Moves with elegant severity, like a film about 19th-century murder should * Independent *The Pale Blue Eye feels both fresh and reminiscent of the golden age of the Western drama * Jewish Chronicle *As cozy as a blanket of thorns - but then, you don't go to Poe for a good cuddle, and The Pale Blue Eye gets that. This is one foreboding snow globe of a movie * Time Magazine *

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Book SynopsisThe thrilling new standalone suspense novel from Sweden's answer to Val McDermid and Sunday Times Book of the Month author, Anders de la Motte.**DON'T MISS DEEDS OF AUTUMN. AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER NOW**'Tightly plotted and dark with psychological suspense, intriguing characters and vivid milieus that never stop delivering' KATRINE ENGBERG, author of the Korner and Werner seriesIT WAS ALWAYS GOING TO BE A NIGHT TO REMEMBERWINTER 1987Laura is excited to spend Christmas as usual with her beloved aunt Hedda and her friends. But her festive mood soon turns sour as she finds both old faces and new are keeping secrets from her. When a fire claims the life of her best friend, the scars of that night will remain with Laura for the rest of her life.TODAYWith her aunt's death, Laura inherits the cabin village Hedda used to manage and is forced to return to the town she hasn't set foot in since the tragedy. Laura's presence stirs up repressed emotions in the small community and it isn't long before a series of arson attacks casts suspicion on her. Though Laura is desperate to leave, she learns her aunt discovered something about that fateful night not long before she died.BUT SOMEONE WANTS THE PAST TO STAY BURIED . . .PRAISE FOR ANDERS DE LA MOTTE:'For fans of the hugely successful CWA Gold Dagger-winning The Dry by Jane Harper' VASEEM KHAN'One of Sweden's most talented crime fiction authors' ERIK AXL SUNDTrade ReviewAnders de la Motte has quickly become one of my favourite crime writers. His writing is tightly plotted and dark with psychological suspense, intriguing characters and vivid milieus that never stop delivering * Katrine Engberg, author of the Korner and Werner series *An involving, stand-alone suspense novel * Choice *

