Crime and mystery: women sleuths / detectives

Book SynopsisThe twelfth book in the Kay Scarpetta series, from No. 1 bestselling author Patricia Cornwell. ''America''s most chilling writer of crime fiction'' The TimesAfter her resignation as Virginia''s Chief Medical Examiner and the horrifying events which threatened her life in The Last Precinct, Kay Scarpetta has abandoned her elegant home in Richmond and is quietly living in Florida, beginning to get some balance back in her life and slowly establishing herself as a private forensic consultant. But her past won''t let her rest, and her grief for Benton Wesley continues to grow, not diminish, as does the rage within Lucy, her niece. Then the architect of her changed fortunes contacts her from his cell on death row: deformed, blinded by Scarpetta''s own actions, incarcerated in Texas strongest prison, Jean-Baptiste Chardonne still has the ability to terrify. But, unknown to Scarpetta, there are other forces behind

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling, award-winning novelist Kate Saunders comes the first in The Laetitia Rodd Mysteries', six novels featuring a Victorian lady detective, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, M. C. Beaton and Grantchester''A Dickensian glow pervades this immensely satisfying novel. Hugely enjoyable' James Runcie, author of ''The Grantchester Mysteries''Mrs Laetitia Rodd is the impoverished widow of an Archdeacon, living modestly in Hampstead with her landlady Mrs Bentley. She is also a private detective of the utmost discretion. In winter 1850, her brother Frederick, a criminal barrister, introduces her to Sir James Calderstone, a wealthy and powerful industrialist who asks Mrs Rodd to investigate the background of an unsuitable' woman his son intends to marry a match he is determined to prevent. In the guise of governess, she travels to the family seat, Wishtide, deep in the frozen Lincolnshire countryside, where she soon discovers that the Calderstones have more to hide thaTrade Review'A Dickensian glow pervades this immensely satisfying novel. Hugely enjoyable’ * James Runcie, author of 'The Grantchester Mysteries' *Praise for Five Children on the Western Front Saunders has created a simply brilliant book ... beautifully crafted, funny, heart-breaking * Daily Mail *A skillful and deeply moving piece of work: poignant, beautifully judged, not a crass pastiche but a respectful homage … Saunders's novel does what fiction does best: it focuses on individuals we care about in order to make a universal point * Guardian *A skill and charm of its own, as well as compassion and conviction * Sunday Times *

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Book Synopsis** NOW SHORTLISTED FOR THE CWA INTERNATIONAL DAGGER**Gripping TatlerThe first in a thrilling new crime series set in Germany - the Black Forest Investigations Louise Boni, maverick chief inspector with the Black Forest crime squad, is struggling with her demons. Divorced at forty-two, she is haunted by the shadows of the past. Dreading yet another a dreary winter weekend alone, she receives a call from the departmental chief which signals the strangest assignment of her career - to trail a Japanese monk wandering through the snowy wasteland to the east of Freiburg, dressed only in sandals and a cowl. She sets off reluctantly, and by the time she catches up with him, she discovers that he is injured, and fearfully fleeing some unknown evil. When her own team comes under fire, the investigation takes on a terrifying dimension, uncovering a hideous ring of child traffickers. The repercussions of their crimes will change the coTrade ReviewAn exceptional crime novel. -- Kolja Mensing * TAZ *It's been a long time since any crime author started out so strongly, so visually. -- Tobias Gohlis * Die Zeit *Oliver Bottini, one of the few German authors who play in crime-writing's premier league, really knows how to tell a good story. * Frankfurter Rundschau *Tension without brutality, local colour without small-minded sentimentality, good intelligent reading with depth. -- Christine Hage * Handelsblatt *A piercing examination of our reality . . . Bottini uses the full potential of the genre to look deep into humanity's abyss and sees there the concealed traumas of German society -- Tomasz Kurianowicz * Die Zeit *Gripping. * Tatler. *The first of his award-winning Black Forest novels to appear in English. It has an arresting opening image: a Buddhist monk with a head injury strides across the snowy landscape of the border country between Germany and France . . . a surprising and genuinely shocking case. -- Joan Smith * The Sunday Times *A nicely done shock thriller * Weekend Sport *An atmospheric, original story that will keep you hooked tothe final heart-rending revelations * Crime Review *Bottini has established himself as a strong new voice in crime with this inventive mystery . . . The fictional landscape is beguiling and the story utterly gripping * Book Noir *With its cinematic writing style, its brilliant sense of location and its strong visual depiction of an inhospitable landscape, Zen provides an intelligent and engrossing crossover novel between a police procedural and the study of an individual's personal collapse -- Ewa Sherman * Riveting Reviews *

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Book Synopsis ***Discover your next reading obsession with Alex Gray''s Sunday Times bestselling Scottish detective series*** ***Don''t miss the latest from Alex Gray. Book 20 in the Lorimer series, QUESTIONS FOR A DEAD MAN, is out now and Book 21, OUT OF DARKNESS, is available to pre-order.*** Whether you''ve read them all or whether this is your first Lorimer novel, When Shadows Fall is perfect if you love Ian Rankin, Val McDermid and Ann Cleeves WHAT THEY''RE SAYING ABOUT THE LORIMER SERIES:''Warm-hearted, atmospheric'' ANN CLEEVES''Relentless and intriguing'' PETER MAY''Move over Rebus'' DAILY MAIL''Exciting, pacey, authentic'' ANGELA MARSONS''Superior writing'' THE TIMES''Immensely exciting and atmospheric'' ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH_______________DSI Lorimer is back with a brand new case. And the stakes haTrade ReviewA hallmark of Gray's writing is the cosy familiarity of the characters and worlds she conjures, while deftly weaving in the essential components of a gripping psychological thriller - suspense, twists and searing imagery - that will have you whipping through its pages * Glasgow Herald *Terrific * Peterborough Telegraph *It's no wonder the series has sold a million copies to date . . . Alex Gray's latest is a thoroughly enjoyable read from a writer at the top of her game. * Dundee Courier *Cleverly constructed, this tightly plotted story is a gripping read. Highly recommended. * Mystery People *Relentless and intriguing -- Peter May, bestselling author of the Lewis trilogy

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Book SynopsisMurder rearranges the Yuletide carols into unexpected eulogies...The O’Sullivans are spending Christmas in West Cork with brother James’s fiancée Elise’s family, including her grandfather, the famous orchestral conductor Enda Elliot. When they learn everyone will choose a name from a hat to buy a music-related Christmas gift for someone else at the gathering, it seems like their greatest concern–until the cantankerous conductor is discovered crushed under a ninety-pound harp in a local concert hall.With the extended family–including Enda’s much-younger new wife Leah, a virtuoso violinist–suspected in his murder, it’s up to Siobhán to ensure the guilty party faces the music. But as a snowstorm strands both families in a lavish farmhouse on a cliff, Siobhán had better pick up the tempo–before the killer orchestrates another untimely demise...A charming Christmas cosy mystery, perfect for fans of Margaret Mayhew and Dee Macdonald.

