Crime & Thrillers Books

Book SynopsisClandestine chemistry and the LA underworld provide the atmosphere for this kaleidoscopic tale of lost memories and the heartbreak of finding them, from the author of The Contortionist's Handbook'.When Eric Ashworth wakes in jail, he has no idea how he got there, or why. His only memory is a woman''s name: Desiree.Released on bail and holed up in a low-rent motel, Eric starts to piece together his former life as a chemist at the centre of a desert drug ring with the help of a powerful new hallucinogen which simultaneously loosens his grip on the present. As the events of his past begin to emerge from the confusion of his fragmented memory, Eric must contend with a gnawing paranoia and the need for ever-increasing fixes not to mention disturbing visits from an intimidating police detective, his former associate Manhattan White and the ominously named Toe Tag. As his grip on reality becomes more tenuous, past and present, reality and fantasy begin to bleed into each other, bringing thisTrade Review'What makes this worth reading is Craig Clevenger's extraordinary prose: the pleasure of text is everything.' Guardian ‘What makes the book so unique, so compulsively readable, is Clevenger’s ability to make complex images seem so unforced.’ Independent on Sunday ‘A brilliant satire.’ Sainsbury’s Magazine 'It's dizzying stuff…no wonder Chuck Palahniuk is singing his praises on the back cover.' Metro Praise for ‘The Contortionist’s Handbook’: 'A dazzling and highly original debut novel which instantly establishes its author as one of the most interesting writers to emerge in years. This book deserves to be massive and I think it will be.' Irvine Welsh ‘Craig Clevenger has crafted an unforgettable antihero in John Dolan Vincent. This is an extraordinary debut.’ Richard Kelly, director of ‘Donnie Darko’ ‘What sticks out about this remarkable debut are its pitch-perfect shock ending and John Vincent himself – his complex, conflicting mind, original voice and unnervingly self-defeating existence.’ Time Out

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Book Synopsis*WINNER of the Ellis Peters Historical Dagger Award 2013*Andrew Taylor wrote superb historical fiction long before Hilary Mantel was popular' Daily TelegraphFrom the No.1 bestselling author of THE AMERICAN BOY comes a new historical thriller set during the American War of Independence.August, 1778. British-controlled Manhattan is a melting pot of soldiers, traitors and refugees, surrounded by rebel forces as the American War of Independence rages on.Into this simmering tension sails Edward Savill, a London clerk tasked with assessing the claims of loyalists who have lost out during the war.Savill lodges with the ageing Judge Wintour, his ailing wife, and their enigmatic daughter-in-law Arabella. However, as Savill soon learns, what the Wintours have lost in wealth, they have gained in secrets.The murder of a gentleman in the slums pulls Savill into the city's underbelly. But when life is so cheap, why does one death matter? Because making a nation is a lucrative business, and some peopTrade Review‘An absolutely gripping, absorbing historical crime thriller … If you like CJ Sansom, or Hilary Mantel or Philippa Gregory, I think you’d absolutely love Andrew Taylor’s The Scent of Death’ PETER JAMES ‘If you’re wondering “what should I read next?” try it – because it opens up a whole new world for you’ LEE CHILD ‘The key to what makes this book work is that Taylor contrives a brilliant mystery plot, and yet the historical detail is just so compelling … The language is interesting, the historical detail is fascinating and the central mystery is absolutely gripping … The Scent of Death is a perfect read for anyone who likes a mystery that’s as finely crafted as a Swiss watch – Andrew Taylor is at the top of his game’ MARK BILLINGHAM ‘Andrew Taylor has built this beautiful and exquisite stage set, so everything we need to know about Manhattan in the 1770s is right there … What makes a crime novel work – you’ve got to have a cracking good story, you’ve got to want to know what happened. And here, you’ve got all of it’ KATE MOSSE ‘Andrew Taylor is arguably the most consummate writer of historical fiction today. He achieves to perfection the crucial balance between the mystery to be solved and the historical context surrounding it. A mesmeric read’ The Times ‘An absorbing and harrowing epic historical detective novel … Taylor is as good at this period as C. J. Sansom is at Tudor England, and like him pulls off novels that work both as literary fiction and detective stories’ Independent ‘Andrew Taylor has been producing superb historical fiction since long before Hilary Mantel’s Man Booker wins bestowed literary respectability on the genre’ Daily Telegraph ‘Taylor once again shows how skilful a historical novelist he is’ The Sunday Times

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Book SynopsisAlex Wheatle writes from a place of honesty and passion' Steve McQueen, director of Small AxeEast of Acre Lane is the fast-paced and razor sharp story of a young man trying to do the right thing from celebrated author Alex Wheatle, one of the figures who inspired Steve McQueen's Small AxeIt is 1981, and Brixton is on the verge of exploding. Biscuit lives with his mother, brother and sister, trapped hustling on the frontline for the South London badman Nunchucks. As the patience of the community breaks and the riots erupt, Biscuit must make a choice that could change his life forever.His prose is as sharp as a barber's cutthroat and the hard edged dialogue perfectly captures that London vibe. Thrilling, very funny, and most of all a page turner' Courttia NewlandTrade Review‘Alex Wheatle's second novel is a rhythmic, fast-talking tour of the tower blocks of South London.The strength of the novel lies in the characters who form Biscuit's posse … writing in a street slang that reads like an urgent urban poetry, Wheatle catches the dialogue of the friends and contrasts it with passages of distilled description. He observes meticulously the subcultures within the black community… It is this blend of frantic action and thoughtful writing that ranks Alex Wheatle alongside Courttia Newland as one of the most exciting writers of the black urban experience.' The Times ‘Dubbed the Brixton Bard by his contemporaries, Alex Wheatle was always ambitious… He is first and foremost a story teller.’ The Voice ‘This is a vibrant book pulsing with the reggae beats of the era. The dialogue… has rhythm and inventiveness. And the violent climax is a cathartic one, the logical and positive first stage of a revolution.’ ***** Independent on Sunday ‘Wheatle's novel is a bright, adventurous tale, jammed to the rafters with a parade of fine hustlers, headcases and herbsmen.’ The Latest ‘In East of Acre Lane Alex Wheatle has managed far more than simply pulling off a fast, punchy morlaity tale centring on a young man's dilemma about going straight or opting for a life of crime… Action packed, funny and filled with cocky banter between its teenage male characters, references to reggae music and street stye, its a cool, credible read… Wheatle has written a hardhitting novel which is an incendiary reminder of one of the most explosive events in London's post war history.’ Big Issue

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Book SynopsisAn atmospheric new Fry and Cooper thriller for fans of Peter Robinson and Reginald Hill.Trade ReviewPraise for The Kill Call: ‘Informative and clever’ Literary Review ‘Plenty to get your teeth into here… adds an extra edge of darkness to an already twilight tale’ Northern Echo Praise for Dying to Sin: ‘Clever, intricate plot… Cooper is an ascendant Lewis to Fry’s lonely, bitter Morse in this… gripping procedural’ Financial Times Praise for Scared to Live: 'It's easy to see why Stephen Booth's novels are so popular. The Peak District's awesome scenery is an ideal background for a murder or two; he has developed his two principal characters into rounded personalities and he always gives them an intriguing mystery to investigate' Sunday Telegraph 'A modern master of rural noir' Guardian 'Booth's aim is to portray the darkness that lies below the surface… in this he succeeds wonderfully well' Daily Mail 'Ingenious plotting and richly atmospheric' Reginald Hill Praise for Stephen Booth: 'Stephen Booth creates a fine sense of place and atmosphere … the unguessable solution to the crime comes as a real surprise' Sunday Telegraph 'The complex relationship between [Cooper and Fry] is excellently drawn, and is combined with an intriguing plot and a real sense of place: Stephen Booth is an author to keep an eye on' Evening Standard 'Stephen Booth makes high summer in Derbyshire as dark and terrifying as midwinter' Val McDermid 'Sinks its teeth into you and doesn't let go … A dark star may be born!' Reginald Hill 'A leading light of British crime writing' Guardian

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Book SynopsisShe was a madam in a brothel, then a gangster's moll. Now Annie Carter owns the East End of London, and God help anybody that crosses herIt's 1970, London, and there's a killer on the loose.When gang boss Annie Carter gets a call, suddenly it's personal. A close friend of hers is the latest victim, and another is in the frame for the murder.With the hated Delaney gang still causing trouble, and NY mob boss Don Constantine Barolli's family making no secret of the fact that they hate her, she senses a feud blowing up in all their faces very soon.To save her old friend, Annie has to try to find out who's been targeting the girls. Before long she's diving head-first into the seedy underbelly of the streets.How long before the killer strikes again? And who will be the next victim?Trade ReviewPraise for Jessie Keane: ‘This is a riveting story, with gutsy, gritty characters and a genuine feel for the period.’ Books Monthly ‘A cracking story from a great new writer’ Mandasue Heller ‘Sensational, thrilling…the pace never lets up, not for an instant.’ Books Monthly ‘Gritty and powerful, Martina Cole fans will love this addictive novel.’ Closer ‘A fast-paced thriller. Three stars.’ Star Magazine

