Crime and mystery: women sleuths / detectives

Book SynopsisA brand new omnibus of 55 short stories, presented for the first time in chronological order.Described by her friend Dolly Bantry as the typical old maid of fiction', Miss Marple has lived almost her entire life in the sleepy hamlet of St Mary Mead. Yet, by observing village life she has gained an unparalleled insight into human nature and used it to devasting effect. As her friend Sir Henry Clithering, the ex-Commissioner of Scotland Yard has been heard to say: She's just the finest detective God ever made.' and many Agatha Christie fans would agree.Appearing for the first time in The Murder at The Vicarage (1930) her crime-fighting career spanned over forty years when she solved her final case in 1977 in Sleeping Murder. With every tale flawlessly plotted by the Queen of Crime herself, these short stories provide a feast for hardened Agatha Christie addicts as well as those who have grown to love the detective through her many film and television appearances.Here, for the first tiTrade Review‘The plots are so good that one marvels… most of them would have made a full length thriller.’ Daily Mirror

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe sixth book in the multi-million copy bestselling No. 1 Ladies'' Detective Agency seriesThe one where Mma Makutsi finds a dancing partner . . . Although Mma Ramotswe and Mr J. L. B. Matekoni have finally settled down, at the shared premises of the No. 1 Ladies'' Detective Agency and Speedy Motors, the staff - especially Mma Makutsi and Charlie the garage apprentice - are not mixing in a perfectly peaceful manner. But in the course of investigating her latest case, of a very unhappy young lady, Mma Ramotswe''s tiny white van comes into contact with a man on a bicycle who might be able to restore harmony. And Mma Makutsi does at last seem to have found someone special... ''A rare pleasure'' Daily Telegraph''Gentle, rich'' Sunday Times''A strong, independent and endearing model for contemporary women'' Boston Globe''A literary confection... there is no end to the pleasTrade ReviewA rare pleasure * Daily Telegraph *Forget the library - the body is in the mud hut. An African Miss Marple created by a Scottish lawyer . . . superb * Sunday Times *One of the most entrancing literary treats of many a year * Wall Street Journal *A strong, independent, and endearing model for contemporary women anywhere . . . A crowded fictional genre will have to make room for Precious Ramotswe. In the best sense possible, she's a heavyweight * Boston Globe *McCall Smith's style melts words into instant meaning and the music of all the novel's principal voices is a chorus you cannot resist * Scotsman *A literary confection... Fortunately, since texts aren't cakes, there is no end to the pleasure * New York Times Book Review *Enchanting... In the Company of Cheerful Ladies may be the most compelling of the lot * Daily News *Beguiling, lyrical... blessed with McCall Smith's richly detailed portraits of life in Africa and his flair for storytelling with an engaging cast of fully realized characters * Los Angeles Times *A rare pleasure * Daily Telegraph *Forget the library - the body is in the mud hut. An African Miss Marple created by a Scottish lawyer . . . superb * Sunday Times *One of the most entrancing literary treats of many a year * Wall Street Journal *A strong, independent, and endearing model for contemporary women anywhere . . . A crowded fictional genre will have to make room for Precious Ramotswe. In the best sense possible, she's a heavyweight * Boston Globe *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSue Grafton has become one of the most popular female writers, both in the UK and in the US. Born in Kentucky in 1940, she began her career as a TV scriptwriter before Kinsey Millhone and the 'alphabet' series took off. Two of the novels B is for Burglar and C is for Corpse won the first Anthony Awards for Best Novel. Sue wrote twenty-five novels in her alphabet series, the last was Y is for Yesterday, before her death in California in December 2017.Trade ReviewWill keep you awake until the last page has been turned. * Daily Mail *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE SIXTEENTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES'' DETECTIVE SERIESThe one with Mma Ramotswe''s summer holiday . . . Mma Ramotswe is taking a break, leaving important tasks in the capable hands of Mma Makutsi, co-director of the No. 1 Ladies'' Detective Agency. But Mma Ramotswe soon finds herself interfering in cases (secretly, or so she intends). While on ''holiday'', she delves into the past of a man whose reputation is brought into question, she is called upon to rescue a small boy - and discovers Violet Sephotho''s latest underhand business endeavour: the No. 1 Ladies'' Secretarial College. Meanwhile, Mma Makutsi hires a part-time science teacher as an assistant, and suspects that her authority is being undermined.Will Mma Ramotswe be caught out?Trade ReviewLike [Barbara] Pym, McCall Smith believes that the small stuff in life matters * Scotsman *

Read more less

Book SynopsisDon't miss this utterly gripping and emotional thriller from Sunday Times bestselling author Susan Lewis!Secrets lie at the heart of every familyWhen the unthinkable happensHanna's world is crumbling.An unimaginable crime has been committed, and everyone's looking for someone to blame. Her loved ones are under suspicion.Now Hanna must work out who is threatening her family before it's too late.No one could have seen this comingReal readers love No One Saw It ComingMaster storyteller Susan Lewis blends emotional family drama, heart-stopping tension and nail-biting suspense' Reader review ?????A mesmerizing, immersive and emotional tale that is a struggle to put down' Reader review ?????Had me hooked from the start' Reader review ?????Best book I've had the pleasure to read in a very long time' Reader review ?????Trade Review.Acclaim for Susan Lewis: ‘Lewis’s book has you by the collar from page one. You just don’t want it to stop. Relatable characters and an unusual, intriguing plot, she kept me guessing to the last’ Hilary Boyd ‘An intriguing read that drew me in from the very beginning. It combines heartfelt family drama with a gripping plot. The characters are expertly drawn … Susan has done a brilliant job of weaving her research seamlessly into the novel’ Julie Corbin ‘I was hooked by the suspenseful plotting, depth of character and legal backdrop. This is a deep book which I greatly enjoyed. Rather like an appetite-wetting five course meal with a surprise menu’ Jane Corry ‘Rich, seamless and masterful storytelling with so many ‘oh my god’ twisty moments… Absolute genius. I was totally gripped’ Rebecca Thornton ‘Susan Lewis has a gift for telling warm family stories that also take you by surprise’ Jane Corry‘A gripping read’ Bella ‘A gripping and compelling tale of justice and forgiveness’ The Courier ‘A compelling, timely mystery’ Lisa Ballantyne ‘My Lies, Your Lies has gone straight to the top of my favourite Susan reads. Full of drama, intrigue with so many twists and turns, I promise you'll be surprised and captivated right to the end’ Carmel Harrington ‘A master storyteller’ Diane Chamberlain ‘Utterly compelling’ Sun

Read more less

Book SynopsisKAREN PIRIE RETURNS. A MASTERFUL THRILLER BY THE NO.1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER VAL MCDERMID__________Edinburgh, haunted by the ghosts of its many writers, is also the cold case beat of DCI Karen Pirie. So she shouldn''t be surprised when an author''s manuscript appears to be a blueprint for an actual crime.Karen can''t ignore the plot''s chilling similarities to the unsolved case of an Edinburgh University student who vanished from her own doorstep. The manuscript seems to be the key to unlocking what happened to Lara Hardie, but there''s a problem: the author died before he finished it.As Karen digs deeper, she uncovers a spiralling game of betrayal and revenge, where lies are indistinguishable from the truth and with more than one unexpected twist . . .The Queen of Crime Val McDermid is at the top of her game in her most gripping and fiendishly clever case yet.Praise for Val McDermid''McDeTrade ReviewPirie is her most sympathetic protagonist and Past Lying one of her most devious and delightful cases * The Times *The Queen of Crime shows no sign of abdicating. Past Lying is as complex, as satisfying and as readable as anything she's written - which makes it another jewel in Val McDermid's crown -- Mick HerronAtmospheric . . . The novel-within-a-novel is not a new device, but McDermid uses it to memorable effect in a piece of fiction that vividly recreates the anxious early months of the Covid pandemic -- Crime Pick of the Month * Sunday Times *A chilling, twisting triumph. Past Lying is a classic mystery, brilliant, heart-stopping and seamless. No one does it better than Val McDermid -- Chris WhitakerVal McDermid's latest offering proves once again why she reigns supreme in the world of crime fiction . . . The intricate and clever plot balances fact and fiction while the heroine Karen Pirie is as captivating as ever. For fans of the series, it's like a reunion with old friends, and for newcomers, it's an invitation to dive into a world of suspense and intrigue where McDermid's storytelling prowess shines through as she skilfully explores themes of betrayal and revenge, leaving readers guessing with every unexpected twist. Simply a must-read for anyone who appreciates top-notch crime fiction * Yours *Original, ingenious, and oh so twisty! It left me breathless -- Belinda BauerThe ingenious plot kept me guessing all the way through. It delivers on every level -- Marian KeyesWith an intricate plot, authentic dialogue, rich details, and masterly McDermid twists and turns, [Past Lying] will delight Pirie fans, existing and new -- Starred review * Library Journal *Riveting . . . McDermid keeps the twists coming hard and fast, and she bolsters them with sharp observations about the toll of Covid on the public psyche. This page-turner grips from the outset and doesn't let go -- Starred review * Publishers Weekly *Ingenious, humane, and all too telling as a reminder of the costs of the pandemic even on its survivors * Kirkus *[McDermid] ingeniously flips over the rug and examines the pattern in reverse. Karen and her supporting cast are absorbing, providing insight into the restrictions on police work during the pandemic and plenty of Scottish flavour * Booklist *[Pirie] is an appealing character . . . McDermid [has] fun describing the inner workings of the crime-fiction profession, including the creation of stories and the politics, favouritism, resentment, jealousy and score-settling found behind the scenes * Literary Review *A spiralling game of betrayal and revenge. A real tour-de-force * Irish Independent *The eerie landscape of Scotland's capital provides the backdrop to a new thriller from McDermid signalling the return of her much-loved detective Karen Pirie * Scotsman *A cracking read * Daily Express *A deadly game of revenge. Another twisty thriller * Heat *Past Lying sees McDermid simultaneously at her darkest and most playful. The central plot is a wonderfully tricksy story within a story within a story * Mail on Sunday *McDermid plots her novels in masterly style. She holds the reader's attention and provokes our curiosity . . . Her ingenuity commands respect . . . McDermid is deservedly popular and now acclaimed as the Queen of Crime. She is a fine carpenter, her books always well-constructed. She has the confidence to take her time in the telling of her story . . . She is at her ingenious best here * Scotsman *A complex plot of jealous writers, straying spouses and effective twists. This novel within-a-novel conceit, used to lead the detectives to more concrete evidence, sharply delivers a suitably unsettled atmosphere . . . Affecting * Irish Times *This is such a brilliantly conceived plot line that I was squirming with glee as I turned each page. McDermid is in rare form here, and the book never fails to entertain and surprise . . . Past Lying is a wonder to behold. I place it directly next to McDermid's finest works, like A Place of Execution and The Wire in the Blood. Her use of the pandemic is one of the most clever I have seen to date, and the story within a story that constantly references such greats as Agatha Christie and the aforementioned Highsmith makes this a novel that cannot be missed * Bookreporter *The narrative takes on the characteristics of nested dolls . . . Head and shoulders above many crime novels * Crime Fiction Lover *