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Book SynopsisTHE ROYALLY BRILLIANT FOURTH BOOK IN THE HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN INVESTIGATES MYSTERY SERIES - NOW AVAILABLE TO IN HARDBACK, EBOOK AND AUDIOBOOK!________________1957 - Young Queen Elizabeth II is finding her way in a challenging world as the United Kingdom must adjust to having neither an empire nor a set place in post-war Europe.As she travels the world to try and build bridges, the Queen is advised by the 'men in moustaches', as Philip calls them - her father's old courtiers, who may or may not have her best interests at heart. One of them is trying to sabotage her: that much she is sure of.And then two bodies turn up, horribly murdered, in Chelsea, and the Queen finds herself unwillingly used as the alibi for somebody very close to her.Elizabeth knows she can't face these challenges alone. She needs support from someone clever, discreet and loyal, someone she can trust. Then she meets ex-Bletchley Park code breaker, Joan McGraw, and their investigation into the murders begins in earnest . . .PRAISE FOR THE 'HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN INVESTIGATES' SERIES:'A witty whodunit starring our very own HM The Queen as an amateur sleuth' - GOOD HOUSEKEEPING'A pitch-perfect murder mystery' - Ruth Ware'Written with wit and brio' - Daily Express'Miss Marple with a crown' - Daily Mirror'Absolute perfection!' - Isabelle Broom'Delightfully charming' - Adele Parks'Pure confection' - New York Times'Warm & witty' - Woman&Home'A delightful read' - BBC Radio 2'I loved it' - Joanne Harris'A total joy' - Nina Stibbe'Charming' - Guardian'What a hoot!' - SagaTrade ReviewA masterclass from start to finish. If cosy crime is your thing then A Death in Diamonds is like a warm bath of the genre. Pure class in every sense * IAN MOORE *Like a flawless gem, A Death In Diamonds has a perfect score on the '3 Cs': charm, character and comedy. I love it! * C J WRAY *I absolutely love this series. Once again S.J. Bennett returns to the gloriously original scenario of Queen Elizabeth II as an amateur sleuth, and once again it is a roaring success! A Death In Diamonds is a wonderful combination of meticulous research, beguiling characters (not least HMQ herself), excellent dialogue and a nifty mystery plot. Wonderful! * TOM MEAD, author of the Joseph Spector locked-room mysteries *A sparkling history-mystery, investigated by a delightful Marple of the monarchy. Another gem from S. J. Bennett * MARTIN EDWARDS *An absolute masterclass in detective fiction. Fiendishly clever and very witty, I adore this series. Can't wait for the next one * Victoria Dowd, author of The Smart Woman's Guide to Murder *Brilliant and clever ... A perfect way to while away the hours. Happy and glorious stuff indeed * My London *

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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 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 Synopsis**Don''t miss out on the gripping new thriller featuring Laughton Rees and Tannahill Khan, THE CLEARING OUT NOW**Count to three,' her mother told her, the last words she would ever speak.An Impossible Crime SceneA wealthy woman is found brutally murdered in the locked fortress of her London mansion. Surrounding her are four mysterious objects, including a book on forensics by Dr Laughton Rees.An Inescapable PastAs a teenager, Laughton's life was destroyed after witnessing her mother's brutal murder. Now a mother herself and forensic analyst, she is an expert on how to read crime scenes but never works live cases.An Uncatchable KillerPressured by the lead detective to help with the investigation, Laughton begins to realise that the objects left by the body are not just about the victim, they're also about her. Her childhood was destroyed by one killer. Now she must catch another before her daughter's is destroyed too.PRAISE FOR DARK OBJECTSThere are times when I read another author's Trade Review‘[A] haunting story that sends more than a shudder down the spine’ Daily Mail Best of the Year ‘[Simon Toyne] paints characters with such fine strokes that we can see every pore. It’s exquisite writing with ever-ratcheting tension.’ Tess Gerritsen in Observer ‘Gripping from first page to last, this is superb storytelling and it certainly sends a shudder down the spine.’ Mail Online ‘Clashing interests, an old case and intriguing and moving characters combine in this immensely readable novel that is, above all, about parenting.’ Library Review ‘This was a fun, crafty thriller… I love how he interwove a clever serial killer plot with a taught family drama. Definitely a one-sit read!’ Lisa Gardner, author of Before She Disappeared ‘An intense, compelling page-turner that is perfect for fans of Thomas Harris, from a hugely talented writer on top at the top of his game.’Steve Cavanagh, author of Thirteen ‘Simon Toyne knows his stuff, and in Dark Objects he puts it to excellent use, constructing a thrilling plot driven by intriguing, complex characters. The pacing is superb and as the suspense ratchets up you will find it impossible to put the book down.’Peter Robinson, author of Not Dark Yet ‘A stunning novel! Part wily procedural, part relentless psychological thriller, Dark Objects will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. And what a masterful voice, Toyne brings to his fiction!’Jeffery Deaver, author of Hunting Time and The Bone Collector ‘Simon Toyne, already one of the UK’s top thriller writers, really has outdone himself with Dark Objects. It’s intelligent, insanely paced and brimming with fresh ideas – I doubt I’ll read a better book this year.’M.W. CRAVEN, author of The Curator ‘Really enjoyed it! Compelling narrative. Intriguing, had me hooked from the get go.’Tim Sullivan, author of the DS Cross series

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Book SynopsisThe #1 bestseller and Queen of Thrillers is backA terrific story, originally told. All hail the new Queen of Crime!' HEATA web of a plot that twists and turns and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. This formidable debut is a page-turner, but don't read it before bed if you're easily spooked!' SUNTHE TRUTH WON'T STAY LOCKED UP FOREVERWhen a burned body is found in a disused signal box, suspicion falls on lonely teenager Gabriel Webb. There's no doubt he was at the scene of the crime, but does he really deserve what awaits him in prison?DS Imogen Grey is certain there's more to the case than meets the eye. But while she struggles to convince those around her of the truth, her partner DS Adrian Miles is distracted by his own demons.When a brutal double murder is reported, their investigation is stopped in its tracks. Is the body in the box even who they thought it was? The duo realise Gabriel might have been locked up for a crime he didn't commit. But with enemies watching GabrieTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR KATERINA DIAMOND ‘A deliciously dark read, Katerina Diamond keeps her readers guessing throughout as she leads us on a very secretive, VERY twisted journey…everything I was expecting from a well-written, pacy thriller.’ LISA HALL, AUTHOR OF BETWEEN YOU AND ME ‘A dark, twisting tale that won’t fail to captivate.’ MINT VELVET ‘This fluid tale about a girl being held hostage is relentless and uncompromisingly dark.’ HEAT ‘This gem of a crime novel is packed with twists until the last page.’ CLOSER ‘Wow, I thought THE TEACHER was fantastic but THE SECRET is on another level. Was gripped all the way through and kept me guessing as the story unfolded.’ NETGALLEY REVIEWER ‘Another grim and gory spider's web from Katerina Diamond – closely following on from THE TEACHER and not letting up on the twists and turns.’GOODREADS REVIEWER ‘An impeccable novel with nail biting chapters…Katerina Diamond deserves the title of Queen of Crime, because I'll be damned if anyone writes novels like she does. 5* doesn't do this book justice.’ THE BRUNETTE BOOKSHELF ‘Has the feeling of a nightmare come to life…’ LOVEREADING ‘The suspense is literally out of this world.’ COMPELLING READS ‘A dark and twisted tale that had me gasping in fear.’ HANDWRITTEN GIRL

