Crime and mystery: women sleuths / detectives

Book SynopsisA body lost at sea, arson, murder, astronauts, wind phones, communal funerals, stalking and conspiracy theories … This can ONLY mean one thing! The Skelfs are back, and things are as tense, unnerving and warmly funny as ever! ‘A terrific read with all of Johnston’s trademark warmth and wicked wit in the latest gripping outing for this beguiling family’ A K Turner ‘Some of the best female characters in crime fiction. Pitch-perfect balance of dark and light … disturbing, compassionate and brilliantly funny’ Sarah Hilary 'The Skelfs series just gets better and better! Outstanding characters and a gripping plot … Doug Johnstone is one of the greats of Scottish crime fiction' Luca Veste ____________ Even death needs company… The Skelf women are recovering from the cataclysmic events that nearly claimed their lives. Their funeral-director and private-investigation businesses are back on track, and their cases are as perplexing as ever. Matriarch Dorothy looks into a suspicious fire at an illegal campsite and takes a grieving, homeless man under her wing. Daughter Jenny is searching for her missing sister-in-law, who disappeared in tragic circumstances, while grand-daughter Hannah is asked to investigate increasingly dangerous conspiracy theorists, who are targeting a retired female astronaut … putting her own life at risk. With a body lost at sea, funerals for those with no one to mourn them, reports of strange happenings in outer space, a funeral crasher with a painful secret, and a violent attack on one of the family, The Skelfs face their most personal – and perilous – cases yet. Doing things their way may cost them everything… Tense, unnerving and warmly funny, The Opposite of Lonely is the hugely anticipated fifth instalment in the unforgettable Skelfs series, and this time, danger comes from everywhere… _________________________ ‘If you loved Iain Banks, you’ll devour the Skelfs series’ Erin Kelly ‘Authentic female characters … Short, punchy chapters mean that the pace is brisk, and Johnstone’s deft way of portraying old and new characters means that even novice readers of the series won’t be left behind’ Scotsman 'An absolute joy to read … full of such wonderful characters, brilliantly realised, with more peril and intrigue. Certainly the best one yet' James Oswald ‘Wonderful characters: flawed, funny and brave’ Sunday Times Johnstone never fails to entertain whilst packing a serious emotional punch’ Gytha Lodge ‘A unique brand of crime fiction boasting rare heart and depth’ Ambrose Parry ‘Some of the most unique characters in crime fiction’ Daily Express ‘Gritty, atmospheric and, above all, profoundly moving. An emotional education in the most unexpected of ways … I loved it’ Sarah Sultoon ‘A must for those seeking strong, authentic, intelligent female protagonists’ Publishers Weekly ‘The Skelfs books are brilliant’ Miranda Dickinson ***SHORTLISTED FOR THEAKSTON’S OLD PECULIER CRIME NOVEL OF THE YEAR***

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

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Book SynopsisThe Edgar Award-winning, New York Times-bestselling series by Dana Stabenow set in Alaska. Kate Shugak investigates a brutal murder spree in A Fatal Thaw. Eleven days ago, Roger McAniff bought himself a new Winchester 30.06 rifle. Ten days ago he went out to test it. Now nine people are dead. But only eight were killed by McAniff... Stephen Syms. Patrick Jorgensen. Lyle and Lucy Longstaff. Lisa Getty. The Weiss family, John, Tina, and their two children. All slaughtered. Considering she would have been his final victim, private investigator Kate Shugak almost regrets not killing Roger McAniff. But Lisa Getty was killed by a different rifle. Different rifle, different shooter. And Kate is tasked with tracking this unknown killer down before the case goes completely cold... Reviewers on Dana Stabenow's Kate Shugak series: 'An antidote to sugary female sleuths: Kate Shugak, the Aleut private investigator.' New York Times 'Crime fiction doesn't get much better than this.' Booklist 'If you are looking for something unique in the field of crime fiction, Kate Shugak is the answer.' Michael Connelly 'An outstanding series.' Washington Post 'One of the strongest voices in crime fiction.' Seattle TimesTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE KATE SHUGAK SERIES: 'If you are looking for something unique in the field of crime fiction, Kate Shugak is the answer' Michael Connelly. 'An antidote to sugary female sleuths: Kate Shugak, the Aleut private investigator' New York Times. 'Stabenow is blessed with a rich prose style and a fine eye for detail. An outstanding series' Washington Post. 'Crime fiction doesn't get much better than this' Booklist. 'Sparkles with energy and wit, and packs an unexpected punch' Publishers Weekly. 'For rich, idiosyncratic settings and engaging characters... let me recommend Dana Stabenow' -- Diana Gabaldon

