Crime & Thrillers Books

Book Synopsis'Hugh de Singleton is a delight... the well-crafted plot, the excellent period detail and the flashes of humour.' Donna Fletcher Crow, author of The Monastery Murders "My life would have been more tranquil in the days after Martinmas had I not seen the crows. Whatever it was that the crows had found lay in the dappled shadow of the bare limbs of the oak, so I was nearly upon the thing before I recognized what the crows were feasting upon. The corpse wore black." Master Hugh is making his way towards Oxford when he discovers the young Benedictine - a fresh body, barefoot - not half a mile from the nearby abbey. The abbey's novice master confirms the boy's identity: John, one of three novices. But he had gone missing four days previously, and his corpse is fresh. There has been plague in the area, but this was not the cause of death: the lad has been stabbed in the back. To Hugh's sinking heart, the abbot has a commission for him... A new and disturbing puzzle for the medieval surgeon-turned-sleuth.Trade Review“Hugh de Singleton is a delight… the well-crafted plot, the excellent period detail and the flashes of humour.” -- Donna Fletcher Crow, author of The Monastery Murders“Dances along, taking you with it all the way… exciting mystery, delightful historical detail – a tale well told. I loved it.” -- Penelope Wilcock, author of The Hawk and the Dove trilogy

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Book Synopsis'Another exciting page-turner by Mel Starr. He beautifully depicts the counds, sights and smells, as well as the emotions, of the medieval world in this welcome addition to his long-running series. ' Jill Dalladay, author of The Abbess of Whitby Lord Gilbert Talbot must provide soldiers for Prince Edward's battle in France. He wishes his surgeon - Hugh de Singleton - to travel with the war party to tend any injuries. Among those on the road is Sir Simon Trillowe, Hugh's old nemesis, who had once torched Hugh's house. Finding himself in the same war party, Hugh resolves to watch his back in the presence of the knight, who is still holding a grudge. But it is Sir Simon who should not have turned his back... When Trillowe's body is found, many suspect Hugh has wreaked revenge on his adversary. To clear his name, Hugh must once again riddle a reason for murder.Trade Review“Another exciting page-turner by Mel Starr. Confronted by skulduggery in the Black Prince’s camp, resolute surgeon Hugh de Singleton risks neck and soul to uncloak the villains. Starr beautifully depicts the sounds, sights and smells, as well as the emotions, of the medieval world in this welcome addition to his long-running series.” -- Jill Dalladay, author of The Abbess of WhitbyIt’s a bit of a cross between `Cadfael’ and `Midsomer Murders’. -- Paul Bootes

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Book SynopsisMidwinter in Antarctica. Six months of darkness are about to begin. Scientist Katie Flanagan has an undeserved reputation as a trouble-maker and her career has foundered. When an accident creates an opening on a remote Antarctic research base she seizes it, flying in on the last plane before the subzero temperatures make it impossible to leave. Meanwhile patent lawyer Daniel Marchmont has been asked to undertake due diligence on a breakthrough cancer cure. But the key scientist is strangely elusive and Daniel uncovers a dark secret that leads to Antarctica. Out on the ice a storm is gathering. As the crew lock down the station they discover a body and realise that they are trapped with a killer...

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Book Synopsis'Another delightful and absorbing mystery from Mel Starr, keeping the reader guessing as the corpses pile up in Prince Edward's palace. Hugh de Singleton, of the dry wit and engaging humility, is one of my favourite sleuths.' Penelope Wilcock, British author and blogger Master Hugh won the Black Prince's favour when he helped to ease the Prince's illness. Now, in the autumn of 1372, the prince is suffering a relapse and sends to Bampton for Master Hugh to attend him. While at dinner in Kennington Palace, Sir Giles, the knight who escorted Hugh to London, is stricken and dies. Poison! Sir Giles is not popular, and there are many who would gladly see the fellow done away with... except for Prince Edward. The Black Prince feels a debt to the slain man because of his heroic behaviour at the Battle of Crecy, where the knight stood firm with the prince when the fight seemed of uncertain outcome. Despite caring little for Sir Giles, Master Hugh must once again place himself in jeopardy and seek to uncover the perpetrator of the crime...Trade ReviewAnother delightful and absorbing mystery from Mel Starr, keeping the reader guessing as the corpses pile up in Prince Edward's palace. Hugh de Singleton, of the dry wit and engaging humility, is one of my favourite sleuths. -- Penelope Wilcock, British author and bloggerPrince Edward's Warrant is another fascinating chapter in the chronicle of the fourteenth-century surgeon Hugh de Singleton. A truly engrossing and entertaining read. Hugh is a most sympathetic character, well-versed and skilled in all matters of medicine. Mel Starr has created a truly believable character and skilfully evokes all the richness and poverty of the Middle Ages. A most fascinating read and a truly entertaining journey through the murky politics of Medieval England. A must for any reader interested in that period. -- Paul Doherty, award-winning English author, educator, lecturer and historian

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Book SynopsisThe atmosphere in the lab is toxic. It is only a matter of time before there is a flu pandemic with the potential to kill billions. Or so wealthy entrepreneur Lyle Lynstrum believes. That is why he is funding research into transgenics - the mechanism by which viruses can jump the species barrier - at a high security lab on a tidal island off the North Devon coast. A suspiciously rapid turnover of staff has him worried. He sends in scientist Katie Flanagan as an undercover lab technician. Something is clearly very wrong, but before Katie can get to the bottom of what is going on, a colleague is struck down by a mysterious illness. Has the safety of the facility been compromised, allowing a deadly virus to escape? Katie begins to suspect that the scientists are as deadly as the diseases - and that her cover has been blown. Then the island is cut off by high seas and a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse begins...

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Book SynopsisThe 1920s most stylish sleuth returns in The Crystal Crypt for another thrilling murder mystery! “But accidents can still happen… Perhaps there was something out of her control, something she couldn’t have foreseen…”“Like someone plotting to kill her?” Reporter sleuth Poppy Denby is asked to investigate the mysterious death of an up-and-coming female scientist in an Oxford laboratory known as the Crystal Crypt. The official verdict is that Dr June Leighton died in a tragic accident, but Dr Leighton's lab assistant believes it was murder. However, when Poppy discovers that the colleague has spent time in a mental institution and has an unresolved murder in her own past, Poppy wonders if she is being misled. But then, another female academic is attacked, and Poppy herself becomes a target.