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Book SynopsisThe stunning new thriller from international No.1 bestseller Karin Slaughter, author of Pieces of Her, now a major Netflix seriesA girl with a secretLongbill Beach, 1982. Emily Vaughn gets ready for prom night, the highlight of any high school experience. But Emily has a secret.And by the end of the evening, she will be dead.A murder that remains a mysteryForty years later, Emily's murder remains unsolved. Her friends closed ranks, her family retreated inwards, the community moved on. But all that's about to change.One final chance to uncover a killerAndrea Oliver arrives in town with a simple assignment: to protect a judge receiving death threats. But her assignment is a cover. Because, in reality, Andrea is here to find justice for Emily and to uncover the truth before the killer decides to silence her tooA Sunday Times No.1 bestseller for w/c 20/05/2018, 23/06/2019, 28/06/2020, and 04/07/2021This thriller delivers. It's twisty, touching and intense. I find it totally absorbing' AdeTrade Review‘This thriller delivers. It’s twisty, touching and intense. I find it totally absorbing’ Adele Parks, author of One Last Secret ‘This first-class detective thriller is a dark, sophisticated gem of a read’ Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal ‘An effortlessly accomplished thriller’ The Times Praise for Karin Slaughter ‘Heart-stopping one moment, heart-breaking the next’ Cara Hunter, author of All the Rage ‘Her heroines are believable, flawed and courageous’ Oyinkan Braithwaite, author of My Sister, The Serial Killer ‘Absorbing’ Sunday Times ‘I’d follow her anywhere’ Gillian Flynn ‘One of the boldest thriller writers working today’ Tess Gerritsen ‘Her characters, plot, and pacing are unrivalled’ Michael Connelly ‘Passion, intensity, and humanity’ Lee Child ‘A writer of extraordinary talents’ Kathy Reichs ‘Fiction doesn't get any better than this’ Jeffery Deaver ‘A great writer at the peak of her powers’ Peter James 'Karin Slaughter has – by far – the best name of all of us mystery novelists' James Patterson ‘It’s big, dark, rich, satisfying, and bloody – like a perfectly cooked steak’ Stuart MacBride ‘The queen of the explosive thriller’ Good Housekeeping ‘Rich characters and deft plotting make this an unputdownable story that will move you to the core. This is Slaughter's best yet’ Camilla Lackberg, author of the Fjallbacka series ‘A twisty, searingly contemporary mystery steeped in a dark past…catches your breath and keeps you gasping and guessing until the end’ Stacey Abrams, author of While Justice Sleeps ‘Karin Slaughter is a master of the thriller genre’ Francesca Momplaisir, author of My Mother’s House ‘Gripping, gruesome and emotionally powerful, this is Slaughter doing what she does best’ Mail on Sunday ‘As sharp and absorbing as ever’ Guardian ‘Slaughter’s novel is both a page-turner and a protest about how often sexual violence is overlooked’ Sunday Times

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Book SynopsisA red-hot, non-stop rollercoaster of a book' Lisa JewellWhat would you do if your husband framed you for murder?Five years ago, Olivia Sutherland was convicted of plotting to murder her husband.Now she's finally free, Olivia has three goals. Repair her relationship with her daughter. Clear her name. And bring down her husband the man who framed her.Just how far is she willing to go to get what she wants? And how far will her husband go to stop her?Because his lies run deeper than Olivia could ever have imagined and this time it's not her freedom that's in jeopardy, but her lifeYour favourite authors LOVE The Guilty Couple!Shot through with a propulsive sense of gritty threat and high-stakes tension, this is bold, memorable, top-tier thriller writing.' bestselling author B P WalterThe Guilty Couple is a one-breath rollercoaster ride, with twists, turns, ups and downs then just when you think it's over, there's another loop ahead! A proper, classy thriller.' Janice Hallett, Sunday TTrade Review FURTHER PRAISE FOR THE GUILTY COUPLE: ‘Domestic noir doesn’t get more nail-biting than this!’ Time Crime Club ‘A brilliantly written, fast-paced and very clever thriller – I couldn’t put it down!’ – Susi Holliday ‘Absolutely ripped through this belter of a story. A pacy plot full of her trademark twists, and characters that don’t leave your head until long after you finish the final pages. C.L. Taylor has smashed it out the park with this one.’ – Lisa Hall ‘Twisty and gripping – another brilliant book from C.L. Taylor.’ – Jane Fallon ‘With high stakes and a killer premise, The Guilty Couple takes the reader on a thrill ride of a journey. A perfectly paced and propulsive read, told with C.L. Taylor’s trademark instinct for edge-of-your-seat reveals.’ – Lucy Clarke 'When you sit down with this book, you won't be getting back up until it's finished. Fast-paced, fun, packed with twists, this is a gem of a read.' – Jo Spain ‘Pacy, surprising and with some brilliant twists – C.L. Taylor's best yet. Brilliant.’ – Catherine Cooper ‘Compelling. Compulsive. Crafted. Cleverly calculated.’ – Jane Corry ‘A clever, suspenseful story about secrets, blurred boundaries and a whole lot of betrayal. C.L. Taylor is a master at writing twisty thrillers, and this one is no exception.’ – Samantha Downing ‘Wow! Packed with ever-increasing suspense, vivid characters and twists that’ll give you whiplash, it’s one hell of a read. Utterly brilliant!’ – Steph Broadribb ‘A one-sitting read. Breathless pacing from the opening chapter to its twisty turny conclusion. Taylor is a writer at the top of her game and never disappoints.’ – John Marrs ‘Cancel your appointments, kick off your shoes and get comfortable. There’s a new C.L. Taylor book in town – and it’s a corker.’ – Cass Green

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Book Synopsis⭐ The unputdownable new thriller from Mandy Byatt that will leave you reeling after the final twist…⭐ She knows him better than anyone. She doesn’t know him at all… Trade ReviewPraise for Mandy Byatt: 'Clever and pacy, with a shocking twist that hits you between the eyes. Guaranteed to create plenty of discussion at book clubs’ AMANDA BROOKE ‘With devious characters aplenty, The Younger Woman is an explosive thriller with a killer twist’ RUBY SPEECHLEY 'An original, twisty and suspenseful debut’ ROZ WATKINS ‘Characters that stay in your mind long after you read, skin-crawling bad guys and smart twists - it seems amazing that Just Another Liar is a debut, it’s so accomplished’ CAROLINE CORCORAN ‘Three women's lives entwine in a web of secrets and lies in this gripping, original debut novel – full of sharp characterisation and breath-taking suspense. I couldn't stop reading’ LUCI BEACH

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Book SynopsisDon't miss the captivating new page-turner from Sunday Times bestselling author Susan LewisYou think you know your neighbours.When Jeannie Symonds vanishes without a trace, her small town is thrown into disarray.You think you know who to trust.Cara Jakes, a trainee investigator, begins to interview Jeannie's friends and neighbours, sure that someone has something to hide. Behind every door is a different story.But how can you separate the truth from the lies?An immersive page-turner, filled with shocks, twists and vivid characters. I was completely captivated' B.P. WalterTrade Review‘An immersive page-turner, filled with shocks, twists and vivid characters. I was completely captivated’ B.P. Walter 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

