Crime and mystery: women sleuths / detectives

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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Book SynopsisWhen Cass Raines, the former Chicago cop turned private investigator, looks into a suspicious death she makes some powerful enemies...Being a PI can be slow work, sitting around in cars on a stakeout, or serving summonses. But once in a while, it leads straight to danger. When Cass hears about the death of Tim Ayers, she agrees to look into the circumstances. A choice she may come to regret. Ayers was from a wealthy Chicago family, and was found dead in Lake Michigan, in the water near his luxury boat. Cass begins digging and is surprised to learn that Tim Ayers was terminally ill. Given the large quantities of alcohol and drugs found in his body, his death appears to be either an accident or suicide. Yet Cass soon realises there are too many unanswered questions and unexplained coincidences. It could be murder. But why would anyone kill a dying man? Cass’s persistence attracts unwanted attention, putting her life in danger and uncovering sinister secrets she may end up taking to her grave.The gripping second instalment of a private investigator crime series, that is perfect for fans of Ian K. Smith, Sue Grafton and the Cormoran Strike novels.Praise for Tracy ClarkRunner 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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Book SynopsisCass Raines knows the streets of Chicago all too well as a cop turned private investigator. A new case gives a glimpse into how the other half lives – and how they die…Wealth. Power. Celebrity. Vonda Allen’s glossy magazine has taken the Windy City by storm, and she’s well on her way to building a one-woman media empire. Everybody adores her. Except the people who work for her. And the person who’s sending her flowers with death threats.Vonda has employed off-duty cop Ben Mickerson as her bodyguard and when he needs some back-up no one fits the bill better than his ex-partner on the police force, Cass Raines. Cass is reluctant to take the job – she isn’t keen on playing babysitter to a celebrity – but agrees to as a favour to Ben.When two of Vonda’s staff turn up dead, Ben and Cass must find the unknown assailant before someone else dies. Then Ben is taken out of action, Cass is left to find out what secrets Vonda is keeping, and who wants her dead. A task made even harder by enemies in the Chicago Police Department determined to stop Cass…An explosive third novel from a thrilling crime novelist, which fans of Ian K. Smith, Sue Grafton and the Cormoran Strike novels will love.Praise for Tracy ClarkRunner 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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Book SynopsisEvil lurks in the city streets.A man is discovered on a leafy North London street, fighting for life after a brutal beating. DI Matthew Denning and his team are quickly called in to track down the monster responsible. Except the victim is hiding secrets of his own. His name shows that he was reported missing two decades ago - but it’s clear that the missing person is not the same man lying broken in a hospital bed.A visit to a squalid East London flat unearths a victim with his throat slit, his body left to decompose. A sad end to any life - but when it is identified as former DCI Frank Buckfield, star of the Met police, the case takes on a new significance.Two seemingly unrelated cases - but as Denning, along with DS Molly Fisher, investigates further, they uncover links between the two victims that lead back to a ring of silence cloaking the blackest of crimes.But as Denning and Fisher try to track down a killer with revenge on their mind, they find themselves pitted against a psychopath who will kill to keep their secrets hidden. Can they uncover the truth, before they end up the latest victims?The latest in the gripping London crime series featuring DI Matthew Denning and DS Molly Fisher, The Darkness Within is a must-read if you like Angela Marsons, L.J. Ross or Joy Ellis.Praise for the Denning and Fisher crime thriller series: ‘This story starts with a bang and holds your attention throughout…fast paced and multi layered, each twist and turn drawing us further in’ Book Bound‘Enough twists to keep you guessing in this solid, engrossing and well plotted police procedural…thoroughly entertaining’ The Bookwormery‘Wow I really enjoyed this book… It is a complex, intriguing, grabbing book that you can sink your teeth into. I was hooked from beginning to end’ Reading Through the Pain‘This is a brilliant read…the story twists and turns to an exciting conclusion and leaves you wanting more’Mac Reviews Books‘5/5 Stars – I did not see that ending coming!...it’s a great thriller with some fun twists that will keep readers on their toes’ ☆☆☆☆☆(e) Book Nerd‘Well-paced, with a few clever twists, I was never quite sure I knew who the killer was. Graeme Hampton’s writing is fabulous.’ Jessica Belmont‘I took to this book very quickly - always a good sign... An excellent plot line with nothing too gory or upsetting which gives a very comfortable read. A truly brilliant, very entertaining read.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Nicki’s Book Blog

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Book Synopsis'BLOODY BRILLIANT. If you like your crime dark and twisty...The Secret Voices is all this and more.' Joanna Cannon, author of A Tidy EndingThey said they’d keep me safe. They said, ‘It’s okay, Hannah. You know you can trust me.’ They lied.When eight-year-old Hannah Perry goes missing in the small Suffolk village of St Just, the community is rocked. Heading up the investigation is Acting DS Rob Minshull, but he’s out of his depth in an investigation full of dead ends. As the kidnapper taunts the police with deliveries of Hannah’s belongings and cryptic notes, her life hangs perilously in danger.Until Dr Cora Lael enters the picture. A psychologist with a unique ability, Cora’s rare gift allows her to sense emotions attached to discarded objects. When she is shown the first of Hannah’s belongings, she hears the child’s piercing scream.With few leads on the case, could Cora prove Hannah’s only hope? And as time runs out, can they find Hannah before an unimaginable tragedy occurs…?A twisty, original and utterly gripping detective thriller. Don’t miss the crime thriller debut from the bestselling women’s fiction author, Miranda Dickinson.Praise for The Secret Voices:‘A superb crime debut from a massive talent. Cora is a character you won’t forget.’ Steve Cavanagh, author of Fifty-Fifty‘Had me gripped from the moment I started reading it! One of the best thrillers of 2022.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A corker of a debut with a brilliantly drawn main character.’ Simon Toyne, author of Solomon Creed‘An unusual premise and an engaging cast of characters. What more could you want from a crime debut? I flew through it.’ Mari Hannah, author of Her Last Request and Without a Trace‘Gripping, full of twists and unpredictability that had me guessing until the end. I couldn’t put it down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘I was well and truly hooked…The writing was well researched, the storyline gripping, and the characters were spot on!…This was fantastic! Would definitely recommend!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘This was excellent… There were many twists and I loved the plot development…I will pick up anything by this author in the future!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Wow! What a fantastic story…I read it in a day, just couldn’t put it down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Suspense, intrigue, great police work and a great storyline! It definitely had my heart pumping!’ Reader Review‘Truly could not put this down… so many twists and turns… Great characters which are also believable’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Touchingly compassionate, desperately exciting and achingly well-written…a superlative crime novel’ Rob Parker, author of Far From The Tree‘I love a good police procedural and this one is an impossible-to-put-down one! With a cast of really interesting characters…it moves at a perfect pace.’ Fionnuala Kearney, author of You, Me and Other People and The Book of Love

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Book Synopsis'So chillingly addictive you'll forget to breathe' CHRIS WHITAKER, author of WE BEGIN AT THE END THEY BELIEVE HIS LIES. SHE KNOWS THE TRUTH. You can't lie to Izzy Lambert. Her highly developed empathic abilities allow her to read people's emotions with terrifying accuracy - and consequences. As a child her insights sparked her parents' divorce. As an adult she avoids getting too close to people for fear of what she might learn. But now young girls are going missing in her town. The police have no suspects but, seeing her old school caretaker interviewed on the news about the story, Izzy comes to a chilling realisation: he knows where the missing girls are. When the police won't take her seriously despite the lives at stake, she will risk everything to uncover the truth. Perfect for fans of Steve Cavanagh, Adrian McKinty and Harlan Coben, NO SECRETS will keep you turning the pages until the very last line. 'Hitchcockian suspense' FINANCIAL TIMES 'Intriguing, absorbing, with a great twist that I genuinely didn't see coming' MANDASUE HELLER 'A proper page turner, dark, thrilling, twisty and full of surprises' NADINE MATHESON 'David Jackson is the master of the unputdownable thriller' MICHAEL WOODTrade ReviewHitchcockian suspense * Financial Times *So chillingly addictive you'll forget to breathe... Cold and clever, yet brimming with heart, humour and ingenious twists -- Chris Whitaker, author of WE BEGIN AT THE ENDAn exhilarating ride with a serial killer and the empath on his tail. Funny, shocking, brilliantly written - and I swear there's a twist on every page! -- Janice Hallett, author of THE TWYFORD CODEIntriguing, absorbing, with a great twist that I genuinely didn't see coming -- Mandasue HellerAn original and gripping page-turner. David Jackson is the master of the unputdownable thriller -- Michael WoodFabulous. David Jackson is officially King of Just One More Chapter. Beautifully dark and twisty -- Joanna Cannon, author of A TIDY ENDINGAn original and gripping page-turner. David Jackson is the master of the unputdownable thriller -- Michael Wood, author of the DCI Matilda Darke seriesA proper page turner, dark, thrilling, twisty and full of surprises -- Nadine Matheson, author of THE JIGSAW MANDefinitely on the list for Book of the Year. Absolutely gripping -- David MarkTruly is a thrilling read. Murder, deadly secrets and a complex main character who you keep turning the pages for, I thoroughly enjoyed it -- Deborah Masson, author of the DI EVE HUNTER series