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Book SynopsisA search for truth brings Tuva into danger in the fifth Tuva Moodyson mysteryTrade ReviewPraise for the series: ‘The tension is unrelenting, and I can’t wait for Tuva’s next outing.’ Val McDermid ‘Loaded with atmosphere, brilliant on setting, and Tuva Moodyson just rocks.’ Mark Billingham ‘A must read.’ Observer Thriller of the Month ‘BRILLIANT.’ Ann Cleeves‘Dean piles on the beauty and loneliness of the wilds… as he builds up to a scene so claustrophobically horrifying I had to keep looking away. Another great instalment in Tuva’s story.’ -- The Observer‘I LOVED it… I recommend SO highly.’ -- Marian Keyes, author of Grown Ups‘I came late to the Tuva Moodyson series, but I've come to appreciate the tight and tense plotting and excellent characterisation. Tuva Moodyson herself is a masterclass in how to build a character: she's gay and she's deaf but neither her sexuality nor her disability defines her… This is a cracker of a series: probably the best of the current Scandi-noir. I'm looking forward to seeing what Will and Tuva do next.’ -- The Bookbag

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Book SynopsisAs All Hallows’ Eve approaches, Hettie Bagshot of The No. 2 Feline Detective Agency has more than just a ghost and a warlock tart on her plate. Upon discovering the body of Mavis Spitforce, Hettie and her trusty sidekick Tilly set out to investigate an old crime and a spate of new murders. Why was Mavis Spitforce dressed for Halloween? Can Irence Peggledrip really talk to cats from the spirit world? And what’s the connection to the legend of Milky Myers, suspected of murdering his family on Halloween, longer ago than anyone can remember? As the November fog closes in, can the tabby duo unearth the truth, and stop the murderer before they strike again – and will there be enough samosas to go round?Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE NO. 2 FELINE DETECTIVE AGENCY ‘Original and intriguing… a world without people which cat lovers will enter and enjoy’ P. D. James‘Mandy Morton’s Feline Detective Agency instigates a new genre, both wonderful and surreal’ Maddy Prior‘The world that Morton has created is irresistible’ Publishers Weekly‘Witty and smart. Prepare to be besotted’ M. K. Graff‘Mandy Morton’s series is both charming and whimsical' Barry Forshaw

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Book SynopsisMelanie Travis is taking a much-needed break from the dog show circuit for a romantic Valentine’s trip with her husband Sam, but when someone at their cozy Berkshires inn has an unexpected date with death, Melanie must slip into something sleuthier for the weekend . . . Melanie is delighted at the prospect of three uninterrupted days alone with Sam (and, of course, her prize-winning Standard Poodle, Faith). They’re booked at the White Birch Inn, a picturesque New England resort nestled at the foot of a snow-covered mountain. The inn has a full slate of couples activities planned for the busy Valentine''s weekend, but the first night of festivities feature an event that isn’t on the program: murder.As a person of interest in the case, Melanie tries to sneak a little detective work into her romantic getaway. But with the resort nearly sold out for the holiday weekend, there''s no shortage of suspects, and Melani

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Book SynopsisJenny Windell is obsessed with murder mysteries, so when she discovers her estranged aunt dead at her country home, the stage is set for her own investigation. Worried that being the first at the scene of the crime will make her a suspect and ruin her inquiry, she flees. On the run, she befriends Derek Fenton, the dashing younger brother of acclaimed crime writer Archibald Fenton, and persuades him to join her in her attempts to solve the crime and outsmart dim-witted Inspector Marigold. An affectionate send-up of the classic Golden Age murder mystery, this charming comedy is A. A. Milne at his most delightful.