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Book SynopsisSteven Vinacour''s hilarious u-bend adventure sees Ted travel back in time to get acting tips from Shakespeare himself all in the vain hope of becoming Romeo to Chloe''s Juliet in the school play. But two new additions at school and some dodgy plumbing may put a spanner in the works of his already dubious plan. A hilarious page-turner that encompasses history, adventure, and comedy in equal measure.

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Book SynopsisA TRAGIC HOUSE FIRE A GRIEVING FATHER LEFT BEHIND But is Christopher Chatman all that he seems? While neighbours insist that the family was living the dream, Los Angeles homicide detective Elouise "Lou" Norton quickly discovers that the flames of adultery, scandal and fraud had all but consumed them. Was the fire the work of a serial arsonist known as The Burning Man? Or was one of the Chatmans responsible? Searching for justice through the ashes of a picture-perfect family, Lou doesn't know if she will catch an arsonist or be burned in the process. PRAISE FOR THE SERIES "Fast-paced, layered, and gripping" Huffington Post "Complex, profound and riveting" Hank Phillippi Ryan "The story shines" Library Journal "Following in Philip Marlowe's footsteps" Telegraph "[An] exceptional crime novel" Publishers Weekly "a phenomenal book" Hilary Davidson

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Book SynopsisWhen American journalist Benjamin Barrett is sent to Constantinople to report on the sea trials of a new submarine, the assignment soon becomes more eventful than he had predicted, particularly after rescuing a certain professor from an attack...

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Book SynopsisA journey to Whitby heralds the start of a new case for SHERLOCK HOLMES and Dr. Henry Vernier. Their client is in love, but a mysterious letter has warned him of the dangers of the romance. The object of his affection is said to be under a thousand-year-old druidic curse, doomed to take the form of a gigantic snake. Locals speak of a green glow in the woods at night, and a white apparition amongst the trees. Is there sorcery at work, or is a human hand behind the terrors of Diana's Grove?

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Book SynopsisA visit from the distraught Ronald Temple sets SHERLOCK HOLMES and Dr Watson on the hunt for a kidnapped child. With no ransom note and a sinister connection to the highest echelons of Victorian society, it becomes clear that it is no ordinary kidnapping, and soon the companions' lives are in danger. What is the child's true heritage? And what is the connection with the Whitechapel murders of a decade before?

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Book SynopsisCashed out from the NYPD after 24 years, Doak Miller operates as a private eye in steamy small-town Florida, doing jobs for the local police. Like posing as a hit man and wearing a wire to incriminate a local wife who's looking to get rid of her husband. But when he sees the wife, when he looks into her deep blue eyes...He falls - and falls hard. Soon he's working with her, against his employer, plotting a devious plan that could get her free from her husband and put millions in her bank account. But can they do it without landing in jail? And once he's kindled his taste for killing...will he be able to stop at one?Trade Review"Lawrence Block is arguably the best crime writer living today, and he has just proven it again." -Criminal Element "This original novel from the invaluable Hard Case Crime is the hard-boiled noir that James M. Cain could never write. And Block makes it read effortlessly and fun. As a matter of fact, you will want to read it twice." -Book Reporter "The Girl with the Deep Blue Eyes is well worth the read and certainly a great addition to anyone s bookshelves." -New York Journal "This is a master crime writer doing a sharp and clever take on noir tropes, and it s a great read for fans of the genre." -Kemper's Book Blog "Block is at the top of his game here." - Zoom Street ..".tweaks the conventional Gold Medal noir pulp situation into something really meta and sophisticated. The conclusion of The Girl With the Deep Blue Eyes is singularly impressive." - Do The Math "THE GIRL WITH THE DEEP BLUE EYES is a little book that just might be Lawrence Block s masterpiece." -Book Reporter "The Girl with the Deep Blue Eyes"admirably"plays off the old black and white film noir without losing its own identity and interest. Its plotting is disturbingly good." - Gravetapping "THE GIRL WITH THE DEEP BLUE EYES is going make things interesting this fall." -Dead End Follies "Sex, murder, and moral ambiguity combine for a deliciously naughty read." - Booklist "A mighty good read that does not disappoint and is highly recommended." - kevintipplescorner.blogspot.co.uk "The Girl with the Deep Blue Eyes is a worthy addition to the Hard Case Crime Series and everything I've come to know and love about Lawrence Block's Hard Case novels." - shelfinflicted.com The Girl with the Deep Blue Eyes is a story that is steamy, violent and not the kind of reading your Sunday school teacher would recommend."- The Oklahoman "Simply remarkable." -Barry N. Malzberg "Block presents his main character with no filter on the lens. The guy is damaged goods, but it's not until your knee deep in the story do you realize just how damaged." -Wag The Fox A dark, dirty and nasty ride. Just plain fun! -Books and Lesser Evils"

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Book SynopsisWhen your boss is the Queen of England, you never know what the day will bring. For Gentleman Investigator for the Crown, Sir Maurice Newbury, it is likely to involve rooftop chases, sword fights, races through the Underground, and the most terrifying case of murders to ever plague London.When an Egyptian mummy is unveiled, a string of mysterious murders follows in its wake, drawing Newbury into a web of occult intrigue. Meanwhile, Miss Veronica Hobbes becomes increasingly perplexed by a growing pool of young women who have disappeared after being used as props in a magician's stage act. But what appears to be a straightforward investigation pulls Miss Hobbes into mortal danger.So begins another thrilling Newbury & Hobbes investigation - a weird and wonderful adventure quite unlike any other.Trade Review"Steampunk is making a comeback, and with this novel Mann is leading the charge... An engaging melodrama that rattles along at a breakneck pace." - The Guardian.