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Book SynopsisAn exciting new talent, shortlisted for the 1997 Booker Prize, hailed as a triumph' by The Times, and a poignant observer of human hearts, foibles and follies. 'There isn't a false note in the book, nothing but ravishing grace, wit and tender feelings.' Mail on SundayNicola's problems began when she is finally told by her partner, Jonathan, that we should part'. She nips out to the off-licence to buy cigarettes and returns to find a stranger in her living room. The stranger looks like Jonathan, talks like Jonathan, yet Nicola did not recognise him as the man he was before. Jonathan had always been predictable, but now Nicola wondered where was the man she loved? How did he become such a mystery all of a sudden? Since when did a solicitor have hidden depths? Friends gather round, always ready to offer encouragement or insult her ex-husband, yet Nicola must face up to the adjustments of Life After Jonathan. It is not the experience of liberation, empowerment and excitement it is meant toTrade Review‘An astute observation of English manners’ Independent on Sunday ‘The touch is light, the dialogue crisp and funny, and the strength to be gained from friendships shines like a beacon’ Sunday Times ‘Delivered with humour and her dialogue is so real, you could almost believe she’s been eavesdropping in lots of west London households.’ She

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Book SynopsisAnother excellent Dalziel and Pascoe story from the master of the British crime novelThree old men die on a stormy November night: one by deliberate violence, one in a road accident and one by an unknown cause.Inspector Pascoe is called in to investigate the first death, but when the dying words of the accident victim suggest that a drunken Superintendent Dalziel had been behind the wheel, the integrity of the entire Mid-Yorkshire constabulary is called into question.Helped by the bright but wayward DC Seymour, hindered by Maggie's Moron', the half-witted Constable Hector, Peter Pascoe enters the twilight and vulnerable world of the senior citizen to discover that the beckoning darkness at the end of the tunnel holds few comforts.Trade Review'Few writers in the genre today have Hill's gifts: formidable intelligence, quick humour, compassion and a prose style that blends elegance and grace' Donna Leon, Sunday Times 'The finest male English contemporary crime writer' Val McDermid 'Reginald Hill's novels are really dances to the music of time, his heroes and villains interconnecting, their stories intertwining'Ian Rankin 'One of Britain's most consistently excellent crime novelists' The Times 'These novels last, like a grand malt whisky – rounded, rich, intoxicating… Here is an author at his formidable best'Frances Fyfield, Mail on Sunday 'So far out in front that he need not bother looking over his shoulder' Sunday Telegraph 'He is probably the best living male crime writer in the English-speaking world' Andrew Taylor, Independent 'Reginald Hill stands head and shoulders above any other writer of homebred crime fiction' Tom Hiney, Observer

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Book SynopsisAnnie Carter is backShe was a madam in a brothel and a gangster's moll, but now her protection is gone and her enemies are closing in.1971, London gang boss Annie Carter Barolli is living the New York high life with the feared mafia godfather Constantine Barolli. Then family tragedy strikes, leaving only Annie, Constantine's sister Gina and his three children alive, and now they're in terrible danger. And what's worse it signals a major shift in mafia power.Annie returns to London with her daughter Layla, pursued by a hit man. Someone wants her dead and the only way she can stay alive is to find out who's paying for the contract and to strike first.Then, the reappearance of an old East End face sparks a shocking suspicion the possibility that Max Carter, Annie's first and greatest love, didn't die two years ago, as she had been led to believe.Has he truly just been playing dead?Trade ReviewPraise for Jail Bird: 'Fans of Martina Cole will love this' Teesside Evening Gazette 'Keane's have a grittiness and strong sense of place and character that make them especially compelling' Choice Magazine Praise for Jessie Keane: ‘This is a riveting story, with gutsy, gritty characters and a genuine feel for the period.’ Books Monthly ‘A cracking story from a great new writer’ Mandasue Heller 'Jessie Keane gives us a fascinating insight into the rivalries and lifestyles of those who make fortunes out of a criminal way of life and of the lowlifes that carry out their orders.' Lincolnshire Echo 'Perfect for fans of Martina Cole and Lynda La Plante' Glamour 'Gritty and powerful, Martina Cole fans will love this addictive novel' Closer 'This is the sort of competition Martina Cole could do without and if Keane does hit the No. 1 spot it could be handbags, or more likely knuckledusters, at dawn' The Northern Echo

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Book SynopsisSo far out in front that he need not bother looking over his shoulder' Sunday TelegraphThe balding policeman on Trudi Adamson's doorstep brings the worst news possible: her husband Trent has been burned to death in a freak car accident.Suddenly a widow after years of marriage, Trudi soon discovers there's a lot she didn't know about her late husband. Why did he resign from his job without telling her? And where is all his money?As shock piles upon shock, Trudi is forced to re-examine her belief in Trent, and ultimately in herself. Compelled to leave the cosy nest of her old life, she is out in the open and fighting for her survival.Trade Review‘The plot is splendidly intricate and involving’Sunday Times ‘The most varied, clever and enjoyable crime writer we have’Sunday Telegraph ‘Few writers in the genre today have Hill’s gifts: formidable intelligence, quick humour, compassion and a prose style that blends elegance and grace’Sunday Times

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Book SynopsisMurder, loyalty and vengeance collide in Jessie Keane's gritty fourth novel.Lily King has spent years behind barsConvicted of murdering her husband, London villain Leo King, she hasn't been missed. Everyone believes she got what she deserved, but Lily knows she was fitted up.Now she's out, and she doesn't do forgiveness. In her absence, things have moved on and the old order has changed. But now she's ready to reclaim her position as head of the King family.Fuelled by vengeance, Lily King is back, and some people aren't going to know what's hit them.Trade ReviewPraise for Jail Bird: 'Fans of Martina Cole will love this' Teesside Evening Gazette 'Keane's have a grittiness and strong sense of place and character that make them especially compelling' Choice Magazine Praise for Jessie Keane: ‘This is a riveting story, with gutsy, gritty characters and a genuine feel for the period.’ Books Monthly ‘A cracking story from a great new writer’ Mandasue Heller 'Jessie Keane gives us a fascinating insight into the rivalries and lifestyles of those who make fortunes out of a criminal way of life and of the lowlifes that carry out their orders.' Lincolnshire Echo 'Perfect for fans of Martina Cole and Lynda La Plante' Glamour 'Gritty and powerful, Martina Cole fans will love this addictive novel' Closer 'This is the sort of competition Martina Cole could do without and if Keane does hit the No. 1 spot it could be handbags, or more likely knuckledusters, at dawn' The Northern Echo

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Book SynopsisA compelling novel about four young women in wartime London, from the best-selling author of London Belles and My Sweet Valentine.In Article Row, in London's Holborn four young women, Tilly, Sally, Dulcie and Agnes have already been witnesses to the heartache and pain that Hitler's bombs have inflicted on ordinary Londoners.Tilly is desperate to wed her beau, Drew. Terrified that something will happen to prevent them from being together, her fears seem to be coming true when he is called back home to America.For her mother, Olive, this only adds to her worries for Tilly. But she has her own hands full when her friend and neighbour, Sergeant Dawson, gets some terrible news. When Olive lends a hand, she finds herself at the sharp end of some unwelcome gossip.For Dulcie, the war has brought an old flame, David, back into her life. But his terrible injuries have changed his life forever. Can something more develop out of their friendship? And for Agnes, she is about to find out somethingTrade ReviewPraise for Annie Groves: ‘An engrossing story’ My Weekly ‘A stirring and heartrending family saga…Against a backdrop of change when the suffragette movement was coming to the fore, the choices and dreams of a generation of women combine to create this passionate story’ Liverpool Daily Post ‘Heartwrenching and uplifting in equal measure – a tragic indictment of what can happen when you swap passion for duty. Roll on the sequel!’ Take a Break ‘Written from the heart’ My Weekly