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Book Synopsis'Clever. Compulsive. Deliciously creepy. Invite me in? Yes, please. I didn't want to leave.' Jane Corry, author of MY HUSBAND'S WIFETo those who think they know her, Eliza Curran has it all: two healthy children, a stunning home and a wealthy, adoring husband. No one would guess the reality of her life: trapped in an unhappy marriage to a controlling man, she longs for a way out.When she takes on a new tenant, her life changes unexpectedly. Dan Jones is charming and perceptive, and quickly becomes a close friend to the whole family.But Dan's arrival threatens to tip Eliza's fragile world out of balance. And when someone has as many secrets as Eliza does, the smallest slip could destroy everything . . .'Incredibly tense and gripping, Invite Me In kept me guessing right til the end' Laura Marshall, author of FRIEND REQUEST'Invite Me In is a masterclass in building suspense' Trisha Sakhlecha, author of CAN YOU SEE ME NOW'Curtis teases the reader forward, making them guess and second-guess, and guess again - by the last third, I was biting my nails' S. E. Lynes, author of THE HOUSEWARMINGTrade ReviewShocking, tense, and packed with intrigue - another expertly crafted must-read from Emma Curtis! * Lauren North, author of THE PERFECT BETRAYAL *Emma Curtis has done it again! With strong, memorable characters, elegant prose and an ever-tightening sense of dread, Invite Me In has all the ingredients of a classic psychological thriller. * Nicola Rayner, author of THE GIRL BEFORE YOU and YOU AND ME *An engrossing and surprising read that crackles with toxic relationships, dark secrets and simmering tensions. Emma Curtis has done it again - Invite Me In is a masterclass in building suspense. * Trisha Sakhlecha, author of CAN YOU SEE ME NOW *Curtis teases the reader forward, making them guess and second-guess, and guess again - by the last third I was biting my nails. You know you're in safe hands with Emma Curtis; the best thing to do is buckle up and enjoy the ride. * S. E. Lynes, author of THE HOUSEWARMING *OMG what a brilliant story. Intriguing, unpredictable and so very twisty. I never knew who to trust! Loved it. * Claire Douglas, author of JUST LIKE THE OTHER GIRLS *Stayed up far too late reading Invite Me In as I couldn't put it down! A chilling portrayal of coercive control with brilliantly flawed characters. I loved it. * Nikki Smith, author of ALL IN HER HEAD *Clever. Compulsive. Deliciously creepy. Invite me in? Yes please. I didn't want to leave. * Jane Corry, author of MY HUSBAND'S WIFE *Loved this gripping psychological thriller with its clever plot and convincing characters. An original premise that draws you in with an unexpected twist. * Jenny Quintana, author of THE HIDING PLACE *Brilliant pacing, a great cast of intriguing and all-too-believable dislikable characters, and a very satisfying ending. It's a masterclass in domestic noir - I loved it. * Andrea Mara, author of ALL HER FAULT *Sophisticated, intelligent and deftly woven, Emma Curtis has crafted another "guess, then guess again" psychological thriller to keep the reader hooked until the very last page. * Kerry Fisher, author of THE SILENT WIFE *I loved this! Invite Me In offers a deep dive into the unnerving complexities of an unravelling family, with characters that are brilliantly developed and a plot that unspools with thrilling unease. With a book that is complex, clever and brilliantly executed, Curtis has become a new favourite on my thriller-author list! * Philippa East, author of SAFE AND SOUND *Gripping, claustrophobic and nuanced with a convincing and interesting cast of characters - loved it. * Catherine Cooper, bestselling author of THE CHALET *Incredibly tense and gripping, Invite Me In kept me guessing right til the end. * Laura Marshall, author of FRIEND REQUEST *Gripping escapism. A breathlessly twisty psychological thriller full of toxic relationships and dark secrets. * Tammy Cohen, author of THE WEDDING PARTY *So much tension and drama. * Jackie Kabler, author of THE PERFECT COUPLE *I loved Invite Me In - every time I thought I'd cracked where the story was going, Emma Curtis had me fooled... such an eerie, palpable, wild-ride of a thriller with a storyline that is impossible to predict. Not to be missed! * Jack Jordan, author of BEFORE HER EYES *I enjoyed the compelling plot and and especially admired the skilful building of the characters - complex, flawed and intriguing. * Jane Shemilt, author of LITTLE FRIENDS *Bloody and disturbing in equal parts. * Daily Mail *I flew through this novel...[it] will leave the hairs on your arms standing up. You're constantly second guessing, and third guessing as to where it's going. * Belfast Telegraph *With a cracking plot and twisty ending, don't miss this tense whirlwind of a book! * Candis *Twist follows twist in this event-packed drama, full of toxic characters. * Real People *A tense page turner. * Bella *If you're like us, you'll read this is one sitting! * That's Life! *This tense psychological thriller simmers with suspense throughout - you'll be totally hooked! * My Weekly *An intriguing domestic noir...Curtis will keep you guessing with this one. * NB Magazine *

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Book SynopsisLove Miss Marple? Adore Holmes and Watson? Professor Morley's guide to Norfolk is a story of bygone England; quaint villages, eccentric locals and murder!It is 1937 and disillusioned Spanish Civil War veteran Stephen Sefton is stony broke. So when he sees a mysterious advertisement for a job where intelligence is essential', he applies.Thus begins Sefton's association with Professor Swanton Morley, an omnivorous intellect. Morley's latest project is a history of traditional England, with a guide to every county.They start in Norfolk, but when the vicar of Blakeney is found hanging from his church's bellrope, Morley and Sefton find themselves drawn into a rather more fiendish plot. Did the Reverend really take his own life, or was it murder?Beginning a thrilling new detective series, The Norfolk Mystery' is the first of The County Guides. A must-read for fans of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie, every county is a crime scene and no-one is above suspicion!Trade ReviewPraise for ‘The Norfolk Mystery’: ‘A delightful, idiosyncratic mystery set in the Thirties … There is a touch of Sherlock Holmes and a dash of Lord Peter Wimsey, but the total is put together with a charm that is teasingly precious … Beautifully crafted by Sansom, Professor Morely promises to become a little gem of English crime writing; sample him now’ Daily Mail ‘Sansom is both celebrating and sending up the golden age of detective novels when, in the 1930s, Dorothy L Sayers and Agatha Christie were the queens of crime … A brilliant first outing that leaves you looking forward to the next maniacal mystery tour’ Mark Sanderson, Evening Standard