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Book SynopsisBrooklyn's toughest female detective takes on Dallas in this 'violent, sexy, and completely absorbing' Edgar Award nominee, the first novel in the acclaimed Betty Rhyzyk series (Kirkus Reviews). Dallas, Texas is not for the faint of heart. Good thing for Betty Rhyzyk she's from a family of take-no-prisoners Brooklyn police detectives. But her Big Apple wisdom will only get her so far when she relocates to The Big D, where Mexican drug cartels and cult leaders, deadbeat skells and society wives all battle for sunbaked turf. Betty is as tough as the best of them, but she's deeply shaken when her first investigation goes sideways. Battling a group of unruly subordinates, a persistent stalker, a formidable criminal organisation, and an unsupportive girlfriend, the unbreakable Detective Betty Rhyzyk may be reaching her limit. Combining the colourful pyrotechnics of Breaking Bad with the best of the gritty crime genre, The Dime is Kathleen Kent's brilliant mystery debut and the launch of a sensational new series. Praise for Kathleen Kent: 'Only a fan blowing in the right direction could flip the pages of this lightning-paced tale any faster' Minneapolis Star Tribune 'One of the most breathless, inventive and – be forewarned – violent suspense plots I've read in a long time' NPR 'Exciting [and] moving... Grisly but likable' Wall Street Journal 'Some of the most intense crime fiction I've ever read' LitReactor 'Kent's offbeat humor pulls up reins just before it takes the story over a cliff' New York Times Book ReviewTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR KATHLEEN KENT: 'One of the most breathless, inventive, and be forewarned, violent suspense plots I've read in a long time' NPR. 'Exciting [and] moving... Grisly but likeable' Wall Street Journal. 'Some of the most intense crime fiction I've ever read' LitReactor. 'Terrific... Kent's own ability to avoid predictable outcomes and keep the reader on edge bodes well for future installments in this series' Chicago Tribune. 'Kent is an effective storyteller and an acute social observer, with a sharp eye for Texas-sized absurdities' Los Angeles Review of Books. 'The plot revolves around the Asian sex- and drug-trafficking trade run by the cutest little old lady you ever did see, but the broader appeal is Kent's offbeat humor, which pulls up reins just before it takes the story over a cliff' * New York Times Book Review *

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Book SynopsisShe says he's a victim. They say he's a killer. When an armed man massacres several people in central London, Claudine witnesses the whole thing. To her horror, one of the victims is her brother, Jethro. Riven by grief, Claudine retreats to the family home in the Fens, which is where the police find her. She is left reeling when they tell her Jethro orchestrated the attack. Why would a gentle, if troubled, middle-aged man cause such bloodshed – and why would he include himself in the list of victims? The truth could lie in Jethro’s research on a mediaeval cult. If Claudine can’t solve the mystery in time, more people will die... and the darkness will claim her too. This twisty, unrelenting thriller is perfect for fans of Ruth Ware, Emma Kavanagh, and Sharon Bolton, using themes of grief to explore how people are never as straightforward as they seem. 'Intelligent crime fiction at its very best, cleverly plotted with a scorching climax.' Caro Ramsay 'Staggeringly good.' Sharon Bolton Reviews for D.L. Mark: 'Mark is an extraordinary talent – one of the best in the business. I adore how he writes.' M.W. Craven 'Dark and compelling with characters you will never forget.' Elly Griffiths 'Mark is a wonderfully descriptive writer.' Peter James 'Mark’s books are always taut, intelligent page-turners.' Abir MukherjeeTrade Review'A beautiful yet terrifying opening leads quickly to a wonderfully observed and strikingly original crime novel. DL Mark is staggeringly good.' -- Sharon BoltonGrim, gruesome and absolutely gripping * SHOTS Magazine *An original and simply riveting read... with the kind of narrative driven and distinctively memorable storytelling style that will hold full attention from first page to last * Midwest Book Review *‘D.L. Mark writes with a dark compassion, his great skill is interweaving this seamlessly into a compelling, twisting narrative.’ -- Tim Sullivan'Just brilliant. What I love most about D.L. Mark's writing is that it's constantly surprising - he's never succumbed to lazy or formulaic writing but each new book feels fresh and exciting as a debut, as if he's constantly striving to write better and bolder things - which of course he is. And that's why I'll always feel able to recommend him as one to watch.' -- Elizabeth HayesPRAISE FOR D.L. MARK: 'Mark is a wonderfully descriptive writer' Peter James. 'Brilliantly written – a cracking story' Richard Madeley, Richard & Judy Book Club (on Dark Winter). 'Dark, compelling crime writing of the highest order' Daily Mail (on Darkness Falls). 'Beautifully crafted' Kirkus. 'Mark's books are always taut, intelligent page-turners' -- Abir Mukherjee

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Book SynopsisDISCOVER THE GRIPPING 2024 BRITISH CRIME NOVEL EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT:'A remarkable debut. It is funny, creepy, gory and moving.' THE TIMES 'Utterly mesmerising' - PETER JAMES'A crime novel I wish I had written' - LYNDA LA PLANTE'Marie's writing is beautiful' - BELINDA BAUER'Exceptional in every way' - CHRIS WHITAKER 'A dark glittering gem of a book' - LISA GRAY'Gloriously dark, deadly and deathly' - C. J. SKUSE'An incredible debut. Damn near perfect' - SUSI HOLLIDAY'Tierney is a name to watch' - SAM HOLLAND'A masterpiece' - WILLIAM HUSSEYThirteen-year-old Ava Bonney possesses an unusual intellect far beyond her years. While her friends play, Ava's fascination lies in the intricate process of animal decomposition, studying roadkill found in the streets around her home.But, one night, Ava's secret nocturnal routine takes a chilling turn when she stumbles upon the lifeless body of fellow schoolmate, Mickey Grant.As Detective Seth Delahaye takes charge of the perplexing case, Ava refuses to sit idle. Determined and resourceful, she embarks on a daring quest to unveil the truth behind the string of chilling deaths plaguing her community. Armed with her unique skills and unrivalled local knowledge, Ava becomes an unlikely force in the race to apprehend the elusive killer before more lives are claimed.'Deadly Animals is a shockingly beautiful, rare and heartbreaking gem. I really can't recommend it highly enough' - CHRIS WHITAKERTrade ReviewA crime novel I wish I had written * LYNDA LA PLANTE *Utterly mesmerising . . . This writer has huge talent * PETER JAMES *Marie's writing is beautiful * BELINDA BAUER *Exceptional in every way, Deadly Animals is a shockingly beautiful, rare and heartbreaking gem. A story both harrowing and exquisitely told. I really can't recommend it highly enough. * CHRIS WHITAKER *An incredible debut - original, epically dark and with such a strong voice. Damn near perfect. * SUSI HOLLIDAY *With writing as sharp as a canine's claw and an unforgettable protagonist, this is a dark glittering gem of a book * LISA GRAY *Gloriously dark, deadly and deathly . . . Gobbled it up - and it was absolutely delicious * C. J. SKUSE *A masterpiece. Bold, daring, beautifully written and utterly chilling. * WILLIAM HUSSEY, author of KILLING JERICHO *Feisty Ava and her sidekick John are just the heroes we need as they track down a serial killer in eighties Birmingham. Original, and as fascinating as it is macabre, Tierney is a name to watch. * SAM HOLLAND, author of The Echo Man *A remarkable debut. It is funny, creepy, gory and moving * The Times *

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Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING THRILLER FROM 10 MILLION COPY AUTHOR REMIGIUSZ MRÓZ - NOW A HBO MAX TV SERIES'First it was Stieg Larsson, then Jo Nesbø, and now it's time for another sensational crime author to enter our shores' - TESS GERRITSENWhen whip-smart criminal defence lawyer Joanna Chylka is tasked with defending the son of her law firm's biggest client, she is stumped for the first time in her career. Her client, Piotr Langer Jr, is charged with murder, and he is refusing to speak.Assisted by the firm's newest trainee, Kordian Orynski, Joanna finds a maze of tangled evidence. Piotr is alleged to have sat in his apartment for ten days with two corpses before calmly opening the door to the police as if nothing had happened. But the truth is far more complex and shocking than they could have imagined. Joanna and Kordian find themselves facing a treacherous situation. And with the spotlight on them, a killer may have them both on his hit list.Praise for Remigiusz Mróz:'A world-class author' - B.A. Paris'A master storyteller' - JP DelaneyTrade ReviewFirst it was Stieg Larsson, then Jo Nesbø, and now it's time for another sensational crime author to invade our shores. Mróz introduces a hot new wave of thrillers from Poland. * TESS GERRITSEN *A world-class author * B.A. PARIS *A master storyteller * JP DELANEY *

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Book SynopsisThe brand new psychological thriller from the bestselling author of The Bridesmaid and The Daughter in Law.It should have been the perfect weekend…Work colleagues Nicole, Margo, Paisley and Audrey all appear to be looking forward to a weekend away at Nicole’s luxurious beach house on the Dorset coast. It should be a chance for the women to kick back, relax and regroup after a stressful moment at work.But this is no normal girls’ getaway. And the beach house is no normal home. This place holds dark secrets for Nicole, which threaten to be revealed when its doors are opened.And unbeknownst to host Nicole, each of the three other guests all have secrets of their own…and some of them could be deadly.Praise for Nina Manning:'Heart-stopping, pacy and tension filled. Highly recommended.' Claire Allan, USA Today Bestseller'Compelling and claustrophobic, Nina is an exciting new voice and definitely one to watch' Phoebe Morgan, author of The Babysitter'Chilling and creepy. An atmospheric and addictive debut.' Diane Jeffrey, author of The Guilty Mother'Totally addictive. I couldn't put it down!' Darren O'Sullivan, author of Closer Than You Think'A claustrophobic, nail-biting thriller that draws you in and doesn't let go.' Naomi Joy, author of The Liars‘Clever, emotionally draining and totally gripping. I absolutely loved this book!’ D E White, author of The Forgotten Child