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Book SynopsisI was gripped' Louise Jensen, author of The FallTeenage girls can do some pretty awful thingsLexie and Amber used to share everything, especially their dream of getting out of their small-town home. Born only ten months apart, they once thought they couldn't be closer.THEY WERE WRONG.Fifteen years ago, Amber was brutally murdered in the woods, and Lexie's high-school boyfriend was sentenced to death for her killing. Lexie is still stuck in the town she dreamed she'd leave, and everyone thinks she knew more about the night of the killing than she told.PROBLEM IS, THEY'RE RIGHT.Now the execution is just days away, and the town has breathed a sigh of relief. But old secrets are finally being uncovered, and it's clear not everyone wants the truth to be told.AND TIME IS RUNNING OUTReaders are LOVING Sweet Little LiesGripped me from page one'Kept me on the edge of my seat'I would recommend to anyone'A must read'Keeps up the suspense right up until the very end'Trade Review Praise for Karin Nordin ‘A taut mystery: I was gripped’Louise Jensen, author of The Fall ‘Brooding and atmospheric – full of mystery and twists where nothing is quite as it seems’Catherine Cooper, author of The Chalet ‘A dark, atmospheric and compelling story!’Jackie Kabler, author of The Perfect Couple ‘Kept me gripped throughout and guessing right up to the end. A cracking thriller!’ Philippa East, author of Little White Lies ‘A gripping, race-against-the clock thriller that ratchets up the tension and keeps up the suspense right up until the very end.’ Diane Jeffrey, author of The Guilty Mother ‘Such a great thriller with superb characterization to boot’Khurrum Rahman, author of Homegrown Hero ‘Absolutely loved it!’Laure Van Rensburg, author of The Downfall ‘Dripping with atmosphere, this is a compelling, twisty story with a real heart of darkness. Nordin is back and better than ever!’Louise Mumford, author of The Hotel ‘Incredibly vivid… twists and turns around every corner’Steve Frech, author of Dark Hollows ‘Had me glued to my Kindle for most of the day’Jenny O’Brien, author of Silent Cry

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Book Synopsis‘A thrilling new voice in Scottish fiction’ Marion ToddIf the dead could speak, what secrets would they tell?With her daughter on an archaeological dig, the only bodies DI Shona Oliver expects to find are long-dead. But when a corpse from the 1980s is unearthed, Shona quickly realises that it may be one of the missing “Girls in the Glen”, victim of a notorious serial killer.Shona’s superiors want her to stop looking to the past, and focus on a fresher crime scene. The attempted shooting of a local politician who likes to stoke controversy.As Shona finds herself pulled between crimes past and present, she soon realises that the secrets buried on Beild Moss are reaching into the present day.But when even her own officers are keeping things from her, who can she trust? Especially when more lives may be at stake…The third instalment in the thrilling DI Shona Oliver series, perfect for fans of Neil Lancaster, G. R. Halliday and Ann Cleeves.Praise for The Girls in the Glen ‘A gripping murder mystery and a must-read for fans of Scottish crime. The landscape is beautifully drawn and becomes a character in this tale of dark reprisal’ Stuart Johnstone, author of Into the DarkWhat readers are saying about the DI Shona Oliver series‘Full of twists and turns’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Shona Oliver is the real McCoy… exceptional leader, mother and wife fighting crime and personal family issues in equal proportions with heart, skill, compassion, integrity and humanity’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Great twists and turns and … a shocking climax. A brilliant read, I really enjoyed this one’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘A haunting and absorbing novel set against the backdrop of a notoriously stunning but dangerous landscape’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Fast paced, unexpected turns and great character development’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘The sort of read that keeps you glued and up all night’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘This book has so many elements I enjoy; a strong, intelligent woman, an atmospheric setting and the history of this wild area. Lynne McEwan makes her characters come alive’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Unputdownable! I was absolutely entranced with this and quickly read the whole book on tender hooks. One of the best I've read this year’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review‘Well written and plenty of interesting characters woven through a clever plot’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