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Book SynopsisThe sixth book in the classic Martin Beck detective series from the 1960s the novels that shaped the future of Scandinavian crime writing.Hugely acclaimed, the Martin Beck series were the original Scandinavian crime novels and have inspired the writings of Stieg Larsson, Henning Mankell and Jo Nesbo.Written in the 1960s, 10 books completed in 10 years, they are the work of Maj Sjöwall and Per Wahlöö a husband and wife team from Sweden. They follow the fortunes of the detective Martin Beck, whose enigmatic, taciturn character has inspired countless other policemen in crime fiction; without his creation Ian Rankin's John Rebus or Henning Mankell's Kurt Wallander may never have been conceived. The novels can be read separately, but are best read in chronological order, so the reader can follow the characters' development and get drawn into the series as a whole.When Viktor Palmgren, a powerful industrialist, is casually shot during an after-dinner speech, the repercussions both on the Trade Review Praise for Sjowall & Wahloo: ‘The writing is elegant and surprisingly humorous – if you haven’t come across Beck before, you’re in for a treat’ – Guardian ‘One of the most authentic, gripping and profound collections of police procedurals ever accomplished’ – Michael Connelly ‘This Swedish husband-and-wife collaboration, specialising in the police novel, has gone from strength to strength. Plots are interesting as well as realistic, the various homicide men are admirably characterised, and the amused, sarcastic comments on modern Sweden are a delight’ – Sunday Times ‘Their mysteries don’t just read well; they reread even better. Witness, wife, petty cop or crook – they’re all real characters even if they get just a few sentences. The plots hold, because they’re ingenious but never inhuman’ – New York Times

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Book SynopsisThe final book in the classic Martin Beck detective series from the 1960s and 70s the novels that shaped the future of Scandinavian crime writing.Hugely acclaimed, the Martin Beck series were the original Scandinavian crime novels and have inspired the writings of Stieg Larsson, Henning Mankell and Jo Nesbo.An American senator is visiting Stockholm. A group of terrorists is determined to assassinate him. Detective Inspector Martin Beck is determined to stop them. At the same time, there is the ambiguous case of a young woman on trial, the latest in a long string of bank robberies plaguing the city, and the mysterious circumstances of a millionaire porn filmmaker found brutally murdered at his mistress' house. Will Beck be able to manage each unravelling case and prevent further atrocities, even when his own life is put on the line?Trade Review‘They changed the genre. Whoever is writing crime fiction after these novels is inspired by them in one way or another.’ Henning Mankell ‘Pick up one book…and you become unhinged. You want to block out a week of your life, lie to your boss, and stay in bed, gorging on one after another.’ Observer ‘The godparents of Scandinavian crime fiction’ Jo Nesbo 'Some of the most gripping crime fiction ever written' Michael Connelly ‘If you haven’t come across Beck before, you’re in for a treat.’ Guardian ‘I have never read a finer police story.’ Los Angeles Times ‘If you haven’t read Sjowall/Wahloo, start now.’ Sunday Telegraph

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Book SynopsisThe third novel in the DI Sean Corrigan series authentic and terrifying crime fiction with a psychological edge, by an ex-Met detective. Perfect for fans of Mark Billingham, Peter James and Stuart MacBride.There's nothing to be afraid of. I have something for you, George. Something very precious.'Four-year-old George Bridgeman is abducted in the dead of night. There are no witnesses and no evidence left at the scene.DI Sean Corrigan is on the case, but his uncanny ability to step into the mind of the killer is of no use.Then another child goes missing.The team are running out of time. Can Sean find the missing children, before an abduction becomes a murder?A gripping and twisty detective thriller perfect for fans of Stuart MacBride and James Oswald.Trade Review‘The feeling of being at the heart of a police investigation seeps from every page’ Daily Mail f you haven’t made Sean Corrigan’s acquaintance yet, don’t worry. This is as good a place to start as any. Jump in, make yourself at home, but remember to turn the heating up, as this is chilling crime at its best.’ Crime Review ‘Luke Delaney knows the London crime scene like the back of his hand and uses this inside knowledge to the full’ The Times Praise for Luke Delaney: ‘A striking debut from a former Murder Squad Detective, Delaney is not his real name, but there is no doubt about his inside knowledge and ability to convey it’ Daily Mail ‘A confident, aggressive and very promising debut by a former Met detective’ The Times ‘An authentic voice on how the police operate with a stone-cold killer striking randomly around London … scary authenticity’ The Sun

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Book SynopsisIn Dirty Game, Annie Bailey was an East End Madam. In Black Widow she's queen of the gangs and trying to save her daughter's lifeAnnie Bailey had done it all; Madam, mistress and Gangster''s moll. Now she''s Annie Carter, and she taking over the East End.Annie knew that it wouldn''t last. Everything was going so well; she was living in Majorca, had Max Carter the head of the Carter firm by her side, and had given him a beautiful daughter, Layla. But if there was one thing life had taught her, it was that everything could change in the blink of an eye. One minute she''s lying by the pool, the next she''s out cold. When she comes round Max and Layla are gone.It''s not long before she gets the demands. They want money or she''ll be getting her little girl back in piecesThere''s only one thing Annie can do, she heads back to the East End of London and gathers the Carter firm together. Someone has snatched her husband and child. Now there''s a score to settle, and it''s being settled AnnieTrade ReviewPraise for Dirty Game: ‘A cracking story from a great new writer’ Mandasue Heller

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Book SynopsisFrom the No. 1 bestselling author of THE AMERICAN BOY comes a brilliant new historical thriller set during the French Revolution. Selected as Historical Novel of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times, and picked as one of Radio 4's Crime Books of the Year.Paris, 1792. Terror reigns as the city writhes in the grip of revolution. The streets run with blood as thousands lose their heads to the guillotine. Edward Savill, working in London as agent for a wealthy American, receives word that his estranged wife Augusta has been killed in France. She leaves behind ten-year-old Charles, who is brought to England to Charnwood Court, a house in the country leased by a group of émigré refugees.Savill is sent to retrieve the boy, though it proves easier to reach Charnwood than to leave. And only when Savill arrives there does he discover that Charles is mute. The boy has witnessed horrors beyond his years, but what terrible secret haunts him so deeply that he is unable to utter a word?Trade ReviewPraise for The Silent Boy: ‘In this taut thriller, Andrew Taylor deftly weaves unobtrusive historical research with a page-turning plot’ The Times, Books of the Year ‘Great tale, great history, great Taylor’ Radio 4, Crime Books of the Year ‘Taylor has not only succeeded in constructing a labyrinthine plot that is gripping to the last page, but he also created an entirely believable child, traumatised but resolute, whose plight is the fuel for true suspense’ Guardian ‘As a writer, Taylor wears his learning lightly and shares with Hilary Mantel the capacity to take the reader directly into a vanished world’ Times Literary Supplement ‘Taylor is a wonder; once again he marries flawlessly integrated historical detail … and a knotty and involving mystery as strong as anything in the historical crime fiction field. I suspect Taylor should start clearing a space next to his current writing trophies’ Financial Times ‘Don’t keep quiet about The Silent Boy. Tell everyone: it’s a really excellent page-turning thriller set in a fascinating period in Anglo-French history’ Robert Goddard ‘Many elements of The Silent Boy bring Dickens … It is utterly gripping, extremely well executed and suspenseful to the last’ Spectator 'Taylor's mastery of plot and character show to great effect in a story that has a depth few other historical crime novels can match' Sunday Times 'I enjoyed this book very much indeed. I found the evocation of late 18th Century England, and the French exiles, effortlessly authentic, the hunt for Charles gripping, and the portrayal and first-person narrative of the helpless, traumatised, yet strong and resourceful little boy moving and believable. An excellent work.' C J Sansom, author of Revelation ‘A gripping and atmospheric thriller – the perfect blend of dark suspense, appealing characters and fascinating history. I loved it!’ Antonia Hodgson, author of The Devil in the Marshalsea

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Book SynopsisIt's either fight, or dieThe second gripping thriller in an exciting series featuring rogue FBI agent Jane Hawk, from the master of suspense and New York Times No.1 bestselling author.Do what you were born to do'These are the words that ring in the mind of a beloved teacher as she drives a car full of burning gasoline into a hotel. The police believe she was insane, but rogue FBI agent Jane Hawk knows the truth.In the wake of many similar inexplicable suicides, including that of her husband, Jane picks up the trail of a secret cabal of formidable players who are bent on obtaining world power.Now Jane has become an unstoppable predator. Those she is hunting will have nowhere to run when her shadow falls across them.Trade ReviewPraise for The Silent Corner: ‘Koontz’s leanest, meanest thriller … introduces a smart, appealing heroine who can outthink as well as outshoot the baddest of bad dudes’ Kirkus Reviews Praise for Dean Koontz: ‘Humour, humanity and horror, the classic Koontz concoction’ The Times ‘Dean Koontz is not just a master of our darkest dreams, but also a literary juggler’ The Times ‘A terrific pursuit story … clever, up-to-the-minute, and riveting’ Guardian ‘There’s surprise after surprise, including a killer finale … a read-in-one-go novel’ Independent on Sunday ‘Psychologically complex, masterly and satisfying’ The New York Times ‘A master still at the peak of his powers’ Matt Haig, author of The Humans ‘A mind-bender filled with satisfying surprises’ People