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Book SynopsisSecrets can be fatal. But so can the truth.When the murdered body of Lauren Shaw is discovered laid out on the altar of St Mary the Virgin church in Eastbourne it sends a chill to the core of those who have lived in the area for a long time. They remember another woman, also young and pretty, whose slain corpse was placed in the same spot 60 years ago.Dee Doran is as intrigued as the rest but focused on her investigation of the whereabouts of a missing person from the Polish community. The police weren’t interested but Dee’s journalistic instincts tell her something is amiss.But as she starts asking questions Dee finds the answers all point to the same conclusion - someone is keeping secrets and they will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.A chilling and gripping crime thriller that fans of Fiona Barton and Alex Marwood will love.What readers are saying about When the Dead Speak ‘Sheila Bugler presents a straight-forward plot that is highly intriguing & full of well-rounded characters, sprinkled with several red herrings & lots of clever twists & turns. Reminiscent of Agatha Christie at her innovative peak, this is the best crime novel I’ve read in 2020.’ NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘This was an amazing book. I loved how it unravelled from Emma’s diary pages, and the investigating of the murders… I was on the edge of my seat.’ NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I finished reading this at 2am because I couldn’t put it down. Anyone who likes a good crime story will absolutely love this.’ NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Brilliant, the storyline and characters just kept me wanting to read page after page…’ NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I need the next book in the series now!!’ NetGalley review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisWelcome to Eldey, an island with deadly secrets.Mona: a carefree artist, staying at the Cloister to work on her illustrations.Beth: the harried mother of a toddler, on the remote Welsh island for a weekend with her family.Charlotte: a reluctant stepmother who wanted a romantic getaway with her husband.One of them is a serial killer who poisoned four of her friends at her eleventh birthday party.They all fit the profile. Who will risk everything to kill again?An absolutely gripping Welsh crime novel, perfect for fans of Sarah Pearse and Lucy Foley.Praise for The Birthday Girl ‘A brilliant Christie-esque page-turner with an amazing sense of location’ Catherine Cooper, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Chalet‘Atmospheric, tense, with lots of twists and turns, I couldn’t put this down. With a nod to Agatha Christie, the sharp narrative builds to a nail-biting climax.’ Simon McCleave, author of The Dark Tide‘A pitch-perfect start to a new thriller series’ Michael Wood, author of Silent Victim ‘There is more than a whiff of Agatha Christie here, which made The Birthday Girl so satisfyingly compelling that I read into the small hours to finish it’ Alis Hawkins, author of A Bitter Remedy‘Suspense and intrigue abound in this gripping, claustrophobic murder mystery set on a sinister Welsh island’ Roz Watkins, author of The Devil’s Dice'Takes the classic Christie-esque trope of a remote location and a closed circle of suspects and reinvents it for the 21st Century, weaving a tale of murder, madness, and revenge. I absolutely loved it.' Amanda Mason, author of The Hiding Place‘Sharp, elegantly written, and dripping with suspense. A wonderfully crafted ‘closed room’ mystery that had me turning the pages at record speed.’ J. A. Corrigan, author of The Nurse‘Cleverly plotted, full of twists and intrigue, with an ending that is both dramatic and satisfying’ Jane Bettany, author of In Cold Blood‘A taut, intelligent thriller, elegantly written with an eerie atmosphere and an addictive plot. I utterly love this sharp, clever new series!’ Victoria Dowd, author of A Book of Murder‘The Birthday Girl is a satisfying contemporary page-turner with more than a whiff of Christie’s Golden Age locked-room mysteries about it. Compelling reading!’ Marnie Riches, author of All The Pretty Ones‘A masterpiece of gothic, atmospheric, Agatha Christie-like mystery. If you love a good locked room style murder mystery, want a book that could keep you up all night guessing, or just want an absolutely thrilling read, The Birthday Girl is for you!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘This thriller was absolutely amazing. It was gripping, full of suspense and this was perfect for grabbing you and not letting you go. Two days later and I still can't stop thinking about this!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘This has truly been one of my favorite reads of all time. I truly was guessing until the end. This book will stay with me forever.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Absolutely loved this. It kept me guessing throughout and I could not put it down. Fantastic read.’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Compelling, Claustrophobic. Perfectly set up in true Christiesque fashion, this immersive suspense is packed with a deftly drawn cast and a plot populated with red herrings galore.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘I was hooked on this, so much so that I got up at two a.m. and read until four. I loved it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Gripping, dark, atmospheric and thrilling... The best novel I have read this year.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

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Book SynopsisDeadly truths lie buried beneath the snow.Three people are stranded at a pub on a winter's night – a couple, the Fairweathers, and a woman, Alison Evans. Hours later, in the middle of the night, the pub alarm begins to sound and Alison Evans is missing. Within moments, her body is discovered outside.The following day a young boy disappears while sledding with his grandfather.The two cases couldn't be more different, but as the two investigations unfold and the window for finding Lucas Pritchard narrows, the job becomes personal for one of DI Annie Delamere's team. With links between the cases that seem to make no sense, can they find their answers before time runs out?A tense and gripping crime thriller set in the Peak District, perfect for fans of Stephen Booth and Roz Watkins.Praise for Old Evils ‘Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. Full of plot twists and surprises.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘An excellent read. The characterisation is believable, it’s well written with plenty of tension and a few twists rattling along at a fast pace. I highly recommend this series.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Lots of action and twists and turns. It’s a difficult book to put down, highly recommended.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

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Book SynopsisSidra Hussain has just made it home after a date. Opening the door, her blood runs cold as she realises the caller is here to take her life...When a young Asian woman is found brutally murdered in her North London home, DS Mumtaz ‘Moomy’ Ali begins the investigation, but is blindsided by a case with no obvious motive.When a second female victim is found, with no obvious links to Sidra apart from also having her throat slit, it seems Moomy is up against every detective’s nightmare… a serial killer bringing terror to the streets of London.As the case deepens, Moomy and her detective partner Sarah Heaton uncover a sinister underground group brought together by their hatred of women. But their roots run deep, and they count some very powerful people in their number.To stop the bloodshed, Moomy must delve into the darkest corners of the internet, a place where hatred festers, unchecked – but she needs to be fast, because the killer has their sights set on her…A hard-hitting, ripped-from-the-headlines detective novel with a shocking twist - fans of Angela Marsons, Cara Hunter and Ajay Chowdhury won't be able to put this down.Praise for the DS Mumtaz Ali crime thriller series:'The pace is swift from the beginning and doesn't let up once.' Joy Kluver‘It was nothing short of brilliant. I read the entire book with bated breath… I freaking loved the book!!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘The twists in this book are so jaw-dropping, I can’t even put into words how awesome they were…tension and suspense is ramped up right from the beginning.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘An absolutely gripping, engaging, engrossing read, I could not put this down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Original, and well written. An excellent addition to the genre’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Wonderful well-written plot and storyline that had me engaged from the start.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Besides being a solid British police procedural, I appreciated the diverse, multiracial cast of characters in the story’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A brilliant police thriller…I loved this exciting rollercoaster!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘The red herrings and cliffhangers at the end of chapters meant I couldn’t put the book down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A riveting read that had me clinging onto every word.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘An intriguing story of wealth, hypocrisy, racism, love andbetrayal. So many twists and turns! You’re kept guessing to the very end!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'A great thriller novel...It left me wanting to read more.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'An engrossing read...This is hard hitting, fast paced and well written.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

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Book SynopsisIt’s going to be a summer she’ll never forget.Claire’s little sister Holly has been working on the millionaire’s playground of Martha’s Vineyard, going to barefoot beach parties and flirting with the local rich kids. But now she’s missing and none of the locals seem to care, including the police. They think a message Claire received is proof she’s safe.But Claire knows for a fact that her sister didn’t send it.What will she have to risk to find out the truth? Who are the locals protecting? And what does it have to do with another girl who went missing five years ago?An unputdownable psychological thriller summer read from the #1 bestselling author, for fans of Heidi Perks, Claire Douglas and Lucy Clarke.Praise for Jenny Blackhurst‘Fast-moving and laced with suspense, it buzzes from first page to last’ Daily Mail‘Electrifying’ Woman’s Own‘Fabulously tense’ Prima‘Addictive stuff’ Woman & Home‘An addictive thriller’ Good Housekeeping‘A thoroughly twisty treat’ Heat‘The duel timeline and clever narratives really hook you into this tense and atmospheric thriller’ My Weekly‘Utterly gripping’ Clare Mackintosh‘Jenny is an evil genius’ Lisa Hall‘Hooked from the first page’ Claire Douglas‘This talented writer knows a thing or two about her craft’ Amanda Jennings‘Compelling, disturbing and thoroughly enjoyable’ Sharon Bolton‘An outstanding and original thriller’ B. A. Paris‘Gripping and hugely enjoyable’ Jane Casey‘Had me hooked from the very first line. Tense, dark and highly compelling’ B. P Walter‘A dark, clever, and twisty read... I devoured it’ A. A. Chaudhuri‘A twisting tale... I was gripped until the final page’ Sophie FlynnWhat readers are saying about The Summer Girl ‘From start to finish I was completely immersed in this storyline.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Woah, has it been a long time since I’ve read a thriller and been so genuinely shocked by the twist! Overall, a great and easy summer suspense to add to your TBR!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Easily one of the best books I’ve read in quite some time. A must read.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘What a wild ride Blackhurst took me on! She wove everything together at the end so well, it left my heart pounding.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘A great summer read. The sense of place is amazing. I could taste the sea air and feel the sun on my back.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘A gripping and unpredictable thriller. With its well-drawn characters, richly evocative atmosphere, and complex exploration of themes of identity and trauma, it’s a must-read for fans of the genre.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Unforgettable twists. Jenny Blackhurst’s gripping tale entices readers into a web of secrets, deceit, and the lengths one sister is willing to go to find her missing sibling.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Great characters. Witty. A hugely satisfying conclusion. The Summer Girl, for me, is Jenny Blackhurst at her absolute best.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

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Book SynopsisThey can buy everything except the truth.Each week, they come to lie on her couch. Carrie, Henry and Grace. They don’t know one another, but Dr Alex knows them all too well. She listens as they reveal their dirtiest little secrets.Then a murderer strikes in their elite neighbourhood. Could her clients hold the answers? As a psychologist, she knows that anyone can be a killer if they’re pushed hard enough.But only some can get away with it.A twist-a-minute standalone thriller with a massive dose of guilty pleasure, from the million copy bestseller Rachel Lynch. Perfect for fans of Adele Parks, Catherine Cooper and Chris Brookmyre.Praise for The Rich ‘A fast-paced, twisty piece of escapism’ Heat‘This compelling thriller is one of the best I’ve read’ Sun‘Such a teriffic read... I could read a series’ Daily Mail‘A refreshingly intriguing thriller that will leave you guessing’ Woman's Weekly‘Smart, satisfying – a superb book. I loved this story of excess and narcissism’ Sam Holland, author of The Echo Man‘Punchy and powerful, Rachel Lynch’s writing gripped me from the very first page. Utterly compulsive reading’ Marion Todd, author of A Blind Eye‘Bold. Brutal. Brilliant.’ J. M. Hewitt, author of The Life She Wants‘Brilliantly observed, full of sharp insights about modern life. A gripping read that will have you racing through the pages to the final, shocking twist’ Sheila Bugler, author of Black Valley Farm‘Deliciously dark and utterly compelling. An absolute must-read for all psychological thriller lovers!’ A. A. Chaudhuri, author of The Final Party‘I tore through this! A slick and fresh voice in the psychological thriller genre’ Sophie Flynn, author of If They Knew‘A fabulous thriller. Lynch takes us on a wild ride, packed with twists and bursting with indulgence. The Rich will keep you guessing to the final pages’ Heather Critchlow, author of Unsolved‘A brilliantly plotted and breathlessly written thriller. It’s raw, sexy and chilling. A fantastic read’ Ian Moore, author of Death and Croissants‘Cleverly written with an intriguing premise, I was hooked from the start Sarah Ward, author of The Birthday Girl‘An expertly plotted psychological thriller oozing with decadence. Pacy and poised, it’s hard to look away from the pages… a pleasure to read’ Morgan Greene, author of Black Heart‘This is one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve read in a long time. So many twists and turns and the characters were well written. I loved every minute of reading it!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘A thrilling rollercoaster of a novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Lynch takes you on a wild ride, weaving a complex web of intrigue, secrets, and unexpected twists that will leave you breathless. A must-read.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘The plot is super fast, full of twists and turns. The ending came as a complete shock to me, I never saw it coming. I will be recommending this book.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

