Crime & Thrillers Books

Book SynopsisONE DEAD BODY. TWELVE SUSPECTS. TWENTY-FOUR-HOUR DARKNESS.'Outstanding ... Haughton writes vividly about a claustrophobic community ... her novel really is a superlative locked-room mystery' Sunday Times (Crime Book of the Month)'Haughton has created a fantastically atmospheric setting ... it's a chilling race to the finish to discover whodunnit' ObserverIn the most inhospitable environment - cut off from the rest of the world - there's a killer on the loose.A&E doctor Kate North has been knocked out of her orbit by a personal tragedy. So when she's offered the opportunity to be an emergency replacement at the UN research station in Antarctica, she jumps at the chance. The previous doctor, Jean-Luc, died in a tragic accident while out on the ice.The move seems an ideal solution for Kate: no one knows about her past; no one is checking up on her. But as total darkness descends for the winter, she begins to suspect that Jean-Luc's death wasn't accidental at all.And the more questions she asks, the more dangerous it becomes . . .'A sense of growing menace pervades ... the freezing wasteland and claustrophobic workings of the research station are finely rendered' Financial Times'The kind of heart-pounding, sleep-stealing read that you want to recommend to everyone you meet. An absolutely thrilling book' CASS GREEN'Chilling and atmospheric . . . had me turning the pages late into the night' MARK EDWARDS'Tense, thrilling and unpredictable, with one of the most unique and dangerous settings imaginable' ALLIE REYNOLDS'Set against the dangerous sub-zero temperatures end endless night of the Antarctic... Brilliantly atmospheric and terrifying' CATHERINE COOPER'Tense, twisted and quite literally chilling - a locked room mystery in a unique setting where no one can be trusted' SUSI HOLLIDAY'Atmospheric, original and full of tension' AMANDA JENNINGS'A real edge-of-the-seat plot. I loved it. Original and accomplished' J.A. CORRIGANTrade ReviewTHE DARK is the kind of heart-pounding, sleep-stealing read that you want to recommend to everyone you meet. An absolutely thrilling book * Cass Green *Chilling and atmospheric, THE DARK had me turning the pages late into the night * Mark Edwards *Tense, thrilling and unpredictable, with one of the most unique and dangerous settings imaginable, THE DARK is a totally chilling read * Allie Reynolds, author of SHIVER *A real edge-of-the-seat plot. I loved it * J.A. Corrigan *Tense, twisted and quite literally chilling - a locked room mystery in a unique setting where no one can be trusted * Susi Holliday *Atmospheric, original and full of tension * Amanda Jennings *Set against the dangerous sub-zero temperatures end endless night of the Antarctic, there's a killer on the base who could be anyone. Brilliantly atmospheric and terrifying * Catherine Cooper, author of Sunday Times bestseller THE CHALET *Anyone who loves a genuine page-turner with hugely believable characters at its core will adore it * On Magazine *A modern-day Agatha Christie on ice, this is so remarkably well written, that you'll start shivering while you read it! A chillingly good pick * Woman & Home Online *A modern-day Agatha Christie on ice, you'll get shivers as you read it * Woman & Home *Exciting and involving, this has the makings of a classic thriller * Literary Review *This claustrophobic locked room mystery will definitely give you chills * Real People Mag *Gripping * Heat *You'll get shivers as you read it * Women's Own *Outstanding * Sunday Times, Crime Book of the Month *Haughton has created a fantastically atmospheric setting . . . its a chilling race to the finish to discover whodunnit * The Observer *Perfect * Grazia *This tension packed story is like a Christie whodunnit on ice. The creeping dear and icy setting leaves you gasping * The Peterborough Telegraph *Fantastic and atmospheric debut thriller, dark in more ways than one * NB Magazine *A sense of growing menace pervades Emma Haughton's The Dark . . . the freezing wasteland and the claustrophobic workings of the research station are finely rendered * Financial Times *Great characterisation, possible unreliable narrator, increasingly tense plot * Marian Keyes *Terrific . . . modern locked-room mystery * The Times and Sunday times, Best Crime Books 2021 *

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Book Synopsis The day she left was only the beginning . . .Sam was eleven when his mother went out and never came back. He waited for her and then he grieved for her, as his family fell apart around him.Sam tried to get on with his life in the intervening years. But it's only as his father lies dying that Sam begins to realise the cracks and inconsistencies in their family history.Who was his mother and why did she need to disappear? Why cover it up? As Sam searches for answers, and the trial leads him from the UK to the US, danger builds around him . . .Taut, thrilling and full of tension, YOU NEVER SAID GOODBYE is about a man who discovers his entire life is built on lies. But what price is the truth?Praise for Luca Veste:'Fantastic' MARK BILLINGHAM'High-concept serial killer thriller with twists and heart. Stunning' STEVE CAVANAGH'Properly Stephen King-style creepy' IAN RANKIN'Perfectly terrifying' AMANDA JENNINGS'Seriously creepy with a killer twist - Luca Veste goes from strength to strength' MARK EDWARDS'Creepy and compelling. The serial killer thriller of the year' MASON CROSS'Urban legend meets serial killer thriller - terrifying' STUART NEVILLETrade ReviewGrips from the first page to the last. A UK thriller writer that gives giants like Linwood Barclay and Harlan Coben a run for their money -- Mark BillinghamLocal Woman Missing meets The Fugitive, You Never Said Goodbye breathes new life into the psychological thriller genre with a captivating and gripping storyline that is part missing person mystery, part all out action thriller. A heart-in-mouth story that will pull at your heart strings and keep you on the edge of your seat, You Never Said Goodbye is everything I look for in an action thriller. I couldn't put it down * C.L. Taylor *A truly pulse-pounding thriller. The relentless tension is leavened only by its heart-rending emotion * Christopher Brookmyre *A barnstorming, rocket-paced thriller about an ordinary man thrown into an extraordinary situation. Fans of John Connolly and Linwood Barclay will love it * Mark Edwards *An absolutely gripping and immersive thrill ride from start to finish. A white-knuckle rollercoaster that's also full of heart and soul * Doug Johnstone *Action packed suspense * The Sunday Times Crime Club *This is an electrifying edge-of-the-seat thriller, a must-read for fans of Harlan Coben * Candis *This is a rip-roaring and, at times, a touching thriller from a writer who has been favourably compared to Harlan Coben and Linwood Barclay...and rightly so. Heart pumping action...thoroughly recommended and a must for everyone who enjoys high octane thrills * Belfast Telegraph *There are many gasp-inducing revelations before skilful writer Veste produces a gripping and surprise climax. * Peterborough Telegraph *

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Book Synopsis'A sparkling debut . . . a very good plot-driven thriller dressed in a glittery jumpsuit' Guardian'Brutal, glamorous and genuinely unpredictable, it will blow your mind until the very last page' StylistIntoxicating, compulsive and blackly funny, Other People's Clothes is the thrilling novel from Berlin-based American artist Calla Henkel.Berlin, 2009. Two young art students arrive from New York, desperately hoping to reinvent themselves. Renting an apartment from an eccentric crime writer, Zoe and Hailey spend their nights twisting through Berlin's club scene and their days hungover. Then inexplicable things start happening in the apartment. Are they being spied on?Suspecting their landlady of using their lives for her next novel, they decide to beat her at her own game, hosting wild parties that quickly gain notoriety. But as events spiral out of control, they begin to wonder whose story they are living - and how it will end.'Utterly addictive. I couldn't stop turning the pages' Megan AbbottTrade ReviewA sparkling debut . . . this is a very good plot-driven thriller dressed in a glittery jumpsuit. There are laugh-out-loud lines throughout. -- Rhiannon Cosslett * Guardian *Truly original . . . Brutal, glamorous and genuinely unpredictable, it will blow your mind until the very last page. -- Moya Crockett * Stylist *Fuelled by a creeping sense of unease, this is a wild, energetic gem of a novel that is entirely involving. -- Fanny Blake * Daily Mail *Thrilling * Cosmopolitan *Hugely entertaining * New York Times *Sharply observed and very funny . . . a worthy addition to the growing canon of outsider writing on Berlin . . . Henkel has an exacting eye for subtle situational humour, and she excels at describing the sorts of characters one encounters in the German capital . . . Calla Henkel cleverly manipulates expectations to build tension until the very end. -- Jessica Loudis * TLS *The most fun novel I've read this year . . . I kept reading late into the night to find out, enjoying every moment. -- Laura Waddell * The Scotsman *Darkly funny, psychologically rich and utterly addictive. I couldn't stop turning the pages . . .This is a debut you won't want to miss. -- Megan AbbottFull of delicious layers . . . I felt drunk reading it. -- Emma Jane UnsworthOther People's Clothes feels like reading a thriller by your most acerbic friend. -- Rowan Hisayo Buchanan, author of Starling DaysA darkly funny crime thriller . . . Henkel draws up a dazzling and vaudevillian image of the artworld, one that feels all too strange and too real at once. * ArtNet *Gleefully raunchy * Washington Post *In Henkel's exciting and visceral debut novel, two New York art students spend a year in Berlin, where they get caught up in a swirl of seedy nightclubs and cut-rate booze. Their toxic entanglement is the true star here, but there are plenty of wild revelations to keep a reader turning the pages * New York Times Book Review (Editor's Choice) *

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Book Synopsis'Deeply moving and beautifully written' ANN CLEEVES'Heart-breaking, beautiful and thrilling - a book that will stay with you for a very long time' ELLY GRIFFITHS'A tale of devastating secrets, brilliantly told' RORY CLEMENTSSHE CAN'T HAVE A FUTURE UNTIL SHE HAS A PAST.1944LEO STERN arrives at the Nazi camp at Borek with his wife Irena and his two daughters. The Sterns are spared from the gas chamber when they witness a murder. But in a place that humanity has deserted, Leo is forced to make unimaginable choices to try to keep his family alive. 1961 For seventeen years, Hanna has been unable to remember her identity and how she was separated from her family at the end of the war, until the discovery of a letter among her late uncle's possessions reveals her real name - HANNA STERN - and leads her to Berlin in search of her lost past.Helped by former lover Peter, Hanna begins to piece together the shocking final days of Borek. But Hanna isn't the only one with an interest in the camp, and lurking in the shadows is someone who would prefer Hanna's history to remain silent. Based on in-depth research and beautifully written, this a novel of memory and identity, and the long shadow of war.'Taking the reader from the atmospheric Fenlands of Cambridgeshire to the ghost-filled forests of wartime Poland and finally into Cold War-era Berlin, The Silent Child is a thought-provoking and compelling novel about the long-lasting aftershocks of war. This is great storytelling, full of mysteries and twists, epic in its sweep, but precise and respectful in its historical details. J. G. Kelly's vividly evoked scenes will stay with me for a long time' CAROLINE SCOTT'Outstanding. Heartstopping. Brilliant. A story that scorches the page, searing in its honesty and profoundly moving in its emotional impact. The characters reach out to you and challenge your preconceptions in this testament to a tragic chapter of history that moved me to tears. It holds up a dark and shocking mirror to our world, yet ultimately it is a triumphant tale of light within darkness. This is an important, powerful novel that everyone should read' KATE FURNIVALL'This book was such a beautifully written book that will stay with me for a long time. The storyline was emotive and heart wrenching and the characters were well developed and have a special place in my heart. I didn't want this book to end. Nothing I could say would do this book justice, I cannot recommend this book enough' Reader review'It's beautifully written with a story that draws you in so quickly, it's very well researched and heartbreakingly realistic. A book I wanted and needed to finish. The sort of book everyone should read. The most compelling book I've read this year' Reader review'Utterly impossible for me to put down. A heartbreaking story... I found I had devoured the entire book in just one sitting... I have loved this book so much, I wish I could give it five hundred stars. All I can say is "WOW - read it. You won't be disappointed' Reader review 'I was engrossed in the story. The author has done tremendous research about the war and did a good job of drawing the reader into the story' Reader reviewTrade ReviewOutstanding. Heartstopping. Brilliant. A story that scorches the page, searing in its honesty and profoundly moving in its emotional impact. The characters reach out to you and challenge your preconceptions in this testament to a tragic chapter of history that moved me to tears. It holds up a dark and shocking mirror to our world, yet ultimately it is a triumphant tale of light within darkness. Of love surviving hate. Impressively researched and superbly told, this is an important powerful novel that everyone should read -- Kate Furnivall, author of top ten bestseller The LiberationTaking the reader from the atmospheric Fenlands of Cambridgeshire to the ghost-filled forests of wartime Poland and finally into Cold War-era Berlin, The Silent Child is a thought-provoking and compelling novel about the long-lasting aftershocks of war. This is great storytelling, full of mysteries and twists, epic in its sweep, but precise and respectful in its historical details. J. G. Kelly's vividly evoked scenes will stay with me for a long time -- Caroline Scott

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Book SynopsisThe White Lie is an up-market historical crime thriller based on the legend of Captain Scott.THE LEGEND1913.Captain Scott and his four companions reach the South Pole to find their Norwegian rival Roald Amundsen has won the race. Defeated, they set out on the 850-mile journey to their ship. Apsley Cherry-Garrard, the explorer sent out to meet them at One Ton depot, peering South through thick spectacles, sees only an infinity of white, and turns back. A year later Scott''s pitched tent is found, just ten miles from the depot, and the bodies within speak of hunger, the unbearable strain of hauling the sledge, and the brutal winter cold. They lie in a tomb of ice. Cherry is left forever tormented by thoughts of what might have been.THE TRUTH1969. Ten years after Cherry''s death, Falcon Grey - who as an orphan of the Blitz was brought up at the explorer''s country estate - receives a bequest: a small red notebook

