Crime and mystery: women sleuths / detectives

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisMurder makes unlikely allies.On the eve of the planet Ileri's historic vote to join the Commonwealth, the assassination of a government minister threatens to shatter everything. Private investigator Noo Okereke and spy Meiko Ogawa join forces with police chief Toiwa to investigate and discover clues that point disturbingly toward a threat humanity thought they had escaped.Trade Review"With solid, thoughtful representation this will be well worth the time of any reader looking for socially conscious hard sci-fi." -- Publishers Weekly * Publishers Weekly *"A compelling, explosive debut." -- Locus Magazine * Locus Magazine *

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Book Synopsis‘A lovely mystery evocative of the period from a talented writer.’ Helena Dixon, bestselling author of the Miss Underhay mysteriesSomeone’s been read their last rites…1915, London: Working in the dusty bookshop that her Aunt Violet mysteriously inherited, Hannah Merrill is accustomed to finding twists in every tale. But discovering her beloved best friend Lily-Anne – with a paperknife through her heart – in the middle of the bookshop, is not a plotline she saw coming.The case is anything but textbook. With the discovery of a coded German message, and Hannah’s instinct that Lily-Anne’s husband is keeping secrets, she determines to get to the bottom of it.She can’t do it alone though. To crack this case, Hannah will need the enlist the help of her outrageous, opinionated, only-occasionally-objectionable Aunt Violet.They think they’re making progress until one of their chief suspects is found dead. And Hannah realises that she is herself now in the murderer’s sights. Will the final chapter be the ending of a killer… or just a killer ending?A totally addictive, WW1-set cozy mystery, perfect for fans of Verity Bright, T.E. Kinsey, and Agatha Christie.Readers love Murder in the Bookshop:‘Wonderful!! I had high hopes for this novel and it did not disappoint. Once I began I could hardly put it down. I am excited to read Ms. Davison’s next installment.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I couldn’t put this book down, I just wanted to keep reading. The story kept me guessing all the time and the ending was unexpected. Can’t wait for the next book.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐‘What a fabulous setting for a murder Aunt Violet's dusty bookshop is!… If I could have read it in one sitting, I would have done. A brilliant plot with some clever twists! I think I've found a new favourite series. I can’t wait for the next instalment. Highly recommended!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A fabulous historical novel that entertained me from the start… Reminiscent of Miss Jane Marple… I loved the inclusion of Bartleby, the bookshop cat who was very much a character in his own right.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I loved this book. Hannah and Aunt Violet are wonderful characters and I liked them from the start. The surrounding characters are well imagined. The setting is interesting. I enjoyed the references to literature and the way books were a part of the story line… Very entertaining and I highly recommend it.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Set against the backdrop of the war in 1915, with the very real fears of invasion and bombings, the characters are beautifully drawn, especially the wonderfully bold and rather scandalous suffragette Violet who carries a few secrets of her own and who I immediately loved. This is a great start to a new cosy crime series and I am looking forward to seeing what happens next to the amateur sleuths and their friends.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Fascinating characters, scandals, espionage and murder… Kept me turning the pages wanting to know what would happen to Hannah and her delightful feline companion.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I loved this delightful new cozy mystery featuring a young society girl and her suffragette aunt… 5 stars. I look forward to more in this series.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A compelling tale, full of red herrings, lost love, along with excellent research of the time period.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A very fun read! I can’t wait to read the next installment!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisLambing season always brings the unexpected… But no one expected murderJude Gray never thought she’d find herself widowed and running a working farm full-time, but here she is, living in the small Malvern village her husband Adam spent most of his life in.After a particularly gruelling lambing season, she is looking forward to some time off, but there’s no rest for the wicked, especially when she finds the body of one of Adam’s oldest friends on her farm.Unimpressed with the local constabulary's efforts, Jude starts an investigation of her own. But as the body count rises, danger creeps ever closer to Malvern Farm.A killer is on the prowl. And all that stands in their way is one woman – and her dog.-'A complex and intriguing murder mystery set in beautiful British countryside where the farm animals are as demanding as the local residents. Kept me guessing all the way to the end.' T A Williams, author of Murder in Siena'An original setting and clever plot. Had me hooked from page one.' E.V. Hunter, author of A Contest to Kill For'A tantalising corkscrew of a plot ... featuring a plucky quartet of very different women working together to uncover the truth about a series of dreadful crimes...' Debbie Young, author of Artful Antics at St Brides'I loved this rollercoaster of a book! It was stylish, pacy and gripping, with engaging characters. I rooted for Jude the sleuth from the first page. It's a hugely supenseful story, compelling, well-crafted and cleverly calculated.' Judy Leigh, author of Foul Play at Seal Bay'A cryptically clever cosy mystery that will transport you to the beautiful Malvern Hills. I couldn’t put it down!' Jessica Bull, author of Miss Austen Investigates'A fabulous cosy murder mystery with plenty of likeable (or are they?) characters, baby lambs, drinks at the local & beautiful countryside. Plus plenty of twists & turns to keep you guessing. Highly recommended!' Cate Green, author of The Curious Kidnapping of Nora W'A hugely enjoyable and clever murder mystery.' C L Miller, author of The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder‘A great twisty murder mystery, cleverly done and with characters I loved spending time with…’ Kristen Perrin, author of How to Solve Your Own Murder