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Jane Casey's police procedurals go from strength to strength' Sunday Times'If you have not read Jane Casey, start immediately' Marian Keyes'The most dangerously addictive series in crime fiction' Erin Kelly______________Their job is to fight crime. Now they are the victims. . . A killer is terrorising London and this time the police are the targets.Urgently re-assigned to investigate a series of attacks on fellow officers, Maeve Kerrigan and her boss Josh Derwent have little idea what motivates the killer's fury against the force.And they know it will only be a matter of time before the killer strikes again.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA gripping new thriller from the bestselling author of THE GIRL IN THE SPIDER'S WEB"A classic murder mystery . . . one Holmes himself would have loved to solve" Independent"Fans of dark Swedish crime will love this moody thriller" The Sun"A nerve-racking political thriller with the most exciting detective duo in a long time. Bring on their next case" Romy Hausmann, author of Dear Child"A rich, engrossing novel" Literary Review"Complex and dark" Irish IndependentThe launch of a new series inspired by Sherlock Holmes. A murder investigation brings together two unlikely allies in a race to uncover a shadowy international conspiracy.Professor Hans Rekke: born into a wealthy Stockholm family, world authority on interrogation techniques, capable of vertiginous feats of logic and observation . . . But he might just fall apart when the going gets tough, leading to substance abuse and despair.Micaela Vargas: community police officer, born to Chilean political refugees in a tough suburb, with two brothers on the shady side of the law.Vargas feels she has something to prove. She's tenacious and uncompromising, but she needs Rekke's unique mind to help her solve the case. Rekke has it all - wealth, reputation - but also a tendency to throw it all away. He needs Vargas to help him get back on an even keel so he can focus his mind on finding the killer before they're both silenced for good.Translated from the Swedish by Ian GilesTrade ReviewA crime thriller inspired by Sherlock Holmes, written by the author who successfully continued writing Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy sounds like a dream. But it's happened . . . You'll love the massive contrast in styles of the two main characters, as they cope with the ups and downs of a complicated investigation - one Holmes himself would have loved to solve -- Alan Jones * Independent *Takes in the Taliban's hatred of music and musicians, the Americans' use of torture in the 'War on Terror' and much else. [A] rich, engrossing novel. -- Natasha Cooper * Literary Review *Fans of dark Swedish crime will love this moody thriller from the guy who continued Stieg Larsson's dragon tattoo series -- Natasha Harding * The Sun *A slow burner with emphasis on character development, Dark Music is an intricately written and gripping Scandi-crime read - teeing up future stories for its protagonists * Reaction *Dark Music . . . has a cosmopolitan collection of oddball characters, and themes as diverse as classicalmusic and Sweden's antiterrorist policies. -- John Dugdale * The Times (Best Thrillers 2022) *A nerve-racking political thriller with the most exciting detective duo in a long time. Micaela Vargas, a fighter, and Hans Rekke, a tragic genius - characters so complex and engaging that you become addicted to them. Bring on their next case, David Lagercrantz! -- Romy Hausmann, author of Dear ChildA complex and dark Sherlock Holmesian tale, first in a new series by from The Girl in the Spider's Web author. -- Myles McWeeney * Irish Independent *I have no choice but to surrender. David Lagercrantz knows his craft * Expressen *An enormous amount of research is behind this story, everything from music-theoretical concepts to the rapidly growing class alienation of the noughties is depicted with precision * Dagens Nyheter *An ambitious and complex plot that wants to follow the conventional thriller template on one hand, but on the other hand wants to tell us something more * Göteborgs-Posten *Very entertaining . . . the depiction of the double act's friendship is finely tuned and poignant * Svenska Dagbladet *The craftsmanship has been honed following the Millennium novels. As if he has imitated the winning concept to perfection . . . It works brilliantly * Expressen *A must-read . . . Lagercrantz guides us with playful ease * Smålandsposten *Fans of dark Swedish crime will love this moody thriller from the guy who continued Stieg Larsson's dragon tattoo series. -- Natasha Harding * The Sun *A murder investigation with complex international tendrils is well handled by Lagercrantz, and Ian Giles provides an idiomatic translation -- Barry Forshaw * Financial Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis was one of those books that just keeps giving I cannot explain how much I loved this book It's a thriller, it's about friendships, it's about finding your path, it's a murder mystery, it's just brilliant' Reader review, ?????STUNNING! Feminist writing at its absolute best. 10 stars' Reader review, ?????* * *Nessa: The SeekerJo: The ProtectorHarriett: The PunisherWith newfound powers the time has come to take matters into their own handsWidowed Nessa lives alone in her house near the ocean. In the quiet hours, she hears voices belonging to the dead who will only speak to her.On the cusp of fifty Harriett's marriage and career imploded, but her life is far from over in fact, she's undergone a stunning metamorphosis.Jo spent years at war with her body. The rage that arrived with menopause felt like the last straw until she discovers she's able to channel it.Guided by voices only Nessa can hear, the trio discover the abandoned body of a teenage girl. The police have written off the victim. But the women have not. Their own investigations lead to more bodies, and a world of wealth where the rules don't apply and the realisation that laws are designed to protect villains, not the vulnerable.Now three women will avenge the innocent and punish the guilty. IT'S TIME.* * *Praise for Kirsten Miller A perfect contradiction, existing in the shades of grey that real life is so often painted in A story that's as furious as it is tender' Emily Henry A roar of rage, a pacy page-turner, I loved it with all my broken heart. Read it. You'll love it' Marian KeyesA proper smash-the-patriarchy read with tension and a compelling plot to boot Loved it' Harriet TyceA propulsive plot and characters that roar off the page, this is a novel that's unafraid to take on societal misogyny while being satirical and even funny at the same time' GuardianAn addictive, fast-paced crime novel like nothing you've ever read before' Red magazineTrade Review Praise for THE CHANGE ‘A roar of rage, a pacy page-turner, I loved it with all my broken heart. Read it. You’ll love it’ Marian Keyes ‘I loved this wild mystery about a group of midlife women who have just about had enough. I couldn't put it down’ Erin Kelly ‘The Change is a proper smash-the-patriarchy read with tension and a compelling plot to boot. It gave me the same energy as Lessons in Chemistry, and I take my hat off to Harriett The Punisher and will be taking some life lessons from her. Loved it’ Harriet Tyce ‘Part crime thriller, part extended howl of pure rage, The Change takes a scalpel to the cancer of misogyny that infects every cell of western culture, with biting wit and a burning, righteous anger that never lets up. Powerful and original’ Tammy Cohen ‘A brilliant book. Thrilling, fast paced and original. I couldn’t stop reading’ Sarah Morgan ‘How brilliant to read about strong, fabulous women – this is a great book. The Change will inspire women to feel empowered at a time when they feel their strength is waning – could be a life-changer! Fresh and fabulous, teeming with amazing characters, unputdownable – stays with you long after the last page is turned’ Milly Johnson ‘With a propulsive plot and characters that roar off the page, this is a novel that’s unafraid to take on societal misogyny while being satirical and even funny at the same time’ Guardian ‘[A] bewitching and satisfying mystery and thriller . . . A compelling read’ The Independent ‘I loved this book, in particular its three powerful independent no-nonsense female protagonists . . . A feminist thriller for our times’ Nina Pottell, Prima ‘A revenge fantasy and feminist fist-pump – and a balm for trying times’ Grazia ‘An addictive, fast-paced crime novel like nothing you’ve ever read before’ Red magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first thrilling standalone crime novel from the international number one bestseller and Sweden's answer to Val McDermid, Anders de la Motte.'Enthralling...De la Motte juxtaposes the horrors of war with age-old superstitions to superb effect' Joan Smith, Sunday TimesSouthern Sweden: Beautiful countryside, endless forests, coastal walks, dark days - and even darker nights. But beneath the beauty lies a dark heart . . .Skåne, 1986: On the night of Walpurgis, the eve of May Day, where bonfires are lit to ward off evil spirits and preparations are made to celebrate the renewal of spring, a sixteen-year-old girl is ritualistically murdered in the woods beside a castle. Her stepbrother is convicted of the terrible deed and shortly after, the entire family vanishes without a trace.Spring, 2019: Dr Thea Lind moves into the castle. After making a strange discovery in an ancient oak tree on the grounds, her fascination with the old tragedy deepens. As she uncovers more and more similarities between her own troubled past and the murdered girl, she begins to believe that the real truth of the killing was never uncovered.What if the spring of 1986 claimed more than one victim?'A mesmerising amalgam of creepy folklore, festering secrets, dark truths and a damp and mouldering Scandinavian landscape rendered so dark and brooding that is becomes a principal player in this slow-burn, addictive tale' Lancashire Evening PostTrade ReviewEnthralling...De la Motte juxtaposes the horrors of war with age-old superstitions to superb effect -- Joan Smith * Sunday Times *Rites of Spring is an evocative exploration of an old mystery. Dr Thea Lind moves to the small community of Tornaby in southern Sweden and is drawn into the investigation of a murder long considered solved. Anders de la Motte crafts a powerful and enthralling tale that's capped by a twist that makes it all the more satisfying * Adam Hamdy *Rites of Spring is a classy slice of classic Scandi Noir with all the right ingredients - a rural community in which everyone harbours secrets, a murdered girl, a possible miscarriage of justice, and a creepy belief in ancient folklore - I literally couldn't read it fast enough! * Alison Belsham *A mesmerising amalgam of creepy folklore, festering secrets, dark truths and a damp and mouldering Scandinavian landscape rendered so dark and brooding that it becomes a principal player in this slow-burn, addictive tale * Lancashire Evening Post *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA classic British mystery set in the idyllic countryside.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE ONLY THING THAT WILL SHOCK YOU MORE THAN THE FIRST CHAPTER . . . IS THE LASTTHE TWISTY PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER FROM THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF THE WRONG SISTER ''A riveting, edge-of-your-seat excitement fest - the plotting was so sinfully clever that I was kept endlessly guessing'' 5***** Reader Review''It has twist upon twist upon twist, and even then, the final twist took me by surprise. So good!'' 5***** Reader Review________ Jess and Heather were once best friends - until the night Heather''s sister Flora vanished. The night that lies tore their friendship apart. But years later, when a brutal double murder shakes their childhood town, Jess returns home. Because the suspect is Heather. What happened to the girl you used to know? ________ Praise for Claire Douglas: ''Kept me up last night - scary, twisty, all too believable'' Jane Corry ''A page-turning slow burn'' Cara Hunter ''Thrillingly tense and twisty'' B A Paris ''Tense, claustrophobic and gripping'' Paula DalyTrade ReviewFew people do psychological thrillers as claustrophobic and as creepy as Claire Douglas * Tim Weaver, bestselling author of No One Home *Amazing. A twisty whydunnit that I finished in just two days. Smart, gripping and atmospheric, readers will love Then She Vanishes' * Gillian McAllister, bestselling author of Everything But The Truth *A gripping page turner * Jane Fallon, bestselling author of Faking Friends *Cements Claire's reputation as one of the best writers of psychological suspense out there. I loved this dark, twisty tale and sped through it in one sitting. * C J Tudor, author of The Chalk Man *Lifts the stone on a cold case disappearance and asks chilling questions about friendship, loyalty, love and obsession. It's twisty, tense and brimming with atmosphere. I raced to the end * Gilly Macmillan, author of The Nanny *Dark, clever and compelling. A brilliant book! * Nicola Moriarty, author of The Ex *The story races to a tightly-plotted and genuinely surprising end * Woman's Own *Compulsive new thriller . . . Douglas races to a tightly-plotted conclusion * Woman's Weekly *The Hot List * Inside Soap *Huge praise for Claire Douglas. If you are a fan of drama and suspense - and seeking to satisfy your inner detective - look no further * On: Yorkshire Magazine *Praise for Claire Douglas * - *Thrillingly tense and twisty * bestselling author of Behind Closed Doors *Stunning . . . with a killer twist * Closer *Perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train * Marie Claire *A page-turning slow burn * bestselling author of Close to Home *Will give you chills * Sunday Mirror *An addictive read that will leave you on the edge of your seat * Sun *Will have you tearing through the pages * bestselling author of The Mistake I Made *Combines shocking twists effortlessly with sensitive explorations of family dynamics * bestselling author of Anything You Do Say *Superb plotting. I could hardly catch my breath between twists * bestselling author of Before I Let You In *As soon as I finished the first page, I knew I wouldn't be able to put this down * Good Housekeeping *Unforgettably dark and complex * Woman & Home *Kept me up last night. Scary. Twisty. All too believable * bestselling author of My Husband's Wife *Kept me guessing right up to the thrilling finale * bestselling author of One Little Mistake *Absorbing and chilling * bestselling author of Girl Unknown *It's impossible to guess the shocking ending * Saga *A fab and twisty page-turner * bestselling author of Last Seen *So twisty, turning and grippy * bestselling author of What She Knew *