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Book Synopsis*** THE SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER ***'A brilliant historical crime read' Bella'This thrilling and twisty crime novel is perfect for fans of Martina Cole' My Weekly'A rollercoaster of crime, revenge and murder' The SunBEHIND EVERY STRONG WOMAN IS AN EPIC STORY...In the early years of the last century, a desperate young girl changes her name and flees the confines of her brutal, dominating gangland family in London. Now calling herself 'Diamond Dupree', she goes to Paris to become an artist's model but the world there is different to what she had supposed it would be and she soon falls on hard times. When she manages to escape at the end of the First World War, she leaves behind her a mystery - and a dead man.Back home in London, she reluctantly re-joins the Soho family 'firm' she'd once been glad to leave behind. Having grown tougher during her time in Paris, she soon becomes a force to be reckoned with, a feared and respected gangland queen. But then she meets Richard Beaumont, the youngest son of a wealthy aristocratic family, and sparks fly. But can she escape the long arm of the law and the hangman's noose, when the crimes of her past finally catch up with her?For fans of Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers, as well as viewers of Peaky Blinders, this is historical crime fiction at its most compelling.'No one delves into the underworld like Keane!' Woman's Weekly'A gritty and enlightening read' Yours'Authentically gritty' Crime MonthlyTrade ReviewA brilliant historical crime read * Bella *An epic drama starring an unforgettable heroine. Keane...has a wicked eye for the ruthless, fiercely factional criminal underworld and her books never fail to pack a powerful punch... Every story that Keane writes transports her readers into the heart of a terrifying but addictive underworld, and into the lives of people of every shade... And this cracking page-turner is certainly packed with Keane's trademark cast of larger-than-life characters - each superbly fleshed out and each inhabiting a world so palpably real that we can feel the menace... Brimming with drama, suspense, cruelty and the kind of gobsmacking violence that has made Keane one of the most powerful writers in contemporary crime fiction, this is full-on, eye-watering (of every kind!) entertainment from start to finish * Lancashire Evening Post *This thrilling and twisty crime novel is perfect for fans of Martina Cole * My Weekly *Mills & Boon meets Peaky Blinders in a mix of heaving bosoms and cut-throat razors * The Sun *A gritty and enlightening read * Yours *No one delves into the underworld like Keane! * Woman's Weekly *Authentically gritty * Crime Monthly *

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Book SynopsisTHE CARTER WOMEN DON'T FOLLOW THE RULES: THEY MAKE THEM.The brilliant new gangland thriller from the Sunday Times bestselling author of DIAMOND.Gangster Max Carter and his ex-wife Annie Carter are leading separate lives in separate countries: past hurts and broken promises cannot be resolved. But then a summons to Majorca and a tragic death makes Max question all that has happened to him over many years.He had two brothers - both are now dead. His closest friend has been found hanging from a London bridge. As the police wrestle with a seemingly unsolvable case, Max is forced to revisit his painful past to find answers to a mystery that seems to make no sense at all. Who is targeting his family and why?Annie Carter is at a crossroads in life. She has a luxurious lifestyle but no one to share it with, and Max clearly thinks she is in danger too. Her daughter, Layla, has left her mafia lover Alberto Barolli and is back in London, stumbling into the police investigation and making waves. You should never go back, so the old saying goes. But then, the Carter women don't follow the rules, they make them.And when the truth of what's been happening is finally revealed, will the Carter family stand together - or will it finish them for good?'We love a gangland thriller - and no one writes them better than Jessie Keane' CLOSER'If you enjoy gangster flicks such as Legend you'll love Never Go Back' YOURS* PRE-ORDER JESSIE'S NEXT NOVEL, DEAD HEAT, NOW! *

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Book Synopsis'Teeming with details of the Brontës, of the times and the city, this is such a pleasurable read' - NB Magazine 'Captivating' - Crime Monthly'Filled with twists, turns and Gothic touches, and a strong feminist streak' - Bradford TelegraphThe Brontë sisters' first poetry collection has just been published, potentially marking an end to their careers as amateur detectors, when Anne receives a letter from her former pupil Lydia Robinson.Lydia has eloped with a young actor, Harry Roxby, and following her disinheritance, the couple been living in poverty in London. Harry has become embroiled with a criminal gang and is in terrible danger after allegedly losing something very valuable that he was meant to deliver to their leader. The desperate and heavily pregnant Lydia has a week to return what her husband supposedly stole, or he will be killed. She knows there are few people who she can turn to in this time of need, but the sisters agree to help Lydia, beginning a race against time to save Harry's life.In doing so, our intrepid sisters come face to face with a terrifying adversary whom even the toughest of the slum-dwellers are afraid of . . . The Red Monarch.Praise for Bella Ellis and the series:'Evocative and utterly enchanting' Sarah Hilary'Bella Ellis is a very special talent' Angela Clarke'Brilliantly entertaining and original' C.L. Taylor'More heart-warming than blood-chilling' Sunday Express'Ellis's writing flows beautifully' Yorkshire Magazine'Elegant, witty and compulsively readable - I think the Brontë sisters would have been delighted' Rosie Walsh'A breath-taking concept . . . Fun, charming and intriguing' Araminta Hall'A delight' Wall Street JournalTrade ReviewPraise for the Brontë Mysteries:-Evocative and utterly enchanting * Sarah Hilary *Bella Ellis is a very special talent * Angela Clarke *Brilliantly entertaining and original * C.L. Taylor *More heart-warming than blood-chilling * Sunday Express *Ellis's writing flows beautifully * Yorkshire Magazine *Elegant, witty and compulsively readable - I think the Brontë sisters would have been delighted * Rosie Walsh *A breath-taking concept . . . Fun, charming and intriguing * Araminta Hall *A delight * Wall Street Journal *The Red Monarch is a superb mystery that kept me enthralled until the final page. * Crime Review *

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Book Synopsis'My Sweet Girl is like nothing else I've read. Set in San Francisco and Sri Lanka, this is a story about friendship, lies, and guilt. A stunning and original must-read' Samantha Downing, Sunday Times bestselling author of My Lovely WifeA girl in a new country.A dark secret left behind.A dead body which might tell all.Ever since she was adopted from an orphanage in Sri Lanka, Paloma has led a privileged Californian life: the best schools, a generous allowance and parents so perfect that Paloma fears she'll never live up to them.Now at thirty, Paloma has managed to disappoint her parents so thoroughly that their relationship will never recover. Unemployed and friendless, the only person still talking to her is Arun - the Indian man subletting her spare room. That is until Arun discovers Paloma's darkest secret, one that could jeopardize her fragile place in this country, and the next day is found face down in a pool of blood.On finding Arun's body Paloma flees her apartment. But by the time the police arrive, there's no body to be found or signs of struggle - and no evidence that Arun ever even existed in the first place.The police may be quick to dismiss everything, but Paloma knows what she saw. Is this tangled up in her childhood in Sri Lanka and the desperate actions she took to leave so many years ago? And did Paloma's secret die with Arun or is she now in greater danger than ever before?Trade ReviewMy Sweet Girl is like nothing else I've read. Set in San Francisco and Sri Lanka, this is a story about friendship, lies, and guilt. A stunning and original must-read * Samantha Downing, Sunday Times bestselling author of My Lovely Wife *This breathtaking debut somehow manages to be terrifying and heartbreaking at the same time. Astonishingly crafted and constantly surprising, the talented Jayatissa lures us into the story with confident hands, and then yanks the rug right out from under us. Ridiculously good. Crazy good. Scary good. This is a big big book * Hank Phillippi Ryan, internationally bestselling author of THE FIRST TO LIE and HER PERFECT LIFE *My Sweet Girl starts with a bang and doesn't let up. Haunted by her past, hunted in her present, Paloma must find her life in America, or lose it forever. A richly layered, firecracker of a thriller * Eliza Jane Brazier, author of If I Disappear *MY SWEET GIRL is equal parts witty, chilling, and hypnotic, and it includes some of the creepiest lines and images I've ever read. By expertly pulling the strings of this riveting story, Amanda Jayatissa will have you thinking you know the answers to the book's layers of mysteries-until she upends every expectation with a series of shocking reveals. * Megan Collins, author of The Winter Sister and Behind the Red Door *A delicious, twisty, fast-paced thriller with the perfect hint of ghost story, MY SWEET GIRL is sheer reading pleasure * Michele Campbell, internationally bestselling author of It's Always the Husband *Dark, compelling and utterly original, My Sweet Girl heralds a fresh, new voice in psychological suspense * Riley Sager, New York Times bestselling author of Home Before Dark *

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Book SynopsisWhen Amaya is invited to Kaavi's over-the-top wedding in Sri Lanka, Amaya is surprised and a little hurt to hear from her former best-friend after so many years of radio silence. But when Amaya learns that the groom is her very own ex-boyfriend, she is consumed by a single thought: she must stop the wedding from happening, no matter the cost.But Amaya might not be the only one with a plan to keep the bride from getting her happily ever after. When Kaavi goes missing and is presumed dead, the evidence points towards Amaya.Caught between excessive Sri Lankan wedding celebrations, old wounds and dark secrets, will Amaya be able to prove she's being framed for a murder she's almost positive she didn't commit?

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Book SynopsisThe SAS are used to deaths during combat - it goes with the turf. But when one of their own is said to have committed suicide in Thailand, red flags are raised. Pete Green wasn't the sort of soldier who would ever take his own life - and no one is more sure of that than his twin brother, Davie. Davie is determined to fly to the Land Of Smiles to find out what really happened to his twin brother. But if he is going to find out the truth he'll need help - the sort of help only SAS Sergeant Matt Standing can provide. But soon after they arrive they come under attack, leaving Standing to investigate on his own. There are clearly people who want to shut down all enquiries and Standing knows he will have to use all his SAS jungle skills to survive. This will be the toughest of assignments but nothing will come between him and the truth ...Trade ReviewPraise for Stephen Leather -Stephen Leather writes really exciting action thrillers. It's like being there yourself -- Chris Ryan, author of Zero 22The fast-paced action scenes are expertly choreographed; the description of settings - from the luxurious bars where Ankara's gangsters gather, to Dubai's glittering skyscrapers - is brisk and richly detailed. Leather knows the inner workings of the security services. But beyond the enthralling storyline he also asks some tough questions about contemporary Britain - without preaching * Financial Times *

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Book Synopsis'A high quality, sharply written thriller whose motley cast of deviants and misfits delivers some breathtaking twists on the way to a bleak but very satisfying conclusion. This is the reality of motherhood - red in tooth and claw' Sarah J Naughton, bestselling author of The Festival'An achingly raw, emotional story that was beautifully written. From the heartbreaking beginning to the shocking conclusion, it was a journey so powerful that it'll stay with me for a long time to come' Alice Hunter, bestselling author of The Serial Killer's Wife'Raw, powerful, beautiful - devastatingly good' TM Logan, bestselling author of The Holiday'Beautiful and harrowing and everything in between' Chris Whitaker, award-winning author of We Begin at the EndSometimes it's better not to ask questions. Sometimes it's better not to know.Eve Taggert's life has been spent steadily climbing away from her roots. Her mother, a hard and cruel woman who dragged her up in a rundown trailer park, was not who she wanted to be to her own daughter, Junie.But 12-year old Junie is now dead. Found next to the body of her best friend in the park of their small, broken town. Eve has nothing left but who she used to be.Despite the corrupt police force that patrol her dirt-poor town deep in the Missouri Ozarks, Eve is going to find what happened to her daughter. Even if it means using her own mother's cruel brand of strength to unearth secrets that don't want to be discovered and face truths it might be better not to know.Everyone is a suspect.Everyone has something to hide.And someone will answer for her daughter's murder.From the bestselling author of The Roanoke Girls, The Familiar Dark is a spellbinding story about the bonds of family as well as a story about how even the darkest and most terrifying of places can provide the comfort of home. The Familiar Dark will blow you away.PRAISE FOR THE FAMILIAR DARK'Dark and beautifully written. Spellbinding' Catherine Steadman, bestselling author of Something in the Water'Absolutely bloody brilliant. It's so well-written I felt like I was living her pain' Fiona Cummins, award-winning author of The Neighbour'Dark, moving, intriguing. Truly inspiring' Susan Lewis, bestselling author of One Minute Later'Powerful, gripping, heart-stopping' Laura McHugh, award-winning author of The Wolf Wants In'From its gripping beginning to its sobering finale, Amy Engel's The Familiar Dark never fails to enthral with surprising twists' Daily Mail'This is fierce and brilliant' The ObserverTrade ReviewA dark and beautifully written thriller with a haunting ending that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Engel's ability to conjure the harsh beauty of the Ozarks is spellbinding. An emotional & powerful read -- Catherine Steadman, bestselling author of * Something in the Water *Absolutely bloody brilliant. A down-at-heel mother burns with a need to exact her own brand of justice after the murder of her 12-year-old daughter. It's so well-written I felt like I was living her pain. Very highly recommended. -- Fiona Cummins, bestselling author of * The Neighbour *I was completely enthralled from start to finish. Very dark, moving, intriguing and such compelling characters. What a fantastic writer Amy is. Truly inspiring; a real talent at work and I hope this book receives all the success it deserves -- Susan Lewis, bestselling author of * One Minute Later *I'm such a HUGE Roanoke fan so my hopes were sky high and it delivered in every possible way. As visceral as it is gripping, the story packs the kind of haunting gut-punch that Amy is so good at. It's just beautiful and harrowing and everything in between. * Chris Whitaker, award winning author of All The Wicked Girls *The Familiar Dark is full of very bad people who occasionally do the right thing and seemingly good people who hide their own demons, every nuance of human nature is here wrapped up in a hugely addictive piece of storytelling. The end, when it comes, is extraordinarily horrific in its reality and leaves you melancholy and full of feeling. This was brilliant. All the way. Don't miss it in 2020. * Liz Loves Books *A harrowing thriller . . . This rural noir stakes Engel's claim to that dystopian terrain somewhere between Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects and Daniel Woodrell's Winter's Bone * Publishers Weekly *This is fierce and brilliant * The Observer *From its gripping beginning to its sobering finale, Amy Engel's The Familiar Dark never fails to enthral with surprising twists . . . a perceptive story about women surviving against odds, a mother´s unconditional love, as well as grief, poverty and classism . . . Engel´s characters would have much in common with those in Gillian Flynn´s Sharp Objects * Daily Mail *Raw, powerful, beautiful - devastatingly good * TM Logan, bestselling author of The Holiday *Powerful, gripping, heart-stopping * Laura McHugh, award-winning author of The Wolf Wants In *This rural noir is full of twists and turns . . . Gripping and hard to put down * Hello Magazine *A story about grief, pretence and family, written by a former criminal defence lawyer, it tugs at the heartstrings with its raw emotional truth * Daily Mail *icily heartbreaking * The Metro *Engel's prose is sharp and often brutal, and result is a seriously impressive thriller * Spectator *I enjoyed it so much. A high quality, sharply written thriller whose motley cast of deviants and misfits delivers some breathtaking twists on the way to a bleak but very satisfying conclusion. This is the reality of motherhood - red in tooth and claw. -- Sarah J Naughton, bestselling author of * The Festival *An achingly raw, emotional story that was beautifully written. From the heartbreaking beginning to the shocking conclusion, it was a journey so powerful that it'll stay with me for a long time to come -- Alice Hunter, author of * The Serial Killer's Wife *