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Book SynopsisHettie Bagshot has bitten off more than any cat could chew. No sooner has she launched her No. 2 Feline Detective Agency than she's thrown into her first case. Furcross, home for senior cats, has a nasty spate of bodysnatching, and three former residents have been stolen from their graves. Hettie and her sidekick, Tilly, set out to reveal the terrible truth. Is Nurse Mogadon involved in a deadly game? Has the haberdashery department of Malkin and Sprinkle become a mortuary? And what flavour will Betty Butter's pie of the week be? In a haze of catnip and pastry, Hettie steers the case to its conclusion, but will she get there before the body count rises - and the pies sell out?Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE NO. 2 FELINE DETECTIVE AGENCY ‘Original and intriguing… a world without people which cat lovers will enter and enjoy’ P. D. James‘Mandy Morton’s Feline Detective Agency instigates a new genre, both wonderful and surreal’ Maddy Prior‘The world that Morton has created is irresistible’ Publishers Weekly‘Witty and smart. Prepare to be besotted’ M. K. Graff‘Mandy Morton’s series is both charming and whimsical’ Barry Forshaw

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Book SynopsisA serial killer to chill your bones.A gripping and heart-pounding thriller that gives a glimpse into the mind of a psychopath even more terrifying than Hannibal Lecter. If you like Mo Hayder and Thomas Harris’s Silence of the Lambs, you’ll love Rattle and The Collector.A SERIAL KILLER TO CHILL YOUR BONES. A FAMILY TO WARM YOUR HEART. A DETECTIVE WHO MUST HUNT HIM DOWN.He has planned well. He leads two lives. In one, he’s just like anyone else. But in the other he’s the caretaker of his family’s macabre museum.Now the time has come to add to his collection. He is ready to feed his obsession, and he is on the hunt.Jakey Frith and Clara Foyle have something in common. They have what he needs.What begins is a terrifying cat and mouse game between the sinister collector, Jakey’s father and DS Etta Fitzroy, a detective investigating a spate of abductions.&lsquoTrade ReviewSo good I read it twice. Trust me - Cummins is a keeper -- Lee ChildAn excellent read -- Martina ColeIt’s a rare debut that has this much polish. Harrowing and horrifying, head and shoulders above most of the competition -- Val McDermidSharp, moving and wholly original. Rattle is a breath of fresh air -- Tammy CohenA creepy crime debut with shades of The Babadook about it . . . I think it will be huge -- Sarah HilaryGripping. A total page-turner. A rattling good read -- D. E. MeredithCleverest and creepiest plot I’ve read in a long time. Left me breathless with fear . . . utterly brilliant -- Michelle DaviesVividly contrasts the apparent normality of suburbia with the awful truths it can conceal . . . A thriller that is capable of keeping you up all night — and then haunting your dreams. Creepy and accomplished, it is not quite as scary as Lecter, but close -- Daily MailA highly original and creepy tale that rattles along with menace and does not let up until the cracking finale -- Daily ExpressSerial killers don’t come much scarier than the monstrous creation who haunts this astonishingly assured debut, which transforms London’s leafy suburb of Blackheath into a realm of mythic horror . . . as the tension and urgency escalates, Cummins takes you on a macabre but riveting thrill ride -- Sunday MirrorOriginal, gripping and beautifully written - I love this book -- Alice FeeneyTearing through Rattle. It’s brilliant! -- Tasha KavanaghOriginal, vivid, stunningly written with a plot that shocks and disturbs from the very first page. Leaves you holding your breath . . . a fantastic read -- Debbie HowellsA chilling and inventive debut -- Simon BeckettFast-paced, vivid and confident – you are in the hands of an accomplished storyteller. Not only does it smother with its horror, it startles and uplifts with its humanity -- Julia CrouchSo here’s a book to look forward to in 2017 . . . Rattle by talented Fiona Cummins. Chilling, original and beautifully written. Loved it! -- Amanda JenningsTaut, menacing and brilliantly written -- Louise MillarSeriously creepy and very well written. One that’ll have you double-checking your doors are locked at night -- Ali LandRattle is such an original thriller; a novel that plumbs the depths of evil yet stuns you with its humanity. The writing is never less than sublime -- Colette McBethAmid the outpouring of crime novels centred on missing children, Rattle is up there with the best of them. Fiona Cummins has created an exceptionally creepy psychopathic killer . . . A gem of a scary debut -- Marcel Berlins in The Times