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Book SynopsisCreepy and compelling' HARRIET TYCEBrilliant filled with tension and twists' SARAH PINBOROUGHAn unsettling, terrifying thriller' ABIGAIL DEANMasterclass in suspense' THE TIMESWill have you up all night with the lights on' ELLEWhat if your mother had been writing to a serial killer?A convicted murderer with a story to tellSerial killer Michael Reave known as The Red Wolf has been locked in Belmarsh Prison for over 20 years for the brutal and ritualistic murders of countless women.A grieving daughter with a secret to unearthEx-journalist Heather Evans returns to her childhood home after her mother's inexplicable suicide and discovers something chilling hundreds of letters between her mother and Reave, dating back decades.A hunt for a killer ready to strike againWhen the body of a woman is found decorated with flowers, just like his victims, Reave is the only person alive who could help. After years of silence, he will speak to Heather, and only Heather.If she wants to unearth the truTrade Review‘Reminiscent of Sharp Objects, this chilling British serial killer thriller had me gripped. Filled with tension and twists, Jen Williams manages to deftly unravel the killer’s dark and deadly secrets to an ending that you won’t see coming’ Sarah Pinborough, Sunday Times Bestselling author of Behind Her Eyes ‘An unsettling pastoral thriller, which grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. Part-Midsommar, part-Hereditary, part-Mindhunter – and entirely terrifying’ Abigail Dean, author of Girl A ‘It’s dark as a Grimm fairy tale and brimming with secrets. With its terrifying story of a serial killer, and the woman who’s recently uncovered her mother’s connection to him, this novel will appeal to – and deeply chill – fans of true crime’ Megan Collins, author of The Winter Sister ‘A clever, chilling crime novel with a perplexing mystery, compelling storytelling and vivid characters’ Jane Casey ‘A taut and stylish thriller … Riveting from the first page’ E.G Scott, bestselling author of The Woman Inside ‘Intense and with a seam of gallows humour, Dog Rose Dirt is terrifying, fun, and insightful’ Nathan Ripley, bestselling author of Find You in the Dark ‘Creepy and compelling, [Dog Rose Dirt] is a truly disturbing take on a serial killer narrative. I read it heart in mouth!’ Harriet Tyce, Sunday Times Bestselling author of Blood Orange ‘Masterfully plotted and heart-poundingly tense, Jen Williams combines British folklore, cults, and the most chilling serial killer to grace the page in years – creating a thriller that's both mesmerising, and utterly terrifying’ Katie Lowe, author of The Furies ‘A tense, gripping and original read, with one of the creepiest serial killers I’ve encountered in a long time’ Amy McCulloch

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Book SynopsisAs inventive as Agatha Christie, as hilarious as P.G. Wodehouse discover the delightful detective stories of Edmund Crispin. Crime fiction at its quirkiest and best.Long inhabited by a collection of profoundly offbeat locals, there has been a recent influx of the newly rich and well to do arriving in the village of Cotten Abbas and not everyone is happy about it. New arrivals are receiving anonymous letters that know a little too much about dark secrets and dirty laundry.Gervase Fen is summoned to the scene, but soon finds more than he bargained for. A suicide on Friday, a murder by Sunday, and some villagers that seem hell bent on keeping this mystery unsolvedTrade Review‘Both the mature and the discerning young choose to pick up one of Crispin's beautifully turned crime novels’ The Times ‘Crispin isn't in it for the mystery, but for the enigmas’ Guardian ‘His books are full of high spirits and excellent jokes, with constant literary allusions and an atmosphere of bibulous good humour. But at times the mood turns darker, and Crispin is capable of passages of both genuine suspense and ingenius deduction’ Daily Telegraph ‘Crispin is noted for an ability to embellish clever story lines with Marx Brothers touches’ New York Times ‘Rightly elevated to classic status’ New York Sun