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Book SynopsisA psychological thriller from best-selling author Valerie Keogh you won't want to miss!!What if someone from your past tried to destroy your future?When Melanie Scott is promoted to junior partner, she thinks she has put her past behind her and while out celebrating her promotion, she meets the handsome and charming Hugo Field.Melanie has her doubts and is haunted by her mother’s critical voice, which reminds her that she’s messed up before. But when Hugo invites her for dinner, she buries her feeling and accepts his invitation.She deserves the chance of happiness, doesn’t she?However, the past she thought she'd buried resurfaces when she receives an email containing a name; Anne Edwards. A name she thought she’d left behind.When the emails escalate, she knows she has to find out who is behind them, but at what cost?Melanie is about to learn that her past will shape her future forever…What everyone is saying about The Lawyer:'This is an amazing book, just buy it, and sit back and enjoy the ride. A massive five shiny starts from me.' Bestselling author Anita Waller'This deliciously twisty story kept me up late at night, desperate to know the outcome. A definite 5 stars.' Bestselling author Keri Beevis"If you are after a thrilling story... this is the one for you""I just cannot get enough of this author's books."Please note: This book was previously published as The Deadly Truth

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Book Synopsis“If you make it across the border, get us help. Some of us care. Do you understand? ... The arrests grow insane.” At the very hour this message is en route to the CIA, Mrs Pollifax is waiting for her night-blooming cereus flower to do its thing. She hardly gets to see its flowers, though, before being whisked off for another daring mission halfway across the world. Soon she is sporting a beautiful new hat – perfect for hiding eight forged passports. Armed with only an open mind and a little karate, Mrs Pollifax is the most unlikely and lovable of international spies. What readers are saying: “Love, love, love Mrs Pollifax. Ms Gilman has an extraordinary way of keeping you on the edge of your seat and turning the pages of her books.” “How can a sweet little old lady get into so much trouble? Mrs Pollifax is a gem and a hoot!” “A book that gives you a big smile on every page. I'm looking forward to my next Mrs Pollifax adventure.” “Who wouldn't fall in love with a senior citizen who wears absurd hats, pushes the book cart at the hospital, and knows karate?” “I first read the Mrs Pollifax books when I was a little girl and I keep coming back to read the books again and again.” “Read it, it's the best thing you can do for yourself. It's like a reminder of the zest for life.” Editorial reviews: “Mrs Pollifax is an enchantress.” New York Times “Mrs Pollifax gives Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple a rival to reckon with.” Toronto Star “Filled with adventures–and misadventures–but through it all Mrs Pollifax is triumphant.” Booklist “Absorbing and worthwhile ... You won’t want to put the book down.” Portland Telegram “The pace never flags, bolstered by the shrewd Mrs P. and a host of well-defined characters who all work their surprising wiles.” Publishers Weekly “Should delight you whether you’re looking for smiles or thrills.” New York Times Book Review “All’s right with the world as long as Mrs Pollifax is part of it.” Mobile Register

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Book SynopsisResolved to give up spying for good, Mrs Pollifax can’t stop herself agreeing to carry a small object to an agent in Thailand, and get one in return. The moment she lands, Mrs P. is horrified to find her contact dead and her husband kidnapped. The next thing she knows, she’s tramping through the unfamiliar Thai countryside, led by a curious fellow who may be trying to help her find her husband. Or he may have other, more sinister plans ... Armed with only an open mind and a little karate, Mrs Pollifax is the most unlikely and lovable of international spies. Trade ReviewPraise for Mrs Pollifax 'Mrs Pollifax is an enchantress' New York Times'Mrs Pollifax gives Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple a rival to reckon with' Toronto Star'Filled with adventures–and misadventures–but through it all Mrs Pollifax is triumphant' Booklist'Absorbing and worthwhile ... You won’t want to put the book down' Portland Telegram'The pace never flags, bolstered by the shrewd Mrs P. and a host of well-defined characters who all work their surprising wiles' Publishers Weekly'Should delight you whether you’re looking for smiles or thrills' New York Times Book Review'All’s right with the world as long as Mrs Pollifax is part of it' Mobile Register