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of The Axeman's Jazz, Ray Celestin's The Mobster's Lament is a gripping tale of crime and jazz music, and the third entry in his City Blues Quartet. A gangster is on his last chance to escape the clutches of New York's mafia families but, as a blizzard descends on NYC, a ruthless serial killer is tracking his every move.New York, 1947.Mob fixer Gabriel Leveson’s plans to flee the city are put on hold when he is tasked with tracking down stolen mob money by ‘the boss of all bosses’, Frank Costello. But while he's busy looking, he doesn't notice who is watching him . . .Meanwhile, Private Investigator Ida Young and her old partner, Michael Talbot, must prove the innocence of Talbot’s son Tom, who has been accused of the brutal murders of four people in a Harlem flophouse. With all the evidence pointing towards him, their only chance of exoneration is to find the killer themselves.Whilst across town, Ida’s childhood friend, Louis Armstrong, is on the brink of bankruptcy, when a promoter approaches him with a strange offer to reignite his career . . .Both a gripping neo-noir crime novel and a vivid, panoramic portrait of New York, The Mobster's Lament takes you to the heart of a city where the Mob has risen to the height of its powers.Though they can be read individually, the City Blues Quartet begins with The Axeman's Jazz and Dead Man's Blues. Complete the series with Sunset Swing. Trade ReviewA vividly written crime thriller which is a contender for book of the year. -- Jon Coates * Daily Mirror *One of the most ambitious and riveting works of crime fiction in years . . . This is a compendious, gripping book that captures the fizzing energy of New York at one of the most exciting points in its history * Sunday Express *A satisfying and multi-layered mystery, and a well researched and dynamic portrait of a teeming city, rife with corruption * Guardian *An edge-of-the-seat crime epic that surpasses the remarkable standards set by its predecessors The Axeman’s Jazz and Dead Man’s Blues . . . A contender for book of the year and should not be missed * Daily Express *Celestin is hugely knowledgeable in portraying the atmosphere of New York. The series is a delight. * The Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA terrifying serial killer is on the loose in Final Cut, the sixth novel in Lin Anderson's forensic crime series featuring Rhona MacLeod.When Claire regains consciousness after a stranger causes her car to crash in a snowstorm, she is frantic to discover that her nine-year-old daughter Emma is missing from the back seat. Then Emma is found in the woods nearby, unharmed but cradling a child’s skull. She claims it ‘called’ to her – and she can hear another voice nearby . . .Meanwhile, forensic scientist Rhona MacLeod is trying to discover the identity of a corpse found badly burnt in a skip. The body is wearing a soldier’s ID tag, but DNA tests show it’s not him. When DS Michael McNab asks for her help identifying the remains Emma found, they discover the two cases are linked in ways they could never have imagined . . .Trade ReviewForensic scientist Rhona MacLeod has become one of the most satisfying characters in modern crime fiction — honourable, inquisitive and yet plagued by doubts and, sometimes, fears . . . As ever, the landscape is stunningly evoked and MacLeod’s decency and humanity shine through on every page * Daily Mail *The best Scottish crime series since Rebus * Daily Record *The bleak landscape is beautifully described, giving this popular series a new lease of life * Sunday Times *Lin Anderson is one of Scotland’s national treasures – don’t be fooled by comparisons, her writing is unique, bringing warmth and depth to even the seediest parts of Glasgow. Lin’s Rhona MacLeod is a complex and compelling heroine who just gets better with every outing -- Stuart MacBride