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Book SynopsisAt the time of his death, Erle Stanley Gardner was the best-selling American author of the 20th century, and world famous as the creator of crusading attorney Perry Mason. Gardner also created the hardboiled detective team of Cool and Lam, stars of 29 novels published between 1939 and 1970 -- and one that's never been published until now.Lost for more than 75 years, THE KNIFE SLIPPED was meant to be the second book in the series but shelved when Gardner's publisher objected to (among other things) Bertha Cool's tendency to "talk tough, swear, smoke cigarettes, and try to gyp people." But this tale of adultery and corruption, of double-crosses and triple identities -- however shocking for 1939 -- shines today as a glorious present from the past, a return to the heyday of private eyes and shady dames, of powerful criminals, crooked cops, blazing dialogue, and delicious plot twists.Trade Review"For fans of classic hard-boiled whodunits, this is a time machine back to an exuberant era of snappy patter, stakeouts, and double-crosses." -- Publishers Weekly"A remarkable discovery...fans will rejoice at another dose of Gardner's unexcelled mastery of pace and an unexpected new taste of his duo's cyanide chemistry." -- Kirkus Reviews“The Knife Slipped is a gift to aficionados of the Cool and Lam series . . .” - New York Journal of Books“A treasure that’s not to be missed.” - BookReporter"Fans of Gardner's straightforward and terse Perry Mason mysteries are in for a surprise and treat with the abundance of breezy and sarcastic humor found in The Knife Slipped. Like his Mason novels, The Knife Slipped is both fast moving and intricately plotted, but Lam's first-person narration allows much more freedom for Chandleresque descriptions and smart remarks." - Shelf Awareness “This vintage hardboiled mystery has plenty of sass and energy, with intricate plotting and a delightful parade of suspects. The Knife Slipped is a treat that no mystery fan will want to miss” - Shelf Awareness

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Book SynopsisDinslaken, Germany 1945. The war is over, leaving behind a broken nation. As the allied forces begin to uncover the horrors of the Holocaust, a war photographer makes the decision to capture the lives of the ordinary German people. Accompanied by his driver, the young and vulnerable O'Leary, the pair set off on a journey, one that changes both their lives forever. The Invisible Land is a story of the moral and emotional repercussions of violence, complicity and its aftermath.

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Book Synopsis‘Tony’s books are always absolute belters’ IAN RANKIN ‘The British Jack Reacher’ The Sunday Times ‘Packed with deception and espionage … Kent has become the British Baldacci, and there can be no higher praise.’ Daily Mail Don’t miss Book 5 from criminal barrister and crime author Tony Kent: THE SHADOW NETWORK How do you take down an enemy when no one believes they exist? When the lawyers of alleged war criminal Hannibal Strauss are caught up in a terror attack in The Hague, barrister Michael Devlin immediately suspects all is not what it seems. Teaming up once more with Agent Joe Dempsey, they must find who’s behind it all before any more innocent lives are lost. With their key witness on the run and assassins on their tail, their only lead is a codename: the Monk, a legendary and mysterious foreign agent with a fearsome reputation. But what is his stake in this dangerous game? And just who is part of his shadowy network of spies? Caught in a complicated web of lies, secrets and double agents, there’s no one Dempsey and Devlin can trust but themselves. PRAISE FOR THE SHADOW NETWORK ‘What a ride! The very definition of a fast-paced thriller … Tony Kent’s best yet.’ IMRAN MAHMOOD, AUTHOR OF ALL I SAID WAS TRUE ‘I couldn't put it down!’ STEPH BROADRIBB, AUTHOR OF DEATH ON THE BEACH ‘A blistering, bruising and utterly addictive thriller that never misses.’ NEIL BROADFOOT, AUTHOR OF UNMARKED GRAVES ‘Unrelenting tension, nerve-shredding action, and lightening pace. Joe Dempsey is this decade's Jack Bauer.’ NEIL LANCASTER, AUTHOR OF BLOOD RUNS COLDTrade Review‘At the heart of this crackling political thriller, packed with deception and espionage, lies a shadowy organisation determined to overthrow the world order. … Tense and fast paced, it has a fierce edge that questions whether the world as we know it can survive. Kent has become the British Baldacci, and there can be no higher praise.’ Daily Mail 'The latest Dempsey and Devlin offering starts with a literal bang, before continuing apace like the proverbial runaway train, switchbacking between Europe and America, conspiracy and murder, shadowy villains and deftly drawn heroes. A rollicking good thriller.' VASEEM KHAN, AUTHOR OF DEATH OF A LESSER GOD ‘Perfectly plotted, this adrenaline-fueled, action-packed thriller has high stakes and emotional punch in equal measure. I couldn't put it down!’ STEPH BROADRIBB, AUTHOR OF DEATH ON THE BEACH ‘Totally fantastic… Unrelenting tension, nerve-shredding action, and lightening pace. Joe Dempsey is this decade's Jack Bauer.’ NEIL LANCASTER, AUTHOR OF BLOOD RUNS COLD ‘Tony Kent is an outstanding thriller writer. The Shadow Network starts with a bang and draws you into a story with more action-packed twists and turns than a nitro-charged rollercoaster. Kent had me hanging on every word until the very end.’ ADAM HAMDY, AUTHOR OF WHITE FIRE ‘What a ride! The very definition of a fast-paced thriller. Great characters. Bang up to date plotting. Tony Kent’s best yet.’ IMRAN MAHMOOD, AUTHOR OF ALL I SAID WAS TRUE ‘A blistering, bruising and utterly addictive thriller that never misses.’ NEIL BROADFOOT, AUTHOR OF UNMARKED GRAVES 'A thriller of such physicality and pace that you’ll feel bruised after reading The Shadow Network. Another knockout from the British Baldacci.’ PAUL WATERS, AUTHOR OF BLACKWATERTOWN ‘Superb . . . The characters are brilliant, the plotting is top notch, the pacing is great – you find yourself taking a breath and digesting what’s happened but also absolutely not wanting to put it down… this book is really going to get under your skin!’ FIONA SHARP, INDEPENDENT BOOK REVIEWS ‘Jam packed with tension and action from the off, this book had me in its thrall immediately and did not let me go until I read that very last page. A tale of corruption, conspiracy and bloody brilliant misdirection’ JEN LUCAS, JEN MED’S BOOK REVIEWS ‘A pulsating page turner, that will leave you breathless . . . this is an outstanding read, a high-octane thriller which combines all the right elements, plot, character, storytelling, pure action scenes . . . Tony Kent has taken the thriller to another level, I cannot recommend The Shadow Network enough.’ AMWBooks ‘Wow, wow, wow. This is a very fast paced, thoroughly enjoyable read with a great multi layered plot line and is full of suspense, thrills and action … one of my best reads this year.’ Netgalley reader ‘Tony’s books are always absolute belters’ IAN RANKIN ‘As an action thriller this bears comparison with the work of Lee Child and David Baldacci, with fight scenes ranging from shootouts and unarmed combat to a helicopter attack.’ John Dugdale, The Sunday Times