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Book Synopsis'Taut and spine-tingling, I Know I Saw Her journeys through the apparent normality of suburban lives to expose the hidden terrors behind closed doors - a riveting read.' LAURA ELLIOT, BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF GUILTY Parnell Park is an ordinary suburban street. Alice from number 25 has a quiet life but she craves more. So she watches the street's inhabitants -- taking a special interest in Kevin and Kim, the beautiful, charming couple from across the road -- wondering what goes on behind closed doors.One day, on a visit to London, Alice sees Kim on a passing train. But when she later mentions this to Kevin, he tells her she has made a mistake, insisting that his wife is on holiday in the West of Ireland.But Alice knows what she saw. So who is lying? Kevin, or his wife?Alice feels compelled to investigate, and her concern for Kim quickly intensifies. And as she enters a high-stakes game with shadowy rules and hidden dangers, Alice is soon to find out that the thing you crave can be the most dangerous thing of all.Set over the course of a sultry summer, I Know I Saw Her is a masterfully told suspense novel about desire, appearances and deception, as compelling as it is creepy, full of unexpected turns.

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Book SynopsisCaroline has a good life - a job she likes, a daughter she'd do anything for. In the midst of the Christmas rush, covering events and parties, the local journalist is looking forward to the holidays and having some quality time with the ones she loves. But Caroline's good life is not her only life. When, out of the blue, she spots a frighteningly familiar figure in the crowd - a man she hasn't laid eyes on in more than twenty years - she is jolted shockingly back to a secret past she'd hoped she'd put behind her forever. As Christmas nudges closer and alarming events unfold, she feels him closing in on her. Caroline must come up with a plan to keep this man away from her family. But just how far will one woman go to protect a good life? And just how far will one man go to destroy it?Trade ReviewA cat and mouse psychological thriller for your festive reading list * Sunday Independent *An absorbing page-turner * Sheila O’Flanagan *

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Book Synopsis''Addictive and twisty... once you start reading you won''t want to stop'' Reader review ?????When Tess hears Lydia Green is moving back to the village, she is full of excitement.As teenagers, Tess and Lydia were inseparable. Until the end of that last summer when Lydia suddenly moved away.With the recent loss of her husband and two small children to care for, Tess could really use the support of her old best friend. It feels like a bright spot of light in such a difficult time. Like fate has brought Lydia back to her.But when Tess sees Lydia for the first time in decades, in front of all the other mums at Saturday sport, Lydia pretends not to know her.Tess can''t believe Lydia would lie to her face in front of the whole village, or that she seems to want nothing to do with her.Is Lydia playing some kind of twisted game? Or did Tess not really know her best friend as well as she once thought...Don

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Book Synopsis'For a totally exhilarating romp through Ancient Rome, Lindsey Davis' latest Flavia Alba novel won't be beaten and offers an immersive experience of a vibrant world full of real, recognisable characters' Mike Ripley, ShotsmagDon't go to the Grove . . .Julius Caesar left his gardens to the citizens of Rome, a peaceful sanctuary across the Tiber. Now the gardens and their sacred grove are dangerous haunts, especially for women alone.'Don't go to the Grove,' people mutter, but when her husband has to leave Rome, it falls to Albia to supervise his building project in an old grotto. Why has someone buried tattered scrolls by obscure philosophers - and does it involve a worse crime than terrible writing?Soon that puzzle is overtaken. A woman disappears from her husband's birthday party; she meets a dire fate, then Albia learns that on the same night, two louche slaves given to her family by the brooding Emperor Domitian also vanished in the gardens. Apparently, it is well known that a killer lurks there.The vigiles have failed to investigate properly for decades and this won't improve when the sinister agent Karus arrives. Albia must co-operate, in order to give the many victims justice and find answers for grieving relatives. But can she herself remain safe? And, after others have failed, can she at last identify the predator who has made the Grove his killing ground?Praise for Lindsey Davis and the Flavia Albia series'Lindsey Davis has seen off all her competitors to become the unassailable market leader in the 'crime in Ancient Rome' genre . . . Davis's squalid, vibrant Rome is as pleasurable as ever' - Guardian'Davis's prose is a lively joy, and Flavia's Rome is sinister and gloriously real' - The Times on Sunday'For fans of crime fiction set in the ancient world, this one is not to be missed' - Booklist'Davis's books crackle with wit and knowledge . . . She has the happy knack of making the reader feel entirely immersed in Rome' - The TimesTrade ReviewPraise for The Grove of the Caesars * : *For a totally exhilarating romp through Ancient Rome, Lindsey Davis' latest Flavia Alba novel won't be beaten and offers an immersive experience of a vibrant world full of real, recognisable characters * Mike Ripley, Shotsmag *Praise for Lindsey Davis and the Flavia Albia series * : *For fans of crime fiction set in the ancient world, this one is not to be missed * Booklist *Lindsey Davis has seen off all her competitors to become the unassailable market leader in the 'crime in Ancient Rome' genre . . . Davis's squalid, vibrant Rome is as pleasurable as ever * Guardian *Davis's books crackle with wit and knowledge. She has the happy knack of making the reader feel entirely immersed in Rome * The Times *This excellent Roman mystery, enriched by Davis's characteristic wit and thorough understanding of the period, takes a darker turn as Flavia delves into Rome's poorest streets, rife with prostitution, exploitation, thuggery and murder * Sunday Express, S Magazine *Davis's prose is a lively joy, and Flavia's Rome is sinister and gloriously real * The Times on Saturday *Praise for Lindsey Davis and the Flavia Albia series * : *For fans of crime fiction set in the ancient world, this one is not to be missed * Booklist *Lindsey Davis has seen off all her competitors to become the unassailable market leader in the 'crime in Ancient Rome' genre . . . Davis's squalid, vibrant Rome is as pleasurable as ever * Guardian *Davis's books crackle with wit and knowledge. She has the happy knack of making the reader feel entirely immersed in Rome * The Times *This excellent Roman mystery, enriched by Davis's characteristic wit and thorough understanding of the period, takes a darker turn as Flavia delves into Rome's poorest streets, rife with prostitution, exploitation, thuggery and murder * Sunday Express, S Magazine *Davis's prose is a lively joy, and Flavia's Rome is sinister and gloriously real * The Times on Saturday *

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Book Synopsis NO PHONESNO OUTSIDERSNO ESCAPE'An exciting and compelling new voice, Anna Downes' The Safe Place is a very accomplished debut' B.A. Paris, Sunday Times bestselling author of The DilemmaRated 4.5 * on NetGalley, this international bestseller is perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Lesley Kara and Ruth WareA BEAUTIFUL HOME MIGHT HIDE DANGEROUS SECRETSEmily Proudman has been offered the chance of a lifetime - leave her messy London life, move to a beautiful estate in France and help her boss' wife take care of their daughter, Aurelia. It seems like the perfect opportunity to start again.But once there, Emily soon starts to suspect that her charismatic new employers aren't telling her the whole truth. That there are even dangerous secrets hidden beneath the glamourous facade. Rather than throwing herself headlong into this oasis of wine-soaked days by the pool, Emily can't help but ask questions. Why have the family been moved to this isolated house so far from home? Why does Aurelia refuse to speak or be touched? Why are there whispers in the night? The only problem is, the more Emily knows, the less chance there is she will ever be able to leave . . .PRAISE FOR THE SAFE PLACE'Tense and atmospheric with the seemingly idyllic, yet eerie, setting. A truly gripping read'Karen Hamilton, bestselling author of The Perfect Girlfriend'An outstanding debut. The Safe Place is destined to be a book club favourite'Chris Hammer, award-winning author of Scrublands'It's such a rare thing - a claustrophobic, addictive thriller that lets you actually feel for all of the characters involved'Gytha Lodge, bestselling author of She Lies in Wait'Compellingly disturbing. Anna Downes is a powerful story writer who will lull you into a false sense of security - and then pounce. An author to be watched'Jane Corry, bestselling author of My Husband's Wife 'A brilliantly atmospheric novel that keeps you equally gripped and unsettled from page one. Starkly original and with an alarmingly plausible premise, this is destined to be a bestseller'J.P. Pomare, bestselling author of Call Me Evie'A dark and wonderful debut that lulls you in with beautiful prose and complex, believable characters, then beats you over the head with a killer plot and a thrilling climax. Everyone will be talking about this book!'Christian White, bestselling author of The Nowhere ChildTrade ReviewThe tension ratchets up and up in this beautifully paced thriller - an outstanding debut which is atmospheric and populated by complex and sympathetic characters. You'll be thinking about them long after you've finished reading. The Safe Place is destined to be a book club favourite, as readers debate the morality and motivation driving the characters and plot * Chris Hammer, award-winning author of Scrublands *It's such a rare thing - a claustrophobic, addictive thriller that lets you actually feel for all of the characters involved. Anna has such skill in combining the heart-in-mouth feeling that everything is building to a disaster with genuine emotion * Gytha Lodge, bestselling author of, She Lies in Wait *A brilliantly atmospheric novel that keeps you equally gripped and unsettled from page one. Starkly original and with an alarmingly plausible premise, this is destined to be a bestseller * Call Me Evie *The Safe Place is a dark and wonderful debut that lulls you in with beautiful prose and complex, believable characters, then beats you over the head with a killer plot and a thrilling climax. It's the kind of book you race through as quickly as you can so you can start it again. Everyone will be talking about this book! * Christian White, author of The Nowhere Child and The Wife and the Widow *The Safe Place is compellingly disturbing. Anna Downes is a powerful story writer who will lull you into a false sense of security - and then pounce. An author to be watched * Jane Corry, The Sunday Times bestselling author of My Husband’s Wife and I Made a Mistake *I loved THE SAFE PLACE... it was tense and atmospheric with the seemingly idyllic yet eerie setting. A truly gripping read * Karen Hamilton, author of the Sunday Times bestseller The Perfect Girlfriend *An exciting and compelling new voice, Anna Downes' The Safe Place is a very accomplished debut * B.A. Paris *I was completely captivated, which, let me tell you, is rare these days. I loved the characters, how clearly they were painted, their quirks, their flaws and strengths, and I blazed through the book. Richly evocative with a dark, atmospheric heart, THE SAFE PLACE is seductive, irresistible and suspenseful. I was completely gripped from the first page to the pulse-pounding end. I recommend reading THE SAFE PLACE poolside with a strawberry margarita in hand. It's the perfect summer suspense. Five stars from me * Christina McDonald, author of The Night Olivia Fell *As thrilling and gripping as everyone is saying. Can't wait to see this making a splash in the book world on its release. Put this on your #mustread list now * Kate Mildenhall, author of The Mother Fault *A gripping, brilliantly written thriller * The Sun *The Safe Place by Anna Downes is truly a one-sitting read for me as once I'd started it, I honestly couldn't stop. Anna's writing is so immersive that I was with her protagonist Emily every step of the way until the very end, when I realized I'd forgotten to breathe! A mesmerizing debut * Sandie Jones, author of The New York Times bestseller The Other Woman *When something seems too good to be true, it probably is. A captivating narration by author Anna Downes adds that extra spark to her neo-gothic novel . . . Downes knows her characters and delivers them with professional expertise, original plotting, and a masterful performance. She creates an uneasy atmosphere from the first, adding layers of uncertainty that cause Emily (and the listener) to question reality. Chilling. Disturbing. A nail-biter to the end. * Audiofile Magazine *A great read and one that should be made in one sitting * WW Magazine *