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Book SynopsisMatilda Darke is backAPRIL 2020: LOCKDOWNDI Brady has been tracing victims of systemic abuse at a local children's home after a high-profile accusation pitched it into the spotlight a case that couldn't be more personal.As Matilda and her team piece together the disturbing picture of the history of the home, it soon becomes clear that this is much bigger than they ever suspected.But nothing prepares them for what they uncover nextThe Lost Children is an utterly gripping crime thriller weaving a breakneck tale of a vast network of secrets and lies, a relentless detective determined to sabotage it, and a murder that shatters two decades of silence.Praise for the DCI Matilda Darke Series:Tense, twisty, emotional and gripping. Will definitely be reading more from Matilda Darke and this gets a huge 5 stars from me!' Angela MarsonsMatilda Darke is an excellent character' BA ParisThis explosive novel is already making a bang with reviewers comparing Michael's work to that of his heroes Val Trade ReviewPraise for Michael Wood: ‘A tense, nail-biting story with a truly twisted ending’ Katerina Diamond “An established master of the serial killer novel takes us on another dangerous journey through the streets of Sheffield. Watch out for those twists – you won't see them coming!” Stephen Booth ‘A gritty and atmospheric thriller with more twists and turns than a hangman's knot. I loved it’ Matt Hilton ‘Solid storytelling and great unravelling of plot. Michael Wood ups the pace as the noose tightens’ Rachel Sargeant ‘Taut, twisting and sharp as a blade, The Hangman’s Hold wrong-footed me at every, devious turn’ Chris Whitaker 'Wood hit the ground running with For Reasons Unknown, first in the DCI Matilda Darke series. In the fourth instalment, The Hangman's Hold, he picks up the pace again with a twisting plot that races to a nail-biting finish’ Chris Simms ‘Bites into you like the rough twine of a hangman’s noose and refuses to let go. Tautly plotted, brilliantly realised, this is further proof that Michael Wood is only going to get better and better. The Hangman’s Hold is going to be big…’ Neil Broadfoot Praise for Michael Wood: ‘You can count on Michael Wood to deliver a deliciously twisted and intriguing plot, leading to a surprise ending by a likeable and very real protagonist, Matilda Darke’ Yrsa Sigurdardottir ‘She is the perfect heroine’ Elly Griffiths ‘A pitch-black concept, tightly delivered and played at exhilarating pace’ Paul Finch ‘Crackling dialogue, dark wit and an exciting ending. Recommended if you liked Happy Valley’ Mark Edwards ‘DCI Matilda Darke is going places’ James Oswald ‘A compelling, addictive read, it’s hard to put down. I really enjoyed getting to know DCI Matilda Darke. She's strong character with real depth’ Robert Bryndza, bestselling author of THE GIRL IN THE ICE ‘A beautifully written book with a dark heart and a secret that impacts on generations’ Sarah Ward

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Book SynopsisA haunting mystery for fans of Eve Chase, Dinah Jefferies and Kate Mosse.A poignant page-turning story, beautifully written' Leonora Nattrass, author of Blue Water'Hugely evocative and beautifully written' Anna Mazzola, author of The Clockwork Girl'Polly Crosby's writing is exquisite and this latest book is every bit as evocative as her previous novels' My Weekly Top pick of the month May 2023 A thoroughly compelling mystery meets a poignant love story, all wrapped up in beautifully lyrical writing' Frances Quinn, author of The Smallest ManA beguiling mystery from a gifted storyteller' Louise Fein, author of People Like Us1938: Lady Vita Goldsborough lives in the menacing shadow of her controlling older brother, Aubrey. But when she meets local artist Dodie Blakeney, the two women form a close bond, and Vita finally glimpses a chance to be free.1997: Following the death of her mother, Eve Blakeney returns to the coast where she spent childhood summers with her beloved grandmother, Dodie. Eve hopes that the visit will help make sense of her grief. The last thing she expects to find is a bundle of letters that hint at the heart-breaking story of Dodie's relationship with a woman named Vita, and a shattering secret that echoes through the decades.What she discovers will overturn everything she thought she knew about her family and change her life forever.Luminous and captivating Polly Crosby's shimmering writing veils a dark hint of the gothic' Kate Griffin, author of FyneshadeWhat readers are saying about Vita and the Birds''A beautiful and haunting tale of family, love, control and connections. This book and its characters will stay with me for a long time'' Netgalley reviewer''A lush and evocative novel of loss and forbidden love'' Netgalley reviewer''Beautifully written, a dark and moody yet intriguing story'' Netgalley reviewer''An extraordinary book that I read in a 4 hour straight session without stopping for food or drink . . . A spellbinding read'' Netgalley reviewerTrade Review Praise for Vita and the Birds ‘An evocatively written, haunting tale that has historic epic written all over it’ Belfast Telegraph ‘An elegant yet earthy tale dancing between two timelines and two women trapped within the memories of the past’LoveReading.co.uk Picks of the Month May 2023 ‘A beautifully written, haunting story of love and tragedy’ Womans’ Weekly Praise for Polly Crosby ‘Polly Crosby whips up a lush, mythical world . . . realised beautifully in vivid writing. A book worm’s treat!’ Eve Chase, author of The Glass House ‘[A] gem of a read’ Good Housekeeping ‘Like a surreal cabinet of curiosities – haunting, eerie, evocative.’ Bridget Collins, author of The Binding ‘A captivating coming-of-age story with memorable characters beautifully brought to life in a setting dripping with atmosphere’ Daily Mail ‘A luminous and beautiful novel that gently lures the reader into a captivating story with a mystery at its heart.’ Jennifer Saint, author of Ariadne ‘This moving tale is set in a mesmerising world. Like a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis, the story emerges slowly, allowing you to immerse yourself in its wonders.’ Heat ‘A beautifully written tale of butterflies, secrets and silk’ Sonia Velton, author of Blackberry and Wild Rose ‘Dreamy image after image . . . like a series of beautiful paintings’ Sara Sheridan, author of The Fair Botanists ‘A bewitching read' Woman & Home 'Evocative and enchanting – a future classic and a star in the making' Sunday Times bestselling author Veronica Henry ‘An extraordinary debut… beautiful, dark, haunting and unforgettable… I loved it’ Edward Carey, author of Little ‘A promising debut novel … full of atmospheric tension’ Mail on Sunday

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Book SynopsisDon't miss the brand-new installment in the fantastic Stamford Mysteries series! Perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Richard Osman.Who knew a harmless town fair could be so polarising or so deadly?When auctioneer Felicia Grant's best friend, Stamford Mayor Cassandra Lane, talked her into helping with the town's annual Georgian Fair, she expected the worst she'd have to endure was the corset. But when the fair's headline speaker turns up dead in the hook-a-duck pool, and more murders follow in quick succession, she finds herself investigating a serial killer for the second time in less than a year and this time the stakes are even higherCosy crime readers are loving E.C. Bateman:Ideal for fans of Richard Osman's books this murder mystery will keep you guessing as the bodies stack up! Full of red herrings, twists and turns, wonderful characters and fabulous houses.' ?????Set in the historic town of Stamford, this murder set in the antiques trade is a brilliantly plotted mystery.' ?????Trade Review‘A fun read that kept me reading through to the end … certainly held my attention with a group of interesting characters, any one of which might have been a multiple murderer’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The action at an auction is truly inspired…I don't live too far from Stamford and I love the idea that its sleepy yet glorious appearance hides some nefarious goings on’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Love how punchy the start of this is…up there in terms of close knit communities, tension and surprises aplenty’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisA letter from beyond the graveOne last requestAn unsolvable crimeWhen Miss Marple receives a letter from the recently deceased millionaire Jason Rafiel, she's not sure what to make of it.Knowing her deductive skills, he challenges her to solve a crime. If she does so, she will inherit 20,000.The only problem is that he has failed to mention who was involved, or where, and when the crime was committed. Jane Marple is intrigued.Never underestimate Miss MarpleSorry Poirot, but I'm team Marple every time. A mind to rival the great Sherlock Holmes and much handier with a knitting needle yet patronised and underestimated by those around her, her invisibility is her superpower. That and her uncanny understanding of the darkest depths of human nature . . .'Lucy FoleyHer gift is pure genius.'ObserverTrade 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