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Book SynopsisKatie Maguire never thought Ireland's nuns would need her protection... In a nursing home on the outskirts of Cork, an elderly nun has been suffocated in her sleep. It looks like a mercy-killing – until another sister from the same convent is found floating in the Glashaboy river. The nuns were good women, doing God's work. Why would anyone want to kill them? But then a child's skull is unearthed in the garden of the nuns' convent, and DS Katie Maguire discovers a fifty-year-old secret that just might lead her to the killer... if the killer doesn't find her first.Trade ReviewMasterton is one of the most original and frightening story tellers * I Read Novels *An excellent book and deserved 5 stars * Bestselling Crime Thrillers *The author has a lot of story elements to juggle here, and he expertly keeps them all in the air. Known primarily for his many horror novels – he's a superstar in that genre – Masterton is also a talented mystery writer, and fans who haven't sampled the Maguire series should think about rectifying that sooner than later * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisKatie Maguire knows that in this part of Ireland, the past can never stay buried... In Blarney, Cork, an old millworker's cottage guards its secrets. In 1921, a mother, father and their two young children disappeared from this house. Now their mummified bodies have been discovered under the floorboards. As DS Katie Maguire investigates a ninety-five-year-old murder, the flames of old family rivalries flare up once more... and Katie is caught in the crossfire.Trade ReviewExcellent entertainment, with an explosive finale worthy of grand opera * Irish Independent *[Masterton] writes some of the best suspense novels being published today. If you haven't read his work, do yourself a favor and start today * For The Love of Books *An original and pacey thriller from a master storyteller * Crime Review *

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Book Synopsis'Creepy and packed with suspense and menace, it draws the reader into a community that has more than its fair share of skeletons to hide.' Daily MailThe phenomenal new thriller from the multi-million-copy bestselling author.__________Blackwood Bay. An ordinary place, home to ordinary people.It used to be a buzzing seaside destination. But now, ravaged by the effects of dwindling tourism and economic downturn, it's a ghost town - and the perfect place for film-maker Alex to shoot her new documentary. But the community is deeply suspicious of her intentions. After all, nothing exciting ever happens in Blackwood Bay - or does it?Blackwood Bay. An ordinary place, home to an extraordinary secret.__________READERS ARE GRIPPED BY FINAL CUT'Thrilling to the end, and will keep you guessing' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐'Full of twists, turns and great atmosphere' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐'A brilliantly crafted thriller' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING'Dark and twisty, and full of surprises and so smartly done' Joanna Cannon'I loved that behind this disturbing and clever plot there's a genuinely heartrending story.' Emma Curtis 'The master storyteller S J Watson is back with another clever psychological thriller' Woman & Home'An intriguing and unsettling new thriller' Fabulous'Watson adroitly [brings] the strands of his story together to create a disturbing journey to a shocking truth' The Observer'S J Watson has done it again. Even more compelling than Before I Go To Sleep' Lesley KaraTrade ReviewWatson adroitly [brings] the strands of his story together to create a disturbing journey to a shocking truth * The Observer *Creepy and packed with suspense and menace, it draws the reader into a community that has more than its fair share of skeletons to hide. * Daily Mail *Dark and twisty, and full of surprises and so smartly done. * Joanna Cannon *S J Watson has done it again. Even more compelling than Before I Go To Sleep * Lesley Kara *S J Watson, pacing his story with mesmerising expertise, keeps you so invested in the fates of his characters * Jake Kerridge, Sunday Express *

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Book Synopsis‘Brooding, blistering. Sirens is a remarkable literary thriller, perfect for fans of Ian Rankin and James Lee Burke’ AJ Finn, author of The Woman in the WindowWATERSTONES THRILLER OF THE MONTHI stopped going to work. I went missing. We still live in a world where you can disappear if you want to. Or even if you don't.Detective Aidan Waits is in trouble After a career-ending mistake, he’s forced into a nightmare undercover operation that his superiors don’t expect him to survive.Isabelle Rossiter has run away againWhen the teenage daughter of a prominent MP joins Zain Carver, the enigmatic criminal who Waits is investigating, everything changes.A single mother, missing for a decadeCarver is a mesmerising figure who lures young women into his orbit – young women who have a bad habit of disappearing. Soon Waits is cut loose by the police, stalked by an unseen killer and dangerously attracted to the wrong woman.How can he save the girl, when he can’t even save himself?*Reader reviews: 'It is an utterly brilliant debut novel; dark, gritty, menacing and meaningful.' *****'Compulsive reading, so well written that even the gruesome cruelty and sense of helplessness in a dark world seemed right.'***** 'Knox is always one-step ahead, deceiving the reader and creating a sexy, stylish world always with danger around every corner.' ******The bestselling debut from the winner of the Sky Arts Writer of the Year Award, the next big name in crime fiction - Joseph Knox.Trade ReviewKnox presents the city as pungently and uncompromisingly as Ian Rankin does Edinburgh * Guardian *A firecracker of a crime tale. His writing is taut, atmospheric and studded with eye-catching descriptions. An arresting new talent. * Metro *Razor-sharp urban noir – very special indeed. -- Lee ChildSirens is a powerhouse of noir. Joseph Knox owns Manchester and paints it in all its grimy colours. -- Val McDermidThrilling, breathless stuff * Observer *