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Book SynopsisWow! A stunning, nerve-wracking read. So well plotted with so many twists and turnsit kept me guessing until the very last page!' Bestselling author Patricia GibneyI don''t know what happened to my daughter. Only that she''s missing and I was the last person to see herMy name is Nora Logue. You've probably heard of me most people have.I am the mother of Daisy Logue. Seven years ago, I took her for a walk in the woods. Only I came out.I have no memory of what happened that day.I have tried to rebuild my life. Met a man, had another child Luca. But I can't let go of Daisy, or give up hope of seeing her again.And now, I have the chance to find out what happened to her.But what if pursuing the truth about my daughter risks my son's life?A whiplash-inducing, unputdownable crime thriller from the author of The Nurse, perfect for fans of CLARE MACKINTOSH and LISA JEWELL.Readers can't put down IN THE DARK!So gripping! I read this brilliant book in two sittings because I just had to know whTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR IN THE DARK: ‘Stunning writing, superb plotting, and characters that jump off the page – In The Dark is outstanding; her best yet.’ – Andrea Mara 'Dark secrets, dark motives and dark twists galore – seriously, what more can you ask for in a book?’ – M.K. Hill ‘Claire Allan’s voice and ability to keep you gripped to the page are pure magic. Prepare to lose sleep as you work your way through a rollercoaster of emotions, theories, and near-misses. This book is the poster child for taking the old missing child story we all know and flipping it on its head. I couldn’t get enough of the terrifying premise and delicious storytelling. Utterly captivating, this pulse-pounding thriller is one not to be missed. Thriller lovers, get your hands on this one and clear all your plans! In The Dark demands to be read in one sitting. – Kiersten Modglin author of The Arrangement Trilogy

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Book SynopsisNeighbours Carole and Jude uncover more than they bargained for when Jude decides to redecorate her cottage in this lighthearted cosy mystery.An edgy cozy, filled with dry wit and deft plot twists- Booklist Starred ReviewHaving decided to redecorate Woodside Cottage, Jude has engaged the services of local man Pete, who has painted and decorated the homes of Fethering residents for many years. Pete is currently working on Footscrow House, a large Victorian building which is being converted into holiday flats by a local developer. Having arranged to meet at ''Fiasco House'', as it is known locally due to the many failed business enterprises over the years, Jude and Pete make a surprising discovery behind a wall panel: a woman''s handbag! The casual discovery becomes serious when the police identify the handbag''s owner as Anita Garner, a young woman who vanished in suspicious circumstances twenty years earlier. Determined to