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Book SynopsisMrs Pollifax is on hand in Morocco to back up an inept CIA agent, and it's a good thing... All she has to do is to masquerade as his aunt while he confirms the identities of seven undercover agents in Morocco – and keep him from making an unpleasant ass of himself. But things quickly go wrong. Their first informant is killed, and Mrs Pollifax begins to get the idea that her colleague is not who he says he is. Still, she forges ahead, checking out suspicious informants, and coming to the conclusion that someone is an impostor and someone wants her dead. Armed with only an open mind and a little karate, Mrs Pollifax is the most unlikely and lovable of international spies.

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Book SynopsisThe last thing Mrs Pollifax expects to find in her closet is a young woman hiding. Kadi Hopkirk insists that she is being followed by two men in a dirty white van. Under the cover of darkness, Mrs Pollifax tries to drive Kadi back home, only to have a dark green sedan give them a run for their money and, she begins to suspect, their lives. Ever resourceful, Mrs P. puts in a call for help to her CIA colleague, Carstairs, who installs them in a safe house. Before she knows it, a dash to safety expands into an assignment that leads to hair-trigger violence in exotic places... Armed with only an open mind and a little karate, Mrs Pollifax is the most unlikely and lovable of international spies.

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Book SynopsisSome secrets were meant to stay hidden… Trust no-oneAfter an operation goes badly wrong, undercover specialist Detective Caelan Small leaves the Metropolitan Police for good. Or so she thinks. Then the criminal responsible is seen back in the UK. Soon Caelan is drawn back into a dangerous investigation. But when the main lead is suddenly murdered, all bets are off. Nothing is as it seems. Everyone is a suspect - even close colleagues. Someone in the Met is involved and Caelan is being told to Ask No Questions. That isn't an option: Caelan needs answers… whatever the cost. The nerve-shredding new crime thriller from bestseller Lisa Hartley starts a must-read new series. Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons and Robert Bryndza, it will keep you guessing until the very end. The Detective Caelan Small Series1. Ask No Questions2. Tell No Lies3. Time To Go

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Book SynopsisThere's power in stories. But power comes at a price. Detective Cora Gorderheim is a detective no longer. Stripped of her badge, her job now is to protect her sister, Ruth, the new Wayward storyteller. Ruth must tell her tale of the Tear widening if people are to know what's really happening in the Union of Realms. But the powers that be want her silenced. Keeping Ruth alive in Fenest is hard enough, but when the sisters set sail for West Perlanse, the dangers come thick and fast. And soon Cora realises she must make a terrible choice: her sister's life, or the future of the Union. 'Melding noir with the fantasy genre, this is a rather clever read, one which feels especially prescient for our reality' SCIFINOWTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE TALES OF FENEST TRILOGY: 'Melding noir with the fantasy genre, this is a rather clever read, one which feels especially prescient for our reality' SciFiNow. 'Like a Philip Pullman rendition of Cloud Atlas. Widow's Welcome is an irresistibly thrilling introduction to a world of stories within stories – and I can't wait for more' Tim Major. 'There is more than meets the eye in this gripping and inventive debut... Rife with intrigue, deceit and cultural tension' James Aitcheson. 'It's rare to find such a richly imagined world about the art of myth and storytelling' Christopher Fowler. 'If you love storytelling, you'll love this' -- Simon Morden