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Book SynopsisTHE HEART-STOPPING NOVEL OF A MISSING PERSON''S CASE WITH A TWIST FROM THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR''A cleverly crafted, emotional and thought-provoking thriller with one of the best twists I've read. Superb'' CLAIRE DOUGLAS''Extraordinary...a plot that takes the breath away'' DAILY MAIL________OLIVIA.22 years old.Last seen on CCTV, entering a dead-end alley.And not coming back out again.Missing for one day and counting . . .Julia is the detective heading up the case. She knows what to expect. A desperate family, a ticking clock, and long hours away from her husband and daughter. But Julia has no idea how close to home it''s going to get.Because there''s a man out there. And his weapon isn''t a gun, or a knife: it''s a secret. Her worst one.He tells her that her family''s safety depends on one thing: Julia must NOT find out what happTrade ReviewI've been known to create a few plot twists in my time, but there was a point during JUST ANOTHER MISSING PERSON where I sat up and shouted in shock. Gillian McAllister stunned me . . . and she will stun you too. I dare you to not ingest this in one sitting -- JODI PICOULT, No 1 New York Times bestselling authorMcAllister piles twist on startling twist, but always in the service of carefully drawn characters with real human problems. A first class thriller * Mail on Sunday *A clever and ingeniously plotted thriller with a series of jaw-dropping twists that made this reader gasp out loud. Fresh from the success of last year's bestselling Wrong Place Wrong Time, McAllister has delivered another stunning novel certain to delight * Daily Express *Amazingly good -- MARIAN KEYESGillian McAllister is a writer at the top of her game and Just Another Missing Person is another cleverly crafted, emotional and thought provoking thriller with one of the best twists I’ve read. Superb -- CLAIRE DOUGLASExtraordinary...a plot that takes the breath away * Daily Mail *Another sure fire hit, we expect excellence from McAllister and she delivers -- ADELE PARKSA gasp-inducing twist we wager you won't see coming, a whip-smart, fast-paced plot, this crime thriller will leave you breathless * Sunday Post *Another masterpiece from the queen of the emotional thriller. This book has one of the best twists I've ever come across. It's a super-smart detective story, a gripping missing-person thriller and a powerful mother-daughter drama, all rolled into one beautiful novel -- Beth O'LearyA deftly plotted police procedural with a shocking twist * Red *An impossible dilemma . . . will keep you gripped * Best *Another fantastic, gripping McAllister read, ideal for the summer weeks ahead. * Glamour *An involving, cracking story, filled with tension * Literary Review *The new queen of the what-would-you-do crime thriller is back with a tightly-plotted and twist-packed tale which will send your head spinning and have you asking how far you would go to protect your child. Be prepared to read it twice and kick yourself [for] the clever clues you missed the first time round! -- Ellery Lloyd, bestselling author of The Club[An] intricately plotted, unexpected thriller * Good Housekeeping *A chilling mystery * i paper *Jaw-droppingly good * Sun on Sunday *That. Twist. You will gasp out loud and question everything you've read so far... with Just Another Missing Person, Gillian McAllister has secured her crown as the queen of the mind-bending plot twist. -- HOLLY SEDDONIngenuously plotted * Guardian *Praise for Wrong Place, Wrong Time * - *It's perfection, every word, every moment. A masterpiece . . . I had my mind blown apart. After I finished it I sat with my mouth hanging open in awe. One of the best books I've ever read * Lisa Jewell *A spellbinding 'whydunnit'. A novel with a difference. Richly layered * Sunday Times *It's absolutely AMAZING. The plot is astonishing - original and ingenious * Marian Keyes *Extraordinary and Sinister. The mystery overlaps with blackmail and revenge in a dark and convoluted plot that takes the breath away. * Daily Mail *A stunning, clever and ingeniously plotted thriller with jaw-dropping gasp out loud twists * The Sunday Express *

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Book SynopsisCritically acclaimed queen of psychological crime Sophie Hannah''s fifth suspense novel - a must-read for those who love Clare Mackintosh and Paula Hawkins.''Beautifully written'' Daily Express''Terrifying'' Heat Murder begins at home . . . TV producer Fliss Benson receives an anonymous card at work. The card has sixteen numbers on it, arranged in four rows of four - numbers that mean nothing to her.On the same day, Fliss finds out she''s going to be working on a documentary about miscarriages of justice involving cot-death mothers wrongly accused of murder. The documentary will focus on three women: Helen Yardley, Sarah Jaggard and Rachel Hines. All three women are now free, and the doctor who did her best to send them to prison for life, child protection zealot Dr Judith Duffy, is under investigation for misconduct. For reasons she has shared with nobody, this is the last project Fliss wants to bTrade ReviewWhen it comes to ingenious plots that twist and turn like a fairground rollercoaster few writers can match Sophie Hannah * Daily Express *This book's triumph is that it is not just a perfectly executed psychological thriller, but a pertinent meditation on society itself * Guardian *A remarkable novel, and an adventure to read . . . a first-class whodunnit that will keep you reading long into the night * Scotsman *Hannah is a master of intense psychological thrillers . . . Full of twists and turns, and terrifying, too * Heat *Enthrallingly Complex * Sunday Times *Hannah takes domestic scenarios, adds disquieting touches and turns up the suspense until you're checking under the bed for murders . . . it's this real-life research that helps make it so convincing - and so unsettling * Independent *Sophie Hannah has quickly established herself as a doyenne of the 'home horror' school of psychological tension, taking domestic situations and wringing from them dark, gothic thrills . . . Combining probability theory, poetry and murder, this is a densely plotted suspenser with a coded puzzle that would grace a Golden Age mystery * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisTHE TWELFTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES'' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIESThe one where Mma Makutsi gets married . . . As the countdown to Mma Makutsi''s big day begins, Violet Sephotho, her former rival for the affections of Phuti Radiphuti, is up to no good as usual. And will Mma Makutsi bury her differences with pushy Mma Potokwani, who has offered to help with the wedding feast?Meanwhile Mma Ramotswe is called away on a case at a southern cattle post, and Charlie has again got himself in a bit of bother with a young lady. At least they all have the happy occasion to look forward to . . .

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Book SynopsisTHE THIRTEENTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES'' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIESThe one where Mma Ramotswe meets her hero . . . Mma Ramotswe, normally a peaceful sleeper, finds her slumbers disturbed by dreams of a tall stranger - but she is not quite ready to learn what this vision portends.Soon even Mma Makutsi has to admit that untoward things are occurring around the No. 1 Ladies'' Detective Agency: at Speedy motors, Fanwell finds himself in trouble with the law, and the indomitable Mma Potokwani disappears from the orphan farm. Armed with courage, kindness and an instinct for the truth, Mma Ramotswe sets out to restore order . . .

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Book SynopsisFiona Barton's debut, The Widow, was a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller, and has been published in thirty-seven countries and optioned for television. Her second novel, The Child, and her third, The Suspect, were both bestsellers. Born in Cambridge, Fiona currently lives on the south coast in West Sussex.Previously, she was a senior writer at the Daily Mail, news editor at the Daily Telegraph, and chief reporter at the Mail on Sunday, where she won Reporter of the Year at the British Press Awards.While working as a journalist, Fiona reported on many high-profile criminal cases and developed a fascination with watching those involved, their body language and verbal tics. She interviewed people at the heart of these crimes, from the guilty to their families, as well as those on the periphery, and found it was those just outside the spotlight who interested her most...Trade ReviewFiona Barton is a brilliant storyteller, a master of plot and character. I absolutely loved this smart, twisty novel! * Shari Lapena *In the community of Ebbing, Fiona Barton has created a town full of suspense and a cast of characters with so many reasons to keep secrets buried deep. A dark and twisty read. * Nita Prose, bestselling author of THE MAID *Tense and full of reveals and twists. This compulsively dark mystery is a joy to read. Fiona Barton never disappoints! * Lesley Kara, bestselling author of THE RUMOUR *'I am a huge Fiona Barton fan and she just keeps getting better! I was completely swept up in this story of a seaside town full of dark secrets - the pace was perfect, the characters so skilfully drawn and the ending was masterful. I loved it!' * Katherine Faulkner, bestselling author of GREENWICH PARK *A fab, twisty-turny mystery * The Sun *

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Book SynopsisA man is locked inside an abandoned house - but he's not the only one. This atmospheric, edge-of-your-seat rural crime starring local detective Eira Sjodin will keep you guessing till the end.