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Book Synopsis________‘Gritty as hell. I loved it. A great urban cop thriller’ Ian Rankin As heard on BBC Radio 5 Live Phil Williams ShowFrom the bestselling author of Sirens, Detective Aidan Waits is on the hunt to find the identity of The Smiling Man.________A body has been found on the fourth floor of Manchester’s vast and empty Palace Hotel. The man is dead. And he is smiling. The tags have been removed from his clothes. His teeth have been replaced. Even his fingertips are not his own. Only a patch sewn into his trousers offers any information about him. Detective Aidan Waits and his unwilling partner, DI Sutcliffe, must piece together the scant clues to identify the stranger. But as they do, Aidan realises that a ghost from his past haunts the investigation. He soon recognises that to discover who the smiling man really is, he must first confront the scattered debris of his own life . . . ________'Talents such as Knox rarely emerge more than once in a generation. A crime fiction masterpiece' ***** Metro'Packing a punch from the very first page. You will love The Smiling Man' Jane Harper, author of The DryTrade ReviewIf you liked Sirens, you will love The Smiling Man. Gritty, noir, and packing a punch from the very first page. * Jane Harper, author of The Dry *Gritty as hell. I loved it! A great urban cop thriller -- Ian RankinSirens was one of the best books published last year and this intense, blackly comic follow-up is just as good. Joseph Knox has conjured up a sense of evil and corruption you can almost smell it. -- Jake Kerridge * Sunday Express *Imperfect as Aidan Waits is, the Manchester DC is the shining light in a world peopled by the worst kinds of bad people. This is Knox's second Waits book in what holds the promise of a classic series. * Sunday Times Crime Club *Talents such as Knox rarely emerge more than once in a generation. A crime fiction masterpiece * Metro *

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Book Synopsis'Intriguing ... an impressive debut' Shari Lapena, author of The Couple Next Door'It made me look at marriage in a different light' Jane Corry, author of My Husband's Wife'T. A. Cotterell masterfully conjures up the suffocating atmosphere that envelopes the couple as they navigate the mental trauma of maintaining a complex web of lies ... An intriguing, well-constructed and dramatic debut' TLSHow far would you go to keep a secret?Alice has a perfect life – a great job, happy kids, a wonderful husband. Until he goes missing one night; she receives a suspicious phone call; things don’t quite add up. Alice needs to know what’s going on. But when she uncovers the truth she faces a brutal choice. And how can she be sure it is the truth?Sometimes it’s better not to know.An FT ' Reader Pick' Books for Summer Reading.Trade ReviewAn intriguing and layered psychological thriller, What Alice Knew will hold you fast till its startling conclusion—and then you’ll want to talk about it to anyone who will listen. An impressive debut. * Shari Lapena, author of 'The Couple Next Door' *Intriguing and compelling – it made me look at marriage in a different light … * Jane Corry, Author of 'My Husband's Wife' *The suspense [is] beautifully sustained ... the writing is finely crafted. * Joanne Harris *A tale of crime and morals ... an intriguing crime mystery that blends elements of psychological suspense and marital drama ... If you read this thinking you know where the story is going to go, just you wait. What Alice Knew is a tale of what it means to be a woman, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister and an artist. But more than anything, it’s a story of humanity, in all it’s ugliness and beauty, and the things people are willing to do for the ones they love. * Culturefly *T. A. Cotterell masterfully conjures up the suffocating atmosphere that envelopes the couple as they navigate the mental trauma of maintaining a complex web of lies ... An intriguing, well-constructed and dramatic debut. -- Justin Warshaw * Times Literary Supplement *

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Book Synopsis'Chillingly believable and absolutely addictive. I read it in three days flat.' Incredible.' LISA JEWELL'Terrifying stuff, elegantly written' Financial TimesTess has always tried to be a good mother. Of course, there are things she wishes she'd done differently, but doesn't everyone feel that way?Then Emma, her youngest, is attacked on her way home from a party, plunging them into a living nightmare which only gets worse when the man responsible is set free. So when Tess sees the attacker in the street near their home, she is forced to take matters into her own hands. But blinded by her need to protect her daughter at any cost, might she end up putting her family in even greater danger?There's nothing she wouldn't do to make it right . . . but what if she makes it all worse?An unputdownable thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Heidi Perks and C L Taylor. ********WHAT AUTHORS ARE SAYING:'I read this straight through, only stopping to sleep. I absolutely loved it.' JANE FALLON'An engrossing read.' LESLEY KARA, bestselling author of The Rumour'A realistic and modern thriller, with a totally relatable premise and a heroine you can't help but root for.' GILLIAN MACALLISTER 'A chilling and completely gripping tale of obsession, shame and mother love.' JANE CASEYTrade ReviewI read this straight through, only stopping to sleep. I absolutely loved it. * Jane Fallon, author of FAKING FRIENDS *Tense, exciting and intelligent. * Gillian McAllister, author of EVERYTHING BUT THE TRUTH *Chillingly believable and absolutely addictive. I read it in three days flat. Tammy Cohen is absolutely at the top of her game. Incredible. * Lisa Jewell, author of THEN SHE WAS GONE *Tense plotting, razor-sharp writing, and some on-the-nose relatable characterization. Highly recommended. * Louise Candlish, author of OUR HOUSE *Tense plotting, razor-sharp writing, and some on-the-nose relatable characterization. Highly recommended. * Louise Candlish, author of OUR HOUSE *

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Book SynopsisAn unputdownable thriller, perfect for fans of THE HOLIDAY and BIG LITTLE LIES.'A sparkling, thrilling whodunit with a cast of extraordinarily well-realised characters and a setting that will take your breath away. I read it in twenty-four hours and was bereft when it ended' LISA JEWELL Till death do us part . . . Lucy has dreamt of her wedding day for as long as she can remember. And now the day is almost here. Her nearest and dearest are gathered on an idyllic Greek island and she just knows it's going to be perfect. It has to be.But even the best-laid plans can go horribly wrong. Why are her parents behaving so strangely? Why won't the rather odd lady from the airport stop hanging around? Who is the silent stranger her sister brought as a plus-1? And then they find the body. It's going to be a day to remember.***'A bride, a groom, a body: fantastically well-realised characters, tense, fast paced and surprising. I loved it' GILLIAN MCCALLISTER'Claustrophobic, creepy and page-turning, a surprising and original domestic noir thriller' ROSAMUND LUPTON'Brilliantly thrilling' JENNY COLGAN'Vibrant characters, pitch-perfect dialogue and trademark piercing observation all set against a stunning Grecian backdrop. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough' AMANDA JENNINGSTrade ReviewTammy Cohen has hit the ball out of the park with The Wedding Party, a sparkling, thrilling whodunit with a cast of extraordinarily well-realised characters and a setting that will take your breath away. I read it in twenty-four hours and was bereft when it ended. * Lisa Jewell *Claustrophobic, creepy and page-turning, a surprising and original domestic noir thriller. * Rosamund Lupton *Tammy Cohen is one of my favourite writers and The Wedding Party does not disappoint. Absolutely gripping. * Jane Fallon *A hugely entertaining read, The Wedding Party will transport you to an idyllic Greek island and a wedding that goes violently, compellingly wrong. The story is told with brio, humour and a wonderful sense of place. * Eve Chase, author of The Glass House *A Bride, a groom, a body: fantastically well-realised characters, tense, fast paced and surprising. I loved it. * Gillian McAllister *A bridezilla, an idyllic setting, a family with secrets and mysterious strangers - this book has everything. Pacey and full of surprises - loved it. * Catherine Cooper *Vibrant characters, pitch-perfect dialogue, and trademark piercing observation all set against a stunning Grecian backdrop. Another belter from Tammy Cohen. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. * Amanda Jennings *The Wedding Party positively fizzes with energy. Tammy Cohen just gets better and better. A genuine page turner with characters that leap off the page. * Emma Curtis *Brilliantly thrilling. * Jenny Colgan *Tammy Cohen is consistently darkly brilliant but she has surpassed herself with this tale of the wedding party from hell. So delicious to be a fly on the wall watching the perfect day descend into nightmare. The epitome of twisted summer reading. * Colette McBeth *Glamorous and gripping, this novel transported me from rainy London right onto a sun-drenched Greek beach. I loved it. * Cass Green *A perfect whodunnit * Bella *Brilliantly escapist * Best *A brilliant roller-coaster read will have you desperate to uncover its mysteries * Heat *A wickedly entertaining page-turner * Real People *