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Book SynopsisSOMEONE WANTS YOU OUT OF THE PICTURE . . .The thrilling new Detective Jane Tennison crime novel from the Queen of Crime Drama - now available in paperback, eBook and audiobook.__________________________Helena Lanark is the only one who knows about the horrors which once occurred in her family's house. The heiress of an immense family fortune, she now resides in a luxurious care home; her mind and memory fading fast.Jane Tennison is leading a murder investigation into the recent brutal death of a young girl, her decomposed, starved body discovered in an old air raid shelter in the garden of the Lanark's now derelict house. Initially the focus is on identifying the victim, until another body is found hidden in the walls of the shelter.As the investigation and search for answers intensifies, Jane travels to Australia. There she discovers the dark secret that the Lanark family has kept hidden for decades. A secret that not only threatens to bring down a family dynasty, but also places Jane Tennison in mortal danger . . .Murder hides behind closed doors in Lynda La Plante's brilliant new Jane Tennison thriller.______________________________Praise for Lynda La Plante:'The UK's most celebrated female crime author' - DAILY MAIL'Thirty years on from writing Prime Suspect, La Plante is still delivering the goods' - THE TIMES'Tough, brilliant and damaged, [Tennison] shook up the genre forever' - DAILY EXPRESS'Lynda La Plante practically invented the thriller' - KARIN SLAUGHTER

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Book SynopsisTrouble''s on the wind when an auctioneer turns up dead in the new Trash ''n'' Treasures cozy mystery - "one of the funniest cozy series going" (Ellery Queen Magazine)Two o''clock in the morning is the perfect time to be asleep. So when long-suffering Brandy Borne is rudely awoken by her eccentric mother, Vivian, and invited on a surreptitious shopping trip, the idea is less than tempting. But if Vivian - Serenity''s true-crime writing, septuagenarian super-sleuth - has a nose for sniffing out antiques, Brandy''s sense of smell is just as good . . . and trouble''s on the wind.A little light blackmail and one run-in with the police later, and Brandy and Vivian are the ''proud'' owners of a selection of dead stock, liberated ahead of an upcoming warehouse sale from unsavory auctioneer Conrad Norris. Brandy''s not convinced there''s a fortune to be made in vintage toys, retro plates and pearl buttons - there''s more mileage in their shop''s new Halloween display, even though it''s only August - but she supposes it could be worse.It soon is. After the auction''s taken place, Vivian and Brandy make an unnerving discovery. It''s not just the stock that''s dead - so is the auctioneer . . .This light-hearted, laugh-out-loud cozy mystery also features Brandy and Vivian''s humorous tips for buying and selling antiques, along with a selection of tasty recipes.

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Book SynopsisIn the mining town of Goetia, the world is divided between The Fallen, descendants of demonkind, and The Virtues, the winners in an ancient war. Celeste and Mariel are two Fallen sisters, bound by blood but raised in separate worlds. Celeste grew up with their father, passing in privileged society, while Mariel stayed with their mother in Goetia’s slums. Celeste is wracked by guilt for leaving her sister behind, and when their father dies, she becomes Mariel’s fiercest protector. But their lives are upended when Mariel is arrested for the murder of a Virtue.Determined to save her sister and prove her innocence, Celeste turns to her ex-lover, a former general in the armies of Hell, for help. Soon Celeste is making her own deals with devils and angels alike to prove her sister's innocence. However the journey to discover the truth threatens to become more than Celeste ever bargained for.Trade Review‘Rebecca Roanhorse is known for her incredible worldbuilding, diverse inspirations, and complex reinterpretations of tropes, and all her talents are perfectly on display in her latest.’ -- CrimeReads‘A compelling, dark fantasy mystery’ -- BuzzFeed News

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Book SynopsisThe third 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 CLEEVESLiveaboard skipper and amateur sleuth Cass Lynch is enjoying marine college in Scalloway, until the night she finds an acquaintance dead - with one hand smeared in peat ash. Rumours spread of a strange ritual linked to the witches once burned in Shetland''s ancient capital, and of a horned figure roaming the night. At first Cass believes these whisperings to be mere superstition, until a second shocking murder comes to light. Perhaps the devil really does walk in Scalloway . . . Previously published as A Handful of Ash.____________________________