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Book SynopsisOne killer can hide in a city of millionsWhen a homeless man is found dead in an abandoned tube station, DI Denning and DS Fisher are shocked to find out he has been stabbed. Who would want to kill a homeless man? And why?As they uncover his identity as a man involved in a serious fraud case several years ago, it leads to even more questions. Why are the victim's family so reluctant to help them solve the case? Who else is involved? Faced with a wall of silence, the squad finds only one man willing to share what he saw of the murder. But when he too is found dead, it's clear that someone will take brutal lengths to hide their secrets.Driven by his conviction that the dead man is owed justice and finding that some very dangerous individuals are tied up with the case, Denning won't rest until he solves the crime - but can he find the killer before he kills again?Meanwhile, Molly realises she is being stalked. Could this somehow be connected to the case, or is there someone in her personal life who wishes her harm?Join DI Denning and DS Fisher for another unputdownable London crime thriller, for fans of Stuart MacBride and Cara Hunter.Readers are hooked on Truth Lies Dying:‘Great writing and premise. Amazing characters...Plenty of suspense to keep me guessing.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Hits the mark and is a gripping, unputdownable crime thriller…A very good read and suspenseful story.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘The plotting is excellent, it's fast paced with plenty of suspense…enough twists to keep the reader interested until the end.’ Reader Review‘A great whodunnit, great plot twist, and some crazy twists and turns!’ Reader Review‘A really good police procedural. It had a gripping story and I enjoyed how the story unfolded.’ Reader Review‘Wow, what a book…I could not put it down. Would definitely recommend to others.’ Reader ReviewReaders can't get enough of the Denning and Fisher series:‘fast paced and utterly gripping, with plenty to keep you guessing from start to finish. Thoroughly entertaining.’ The Bookwormery‘Well-paced, with a few clever twists, I was never quite sure I knew who the killer was. Graeme Hampton’s writing is fabulous.’ Jessica Belmont‘This story starts with a bang and holds your attention throughout… fast paced and multi layered, each twist and turn drawing us further in’ Book Bound‘Wow I really enjoyed this book… It is a complex, intriguing, grabbing book that you can sink your teeth into. I was hooked from beginning to end’ Reading Through the Pain

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Book SynopsisCassie Dewell returns in this thrilling new read from the series that inspired the hit TV show Big Sky, from New York Times bestselling author C.J. Box. Investigator Cassie Dewell is headed to Anaconda, Montana, in search of a slippery con-man who has disappeared somewhere in the Treasure State. A wealthy California divorcee has accused him of absconding with her entire fortune, and wants Cassie to find him and get it back. Anaconda, a quirky former copper mining town, is the perfect place to reinvent yourself, and as the case develops, Cassie begins to wonder if her client is telling her the truth. Between searching for the con-man and investigating rumours of buried treasure somewhere in the vicinity of the town, Cassie has her hands full. For fans of Big Sky and Yellowstone, Treasure State is full of more twists and turns than the switchbacks through the Anaconda Range. 'The perfect book to crown your summer reading list.' BookTrib 'An action-packed page turner.' New York Journal of Books 'Box has crafted a complex and compelling double mystery that treats readers to a thrilling read.' Durango Herald Reviewers on the Cassie Dewell books 'Excellent... Box has rarely been better.' Publishers Weekly 'Cassie Dewell is a complex and multi-faceted protagonist.' Book Reporter 'Joe Pickett may be Box's main man, but Cassie is equally compelling.' BooklistTrade ReviewPage-turning suspense * Book Munch *REVIEWS FOR C.J. BOX 'Game warden Joe Pickett may be Box's main man, but Cassie is equally compelling... Box has become the dominant mystery/thriller author of the mountain West – and deservedly so.' Booklist 'Box's characters are well developed, his writing is vivid, the tension runs high, and the plot unfolds at a rapid pace.' Associated Press 'C.J. Box is the crime fiction bard of American's northern plain states.' Toronto Star 'C.J. Box has never lacked in talent for writing rugged frontier-type heroes, like Joe Pickett and Nate Romanowski, who've helped define the post-modern Western. His Cassie Dewell character is all that and more.' Providence Journal 'Cassie Dewell is a complex and multi-faceted protagonist who is one of the more interesting characters to emerge from the thriller genre over the past couple of years.' Book Reporter

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Book SynopsisThe Edgar Award-winning, New York Times-bestselling series by Dana Stabenow set in Alaska. In A Cold Blooded Business, Kate Shugak investigates a drugs ring at an oil company – at great personal risk... Prudhoe Bay, Alaska: population 2,000. Approximate number of families: zero. And America's largest oilfield... In three months, the Prudhoe Bay oil operation has logged half a dozen drug overdoses, and one death: a man found floating face down in the company pool wearing full flight gear. Now the Alaskan Royal Petroleum Company is in need of a discreet investigator on the inside. Someone who can navigate a flat-bed truck against Arctic wind at forty degrees below freezing and find out who is running a narcotic ring from within the company. Sounds like a job for Kate Shugak... 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 SynopsisThe Edgar Award-winning, New York Times-bestselling series by Dana Stabenow set in Alaska. Kate Shugak investigates into a mysterious death in a dysfunctional family in Play With Fire. Alaska's worst fire in decades left behind 125,000 acres of razed forest, three feet of ash... and one unburnt corpse. A ten-year-old boy has hired Kate Shugak to find his father. Daniel Seabolt has been missing since the summer, but his disappearance has never been reported. The boy's grandfather, the Right Reverend Pastor Simon Seabolt, has forbidden the tight-knit community even to speak Daniel's name. Unfortunately for the boy, Kate is already investigating the body of a man found buried under the ash of last year's forest fire. At first she thinks this man was caught out in the blaze, but the coroner returns cause of death as anaphylactic shock. And although the body is missing clothes and shoes, it is untouched by the fire... 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 SynopsisThe Edgar Award-winning, New York Times-bestselling series by Dana Stabenow set in Alaska. Kate Shugak's family becomes involved in a murder investigation in Blood Will Tell. Fifty thousand square miles of untouched Alaskan forest is definitely a prize... but is it worth killing for? Ekaterina Moonin Shugak, tribal elder and community leader, is a fierce friend and an even fiercer foe. So when she arrives unannounced at Kate Shugak's homestead asking for her granddaughter's help, Kate knows there must be something seriously amiss in town. And her suspicions are confirmed when she arrives in town to find that two people are dead. It could be a coincidence, but Kate Shugak doesn't like coincidences; especially where family are concerned. 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'A brilliant story from a masterful storyteller.' Anita WallerOne chance meeting. A night that changes everything.The Kennedy sisters, Molly, Alex and Sam, have a Christmas tradition – a night out, just the three of them, sisters together.Lewis Stone can’t face the work Christmas party, but as he’s one of the bosses, he has to put in an appearance. He leaves as soon as he can politely get away, ready for the holidays to begin.When Lewis Stone meets the Kennedy sisters, a train of events begins that engulfs them all.One sister is left fighting for her life.One sister is left fighting for her marriage.And one sister is hellbent on revenge…The brilliant new psychological thriller from bestseller O.J. Mullen. Perfect for fans of T. M. Logan, B.A. Paris, Sue Watson and K.L. Slater.'A superb rollercoaster of a read. Gripping to the very last page!' J.A. Baker‘A gripping story with a totally unexpected ending. Loved it.’ Valerie KeoghWhat readers are saying about O.J. Mullen:‘Be warned. From the minute you start reading this book your time will not be your own. It is a brilliant book that reels you in from the start. The characters are so well portrayed that they feel real. - that you would recognise them if they passed you in the street. The plot is wicked, intricate and completely believable. What more could you ask from a book?’‘What I really love about Owen’s writing is it’s perfect.. utterly engrossing, dark and gritty. It’s the tone…I don’t know how he does it but the style of writing is exactly what I want to see.. it’s the grittiness.. the realness.. the depth to the characters.. utter WOW!’‘An absolute first class book. Yet again this talented author delivers a gripping rollercoaster of a read.’‘Thrills, suspense, and drama are the order of the day and you won't be able to tear yourself away from it.’