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Book SynopsisAs inventive as Agatha Christie, as hilarious as P.G. Wodehouse discover the delightful detective stories of Edmund Crispin. Crime fiction at its quirkiest and best.When a decapitated head is seen floating down the river in the Devon village of Aller, the rural calm is shattered. Soon the corpses are multiplying, and the entire community is involved in the hunt for the murderer.Whilst many chase false trails, it is left to Gervase Fen, Oxford don and amateur criminologist, to uncover the sordid truthTrade Review‘Both the mature and the discerning young choose to pick up one of Crispin's beautifully turned crime novels’ The Times ‘Crispin isn't in it for the mystery, but for the enigmas’ Guardian ‘His books are full of high spirits and excellent jokes, with constant literary allusions and an atmosphere of bibulous good humour. But at times the mood turns darker, and Crispin is capable of passages of both genuine suspense and ingenius deduction’ Daily Telegraph ‘Crispin is noted for an ability to embellish clever story lines with Marx Brothers touches’ New York Times ‘Rightly elevated to classic status’ New York Sun

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Book SynopsisPretty sure I''m a sociopath. I''m not ashamed of it. In fact, it''s something I quite like.Yellowface meets You - a gripping and addictive psychological thriller about toxic friendship and dark academia.A dark triumph with jaw-dropping twists' Heather Darwent, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Things We Do To Our FriendsJane is unhappy. She's a struggling writer trapped in an underwhelming marriage with husband Ted, scraping by to pay for a mortgage for a house and a life that she's never really wanted.There's only ever been one person she cared about, one person who truly understood her: Thalia. Jane's best and only friend nearly a decade ago during their time together at Oxford. But then the night of the formal which should have bound them together for good, drove them apart. Until now.Because after years of searching, Thalia is everywhere as she tops the New York Times bestseller list. And now Jane has found Thalia after all these years, she won't let her goReaders were grippeTrade Review Praise for Jesse Sutanto and Dial A For Aunties: ‘Charming, hilarious and heartfelt’ Emily Henry, New York Times bestselling author of Beach Read ‘Doused in black humour, comical references, mixed with romance – fans of Crazy Rich Asians will love it’ My Weekly ‘Brilliant, wicked and dead, dead funny’ Andi Osho, Asking For A Friend ‘A gloriously screwball crime caper (with a dusting of romance) which will have you snort-laughing’ Red ‘One of the funniest, smartest, most compelling books I’ve read in a long time and I couldn’t put it down’ Lucy Vine, Hot Mess ‘Rejoice over Dial A For Aunties’ Elle ‘This smart, funny charming novel has all the right ingredients to make you laugh out loud… ’ Platinum ‘Dial A For Aunties keeps you guessing till the very last twist’ Lauren Ho, Last Tang Standing ‘Has redefined what “page-turner” means with laugh-out-loud humour and delightful twists and turns at every corner’ Buzzfeed ‘A rip-roaring treat! Dark comedy at its finest and a set of catastrophes that had me roaring’ Abigail Mann, The Lonely Fajita ‘This laugh-out-loud read is a real breath of fresh air’ Fabulous ‘Dark humour at its best. We had such a laugh reading through’ Magic Radio Bookclub ‘The comedy jackpot! Fresh, funny and fabulous’ Kirsty Eyre, Cow Girl ‘A laugh-out-loud read’ Bella ‘Genuine laugh-out-loud funny’ Frost ’A comedy of errors, by turns macabre and romantic, hilarious and affectionate’ Saga

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Book SynopsisAn unimaginably suspenseful thriller, with twist after twist' HeatA gripping thriller . . . Highly recommended' C.S. GreenDon't miss R.M. Ward's latest thriller, THE GIRL WHO VANISHEDShe should have been safeBut she never came home.Kath has lived on the same London estate for decades. Lately she's become friendly with the little girl next door, who is often left alone for hours at a time while her mum is at work.They have a system. When Mina gets home from school to the empty flat, she knocks on the wall three times. Knock, knock, knock. I'm home safe and sound.But one day Mina's knock doesn't come. Kath raises the alarm and the police begin the search. Kath was the only person looking out for Mina now she might be the only one who can bring her home.Unputdownable psychological suspense for fans of K.L. Slater, Shalini Boland and Louise Jensen.Readers are GRIPPED by Safe With YouI thought I knew what the outcome was going to be I couldn't have been more wrong. This is an exceptional tTrade ReviewPraise for R.M. Ward ‘I was completely gripped! The characters are so well drawn and the twists were shocking, yet completely plausible’ Keren David on Safe With You ‘A gripping thriller with characters I really cared about. Highly recommended’ C.S. Green on Safe With You