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Book SynopsisA HOUSE FULL OF DEADLY SECRETS. A MOTHER WHO'LL RISK EVERYTHING TO BRING THEM TO LIGHT.'This tense and beautifully written thriller gripped me from the first page and didn't let go. Intriguing and eerie, climaxing in an edge-of-the-seat finale that had me furiously turning the pages. A must read!' Sarah Pearse, bestselling author of THE SANATORIUMTHE BONES COME FIRST... When single mother Alex arrives at her new home with her two children, she can finally breathe easy. Pine Ridge, a rural community near the Australian coast, is beautiful, peaceful and most importantly, far away from the trauma she left behind. NEXT, A DOLL... Then unexplained boxes start arriving at the house, and Alex's teenage son begins to retreat into himself more than ever. As rumours and legends swirl through the community, Alex realises that Pine Ridge is guarding long-held secrets of its own. AND THEN THE BLOOD. Something is lurking in the shadows, and Alex and her family are in grave danger. She must protect her children from the darkness at all costs - before it engulfs them whole... A tense and haunting tale of one mother's fight for her family, in a place where no one can hear you scream. Authors love ANNA DOWNES'It's such a rare thing - a claustrophobic, addictive thriller that lets you actually feel for all of the characters involved' Gytha Lodge, bestselling author of She Lies in Wait on The Safe Place'A brilliantly atmospheric novel that keeps you equally gripped and unsettled from page one. Starkly original and with an alarmingly plausible premise, this is destined to be a bestseller' J.P. Pomare, bestselling author of In the Clearing on The Safe Place'A dark and wonderful debut that lulls you in with beautiful prose and complex, believable characters, then beats you over the head with a killer plot and a thrilling climax' Christian White, author of The Nowhere Child on The Safe Place Trade ReviewPraise for THE SAFE PLACE * : *It's such a rare thing - a claustrophobic, addictive thriller that lets you actually feel for all of the characters involved. Anna has such skill in combining the heart-in-mouth feeling that everything is building to a disaster with genuine emotion * Gytha Lodge, bestselling author of, She Lies in Wait *A brilliantly atmospheric novel that keeps you equally gripped and unsettled from page one. Starkly original and with an alarmingly plausible premise, this is destined to be a bestseller * J.P. Pomare, bestselling author of, Call Me Evie *The Safe Place is a dark and wonderful debut that lulls you in with beautiful prose and complex, believable characters, then beats you over the head with a killer plot and a thrilling climax. It's the kind of book you race through as quickly as you can so you can start it again. Everyone will be talking about this book! * Christian White, author of The Nowhere Child and The Wife and the Widow *

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Book Synopsis'The undisputed champion of South African crime' - Wilbur SmithA Financial Times Book of the Year 2022One last chance. Almost fired for insubordination, detectives Benny Griessel and Vaughn Cupido find themselves demoted, exiled from the elite Hawks unit and dispatched to the leafy streets of Stellenbosch. Working a missing persons report on student Callie de Bruin is not the level of work they are used to, but it's all they get. And soon, it takes a dangerous, deeply disturbing turn.One last chance. Stellenbosch is beautiful, but its economy has been ruined by one man. Jasper Boonstra and his gigantic corporate fraud have crashed the local property market, just when estate agent Sandra Steenberg desperately needs a big sale. Bringing up twins and supporting her academic husband, she is facing disaster. Then she gets a call. From Jasper Boonstra, fraudster, sexual predator and owner of a superb property worth millions, even now.For Sandra, the stakes are high and about to get way higher. For Benny Griessel, clinging to sobriety and the relationship that saved his life, the truth about Callie can only lead to more trouble.Taut with intrigue, murder and suspense, exploding with action and excitement, The Dark Flood is a masterpiece from the author of Trackers and The Last Hunt.'One of the best crime writers on the planet' - Daily MailTrade ReviewMany writers treat character and context as window-dressing for their plots. Meyer roots his novels in them. This makes Griessel's fate important to the reader and gives Meyer's writing the heft of Table Mountain, as well as its ability to take your breath away * The Times, Thriller of the Month *Deon Meyer's Benny Griessel novels, featuring a detective in an elite crime squad in Cape Town, are a joy to read... Meyer has become an outstanding chronicler of South Africa's corruption * The Sunday Times *Is Deon Meyer the most accomplished South African crime novelist in the history of the genre? The Dark Flood is further evidence of that assertion...every word earns its place, and there's no stinting on the usual nuanced critique of South African politics * Financial Times *In a thriller packed with intrigue and biting social commentary, Meyer proves he is South Africa's finest crime writer * Sunday Express *Stellar ... [a] wholly satisfying conclusion. This is the best work yet from this gifted author * Publishers Weekly, Starred Review *Meyer handles the complicated plot with panache * Literary Review *A fast-moving South African police procedural . . . The plotlines are tightly knitted together, and the story ends with a nifty twist. A well-crafted blend of suspense, culture, and humour. Meyer is terrific * Kirkus, Starred Review *A slick thriller full of acid commentary on corruption in modern SA * Sun *Achieves a fine mix of suspense, action, political intrigue and personal revelation * Wall Street Journal *Fans of Jo Nesbø's similarly character-driven Harry Hole mysteries will find lots to like here * BookPage *Meyer brings readers another tense thriller with meticulous plotting, delving into corruption in South Africa's power structures, police abuses, and land schemes . . . Meyer is one of today's most skilled crime craftsmen * Crime Reads *Absorbing procedural details lead to an explosive confrontation with a ruthless street gang and a police-corruption scheme that links SAPS to the country's devastating political scandals. It's a grim period for South Africa, but Griessel and Caputo remain loyal to justice and to each other. A gritty but surprisingly hopeful instalment in Meyer's immensely popular series * Booklist *Tense and compelling, this is classic Meyer -- Sarah Ward, author of the DC Childs seriesPRAISE FOR DEON MEYER:Up there with the best in the world * The Times *The undisputed champion of South African crime * Wilbur Smith *Meyer's humane and engaging characters are indeed among "the best of the best" * Wall Street Journal *A powerful exploration of humanity at its best and worst . . . simply stunning * Daily Express *Great stuff * Stephen King *One of the best crime writers on the planet * Daily Mail *Meyer is the Monarch of South African crime novelists. * Financial Times *

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Book Synopsis*** THE NEW YORK TIMES NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER ***'Enthralling ... With beautifully drawn characters, this is crime writing of the highest order' DAILY MAIL'A satisfying and multi-layered mystery, in Penny's excellent series' IRISH INDEPENDENT'Louise Penny is on peak form ... a grown-up, timely thriller that considers the nature of cowardice ... merges the personal and professional life of her detective with equal skill and wit' THE TIMES'A great sense of place and characterisation ... very much a book that will make you think' SHOTSWhen Chief Inspector Armand Gamache is asked to provide crowd control at a statistics lecture given at the Université de l'Estrie in Quebec, he is dubious. Why ask the head of homicide to provide security for what sounds like a minor, even mundane lecture? But dangerous ideas about who deserves to live in order for society to thrive are rapidly gaining popularity, fuelled by the research of the eminent Professor Abigail Robinson. Yet for every person seduced by her theories there is another who is horrified by them. When a murder is committed days after the lecture, it's clear that within crowds can lie madness. To uncover the truth, Gamache must put his own feelings about the divisive Professor to one side. But with her ideas gaining ground, the line separating good and evil, right and wrong, is quickly blurring - especially when the case leads unexpectedly close to home ...PRAISE FOR LOUISE PENNY AND THE INSPECTOR GAMACHE SERIES:'Louise Penny is one of the greatest crime writers of our times' DENISE MINA 'She makes most of her competitors seem like wannabes' THE TIMES'Gamache has become to Canada what Hercule Poirot is to Belgium' THE NEW YORK TIMES'Louise Penny twists and turns the plot expertly tripping the reader up just at the moment you think you might have solved the mystery' DAILY EXPRESS'The series is deep and grand and altogether extraordinary . . . Miraculous' WASHINGTON POST'No one does atmospheric quite like Louise Penny.' ELLY GRIFFITHS'An absolute joy' IRISH TIMESTrade ReviewPenny is on peak form... The Madness of Crowds is a grown-up, timely thriller that considers the nature of cowardice - "there's no peace without courage" - and how to find and defend "that spot between freedom and safety * The Times *The Madness of Crowds is very much a book that will make you think. * SHOTS *A satisfying and multi-layered mystery, the 17th in Penny's excellent series. * Irish Independent *This is a book of great ideas and wonderful characters * On Magazine *Louise Penny is one of the greatest crime writers of our times -- Denise MinaShe makes most of her competitors seem like wannabes * The Times *Gamache has become to Canada what Hercule Poirot is to Belgium * New York Times *No one does atmospheric quite like Louise Penny . . . a fantastic series -- Elly GriffithsLouise Penny's writing is intricate, beautiful and compelling. She is an original voice, a distillation of both PD James and Barbara Vine at their peaks and a worthy successor to both -- Peter JamesA cracking storyteller, who can create fascinating characters, a twisty plot and wonderful surprise endings -- Ann CleevesIt's always a treat to spend a few days with Armand Gamache -- James Patterson[An] atmospheric, distinctive series -- Kate MossePenny's elegant style is deeply satisfying, while Gamache is contemplative even when under pressure, and remains a man you want to spend time with * Metro *Penny is an absolute joy * Irish Times *Enthralling...crime writing of the highest order * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisAssassin. Immortal. Spy.From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights comes the first book in a captivating new duology following an ill-matched pair of spies posing as a married couple to investigate a series of brutal murders in 1930s Shanghai. It's 1931 in Shanghai, and the stage is set for a new decade of intrigue. Four years ago, Rosalind Lang was brought back from the brink of death, but the strange experiment that saved her also stopped her from sleeping and aging - and allows her to heal from any wound. In short, Rosalind cannot die. Now, desperate for redemption for her traitorous past, she uses her abilities as an assassin for her country. Code name: Fortune. But when the Japanese Imperial Army begins its invasion march, Rosalind's mission pivots. A series of murders is causing unrest in Shanghai, and the Japanese are under suspicion. Rosalind's new orders are to infiltrate foreign society and identify the culprits behind the terror plot before more of her people are killed. To reduce suspicion, she must pose as the wife of another Nationalist spy, Orion Hong. Although Rosalind finds Orion's cavalier attitude and playboy demeanour infuriating, she is willing to work with him for the greater good. But Orion has an agenda of his own, and Rosalind has secrets that she wants to keep buried. As they both attempt to unravel the conspiracy, the two spies soon find that there are deeper and more horrifying layers to this mystery than they ever imagined.PRAISE FOR CHLOE GONG'An electrifying, swashbuckling tale of intrigue and assassins, romance and betrayal' CASSANDRA CLARE'Amazing, show-stopping, spectacular' XIRAN JAY ZHAO'A dark delight' RENEE AHDIEH'Foul Lady Fortune had my heart pounding from the first chapter' ELIZABETH LIM'Chloe Gong has outdone herself' JOAN HETrade ReviewRaw, thrilling and dizzyingly romantic, Foul Lady Fortune is a marvel * Sangu Mandanna, author of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches *Foul Lady Fortune is a rich and thrilling web of covert identities and competing ideologies, with a devastating slow-burn romance at its core. Gong has crafted an absolutely gripping and wonderfully confident start to a new series * Sunya Mara, author of The Darkening *An absolute fireball of a book. This is an impeccably slick murder mystery entangled in the backstabbing, claustrophobic world of spies and political machinations ... leaves you scheming, theorising and obsessing * The Nerd Daily *In the usual style of conspiracy thrillers, it contains rather a lot to keep up with: a large cast of characters, some with more than one name, some of them working for more than one side. But Chloe Gong unfolds it all with care ... over time, the reader becomes properly invested in her cast of young agents with messy lives * SFX *Filled with secrets, conspiracy and romance, this evocative slice of historical fiction from the author of These Violent Delights sees a young assassin fight for the greater good in 1930s Shanghai * Waterstones *I love a period piece and I love a little bit of fantasy in my books. Chloe Gong has been able to mix the two in her novels that are set in early 1900s Shanghai * Stellar.ie *When a story is this pacey and captivating, with such beautifully written characters, why wouldn't you want to read every book that shapes the world they exist in? * Culturefly *Equal parts intoxicating and dazzling, Gong's newest duology is enchanting and unmissable. Each page is a finely honed blade that goes straight to the heart * Roshani Chokshi, New York Times bestselling author of The Gilded Wolves *

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Book Synopsis'A propulsive mystery that feels both fresh and assured' Catherine Ryan Howard'A clever twisty tale that feels completely authentic, Catherine Kirwan is onto another winner' Jane Casey'Atmospheric and intriguing with a brilliantly relatable heroine and an explosive, gripping conclusion, nothing in Cruel Deeds is quite as it seems.' Sam Blake'Thrilling ... a page turning read' Patricia GibneyA SUCCESSFUL LAWYER IS FOUND MURDERED - WHAT WAS SHE HIDING?Finn Fitzpatrick and Mandy Breslin work at the same law firm but move in very different circles. Mandy is a member of the privileged senior partners' clique. Finn keeps to herself.When Mandy's body is found at an abandoned house, everyone at the firm is left reeling - but the partners move fast. If Mandy was involved in something that got her killed, they want to be the first to know.As Finn investigates Mandy's work, she finds herself drawn deeper into her dead colleague's life, and soon discovers that Mandy wasn't the only one with secrets. Will uncovering this web of lies put Finn at risk too? And who can she turn to when she can't trust anyone?'Pacy, twisty and ingeniously plotted ... a real page-turner' T.M. Logan'Money and greed, office gossip and secret affairs; twisty and pacy' Andrea Mara'Pacy, gripping and atmospheric ... a cracking read!' Andrea CarterTrade ReviewCruel Deeds is a pacy novel full off skulduggery and professional misconduct. Solicitors are privy to all kinds of secrets and, like Andrea Carter's Inishowen Mysteries, this excellent series fully exploits that * Irish Times *