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Book Synopsis A supernatural tour-de-force' Daily Mail'Haunting and atmospheric' A.J. Gnuse, author of Girl in the Walls'The perfect modern ghost story' Katie Lowe, author of The Furies Some secrets can never be concealed . . .Nell Galilee, her husband and twelve year old step-daughter Maude rent a holiday cottage by the sea, needing time and space away from home. Nell grew up in this small, wind-blown town and has mixed feelings about returning, and it isn't long before she is recognised by a neighbour, seemingly desperate to befriend her. The cottage has been empty for some time, and from the start Nell feels uncomfortable there. Something isn't quite right about this place . . .Maude, furious about being brought here against her will, soon finds herself beguiled by the house's strange atmosphere. There are peculiar marks in the roof beams above her bedroom, and in another room, a hiding place, concealing a strange, unnerving object.As the house gradually reveals its secrets, Nell becomes increasingly uneasy - and Maude spellbound. But these women - and the women that surround them - are harbouring their own secrets too, and soon events will come to a terrible head . . .A brilliant, unsettling and chilling ghost story of mothers and daughters, truth and deception that asks how far you would go, to get what you truly desire . . . Everyone is talking about The Hiding Place...'There's nothing like a haunted house to get the heart racing and this deliciously dark contemporary gothic tale set in Whitby will do just that. Hugely atmospheric, the writer builds the tension gradually - unsettling and creepy, it's a perfect supernatural read for Halloween' My Weekly'Satisfyingly unsettling, this is a hugely atmospheric novel that oozes with uncanny menace' Lucie McKnight Hardy'Tense, atmospheric and suffused with the peculiar longing of motherhood' Araminta Hall'Full of intrigue . . . sure to leave readers unsettled' Anita Frank, author of The Lost OnesTrade ReviewAn unsettling, supernatural tour de force ... with a back story steeped in local history and plot teeming with everyday anxieties, Amanda Mason has created a new gothic myth. Home for a family party, Nell decides it's time for a proper holiday with new hubby and step-daughter Maude. But the house they rent is, well, unwelcoming, with marks carved on ancient beams, ghostly footsteps, drifting smells and sinister secrets buried behind panels. As poison from the past seeps into the fractures within Nell's new family, personal histories and past horrors entwine to trap the reader in a claustrophobic, terrifying embrace. * Daily Mail *There's nothing like a haunted house to get the heart racing and this deliciously dark contemporary gothic tale set in Whitby will do just that. This gothic tale about mothers and daughters explores the lengths people will go to, to obtain power and control. Hugely atmospheric the writer builds the tension gradually - unsettling and creepy, it's a perfect supernatural read for Halloween. * My Weekly *A masterful, unnerving thriller. * Woman's Own *Haunting and atmospheric, The Hiding Place lingers in the dark spaces of a home as Amanda Mason deftly crafts a steady, creeping tension. As the Elder House's secrets are revealed, Mason shines a brilliant light on the unsettling extents of desire. * A.J. Gnuse, author of The Girl in the Walls *The Hiding Place has everything; chills that build, an immersive setting and a wonderful clash between the present and the past, the living and the dead. At the heart of this haunting novel are characters so real and compelling their stories continue to resonate long after reading. * Jess Kidd *Full of intrigue, with hidden agendas, lingering resentments & thwarted desires, this sinister tale is dripping with an insidious malice that is sure to leave readers unsettled. * Anita Frank, author of The Lost Ones *Satisfyingly unsettling, this is a hugely atmospheric novel that oozes with uncanny menace. * Lucie McKnight Hardy *A really convincing ghost story. Elder House, like Shirley Jackson's Hill House, evoked a chilling and eerie sense of past mystery and unhappiness. I was completely pulled along by the narrative and read it in a fevered rush. * Zoe Somerville, author of The Night of the Flood *Tense, atmospheric and suffused with the peculiar longing of motherhood. * Araminta Hall *The Hiding Place is the perfect modern ghost story--evocative, unsettling and genuinely spine-tingling. With vividly realised characters and a chilling mystery at its heart, I truly couldn't put it down--and the atmospheric, immersive world Amanda Mason has created stayed with me long after I'd turned the final page. * Katie Lowe, author of The Furies *A gripping and readable novel, full of subtle characterisation, an acute sense of atmosphere and place, and narrative tension. The Hiding Place is an accomplished modern-gothic haunted-house story, elevated by its exploration of the threads which link mothers and daughters (and step-daughters), the secrets they share (and also hide from each other), and women's wishes and desires, and what they will do to achieve them. * The Countryman *The Hiding Place is a tense, creepy novel that vibrates with mystery. A page-turning, spine-tingling horror story perfect for a windy night. * Inga Vesper, author of The Long, Long Afternoon *With echoes of The Enfield Haunting, a sustained sense of unease permeates this evocative novel, which holds a very unsettling power indeed. * Heat on The Wayward Girls *Wonderfully creepy debut ... Cleverly plotted and keeping the reader on the edge of the seat until the end of with a supremely satisfying denouement. * I newspaper on The Wayward Girls *A compelling story with fascinating characters and a truly mesmerising setting. * NB magazine *

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Book SynopsisThe brand-new psychological suspense novel from the author of After She's Gone, soon to be a major motion picture starring Daisy Ridley.'DAZZLING ORIGINALITY' SUNDAY TIMES'THE VERY TOP TIER OF SCANDINAVIAN CRIME FICTION' ANDERS DE LA MOTTE, AUTHOR OF RITES OF SPRINGAfter eighteen-year-old Samuel finds himself in the middle of a drug deal gone wrong, he is forced to leave home in a hurry. Heading south, he finds refuge in a sleepy coastal town, working as a live-in assistant to the son of a wealthy family.When the body of a young man washes up in Stockholm's southern archipelago, investigator Manfred Olsson is called in to work the case. With his two-year-old daughter in a coma, he is reluctant to leave her bedside - but once another body is discovered, his search for the killer intensifies.As Samuel adjusts to life under the radar, he begins to feel safe, even with a gang out for blood and the police on his trail. But it isn't long before he realises that his sanctuary may be home to a deadly secret.What readers are saying about THE HIDEOUT:'Full of intrigue, mystery and suspense [...] Scandi Noir at its very best. Highly recommended' Cal Turner Reviews 'A Nordic Noir in every sense of the word, this novel is a tense, well-written book' Sharon Beyond the Books 'Utterly gripped [...] I loved The Hideout' Jera's Jamboree 'A tense and eerie thriller that made me have goosebumps throughout' Echoes in an Empty Room 'A five-star read' Jackie's Reading 4 Leisure 'Twisty and gripping' Ceri's Little Blog 'Unpredictable [...] intriguing' Fiction From Afar 'A moral tale with a slow burn aesthetic which I would highly recommend to any fan of Nordic Noir!' Rachel Read It 'This is a great read, perfect for cold nights this winter' Varietats 'Clever and compelling [...] A very enjoyable, twisted thriller' Rambling Mads 'This is well written and captivated me completely. I have been kept guessing till the very end' Little Miss Book Lover 87 'This is a slow burning Scandi Noir [...] really enjoyable' Book 'n' Banter 'Fascinating characters [...] begins with a sucker punch of an opening chapter!' No More Grumpy BooksellerTrade ReviewCamilla Grebe is one of those authors who demonstrate the continuing inventiveness of Scandinavian crime fiction ... a plot of dazzling originality -- Joan Smith * Sunday Times *With The Hideout Camilla Grebe solidifies her position at the very top tier of Scandinavian crime fiction * Anders de la Motte, author of Rites of Spring *

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Book SynopsisFrom the winner of the Richard and Judy Search for a Bestseller competition comes another tantalising Golden Age wartime mystery.**DON'T MISS THE LASTEST JOSEPHINE FOX MYSTERY, A CONFLICT OF INTERESTS. OUT NOW!**PRAISE FOR THE JOSEPHINE FOX SERIES:'Terrific ... captures brilliantly the atmosphere of wartime Britain' ANN CLEEVES'Feisty, determined and brave - I loved Josephine Fox' JUDY FINNIGAN'A complete delight ... sings with authenticity' CAZ FREARDECEMBER 1942. As the war rages on, the accidental death of a young man is almost unremarkable. Except this young man was patrolling the grounds of Hursley Park House, where teams are designing crucial modifications to the Spitfire - and he was found clutching part of a blueprint.JANUARY 1943. Josephine Fox is given a code name and a mission as she is seconded to Hursley: uncover the network responsible for information leaks to the enemy. And when the dead man's father visits Bram Nash convinced that his son was innocent of espionage and the victim of murder, her friend is also drawn into the investigation.But as Jo and Bram circle closer to the truth, danger is closing in around them...*INCLUDES AN EXCLUSIVE LOOK AT THE NEXT JOSEPHINE FOX MYSTERY, A CONFLICT OF INTERESTS*

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Book SynopsisTHE ROYALLY BRILLIANT THIRD BOOK IN THE HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN INVESTIGATES MYSTERY SERIES.____________________December 2016 - A severed hand is found washed up on a beach next to the Queen's estate at Sandringham.Elizabeth has become quite accustomed to solving even the most complex of murders. And though she quickly identifies the 70-year-old victim, Edward St Cyr, from his signet ring, the search for his killer is not so straightforward. St Cyr led an unconventional, often controversial life, making many enemies along the way in the quiet, rural world of North Norfolk, where everyone knows each other's business.But when a second man is found dead, and a prominent local woman is nearly killed in a hit-and-run, the mystery takes an even darker turn.With the winter break coming to an end, the Queen and her trusted assistant Rozie must race to discover how the pieces of the puzzle fit together. Or the next victim may be found even closer to home.Agatha Christie meets The Crown in MURDER MOST ROYAL, the much-anticipated third book in the 'Her Majesty The Queen Investigates' mystery series by SJ Bennett - for fans of The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton's Agatha Raisin.______________________PRAISE FOR THE 'HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN INVESTIGATES' SERIES:'A witty whodunit starring our very own HM The Queen as an amateur sleuth' - GOOD HOUSEKEEPING'A pitch-perfect murder mystery' - Ruth Ware'Written with wit and brio' - Daily Express'Miss Marple with a crown' - Daily Mirror'Absolute perfection!' - Isabelle Broom'Delightfully charming' - Adele Parks'Pure confection' - New York Times'Warm & witty' - Woman&Home'A delightful read' - BBC Radio 2'I loved it' - Joanne Harris'A total joy' - Nina Stibbe'Charming' - Guardian'What a hoot!' - SagaTrade ReviewS.J. Bennett's series of crime novels featuring the Queen as amateur sleuth are more than tributes to a widely loved and admired monarch. They are absorbing murder mysteries full of character, wit, and a healthy dose of human insight. Affectionate and utterly charming * VASEEM KHAN *Warm and amusing, this murder mystery set during a Sandringham Christmas with the Queen at the helm is an absolute treat * LOVEREADING Book of the Month *