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Book SynopsisAn invitation you can''t refuse. You should . . .When shy, lonely Ivy meets a woman who claims to be her long-lost sister, she knows it''s too good to be true. She decides to trust Kate anyway. She wants a family. She wants someone to love.She''s making a mistake. Ivy enters Kate''s fairytale cottage, deep in the heart of Scotland . . . and she doesn''t come out. She''s the first to go missing.She won''t be the last.Meanwhile, in another part of the forest, Tash''s journey is just beginning . . .Multi-award-winning master of suspense Catriona McPherson is back with an ominous, twisty psychological thriller set in contemporary Scotland that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

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Book SynopsisDeadly drinks, vicious gangsters, missing money . . . Reluctant sleuth Maddie Pastore is back with a bang, in the second Mystic''s Accomplice historical mystery set in 1920s Chicago.Miley''s storytelling skills do justice to her clever, gutsy, and endearing protagonist. This is a real treat for readers who love stories set in the Roaring ''20s- Publishers Weekly Starred Review December, 1924. Young widow Maddie Pastore feels fortunate to be employed by the well-meaning but fraudulent medium Carlotta Romany. Investigating Carlotta''s clients isn''t work she''s proud of, but she''s proud of how well she does it. Maddie''s talents, however, draw them unwelcome attention: sharp-eyed Officer O''Rourke from the Chicago Police. He doesn''t believe in spiritualism - but in a city packed with mobsters, con artists and criminals, he''ll take any help he can get. It''s not long before Maddie has a case to bring him. Why did tee

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Book SynopsisWhen an ''unofficial'' relative of Alan''s arrives from the States, Dorothy and Alan are drawn into a tangled web of murder and lies.Dorothy Martin is more than capable of dozing during a raging storm in her snug house in Sherebury, but the loud ping of an unexpected text on her husband Alan''s phone quickly wakes her up. Alan''s unofficial great-niece, Lucy Bowman, is coming over from the States for a conference.When Lucy arrives, she gushes about her fiancé, Iain. But Alan makes a disturbing discovery about Lucy''s engagement ring, and no sooner has Iain set foot on UK soil when he''s the victim of a mysterious hit-and-run. Was it an accident, or murder? Drawn into the police investigation, Dorothy learns that Iain was not all he seemed to be, and uncovers a shocking trail of deceit. Can she separate fact from fiction to untangle a deadly web of lies?

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Book SynopsisDr Margaret Murray, accomplished archaeologist, and occasional sleuth, calls upon her police connections to investigate who may want to see the Edwardian mediums of London dead. Known for her sharp mind and quick wit, Margaret decides to infiltrate one of the spiritualists circles to narrow down the list of suspects. But soon the killer has Margaret in their sights! Can she capture the culprit and avoid passing beyond the veil?

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Book SynopsisA young woman with a pushchair spotted teetering on the edge of a steep rock face on the Staffordshire moors draws Joanna Piercy into a disturbing new case.A young woman is moving dangerously close to the edge of the rock face, pushing a stroller with a child strapped in it towards the steep drop. She has blood on her clothes. Is she a victim or a would-be killer?Detective Inspector Joanna Piercy takes on the case when a walker discovers the pair, but the young woman is mute. Is she traumatized or unwilling to speak? Was she about to commit a terrible crime?As the questions mount, forensic psychiatrist Dr Claire Roget is called in to help. Can she persuade the woman to talk? Joanna desperately needs a breakthrough. But when it comes, her investigation takes a shocking turn . . .

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Book SynopsisTravel agent Campbell Hale''s first boyfriend is back in Nashville for their high-school reunion - but murder, rather than love, is in the air . . .Fans of Diane Mott Davidson and Donna Andrews will enjoy this new series - BooklistTravel agent Campbell Hale might be flying solo at her twentieth-year school reunion, but that doesn''t mean she''s looking for love. Her almost boyfriend, homicide detective Sam Davis, has stood her up, with the terrible excuse that he has a murder to investigate.So when she runs into her high-school sweetheart, Franklin Fly Young, who makes a point of telling her his marriage is in trouble, she''s not interested - but she can''t help but feel nostalgic. And more to the point, Fly is now a tech millionaire, and he has good news: he''d like her to take on his company''s travel account.But then Campbell discovers the identity of Detective Davis'' murder victim: Fly''s company accountant. Was his de

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Book SynopsisHow can Dorothy Martin clear an elderly woman of murder, when she can''t remember if she did it or not?American Anglophile Dorothy Martin and her husband, retired chief constable Alan Nesbit, are enjoying a pleasant, albeit rain-soaked, stay in the historic university city of Durham with their old friend David Tregarth. Castle tours and cathedral services fill their days as they wander up and down the steep, cobbled lanes of the medieval city. But the holiday comes to an abrupt halt when David''s elderly great-aunt is accused of the murder of a fellow patient at her nursing home. How could a frail dementia sufferer commit such a terrible deed? Dorothy is determined to prove Aunt Amanda''s innocence, and launches into an unofficial investigation. But as she and David navigate their way amongst reckless students, inefficient police work and witnesses who have lost the ability to remember, the investigation soon becomes as twisty, slippery and treacherous as the damp cobblestones outside . . .

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Book SynopsisActress Enora Andressen must find a killer, and there''s no script to guide her . . .Carrie Tollman awakes in the middle of the night with an intruder gazing down at her. He''s young. He seems crazy. He tells her he''s killed before and he''ll kill again. One word about what''s happened, and he''ll be back. Carrie is one of two carers looking after Enora Andressen''s favorite scriptwriter. But Pavel is now paralysed, as well as blind, and it falls to Enora to track down this terrifying presence at Carrie''s bedside.Enora''s journey takes her deep into the netherworld of homelessness, neglect, and the unaddressed torments of people - young and old - failing to cope with their demons. Nothing has ever prepared her for this . . .

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Book SynopsisIn the tenth Bailey Ruth ghost novel from New York Times bestselling Grand Master of Mystery, Carolyn Hart, the charmer of a detective (Kirkus Reviews) takes on a puzzler of a mystery when she''s sent to Adelaide, Oklahoma to rescue a woman in trouble.The late - as in Dearly Departed - Bailey Ruth Raeburn is delighted when she''s assigned a new mission by Heaven''s Department of Good Intentions, even if she is no good at following the rules for Earthly Visitations. This time she''s determined to be the perfect unseen emissary, no matter what it takes.Arriving late in the evening in her old hometown of Adelaide, Oklahoma to find a woman drowning in a pond, Bailey Ruth carries out a daring rescue with textbook invisible effort. But Bailey Ruth soon realizes there''s more to Fran''s accident than a late-night walk gone wrong. The young widow was running away - but what from?Soon Bailey Ruth finds herself ca

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Book SynopsisROBERTA KRAY'S 15th BOOK. NO ONE KNOWS CRIME LIKE KRAY.The new gripping gangland crime novel: STOLEN, the sequel to SURVIVOR. Trade ReviewA cracking good read * Jessie Keane *A cracking good read -- Jessie KeaneWell into Martina Cole territory * Independent *Well into Martina Cole territory * Independent *Great writing, gripping story, loved it! -- Mandasue HellerAction, intrigue and a character-driven plot . . . sure to please any crime fiction fans * Woman *Action, intrigue and a character-driven plot . . . sure to please any crime fiction fans * Woman *Gripping * Daily Express *Gripping -- Daily ExpressA compelling mystery -- Heather BurnsideA gripping page-turner -- Kerry BarnesRoberta is an excellent writer, and this tale of a widow hunting for her errant husband in the post-war East End underworld fairly rattles along. * Choice *