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Book SynopsisINSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER*A Today Show #ReadWithJenna Book Club Pick* *An Indie Next Great Read*'[A] vivid depiction of a family's heartbreak, its rending and rebuilding.' - Clare Lombardo, New York Times Book Review 'Spanning generations and continents, from pre-WWII Germany to current day midwestern America, Send For Me is a richly imagined testament to the ties that bind.' Whitney ScharerGermany 1930s. Annelise is a dreamer: imagining her future while working at her parents' popular bakery in Feldenheim, Germany, anticipating all the delicious possibilities yet to come. There are rumours that anti-Jewish sentiment is on the rise, but Annelise and her parents can't quite believe that it will affect them; they're hardly religious at all. But as Annelise falls in love, marries, and gives birth to her daughter Ruthie, the dangers grow closer: a brick thrown through her window; a childhood friend who cuts ties with her; customers refusing to patronise the bakery. Luckily Annelise and her husband are given the chance to leave for America, but they must go without her parents, whose future and safety are uncertain.Two generations later, in a small Midwestern city, Ruthie's daughter and Annelise's granddaughter, Clare, is a young woman newly in love. But when she stumbles upon her grandmother's letters from Germany, she sees the history of her family's sacrifices in a new light, and suddenly she's faced with an impossible choice: the past, or her future. A novel of dazzling emotional richness that is based on letters from Lauren Fox's own family, Send for Me is an epic and intimate exploration of mothers and daughters, duty and obligation, hope and forgiveness.Trade ReviewAn anthropological excavation... It is haunted throughout by the endlessly fascinating question of inheritance. How much of our stories - and which parts - truly belong to us?... The book is a real achievement - beautifully written, deeply felt, tender and thoughtful... The storytelling is patient, generous... The major accomplishment of Send for Me [is] its vivid depiction of a family's heartbreak, its rending and rebuilding. * Clare Lombardo, New York Times Book Review *A sense of foreboding shadows this bittersweet intergenerational tale of love and trauma... Subtle, striking, and punctuated by snippets of family letters.. Fox has imbued this deeply personal, ultimately hopeful novel, which she explains in an author's note is based on her own family's story, with emotion, empathy, and an essential understanding of the complicated bonds between generations and the importance of reckoning with the past in order to embrace the future. An intimate, insightful, intricately rendered story of intergenerational trauma and love. * Kirkus, starred *Fox deftly moves between generations as she illuminates the ways that choices echo through the lives of those who came after. This thoughtful, character-driven exploration of the unbreakable bonds of motherhood will appeal to fans of Alice Hoffman and Elizabeth Berg. * Booklist *A beautifully told story of intergenerational loves and sorrows. * Jennifer Rosner, author of The Yellow Bird Sings *Imbued with lyrical prose, Send For Me is a beautiful tale of heartbreak and renewal, and of the love and loss we carry with us, generation after generation. * Georgia Hunter, author of We Were The Lucky Ones *A rare and beautiful novel in luminous prose with great economy and precision... Fox seems to say, life is threaded with hope and joy and human connection... I loved this book. * Christina Baker Kline, author of Orphan Train *Spanning generations and continents, from pre-WWII Germany to current day midwestern America, Send For Me is a richly imagined testament to the ties that bind... Lauren Fox's first historical novel is moving, heartfelt and filled with love. * Whitney Scharer, author of Age of Light *Fox satisfyingly brings this story of love and desire full circle, as Clare and Ruth reflect on what it means to be both a mother and a child in the darkest of times. This tender and deeply inspired story will move readers. * Publishers Weekly *

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Book Synopsis'I am waiting for someone to kill me. Tonight would be a good night for it.' Agent Seventeen, the most infamous hitman in the world, has quit. But whoever wants to become Assassin Eighteen must track him down and kill him first. So when a bullet hits the glass inches from his face, he knows who fired it - doesn't he? But the sniper isn't the hardened killer he was expecting. It's Mireille - a mysterious, silent child, abandoned in the woods with instructions to pull the trigger. Reuniting with his spiky lover, Kat, Seventeen must protect Mireille, and discover who sent her to kill him, and why. But the road he must travel is littered with bodies. And the answer, when it comes, will blow apart everything Seventeen thought he knew.Trade ReviewPraise for AGENT SEVENTEEN -AGENT SEVENTEEN reinvents the hitman novel. It's a cinematic rollercoaster, full of authentic emotion and high-octane action. The tension explodes off the pages; John Brownlow is a master of suspense * Jeff Abbott, New York Times bestselling author of TRAITOR'S DANCE *A gripping debut thriller from a British-Canadian screenwriter and it keeps readers on the edge of their seats through a roller-coaster ride of high-octane action that builds to an explosive finale * Sunday Express *A slick, clever, edge-of-the-seat thriller * Crime Review *This is a fresh adrenaline-charged, and snarkily funny spy thriller with an explosive climax * The Peterborough Telegraph *This high-velocity thriller seems destined for the big screen... thanks to British-Canadian screenwriter-turned-novelist John Brownlow's vivid imagery, ultra-detailed action sequences and elaborate plotting. * National Post *Keeps you on the edge of your seat and guessing with every turn of the page. A fantastic and thrilling new entry into the modern-day spy genre * Rawson Marshall Thurber, director of DODGEBALL, CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE, SKYSCRAPER and RED NOTICE *Exquisite writing... the dialogue is pitch perfect... a book club title that is different from the usual - grittier and very powerful * Book Reporter *The book takes off like a rocket . . . Brownlow is an accomplished screenwriter, and it shows * The Financial Times *The pace never falters a single inch in this high octane, breathless thriller. Lean, mean and thoroughly enjoyable * Crime Time *Fresh and entertaining . . . it is no surprise it has been snapped up by Hollywood * Daily Mail *This is probably the most action-packed spy thriller that fans of the genre will read this year, with short busy chapters where conspiracies unfold at the rate of a particularly sharp shooting pistol dispensing bullets * Irish Examiner *Praise for ASSASSIN EIGHTEEN -... the action is breathless and almost every single, short chapter ends with a cliff-hanger, and twists continuously pepper the narrative ... if ever a series is to emulate the James Bond one, Brownlow's ultra-propulsive prose, plots and characters could well be the one * Maxim Jakubowski, Crime Time *ASSASSIN EIGHTEEN is a speeding bullet of a novel. It never lets up and never lets you go once you're in its grip. Highly explosive and bloody fun! * Tim Glister *ASSASSIN EIGHTEEN ... brings a profane wit and some emotional heft to the world of high-end international assassins. ... The sharp self-awareness, persistent humour and vivid characters help this enjoyable, lively novel stand out from the crowd. * Brian Cliff and Elizabeth Mannion for The Irish Times *

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Book SynopsisHER PERFECT TWIN. YOUR NEW OBSESSION.'Sarah Bonner's debut novel made my jaw drop. There are so many twists in this story, I never knew what was coming next. You won't want to miss this one!' Samantha Downing, author of My Lovely Wife'A terrifyingly vivid psychological thriller - paranoid, claustrophobic and captivating' Janice Hallett, bestselling author of The AppealWhen Megan discovers photographs of her estranged identical twin sister on her husband's phone, she wants answers. Leah already has everything Megan has ever wanted. Fame, fortune, freedom to do what she wants. And when Megan confronts Leah, an argument turns to murder. The only way Megan can get away with killing her twin is to become her. But then lockdown hits. How can she continue living two lives? And what happens if someone else knows her secret too? HER PERFECT TWIN IS THE MOST ADDICTIVE, TWISTY THRILLER YOU'LL READ IN 2022. DON'T MISS THIS WILD RIDE OF A NOVEL.'Brilliantly twisty and thoroughly entertaining - an extremely impressive debut' T. M. Logan, bestselling author of The Holiday'Unique, gripping and packed with devious characters, this uber-twisty thriller pulls the rug on the reader so many times!' Allie Reynolds, author of Shiver'A deliciously sticky web of a tale that snared me from the very first page and didn't let me go until the shocking end' C. L. Pattison, author of The Housemate'Intense, sharp, and surprising. Everything I love in a thriller' Jo Jakeman, author of Safe House'A perfect storm of sly revenge and rivalry' LV Matthews, author of The Prank'Twisty, compelling and clever, this is a fabulous debut with a heroine you'll root for' Penny Batchelor, author of Her New Best Friend'I was gripped by this unpredictable rollercoaster of a novel! Full of conniving characters, clever twists and high stakes. It had me constantly wondering what the characters were going to try next and who was going to prevail' Helen Cooper, author of The Downstairs Neighbour'More deliciously twisty than Gone Girl . . . Dark and compelling, Her Perfect Twin is the perfect thriller. Sharp as a knife and so twisty, it hooked me from the very first page' Vikki Patis, author of In The DarkReal readers love Her Perfect Twin:'An outstanding debut from Sarah Bonner. I have never read anything quite like it''Cleverly plotted with great characters . . . A top notch thriller!''This book definitely had me hooked. It's one of those that gets under your skin''A devious, twisty story laced with dark humour, with characters you'll love and love to hate . . . Echoes of Hitchcock and du Maurier, but also more contemporary thrillers like Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train. Brilliant''Absolutely amazing'Trade ReviewA terrifyingly vivid psychological thriller - paranoid, claustrophobic and captivating -- Janice Hallett, author of The AppealSarah Bonner's debut novel made my jaw drop. There are so many twists in this story, I never knew what was coming next. You won't want to miss this one! -- Samantha Downing, author of My Lovely WifeBrilliantly twisty and thoroughly entertaining - an extremely impressive debut -- T. M. Logan, bestselling author of The HolidayIntense, sharp, and surprising. Everything I love in a thriller -- Jo Jakeman, author of Safe HouseA deliciously sticky web of a tale that snared me from the very first page and didn't let me go until the shocking end -- C. L. Pattison, author of The HousemateA twisted tale I could not have loved more -- Natasha Harding * Sun *Sarah Bonner has created a perfect storm of sly revenge and rivalry, in her addictive and disturbing debut Her Perfect Twin -- LV Matthews, author of The PrankBe prepared to stay up all night with this twisty, addictive read. Her Perfect Twin is surprising, compelling, and furiously paced - the perfect can't-put-it-down, edge of your seat thriller. Just when I thought I had it figured out, my jaw would drop all over again -- Laurie Elizabeth Flynn, author of The Girls Are All So Nice HereI was gripped by this unpredictable rollercoaster of a novel! Full of conniving characters, clever twists and high stakes. It had me constantly wondering what the characters were going to try next and who was going to prevail -- Helen Cooper, author of The Downstairs NeighbourMore deliciously twisty than Gone Girl . . . Dark and compelling, Her Perfect Twin is the perfect thriller. Sharp as a knife and so twisty, it hooked me from the very first page -- Vikki Patis, author of In The Dark Identical twins Megan and Leah used to swap places for a laugh but now it's deadly serious. Can Megan fool those closest to her to get away with murder? It was a question that kept me guessing to the final reveal on the very last page of this fast and pacy thriller. Her Perfect Twin is a nail-biting, page-turning debut - Sarah Bonner is one to watch! -- Amy McLellan, author of Remember MeUnique, gripping and packed with devious characters, this uber-twisty thriller pulls the rug on the reader so many times! -- Allie Reynolds, author of ShiverHer publishers acclaim her as an exciting new British voice in psychological thriller fiction - and they're right. My goodness, it thrills * SHOTS magazine *This cleverly plotted story builds up anger, frustration and resentment within the characters, and leaves the reader wondering, what will happen next? -- Zoe West * Woman's Weekly *A wonderfully twisty, and twisted, thriller that'll have you up until the early hours, and with an ending that you will NOT see coming. Brilliant -- S J Watson, author of Before I Go To SleepA perfect thriller, we read this in one sitting * Closer *A dangerous thriller about family secrets, gaslighting, and a deadly sibling rivalry -- Jane Shilling * Daily Mail *Bonner writes with a flair unusual for a debut, and has delivered a satisfying, addictive ride, both twisty and twisted, that left me hungry to see what delights she will cook up for us next -- S J Watson * Perspective Magazine *If you're going into Her Perfect Twin assuming this is going to be standard psychological thriller fare, you've underestimated Bonner from the off. This is a novel of constant twists, turns and delicious backstabbing betrayals. Her Perfect Twin really is a shocking, twisty and suspenseful mind game of a story that revels in blindsiding readers. Just make sure you clear your schedule ahead of time, because once you start reading this, you won't be able to put it down. * Culturefly *A compelling read, surely destined for the screen. Harlan Coben meets Liz Nugent in a thrilling tale of deadly deceit. * Sunday Independent *A jaw-droppingly clever debut * Irish Independent *Just when you think authors have written about every type of murder and covered every storyline, along comes a book that proves you wrong * CrimeSquad *If you fancy a smart twisty thriller, then look no further * Peterborough Telegraph *