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'An exquisite tale of intrigue and dark secrets' LISA JEWELL'A gripping atmospheric read' RUTH WAREA GRIPPING HISTORICAL WHODUNNIT ON THE SEAS DRIPPING WTH HIGHSMITH-ESQUE GLAMOUR, INTRIGUE AND MURDER**********England, September 1939Former chambermaid Lily Shepherd boards a cruise liner for a new life in Australia and is plunged into a world of cocktails, jazz and glamorous friends. But as the sun beats down, long-hidden secrets begin to surface. As tension mounts in the enclosed space of a liner at sea, it's soon clear a killer is on board ...**********Readers are totally gripped by DANGEROUS CROSSING:***** 'Full of luxurious and decadent detail, bringing the five-week sea voyage from England to Australia bursting to life'*****'I enjoyed every single page. Rich, evocative and intriguing from start to finish'*****'Delicious, dark and completely compelling'Also try Rachel Rhys' other unputdownable historical mysteries: A FATAL INHERITANCE and ISLAND OF SECRETS****Coming soon by Rachel Rhys*** MURDER IN BLACK ROCK CASTLE

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Book SynopsisA STUNNING, ATMOSPHERIC NOVEL SET IN 1940S SOUTH OF FRANCE. YOUR PERFECT ESCAPIST READ. 'Perfect. Both gripping and dripping with glamour' RED MAGAZINE ONLINE __________ London 1948: Eve Forrester is trapped in a loveless marriage, in a gloomy house, in a grey suburb. Out of the blue, she receives a solicitor's letter. A wealthy stranger has left her a mystery inheritance but in order to find out more, she must travel to the glittering French Riviera. Eve discovers her legacy is an enchanting villa overlooking the Mediterranean sea and suddenly, life could not be more glamorous. But under the heat of the sun, all is not as it seems. Now, Eve must unlock the story behind her surprise bequest - before things spiral out of control... A Fatal Inheritance is an intoxicating story of glamour, intrigue and desire, set against the razzle-dazzle of the French Riviera. ______________________ 'Utterly tantalising' DINAH JEFFRIES 'GLORIOUS! Hugely enjoyable escapism. I enjoyed it ENORMOUSLY.' MARIAN KEYES What readers are saying about Fatal Inheritance: ***** 'One to savour and enjoy and be utterly immersed in.'***** 'This book captured my attention from the first page.'***** 'A wonderful story of beauty, mystery and finding yourself.' RACHEL RHYS' NEW NOVEL, ISLAND OF SECRETS IS AVAILABLE NOWTrade ReviewRachel Rhys’ atmospheric novel mixes glamour with tantalising intrigue – and a dark hint of dread * Daily Mail *An atmospheric, page-turner * DAILY MIRROR *Deliciously intoxicating * HEAT *Rachel Rhys should be on everyone’s summer reading list * CLARE MACKINTOSH *With a dash of Agatha Christie and a nod to Zelda Fitzgerald, Rachel Rhys' historical mystery is simply gorgeous. The late 1940s Cote d'Azur setting is a character in its own right - one that will have you yearning to sip a gin fizz while watching the sun sink into the Mediterranean * KATE RIORDAN *I am racing though this delicious thriller set on the French Riviera in 1948. Rachel Rhys really is a natural successor to Patricia Highsmith. Out July, put it on preorder now so you don’t forget. * SARRA MANNING *Deadly secrets, dazzling sunshine - utterly seductive. This book is a total joy * LUCY DAWSON *Atmospheric, totally absorbing and joyfully original * JANE FALLON *Utterly enthralling; Rachel Rhys brilliantly evokes the shabby glamour and bruised hearts of the post-war Riviera, where everyone has a secret to hide. I adored it. * JANE CASEY *I absolutely loved this book. All the intrigue of Agatha Christie with the intelligence of Barbara Vine in the most glamorous of settings. Rhys writes like an exotic dream! * LIZ NUGENT *Public service announcement; this book deserves to be massive. Can’t tell you how hard and fast I fell for it. A stunningly beautiful, page turning feast of a novel * COLETTE MCBETH *Who doesn't dream of a letter from a solicitor informing them of something that is in their interest? When Eve sets off for the South of France to discover what lies in wait, she finds filmstars, roues, drunken writers and a disaffected housekeeper - the perfect recipe for a glorious post-war thriller. A wonderful bouillabaisse of glamour, greed, revenge and romance as Eve fights to escape a loveless, bloodless marriage and find her true self. As chic as Chanel with a hint of Christie, A Fatal Inheritance will be on all the best-dressed sun-loungers this summer. * VERONICA HENRY *Rachel Rhys wove a spell over me with this book and whisked me away to the glitz of 1940s French Riviera. Sumptuous and hugely compelling, Rhys is a master of dialogue and observation and her characters crackle with life.Utter bliss. * AMANDA JENNINGS *Fizzing with glamour and secrets, I adored this gorgeous novel. An absolute stunner in every way, it had me captivated from beginning to end * JENNY ASHCROFT *I had to make myself slow down when reading this delicious, thrilling novel, because I didn’t want it to end. If Daphne Du Maurier had been writing about the Cote D’Azur instead of Cornwall, she couldn’t have done it better. Absolutely superb. * CASS GREEN *I raced through this and absolutely love it. What a cleverly woven plot, with intriguing characters and great period atmosphere! It made me want to drop everything and rush out to live there, in a house as similar to Villa la Perle as I can possibly find. * GILL PAUL *This atmospheric and intriguing novel will transport you to a glamorous – and deadly sun-baked world * Irish Times *TOP HOLIDAY READS - A Fatal Inheritance bears all the hallmarks of a golden age mystery as Eve is swept into a glittering world that sees her rubbing shoulders with Hollywood film stars and famous authors ... When events threaten to take a deadly turn, she must race against the clock to uncover the truth. * The Herald *An exquisite and shimmering read. I completely lost myself in Rhys’s lovingly evoked 1940s French Riviera and was gripped by the slow-burn mystery. An essential summer read! * LISA JEWELL *The perfect literary beach-read; both gripping and dripping with glamour. Rachel Rhys is a natural successor to Patricia Highsmith. * Red Online *SUMMER READING PICK -- Nina Pottell * PRIMA *JULY'S BEST NEW BOOKS: A dissatisfied wife receives a mysterious bequest, setting her off on a journey filled with excitement and danger * Stylist *Rachel Rhys really knows how to keep you guessing. As the mystery plays out she throws in a dash of romance to go along with the perfect evocation of the decadent time and place. You need this on your sun lounger this summer. * Sunday People *Amid the sun and glamour, there's skulduggery afoot in this perfect poolside book. * Red Magazine *With dreamlike descriptions of the Cote d'Azur and the dark underworld of those who live there, it is an addictive page-turner. The perfect summer holiday read. * The Lady *[A] high-octane, heart-pounding read. * Good Housekeeping *A transporting golden-age infused mystery caper * Sunday Times *This atmospheric page-turner is filled with intrigue, death-defying encounters, smooth talking charmers and even has a larger-than-life Hollywood movie star .. a fabulous summer read * Daily Express *