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Book SynopsisFrom #1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz comes the must-read thriller of the year, perfect for readers of dark psychological suspense and modern classics of mystery and adventure.Bibi Blair is a fierce, funny, dauntless young woman whose doctor says she has one year to live.She replies, We'll see.'Her sudden recovery is a medical miracle.An enigmatic woman convinces Bibi that she escaped death so that she can save someone else. Someone named Ashley Bell.But who is Ashley Bell? And what exactly does she need saving from?Bibi's obsession with finding Ashley sends her on the run from threats both mystical and worldly, including a rich and charismatic cult leader with terrifying ambitions.Trade ReviewPraise for Ashley Bell: ‘A mind-bender filled with satisfying surprises’ People Magazine Praise for The City: ‘A satisfying dish blended with a little sadness andpips of joy that swell inside you. Delicious’ Sun 'I loved this novel. It is such a joy to read. This is more than your everyday adrenaline ride. The most gripping thing I've read in a long, long time. You sense you are reading a master still at the peak of his powers’ Matt Haig (author of The Humans) Praise for Dean Koontz: ‘Dean Koontz is not just a master of our darkest dreams, but also a literary juggler’ The Times ‘A terrific pursuit story … clever, up-to-the-minute, and riveting’ Guardian ‘There’s surprise after surprise, including a killer finale … a read-in-one-go novel’ Independent on Sunday ‘Psychologically complex, masterly and satisfying’ The New York Times

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Book Synopsis*If you love The Butlers, meet QUEENIE! Kimberley Chambers' new No.1 bestseller and prequel to The Butler series is out now!*If you don''t face your enemies they''ll stab you in the back.There are many people Vinny Butler and Eddie Mitchell have crossed in their time. Yet when two heavyweights of the criminal underworld go into business together they become untouchable, as do their families. But someone is out for revenge. The death count is rising and it's getting closer to home. This isn't business any longer, it's about flesh and blood.So who is the backstabber?Trade Review‘A gritty tale with a shocking twist . . . will have you on the edge of your seat from cover to cover’ OK More praise for Kimberley Chambers: ‘This beautifully crafted, sharp, well-paced novel will keep you hooked until the very end. An outstanding tale of betrayal, violence and love. Buy it. Read it. You'll love it. I did’ Amanda Prowse ‘[Kimberley Chambers is] the queen of the gritty, low-life tale . . .a fast-paced, thrill-a-minute ride that takes you on all sorts of twists and turns’ Bella ‘Easily as good as Martina Cole’ News of the World ‘Brilliantly delivers a story of violence, treachery and family ties… Easy to read and hard to put down’ News of the World ‘[a] fast-paced tale with gritty authenticity’ The Guardian

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Book SynopsisA fast-paced, terrifying journey.' RACHEL ABBOTTA born storyteller.' PETER JAMES'Intense action and an enthralling female lead.' L.A. LARKINThe SUNDAY TIMES bestseller returns with the second book in the PC Lucy Clayburn series a must for all fans of Happy Valley and M.J. Arlidge.As a female cop walking the mean streets of Manchester, life can be tough for PC Lucy Clayburn. But when one of the North West's toughest gangsters is your father, things can be particularly difficult.When Lucy''s patch is gripped by a spate of murder-robberies, the police are quick to action. Yet when it transpires that the targets are Manchester's criminal underworld, attitudes change.Lucy is soon faced with one of the toughest cases of her life and one which will prove once and for all whether blood really is thicker than waterTrade Review“Edge-of-the-seat reading…Heck is formidable – a British Alex Cross.” THE SUN “Wonderfully dark and peppered with grim humour. Finch is a born storyteller and writes with the authentic voice of the ex-copper he is.” PETER JAMES "An ingenious and original plot. Compulsive reading.” RACHEL ABBOTT “A deliciously twisted and fiendish set of murders and a great pairing of detectives.” STAV SHEREZ “Avon’s big star…part edge-of-the-seat, part hide-behind-the-sofa! An excellent series.” THE BOOKSELLER “An explosive thriller that will leave you completely hooked on Heck.” WE LOVE THIS BOOK

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Book SynopsisMust-read A funny yet tragic tale of a husband and wife's car journey across the US with Albert the alligator in tow. Yes, really.' Marie ClaireA journey of a thousand miles. With an alligator on the back seat. And John Steinbeck as a passenger.This is a tale where everything is true,except the bits that are made up.In 1930s America, the Great Depression made everyone's horizons smaller, and Elsie Lavender found herself back where she began, in the coalfields of West Virginia.She had just one memento of her halcyon days a baby alligator named Albert.Then one day, her husband's stoical patience snapped and Elsie had to choose between Homer and Albert.She decided that there was only one thing to do: they would carry Albert home to Florida.And so began their odyssey a journey like no other, where Elsie, Homer and Albert encountered everything from movie stars and revolutionaries to Ernest Hemingway and hurricanes in their struggle to find love, redemption,and a place to call home.From tTrade Review‘An absolute delight’ Woman & Home ‘This offbeat tale about a man, his wife and her pet alligator Albert going on a road trip has been likened to Forrest Gump and Big Fish – but we think it’s far more loveable.’ Heat ‘crazy, quirky, loveable’ The Pool ‘It’s utterly charming’ The Scotsman ‘Hickam’s novel blends fact and fiction in a delightful tall tale’ Mail on Sunday’s Event Magazine ‘Must-read… A funny yet tragic tale of a husband and wife’s car journey across the US with Albert the alligator in tow. Yes, really.’ Marie Claire ‘This charmingly quirky book is a must-read’ Essentials Magazine ‘quirky, charming’ Fabulous Magazine

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Book SynopsisThe first book featuring Ben, the lovable, humorous ex-sailor and down-at-heels rascal who can't help running into trouble.Ben is back home from the Merchant Navy, penniless as usual and looking for digs in fog-bound London. Taking shelter in an abandoned old house, he stumbles across a dead body and scarpers. Running into a detective, Gilbert Fordyce, the reluctant Ben is persuaded to return to the house and investigate the mystery of the corpse which promptly disappears! The vacant No.17 is the rendezvous for a gang of villains, and the cowardly Ben finds himself in the thick of thieves with no way of escape.Ben's first adventure, No.17, began life in the 1920s as an internationally successful stage play and was immortalised on film by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. Its author, J. Jefferson Farjeon, wrote more than 60 crime thrillers, eight featuring Ben the tramp, his most popular character.Trade Review‘There may be contemporary story writers who are equals of Mr Farjeon in the ability to put the reader swiftly and wholly under the spell of the eerie and uncanny, but they have not come within our reading.’ NEW YORK WORLD ‘Jefferson Farjeon writes thrills enhanced by good writing, good humour, and good character sketches.’ SUNDAY TIMES

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of THE ORIGIN MYSTERY the trilogy with ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD. En route from London to New York, Flight 305 suddenly loses power and crash-lands in the English countryside, plunging a group of strangers into a mysterious adventure that will have repercussions for all of humankind.Struggling to stay alive, the survivors soon realize that the world they've crashed in is very different from the one they left. But where are they? Why are they here? And how will they get back home?Five passengers seem to hold clues about what's really going on: writer Harper Lane, venture capitalist Nick Stone, German genetic researcher Sabrina Shröeder, computer scientist Yul Tan, and Grayson Shaw, the son of a billionaire philanthropist.As more facts about the crash emerge, it becomes clear that some in this group know more than they're letting on answers that will lead Harper and Nick to uncover a far-reaching conspiracy involving their own lives. As they begin to piece together the trTrade Review‘Well-constructed and tightly wound as a fine Swiss watch – DEPARTURE has non-stop action, an engaging plot, and, of course, wheels within wheels’ DIANA GABALDON, bestselling author of OUTLANDER ‘Kudos for A.G. Riddle who has this amazing knack to keep you glued to the pages as you try to solve the conspiracy of Flight 305’ Impulse Gamer