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Book SynopsisSpeak now or forever rest in peace . . .A pacy debut that ensnares' ADELE PARKS-THE PERFECT FIANCÉ.When Victoria's best friend Gwen announces she is marrying the rich and handsome Michael, celebrations are strained. Victoria doesn't trust Michael he's hiding something. And he reminds her of someone she needs to forget.THE DREAM WEDDING PLAN.Too loved up to see Michael's dark side, Gwen drags Victoria into a whirlwind of dress shopping, engagement drinks and elaborate maid-of-honour duties. Meanwhile, a mysterious visitor is leaving unwanted gifts in Victoria's home, and Michael is becoming aggressive: no one gets between me and Gwen.TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?The clock is ticking until the big day. Will Victoria expose Michael's secret, and save her best friend from a marriage made in hell? Or will her past catch up with her first?*THE UNMISSABLE DEBUT THRILLER FOR FANS OF T.M. LOGAN, TAMMY COHEN AND CAROLINE KEPNES**SHORTLISTED FOR THE OWNED VOICES NOVEL AWARD 2022*-What readers are saying Trade Review‘I bounced through this page turner. A pacy debut that ensnares’ ADELE PARKS, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of Both of You ‘Utterly gripping from cover to cover. Nasheema Lennon has announced her arrival with an absolutely stonking thriller. I didn’t want it to end!’ JONATHAN WHITELAW, author of The Bingo Hall Detectives ‘A thrilling read that has heart, character and tension, to keep you hooked to the very end’ The Sun - NetGalley readers are loving The Engagement . . . ‘Awesome twists . . . OMG it was wonderful’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The story had me page turning like mad, and the end . . . Well let’s just say I was pretty shocked!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A twist in a twist’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Can’t wait for the next book!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A brilliant read’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A perfect wee read for these dark and cosy nights’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Nasheema Lennon looks certain to have a bright future ahead of her’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Everything you want from a thriller – fast-paced, full of twists and turns and unpredictable’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Kept me glued to the pages’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I read it in one sitting’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The ending is one that I certainly didn’t see coming’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I could not put it down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - NetGalley reviews

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Book SynopsisA brilliant whodunnit mystery perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Richard Osman!Murder stalks the cobbles in England's finest Georgian townWhen an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family's auction house in Stamford, she vows it'll only be a flying visit. But as the gavel falls on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealedthe body of her father's business rival, murdered during the packed sale!Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the community as a potential suspect?including her.As the body count rises and with the people she loves under threat, Felicia takes matters into her own hands. But even the most picturesque place has its secretsCover illustrated by local Stamford illustrator Katie Cardew. Discover more at www.katiecardew.comCosy crime readers are loving E.C. Bateman:Ideal for fans of Richard Osman's booksBeautifully set in the gorgeous Stamford, this murder mystery will keep you guessing as the bodies stack up! Full of red herrings, twists and tuTrade Review‘The action at an auction is truly inspired…I don't live too far from Stamford and I love the idea that its sleepy yet glorious appearance hides some nefarious goings on’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Love how punchy the start of this is…up there in terms of close knit communities, tension and surprises aplenty’⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book Synopsis''Mr. Holmes, they were the footprints of a gigantic hound!''The death, quite suddenly, of Sir Charles Baskerville in mysterious circumstances is the trigger for one of the most extraordinary cases ever to challenge the brilliant analytical mind of Sherlock Holmes. As rumours of a legendary hound said to haunt the Baskerville family circulate, Holmes and Watson are asked to ensure the protection of Sir Charles'' only heir, Sir Henry - who has travelled all the way from America to reside at Baskerville Hall in Devon. And it is there, in an isolated mansion surrounded by mile after mile of wild moor, that Holmes and Watson come face to face with a terrifying evil that reaches out from centuries past . . .Trade ReviewSherlock Holmes's best ... remains a classic -- Marcel Berlins * The Times *