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Book SynopsisSometimes marriage can be a killer...Usually hot on the heels of various miscreants, bounty hunter Stephanie Plum finds herself with a suspicious stalker in Twelve Sharp, the wildest novel yet in Janet Evanovich''s Stephanie Plum series. Not to be missed by fans of Lee Child and JD Robb.Praise for Evanovich: ''Evanovich is a clever writer with a strong streak of laugh out loud sardonic humour'' (Melbourne Weekly); ''Non-stop laughs with plenty of high jinks'' (USA Today); ''As smart and sassy as high gloss wet paint'' (Time Out).Just when it seems Stephanie Plum''s life may be calming down, a new threat turns up: the wife of her mentor Ranger. Only it seems this wife isn''t everything she says, and with Plum''s usual protector in danger, Stephanie might actually have to look after Ranger for once.Problem is Stephanie''s on-again-off-again boyfriend, and Trenton cop, Joe Morelli already isn''t too please

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Book SynopsisHad everyone bitten tonight caught this? The other bites had not looked like vampire bites. They''d been zombie, or human looking. Was this infection something that vampires and shapeshifters could catch? If it was, then it was something new. Some zombies are raised. Others must be put down. Just ask me, Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter. Before now, I figured I could handle them. Before now, I had never heard of any of them causing human beings to perish in agony. But that''s all changed. Micah''s estranged father lies dying, rotting away inside from some strange ailment that has his doctor''s whispering about ''zombie disease''.I make my living from zombies - but these aren''t the kind I know so well. These creatures hunt in daylight, and are as fast and strong as vampires. If they bite you, you become just like them. And round and round it goes ... Where will it stop? Even I don''t know.

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Book SynopsisThe dark, atmospheric, feminist offspring of The Hunting Party, Squid Game and Misery. Trade Review'A wild ride from page one... A five-star read that’s intelligent, accomplished and exciting. I dare you to put it down.' Janice Hallett, author of The Twyford Code'Horror builds slowly to a chilling climax in Julia Bartz's best-selling debut.’ Daily Mail, Must Reads'Julia Bartz’s shrewd, suspenseful debut takes the typical writer’s anxieties and obsessions and transforms them into a pulse-pounding, impossible to put down thriller... Bonkers in the best way, and it left me with a brutal case of author envy.' Layne Fargo, author of They Never Learn'A wild ride into the pressures of publishing that is equal parts nightmare and erotic fantasy as five would-be writers are pulled deeper into the secrets of Blackbriar and its inhabitants... Captures the hunger to have our stories told and the desperate measures some will take to cut through the noise.' Jennifer Fawcett, author of Beneath The Stairs' A sexy, thrilling, compulsive mediation on art and competition amongst women who ought to be sisters, only something malignant gets in the way. I couldn't put it down.' Sarah Langan, author of Good Neighbours'Night Film meets The Secret History in Julia Bartz’s bold, brilliant, and genuinely scary debut. The Writing Retreat masterfully delivers everything thriller readers crave: palpable atmosphere, sinister characters, full-body chills, jaw-dropping twists, and stay-up-all-night suspense. I am obsessed with this book. I never wanted it to end.' Megan Collins, author of The Family Plot‘Darkly satirical and action-packed, The Writing Retreat brings a breath of fresh air to the locked room mystery... The writing is flawless and the plot adeptly woven. An absolutely splendid debut!’ Wendy Walker, author of Don't Look For Me‘The Writing Retreat will keep you up all night with its intriguing premise and gasp-worthy twists... The very definition of a page turner, and a remarkable debut from a gifted writer.’ Kirthana Ramisetti, author of Dava Shastri's Last Day'An audacious psychological thriller debut... Boldly drawn characters complement Bartz’s gleefully twisted plot.... Sara Gran fans, take note.' Publishers Weekly 'One to Watch.' Evening Standard'Propulsive and spine-chilling, The Writing Retreat kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. Julia Bartz is an electric, intelligent storyteller, brilliantly blending nail-biting suspense and razor-sharp psychological insight. I could not put this book down!' Erin Carlson, author of I'll Have What She's Having'The book's pacing - a slow roll of dread and horror, especially in the first half - is exceptional. Bartz hits all the gothic highlights, but, far from feeling stale, they work. A perfect winter night's haunting.' Kirkus, starred review'Stomach-clenchingly thrilling from beginning to end... Highly recommended for fans of authors like Ruth Ware and Riley Sager.' Booklist, starred review‘An intoxicating, inclusive psychological thriller, packed with chills that seep into your bones.’ Crime Monthly‘Intelligent, accomplished and exciting… and a lot more besides. Read it and see. You won’t regret it.’ Mystery People'An impressive first novel by a new American author combines all the heady thrills of the best of domestic thrillers with a closed environment murder setting, peppered with a gently satirical look at writers and writing... An ebullient, fun cocktail of in-jokes, gothic turns and breathless suspense that had me chortling.' Maxim Jakubowski, Crime Time

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Book Synopsis2024 SUE GRAFTON MEMORIAL AWARD WINNERChief of Police Kate Burkholder investigates the brutal death of a young Amish man in An Evil Heart, the latest installment of the bestselling series by Linda Castillo.On a crisp autumn day in Painters Mill, Chief of Police Kate Burkholder responds to a call only to discover an Amish man who has been violently killed with a crossbow, his body abandoned on a dirt road. Aden Karn was just twenty years old, well liked, and from an upstanding Amish family. Who would commit such a heinous crime against a young man whose life was just beginning? The more Kate gets to know his devastated family and the peopleboth English and Amishwho loved him, the more determined she becomes to solve the case. Aden Karn was funny and hardworking and looking forward to marrying his sweet fiancé, Emily. All the while, Kate's own wedding day to Tomasetti draws near... But as she delves into Karn's past, Kate begins

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Book Synopsis''Thrilling, chilling, heart-stopping . . . impossible to put down'' CHRIS WHITAKER''Terrifying, dark and original with a brilliantly shocking ending - loved this book'' CATHERINE COOPER ''Non-stop thrills. Perhaps the best psychological thriller I''ve read'' 5* READER REVIEW ''A full-tilt thriller . . . original, timely and very clever. Lia''s best yet!'' EMILY FREUD ''Bristles with dread and threat it is not for a dark autumn night'' DAILY MAIL''Fast-paced and topical . . . a total page-turner'' ALLIE REYNOLDS WELCOME TO THE CONFESSION ROOM.An online forum for admitting your sins.Some people confess to affairs, others to stealing. Some admit deep, dark wishes. And former police officer Emilia Haines, reading strangers'' secrets is the perfect distraction from the past.But one day, Emilia stumbles on the darkest confession yet:MURDER.Trade ReviewA thrilling, chilling, heart-stopping read. With a killer premise and twists that leave you shaken, The Confession Room is impossible to put down -- Chris Whitaker, author of We Begin at the EndBristles with dread and threat – it is not for a dark autumn night * Daily Mail *Gripping * Heat *Terrifying, dark and original with a brilliantly shocking ending - loved this book -- Catherine Cooper, bestselling author of The CruiseLia Middleton's latest crime thriller gives us a glimpse of the dark side of the web - and it's terrifying! Fast-paced and topical, The Confession Room is a total page-turner! -- Allie Reynolds, author of ShiverA full-tilt thriller which is truly unforgettable. The chilling premise is original, timely and very clever. After reading this book, you'll think twice before sharing your secrets online. Lia's best yet! -- Emily Freud, author of What She Left BehindLia Middleton has crafted the most unsettling and unique of premises, utilising the anonymity of the Internet to build tension. Mixing serial killer crime and edge-of-your-seat mystery, it's a book that's absorbing and chilling in equal measure * Culturefly *Praise for Lia Middleton * : *Tense, jaw-dropping, clever -- Claire DouglasKeeps you guessing from start to finish -- Jane FallonI loved it. Huge twists -- Gillian McAllisterBrilliantly written . . . I'll be recommending it to everyone I know -- Sarah PearseA stand-out psychological thriller -- Ashley AudrainSuperb. Assured, elegant and utterly gripping -- Will DeanCouldn't put it down -- Catherine CooperAbsorbing and chilling. Middleton has crafted the most unsettling and unique of premises, mixing serial killer crime and edge-of-your-seat mystery * Culturefly *