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HER PERFECT TWIN. YOUR NEW OBSESSION.'Sarah Bonner's debut novel made my jaw drop. There are so many twists in this story, I never knew what was coming next. You won't want to miss this one!' Samantha Downing, author of My Lovely Wife'A wonderfully twisty, and twisted, thriller that'll have you up until the early hours, and with an ending that you will NOT see coming. Brilliant' S J Watson, author of Before I Go To Sleep'A terrifyingly vivid psychological thriller - paranoid, claustrophobic and captivating' Janice Hallett, bestselling author of The AppealWhen Megan discovers photographs of her estranged identical twin sister on her husband's phone, she wants answers. Leah already has everything Megan has ever wanted. Fame, fortune, freedom to do what she wants. And when Megan confronts Leah, an argument turns to murder. The only way Megan can get away with killing her twin is to become her. But then lockdown hits. How can she continue living two lives? And what happens if someone else knows her secret too? HER PERFECT TWIN IS THE MOST ADDICTIVE, TWISTY THRILLER YOU'LL READ IN 2022. DON'T MISS THIS WILD RIDE OF A NOVEL.'Brilliantly twisty and thoroughly entertaining - an extremely impressive debut' TM Logan, bestselling author of The Holiday 'A deliciously sticky web of a tale that snared me from the very first page and didn't let me go until the shocking end' C. L. Pattison, author of The Housemate'Intense, sharp, and surprising. Everything I love in a thriller' Jo Jakeman, author of Safe House'A perfect storm of sly revenge and rivalry' LV Matthews, author of The Prank'Twisty, compelling and clever, this is a fabulous debut with a heroine you'll root for' Penny Batchelor, author of Her New Best Friend'I was gripped by this unpredictable rollercoaster of a novel! Full of conniving characters, clever twists and high stakes. It had me constantly wondering what the characters were going to try next and who was going to prevail' Helen Cooper, author of The Downstairs Neighbour'More deliciously twisty than Gone Girl . . . Dark and compelling, Her Perfect Twin is the perfect thriller. Sharp as a knife and so twisty, it hooked me from the very first page' Vikki Patis, author of In The DarkReal readers love Her Perfect Twin:'An outstanding debut from Sarah Bonner. I have never read anything quite like it''Cleverly plotted with great characters . . . A top notch thriller!''This book definitely had me hooked. It's one of those that gets under your skin''A devious, twisty story laced with dark humour, with characters you'll love and love to hate . . . Echoes of Hitchcock and du Maurier, but also more contemporary thrillers like Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train. Brilliant''Absolutely amazing'

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Book SynopsisHeartbreaking. Gripping. Terribly captivating.'Read it in one sitting!' ***** Madeleine, Amazon reviewerShe may not remember her name,but her body knows.1940. When a French family is forced to house a German soldier in their spare room, young Noemie finds herself drawn to the enemy living under the family roof. A forbidden romance unfolds with life-changing consequences.1946. In the aftermath of the war, a little girl is found sitting on a bench with no memory of who she is - not even her own name. Justin, a young gendarme, takes her under his wing. He is desperate to unravel the mystery surrounding her sudden appearance.Who is the little girl?And what happened to her family?The truth he discovers is spine-chilling.

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Book Synopsis'Enthralling' - The Sunday Times'Compelling' - The TimesA thrilling story of the secret services, their enemies and the society they operate in, building with unrelenting suspense to a superb climax, The Crocodile Hunter is Gerald Seymour writing at the top of his powers.In the office at MI5 where he works, they call Jonas Merrick 'the eternal flame'. It isn't a compliment. It's because he never goes out. He never goes undercover, never does surveillance, never goes with the teams that kick down the doors or seize the suspects off the street. He commutes into work and sits at his desk and then he goes home.But Jonas has qualities the hot-shots fail to notice: a steely concentration, a ruthless ability to focus and find the enemy hiding in plain sight.Hearing of a British Jihadi returning from Syria with murderous plans, Jonas sends out for a telling photograph: a crocodile, almost submerged, just its eyes above water as it waits for unsuspecting prey to drink at the riverbank.Coming ashore near Dover, Cameron Jilkes is a young man from a broken home and a failed education, trained in the harshest theatre of war, driven to rage by loss and pain.And this time, 'the eternal flame' must go out - to hunt the crocodile himself.'A novel displaying all the author's many strengths, from his John le Carré-like ability to portray the intelligence world from top to bottom, to its line up of memorable supporting characters' The Sunday Times on BEYOND RECALLReaders love THE CROCODILE HUNTER:'Another winner from Gerald Seymour' 5*'An outstanding book and thoroughly recommended' 5*'Every year without fail . . . Gerald Seymour comes up with a masterful thriller . . . A wonderful read from a master of his craft' 5*Trade ReviewHe has never lost his journalist's eye for the stories behind the news * The Sunday Times *Compelling novel . . . Seymour's feel for the Kent landscape and his realisation of minor characters, such as Cameron's heart-hardened mother, are almost Dickensian * The Times *Another fine spy story with an offbeat protagonist. * Peterborough Telegraph *The three British masters of suspense, Graham Greene, Eric Ambler, and John le Carre, have been joined by a fourth - Gerald Seymour * The New York Times *

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Book SynopsisThe second novel from the award-winning author of international bestseller WAKE, picked as a Guardian Book of the Year in 2022.Gemma Guillory has lived in Rainier her entire life. She knows the tiny town's ins and outs like the back of her hand, the people like they are her family, their quirks as if they were her own.She knows her once charming town is now remembered for one reason, and one reason only. That three innocent people died. That the last stop on the Rainier Ripper's trail of deaths fifteen years ago was her innocuous little tea shop. She knows that the consequences of catching the Ripper still haunt her policeman husband and their marriage to this day and that some of her neighbours are desperate - desperate enough to welcome a dark tourism company keen to cash in on Rainier's reputation as the murder town.When the tour operator is killed by a Ripper copycat on Gemma's doorstep, the unease that has lurked quietly in the original killer's wake turns to foreboding, and she's drawn into the investigation. Unbeknownst to her, so is a prisoner named Lane Holland.Gemma knows her town. She knows her people. Doesn't she?PRAISE FOR WAKE:'Politically savvy, cleverly plotted . . . the kind of book that invites the ravenous language of binge reading: compulsive, propulsive, addictive' NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW'It is hard to believe WAKE is a first novel. Plot, pacing and characterisation are so finely judged that it feels more like the work of a past master' THE TIMES'So plausible and terrifying, it stays with you' THE AUSTRALIAN WOMEN'S WEEKLY'Outstanding . . . This is both a well-plotted, gripping mystery and a sensitive exploration of the aftermath of trauma' THE GUARDIAN

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Book Synopsis'Powerful . . . A twisting tale of love, loss, and dark family secrets' Paula Hawkins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Girl on the Train and Into the WaterIt begins with a mystery. Sylvie, the beautiful, brilliant, successful older daughter of the Lee family, flies to the Netherlands for one final visit with her dying grandmother - and then vanishes.Amy, the sheltered baby of the Lee family, is too young to remember a time when her parents were newly immigrated and too poor to keep Sylvie. Seven years older, Sylvie was raised by a distant relative in a faraway, foreign place, and didn't rejoin her family in America until age nine. Timid and shy, Amy has always looked up to her sister, the fierce and fearless protector who showered her with unconditional love.But what happened to Sylvie? Amy and her parents are distraught and desperate for answers. Sylvie has always looked out for them. Now, it's Amy's turn to help. Terrified yet determined, Amy retraces her sister's movements, flying to the last place Sylvie was seen. But instead of simple answers, she discovers something much more valuable: the truth. Sylvie, the golden girl, kept painful secrets . . . secrets that will reveal more about Amy's complicated family - and herself - than she ever could have imagined.A deeply moving story of family, secrets, identity, and longing, Searching for Sylvie Lee is both a gripping page-turner and a sensitive portrait of an immigrant family. It is a profound exploration of the many ways culture and language can divide us and the impossibility of ever truly knowing someone - especially those we love.Trade ReviewPowerful . . . A twisting tale of love, loss, and dark family secrets * Paula Hawkins *Gripping and emotionally resonant on every page - a remarkable achievement * Scott Turow *A wonderful portrait of an immigrant family and one of the best "unputdownable" suspense novels I've read in a long time * Herman Koch *A heartbreaking, tumultuous ride of a novel that upends our expectations-about family loyalty, cultural identity and the very nature of love itself-at every twist and turn * Julie Otsuka *Kwok's story spans generations, continents and language barriers, combining old-fashioned Nancy Drew sleuthing with the warmth and heart we've come to expect from this gifted writer * New York Times Book Review *A moving tale that, while billed as a mystery, transcends the genre . . . This is a beautifully written story in which the author evokes the hard reality of being an immigrant and a woman in today's world * Washington Post *Such a brilliant smart mystery. The twists, the cultural implications and the family secrets all play out slowly with tantalising risk * iNews *Kwok vividly brings out how multiple and sometimes conflicting cultural, familial and linguistic affiliations make us who we are * i *Kwok's exploration of the lies we tell by putting on a mask for the world, or simply avoiding speaking the truth, is often elegantly unrolled * Observer *

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Book SynopsisA MURDER TO SOLVE. A REPORTER ON THE CASE.CRIMES OF THE PAST WON'T STAY BURIED . . .In the woodland community of Shady Hollow, you'll discover a secret. Moose and mice, owls and bears live side by side in civilised harmony. The town has a coffee shop and a bookshop, a haberdasher and a bank. Life is peaceful, until a skeleton is found buried deep under an apple tree. Danger has returned to Shady Hollow.Ace reporter Vera Vixen only wants a good news story as harvest time arrives with the promise of glorious feasts ahead. But the discovery of the body casts a darker shadow. Soon enough, the coffeeshop's owner is being dragged down to the police station. Vera can't believe gentle Joe the moose is a killer. To get to the bottom of the matter, she will have to dig into the secrets her neighbours would rather leave buried forever . . .Entertaining and perceptive, Cold Clay is fast-paced and witty, with characters that jump off the page and a hugely satisfying mystery to solve. Once you've met the residents of ShadyHollow, you won't forget them.

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the DI Nicholas Lowry series, for fans of Peter James and Stuart Macbride.It's November 1983 in Essex and there are reasons to be cheerful. Uptown Girl is sitting pretty at the top of the charts, Risky Business is raking it in at the box office, and there are now four channels on the telly. However, social tensions are beginning to bubble beneath the surface: Mrs Thatcher has embarked on her second controversial term, and the situation in Northern Ireland is ever-escalating.Yet in the garrison town of Colchester, it's another deadly standoff that is hogging the headlines. The body of a nineteen-year-old Lance Corporal has been discovered on the local High Street, the result of what appears to be a bizarre, chivalrous duel. It seems he was the victim of a doomed army love triangle. As such, the military police are wishing to keep the matter confined within military ranks.This is all just fine, as far as Colchester CID is concerned. They have enough on their plate as is: with DI Nick Lowry in a tailspin following the breakdown of his marriage, WPC Jane Gabriel exasperated by the male-favoured system, Detective Daniel Kenton relying on substance abuse to quieten his demons from his last case; and their boss, DCS Sparks, shortly to become a first-time father at 55.However, it is not long before the blood from the duel runs into civilian police affairs, and the trail presents CID with a local rogues' gallery. A savvy entrepreneur. A wayward skinhead. A member of the landed gentry. And a shadowy Mauritian travel agent with a chilling reputation. Soon, they will discover, a real estate deal, a racist, and the town's Robin Hood pub hold the key to the killing...Trade ReviewWhitethroat is an intricate picture of provincial Britain in the 80s - Thatcher, Northern Ireland, racial tensions, drugs, skinheads. It's also a portrait of Colchester - an army-run garrison town of feuding squaddies and their secrets. Policing all that, & digging up past crimes thought long forgotten, is an explosive mix -- Paul FrenchWhitethroat is bleak, downbeat and mesmerising; a subtle, compassionate and beautifully written novel that is something of an elegy to a way of policing - and living - that is gone for ever. -- FullyBooked2017With a satisfyingly labyrinthine plot, Whitethroat is a story of males in crisis: young soldiers plagued by the memories of Derry firebombs; businessmen with scores to settle; police officers trying to self-medicate for work-induced trauma. Then there's Lowry himself, lonely and adrift after the breakup of his marriage. It's downbeat and beautifully written * Guardian *Brilliant characters that ooze with all the excesses of the age * Scottish Sun *