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin.THE SECOND NOVEL IN THE RECORD-BREAKING, MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING THURSDAY MURDER CLUB SERIES BY RICHARD OSMANIt''s the following Thursday.Elizabeth has received a letter from an old colleague, a man with whom she has a long history. He''s made a big mistake, and he needs her help. His story involves stolen diamonds, a violent mobster, and a very real threat to his life.As bodies start piling up, Elizabeth enlists Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron in the hunt for a ruthless murderer. And if they find the diamonds too? Well, wouldn''t that be a bonus?But this time they are up against an enemy who wouldn''t bat an eyelid at knocking off four septuagenarians. Can The Thursday Murder Club find the killer (and the diamonds) before the killer finds them?What people are saying about THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB:''A warm, wise and witty warning never to underestimate the elderly'' VAL MCDERMID''STrade Review'This slick sequel will leave you buzzing' * The Times *'Superbly entertaining' * Guardian *'Warm, funny and oh-so British' * I Paper *

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin.A new mystery is afoot in the third book in the Thursday Murder Club series from record-breaking, bestselling author Richard Osman.It is an ordinary Thursday and things should finally be returning to normal. Except trouble is never far away where the Thursday Murder Club are concerned. A decade-old cold case leads them to a local news legend and a murder with no body and no answers. Then a new foe pays Elizabeth a visit. Her mission? Kill. . . or be killed. As the cold case turns white hot, Elizabeth wrestles with her conscience (and a gun), while Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim chase down clues with help from old friends and new. But can the gang solve the mystery and save Elizabeth before the murderer strikes again?2022 Richard Osman (P)2022 Penguin AudioTrade ReviewHumour is gently threaded through every element * Observer *Unlike the bullet, Richard Osman seems incapable of missing * The Times *Delivered with the sharp wit that we associate with Osman * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisSimon Kernick is one of Britain's most exciting thriller writers. He arrived on the crime writing scene with his highly acclaimed debut novel The Business of Dying, the story of a corrupt cop moonlighting as a hitman. Simon's big breakthrough came with his novel Relentless which was the biggest selling thriller of 2007. His most recent crime thrillers include Siege, Ultimatum, Stay Alive and The Final Minute. He is also the author of the bestselling three-part serial thrillers Dead Man's Gift and One By One.Simon talks both on and off the record to members of the Counter Terrorism Command and the Serious and Organised Crime Agency, so he gets to hear first hand what actually happens in the dark and murky underbelly of UK crime.Trade ReviewSimon Kernick writes with his foot pressed hard on the pedal. Hang on tight! -- Harlan CobenSimon Kernick writes great plots, great action, great action -- Lee ChildSimon Kernick uses every trick in the book to keep the action breakneck * Time Out *Kernick generates a potent cocktail of thrills that makes contemporary London feel like Dodge City * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisGossip columnist Lorna Whitcomb knows every dirty secret in Hollywood . . . except who killed her tipster. Sleuthing duo Lillian Frost and Edith Head investigate in this head-turning mystery.1940, Los Angeles. Hollywood''s famous gossip columnist, Lorna Whitcomb, has summoned Lillian Frost and her sleuthing partner, costume designer extraordinaire Edith Head, to her office. Lorna''s ''leg man'' Sam Simcoe - the man who finds the scandalous material for her column - is in trouble. Tipster Glenn Hoyle has been murdered, and Sam is the LAPD''s only suspect. But Sam didn''t just find Glenn''s body when he paid him a visit. Hiding in a wastebasket was a list of three names - a starlet, a producer and a director - and Sam''s sure Glenn had an explosive story on all of them. Was it just idle gossip, or could it explain his murder?Lorna wants Edith and Lillian to find Glenn''s killer before her powerful enemies strike. In a town full of secrets, Edith an

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Book SynopsisA case of stolen shoes leads maverick Chicago PI Sam Kelson into something far darker and deeper in the second of this hardhitting crime noir series.My boyfriend''s been stealing my Jimmy Choos. Genevieve Bower has hired private investigator Sam Kelson to recover her stolen shoes from her soon-to-be ex-boyfriend. The problem is that no one''s seen Genevieve''s boyfriend for the past two weeks.Events take a disturbing twist when, in his search for the shoes, Kelson comes across a body, shot in the head. A clear-cut case of suicide - or is it? Has Kelson''s client been wholly honest with him? What is this case really about?At the same time, an explosion rips through one of the city''s public libraries, leaving a friend''s nephew critically injured. Could there be a connection? If there is, Kelson''s determined to find it. But Kelson''s not like other investigators. Taking a bullet in the brain during his former career as a Chicago cop, he