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Book SynopsisA dazzling mixture of crime, romance, magic and myth from the author of the bestselling The Psychology of Time Travel. The Kendricks have been making world-famous dolls for over 200 years. But their dolls aren't coveted for the craftmanship alone. Each has an emotion laid on it; a magic that can provoke bucolic bliss or consuming paranoia at a single touch. Persephone Kendrick longs to learn her ancestors' craft, but only men may know the secrets of the workshop. So when a handsome stranger arrives claiming doll-making talent and blood ties to the family she sees a chance to grasp all she desires. But then, one night, the firm's most valuable doll is stolen. Only someone with knowledge of magic could have taken her. Only a Kendrick could have committed this crime... 'Captivating, inventive and tender' ADELE PARKS 'An atmospheric examination of gender inequality' GUARDIAN 'A magical tale that blends very human people with a hidden world of enchantment' WOMAN & HOME 'An addictive fantasy with a smart feminist twist' iNEWSTrade ReviewBringing magic realism to a contemporary Oxford setting in an atmospheric examination of gender inequality * Guardian *Mascarenhas's lushly inventive second novel is an addictive fantasy with a smart feminist twist * iNews *Captivating, inventive and tender... A dazzling mix of crime, romance, magic and myth' -- Adele ParksThis magical tale blends very human people with a hidden world of enchantment * Woman *[A] vividly imagined second novel * The i *I adored this beautifully crafted and thought-provoking magic realist novel... Multi-faceted, challenging, and entirely captivating... A truly lovely read' * LoveReading *There's a wonderful sense of magic and tradition, but the story as a whole has a very contemporary feel * Waterstones *[A] dazzling mixture of crime, romance, magic and myth... Captivating, inventive and tender' * Platinum *Kate Mascarenhas' striking visual images and characters will have you casting the movie whilst reading... This is simply a great and original tale that put me in mind of such as Stardust by Neil Gaiman. The magic lingers along with the family issues. The ending is surprising and clever and I look forward to more by Kate Mascarenhas' * SF Crowsnest *

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Book SynopsisYou can’t run from the truth…Cassie McNamara was found guilty of the murder of her husband, Paul Cavellini, but she has always protested her innocence. Upon her release, she hires local journalist, Dee Doran, to prove she was wrongfully convicted.Cassie and Paul’s young daughter, Grace, was adopted by Paul’s family. When eighteen-year-old Grace goes missing and her body is found, all eyes turn to Cassie as the prime suspect in her daughter’s death. Then, Cassie, just like Grace, disappears.Left behind to investigate, Dee must work to find the truth behind Grace and Paul’s deaths, because someone is keeping secrets. They’ve killed before, they’ll do it again if they have to.A gripping crime thriller you won’t be able to put down, perfect for fans of Alex Marwood and Fiona Barton.Praise for You Were Always Mine ‘The plot is compelling and Dee Doran is an excellent character to carry the story. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages at record speed.’ Patricia Gibney, author of The Guilty Girl‘A beautifully crafted novel that had me guessing right up to the thrilling conclusion. Sheila Bugler’s best novel yet.’ Marion Todd, author of Old Bones Lie‘I was captivated by Bugler’s meticulous story-weaving and characterisation - especially Dee and Freya whom I particularly enjoyed. You Were Always Mine is a delicious slow-burn, who-done-it that hooked me from the first line. If you want fast-pace, tension and pithy prose, pick up a Sheila Bugler novel!’ Amanda Cassidy, author of Breaking‘You Were Always Mine moves at a great pace. I found myself flicking through the pages with gusto as past and present collide in this thrilling page turner filled with dark secrets and lies that will keep you guessing until the very end.’ Louise Phillips, author of They All Lied‘You Were Always Mine has captivating characters, plenty of thrills, an enthralling storyline and a wonderful sense of place… everything I look for in a great mystery.’ Chris Curran, author of When the Lights Go Out‘I loved this book. Its cleverly constructed plot was so twisty it tied my mind up in knots trying to work out who, what, why and when! A great addition to the Dee Doran series. Highly recommended.’ Lorraine Mace, author of Say Your Prayers‘A gripping thriller from the start. The book reads with great speed and it’s truly a page-turner.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘BAM! Full of high suspense, intrigue, action, a great who done it and great mystery! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A fabulous read. It was so full of tension, I was on the edge of my seat. I grappled with who the murderer was, continually changing my mind.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A riveting fast paced thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat until the last page. This thriller will bring you in from the first page.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisHer vengeance will be deadly…Cathy Townsend has it all, a loving husband, two handsome sons, and a lifestyle that many people envy. But one violent and bloody night Cathy's whole world comes crashing down around her.Heartbroken and reeling from the events that took place, Cathy is determined to seek revenge on the people responsible for stealing her perfect life away from her. She knows she’ll need help but doesn’t know who to trust.Because in this new dark and dangerous world, Cathy discovers that friends are enemies and blood isn’t always thicker than water.Another brilliant story from Kerry Kaya, perfect for gangland fans everywhere!This book was previously published as The Reprisal.