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Book SynopsisA classic crime novel by Freeman Wills Crofts, The King of Detective Story Writers', featuring Inspector French, coming soon to television.Julia Elton, mistress of Chalfont, is the dutiful wife of a man she does not love. Frank Cox is the man she falls in love with. Julia's husband, Richard, suspects her of an affair and has also dismissed an employee for theft.When a murderer strikes at Richard Elton, it starts a chain of events which affects the lives of many. And one of these is Inspector French.Trade Review“A detective novel by Mr. Wills Crofts is always an event to those who know… Mr. Crofts is among the few muscular writers of detective fiction. He has never let me down.”HAROLD NICHOLSON, DAILY EXPRESS

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Book SynopsisIntroducing spirited female sleuth Elizabeth Fairchild in the first of the brilliant new Oak Park village mystery series, set in 1920s Illinois. June, 1925. Having been widowed in the Great War, Elizabeth Fairchild lives a quiet life at the home of her wealthy parents in genteel Oak Park village, Illinois. Although she does her best to avoid emotional entanglements, determined never to be hurt again, Elizabeth forms a close friendship with gentle Mr Anthony, who owns the local antiques store.But tragedy strikes when Mr Anthony is found stabbed to death in the alley behind his shop. Why would anyone murder a mild-mannered antiques dealer who simply loved beautiful things? A robbery gone wrong? A gangland execution? Or could it have something to do with the mysterious customer who bought a gold pocket watch from Mr Anthony on the day he died? When one of her father''s oldest friends is accused of the crime, Elizabeth determines to expose the real killer. But her investigations soon attract unwelcome attention. With gangsters moving into the neighbourhood from nearby Chicago, Oak Park is no longer the safe haven it once was. Could Elizabeth be seriously out of her depth?

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Book SynopsisNow with a beautiful new series look, the indomitable Miss Marple investigates some rather deadly doings at a rehabilitation center for delinquents.Miss Marple senses danger when she visits a friend living in Stoneygates, a rehabilitation center for delinquents. Her fears are confirmed when someone shoots at the administrator. Although he is not injured, a mysterious visitor is less fortunate—shot dead simultaneously in another part of the building.Pure coincidence? Miss Marple thinks not, and must use all her cunning to solve the riddle of the stranger’s visit … and his murder.

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Book SynopsisThe second 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 CLEEVESWhen a visiting couple out on their yacht go missing from the Shetland oil capital of Brae, sailing skipper and amateur detective Cass Lynch is forced to ask her old adversary, DI Gavin Macrae, for help. His investigation brings to light surprising links to international art theft, and Macrae warns her to give this mystery a wide berth - but when one of her own sailing pupils disappears too, Cass can sit by no longer. As she sets out alone to explore a remote Neolithic tomb, Cass is unprepared for the secrets that lie buried there. Previously published as The

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

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Book SynopsisA cunning killer turns a wedding into a wake...Any wedding is a big deal in the County Cork village of Kilbane, but with a local lad marrying a famous fashion model at Kilbane Castle, there’s no talk of anything but the upcoming nuptials. Siobhán O’Sullivan and her five siblings have their plates full catering the three-day affair from their bistro. But the celebratory mood suddenly turns sober when the best man is found murdered in the woods.For Siobhán, the tragic turn is more than grist for the gossip mill. Her beau, Macdara Flannery, is the prime suspect – and she intends to clear his name. Now, like the bride walking down the aisle, Siobhán needs to watch her step. For as she gets closer to unveiling the truth, the murderer is planning a very chilly reception for her.An enthralling cosy village mystery set in County Cork, perfect for fans of Clare Chase and Margaret Mayhew.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewIf you're a crime fiction fan and haven't discovered them yet, welcome to the very best day of your life - Heat MagazineEve Dallas - tough as nails and still sexy as hell - Stephen KingJ.D. Robb's novels are can't-miss pleasures - Harlan CobenCurious corpses, tangled twists and one sizzling sleuth - Kathy ReichsTerrific characters, sudden twists ... the epitome of popular fiction - Dennis LehaneJ.D. Robb is one of my favourite authors, and she has created an iconic female cop - a strong, sexy, and death-defying heroine - with the slyest sense of humour in fiction. I love J.D. Robb and Eve Dallas! - Lisa ScottolineSexy and unpredictable, these books are first-rate suspense thrillers with wit, character and heart - Janet Evanovich