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Book SynopsisSome games can be deadly'So dark and so clever -- a thrilling puzzle for the reader to solve. I loved it' Lucy Foley'Kiernan's best yet. You'll be gripped from the minute you open The Murder Box . . .' Cara Hunter'A real page-turner with an ingenious plot' Patricia GibneyAt first, Detective Chief Superintendent Frankie Sheehan believes the murder mystery game sent to her office is a birthday gift from one of her colleagues. But when Frankie studies the game's contents, she notices a striking resemblance between the 'murder victim' and missing twenty-two-year-old Lydia Callin. As Frankie and her team investigate, a series of grisly crimes connected to the game are discovered across Dublin city and Lydia's involvement with a shadowy network of murder mystery players becomes clear. On the hunt for Lydia's murderer, Frankie is drawn more deeply into the game. Every successful move brings her closer to the killer. But the real question is not what happens should she lose -- but what happens if she wins.'A superior police procedural' Sarah Vaughan'Pin-sharp prose, brilliant characters and a hook to die for' Phoebe Locke'Tight, tense, pacy and full of twists. A cracker' Neil Lancaster'Very clever, chilling and brilliantly written! LOVED it!' Karen Hamilton'Clever, shocking, and psychologically astute - this deserves to be huge' Caz Frear'Grabs you by the throat from the first page and doesn't let go until the last' Araminta Hall'An original concept that kept me utterly gripped from start to finish' Nikki Smith'Sleekly written, atmospheric, and beautifully macabre' Charlotte Philby'Authentic, taut, intriguing storytelling' Mari Hannah'You won't be able to close it until you've solved the puzzle' Trevor Wood'The Murder Box is compulsive reading - and has the most genius twist' Sam Blake'A genius premise and beautiful writing. Loved it' Susi Holiday'A masterful and original thriller' Rachel Edwards'Line of Duty fans, here's your next obsession!' Amanda Reynolds'Olivia's Kiernan's The Murder Box cements her position as one of the rising stars of crime fiction' Fiona CumminsTrade ReviewKiernan's best yet. You'll be gripped from the minute you open the Murder Box..... -- Cara HunterCleverly plotted, it's a page-turner that keeps you guessing * Choice *Offers something a little different, as Kiernan tests the elasticity of the police procedural's parameters * Irish Times *A clever, original story is augmented by Kiernan's masterful writing, credible characters, and a smashing finale * Sunday Independent *Twisty, smartly plotted * Real People * A multi-layered novel and the main plot that is so cleverly put together - you will want to devour this book and do little else but read * Belfast Telegraph *told efficiently and with relish * Sunday Times Crime Club – Mark Sanderson’s Pick of the Week *So dark and so clever - a thrilling puzzle for the reader to solve. I loved it. -- Lucy Foley

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Book SynopsisThe New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of the Department Q series is back, with a terrifyingly relevant stand-alone novel about an America in chaos. THE NO. 1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR27 MILLION BOOKS SOLDWINNER OF THE GLASS KEY AWARD"The president has gone way too far. . . . These are practically dictatorial methods we're talking about." When Democratic Senator Bruce Jansen is elected president of the United States, it is a personal victory for Dorothy "Dottie" Rogers. She has secured a job in the White House, has proved to her Republican father that she was right to support Jansen, and is proud to see the rise of an intelligent, inspiring leader who shares her ideals. But the triumph is short-lived: Jansen's pregnant wife is assassinated on election night, and the alleged mastermind behind the shooting is none other than Dottie's own father. When Jansen ascends to the White House, he is a changed man, determined to end gun violence by any means necessary. Rights are taken away as quickly as weapons. Checkpoints and roadblocks destroy infrastructure. The media is censored. Militias declare civil war on the government. The country is in chaos, and Dottie's finds herself fighting for the life of her father, who just may be innocent.Trade ReviewAdler-Olsen weaves a thought-provoking dystopia...a hauntingly timely political thriller - BooklistTantalizing and timely - Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author

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Book Synopsis'Riveting... as shocking as it is brilliant' Daily Mail'A cleverly contrived reworking of the Kennedy assassination myth' The Times'A really terrific read' Literary ReviewDarkly imaginative alternative history thriller from the global bestseller and author of the Bernie Gunther thrillers.America, 1960. In Washington, DC, John F Kennedy has just been elected President. In Havana, Fidel Castro has been in office for a year, and with Cold War tensions rapidly heating up and the Soviets leading the space race, the thought of a Communist leader so close to home is already raising American blood pressure. Anti-communist fever is rampant in the USA, with a paranoid establishment seeing reds under every bed. Nevertheless, the decision to snuff out the threat of Castro by hiring Tom Jefferson, America's best assassin, to kill him comes from an unusual quarter: the Mafia.But Jefferson's very skillset that makes him the perfect man for this job also ensures he has no qualms in double crossing his criminal paymasters. Jefferson has no issue with Castro: his preferred target is someone much closer to home...'Mind boggling ... keeps you guessing until the end' Sunday ExpressTrade ReviewNot since Oliver Stone's JFK has there been such a cleverly contrived reworking of the Kennedy assassination myth - The TimesRiveting ... as shocking as it is brilliant - Mail on SundayEnough excitement to leave you feeling limp. A really terrific read - Literary Review

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Book Synopsis'This searing debut from a retired social worker of 30 years could not be more timely - nor more true ... Harrowing, moving and written with a fearsome authenticity, the story forces the reader to question where the truth lies' Daily MailAn evil monster exposed? Or an innocent father condemned? A scandal will shake a small community to its very foundations.Two women have come forward to make historical sexual allegations against a pillar of the local community, Matthew Cooper. The case lands on the desk of inexperienced Social Worker, Kit Goddard, who must remove Cooper from his home and family while the investigation is carried out. Although intrepid and intuitive, she is ill-prepared for such a high-profile case.Kit finds herself navigating a local minefield of connections and class, reputations and rumour. Unsure whether her interference is a heroic intervention or a hurtful intrusion, she knows one thing: it will have an impact. The question is whether this impact will be to expose a lie, or destroy an innocent life...Reader reviews***** Brilliant***** An absorbing read***** Well written and ultimately very cathartic***** Couldn't put this book downTrade ReviewAllegation's subject of historical abuse could not be more timely or alarming in this smashing debut from RG Adams. Social worker Kit Goddard is an utterly convincing character negotiating an obstacle course of prejudice, gossip and false truths. I hope we see more of her * The Book of Forgotten Authors *Thought provoking and page turning at the same time. Kit Goddard is a fantastically drawn character and I look forward to reading more in the series. -- Jenny BlackhurstThis searing debut from a retired social worker of 30 years could not be more timely - nor more true ... Harrowing, moving and written with a fearsome authenticity, the story forces the reader to question where the truth lies. * Daily Mail *

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Book Synopsis'A BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN STORY OF SISTERS AND THEIR FAMILIES WHOSE LIVES ARE PROFOUNDLY CHANGED BY WAR. GREY IS NOT AFRAID TO SEARCH IN THE SHADOWS FOR THE TRUTH. A TERRIFIC AND THOUGHT PROVOKING READ' ELIZABETH BUCHANIdentical twin sisters Freya and Shona take very different paths, leading to long-buried family secrets that reverberate through the generations in this thrilling novel of psychological suspense by the author of Tell Me How It Ends. There are some choices you can't come back from.It is 1944 in war-battered London. Freya and Shona are identical twins, close despite their different characters. Freya is a newly qualified doctor treating the injured in an East End hospital, while Shona has been recruited by the SOE. The sisters are so physically alike that they can fool people into thinking that one is the other. It's a game they've played since childhood. But when Shona persuades her twin to swap roles to meet her Polish lover, he is angered at being tricked.Then Shona proposes a far more dangerous swapping of roles. At first Freya refuses but finally she agrees, with consequences that threaten not only the happiness but the lives of both sisters.Forty-five years later in November 1989 Freya, now aged 69, is watching television with her daughter Kirsty. Freya is gripped as she witnesses crowds of Berliners attempting to knock down their hated Wall. This sight stirs long buried memories of her own and her sister's war, especially the tragedy of the Warsaw Uprising - memories that she has never shared with anyone. Even if she wanted to reveal them now, she can't. She's suffering from a brain tumour and is unable to speak although her reason is unimpaired. And this is what she's thinking: if they succeed in knocking down the Wall, what secrets will come tumbling through? If her own were revealed, it would be devastating for all those close to her, especially her daughter.Trade ReviewMoving smoothly between two time periods, Grey investigates how secrets from the past continue to warp the present * The Sunday Times *This psychological suspense delivers not one, but two gripping heroines * Sunday Post *a perceptive, engaging novel... The plot is a finely carved jigsaw, the pieces fitting together seamlessly * Shots Magazine *A powerful story * Choice *A beautifully written story of sisters and their families whose lives are profoundly changed by war. A terrific and thought-provoking read * Elizabeth Buchan, author of TWO WOMEN IN ROME *I enjoyed it very much...involving and exciting with not one but two engaging heroines and a story that takes many unexpected turns * Adele Geras author of DANGEROUS WOMEN *Told with masterly clarity - an absorbing journey through a slice of Poland's gripping wartime history and a heart-rending exploration of the effect on one family of secrets kept for too long * Carolyn Kirby, author of WHEN WE FALL *

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Book SynopsisShe says he is a killer. He says she is delusional. Somebody is lying.When Claire Fontaine learns that her ex-husband Simon is marrying again, to a woman with a teenage daughter, her blood runs cold. She is sure that years ago Simon molested her own daughter and was responsible for her mysterious death. She can't let him get away with it a second time. Vandalism, harassment; whatever it takes, Claire will expose him.Simon doesn't know where Claire got this delusion from; her daughter's death was ruled a suicide, but she has always blamed herself - is she just lashing out? Wanting to protect his new fiancee, he hires Sloane Wilson, an ex-cop turned 'sin-eater', whose job it is to handle delicate cases without getting the police involved, to get Claire off his back.Sloane must navigate the wreckage of Claire and Simon's marriage to discover the truth. Two people with conflicting stories and a whole lot of reasons to want to hurt each other. Is she crazy or is he manipulative? And can Sloane stay clear-headed enough to figure it out?Trade ReviewPacked with suspense and surprises, it is hard to put down * Daily Mail *Remarkably polished first mystery * New York Times *A hangman's noose of a thriller, airtight and inescapable, each strand expertly braided, each loop perfectly knotted. Harrowing yet humane - a novel as provocative as it is suspenseful -- A.J. FinnAn Inconvenient Woman is beautifully, beautifully written and suspenseful from the chilling opening until the end -- James PattersonAbsolutely stunning! A brilliant concept meets perfect execution in An Inconvenient Woman, a twisting thriller in which a looming tragedy and a horrific crime from the past are masterfully woven together. It's hard to believe that this is Buelens's first novel; I truly hope more are in the future-preferably the near future -- Jeffery DeaverOld problems told by conflicting voices. A new, sharp view of female realty. Sin Eater! What a fascinating concept. I could not put it down! -- Anne PerryAddictive, immersive, unputdownable. The powerful women at the beating heart of this beautifully-wrought thriller - women with grudges and looking for a certain brand of justice - give the old school noir vibe a thoroughly modern energy. As deep and human as it is rocket-paced, An Inconvenient Woman is a slick, accomplished debut -- Lisa UngerStephanie Buelens has the freshness and originality of a new writer, and the style and assuredness of an old master. For true fans of the psychological thriller, An Inconvenient Woman is as good a debut novel as I've read in years. Beautifully written, tense, taut, and tightly plotted, with fully developed characters who may or may not be telling the whole truth. A true mind-twister that will keep you guessing until the end -- Nelson DeMilleBy turns lyrical and enraged, but always poignant, An Inconvenient Woman provides relentless thrills. Buelens will inevitably invite comparisons to Liane Moriarty and Gillian Flynn - a taut, gripping noir mystery that is as timely as it is ferocious -- Lyndsay FayeA dark and riveting thriller with unexpected twists at every turn. I loved the two women at the heart of the story -- Camilla LachbergI wouldn't hesitate to recommend this masterpiece of apparent inevitability and tension building to anybody * Mystery People *

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Book SynopsisA wonderful storyteller Chris WhitakerThe big dark house at the top of the hill never felt like Evy''s.Erling''s parents insisted it be held in his name only, that their old furniture should remain in place after they were gone.And now Erling''s gone too. Her husband and her rock. A heart attack while riding his bike. No trace of his medications were found in his body, as if someone had tampered with them.Right now, Evy can''t be sure of anything. Her memory''s patchy, her focus blurred. Her grown-up children whisper about her like she can''t be trusted to look after herself.How can she tell them she doesn''t feel safe in the house? Doors left open she closed herself. Erling''s possessions no longer where he left them.Just because you''re paranoid doesn''t mean you''re not next.Praise for The TherapistCreepy, compelling and very well written Harriet TyceWonderfully creepy,

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Book SynopsisA gripping gangland thriller that sees heroine crime boss Kerry Casey in jail - for fans of Kimberley Chambers, Martina Cole and Jessie Keane'MARTINA COLE FANS WILL LOVE THIS' DAILY MIRRORKerry Casey is still reeling from the bombshell that her lover, undercover cop Vinny Burns, has gone missing in Spain. She's pregnant with his baby and will do anything to find him.One night, driving along a country road, Kerry and her Uncle Danny are ambushed by gunmen. In the confusion that follows, shots are fired and two men are murdered. Kerry and Danny can only look on as the bodies are dragged from their assailant's car and placed in their own.The police arrive in minutes. With cocaine, dead bodies and guns in the car, it looks like an open-and-shut case.Kerry's been framed. She is forced to wait out her fate inside a women's prison, still not knowing what has happened to Vinnie. On the outside the Casey gang are hunting down the men who did this to her and they will stop at nothing to find them.