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Book SynopsisEve Mallow''s going back to school! But when a former student is murdered, Eve must discover who taught her a deadly lesson...  Eve Mallow is delighted when she''s asked to cater Founders'' Day at Southwood School. It''s the best - and most secretive - school for miles around, and Eve can''t wait to see what it''s really like. But when she arrives, the atmosphere is far from scholarly. Natalie Somerson, ex-pupil and professional gossip, is the guest of honour, but nobody seems to want her there... especially when her speech stirs up an old scandal about a secret love affair. So why was she invited? The next morning, Natalie is found dead in a locked attic room. To make matters worse, Eve''s boyfriend Robin becomes the police''s prime suspect. Determined to prove his innocence, Eve starts to investigate everyone with a stake in the school. Is it the prudish principal, worried about Natalie''s influence? Her former teacher, whose life Natalie made miserable? Or the head girl, who seemed to hate Natalie one day and adore her the next? When strange letters arrive at the school and Eve finds a bottle of Natalie''s perfume in the most unexpected place, she senses time is running out to save Robin''s good name. Eve had better study her suspects and unmask the real killer... before they give her a fatal mark!   An utterly delightful and page-turning English cozy mystery, perfect for fans of Frances Evesham, J.R. Ellis and Agatha Christie. See what everyone is saying about the Eve Mallow series: ''Plenty of plot twists, red herrings, and misdirection. Kept me in suspense. I loved it!'' Goodreads reviewer, ????? ''Utterly delightful!... The perfect cozy murder mystery... Keeps you on your toes!... I highly recommend this to the armchair detectives of the world!'' The Two Quills ''Delightful and charming... I absolutely adore this series.'' Once Upon a Time Book Blog, ????? ''Stunning... Loved the story... and just everything about it... A great story that I couldn''t put down.'' Crossroad Reviews ''I loved this book... Everything an old-fashioned sleuthing ought to be... I flew through the pages.'' Shalini''s Books & Reviews, ????? ''A totally addictive page-turner that will have you racing through the pages and reeling at the twists.'' NetGalley reviewer ''A fantastic read... Had me guessing till the last page.'' Goodreads reviewer, ????? ''Drags the reader right into the plot from day one. She writes so vividly... I can almost imagine I''m on the dunes walking Gus, an inspiration of a dog that steals the show... A Marplesque amateur sleuth.'' Jenny O''Brien, ????? ''Stepping into the pages of a new Eve Mallow mystery is like stepping into your favourite well-worn comfy slippers... Deliciously moreish... If you haven''t already discovered this series then what are you waiting for???'' Goodreads reviewer, ?????

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Book SynopsisWe were all at the party. Which of us wanted her dead? As the smoke from the bonfire spirals into the night sky and the cool drinks slip down our throats, none of us can take our eyes off Lacey. She dances in the dunes, her long golden hair damp from her late-night swim, her smile dazzling, her blue eyes closed. Everyone who is close to Lacey sits by the smoky fire. Her adoring boyfriend, who holds onto her, perhaps a little too tightly. Her little sister, always in Lacey''s shadow, sifting fine soft sand through her fingers, never taking her eyes off Lacey. And me. Sad and full of rage, after an argument forced the man I love to leave the party early. When the fire burns out, we stumble away from the beach, along the cliff path - faces burned by the wind, hearts full of secrets. But Lacey never makes it home. The next morning, her body is found in the sand dunes, a heart-shaped locket missing from around her neck.   Who would have thought our beach party could end the way it did? Close friends gathered on the last night of a long hot summer - which one of us could have killed the girl everybody loved?   An absolutely gripping psychological thriller with an ending you will NEVER see coming! Strap in for a twisty rollercoaster ride that will keep you turning pages all night long. Perfect for anyone who adored The Holiday, The Guest List or Gone Girl. What everyone is saying about The Beach Party: ''The kind of book that keeps you hooked and guessing till very end... Full of mystery, tension and suspense. Had my heart pounding! The best thriller I''ve read this year. This book will reel you in instantly!'' Rubie Reads, ????? ''There were so many twists and turns in the story that lead to a really surprising and shocking ending. This is a cracking novel which was well crafted and full of suspense, I loved it.'' Goodreads reviewer, ????? This book was excellent! It had me riveted from page one. The pacing was perfect and the narrative intriguing, making it near impossible to put down. I read this one in record time and highly recommend. The twists as they played out were extremely well done too.'' Celebrating Authors, ????? ''WOW! A phenomenal read... The setting is a quaint small town, that feels quite picturesque. Suspenseful, thrilling, twists, turns. I didn''t put it down once I picked it up.'' Goodreads reviewer, ????? ''What a fabulous story'' Bookreadmarathon ?????''I was hooked from the first page, I really felt like I was in the novel from start to finish, I could almost taste the sea salt on my tongue. The plot was extremely gripping and well thought out.'' Netgalley reviewer, ?????

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