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeet the Millers''Anyone who enjoys thrillers NEEDS to read this book!'' *****''I practically threw the book across the room when I read THAT twist.'' Heidi Perks, bestselling author of Now You See Her''Allison Dickinson has a sure fire hit on her hands'' *****''Will take your breath away'' CHRISTINA DALCHER, bestselling author of Vox''I loved it!!! Totally mind blowing. This is must read for all thriller lovers'' *****''A fast-paced, addictive novel'' LISA BALLANTYNE, author of The Guilty One''Kept me up way past my bedtime. I loved every dark and twisted page'' ***** ***SOON TO BE A MAJOR TV SERIES*** _______________ Two women are watching each other. Phoebe isn''t sure when the car started showing up. At first she put it down to the scandal around her late father, but sTrade ReviewA fast-paced, addictive novel with a frightening premise but surprising humour throughout, which together make this a thoroughly enjoyable read. -- Lisa Ballantyne * bestselling author of The Guilty One *Chock-full of tangled twists and domestic treachery, The Other Mrs Miller will take your breath away and not give it back until the very last page. I devoured this book. -- Christina Dalcher * author of Vox *A twisty suspense novel that will keep you guessing until its final pages * The Herald *I absolutely loved it and practically threw the book across the room when I read that twist. I did not see THAT coming!! -- Heidi Perks * bestselling author of Now You See Her *Expect secrets, lies, and maybe a murder or two in this fast-moving, twisty psychological thriller that's made for demolishing in the back garden or by the pool * Heat *Deliciously devious, I got caught up in the twists and tangles between these women, desperate to unravel them through the very last page. -- Chandler Baker * author of Whisper Network *A splash of wine, a dollop of murder, a pinch of betrayal - the recipe for a thrilling page-turner! -- Gina LaManna * author of Pretty Guilty Women *A wonderfully twisty suspense novel that hooked me from the start and had me guessing until the very end. A fantastic debut. -- Lisa Lutz * New York Times bestselling author *Darkly funny and deeply chilling, Allison Dickson's The Other Mrs. Miller is a summer sensation filled with twists. You won't be able to put this one down. -- Kaira Rouda * USA TODAY bestselling author of Best Day Ever and The Favourite Daughter *Stunning... As disconcerting as it is unexpected * Publishers Weekly *Dickson's debut novel swoops and swirls through startling plot twists and multiple perspectives... A Hitchcock-ian thriller from a new voice worth noting. * Kirkus review *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA chilling story of hidden evil, The Third Twin is a heart-stopping, spine-tingling novel from master storyteller and author of Never, Ken Follett.An Impossible ResultJeannie Ferrami, a scientific researcher investigating the behaviour of identical twins who have been raised separately, uncovers a perplexing mystery: identical twins who were born on different days, to different mothers, in different places. A Blossoming Love One of the twins, Steve, is a law student. The other, Dennis, is a convicted murderer. Jeannie works with Steve on her research project and finds herself falling in love with him – but their world is shattered when he is accused of a monstrous crime. A Terrible SecretJeannie cannot believe that Steve is guilty, but to prove it she will be forced to question everything she believes. And, as she digs deeper, she uncovers a terrifying conspiracy – one which the plotters will kill to keep hidden.Trade ReviewA provocative, well-paced, and sensational biotech thriller’ * Variety *Follett infuses the book with an irresistible energy’ * People *A high-tech read about genetic engineering, with emotional depth * Daily Telegraph *

Read more less

Book Synopsis'A new Simon Brett is an event for mystery fans' P. D. JAMES'King of the witty village mystery' Daily Telegraph'Perfect entertainment' GuardianFethering has everything a sleepy coastal town should: a snug English pub, cosy cottages, a little local library - and the occasional murder . . .Bestselling author Burton St Clair, complete with soaring ego and wandering hands, has come to town to give a talk. But after his corpse is found slumped in his car, he won't be leaving. Jude is the prime suspect; she was, after all, the last person to see Burton St Clair alive. If she is to prove her innocence, she will have to dust off her detective skills and recruit her prim and proper neighbour (and partner-in-sleuthing) Carole to find the real culprit.Trade ReviewA new Simon Brett is an event for mystery fans -- P. D. JAMESKing of the witty village mystery * * Daily Telegraph * *Crime writing just like in the good old days, and perfect entertainment * * Guardian * *Few crime writers are so enchantingly gifted... as Simon Brett * * Sunday Times * *Simon Brett writes the kind of good whodunits that could have been written fifty years ago . . . and he has a sly sense of humour * * The Times * *One of the wittiest crime writers around -- ANTONIA FRASEROne of the exceptional detective story writers around * * Telegraph * *Murder most enjoyable . . . An author who never takes himself that seriously, and for whom any fictional murder can frequently form part of the entertainment industry -- COLIN DEXTERDeftly contrived, light-hearted mysteries * * The Times * *

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Greenwood''s strength lies in her ability to create characters that are wholly satisfying: the bad guys are bad, and the good guys are great'' Vogue1929: Girls are going missing in Melbourne. Little, pretty golden-haired girls. And not just pretty. Three of them are pregnant, poor girls from the harsh confines of the Magdalene Laundry. People are getting nervous.Polly Kettle, a pushy, self-important Girl Reporter with ambition and no sense of self-preservation, decides to investigate - and promptly goes missing herself. It''s time for Phryne and Dot to put a stop to this and find Polly Kettle before something quite irreparable happens to all of them. It''s all piracy and dark cellars, convents and plots, murder and mystery . . . and Phryne finally finds out if it''s true that blondes have more fun.Praise for Kerry Greenwood: ''Elegant, fabulously wealthy and sharp as a tack, Phryne sleuths with customary panache... [she is] i

Read more less

Book Synopsis''While Oxford had Morse, Whitstable, famous for its oysters, has Pearl'' Daily MailStrictly Murder is the eighth book in Julie Wassmer''s popular crime series - now a major Acorn TV drama, Whitstable Pearl, starring Kerry Godliman as private detective and restaurateur, Pearl Nolan It really is murder on the dance floor. . . A new dance school opens in Whitstable run by celebrity tango champions - Tony and Tanya Ballard. Pearl Nolan knows herself to be an ace cook and a sharp private eye but has always left the dancing to her mother, Dolly. But Pearl becomes intrigued by the Ballards when they visit The Whitstable Pearl restaurant, and she realises that dance classes could provide the perfect cover for her clandestine relationship with DCI Mike McGuire... McGuire is the only man Pearl has ever considered partnering - and not just for tango - but the pair soon find themselves with more than steps to ma

Read more less

Book SynopsisNow a major film on Netflix starring Amy Adams, Gary Oldman and Julianne MooreOVER 5 MILLION COPIES SOLD!THE NUMBER ONE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERAstounding. Thrilling. Amazing' Gillian FlynnOne of those rare books that really is unputdownable' Stephen King''Twisted to the power of max'' Val McDermidA dark, twisty confection' Ruth WareWhat did she see?It's been ten months since Anna Fox last left her home. Ten months during which she has haunted the rooms of her old New York house, lost in her memories, too terrified to step outside.Anna's lifeline to the real world is her window, where she sits, watching her neighbours. When the Russells move in, Anna is instantly drawn to them. A picture-perfect family, they are an echo of the life that was once hers.But one evening, a scream rips across the silence, and Anna witnesses something horrifying. Now she must uncover the truth about what really happened. But if she does, will anyone believe her? And can she even trust herself?Trade Review‘Astounding. Thrilling. Lovely and amazing’ GILLIAN FLYNN 'Twisted to the power of max' VAL McDERMID ‘A dark, twisty confection’ RUTH WARE ‘One of those rare books that really is unputdownable’ STEPHEN KING ‘A tremendous new talent’ JANE HARPER ‘Amazing. Riveting. Just plain fantastic!’ TESS GERRITSEN ‘Smart, heart-wrenching—and really scary’ NICCI FRENCH ‘An elegant, beautifully written thriller’ JOANNA CANNON ‘Dense, brilliant and unforgettable’ JENNY COLGAN ‘I barely drew breath until I turned the final page’ LIZ NUGENT ‘Tense, twisty and SO beautifully written’ C.J. TUDOR ‘I was blown away’ JOE HILL ‘Dripping with suspense. Creaking with menace. Beautifully written’ SIMON TOYNE