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Book SynopsisAn unputdownable thriller set in the dark underbelly of Europe, perfect for fans of I AM PILGRIM.Into the darkness they fallTarifa, Spain. A man's body washes up on the beach. No-one seems to care.Patrick Cornwall is a highly acclaimed investigative journalist. His latest project: to uncover the plight of migrants trying to start new lives in Europe, and expose the corruption that runs to the highest levels of society.Patrick's wife, Ally, is used to Patrick being out of contact. But she's just discovered she's pregnant, and she must track him down. Unable to reach him and starting to worry, she flies across the ocean to get answers.Still unable to find him, Ally delves into the secrets Patrick was determined to expose, and is drawn into an ever-deadlier web. Because in the dark underbelly of Europe, where lives are cheap, the perpetrators will stop at nothing to keep their sins hidden, and their victims forgottenTrade Review‘The Forgotten Dead will keep you engrossed from beginning to end. Take a step in to the darkness, will you be able to escape? 5/5’ Nudge Book Reviews ‘Without a doubt , she is one of our best crime writers right now. Or rather, in short, one of the best writers right now’ Gunilla Wedding’ Norra Skåne "Has all the characteristics of the Scandinavian crime novel – the suspense, the literary quality, the critical view on society – but with a global perspective. The Swedish critics are right: this is an international thriller of the highest standard." Liza Marklund "A complex topic is condensed into this book with great finesse. Nothing is missing and nothing can be added. The balance is perfect. This first novel by Tove Alsterdal is a total success and the translation of her second book is already eagerly awaited." Huffington Post/ Canada “A captivating debut!" Der Standard/Germany "Alsterdal is a gift to crime novel lovers." Søndag "If you are only going to read one Swedish crime novel this summer, read Women On The Beach by Tove Alsterdal.” 6 stars out of 6, Berlingske Tidende/Denmark "A thrilling, insightful and very well written story." Göteborgsposten "The narrative is outstanding, making readers absorbed in the story and never letting them go. I would say she is one of the biggest debut authors this year".Sadamichi Sakai, Mystery Syndicate Praise for Tove Alsterdal: "Tove Alsterdal combines deeply poignant family stories with political thriller. It is so worth every minute of the time it actually takes to read a book. She is the John le Carré of Sweden." Åsa Larsson, winner of Best Crime Novel of the Year 2012 ‘Not many authors can pull off to tie together every day suburban life with a society in freefall, and then combine international politics and murder mysteries with a gripping portrayal of feeling very lonely in your own family. But Tove Alsterdal does exactly that. Read!’ Malin Persson Giolito, winner of Best Crime Novel of the Year 2017

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Book Synopsis''Compelling, dark and intense, this story of a friendship gone wrong will keep you guessing until the end''B.A. PARIS, No.1 bestselling author of BEHIND CLOSED DOORSTHERE ARE SOME FRIENDS YOU'LL NEVER FORGETNO MATTER HOW HARD YOU TRYBEFOREEdie is the friend that Heather has always craved. But one night, it goes terrifyingly wrong. And what started as an innocent friendship ends in two lives being destroyed.AFTERSixteen years later, Edie is still rebuilding her life. But Heather isn't ready to let her forget so easily. It's no coincidence that she shows up when Edie needs her most.NOWEdie or Heather?Heather or Edie?Someone has to pay for what happened, but who will it be?Trade Review‘A slow-burning but well-executed tale of a toxic female friendship … both Edie and Heather are utterly believable, and Camilla Way cleverly manipulates the reader into taking sides, first one way, then the other’ Daily Mail ‘A brilliant balancing act that slowly builds to an explosive, twisty finish’ Sunday Mirror ‘Trust me, once you’ve finished, you’ll turn the book over and start again’ Stylist, Book Wars ‘Gripping psychological suspense, Watching Edie is wonderfully claustrophobic, trapping us as observers of the complex and suffocating relationship between Edie and Heather, compelled to watch until their secret is finally revealed’ Fiona Barton, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Widow ‘Compelling, dark and intense, this story of a friendship gone wrong will keep you guessing until the end’ B A Paris, No. 1 bestselling author of Behind Closed Doors ‘A taut suspense novel that drops secrets in all the right places’ Julia Heaberlin, bestselling author of Black-Eyed Susans ‘Warning: this book will leave you emotionally sucker-punched … Watching Edie is as if The Talented Mr Ripley author Patricia Highsmith grew up in Nineties smalltown Britain … totally gripping’ Stylist ‘A gripping psychological thriller’ Hello ‘An unrelenting sense of dread shadows this story of a friendship gone wrong’ Woman & Home ‘Dark, debut novel about why you should never turn your back on a best friend’ Red Magazine ‘Way expertly explores the dark side of friendship in her psychological suspense novel’ Publisher’s Weekly, Starred Review ‘Watching Edie has a clever plot, a fateful friendship, a callous betrayal, and an ending that is as twisty as it is inevitable’ Alexandra Burt, bestselling author of Little Girl Gone

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Book SynopsisStanding on London's Victoria docks with the wind biting through her shawl, Rose Munday realises she's been abandoned by her sweetheart. She had risked everything to get to London but, stumbling through the peasoup fog, she has nowhere to go, and no one to turn to.Scared and alone, Rose steps straight into danger, only to be rescued by two women with even less to their names a woman of the night and her young sidekick, Sparrow. With only a cluster of love letters to her name and all hope of her sweetheart's return fading, Rose finds herself forging a new life with her unlikely companions.But when a good deed turns sour, a dangerous enemy threatens to ruin them all. Will Rose be able to save her new friends and her future? If she can, a Christmas gift awaits that will change her life foreverThe third book in the stunning River Maid' series from Sunday Times bestseller, Dilly Court!Trade ReviewPraise for Dilly Court: ‘Feisty female characters to fall in love with in a spirited, adventurous novel’ Sunday Express ‘Dilly Court’s latest novel is another page-turner that will keep you gripped to the end – 5 stars’ The People’s Friend ‘As always Dilly keeps you absorbed right to the end’ Choice ‘A rollicking, fast-paced adventure with a hint of romance!’ My Weekly ‘Spellbinding . . . you just keep turning the pages’ Daily Mail ‘A fast-paced, riveting read’ Sunday Express ‘A heart-warming, fast-paced story that will keep you gripped till the end’ The People’s Friend ‘This rollicking romp of a story moves at breakneck pace and involves street urchins, dangerous criminals and even Egyptian rebels. A suitably gripping end to Dilly Court’s The River Maid trilogy.’ Sunday Express ‘Atmospheric, vivid and compelling’ My Weekly ‘An excellent, well-researched read’ People’s Friend ‘Perfect for Downton Abbey fans … heart-tugging’ Peterborough Telegraph

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Book SynopsisGripping a compelling and authentic page-turner' Sunday MailA must read!' Reader reviewA sparkling debut!' Reader reviewThe first in an exciting new Scottish crime thriller series. Perfect for fans of L J Ross, Val McDermid and Ann Cleeves.Ex-priest DI Frank Farrell has returned to his roots in Dumfries, only to be landed with a disturbing murder case. Even worse, Farrell knows the victim: Father Boyd, the man who forced him out of the priesthood eighteen years earlier.With no leads, Farrell must delve into the old priest's past, one that is inexorably linked with his own. But his attention is diverted when a pair of twin boys go missing. The Dumfries police force recover one in an abandoned church, unharmed. But where is his brother?As Farrell investigates the two cases, he can't help but feel targeted. Is someone playing a sinister game, or is he seeing patterns that don't exist? Either way, it's a game Farrell needs to win before he loses his grip on his sanity, or someone else turTrade Review‘Gripping … a compelling and authentic page-turner’ Sunday Mail 'A thrilling, pacy police procedural with a very humane heart beating at its core’ Caro Ramsey ‘British crime fiction has a rising star. DI Frank Farrell is flawed, layered and utterly compelling. The plot is intriguing, the supporting characters well-rounded, and the psychology of Catholicism is subtle and effective. A great read’ Mike Craven, author of the D. I. Avison Fluke series ‘Jackie Baldwin is an exciting author whose debut novel is one which will stay with me for a long time … the more I read, the faster I found myself turning the pages … I’m already wondering how long it’ll be before I can read the next instalment’ CrimeSquad.com ‘In her striking debut novel, Jackie Baldwin demonstrates an ease with police procedure, an ear for character and an eye for a strong storytelling. Really looking forward to seeing where she goes next’ Michael Malone ‘Stark and lean, yet deeply layered writing marks Jackie Baldwin out as a rising star on the British crime fiction scene. Dead Man’s Prayer is a compelling, thrilling read, and DI Frank Farrell a character I look forward to meeting again’ Matt Hilton, bestselling author of the Joe Hunter thrillers ‘DEAD MAN'S PRAYER will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Captivating characters, a thrilling plot, and plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing … a gripping thriller and a truly killer read!’ Linda Green, booksofallkinds.weebly.com ‘Gripping … very cleverly plotted … a really promising new crime series’ PortobelloBookBlog

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Book SynopsisHow far would you go to protect your daughter?Deeply intriguing and provocative, ALL IS NOT FORGOTTEN is not to be missed'KARIN SLAUGHTERSince the night she was attacked, Jenny Kramer hasn''t been able to recall what happened. Her parents and the doctors saw to that. Her mother couldn't prevent the terror in the woods, but she's done all she can to stop it ruining Jenny's life. The only thing that now bothers Jenny is the scar carved into her lower back. Which she can't stop touching.But if Jenny can't remember her attacker, he can't be caught. He could be the man next to her right now, the one who caught just her eye.And he hasn't forgotten anythingTrade Review‘Unpredictable’MAIL ON SUNDAY ‘Disturbing’WOMAN ‘Deeply intriguing and provocative, ALL IS NOT FORGOTTEN explores intricate family relationships against the backdrop of searing suspense. A novel filled with twists, surprises and a plot that keeps you guessing, ALL IS NOT FORGOTTEN is not to be missed’–Karin Slaughter 'Original, compelling and very, very clever'–BA Paris, author of BEHIND CLOSED DOORS ‘An assured, powerful, polished novel that blends suspense and rich family drama. Built on a fascinating scientific premise and laced with moral complexity, it is, in a word, unforgettable’ –William Landay, author of DEFENDING JACOB ‘Captivating and bold, Wendy Walker takes an incisive look at the importance of memory and the power of manipulation. Fascinating and at times shocking, ALL IS NOT FORGOTTEN is one book you won t easily forget. Not to be missed! – Mary Kubica, author of THE GOOD GIRL