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Book Synopsis---------------------- 'So electrifyingly suspenseful and so brilliantly vivid, that I had to put it down to catch my breath at times - and I mean this as a compliment! There are so many beautiful details woven into this completely original concept exploring the visceral fears of motherhood, that any reader's heart will race, and then break, and then race again, from beginning to end.' Ashley AudrainLincoln is a good boy. At the age of four, he is curious, clever and well behaved. He does as his mum says and knows what the rules are.'The rules are different today. The rules are that we hide and do not let the man with the gun find us.'When an ordinary day at the zoo turns into a nightmare, Joan finds herself trapped with her beloved son. She must summon all her strength, find unexpected courage and protect Lincoln at all costs - even if it means crossing the line between right and wrong; between humanity and animal instinct.It's a line none of us would ever normally dream of crossing.But sometimes the rules are different.Previously published as Fierce Kingdom.'A page-turning, adrenaline-soaked read . . . an eloquent and meditative insight into motherhood and what it means, its many small trials and wonders.' Alison Flood, ObserverTrade ReviewI devoured it in one breathless sitting. Outstanding. * Clare Mackintosh, author of I LET YOU GO and I SEE YOU *Fierce Kingdom is a bold exploration of the ferocity of a mother’s love - riveting and beautiful, and all too real. You’ll find yourself asking, what would I do? It’s brilliant. * Shari Lapena, author of THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR *I was absolutely captivated by this book. So, so tense, but wonderfully written. The perfect book. * Gillian McAllister, author of EVERYTHING BUT THE TRUTH *It tore at every maternal fibre in my body. I couldn’t put it down. * Fiona Barton, author of THE WIDOW *Unbearably tense and yet beautifully written, Fierce Kingdom demands to be read in one sitting. After finishing, I pulled my loved ones a little closer. * Paula Daly, author of THE MISTAKE I MADE *

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‘I read The House Swap in one breathless sitting. Dark, smart, sexy, gripping, totally brilliant.’ Erin Kelly, author of He Said She Said'Sinister and compelling' Woman & Home'You'll be whipping through the pages' Stylist**********‘No one lives this way unless they want to hide something.’When Caroline and Francis receive an offer to house swap, they jump at the chance for a week away from home. After the difficulties of the past few years, they’ve worked hard to rebuild their marriage for their son’s sake; now they want to reconnect as a couple.On arrival, they find a house that is stark and sinister in its emptiness – it’s hard to imagine what kind of person lives here. Then, gradually, Caroline begins to uncover some signs of life – signs of her life. The flowers in the bathroom or the music in the CD player might seem innocent to her husband but to her they are anything but. It seems the person they have swapped with is someone she used to know; someone she’s desperate to leave in her past.But that person is now in her home – and they want to make sure she’ll never forget . . .**********‘This is very much a heart-thumping, read-in-one-sitting story, and absolutely delivers on its smart and original hook’ Heat‘A fantastic thriller – dead-on domestic noir, full of tension and surprises. I loved it.’ Lee Child‘An enthralling thriller that lives up to its chilling premise.’ Renee Knight, author of Disclaimer‘Rebecca Fleet has created a perfectly contained cast of credible characters in a story so intriguing that you will be guessing right up to the last page. And it’s beautifully written too. I loved this book.’ Liz Nugent, author of Lying in Wait