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Frances Brody has made it to the top rank of crime writers'' Daily MailA theatre partyYorkshire, 1927. Eclipse fever grips the nation, and when beloved theatre star Selina Fellini approaches trusted sleuth Kate Shackleton to accompany her to a viewing party at Giggleswick School Chapel, Kate suspects an ulterior motive.A dead body discoveredDuring the eclipse, Selina''s friend and co-star Billy Moffatt disappears and is later found dead in the chapel grounds. Kate can''t help but dig deeper and soon learns that two other members of the theatre troupe died in similarly mysterious circumstances in the past year. With the help of Jim Sykes and Mrs Sugden, Kate sets about investigating the deaths - and whether there is a murderer in the company.An elusive killer must be caughtWhen Selina''s elusive husband Jarrod, injured in the war and subject to violent mood swings, comes back on the scene, Kate beginTrade ReviewAn old-fashioned, good-fun murder mystery, making excellent use of its setting in variety theatre's fading years * Morning Star *an old-fashioned, good-fun murder mystery, making excellent use of its setting in variety theatre's fading years * Morning Star *The author keeps us highly-entertained with an interesting and exciting plot, impeccably researched and a style of writing that has the reader turning the pages eagerly to discover the truth of the mystery. Francis Brody is fast becoming "the queen of light crime fiction" * Gazette Herald *The author keeps us highly-entertained with an interesting and exciting plot, impeccably researched and a style of writing that has the reader turning the pages eagerly to discover the truth of the mystery. Francis Brody is fast becoming "the queen of light crime fiction" * Gazette Herald *Frances Brody matches a heroine of free and independent spirit with a vivid evocation of time and place . . . a novel to cherish. * Daily Mail *Frances Brody skilfully holds our attention, making us want to read on and then look forward to the next Kate Shackleton mystery. * Gazette & Herald *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe latest in the nationally bestselling 'edge-of-your-seat' (Book Riot) Hayley Chill series.  WHEN JUSTICE FALLSNO ONE IS SAFE An associate justice of the Supreme Court is dead, killed by the very police officer assigned to protect him. As shockwaves ripple through the country, Hayley Chill’s superiors suspect the assassination is only one part of a major conspiracy.   When a busload of children is taken hostage in Maui, and a vacationing justice’s death is demanded as ransom, Hayley leaps into action. Together with a deputy US marshal, she embarks on the monumental task of rescuing the children while also protecting the justice. But with danger around every corner and no one to trust, has she finally bitten off more than she can chew?A tense, twisty political thriller, perfect for fans of Gregg Hurwitz and Terry Hayes.   Praise f

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Special Dead is the thrilling tenth book in Lin Anderson's forensic crime series featuring Rhona MacLeod.When Mark is invited back to Leila's flat and ordered to strip, he thinks he's about to have the experience of his life. Waking later he finds Leila gone from his side. Keen to leave, he opens the wrong door and finds he's entered a nightmare; behind the swaying Barbie dolls that hang from the ceiling is the body of the girl he just had sex with.Rhona MacLeod's forensic investigation of the scene reveals the red plaited silk cord used to hang Leila to be a cingulum, a Wiccan artefact used in sex magick. Sketches of sexual partners hidden in the dolls provide a link to nine powerful men, but who are they? As the investigation continues, it looks increasingly likely that other witches will be targeted too.Working the investigation is the newly demoted DS Michael McNab, who is keen to stay sober and redeem himself with Rhona, but an encounter with Leila's colleague and fellow Wiccan Freya Devine threatens his resolve. Soon McNab realizes Freya may hold the key to identifying the men linked to the dolls, but the Nine will do anything to keep their identities a secret.Follow Rhona MacLeod in more forensic thrillers with None but the Dead, Follow the Dead, Sins of the Dead and Time for the Dead.Trade ReviewLin Anderson is one of Scotland's natural treasures - don't be fooled by comparisons, her writing is unique, bringing warmth and depth to even the seediest parts of Glasgow. Lin's Rhona MacLeod is a complex and compelling heroine who just gets better with every outing -- Stuart MacBrideAnderson clearly knows what her readers want and how to keep them coming back for more * The Sunday Herald *The Special Dead is the tenth in Lin Anderson's series featuring her forensic scientist, Rhona MacLeod and it is everything that we have come to expect from this highly talented author * Eurocrime *This unusual police procedural series has been running for more than a decade but shows no signs of flagging, with its solid plotting and recurring characters who are worth getting to know * Morning Star *Lin Anderson crafts her prime characters beautifully. They are as warm blooded and fragile, or as fierce and angry, as well known friends * Bookpostmortem.wordpress.com *I was gripped from the first chapter * Bestcrimebooksandmore.co.uk *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA glamorous ship. A missing woman. A holiday to DIE forThe gripping new thriller from the Sunday Times bestseller!A brilliant new storyteller has arrived' ERIN KELLYIntense and claustrophobic' HEATAgatha Christie with glamour' SUNDAY TIMESA glamorous shipDuring a New Year's Eve party on a large, luxurious cruise ship in the Caribbean, the ship's dancer, Lola, goes missing.Everyone on board has something to hideTwo weeks later, the ship is out of service, laid up far from land with no more than a skeleton crew on board. And then more people start disappearingNo one is safeWhy are the crew being harmed? Who is responsible? And who will be next?Find out in the twisty new thriller from the queen of glamorous crime, Catherine Cooper.A well-plotted twisty read from the destination thriller author' WOMAN'S WEEKLYPRAISE FOR CATHERINE COOPER:A brilliant book with a twist you won't see coming' BELLAA great, pacy read fans of Lucy Foley will love' FABULOUSAtmospheric and suspenseful' WOMAN'S WEEKTrade Review PRAISE FOR THE CRUISE: ‘This is so, so good! … With a cast of dubious characters, this had me gripped throughout’ Prima ‘Tense and enjoyable’ The Belfast Telegraph ‘I enjoyed it very much- unexpected and very dark with a twist I didn't see coming. I especially liked that ending.’ Jane Shemilt ‘Twist-tastic! Clever and addictive, with original and authentic characters who surprised me at every turn.’ Emma Christie ‘Catherine has created a sparkling, suspenseful novel that transported me to the beautiful turquoise waters of the Caribbean as well as to remote parts of the Scottish Highlands. I raced through this novel at a rate of knots!’ Diane Jeffries ‘Glamour, murder and intrigue on a luxury cruise ship. Kept me guessing right to the end.’ Emma Haughton ‘An unusual setting and great characters makes this thriller a compulsive read. The dual narrative cleverly comes together in a very satisfying – and shocking – finale. Highly recommended!’ Robert J Lloyd ‘The Cruise is a novel of luxury and secrets, of tension and betrayal. Catherine packs an emotional punch in her writing. I love a protagonist that isn’t what they first seem..’ L.V. Matthews, author of The Twins ‘The Cruise is another fast-paced thriller from Catherine Cooper, full of unexpected twists and high seas drama! With a memorable cast of characters you really care about and a most luxurious (and deadly) setting, Catherine keeps you guessing until the very end.’ Amy McCulloch, author of Breathless ‘Glamour, murder and intrigue on a luxury cruise ship. Kept me guessing right to the end.’ Emma Haughton, author of The Dark

Read more less

Book SynopsisJacqueline Winspear is the author of the New York Times bestsellers A Sunlit Weapon, The Consequences of Fear, The American Agent, To Die but Once and In This Grave Hour, as well as twelve other bestselling novels in the award-winning Maisie Dobbs' series. Her WW1 novel, The Care and Management of Lies, was a Dayton Literary Peace Prize finalist. Jacqueline has also published two non-fiction books, What Would Maisie Do? and an Edgar-nominated memoir, This Time Next Year We'll Be Laughing. Originally from the United Kingdom, Winspear now divides her time between California and the Pacific Northwest.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA murder victim with celebrity connections spells trouble for DI Clare Mackay...Gaby Fox is known to many due to her successful TV career, so when her brother and his pals hire the salubrious Lamond Lodge for his birthday celebrations, it is noted by the St Andrews locals. A ripple of shock goes round the town when Russell Fox is gunned down on the premises. DI Clare Mackay is attending a wedding when she sees Gabrielle receive a phone call then flee. Soon after, Clare learns why when the news of the shooting reaches her. Instead of trying to enjoy the day – not easy when the groom is her ex-boyfriend – Clare is preoccupied. Clare gets to work on uncovering the facts surrounding Russell Fox’s death. The guests at the lodge have secrets to hide, but even when Clare begins to unravel the deceit, it doesn’t bring the answers. The detective can’t help but wonder why no one who knew Russell seems capable of telling the truth, and whether there is more than one person with a reason to want him dead…A thrilling addition to the much-loved and bestselling detective fiction series from a rising star in Scottish crime fiction. Ideal for fans of Alex Gray, D. K. Hood and Rachel Amphlett.Readers are loving Next in Line 'A satisfying Scotch mystery.' The Times Crime Club Pick of the Week'A fifth outing for agreeable Scottish detective DI Clare Mackay proves Dundee-based Todd is becoming a master of the Tartan Noir genre.' Daily Mail 'The latest in this series from the brilliant Marion Todd is just as nail-biting and tense as her fans have come to expect. A police procedural with lashings of thrills and kills, along with plenty of good humour.' The Sun 'A thrilling addition to the much-loved and best-selling series from a rising star in Scottish crime fiction.' Scots Magazine'An excellent addition to an extremely good series of police procedural novels and comes highly recommended.' NetGalley Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'I love Marion Todd's novels and this doesn't disappoint.' NetGalley Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Marion has yet again come up with a top notch police procedural thriller. I enjoyed meeting DI Mackay again. She is an excellent detective who is always completely immersed in her case.' NetGalley Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Read more less