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Book SynopsisA cosy historical mystery set during the Second World WarI'll come for you, Iris. Mark my words!'When a murder rocks the quiet village of Helmstead, seventeen-year-old Land Girl, Iris Dawson, is determined to prove her friend and local gamekeeper Frank Tucker's innocence. But when she exposes Vernon Storey, the real murderer, her once happy life at Pasture Farm soon becomes a nightmare. Already running from the ghosts of her past back home in Northampton, Iris is now haunted by Vernon, who is out there somewhere and has promised to have his revenge.Iris has never forgiven herself for the tragedy that destroyed her family and how, as a child, she failed her mother, and now the new surrogate family she has at Pasture Farm is fracturing around her. No one believes she is in danger, or that those she loves could also be Vernon's targets in his bid to escape the law, so she must face this battle on her own. A battle that this time, Iris cannot afford to lose, culminating in a desperate raceTrade ReviewPraise for BBC TV series Land Girls: ‘An evocative recreation of the past’ BBC History Magazine ‘Girl Power!’ TV Choice ‘Charming’ TV Easy ‘A sparkling jewel’ TV Times ‘A real daytime drama treat’ Inside Soap Magazine ‘Classy drama’ TV and Satellite Week ‘Fabulous new drama’ Hot TV

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the CWA Debut Dagger AwardThe Times Crime Book of the Month, April 2018A fascinating debut' The Sunday TimesA touch of Agatha Christie, a dash of Ann Cleeves's Vera and a suitably moody setting in the Peaksbring a formidable newcomer to British crime writing.' Daily Mail***A SHOCKING DEATHA lawyer is found dead in a Peak District cave, his face ribboned with scratches.A SINISTER MESSAGEAmidst rumours of a local curse, DI Meg Dalton is convinced this is cold-blooded murder. There''s just one catch chiselled into the cave wall above the body is an image of the grim reaper and the dead man''s initials, and it''s been there for over a century.A DEADLY GAME As Meg battles to solve the increasingly disturbing case, it''s clear someone knows her secrets. The murderer is playing games with Meg and the dice are loadedA white-knuckle crime debut introducing DI Meg Dalton, perfect for fans of Broadchurch and Happy Valley.Trade Review'The Devil’s Dice is a terrific debut by Roz Watkins; it teems with shivery atmosphere and introduces a cop quietly different from most of the women detectives in British crime fiction today.' The Times Crime Book of the Month. ‘An impressive debut… A touch of Agatha Christie, a dash of Ann Cleeves’s Vera and a suitably moody setting in the Peaks…bring a formidable newcomer to British crime writing.’ Daily Mail 'A fascinating debut… Watkins brilliantly balances superstition and scepticism in this clever first novel.' Sunday Times ‘The setting is dramatic, the characters are convincing and the motive for murder, when eventually uncovered, is interesting… A smart enjoyable debut.’ The Literary Review ‘Gripping… This week’s hot read’ Woman Magazine ‘Clever and compelling…fans of Broadchurch and Happy Valley will enjoy this gripping thriller’ Candis Magazine ‘A fabulous book. I can’t wait to meet DI Meg Dalton again’ B A Paris ‘An outstanding debut. The Devil’s Dice had me gripped from the start’ Stephen Booth ‘Twisty, creepy, funny, and you may shed a tear too. More DI Meg Dalton please!’ Caz Frear ‘A fascinating debut with a deliciously old school mystery at its heart. I can’t wait to see what Watkins does next!’ Angela Clarke ‘A pacy, twisty read that had me on the edge of my seat…what a brilliant debut!’ KL Slater ‘Exceptional debut.’ Amanda Robson ‘A humdinger of a debut – whip-smart and with a protagonist you’re guaranteed to want to get behind’ Mel McGrath ‘A smart, intelligent police procedural and a well-crafted mystery set against a beautiful backdrop. Compelling reading.’ Jane Isaac ‘The plot instantly seizes the reader… A great start to a new series.’ Vaseem Khan

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Book SynopsisFrom the USA Today bestselling author of The Girl Who Lied and Sister SisterFour friends.A party to die for.Who will survive?Dear Carys, Zoe and Andrea, come and join me for my 40th birthday adventure weekend, full of mysteries and surprises, the like of which you can't imagine.When Joanne's friends reluctantly accept an invitation to her birthday party, it quickly becomes clear that there is more to this weekend than they are expecting.One of them is hiding a secret. And Joanne is planning to reveal it.A weekend away in a cottage in the woods sounded like fun, until no-one can hear your cries for helpReaders are hooked by The Birthday Girl:A superb page-turner where any one of the cast could be the next victim or the killer culprit' ?????''This book has everything. The intrigue kept me on tenterhooks right to the end. What a story' ?????''Packed with secrets, mystery and sinister happenings, the pace of this book doesn''t let up' ?????''Literally couldn''t put it down, finished it inTrade ReviewPraise for Sue Fortin: ‘Thoroughly gripping…full of suspense’ – Kim The Bookworm ‘Builds to a really tense, nail biting climax’ – BeadyJan ‘I would urge anyone who enjoys a good, fast paced psychological thriller to read it – you won't be disappointed!’ – Bookish Bits ‘A clever psychological thriller full of false clues and intrigue’ – Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews ‘A gripping romantic suspense novel with some excellent tension and a twist or two…Well worth a read’ – DnS Media ‘Gripping, vivid, dramatic, emotional, touching, adventurous brilliant and much more…it’s worth every single page’ – Sky’s Book Corner ‘A great page turner’ – Bleach House Library ‘I went through so many emotions reading this book – the worst being panic and fear…a brilliant book’ – Crooks on Books ‘Sue Fortin cleverly creates a sense of urgency and suspense that compels you to read on’ – Laura’s Little Book Blog ‘A good balance between the tense, psychological, and romantic events, which culminates in a climatic ending…for fans of Sleeping with the Enemy’ – Bookboodle ‘A gripping climax full of danger’ – ElaineG, 5 Star Reads ‘Kept me turning the pages’ – Mandy Baggot, author of ‘Truly Madly Greekly’ ‘5 Words: Tense, shocking, mysterious, deceit, stalker’ – Tea Party Princess ‘An excellent read’ – Read Along With Sue

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Book SynopsisWhat a rollercoaster of a read!' LISA HALL, bestselling author of Between You and MeTwo girls go missing, decades apart. What would you do if one was your daughter?When eight-year-old Grace goes missing from a sweetshop on the way home from school, her mother Emma is plunged into a nightmare. Her family rallies around, but as the police hunt begins, cracks begin to emerge.What are the secret emails sent between Emma's husband and her sister? Why does her mother take so long to join the search? And is Emma really as innocent as she seems?Meanwhile, ageing widow Maggie Taylor sees Grace's picture in the newspaper. It's a photograph that jolts her from the pain of her existence into a spiralling obsession with another girl the first girl who disappearedThis is a gripping psychological thriller with a killer twist that will take your breath away.A wonderfully assured debut about every parent's darkest nightmare expertly weaving a family's story together with a real sense of tension and sTrade Review‘A wonderfully assured debut about every parent’s darkest nightmare – expertly weaving a family’s story together with a real sense of tension and some great twists. Highly recommended.’ TM Logan, bestselling author of LIES ‘An intense domestic thriller, twists and turns galore, and a host of family secrets. An absorbing read.’ PAUL FINCH, bestselling author of STRANGERS ‘Libby Carpenter's beautiful writing draws you in immediately. Her characterisation is superb, and she skillfully delivers a pacey, suspenseful plot. 99 Red Balloons is an intelligent, taut and compelling thriller that manages to pack a punch - and still throws you right at the end. It's perfect - I loved every word.’ SAM CARRINGTON, bestselling author of SAVING SOPHIE ‘I LOVED 99 Red Balloons. What a rollercoaster of a read! I swear, you could almost SEE the moment when everything clicked into place in my head! A brilliant, tense, pacy read.’ LISA HALL, bestselling author of BETWEEN ME AND YOU ‘This sharp, poignant domestic noir is like watching a snake slither towards its prey. You want to look away but somehow you can't stop looking. Carpenter emerges as an addictive new talent, climbing inside the characters and opening them up for the reader to devour. What a wonderful debut!’ HELEN FIELDS, author or PERFECT REMAINS 'I loved this book. It is a thoroughly satisfying page turning read, full of characterisation and pathos. The empathy I felt towards the characters is to me , for a crime novel, what makes it stand out. Very well written and the plot is seamless.’ AMANDA ROBSON, author of OBSESSION