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Book SynopsisThe brand-new novel from the winner of the Richard and Judy Search for a Bestseller competition.'A CRACKING READ' HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY'THIS ATMOSPHERIC WARTIME MYSTERY IS PERFECT FOR FANS OF FOYLE'S WAR' CANDISJune 1944, Romsey, England.Josephine 'Jo' Fox is at an impasse since the unwelcome return of her wayward husband Richard. So, when he disappears again, she is neither concerned nor surprised - until a burning car is discovered with a body inside. And there are signs that Richard is somehow involved.Jo is determined to find both her husband and answers, yet with her friend Bram Nash in hospital suffering an infection of his old war wound, she must do so alone. When information comes to light that implicates Bram too, Jo finds herself on a dangerous path to the truth.But what will be left for her when all is revealed?PRAISE FOR THE JOSEPHINE FOX SERIES:' Terrific ... captures brilliantly the atmosphere of wartime Britain' ANN CLEEVES' Feisty, determined and brave - I loved Josephine Fox' JUDY FINNIGAN'A complete delight ... sings with authenticity' CAZ FREARTrade ReviewFeisty, determined and brave - I loved Josephine Fox * Judy Finnigan on The Unexpected Return of Josephine Fox *A complete delight. The story sings with authenticity and I found myself transported to 1940s Romsey from the very first page ... Unputdownable * Caz Frear on The Unexpected Return of Josephine Fox *A terrific debut novel, which captures brilliantly the atmosphere of wartime Britain * Ann Cleeves on The Unexpected Return of Josephine Fox *This atmospheric wartime mystery is perfect for fans of Foyle's war * Candis *Gradidge captures vividly the impact of war on a rural community ... A cracking read * Historical Novel Society *

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Book SynopsisAgatha Christie meets Andy Weir in the ultimate locked room mystery set in the first hotel on the moon. Perfect for fans of Lucy Foley, Anthony Horowitz and Hanna Jameson.FEATURED IN THE EVENING STANDARD'S BOOKS TO WATCH IN 2023THE BELFAST TELEGRAPH'S BOOK OF THE MONTH JUNE 2023 'The moon makes for a spectacular setting in this highly entertaining Agatha Christie-style murder mystery' TM LOGAN, author of The Mother and The Holiday'And Then There Were None meets Black Mirror. Lauren Forry's moon-based murder mystery is heaps of fun. I had a blast!' TOM HINDLE, author of A Fatal Crossing THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME. YOU'D DIE TO BE THERE.Ten lucky people have won a place at the most exclusive launch event of the century: the grand opening of the Hotel Artemis, the first hotel on the moon. It's an invitation to die for. As their transport departs for its return to Earth and the doors seal shut behind them, the guests take the next leap for mankind.However, they soon discover that all is not as it seems. The champagne may be flowing, but there is no one to pour it. Room service is available, but there is no one to deliver it. Besides the ten of them, they are completely alone.When one of the guests is found murdered, fear spreads through the group. But that death is only the beginning. Being three days' journey from home and with no way to contact the outside, can any of the guests survive their stay?'A truly dastardly, devilish and downright terrific murder mystery that's unputdownable' JONATHAN WHITELAW, author of The Bingo Hall Detectives'The ultimate locked room mystery - an out-of-this-world And Then There Were None' FIONA LEITCH, author of The Cornish Wedding Murder'A truly unique take on a locked room murder' SARAH YARWOOD-LOVETT, author of A Murder of Crows'Get lost in space in this fresh twist on the locked-room mystery. Fast-paced and funny, The Launch Party will take you to the dark side of the moon' JO FURNISS, author of All the Little ChildrenTrade ReviewAnd Then There Were None meets Black Mirror. Lauren Forry's moon-based murder mystery is heaps of fun. I had a blast! * Tom Hindle, author of A Fatal Crossing *The moon makes for a spectacular setting in this highly entertaining Agatha Christie-style murder mystery * TM Logan, author of The Mother and The Holiday *A truly dastardly, devilish and downright terrific murder mystery that's unputdownable. Lauren's writing sparkles with the grisly wonder that all modern crime books should have * Jonathan Whitelaw, author of The Bingo Hall Detectives *The ultimate locked room mystery - an out-of-this-world And Then There Were None. Hidden secrets, red herrings aplenty, and a satisfying twist. This book should really take off! * Fiona Leitch, author of The Cornish Wedding Murder *There's no atmosphere on the moon - unless you're at Hotel Artemis, where the mood is distinctly menacing. Lauren Forry delivers a truly unique take on a locked room murder * Sarah Yarwood-Lovett, author of A Murder of Crows *This Agatha Christie-esque story set in space is an entertaining and cleverly plotted locked-room mystery that will keep you guessing * Culturefly *Get lost in space in this fresh twist on the locked-room mystery. Fast-paced and funny, The Launch Party will take you to the dark side of the moon * Jo Furniss, author of All the Little Children *OMG this is one brilliant locked-room mystery. I simply couldn't put it down and I anticipate it will be a well-deserved holiday hit * Bishop Stratford Independent *An extremely fun, original mystery, and absolutely perfect for summer reading * BookBrunch *

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Book SynopsisThe war is over, but in this world made for men can she carve her own path? 'A richly detailed historical drama' USA Today1865. The American Civil War has just ended.When Vita Tenney's father tells her she must abandon her dream of becoming a doctor and get married instead, she looks for a means of escape - and finds one in war veteran Jacob Culhane. Damaged bywhat he's seen in battle and with all his family gone, Jacob is seeking a new start. Then he meets Vitaand together they hatch a plan. But even the best plans have unexpected consequences . . .Sweeping and atmospheric, The Physician's Daughter is a compelling story of ambition, betrayal and loveand of two people trying to make their way in a world that is struggling to escape its past.'Vividly realised, and impeccably researched, with a determined female lead'Kayte Nunn, author of The Botanist's Daughter'Historical fiction at its best' Tracy Rees, author of The Rose Garden Readers love The Physician's Daughter 'For women who decide not to take "no" as the final answer' 'Exceptionally detailed and atmospheric' 'A page turner . . . I read it in a day' 'A must for all fans of historical drama' 'Phenomenal'Trade ReviewI LOVED it. What an achievement - historical fiction at its best. It was so detailed, real and atmospheric - I felt I was there with Vita, Jacob et al. Tremendous characters - vivid, complex and inspiring . . . a truly wonderful book. One of those books that stop you doing ANYTHING until it's finished. Utterly compelling & inspiring. A sweeping story of an amazing woman battling to break through the constraints of her time. Read it! * Tracy Rees *Vividly realised, and impeccably researched, with a determined female lead, this is perfect for fans of Jennifer Donnelly. * Kayte Nunn, author of The Botanist's Daughter *A riveting read set during the American civil war, about a pioneering young woman dead-set on becoming a doctor. * Inga Vesper, author of The Long, Long Afternoon *In the proud tradition of female characters from Jo March to Meredith Grey, Vita Tenney takes her place as a determined woman unwilling to let society or her family control her destiny. I was captivated by The Physician's Daughter. The novel stays with you. * Tony Phelan, executive producer of Grey's Anatomy and Council of Dads *Completely charming -- Imogen Hermes Gowar on The Floating Theatre

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Book Synopsis'Should be at the top of everyone's wish list. Fennell has created one of the most compelling characters in UK crime fiction' - M.W. CRAVENFOR THIS KILLER IT'S DEATH AT FIRST SIGHT . . .______________________Two men are found dead in London's Battersea Park. One of the bodies has been laid out like a crucifix - with his eyes removed and placed on his open palms.Detective Inspector Grace Archer and her caustic DS, Harry Quinn, lead the investigation. But when more bodies turn up in a similar fashion, they find themselves in a race against time to find the sadistic killer.The hunt leads them to Ladywell Playtower in Southeast London, the home to a religious commune lead by the enigmatic Aaron Cronin. Archer and Quinn suspect Cronin's involvement but his alibis are watertight, and the truth seemingly buried. If Archer is to find the killer, she must first battle her way through religious fanatics, London gangsters - and her own demons . . .______________________What your favourite crime authors are saying about David Fennell:'A truly extraordinary crime novel' - LYNDA LA PLANTE'A stunning start to a fantastic new series' - M.W. CRAVEN'Involved me in a way that few thrillers do, kept me alert and on-edge right up through the deeply satisfying finale' - AJ FINN'I flew through it . . . Tense, gripping and brilliantly inventive' - SIMON LELIC'Unsettling, fast-paced, suspenseful and gripping . . . Excellent' - WILL DEAN'A serial killer thriller with the darkest of hearts' - FIONA CUMMINS'A tense-as-hell high-body count page turner, but a rarer thing too - one that's also full of genuine warmth and humanity' - WILLIAM SHAW'Chilling, unsettling and wonderfully atmospheric' - BRIAN McGILLOWAY

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Book SynopsisThe second in the detective series featuring DI Geraldine Steel When a man dies in a gas explosion, the police suspect arson. But the case takes on a new and terrible twist when the prime suspect, a local felon, is viciously attacked. As police enquiries lead from the expensive Harchester Hill estate to the local brothel, their key witness dies in a hit-and-run. Coincidence? Or cold-blooded murder? With so many lives lost already, DI Geraldine Steel must put her problems aside, to protect others. After all, in the race for justice, sacrifices must be made.Trade ReviewA well-written, soundly plotted, psychologically acute story -- Marcel Berlins * The Times *Well-written and absorbing right from the get-go... with an exhilarating climax that you don't see coming -- Amanda Gillies * eurocrime.co.uk *Leigh Russell does a good job of keeping her readers guessing. She also uses a deft hand developing her characters, especially the low-lifes... a good read -- Marj Stuart * San Francisco Book Review *perfect character building... cleverly written... can't wait for the next one * bestbookstoread.co.uk *New star of crime fiction, Leigh Russell's chilling psychological thriller is terrific & terrifying! -- Clem Chambers

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Book SynopsisThe Seventh DI Geraldine Steel Mystery Caroline's husband is killed, but she can't turn to the police without implicating herself in his murder. When one of her 10-year-old twins is kidnapped, the desperate mother is forced to resort to drastic measures to get him back. As time runs out, Geraldine realises she has a secret that might just help solve the case, but the truth could destroy her career. Faced with the unenviable decision of protecting herself or the widow she barely knows, Geraldine must grapple with her conscience and do the right thing before the death count mounts any further.Trade ReviewHer previous six novels featuring DI Geraldine Steel marked her out as a rare talent, and this seventh underlines it -- Geoffrey Wansell * Daily Mail *I will be looking out for more from this author -- Fiona Atley * Nudge *a fast-paced Police Procedural and a compelling read -- Carol Westron * Mystery People *the story and writing is back with a vengeance -- Kat * Best Crime Books & More *Fans of the series will enjoy reacquainting themselves with Leigh Russell's work -- Deathbecomesher * Crime Fiction Lover *