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Book Synopsis''Just the thing to chase the blues away'' M. C. BeatonSpring is in the air ... and so, too, is the sound of music as the residents of Honeychurch Hall are stunned to learn that the Dowager Countess Lady Edith Honeychurch has agreed to the staging of a production of The Merry Widow in the dilapidated grand ballroom.Fears that the fiercely private octogenarian must be going senile are soon dismissed when our heroine, Kat Stanford, learns that the favour is a result of a desperate request from Countess Olga Golodkin. As one of Edith''s oldest friends Olga is the director of the amateur Devon Operatic Dramatic Organization. Just a week before, D.O.D.O''s original venue was destroyed in a mysterious fire but since tickets have been sold, costumes made and lucrative local sponsorships secured, Olga is determined that the show must go on. After decades at the helm of D.O.D.O., The Merry Widow will be Olga''s swansong and she wants to go out wiTrade ReviewThe perfect classic English village mystery but with the addition of charm, wit and a thoroughly modern touch -- Rhys BowenDownton Abbey was yesterday. Murder at Honeychurch Hall lifts the lid on today's grand country estate in all its tarnished, scheming, inbred, deranged glory -- Catriona McPhersonWill delight fans and new readers alike * People's Friend *A fun read -- Carola DunnSparkles like a glass of Devon cider on a summer afternoon -- Elizabeth Duncan

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Book SynopsisThe latest installment in the crime series that inspired Big Sky. The ties that bind can burn you. Former investigator Cassie Dewell is trying to start over. But when an old friend calls in a favour, she can't refuse: a man has been accused of assaulting a young woman from an influential family, and he needs Cassie's help. Against her better judgment, Cassie agrees. But out by the Bitterroot mountains of Montana, twisted family loyalty runs as deep as the ties to the land, and there's always something more to the story. As Cassie attempts to uncover the truth, she must confront a family whose roots are tangled and deadly, and face the ghosts of her own past.Trade ReviewA non-stop, action-filled race against time. Rolling down the superhighway of suspense, this thriller will leave readers breathless * Crime Review *Heart-stoppingly good * Daily Mail *

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

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

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Book SynopsisJim Taylor, Sally Lockhart's oldest friend, is bodyguard to a princess. But Crown Princess Adelaide is not what you'd expect. She'sthe slum-girl Jim has been searching for ever since she vanishedten years ago. Now her life is in mortal danger, and together theymust battle against unknown enemies in a country where no onecan be trusted.

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Book SynopsisWinner of the CWA Gold Dagger Award for Best Crime Novel of the Year, The Scold's Bridle is the mystery thriller from crime queen Minette Walters. I wonder if I should keep these diaries under lock and key. Jenny Spede has disturbed them again . . . What does she make, I wonder, of an old woman, deformed by arthritis, stripping naked for a young man? The pills worry me more. Ten is such a round number to be missing . . . Mathilda Gillespie's body was found nearly two days after she had taken an overdose and slashed her wrists with a Stanley knife. But what shocked Dr Sarah Blakeney the most was the scold's bridle obscuring the dead woman’s face, a metal contraption grotesquely adorned with a garland of nettles and Michaelmas daisies. What happened at Cedar House in the tortured hours before Mathilda's death? The police assume that the coroner will return a verdict of suicide. Only Dr Blakeney, it seems, doubts the vTrade ReviewAn atmosphere of tantalizing, overpowering menace . . . The tradition of the English whodunnit has passed into the safe hands and dangerous imagination of Minette Walters. * The Times *

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