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Book SynopsisTwo rival families. One East End. The explosive first novel in the Mitchells & O'Haras trilogyFor more than a decade, two East End families have been locked in a bitter war.On one side are the Mitchells, a notorious underworld mob from East London's Canning Town. They have an iron in every fire and will resort to intimidation and violence to get what they want.On the other side are the O'Haras. The Mitchells' biggest rivals are a travelling family who live in nearby Stratford. They compete with the Mitchells for pub protection, and the two families hate each other.Caught between these two families at war are two innocent children, who will grow up to love the wrong people and spark the last terrible act in the long-running feud.The Mitchells & O'Haras TrilogyTrade ReviewPraise for Kimberley Chambers: ‘This beautifully crafted, sharp, well-paced novel will keep you hooked until the very end. An outstanding tale of betrayal, violence and love. Buy it. Read it. You'll love it. I did’ Amanda Prowse ‘[Kimberley Chambers is] the queen of the gritty, low-life tale . . .a fast-paced, thrill-a-minute ride that takes you on all sorts of twists and turns’ Bella ‘Easily as good as Martina Cole’ News of the World ‘Brilliantly delivers a story of violence, treachery and family ties… Easy to read and hard to put down’ News of the World ‘[a] fast-paced tale with gritty authenticity’ The Guardian

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE WILBUR SMITH ADVENTURE WRITING PRIZE 2018''A great, gripping story, ferociously well-written, with characters that live and breathe'' STEF PENNEY, bestselling author of Under a Pole StarTim Harding has spent the fishing season in Canada working as a deckhand, making an honest living. When his hot-headed younger brother tracks him down at the shipyards in Vancouver, Tim senses trouble. Jake is a drifter, a dreamer, an ex-con, and now he needs help in repaying a debt to the notorious Delaney gang.So begins an epic, unpredictable odyssey across land and sea as the brothers journey down to the Delaney's ranch in the U.S., chased by customs officials, freak storms and the gnawing feeling that their luck is about to run out. But while they may be able to outrun the law, there's no escaping the ghosts of their tragic family past and neither is prepared for who and what awaits at the other endTrade Review'A great, gripping story, ferociously well-written, with characters that live and breathe' STEF PENNEY, bestselling author of Under a Pole Star ‘Keevil's writing is unmissable… quite simply a brilliant writer’ VIV GROSKOP, author of The Anna Karenina Fix ‘No Good Brother is suspenseful – but it’s also funny … the final chapters of the novel are a pulse-thumping ride into the unknown, showing that it is an adventure for our times – and one that consistently forces readers to cheer for the Harding brothers right up until the end’ The Cardiff Review ‘No Good Brother is a paean to brotherly loyalty and a meditation on the things we can change and the things we must learn to love regardless. It is also the funniest and most exciting book I’ve read in years. A grand adventure in the spirit of Mark Twain, it is reckless and wild and beautiful, like something dreamed up by Cormac McCarthy and Hunter S Thompson on a drunken camping trip’ D.D. JOHNSTON, author of Peace, Love & Petrol Bombs ‘A tender and at turns thrilling novel about grief and the way it seeps unshakably into the lives of the living. Keevil’s storytelling is both elegant and meaty and his prose stunning as per; I could almost taste the bitter sea air of Vancouver’s North Shore' RACHEL TREZISE, author of Fresh Apples ‘Quite a story. Keevil's prose proceeds with the laconic madness of a patient horse, and the same ability to buck and kick’ CYNAN JONES, author of The Dig Praise for Burrard Inlet: ‘I was blown away. Beautiful writing…stunning.’ MIRIAM TOEWS author of All My Puny Sorrows ‘Vividly told…compelling.’ CARYS BRAY, author of A Song For Issy Bradley ‘Beneath the deceptively calm surface of these spare and beautiful stories, mad passions boil. There is a transatlantic tradition of studying the interaction between men and nature, in such figures as Hemingway, Carver, McGuane; now Keevil extends and enriches that lineage. He truly is that good.’ NIALL GRIFFITHS, author of Grits & Kelly & Victor

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Book SynopsisReturn to a world of crystal armour, savage wilderness, and corrupt dynasties in book two of The Deathless series from Gemmell award-winning author Peter Newman.THE REBELFor years, Vasin Sapphire has been waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. Now, as other Deathless families come under constant assault from the monsters that roam the Wild, that time has come.THE RUTHLESSIn the floating castle of Rochant Sapphire, loyal subjects await the ceremony to return their ruler to his rightful place. But the child raised to give up his body to Lord Rochant is no ordinary servant. Strange and savage, he will stop at nothing to escape his gilded prison.AND THE RETURNEDFar below, another child yearns to see the human world. Raised by a creature of the Wild, he knows their secrets better than any other. As he enters into the struggle between the Deathless houses, he may be the key to protecting their power or destroying it completely.THE WILD HAS BEGUN TO RISETrade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE DEATHLESS: ‘A unique world’Robin Hobb, bestselling author of ASSASSIN’S APPRENTICE ‘A compelling, vivid and skilfully crafted tale’SFX ‘Addictive’Starburst

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Book SynopsisSometimes you have to go a long way to find what you're looking for. And sometimes a little beginner's luck is all you need Welcome to the First Class India USA Destination Vacation Tour Company One fixed itinerary, one fixed price All levels catered for No refunds BeginnerRecently widowed Pival Sengupta has never travelled alone before and her first trip to this strange country masks a secret agenda: to find out the truth about her long-estranged son.IntermediateSatya, her guileless and resourceful tour guide, has been in America for less than a year and has never actually left the five boroughs of New York.AdvancedAn aspiring/failing actress, Rebecca signed up for the role of Pival's modesty companion; it might not be her big break but surely it'll break her out of the rut she's stuck in.As their preconceptions about each other and about America are challenged, with a little beginner's luck, these unlikely companions might learn how to live again.A big-hearted, hilarious tale of forTrade Review‘An entrancing road-trip novel… humane, frank and funny’ Deborah Moggach ‘A witty, wise and compelling romp’ Helen Lederer

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Book SynopsisOne private island. Seven guests. One killerThe perfect holiday. The perfect murder. The perfect beach read.Get away from your problems.Multimillionaire Robert Rathwell and his entourage arrive at their private Greek island. White sand, turquoise water, the perfect place to relax. But this is no ordinary family, and this holiday will be their last.Get away from your life.The next morning, a scream shatters their peaceful world. Someone has been murdered, his body arranged to make it look like suicide. Everyone has a motive and, under the burning sun, secrets quickly simmer to the surface.Get away with murder.Soon the guests see a darker, more violent side to paradise. Because the Rathwells don't just own the island; they own the people on it. And they can do whatever they like maybe even commit murderTrade Review‘The perfect summer thriller. Sun, sea, secrets and murder, The Getaway twists and turns with a plot as scorching as the setting.’ Chris Whitaker ‘Full of ingenious twists and turns, The Getaway grabs hold and never lets you go. A killer summer read.’ Phoebe Morgan ‘An ideal summer book set on an idyllic private island where everyone has secrets and seemingly no one can be trusted. Twisty and tense – a great read.’ Catherine Cooper ‘Beautifully set on the Greek island that is home to the dysfunctional Rathwell family, The Getaway is deliciously twisted and compelling, the tension building until just when you think you know what's going on, there's yet another twist. A highly recommended summer read.’ Debbie Howells ‘A superb book which maintained the mystery and intrigue throughout and kept me guessing the who and why. The revealing of the character's secrets and fears are excellently done and the overall majesty and secrecy play out very well.’ James Delargy PRAISE FOR ROSS ARMSTRONG: ‘Quirky, offbeat, stylish and original. I loved it’ Mick Herron ‘Ross Armstrong has created a brilliant hero in Tom, and this novel is an enjoyable addition to the psychological thriller genre. Five Stars’ Heat ‘Like Christopher Nolan’s Memento, Ross Armstrong delivers a twisty mystery through the perspective of a fractured brain. Original and gripping. Tom Mondrian, and his unique outlook, will stay with me’ Peter Swanson ‘An eerily atmospheric reworking of Hitchcock’s Rear Window’ Guardian ‘Addictive and eerie, you’ll finish the book wanting to chat about it’ Closer ‘Ross Armstrong will feed your appetite for suspense’ Evening Standard ‘Unreliable narrator + Rear Window-esque plot = sure-fire hit’ Sun ‘A dark, unsettling page turner’ Claire Douglas, author of Local Girl Missing