Book SynopsisAndrea Mara is a No.1 Sunday Times, Irish Times and Kindle bestselling author. Her books have sold more than 500,000 copies worldwide, and four of them have been shortlisted for Irish Crime Novel of the Year. No One Saw a Thing, was a Richard and Judy Bookclub Pick, sold more than 100,000 copies in thirteen weeks, and was No.1 in the UK, Irish and Kindle charts. She lives in Dublin, Ireland, with her husband and three children. You can find Andrea on Instagram @andreamaraauthorTrade Review'Next-level domestic suspense - even the twists have twists. I loved it - Andrea Mara is a star.' * Lee Child *'I loved Hide and Seek by Andrea Mara! Original, clever, and unputdownable, it ticks every crime thriller box for me and then some! I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out what happened next as the gripping, clever plot twists and turns its way to a dramatic denouement. Andrea is an author to watch and I can't wait to read her next.' * Sarah Pearse *'I raced through this at high speed, enjoying the ride through Andrea's twists and turns.' * Observer *'A relentless, twisting page-turner, Hide and Seek delves deeply into every parent's worst nightmare. A first-class thriller.' * Chris Whitaker *'Mara knows how to take every parent's worst nightmares and turn them into top-class page turners. She expertly ratchets up the tension in this single-sitting read, a nerve-shredder that will have you guessing right until the final unexpected twist.' * Ellery Lloyd, New York Times bestselling author of The Club *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe fourth book in Marsali Taylor''s thrilling Shetland Sailing Mysteries series. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, Val McDermid, Faith Martin, J.R. Ellis, LJ Ross and Ann Cleeves!''This series is a must-read for anyone who loves the sea, or islands, or joyous, intricate story-telling.'' ANN CLEEVESSailing skipper and amateur detective Cass Lynch has been persuaded to spend a quiet Christmas in the Highlands with her former adversary, DI Gavin Macrae, but neither of them can dodge trouble for long. Their peaceful walk by the loch is interrupted when they discover a skeleton among the bracken. Back home in Shetland, Cass is drawn to the case of Ivor Hughson, who left his wife and failed business months ago and hasn''t been heard of since. As she continues to ask questions about Hughson''s disappearance, it becomes clear that someone will stop at nothing to cut Cass''s investigation - an

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE THRILLING NEW MYSTERY FROM THE AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR OF MIDNIGHT AT MALABAR HOUSE'A delightful book, well-researched, complex and hugely entertaining' ANN CLEEVES'A twisting plot and an intriguing cast of characters, together with vivid glimpses of the vibrant, complex world of post-Independence Bombay - and a narrative that thunders along with the pace and drama of an elephant on the rampage' ANDREW TAYLORBombay, 1950When the body of a white man is found frozen in the Himalayan foothills near Dehra Dun, he is christened the Ice Man by the national media. Who is he? How long has he been there? Why was he killed?As Inspector Persis Wadia and Metropolitan Police criminalist Archie Blackfinch investigate the case in Bombay, they uncover a trail left behind by the enigmatic Ice Man - a trail leading directly into the dark heart of conspiracy.Meanwhile, two new murders grip the city. Is there a serial killer on the loose, targeting Europeans? Rich in atmosphere, the thrilling third chapter in the CWA Historical Dagger-winning Malabar House series pits Persis against a mystery from beyond the grave, unfolding against the backdrop of a turbulent post-colonial India, a nation struggling to redefine itself in the shadow of the Raj.'A stunning, richly imagined and downright thrilling mystery. Vaseem Khan has that rare ability to transport you wholly to a bygone time, and he does so with such skill and charm. I loved it' CHRIS WHITAKER'A compelling historical thriller ... Codes, crime and conspiracies collide in post-colonial India' D.V. BISHOP'One of my top reads this year. A peerless portrait of early independent India through the eyes of new crime fiction star, India's first police detective, Persis Wadia' BARBARA NADEL"The brilliant Persis Wadia is one of the most electrifying figures in crime fiction today. Vaseem Khan keeps getting better and better' WILLIAM SHAW'Outstanding' IMRAN MAHMOOD'This is historical crime fiction at its best - a compelling mix of social insight and complex plotting with a thoroughly engaging heroine. A highly promising new series' MAIL ON SUNDAY'This is historical crime fiction at its sharpest' SUNDAY TIMES'The Lost Man of Bombay is the latest outstanding entry in the Malabar House series. Persis Wadia is shaping up to be a giant of the scene - a detective as dogged and determined as any out there, with a point to prove and a chip on her shoulder as deep as it is justified. Her latest case is as beautifully written and evocative as you've come to expect from Vaseem Khan, a gripping and engrossing mystery that draws deeply on its setting and time period but nonetheless reads as fresh and original. This is a writer at the top of his game and a series that just keeps getting better' ROD REYNOLDSTrade ReviewHard, realistic and fascinatingly hard to decipher. Persis is a terrific character * On Magazine *Vaseem Khan's friction-free ascent to pole position in historical crime is consolidated by The Lost Man of Bombay. Much to relish here * Financial Times *What should you expect from a good historical mystery? Well, a decent mystery, obviously, and interesting characters to guide you through the plot, plus some inside knowledge of a place or period in history you are unfamiliar with. The Lost Man of Bombay by Vaseem Khan ticks all those boxes, and probably more, with ease * SHOTS *The hugely entertaining result is not unlike an India(na) Jones adventure: history and mystery mixed with brutal slapstick, thwarted romance and sly humour . . . Malabar House is a subcontinental version of Mick Herron's Slough House . . . If only all period procedurals were as good as this * The Times *Khan writes with a charming formality and brings his characters and their dilemmas to life in this intelligent and intriguing series * Literary Review *British writer Vaseem Khan has shown quite comprehensively that he can write historical crime fiction well * Asian Media Group *The latest of Khan's excellent thrillers set in post-war Bombay is a vivid portrait of a society remaking itself in the new era of independence * Mail on Sunday *A brilliant whodunnit mingling fascinating history, the flavours of India and a Himalayan blizzard of clues * The Sun *Vaseem Khan doesn't only spin a fast-moving, well-plotted story; he deftly illuminates the religious rivalries that beset post-colonial India. Think Mick Herron in Bombay: inventive characterisation made laugh-aloud funny by Maya Saroya's pacey, often caustic narration * The Times, Audiobook of the Week *Vivid, bracing crime writing married to a picture of a country seeking its post Raj identity * Financial Times, Books of the Year 2022 *Vaseem Khan's excellent series set in post-partition India * Guardian, Best Crime & Thrillers of 2022 *Written with wit and heart, it's wonderfully entertaining * Daily Express, Books of the Year *His excellent Malabar House series * The Critic *The best historical thriller of the year * Daily Express *If only all period procedurals were as good as this * The Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe eagerly awaited next case for DI Karen Eiken Hornby from the global bestselling author, Maria Adolfsson. Perfect for fans of Shetland, Broadchurch and Ann Cleeves.A secluded island. A missing woman. An impossible choice.Detective Inspector Karen Eiken Hornby is not the only person to have returned to her native island nation, Doggerland, after years abroad. Following a ten-year hiatus, Luna has chosen to secretly record her comeback album where she was born and raised. Spirits are high among her team at the wrap party, though Karen is less than impressed with the simpering singer. The next morning, Luna is nowhere to be found.Nothing goes unnoticed in the tight-knit community - certainly not the arrival, or disappearance, of a world-famous singer. So, while the rest of the force is frantically searching for a suspect whose brutal attacks on women are increasing in intensity and frequency, a reluctant Karen is tasked with discreetly looking into Luna's whereabouts.As time ebbs away so does the possibility of finding Luna alive, while Karen faces seemingly impossible choices, ones that could spell life or death, both for herself and others.Trade ReviewThis first novel in a proposed trilogy has terrific characters as well as effectively inventing a new genre, Anglo-Nordic noir -- Joan Smith * Sunday Times on Fatal Isles *A cracking police procedural set in a richly described isolated island community * Irish Independent on Fatal Isles *An excellent police procedural - she does detail brilliantly - but also really thrilling. I love books that send me somewhere completely new and I really enjoyed Doggerland. She captured it perfectly, and held me there for the whole thing * Jo Spain on Fatal Isles *Karen Eiken reminds me a bit of Jane Tennison: a strong, feminine and dedicated woman confronted by sexism within the police force while doing her job. At the same time striving not to be eaten up by the pressure of duties, struggling to quit smoking and not drinking too much. The island is a cool setting too, a bit Shetland-like . . . a good debut * Kjell Ola Dahl on Fatal Isles *A suspenseful and intriguing story that combines the best of British crime writing tradition with Nordic noir. Doggerland is a unique and alluring universe that I can't wait to revisit * Camilla Grebe on Fatal Isles *Fatal Isles has everything I want from nordic noir - a spellbinding plot, atmospheric setting and a wonderfully flawed protagonist. I loved it * Sarah Ward on Fatal Isles *Fatal Isles is an impressive debut combining an empathetic main character tormented by her past, with a detailed, complex police procedural. Adolfsson's main achievement, however, is Doggerland, a believable island nation where everyone knows everyone else and the mistrust of outsiders runs deep * Canberra Times on Fatal Isles *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis* OVER TWO MILLION COPIES SOLD * * THE NO.1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * * THE RICHARD & JUDY BOOK CLUB PICK * * THE REESE WITHERSPOON BOOK CLUB PICK * _______________________________________ * NOW A MAJOR TV SERIES ON APPLE TV+ STARRING JENNIFER GARNER * 'The ultimate page turner' - REESE WITHERSPOON 'Powerful, intense and beautifully observed' - T.M. LOGAN 'A brilliant thriller' - JANE CASEY IT WAS THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME: PROTECT HER Before Owen Michaels disappears, he manages to smuggle a note to his new wife, Hannah: protect her. Hannah knows exactly who Owen needs her to protect - his teenage daughter, Bailey, who lost her mother tragically as a child. And who wants absolutely nothing to do with her new stepmother. As her desperate calls to Owen go unanswered, his boss is arrested for fraud and the police start questioning her, Hannah realises that her husband isn't who he said he was. And that Bailey might hold the key to discovering Owen's true identity, and why he disappeared. Together they set out to discover the truth. But as they start putting together the pieces of Owen's past, they soon realise that their lives will never be the same again... Now a major Apple TV+ series starring Jennifer Garner and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, discover the book that everyone is talking about...Trade ReviewLaura Dave is a master storyteller. Gripping, big-hearted and twisty, The Last Thing He Told Me grabs readers from the very first page and never lets go -- Greer Hendricks, bestselling co-author of THE WIFE BETWEEN USA massive page-turner, really gripping. I raced through it -- Laura Marshall, bestselling author of THREE LITTLE LIESThe ultimate page turner. There's so much to love about this roller coaster of a novel -- Reese WitherspoonPowerful, intense and beautifully observed. A thriller with real heart -- T.M. Logan, bestselling author of THE HOLIDAYA brilliant thriller. Totally compelling, superbly crafted and unpredictable in the best way -- Jane Casey, author of THE CUTTING PLACEA must-read for fans of Little Fires Everywhere and Big Little Lies * You Magazine *Just the sort of gripping read you need for summer evenings * Belfast Telegraph *This gripping thriller is perfect TV-drama fodder and Reese Witherspoon's production company is making the miniseries. When Hannah's husband vanishes, leaving behind a note and bag of cash, she sets about unravelling the mystery, helped by her stepdaughter Bailey, who is equally as in the dark. Or is she? I steamed through it in one read * Stella *Clever, compulsive and twisty as hell. Cancel all your plans before you start this one, I had to remind myself to breathe during the final, devastating pages -- Chris Whitaker, author of WE BEGIN AT THE ENDI loved The Last Thing He Told Me - a gripping, twisty read which examines loyalty, motherhood and betrayal -- Sarah J. Harris, bestselling author of THE COLOUR OF BEE LARKHAM'S MURDER