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Book SynopsisNo. 4 in this must-have mystery series from the bestselling author behind TRUE BLOOD.Trade ReviewLily Bard is the equal of Kay Scarpetta, Kinsey Milhone and V. I. Warshawski even on a bad day * Library Journal *Fresher, more unusual, than any other mystery' * Washington Post Sunday Book World *Harris is good at painting the atmosphere of a small town where everyone knows everybody else's business. -- Brandon Robshaw * The Independent on Sunday *[A] real gripping murder mystery that will keep you guessing and guessing. * entertainment-focus.com *

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Book SynopsisA brutal attack. A mysterious demand for money. An unexpected kidnap... A superb novel from the two-time winner of the THEAKSTONS OLD PECULIER CRIME NOVEL OF THE YEAR AWARD and Costa shortlisted author of THE LESS DEADTrade ReviewOne of the most exciting writers to have emerged in Britain for years -- Ian RankinHer characterisations and settings are so authentic...There are probably now as many crime writers in Scotland as criminals, but Mina may be the pick of the bunch * DAILY TELEGRAPH *Confirms Mina's place in the premier division...atmospheric, intense and full of the disturbing flavour of inner-city lowlife * GUARDIAN *The narrative is inspired by a real-life kidnapping, but Mina parleys this into something richer and stranger...The final effect of STILL MIDNIGHT is both unsettling and exhilarating * INDEPENDENT *There is a rich ordinariness, a believability, a recognisable quality about Mina's characters, who are better drawn than those of anyone else writing in her genre in Scotland * SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY *Remember the name. This is a major talent heading for the top * LITERARY REVIEW *One of the finest crime writers of her generation * DAILY TELEGRAPH *One of the most exciting writers to have emerged in Britain for years * Ian Rankin *Her characterisations and settings are so authentic...There are probably now as many crime writers in Scotland as criminals, but Mina may be the pick of the bunch * DAILY TELEGRAPH *Confirms Mina's place in the premier division...atmospheric, intense and full of the disturbing flavour of inner-city lowlife * GUARDIAN *The narrative is inspired by a real-life kidnapping, but Mina parleys this into something richer and stranger...The final effect of STILL MIDNIGHT is both unsettling and exhilarating * INDEPENDENT *There is a rich ordinariness, a believability, a recognisable quality about Mina's characters, who are better drawn than those of anyone else writing in her genre in Scotland * SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY *Remember the name. This is a major talent heading for the top * LITERARY REVIEW *One of the finest crime writers of her generation * DAILY TELEGRAPH *

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Book SynopsisCan we trust the stories we tell ourselves about the past? This is the question tough ex-FBI agent Brigid Quinn must ask herself when a cold case comes close to home.Trade ReviewA crime novel that transcends the genre - a twisting, high-stakes story with characters so real and so recognizably human, that it breaks your heart a little. Brilliant * Shari Lapena, author of The Couple Next Door *Brilliant, intricate, authentic and sometimes raw, this is a masterfully written story that'll quicken your pulse and challenge the grey matter too. Brigid Quinn is my new favourite female investigator. Loved it! * Gilly Macmillan *Becky Masterman is on of those skilled writers who makes the reader laugh, cry and think, all in the space of a few pages; and Brigid Quinn is as real as a character in a book can be. -- Promoting Crime BlogspotBrigid Quinn is the kind of FBI agent you have never met before, but will want to meet again! * Peter Robinson *A fantastic crime narrative -- Compelling ReadsA Twist of the Knife has one of the most chilling prologues I have ever read -- The Book Magnetgripping and entertaining read -- Sid's Book Blog

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Book Synopsis''Involving, sophisticated, intelligent and suspenseful'' Lee Child''A gripping, twisty police procedural'' Shari Lapena''Sets off at a cracking pace from page one and never slows down'' Rachel Abbott''Compelling, page-turning suspense ... Mari is a writer at the very top of her game'' Steve CavanaghA FATAL CRASHA plane on route from London to New York City has disappeared out of the sky. This breaking news dominates every TV channel, every social media platform, and every waking hour of the Metropolitan Police and US Homeland Security. A PRIVATE TRAGEDYThe love of DCI Kate Daniels'' life was on that aircraft, but she has no authority to investigate. This major disaster is outside of her jurisdiction and she''s ordered to walk away.A SEARCH FOR THE TRUTHBut Kate can''t let it lie. She has to find out what happened to that plane - evTrade ReviewInvolving, sophiticated, intelligent and suspenseful - everything a great crime thriller should be. * Lee Child *A gripping, twisty police procedural - fans of the Kate Daniels series will love this one. * Shari Lapena *With a cast of compelling characters and a chilling plot, Without a Trace sets off at a cracking pace from page one and never slows down. * Rachel Abbott *Mari Hannah has a rare gift. She can write compelling, page-turning suspense with the very best, but she adds heart to every page. Kate Daniels is a character to cherish, and Mari is a writer at the very top of her game. * Steve Cavanagh *I loved it - both compelling and incredibly moving. * Elly Griffiths *A personal tragedy puts Kate Daniels at the heart of an international incident, testing her skills as a detective. Without A Trace is a deft blend of emotional drama and crime procedural that kept me hooked to the very end. Mari Hannah has a talent for writing about the light and dark of life, and creates characters who feel so realistic they almost pop from the page. * Adam Hamdy *Mari Hannah is in the uppermost echelon of British crime writers and Without a Trace demonstrates why. It's her best book yet - compelling, emotional and intricately plotted with a procedural authenticity few can match. A stunning novel. * M.W. Craven *

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Book SynopsisKilling for Keeps is Maria Hannah's fifth gripping crime novel featuring DCI Kate Daniels. It's in the blood . . .Two brothers from the same criminal family die within hours of each other, five miles apart, one on the edge of a Newcastle industrial estate, the other in a busy A&E department of a local hospital, unseen by the triage team. Both victims have suffered horrific injuries. Who wanted them dead? Will they kill again? Investigating these brutal and bloody killings leads DCI Kate Daniels to break some rules, putting her career as well as her life on the line. As the body count rises in the worst torture case Northumbria Police has ever seen, the focus of the enquiry switches, first to Glasgow and then to Europe ending in a confrontation with a dangerous offender hell-bent on revenge.Start the criminal investigation series with The Murder Wall.Trade ReviewThe scenes of shocking brutality are told with a realism that makes for uncomfortable but compulsive reading. * Big Issue in the North *

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Book SynopsisThe arrival of a band of Spanish mercenaries brings new danger for Margaret Beaufort and the House of Lancaster in this richly-imagined medieval mystery.November, 1471. With Edward of York on the English throne and her son, Henry Tudor, in exile in Brittany, the newly-widowed Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond, is alone, without protectors. All she can do is wait and watch, planning for a time when she''s in a position to make her move.But new dangers are emerging. En route to England is a band of Spanish mercenaries known as the Garduna. With no allegiance to prince, prelate or people, they are a lethal fighting force, utterly ruthless and implacable killers. But who has hired them . . . and why?The discovery of the body of an unexpected visitor, found murdered in a locked room in her London townhouse, heralds the start of a series of increasingly menacing incidents which threaten Margaret and her household. Is there an enemy within

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