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Book SynopsisFear is a state of mind . . . Something scared Nuala Flaherty to death . . . and when her body is found in the centre of a pentagram on a lonely moor, journalist Rebecca Connelly is determined to find the truth. Could she really have been killed by supernatural means, or is there a more realistic explanation? Rebecca's investigation leads her to a dangerous, shadowy cult and a vicious local drug ring. But she is unaware that gangster matriarch Mo Burke still seeks retribution for the death of her son. The crime boss has already failed to hurt Rebecca once before. This time, her vengeance could be lethal. 'A page turning novel in a fine series . . . going from strength to strength' – Scotland on SundayTrade Review'A page turning novel in a fine series.. going from strength to strength' * Scotland on Sunday *'Skelton writes grittily authentic crime novels… fast-paced and straight to the point – like a well-aimed literary projectile' * Times Scotland *'An atmospheric Highland tale… Douglas Skelton is a fine writer with an ironic sense of humour' * Sunday Times Crime Club, Pick of the Week 05/07/2022 *'Where Demons Hide is soaked in atmosphere, the tension drips from the pages and it keeps you on your toes right until the very end' * Chapter in My Life *'Where Demons Hide is a beautifully written crime novel that weaves together several compelling strands. Dark humour, a fast pace and gritty plot kept me intrigued' * LoveReading *'Douglas Skelton will have readers hooked with this gritty crime thriller' * Scots Magazine *'Where Demons Hide combines the relevance of today’s criminal activities with themes of the past to produce a stunning crime thriller that grips the imagination and keeps you listening through to the very end' * Live and Deadly Reviews *'The storyline has everything, it’s dark, and very atmospheric' * Miranda’s Bookscape *‘Drenched in mystery, Highland history and dark humour, the compelling fourth instalment in Douglas Skelton’s Rebecca Connolly series… drips with tension.’ -- Gayle Ritchie * Dundee Courier *'[Where Demons Hide] has a plot that is packed with twists and turns and an ending that is nicely veiled and, when you get to it, feels absolutely right. The result is a superb read; and one I'd very highly recommend,' -- Ken Lussey * Undiscovered Scotland *'packs just as much punch as its predecessors' * Scottish Field *

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Book SynopsisEllie is desperate to find someone to look after their elderly housekeeper, whose health is failing. But employing a carer found by Ellie''s difficult daughter, Diana, proves to be a mixed blessing when Ellie returns from a trip to America to find that carer Claire has implemented a number of bizarre changes to the Quicke household routine.Claire, is heavily involved in ''the Vision'', a local church with a charismatic, powerful pastor, who - seemingly coincidentally - is looking to Ellie for financial help in his current project, housing reformed addicts. But Ellie is suspicious - and more so, when details of Claire''s chequered past comes to light. Can Ellie trust Claire and Pastor Ambrose?Ellie investigates and doesn''t like what she finds . . .

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Book SynopsisOn the run from a troubled past, Kate Weller, the newest member of Price Investigations, covers her tracks, changes her name and takes a case in Charleston, South Carolina, where she can hide in plain sight. Renting a charming room with a waterfront view, Kate sets about trying to locate her adopted client''s natural siblings, only to find more questions than answers when she eventually tracks down a long-lost sister. Meanwhile, her new landlord won''t stop sticking his nose into her case. As far as Kate''s concerned, Eric Manfredi should focus on whatever competitor is bent on ruining his family business. But when petty vandalism turns lethal, and Eric''s father is arrested for murder, Kate determines to prove his innocence. Can she find the real culprit before a killer from her own past tracks her down?

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Book SynopsisMaggy Thorsen''s evening with her fiancé Sheriff Jake Pavlik and his parents in Chicago takes a dramatic turn when Jake''s mother falls ill, then a Chihuahua jumps in front of Maggy''s car on her drive back to Uncommon Grounds, her Wisconsin coffeehouse. Attempting to return Mocha to her owners, George and Marian Satterwite, the following day, Maggy comes face-to-face with Arial, their dog-sitter and her business partner Sarah''s niece. But something doesn''t feel right . . . Returning to the property, Maggy and Marian make a shocking discovery. And where are George and Arial? With Jake still in Chicago and Sarah desperate to find her niece, Maggy is soon drawn into another deadly puzzle.

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Book Synopsis‘Mary does it again with another thrill ride of a book! So many twists and turns right from the start.’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Old secrets are hard to keep buried in this gritty and gripping novel of suspense from New York Times bestselling author Mary Burton. Kelsey Warren may now be a high-flying journalist, but she’s never forgiven her reckless mother Donna for abandoning her as a teenager. Yet when Kelsey returns to her hometown and discovers her mother’s body at the bottom of a flooded quarry with a gunshot wound in her chest, Kelsey’s world is flipped upside down. Her mother didn’t desert her; she was killed. Despite Sheriff Mitch Garrett's pleas to leave the case alone, Kelsey is determined to uncover the truth about her mother. But small towns hide big secrets, and someone has their eye on Kelsey and is set on silencing her for good. Previously published as In Dark Waters Readers LOVE Keep You Close! ‘Love anything by this author and this one did not disappoint! Absolutely fantastic.’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Well written with a compelling storyline and well-developed characters. A good amount of twists and suspense and unpredictability that left me guessing until the end.’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I really enjoyed this book… Definitely recommend.’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Mary Burton’s books are always a must read… A fast paced, fast moving story.’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Mary Burton is a class act. Her writing is consistently brilliant and Keep You Close is no exception.’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Loved it! Keep You Close is a wild and terrifying ride. Highly enjoyable and I had a hard time putting it down!’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Lots of twists and turns with gritty characters that you cant help but love. Once you start reading you can't put it down!’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I absolutely devour anything that Mary Burton writes. She is an automatic go-to author for me to grab and read. She has definitely done it again!’ – NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book Synopsis'A gripping page-turner' Sunday Times 'Beautifully written and compelling' Sabine Durrant 'Satisfyingly creepy' Sunday MirrorThe loss of her mother has left Kali McKenzie with too many unanswered questions. But while clearing out Elena's art studio, she finds a drawer packed with postcard each bearing an identical one-line message from a Canadian gallery owner called Susannah Gillespie: thinking of you. Who is this woman and what does she know about Elena's hidden past?Desperate to find out, Kali travels with her toddler, Finn, to Susannah's isolated home on a remote British Columbian island, a place of killer whales and storms. But as bad weather closes in, Kali quickly realises she has made a big mistake. The enigmatic Susannah refuses to talk about the past, and as Kali struggles to piece together what happened back in the 1970s, Susannah's behaviour grows more and more erratic. Most worrying of all, Susannah is becoming increasingly preoccupied with little Finn . . .PRAISE FOR LUCY ATKINS'Wonderfully skilled' Sarah Perry'Sly, witty and gripping' Naomi Alderman'Wholly beguiling' Mick Herron'Highly intelligent' Sarah Vaughan'Beguiling, brilliantly creepy' Claire FullerTrade ReviewHorribly, horribly compulsive. Brilliant * Fiona Barton, author of The Widow *A gripping page-turner * The Sunday Times *Taut, tense, and beautifully written. I held my breath between chapters and didn't sleep until I reached the end * Clare Mackintosh, author of I Let You Go *A complex, creepy and insidious novel * The Guardian on The Night Visitor *The rich characterisation makes for an alarmingly plausible riches-to-rags tale * Sunday Times on The Night Visitor *Elegant, clever, beautifully written. Lucy Atkins is, quite frankly, a genius * Joanna Cannon, author of The Trouble with Goats and Sheep *Thrillingly creepy and darkly funny, The Night Visitor set me racing through the chapters with its brilliant plotting and characters that crackle off the page. A cannot tear yourself away novel * Kate Hamer, author of The Girl in the Red Coat *Addictive . . . a pace so relentless that you'll want to inhale this novel in one uninterrupted sitting * Sunday Times on The Other Child *This atmospheric, propulsive novel creeps up on you like footsteps in the dead of night... a tingling layer of gothic suspense * Metro on The Night Visitor *One of the most vivid, memorable and menacing characters I've ever read...Dark, tense and menacing, I was quickly drawn into the story and couldn't put it down. Readers who enjoyed Notes on a Scandal by Zoe Heller will adore it * CL Taylor, author of The Lie *Wonderfully dark and intriguing. In Vivian, Atkins has created a fascinating and sinister character who will stay with you long after you've finished the book. Highly recommended * Linda Green, author of While My Eyes Were Closed *Such a sophisticated, layered read, I absolutely revelled in it. A wonderful, wonderful book. The plotting is superb but the real triumph is the characterisation. The moment I finished, I wanted to read it all over again * Clare Mackintosh on The Night Visitor *I absolutely loved this novel. The Other Child is seriously gripping, seriously scary and seriously brilliant * Clare Kendal, author of The Book of You *Atmospheric and packed with suspense, kept me on edge from start to finish * Woman & Home Magazine on The Other Child *Sinister, suspenseful and a great sense of place. It races along, as a family history is unpickedFabulously dark * Woman & Home on The Night Visitor *Sinister, utterly compulsive...will keep your pulse racing until its dramatic denouement * Red Magazine on The Night Visitor *Truly unnerving. Atkins perfectly captures the vulnerability that comes with moving overseas, away from friends and support networks, and uses it expertly in this compelling novel. Not just one-more-page gripping but perceptive and beautifully written * Lucie Whitehouse on The Other Child *An elegantly written page-turner which pulled me in from the start and held its grip until the final page * Renee Knight, author of Disclaimer *An absolute cracker...Fantastic! * Sunday Mirror on The Night Visitor *It's wonderfully creepy, in that clever way that is tied in with character, as much as plot and setting. And the beetle metaphor is just ingenious * Sabine Durrant, author of Lie With Me *The tension is immediate and unrelenting; the sense of unease palpable. Deceptive on every level, this is a gripping, Rendellesque read * Mick Herron, author of Spook Street *Enjoyably creepy * Sunday Express on The Night Visitor *Utterly gripping * Literary Review on The Night Visitor *The last book I read in one sitting like this was Louise Doughty's Apple Tree Yard. Like Louise, Lucy Atkins is brilliant at ramping up the tension so that there's not a chance of relief until the end * Polly Samson *Brilliantly believable...you will relish every page * The People on The Night Visitor *This is an enthralling, creepy and endlessly twisty story about secrets, lies and the destructive power of ambition. We galloped to the climax. Five stars * Heat on The Night Visitor *I read this book in one sitting. A tense psychological thriller which explores authenticity, fame, and lies and the depths you might sink to in order to protect your reputation. A page-turner that keeps you gripped from the very first page * Psychologies on The Night Visitor *It put me in mind of Misery, and Rebecca. Splendidly tense, creepy and enjoyable * Sarah Hilary, author of Quieter Than Killing *Characters so real you could reach out and touch them. Absorbing, exciting and full of rich detail - snap this one up! * Lucie Whitehouse, author of Keep You Close *Beautifully crafted, unsettling and utterly unputdownable, The Night Visitor explores what happens when we take someone else's story and make it our own * Nuala Ellwood, author of My Sister's Bones *Crackles with undercurrents of mistrust and menace. Tense, atmospheric and beautifully written, this unnerving tale of ambition and revenge held me captive until the last page. Brilliant * Amanda Jennings, author of In Her Wake *Clever, multilayered and morally murky. I read it with a delicious sense of dread * Tammy Cohen, author of When She Was Bad *Elegantly written with a rollercoaster of twists and turns, The Night Visitor has creepy echoes of Zoe Heller's Notes on a Scandal. I read it in two sittings * Elizabeth Heathcote, author of Undertow *The Night Visitor is an addictive and intricately plotted page-turner. I devoured it and I loved it * Hannah Beckermann, author and journalist *Thrilling...the sort of book you think about even when not reading, and stay up far later than you should to finish. Atkins is a master of suspense; she creates characters that you feel like you've met, and situations you never want to be in. Completely wonderful * Dr Suzannah Lipscomb, historian, author and TV presenter *It's clever, complex and compelling and grips right up to that completely unexpected twist. A chilling psychological thriller with beetles! * Fanny Blake on The Night Visitor *