Read more less

Book Synopsis This new mini hardback edition completes the series of collectable Miss Marple hardbacks – the first time all 14 Marple books have had their own uniform hardback series. Trade Review‘Without a doubt, the greatest mystery writer of all time’ – Ragnar Jonasson ‘A hundred years after her first novel, and we are all still standing in her shadow’ – Andrew Taylor ‘She gives us an insight into human nature that few, if any, have surpassed’ – Susan Lewis ‘Dame Agatha has sold more books than all besides Shakespeare and the Bible’ – David Baldacci ‘All crime fiction writers around the globe owe Agatha Christie a massive debt’ – Peter James ‘Reading a perfectly plotted Agatha Christie is like crunching into a perfect apple: that pure, crisp, absolute satisfaction.’ – Tana French

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn unpaid bar bill leads Flavia Albia to her most bitter and complex case yet. Decades earlier Appius Tranquillus Surus wrote his will: it freed his slaves and bequeathed his businesses to them. He left an orchard to the Prisci, a family he was friendly with, on the condition that his freedmen could still take its harvest. The convoluted arrangement has led to a feud between the two families, each of which has its own internal strife. Endless claims and counterclaims lead to violence and even death. Lawyers have given up in exasperation as the case limps on. The original will has disappeared, along with a falsified codicil - and might there be another one? But is there a solution? Two youngsters from each side of the divide, Gaius Venuleius and Cosca Sabatina, have fallen in love, which could unite the feuding families. There is only one problem: were Sabatina's grandmother and father really liberated in the Surus will? If not, the stigma of slavery will stop the marriage and the dispute will rage on forever. Reconciliation seems impossible, but Albia will try. Her investigation must cut through decades of secrets, arguments, lies and violence to reach a startling truth. Praise for Lindsey Davis and the Flavia Albia series 'It positively crackles with knowledge of the city and its people, mixed with social comment, ingenious and bloody plots and sharp observational skills leavened by more than a smattering of genuine and sometimes earthy humour' Crime Review 'Fiendishly twisted mystery' Mail on Sunday 'Great fun, shot through with sharp observations' SHOTS 'In this witty novel by the mistress of Roman crime, the reader is transported behind the scenes of a Triumph into a fascinating world of actors, costumiers and animal trainers, all united in their hatred of the murdered man' Sunday Express MagazineTrade ReviewAll teeming Roman life is here with its smells, entrenched snobbery . . . and superstitions described by a wise-cracking heroine. A feast, to be savoured with a cup, or two, of violet wine * Shotsmag *another Roman riot of fun * Peterborough Telegraph *All teeming Roman life is here with its smells, entrenched snobbery . . . and superstitions described by a wise-cracking heroine. A feast, to be savoured with a cup, or two, of violet wine * Shotsmag *another Roman riot of fun * Peterborough Telegraph *

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Wow, what a read! Great plot and characters. Everything you want in a mystery. This series gets better with every book'' NetGalley reviewer, ?????When a body is found at the Merrywell Book Festival, amateur sleuth Violet Brewster must leave no page unturned to solve the mysteryThe small and idyllic village of Merrywell is getting ready to host its first ever book festival, and Violet Brewster is delighted when she is asked to interview the star author.Leonie Stanwick, now a bestselling romance author, is the featured guest of the festival. She was born in Merrywell, but abruptly left when she was 18 years old and never came back.But the festival takes a dark turn when Leonie is found murdered; her return to the village had clearly shaken someone up. When a shocking secret about Leonie's past is revealed, Violet's suspicions must turn to her own neighbours. Who in the village was intent on making sure Leonie could never leave the village again?An utterly gripping and unputdownable Eng

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe thrilling new novella in the globally bestselling series plus two gripping new stories from the master of suspense. 23 ½ LiesWhen SFPD Sergeant Lindsay Boxer is called to investigate a crime scene, nothing can prepare her for what she finds: her estranged father gunned down execution style. The case will soon reveal to Lindsay a series life-altering truths . . .Fallen RangerA series of armed robberies are linked to a gang of motorcycle bandits. Rory Yates, the hero of Texas Ranger, is tasked with hunting them down.Watch Your BackA starving artist is paid to expose his client's cheating wife. But no amount of money can protect him from a world of corruption . . ._____________________________Praise for James Patterson'The master storyteller of our times' Hillary Rodham Clinton'James Patterson is the gold standard by which all others are judged' Steve Berry'No one gets this big without natural storytelling talent' Lee Child'Nobody does it better' Jeffrey Deaver'James Patterson is The Boss. End of.' Ian Rankin