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of Deliver Me comes a gripping new thriller with a twist you'll never see coming! Thirty-two-year-old Jessica is newly divorced and has returned home to live with her parents whilst she puts the pieces of her life back together. But Jessica isn't the only one with problems, as her mother, Jean, has recently been diagnosed with dementia. Shortly after Jessica's arrival, one of the neighbours falls to her death, in what appears to be a terrible accident. However, Jean claims that the woman was murdered by her husband and that she witnessed the whole thing. With Jean's memory rapidly deteriorating, her family dismiss her story, believing Jean is confused. But when Jessica learns that the couple next door's marriage may have been in trouble, she begins to wonder if her mother did see something after all. Jessica is determined to discover the truth, but soon uncovers much more than she bargained for... An addictive psychological thriller for fans of Rachel Abbott and CL Taylor.See what readers are saying about Karen Cole:'This is one of the best books I've ever read. Gripped me from page one' Sue, Amazon reviewer'If you like Karin Slaughter you will love this!'Cath, Amazon reviewer'That reveal?!? I was constantly guessing throughout and I still didn't see that ending coming even though the clues are there!'Chanel, Amazon reviewer'This book is stunning - I was completely hooked from start to finish'Donna, Amazon reviewer

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Book SynopsisAll aboard for the latest Kitt Hartley mystery: a swashbuckling adventure with a charming cast of characters, split between Newcastle and Norway.

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Book Synopsis'THIS FOLLOW-UP IS AS ENTHRALLING AS ITS PREDECESSOR' Sunday Times'BRILLIANTLY IMAGINED AND THOROUGHLY CHILLING' Observer'BEGINS WITH A BANG AND DOESN'T LET UP' Clare ChambersThrilling dystopian fiction from the acclaimed author of Widowland. Perfect for fans of Margaret Atwood.It is 1955 and Britain is still a Protectorate of Germany. The assassination of the Leader on British soil provoked violent retribution towards British citizens, particularly women. Rose Ransom is amazed even to be alive, her role in the assassination miraculously overlooked. The widowed Queen Wallis reigns, yet some citizens hope that Elizabeth may one day return.President Eisenhower is to visit Britain and Rose is tasked with briefing Queen Wallis. She finds the queen in a state of paranoia, desperate to return to America. But Wallis, a poker addict, has a trump card - a document so explosive that it will blow the Protectorate apart, should she dare to reveal it.'FULL OF TWISTS' Red'A GRIPPING THRILLER' Bel Mooney'THRILLING, SUBVERSIVE' Jane Harris'A TRIUMPH' Amanda CraigTrade ReviewIt begins with a bang and doesn't let up. There were so many telling references to the current political climate it was frightening. C.J. Carey has created a detailed and convincing alternative universe and a gutsy heroine you really care about * Clare Chambers *Brilliantly imagined and thoroughly chilling, this is a counterfactual tour de force * Guardian *This is a chilling , compelling read, full of twists and ''what if?'' moments * Red *Exciting and provocative dystopian fiction * Observer *A triumph! So often, sequels disappoint, but Queen High is not just as compelling, sinister, satirical and original as Widowland, it's actually better in that it shows us how we might find a way out of tyranny and barbarism * Amanda Craig *Oh, be careful, people! Brilliant C.J. Carey hasn't just written a gripping thriller but holds a satirical mirror up to modern life. And at the heart of Queen High is a serious, passionate belief in the power of women and of books to effect change * Bel Mooney *Carey has built on the world of Widowland just brilliantly. The parallels with contemporary events (how character and history effect attitudes to "rules"; the sense of a political order making it up as it goes along; the role of women) are just ingenious. Wallace too, what a character! I hope it flies off the shelves - it deserves to' * Sabine Durrant *Another triumph from C.J. Carey in this follow-up to the brilliant Widowland. Thrilling, subversive, page-turning, deeply feminist, and beautifully written * Jane Harris *This follow-up is as enthralling as its predecessor * The Sunday Times *Rose's double life unravels as Carey coldly and cleverly controls the release of who knows what, reflecting the ruthless surveillance techniques of a totalitarian regime where no one trusts anyone * Daily Mail *A brilliant, vividly imagined spine-chilling dystopian thriller * Irish Independent *Words continue to have power both on and off the page as Carey expands her alternate history to good effect * Sci Fi Bulletin *Fascinating novel of alternative history and a suspenseful story * SHOTS Magazine *History as it might have been, wonderfully-sketched characters, crime and conspiracies: a perfect thriller and I can't wait for the next volume' * Crime Time *Irresistible mix of fact, fiction and feminism * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book Synopsis'FAST PACED AND GRIPPING BUT WITH A HEART OF PURE GOLD' HARRIET TYCE'BEGINS AT THE SPEED OF A RUNAWAY TRAIN ... PROPULSIVE PAGE-TURNER' VASEEM KHAN'GO RUBY! WHAT A HERO!' FIONA ERSKINEIt takes a village to save a child in this pulse-pounding standalone thriller from the acclaimed author of The Man on the Street.It wasn't her dad they were after.It was her. Ruby Winter is surprised when her reclusive father invites a stranger into their house. She eavesdrops on their conversation and is alarmed when she hears a fight break out. She dashes into the kitchen to save her dad but the stranger's the one lying on the floor in a pool of blood. Her dad urges her to pack a bag. They must quit their Northumbrian cottage and run. There isn't time to explain why. But as they try to flee her dad is captured.The only people who can help her are the villagers she has shunned her whole life. But, desperate to find her father and to work out who took him and why, she must seek their help.But what if learning the truth means discovering the life she once knew was a lie?Trade ReviewFast paced and gripping but with a heart of solid gold. Great stuff -- Harriet TyceI raced through it. I loved the characters and the dark humour. A cracking, pacy read. -- Patricia GibneyA tour de force. From behind the twitching curtains of a small divided village a force of unlikely ne'er do wells come together in this edgy, electrifying modern thriller. Once again Wood proves himself a brilliant champion of the underdog -- William ShawAt once tense and compelling, Ruby is a character that no one could fail to root for * Daily Mail *Begins at the speed of a runaway train. A propulsive page-turner * Vaseem Khan *Punchy, pacy and packed with powerful scenes. Nailed on to be one of THE books of 2023 -- Robert ScraggA good thriller needs more than just a compelling plot, I want to care about the characters too. Trevor Wood pulls that off superbly in You Can Run with a cast of characters I was sorry to say goodbye to at the end. -- Frances QuinnTrevor Wood has written another cracker of a book. A different cast of characters from his previous trilogy but equally engaging with a theme that focuses on community and what it takes to belong. I loved it -- Nikki SmithGot up early to finish this smashing new book. Go Ruby! What a hero! Books of 2023 will definitely include You Can Run -- Fiona ErskineSuperb. Wood delivers the perfect package with brilliantly authentic voices and a wildly exciting plot. But it's a thriller with heart. The perfect balance of pace, compassion and black humour as we rally for his exquisitely executed underdogs. Everything you want from a book -- Emma ChristieA menacing isolation action thriller. At once an affecting mediation on family and identity, and also a heart-pounding survival tale that digs into issues of power and class -- Dominic NolanA masterclass in suspense ... vividly-drawn villagers take on a foe that exudes genuine menace. Wood has distilled the authenticity and wry humour of his Jimmy Mullen trilogy into this compulsive thriller. Be careful picking it up - you won't want to put it down! -- Tom BenjaminAn incredibly fun, page-turner locked village thriller (is that a thing? It is now!). It's exciting, has a cast of great characters, humour and is full of personality! * Charlotte Levin *Trevor Wood is a force to be reckoned with in the genre * Mystery People *Wood's punchy prose is perfect for such an enticing set-up, and he's a past master at keeping those cliff-hangers (and revelations) coming * The Crack *Cracking . . . Breathlessly gripping * Peterborough Telegraph *Trevor Wood has fashioned a rip-roaring, action-packed and nail-bitingly tense thriller * Irish Independent Review *Original and unputdownable * Promoting Crime Fiction *A gripping new tale from adopted Geordie Trevor Wood * Living North *Trevor's inimitable voice, humanity and humour really shone through in this locked village mystery * Mari Hannah *A sinister standalone thriller * Sunday Times *

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Book Synopsis"Tremendous and enjoyable" - La Libre Belgique"A great success" - La CroixApril, 1940. Louise Belmont runs naked down the boulevard du Montparnasse. To understand the traumatic scene she has just witnessed, she will have to plunge headlong into the madness of the Phoney War, as France, seized by the panic of a new European conflict, descends into chaos.Louise navigates this period of enormous upheaval in parallel with her fellow citizens - including Maginot Line conscripts Raoul and Gabriel, bistro-owner Monsieur Jules and confidence trickster Désiré Migault. The looming threat of German occupation uncovers long-buried secrets and makes for strange bedfellows, as one extraordinary twist of fate follows another.With characteristic wit and verve, Pierre Lemaitre chronicles the fall of a nation crushed by circumstance. The final novel in his award-winning trilogy is an incandescent tale that veers from the tragic to the burlesque.Translated from the French by Frank WynneTrade ReviewA great success * La Croix *Lemaitre's new historical chronicle possesses the desperate irony that made the early volumes so successful * BibliObs *Pierre Lemaitre brings his brilliant interwar trilogy to a close * Le Journal de Quebec *Tremendous and enjoyable * La Libre Belgique *Great characters and a roaring pace * Le Monde *Spectacular * Le Soir *A vibrant tapestry of a decayed and defeated France * Financial Times *

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Book Synopsis"Outback noir has a new star" MARK SANDERSON, The Times"Deliciously dark" ALISON FLOOD, Guardian"Outback noir with the noir dialled right up. I loved it." CHRIS HAMMER"Political crime fiction of the highest order" JOAN SMITH, The Sunday TimesA small town in outback Australia wakes to an appalling crime. A local schoolteacher is found taped to a tree and stoned to death. Suspicion instantly falls on the refugees at the new detention centre on Cobb's northern outskirts. Tensions are high, between whites and the local indigenous community, between immigrants and the townies. Still mourning the recent death of his father, Detective Sergeant George Manolis returns to his childhood hometown to investigate. Within minutes of his arrival, it's clear that Cobb is not the same place he left. Once it thrived, but now it's a poor and derelict dusthole, with the local police chief it deserves. And as Manolis negotiates his new colleagues' antagonism, and the simmering anger of a community destroyed by alcohol and drugs, the ghosts of his past begin to flicker to life. Vivid, pacy and almost dangerously atmospheric, The Stoning is the first in a new series of outback noir featuring DS Manolis, himself an outsider, and a good man in a world gone to hell.Trade ReviewThe Stoning is a police-procedural with a difference; a gritty, menacing novel with a terrific sense of place. A highly relevant examination of prejudice and racism in an outback town. Detective Sergeant George Manolis is a great new addition to the Australian crime scene. -- Emma Viskic * award-winning author of the Caleb Zelic crime series *It's hard to believe this is Peter Papathanasiou's first novel . . . Outback noir has a new star -- Mark Sanderson * The Times *Political crime fiction of a high order -- Joan Smith * The Sunday Times *In a town no one visits and everyone wants to leave, and where people eat strips of crocodile meat and the heat is pitiless, Papathanasiou conveys how the temperature infuses every interaction. Deliciously dark outback noir. -- Alison Flood * Guardian *This dark, brooding story is the first in a planned series of 'outback noir', and it bodes well -- Geoffrey Wansell * Daily Mail *Vivid and atmospheric . . . The writing is evocative, the characters are superbly drawn and the clever plot is layered and engaging . . . If you like your crime fiction dark, claustrophobic and thought-provoking with a strong sense of place then this book might be for you. -- Breda Brown * Irish Independent *Deeply disturbing outback noir that confronts our treatment of asylum seekers, our First Nations and each other. It's a superb start to a new series, heralding Peter Papathanasiou as a brilliant new name in Australian crime -- Cheryl Akle * Weekend Australian *We talk about these Australian books as having this atmosphere, they're about climate change and the drought . . . This book, this pretty dark book, is like outback noir plus. It's atmospheric, relevant and totally brutal. Absolutely in the spirit of Jane Harper and Chris Hammer and Garry Disher. -- Paul Burke * Heads Together: Crime Time FM *As the praise this debut is garnering from critics and crime fiction fans demonstrates, it stands out in that highly competitive genre, in part for a willingness to shine an unforgiving light on real world injustice and inequality -- Isabel Costello * The Literary Sofa *Drier than a Martian canal, hotter than a smelting forge: the investigation into a Biblical execution in a poverty-ravaged outback town finds city-based cop George Manolis battling drunken incompetence, racial hatred, and decades of state-sponsored dysfunction. Papathanasiou writes unsparingly, confidently, and compellingly. His book is desperately bleak but possessed by a savage beauty. * The Quietus *Brilliant and unsettling from start to finish -- Myles McWeeney * Irish Independent *The uglier sides of Australian life are explored in a hard-hitting outback noir debut... Papathanasiou doesn't pull any punches as he delivers outback noir with a clear-eyed look at hypocrisies old and new and some of the ugly sides of modern life in the 'lucky country'. -- Craig Sisterson * New Zealand Listener *This dark and gripping debut should put Papathanasiou up there with the stars of outback noir like Jane Harper and Chris Hammer. A brilliant new name in crime fiction. -- Cass Green * bestselling author of THE WOMAN NEXT DOOR and IN A COTTAGE, IN A WOOD *I was unable to put this book down - it's dark, gritty and utterly compelling. In George Manolis, you have a detective in the tradition of Chandler's Marlowe, yet entirely right for the times in which we live now - he's superbly written. -- Wyl Menmuir * author of Man Booker Prize-longlisted THE MANY *The Stoning repels and compels at the same time, laying bare the festering secrets of a small town one by one. A thoughtful and confident debut. -- Sulari Gentill * author of the award-winning Rowland Sinclair Mystery Series *A struggling cop, long-buried secrets, a town gone awry - this is outback noir with the noir dialled right up. I loved it. -- Chris Hammer

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