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Book SynopsisWisconsin coffeehouse owner Maggy Thorsen attempts to solve a mystery steeped in shocking family secrets, tragedy and murder.Maggy Thorsen''s new neighbours, Philip and Vivian Woodward, are forging ahead with their plans for The Big Steep tea shop. Philip''s enthusiasm to turn the neglected cottage once owned by Vivian''s reclusive grandparents, the Koepplers, into a tea lover''s paradise is infectious, but Vivian seems less excited. And when Maggy''s sheepdog Frank arrives at Uncommon Grounds coffeehouse bearing a ''gift'' he discovered in the Woodwards'' compost heap, the tea shop project takes a chilling turn . . .As the Woodwards'' backyard becomes a crime scene, a deadly chain of events is set in motion. Can Maggy dig up the truth of what happened at the cottage many years ago before further tragedy strikes?

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Book SynopsisIn this hard-hitting standalone thriller from Sally Spencer, a crash survivor discovers dark family secrets as he tries to stay alive.Bristol, 1991. Crammed into a hire car, on their way to a vital appointment, five representatives of Conroy Enterprises are running very late. Rob Conroy, the black sheep of the family, is torn between spiteful amusement at his Uncle Tony''s irritation and anxiety for the future. If Conroy Enterprises fails, it will bring Rob''s own small publishing company down with it.But in the space of just two hours, everything changes. The car crashes, leaving Rob the only survivor. And almost simultaneously, Charles Conroy, the elderly family patriarch - who holds control of the company in his iron fist - dies of old age.As Rob and his few remaining relatives struggle to make sense of it all, one thing becomes painfully clear: the crash was not an accident. Which means, Rob soon realizes, the intended victim might no

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Book SynopsisAfter losing her job and her boyfriend, Emily inherits a cottage in a picturesque village and finds herself the unwilling owner of a puppy. She quickly discovers that Poppy is clever and affectionate, and learns to love the little dog. Emily has a tendency to find herself in danger and, luckily, Poppy is always there to rescue her new...Trade ReviewFun and heartwarming with all the mystery and tight plotting you'd expect from Leigh Russell -- Victoria Selman, Sunday Times Bestelling author of Truly, Darkly, DeeplyThis book is an easy read if you like English village setting with a dose of mystery and intrigue -- Sue HillFast-paced, fun and featuring a fiendish puzzle, Barking Up the Right Tree is a great start to Leigh Russell's first cosy mystery series. * Crime Fiction Lover *All dog lovers will love this fun read cosy crime. And if you are not a dog lover, you will still enjoy it as it is full of mystery, romance, and who doesn't love a crime to solve, certainly not us mystery readers. Well done Leigh Russell. I look forward, very much, to Poppy and Emily's next outing * Mystery People *

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Book SynopsisEveryone's favourite sleuth - Vera Kelly - is back and put to the test as she searches for her missing girlfriend. In Vera Kelly Lost and Found, Rosalie Knecht gives Vera her highest-stakes case yet, as Vera quickly puts her private detective skills to good use and has to decide how much she is willing to commit to save the...Trade ReviewI've anticipated few novels this year with as much excitement as Vera Kelly Lost and Found, the final volume in Rosalie Knecht's nearly note-perfect 1960s-era private detective trilogy. . . . Knecht's writing, crisp and taut, cuts through the landscape with lacerating swiftness -- Sarah Weinman * The New York Times *Engaging and often funny... The heart of the novel-Vera's introspections on disappointed family and society's reactions to a same-sex couple-will resonate with many readers -- G. J. Berger * Historical Novel Society *Concludes the trilogy at the highest possible level * The New York Times *I've anticipated few novels this year with as much excitement as Vera Kelly Lost and Found... Any trepidation I had about it not measuring up vanished with the opening sentences * New York Times *Once more Rosalie Knecht proves herself one of the finest writers in the genre: brisk, witty, and emotionally intelligent. The much-anticipated return of Vera Kelly turns a tight plot around the failures of family and high stakes love, betrayal and the unlikely adventure toward self acceptance. This novel is a pleasure, as wise as it is thrilling -- Tracy O'Neill, author of Quotients