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Book SynopsisINCENDIARY, TIMELY AND AUTHENTIC' Crime MonthlyORIGINAL AND DISTURBING' Sunday Times'UNDERLINES HOW FINE A WRITER NEWHAM IS' Daily MailA tragic accident or a ruthless killer?When a flash mob on Brick Lane is interrupted by a sudden explosion, DI Maya Rahman dashes to the scene. A fire is raging through one of the city's most infamous streets, the site of Maya's childhood home. And the discovery of two charred bodies in the burnt-out building transforms an arson attack into a murder case.With witnesses too caught up in the crowd to have seen anything useful, Maya is facing a complex investigation without a single lead. And, when reports of a second, even more horrifying crime land on Maya's desk, it's obvious there's more at stake than she could ever have imagined. She must find the answers before all of East London goes up in flames.Praise for Out of the Ashes:Perfectly formed police procedural, elevated by a real sense of social conscience' HeatReinvigorates the traditional police pTrade Review Praise for Out of the Ashes: ‘Perfectly formed police procedural, elevated by a real sense of social conscience’ Heat ‘Reinvigorates the traditional police procedural … Maya Rahman is a brilliant addition to the canon of flawed-but-dogged detectives. Incendiary, timely and authentic’ Crime Monthly ‘Underlines how fine a writer Newham is and how fascinating her heroine is becoming. It’s no surprise Newham taught psychology in the East End before turning to writing – her unflinching eye and understanding of the area inhabit every sentence’ Daily Mail ‘Newham’s plots are original and disturbing, revealing aspects of Britain that don’t often appear in contemporary crime fiction’ Sunday Times ‘Newham’s gift is to make her complex, flawed characters live and breathe’ Times and Sunday Times Crime Club ‘This cracking police procedural which exudes East End authenticity is destined to have you on the edge of your seat’ Crime Fiction Lover ‘Another clever thriller’ Sunday Times bestselling author Paul Finch ‘Newham serves up an intriguing plot, with a complex, layered police investigation at its heart, whilst drawing on her experience of the East End to weave in another microscopic examination of the cultural diversity of this part of the capital. A sterling follow-up’ Vaseem Khan ‘An intriguing premise developed into an authentic, thought-provoking read that I struggled to put down. A captivating book with larger than life characters you will want to know more about’ 5* from Caroline Mitchell ‘Captivating from the first page to the last’ 5* from Jane Isaac 'An intelligent, classy, and thought-provoking novel' Louise Beech, author of Call Me Star Girl

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Book SynopsisYou don't choose them. They choose you.Tense and atmospheric' Lisa HallChillingly authentic' GuardianTHE THRILLING SEQUEL SHADOW OF FOG ISLAND IS AVAILABLE NOW!Sofia has just finished university and ended a troubled relationship when she attends a lecture about a New Age movement, Via Terra. Its leader is Franz Oswald, young, good-looking, urbane and mesmerizing.When Sofia meets Franz Oswald, the handsome, charming leader of a mysterious New Age movement, she's dazzled and intrigued. Visiting his headquarters on Fog Island, Sofia's struck by the beautiful mansion overlooking the sea, the gardens, the sense of peace and the purposefulness of the people who live there. And she can't ignore the attraction she feels for Franz.So she agrees to stay, just for a while. But as summer gives way to winter, and the dense fog from which the island draws its name sets in, it becomes clear that Franz rules the island with an iron fist. No phones or computers are allowed. Contact with the mainland is severed. Electric fences surround the grounds. And Sofia begins to realize how very alone she is and that no one ever leaves Fog IslandFlowers in the Attic meets The Girls, Fog Island is a gripping combination of fear, sexual tension and lethal fascination.Praise for Fog Island:I loved it tense and atmospheric, slowly drawing the reader in to a reality that is utterly terrifying' Lisa Hall, bestselling author of Have You Seen Her and The Perfect CoupleChillingly authentic' GuardianAn intense, terrifying, and utterly believable journey into the shadowy world of cult leaders and cult members. A just-one-more-page thriller that will have you reading late into the night and holding your breath until the very end. I loved it!' Karen Dionne, internationally bestselling author of HomeAn interesting exposition of the psychology and the insidious methods that govern cults' Daily MailA vivid crime novel' ExpressThis intense thriller completely grips you from the off' HeatTrade Review Praise for Fog Island: ‘I loved it – tense and atmospheric, slowly drawing the reader in to a reality that is utterly terrifying’ Lisa Hall, bestselling author of Have You Seen Her and The Perfect Couple ‘Chillingly authentic’ Guardian ‘An intense, terrifying, and utterly believable journey into the shadowy world of cult leaders and cult members. A just-one-more-page thriller that will have you reading late into the night and holding your breath until the very end. I loved it!’ Karen Dionne, internationally bestselling author of Home ‘An interesting exposition of the psychology and the insidious methods that govern cults’ Daily Mail ‘A vivid crime novel’ Express ‘This intense thriller completely grips you from the off’ Heat ‘Gripping from start to finish’ NetGalley Reviewer ‘This book is hauntingly superb’ Goodreads Reviewer ‘I could not put it down until the very end’ NetGalley Reviewer

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Book SynopsisAn old woman in a nursing home speaks of a child buried behind the fireplaceWhen Tommy and Tuppence visited an elderly aunt in her gothic nursing home, they thought nothing of her mistrust of the doctors; after all, Ada was a very difficult old lady.But when Mrs Lockett mentioned a poisoned mushroom stew and Mrs Lancaster talked about something behind the fireplace', Tommy and Tuppence found themselves caught up in an unexpected adventure involving possible black magicTrade Review‘The most macabre and eerie Christie I have read for a long time.’Sunday Express ‘All beautifully plotted in the way that Mrs Christie is famous for. The title is from Macbeth: “By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes.” Wicked indeed!’Best Sellers ‘Ladies disappearing from homes of rest, sinister empty houses, hints of gang-leaders mixed with black magic – mystery at the usual high Christie level.’Evening Standard ‘Devised with fiendish ingenuity in the classic Christie cast.’Illustrated London News

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Book SynopsisA beautiful heiress is fatally poisoned in a West End restaurantSix people sit down to dinner at a table laid for seven. In front of the empty place is a sprig of rosemary in solemn memory of Rosemary Barton who died at the same table exactly one year previously.No one present on that fateful night would ever forget the woman's face, contorted beyond recognition or what they remembered about her astonishing life.Trade Review“The denoument will probably come as a surprise to nine readers out of ten”New York Times “SPARKLING CYANIDE is the one … which I should take with me to a desert island; for I find in it a seriousness and a psychological insight unparalleled in the author’s other works.’ Times Literary Supplement

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Book SynopsisA poisoning many years ago may not have been accidental after allTommy and Tuppence Beresford have just become the proud owners of an old house in an English village. Along with the property, they have inherited some worthless bric-a-brac, including a collection of antique books. While rustling through a copy of The Black Arrow, Tuppence comes upon a series of apparently random underlinings.However, when she writes down the letters, they spell out a very disturbing message:M a r y J o r d a n d i d n o t d i e n a t u r a l l yAnd sixty years after their first murder, Mary Jordan''s enemies are still ready to killTrade Review‘The Beresfords are wonderfully revived. Smooth, beautifully paced, and effortlessly convincing.’New York Times ‘Past and present interlock impressively… this is a genuine tour de force.’Observer

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Book SynopsisAgatha Christie’s ingenious murder mystery, reissued with a striking new cover designed to appeal to the latest generation of Agatha Christie fans and book lovers.Trade Review“Despite only five suspects, Mrs Christie as usual puts a ring through the reader’s nose and leads him to one of her smashing last-minute showdowns.” Observer “The answer to the riddle is brilliant.” Times Literary Supplement “A brilliant piece of detective fiction, in which character plays an important part.” Daily Telegraph “Straightforward bamboozling from start to finish.” New Statesman “As usual, Mrs Christie hoaxes us with a double twist at the denouement, and provides excellent entertainment.” Punch “Agatha Christie never fails us, and her Five Little Pigs presents a very pretty problem for the ingenious reader.” Manchester Guardian

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Book SynopsisA Caribbean resortStrangers thrown togetherIs there evil in paradise?Major Palgrave enjoys an audience, and, in Miss Marple, he discovers a captive audience too polite to walk away.But midway through recounting the tale of a multiple murder, he stops suddenly when something, or someone, catches his eye.Then, when he's found dead the following day, Miss Marple suspects that someone wanted to silence the talkative major. Permanently.Never underestimate Miss MarpleThere's no such thing as a disappointing Agatha Christie: there are only good ones and better ones.'Naomi AldermanLivelieness . . . infectious zest . . . as good as anything Miss Christie has done.'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 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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