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Book SynopsisCrime reporter Rosie Gilmour returns from hiding in Bosnia to a story of a brutal execution. University lecturer Tom Mahoney was shot at point blank range and the killing has all the signs of a hit. But who would want to kill a retired lecturer? Rosie throws herself into the investigation, looking for a witness that has gone missing. A witness that might hold the key to the story. But she has her own reasons to stay hidden. As Rosie digs deeper, she finds the story has connections to the Ministry of Defence and MI6 and Mahoney's past is darker than anyone could imagine. Rosie's running out of time to find out the truth, before Mahoney's killers silence her for good.'Anna Smith is the real deal . . . Rosie Gilmour is a captivating character who drags the reader along at breakneck speed' Daily ExpressTrade ReviewI love to read novels that have strong female protagonists and Rosie Gilmour is up there with the best of them . . . Smith is also an excellent wordsmith and her stories are wonderfully crafted, as well as being exciting and gripping. * Euro Crime Review *"A Cold Killing" is an excellent new addition to a great series. Very recommended. * Upcoming4me *

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Book SynopsisThe death of a young Pakistani bride in Glasgow gets Rosie Gilmour's antennae twitching. She is sure this tragic accident was anything but - but she is not prepared for where her investigation will take her...Rosie has her hands full navigating the sensitivities of this case - the girl's grieving family and the tensions between the white and Pakistani communities in the city - when she is contacted by two prostitutes in serious trouble. One of their clients has died on the job, and they've gone on the run - with his briefcase. The briefcase contains dozens of rough diamonds, and now some thoroughly brutal people are on their trail.On the surface this has nothing to do with the death of the young girl. But Rosie has spent years looking beneath Glasgow's surface into its murky depths, and if anyone can discover the connection between one girl's forced marriage and a ring of diamond smugglers, it's her.'Chilling and compelling' Kimberley ChambersTrade ReviewChilling and compelling * Kimberley Chambers *Anna Smith is the real deal . . . Rosie Gilmour is a captivating character who drags the reader along at breakneck speed * Daily Express *Every single word rings true . . . I can't wait to get my hands on the next one * Lorraine Kelly *[Smith] is an excellent wordsmith and her stories are wonderfully crafted, as well as being exciting and gripping * Eurocrime *A compelling, concisely written page turner, with a feisty heroine * Irish Examiner *

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Book SynopsisChilling thriller for fans of Patricia Gibney and Angela Marsons. Online you never really know who you're talking to. You can never know their true identity or their intentions. Until it's too late...Recently moved to Dublin and struggling with a new baby, for support Yvonne turns to an online forum for mothers. Drawn into a world of new friends, she volunteers more and more information about herself. When one of these friends goes abruptly offline, Yvonne suspects something is wrong, but dismisses her fears as imagination.Then the body of a young woman with striking similarities to Yvonne's missing friend is found, and she realizes that they're all in terrifying danger. She must persuade Detective Claire Boyle, herself about to go on maternity leave, to take her fears seriously before others disappear.'Brilliantly original and genuinely scary' Sunday Mirror'Chilling, riveting and brilliantly written, you'll be up reading this way into the night! CloserTrade Review'A brilliantly original and truly riveting story, full of well-crafted characters and a shocker of a twist that you won't see coming. Once you start reading this, you won't be able to stop' Melissa Hill. * Melissa Hill *'A cracking read and a great crime thriller. Highly recommended. Brilliant!' Liz Nugent author of Unravelling Oliver. * Liz Nugent *'A fantastic debut novel that homes in on our darkest fears. Believable characters combined with escalating tension make this an edge-of-your-seat read' Elly Griffiths. * Elly Griffiths *'A fast-paced, chilling psychological thriller that explores our deepest fears about trust and the internet. I'm already looking forward to Detective Claire Boyle's next outing' Louise Millar. * Louise Millar *'A gripping, fast-paced tale' Irish Times. * Irish Times *'Brilliant observations about the early days of motherhood ... moving, at times wryly funny and always completely convincing ... I loved it' Erin Kelly. * Erin Kelly *'Chilling, riveting and briliantly written, you'll be up reading this way into the night!' Closer. * Closer *'Disturbing and emotional ... I loved this book' Alex Marwood. * Alex Marwood *'The sinister side of social media is explored to wonderfully chilling effect ... A brilliantly original and genuinely scary debut' Sunday Mirror. * Sunday Mirror *'A brilliantly original and truly riveting story, full of well-crafted characters and a shocker of a twist that you won't see coming. Once you start reading this, you won't be able to stop' Melissa Hill. * Melissa Hill *

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Book SynopsisTHE FIFTH BOOK IN CLAIRE MACLEARY'S MULTI-AWARD-LISTED HARCUS & LAIRD SERIES 'Claire MacLeary has, with little fuss or fanfare, written a crime series that subverts and rejuvenates the crime genre' Scots Whay Hae A disturbing hanging with a backstory of secrets and shaming highlights some outdated attitudes within Aberdeen’s finest. After past skirmishes with the police, local PI Maggie Laird is determined to steer clear, but her partner, Wilma Harcus, goes rogue. Not only does she have leads up her sleeve, but she has grandiose ideas to expand their PI agency into the realm of romance fraud and cybercrime. Then, troubled schoolchild Frankie Bain goes missing. As the clock runs down, the two investigations collide. Was the hanging the last, desperate act of a tortured mind or a calculated murder? And will Frankie Bain be found alive? In this fifth Harcus and Laird novel, Claire MacLeary fashions a fast-paced, fresh and topical new adventure for her inimitable PI partnership.

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Book SynopsisA pregnant Sam Shephard investigates the murder of an expectant mother in Dunedin, as it becomes clear that the killer is ready to strike again … Queen of New Zealand Crime, Vanda Symon, returns with a shocking, twisty new Sam Shephard thriller… 'From the opening pages, this story left me gasping for breath' Michael Robotham ‘Chillingly intense with a finely honed sense of place … Vanda Symon knows Dunedin and brings it vibrantly to life in this fast-paced thriller’ Craig Robertson ‘An excellent thriller, definitely one of the best of this year. Vanda Symon is a master of characterisation, plot and dialogue … I loved every moment’ Liz Nugent 'New Zealand's modern Queen of Crime' Val McDermid _________________________________ A killer targeting pregnant women.A detective expecting her first baby… The shocking murder of a heavily pregnant woman throws the New Zealand city of Dunedin into a tailspin, and the devastating crime feels uncomfortably close to home for Detective Sam Shephard as she counts down the days to her own maternity leave. Confined to a desk job in the department, Sam must find the missing link between this brutal crime and a string of cases involving mothers and children in the past. As the pieces start to come together and the realisation dawns that the killer’s actions are escalating, drastic measures must be taken to prevent more tragedy. For Sam, the case becomes personal, when it becomes increasingly clear that no one is safe and the clock is ticking… _______________________ ‘Dark, chilling and utterly heartbreaking. A highly emotive and compelling thriller’ Michael Wood ‘New Zealand's answer to Siobhan Clarke’ The Times 'The Edinburgh of the south has never been more deadly' Ian Rankin ‘From the ominous and shocking beginning to the heart-pounding ending, Expectant had me in its grasp’ Nikki Crutchley 'A sassy heroine, fabulous sense of place, and rip-roaring stories with a twist. Perfect curl-up-on-the-sofa reading' Kate Mosse 'Fans of The Dry will love Vanda Symon' Red Magazine ‘A wonderful storyteller’ Helen FitzGerald Praise for Vanda Symon ***SHORTLISTED for the CWA John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger*** ***SHORTLISTED for Best Paperback in the Barry Awards*** 'If you like taut, pacy thrillers with a wonderful sense of place, this is the book for you' Liam McIlvanney 'Vanda Symon's work resembles Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series she knows how to tell a good story and the NZ setting adds spice' The Times 'Atmospheric, emotional and gripping' Foreword Reviews 'A plot that grabs the reader's attention with a heart-stopping opening and doesn't let go' Sunday Times 'It is Symon's copper Sam, self-deprecating and very human, who represents the writer's real achievement' Guardian ‘Edgy, thrilling and terrifyingly realistic’ Lisa Hall ‘All the thrills of a brilliantly plotted crime novel with some interesting moral questions woven between the words. Fast, furious and intense' Helen Fields 'Completely gripping … a poignant study of how our society shapes unlikely saints and monsters' Eve Smith

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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