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Book SynopsisSisters Ellie and Meg Christie share a love of books, reading, and the Book Chalet - their family''s historic bookshop tucked midway up a scenic Colorado mountain. But romance? That''s another story.So when their cousin signs them up for her newest business venture - matchmaking based on bookish tastes - the sisters approach their blind double dates with foot-dragging dread. And while Ellie''s date meets her low expectations, Meg''s match, a book-loving romantic straight out of classic literature, is a charming surprise . . .. . . until he turns up murdered the next morning. As the last known person to have seen the victim alive, Meg becomes a prime suspect in his death and soon the sisters must sift through secrets deeper than the February snowfall and once again summon their inner Miss Marple to sleuth out the truth before it''s too late.The Christie sisters are back and this time they''re flirting with cold-hearted crime when bo

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Book SynopsisJuliet Reid wasn''t able to save her murdered brother almost ten years ago. Can she face her demons to stop an ice-cold killer in their tracks a decade later? Nine and a half years ago, Juliet''s talented brother Fin should have returned home. He didn''t. When Juliet set out to find him that snowy winter evening, she made a devastating discovery. Now, Juliet returns to the small town of Parrish, Ohio to celebrate her twenty-fifth birthday with her parents. But when she arrives, she receives the shocking news that her father appears to have committed suicide. Why was he so distant shortly before his death? And why was he suddenly asking questions about Fin before his brutal murder? As Juliet tries to come to terms with another family tragedy, she finds herself at the center of a series of spine-tingling events. What chilling secrets did her father uncover, and can she stop an ice-cold killer who''s determined to keep them hidden?

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Book SynopsisHollywood intrigue, glamor . . . and murder: Enter the roaring twenties in this thrilling Silver Screen historical mystery, starring two very different female sleuths.May, 1924. It''s been seven months since young British widow Emma Blackstone arrived in Hollywood to serve as companion to Kitty Flint: her beautiful, silent-movie star sister-in-law. Kitty is generous, kind-hearted . . . and a truly terrible actress. Not that Emma minds; she''s too busy making her academic parents turn in their graves with her new job writing painfully historically inaccurate scenarios for Foremost Studios, in between wrangling their leading lady out of the arms of her army of amorous suitors.So when one of Kitty''s old flames, renowned film director Ernst Zapolya, calls Emma and tells her it''s imperative he meet with Kitty that morning, she''s not surprised. Until, that is, he adds that lives depend on it. Ernst sounds frightened. But what can have scared

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Book SynopsisPRE-ORDER THE BIG EMPTY, THE NEW ROBERT CRAIS NOVEL, COMING JANUARY 2025! ‘Another grand slam for the master storyteller’ DAVID BALDACCI ‘A modern master of crime fiction’ GREGG HURWITZ 'Robert Crais is a legend who deserves his place alongside Chandler, Hammett & Himes as a true master of the crime and mystery genre' STEVE CAVANAGHTHE CITY OF ANGELS Adele Schumacher isn’t a typical worried mum. When she hires Elvis to find her missing son, a controversial podcaster named Josh Shoe, she brings a bag filled with cash, paranoid tales of government conspiracies, and a squad of mysterious bodyguards. Finding Josh should be simple, but Elvis quickly learns he isn’t alone in the hunt – a team of deadly strangers are determined to find Josh first.THE CITY OF LIES With dangerous secrets lurking behind every lead, Elvis n

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Book SynopsisThe second outing in a gritty, fast-paced, stylish detective noir series set in post-war Glasgow, from the Scottish Raymond Chandler

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Book Synopsis''Rosie can write and Prudence Bulstrode is here to stay'' Miriam Margolyes''Witty, warm and so enjoyable'' Jo BrandThe next irresistible cosy crime novel from celebrity TV chef Rosemary Shrager! Preparing a midwinter''s feast for all hundred residents of the little Yorkshire village of Scrafton Busk is exactly the kind of challenge Prudence Bulstrode adores. A chance to show off her muffin-topped winter stew, lamb shank hotpot and Scarborough woof - and, of course, her famous figgy pudding - is just the thing to shake off the winter blues. But on the night of the feast, local vagabond Terry Chandler is found dead - his body entombed in the pristine snowman standing pride of place on the village green. Who could have wanted Chandler dead? Why would they stow his body in such strange circumstances? And what is the meaning of his last enigmatic message, directing his brother to Mystery Hills, a place of which no one has ever heard? Cr

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