Read more less

Book SynopsisONE OF THE GUARDIAN'S BEST CRIME/THRILLERS OF 2023**DON'T MISS CASSIE RAVEN'S NEWEST MYSTERY, DEAD FALL, AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER NOW!**'I LOVE THIS SERIES!' ELLY GRIFFITHS'TIMELY, GRITTY AND DARK' PAULA HAWKINS'THIS SERIES IS NOT TO BE MISSED' THE GUARDIANWhen the dead are silent, she will be their voice . . .Goth-girl mortuary technician Cassie Raven has seen thousands of dead bodies but when a drowned man knocks against the hull of her canalboat, it's a bit too close to home.Cassie is grappling with the loss of her 'gift' - her conviction that she could sense the last thoughts of the dead - and at first the mystery man with the golden-green eyes isn't sharing his secrets.But the case gets under her skin and when Cassie joins forces with Detective Phyllida Flyte, together they start to dredge up secrets from the past . . .Yet someone is watching, someone who's ready to kill to stop those secrets coming to the surface.FEATURED IN HEAT MAGAZINE, THE SUNDAY TIMES AND THE GUARDIAN.PRAISE FOR THE CASSIE RAVEN SERIES:'Spellbinding storytelling' Val McDermid'Like Silent Witness but more believable' Susi Holliday 'Blackly humorous, with a fabulously one-of-a-kind protagonist' Heat Magazine'Ingenious and sardonically written' Financial Times'[A] gritty novel with an engaging heroine' Sunday Times'A terrific, well-placed plot' Spectator'Cassie Raven is a lot of fun to spend time with' Big Issue'Excellent fun, compulsive and Cassie Raven is a protagonist I want to meet again soon' James Oswald'Cassie Raven is a blast of fresh air, striding onto the crime scene like a punk superstar' Sarah Hilary'Move over Silent Witness - Cassie Raven is an utterly compelling contemporary forensic heroine' Isabelle Grey'A fresh and exciting new series' Claire McGowan'One of the best series openers I've read in years' Jane CaseyTrade ReviewI love this series! * Elly Griffiths *Timely, gritty and dark * Paula Hawkins, author of The Girl on the Train *Expertly plotted and well researched, with an appealing central character and a strong supporting cast, this series is not to be missed * The Guardian *Could hardly be more topical ... Turner's heroine displays an appealing mixture of attitude and vulnerability -- Joan Smith * Sunday Times *A. K. Turner spins science into spellbinding storytelling * Val McDermid on Body Language *A first-rate crime novel. Mortuary assistant Cassie is a terrific character - our guide through a fascinating, darkly humorous and sometimes grisly world. I loved it * Elly Griffiths on Body Language *Turner's experience shows in this gritty novel with an engaging heroine * Sunday Times on Body Language *Introduces us to a fabulously one-of-a-kind protagonist. Blackly humorous, we're so ready for more * HEAT Magazine on Body Language *Move over Silent Witness - Cassie Raven is an utterly compelling contemporary forensic heroine * Isabelle Grey on Body Language *A stellar example of the forensic-medical crime genre. Impeccably researched, with fascinating insights and a truly memorable, original heroine, this is one of the best series openers I've read in years * Jane Casey on Body Language *What a start to a new series, full of verve and acutely perceptive on grief and human relationships. Cassie Raven is a blast of fresh air, striding onto the crime scene like a punk superstar, ready to shake things up * Sarah Hilary on Body Language *Had the pleasure of reading this little beauty by AK Turner and I loved it. It was awesome! Dark humour and gore galore - Cassie Raven is my new favourite character. The mortuary scenes were so vivid - it was like Silent Witness but much more believable * Susi Holliday on Body Language *Ingenious and sardonically written...this is authoritative crime fare -- Barry Forshaw * Financial Times on Body Language *A terrific, well-paced plot and the tight focus on the mortuary setting works really well to ground the action...[Turner] is adept at creating memorable characters * The Spectator on Body Language *The writing is classy and accessible. The plot just zips along at a good pace...The characterisation is great too... it's got off to a cracking start and I can't wait for the next book in the series * The Bookbag on Body Language *Terrific central character of Cassie Raven...beautifully rounded and believable...a complex young woman who is nevertheless a lot of fun to spend time with. Turner also deals with the sensitive subjects of death and grief with real empathy and respect * The Big Issue on Body Language *A cracking read. When's the next one out? * Woman's Way on Body Language *Hooked from the first chapter ... Excellent fun, compulsive ... Five stars! * James Oswald on Body Language *An immersive world with a fascinating lead, this makes for a fresh and exciting new series * Claire McGowan on Body Language *

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Crime writing at its unputdownable, nerve-tingling best' HARLAN COBENTHE VICTIMSIn Boston, Detective Jane Rizzoli and Forensic Pathologist Maura Isles investigate a bizarre murder. A man has been found gutted and hanging in his home. When the remains of another victim are found, it is clear that this murderer has been at work for years, and not just in Boston.THE KILLERFive years ago, a group of travellers set off on an African safari. None of them was seen again – apart from one woman who stumbled out of the bush weeks later, barely alive. The only woman to have seen the killer’s face.THE SURVIVOR Has the ‘safari killer’ resurfaced in Boston? Jane is sent to Africa to find the one link between the two cases – the only survivor. And convince her to face death once again...

Read more less

Book SynopsisIcelandic detective Elma faces mortal danger as she investigates the death of a young man in a mysterious Akranes house fire, and a Dutch au pair’s perfect placement turns deadly … The breathtaking third instalment in the award-winning Forbidden Iceland series. ***WINNER of the CWA John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger*** ‘Her best, boldest work to date: a mystery both merciless and compassionate, subtly eerie yet flat-out frightening, featuring a detective as complicated as Jo Nesbø’s Harry Hole. This is virtuoso suspense writing’ A J Finn ‘Chilling and addictive, with a completely unexpected twist … I loved it’ Shari Lapena ‘Another beautifully written novel from one of the rising stars of Nordic Noir’ Victoria Selman _________________________ The small community of Akranes is devastated when a young man dies in a mysterious house fire, and when Detective Elma and her colleagues from West Iceland CID discover the fire was arson, they become embroiled in an increasingly perplexing case involving multiple suspects. What’s more, the dead man’s final online search raises fears that they could be investigating not one murder, but two. A few months before the fire, a young Dutch woman takes a job as an au pair in Iceland, desperate to make a new life for herself after the death of her father. But the seemingly perfect family who employs her turns out to have problems of its own and she soon discovers she is running out of people to turn to. As the police begin to home in on the truth, Elma, already struggling to come to terms with a life-changing event, finds herself in mortal danger as it becomes clear that someone has secrets they’ll do anything to hide… ____________________________ ‘A creepily compelling Icelandic mystery that had me hooked from page one. Night Shadows will make you want to sleep with the lights on’ Heidi Amsinck ‘I loved everything about this book: the characters, the setting, the storyline, an intricately woven cast … this book had me utterly gripped!’ J M Hewitt ‘With the third release in the Forbidden Iceland series, Eva Björg establishes herself as not just one of the brightest names in Icelandic crime fiction, but in crime fiction full stop. Night Shadows is an absolute must-read!’ Nordic Watchlist ‘The author writes so beautifully you are immediately immersed in the chilly surrounds … a genuinely excellent novel’ Liz Loves Books ‘One of the most compelling contemporary writers of crime fiction and psychological suspense’ Duncan Beattie,Fiction from Afar Praise for the Forbidden Iceland series: ‘Fans of Nordic Noir will love this’ Ann Cleeves ‘Elma is a fantastic heroine’ Sunday Times ‘Complex, gripping and moving’ The Times ‘An exciting and harrowing tale’ Ragnar Jónasson ‘Eerie and chilling. I loved every word!’ Lesley Kara ‘Not only a full-fat mystery, but also a chilling demonstration of how monsters are made’ The Times ‘Beautifully written, spine-tingling and disturbing … a thrilling new voice in Icelandic crime fiction’ Yrsa Sigurðardóttir ‘As chilling and atmospheric as an Icelandic winter’ Lisa Gray ‘An unsettling and exciting read with a couple of neat red herrings to throw the reader off the scent’ NB Magazine ‘Chilling and troubling … reminiscent of Jorn Lier Horst‘s Norwegian procedurals. This is a book that makes an impact’ Crime Fiction Lover ‘Elma is a memorably complex character’ Financial Times ‘The twist comes out of the blue … enthralling’ Tap The Line Magazine For fans of Ragnar Jonasson, Camilla Lackberg, Ruth Rendell, Gillian McAllister and Shari Lapen

Read more less

Book SynopsisONCE, SHE SAVED HIS LIFE...NOW, HE''LL TAKE HERS.When a baby is snatched from its pram and cast into the river Thames, off-duty police officer Lacey Flint is there to prevent disaster. But who would want to hurt a child?DCI Mark Joesbury has been expecting this. Monitoring a complex network of dark web sites, Joesbury and his team have spotted a new terrorist threat from the extremist, women-hating, group known as ''incels'' or ''involuntary celibates.'' Joesbury''s team are trying to infiltrate the ring of power at its core, but the dark web is built for anonymity, and the incel army is vast.Pressure builds when the team learn the snatched child was just the first in a series of violent attacks designed to terrorise women. Worse, the leaders of the movement seem to have singled out Lacey as the embodiment of everything they hate, placing her in terrible danger...Trade ReviewWhat a book! A clever, tense and timely thriller. I loved every minute of it!' * Rachel Abbott, author of CLOSE YOUR EYES *

Read more less