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Book Synopsis‘A mesmerising, beautifully-written domestic thriller that really stands out from the crowd. I flew through it.’ Mark Edwards, author of HERE TO STAY‘A domestic noir to race through’ Sunday Mirror'Enjoyably twisty, this is most impressive for its chilling insights into obsession and where it can lead' Observer ******Everyone brings baggage to a new relationship.When Alex met Natalie she changed his life. After the tragic death of his first wife, which left him a single parent to teenage daughter Jade, he’s determined to build a happy family.But his new-found happiness is shattered when the family home is gutted by fire and his loyalties are unexpectedly tested. Jade insists she saw a man in the house on the night of the fire; Natalie denies any knowledge of such an intruder.Alex is faced with an impossible choice: to believe his wife or his daughter? And as Natalie’s story unravels, Alex realises that his wife has a past he had no idea about, a past that might yet catch up with her.But this time, the past could be deadly . . . *******************‘Beautifully written and well-crafted. I read it in two days, though I would have read it in one if I could’ Sandie Jones, author of THE OTHER WOMAN'Engrossing, original and hugely enjoyable' Emma Curtis, author of THE NIGHT YOU LEFTPraise for Rebecca Fleet:‘This is very much a heart-thumping, read-in-one-sitting story, and absolutely delivers on its smart and original hook’ Heat‘A fantastic thriller – dead-on domestic noir, full of tension and surprises. I loved it.’ Lee Child‘An enthralling thriller that lives up to its chilling premise.’ Renee Knight, author of Disclaimer‘Rebecca Fleet has created a perfectly contained cast of credible characters in a story so intriguing that you will be guessing right up to the last page. And it’s beautifully written too. I loved this book.’ Liz Nugent, author of Lying in Wait'Dark, smart, sexy, gripping, totally brilliant.’ Erin Kelly, author of He Said She Said'Sinister and compelling' Woman & Home'You'll be whipping through the pages' StylistTrade ReviewBeautifully written and well-crafted, the characters of Natalie, Rachel, Sadie and Alex stayed with me long after I finished reading and I resented anything that stopped me from getting back to them. I read it in two days, though I would have read it in one if I could! * Sandie Jones, author of THE OTHER WOMAN *A mesmerising, beautifully-written domestic thriller that really stands out from the crowd. I flew through it. * Mark Edwards, author of FOLLOW YOU HOME *Engrossing, original and hugely enjoyable. * Emma Curtis, author of THE NIGHT YOU LEFT *A fabulous read. * Woman & Home *A menacing new thriller . . . Expect to be gripped! * That's Life! *

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Book Synopsis'Noon's storytelling is assured and compelling ... it's a belter' Guardian‘Constantly surprising’ SpectatorA viciously occult murder.A curious clue left on the body.The soundtrack to the murder still playing...It is 1981 and Detective Inspector Henry Hobbes is still reeling in the aftermath of the fire and fury of the Brixton riots. The battle lines of society - and the police force - are being redrawn on a daily basis. With the certainties of his life already sorely tested, a brutal murder will shake his beliefs to their very core once more. The manner of the death and its staged circumstances pose many questions to which there are no obvious answers. To track the murderer, Hobbes must cross boundaries into a subculture hidden beneath the everyday world he thought he knew. His investigation takes him into a twisted reality, which is both seductive and devastating, and asks him the one question he has been dreading: How far will he go in pursuit of the truth?Jeff Noon is the author of six acclaimed novels, Vurt, Pollen, Automated Alice, Nymphomation, Needle in the Groove and Falling Out of Cars, as well as two collections of short fictions, and is also the crime fiction reviewer for The Spectator. He lives in Brighton.Trade ReviewThe obsessive world of pop culture becomes a dangerous, dark, bewitching place in Noon’s utterly brilliant crime fiction debut. * William Shaw *Constantly surprising, the novel takes the form of the police procedural and pushes it in a variety of unexpected directions * Spectator *Noon's storytelling is assured and compelling ... it's a belter * Guardian *Slow Motion Ghosts is a triumph … an ingeniously-plotted and multi-layered tale * Independent *The enjoyably convoluted plot encompasses a heartfelt and moving examination of the other-worldly appeal of glam rock for nerds and outsiders. If you weren't poleaxed by Bowie's death, this very absorbing novel will help to explain why others were. * The Telegraph *

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Book Synopsis'A brilliantly paced, imaginative thriller with plenty of dark twists that had me turning the pages well into the night.' Heidi Perks, author of Now You See Her ___________________________________HOW CAN YOU SOLVE A CRIME IF YOU CAN'T REMEMBER THE CLUES? ___________________________________There is an explosion at a military ball. The casualties are rushed to hospital in eight ambulances, but only seven vehicles arrive. Captain Harry Peterson is missing.His girlfriend calls upon her old friend Dr Augusta Bloom to support the investigation. But no one can work out if there is a connection between the bomb and the disappearance.When Harry is eventually discovered three days later, they hope he holds the answers to their questions. But he can't remember a single thing.Without any clues, will Dr Bloom find herself lost in this puzzle too? ___________________________________'Another cracking read from Leona Deakin and my favourite so far! I was totally gripped by this complex and intriguing story.' Lauren North, author of The Perfect Betrayal ___________________________________Readers love the Dr Bloom Thrillers:'The ultimate suspense novel' *****'Gripping, mysterious, fast-paced' *****'An intelligent psychological thriller' *****'What a book! Completely mind-twisting' *****'Debut novels don't get better than this' *****'A smart and intricate cat-and-mouse tale' *****'Dark, riveting, twisting, cruel' ***** 'I could not put it down' *****Trade ReviewI was totally gripped by this complex and intriguing story. Another cracking read from Leona Deakin and my favourite so far! The tension between Bloom and Jameson created a whole new layer to this fascinating read. I gave up trying to figure out what was going on and just enjoyed the drip feed of clues and red herrings. Can't wait for the next one! * Lauren North, author of THE PERFECT BETRAYAL *A brilliantly paced, imaginative thriller with plenty of dark twists that had me turning the pages well into the night. * Heidi Perks, author of NOW YOU SEE HER *

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Book Synopsis---A GUARDIAN BEST SUMMER READ---'A very modern interrogation of violent fiction. Fiendishly readable' SARAH MOSS, GUARDIAN'Powerful and moving' ERIN KELLY, author of He Said/She Said______________When a young writer accepts a job at a university in the remote countryside, it's meant to be a fresh start. But when one of her students starts sending in chapters from his novel that blur the lines between fiction and reality, the professor recognises herself as the main character in his book - and he has written her a horrific fate.Will she be able to stop life imitating art before it's too late?At once a breathless battle-of-wits and a disarming exploration of sexual politics, The Body Lies is an essential book for our times.___________________'Outstanding' CLARE MACKINTOSH'A literary exploration of consent, entitlement and how narratives can be bent, misappropriated and wrested back. I loved it' SARAH VAUGHAN'A propulsive #MeToo thriller.' GUARDIAN'Gripping. The perfect marriage of risky literary fiction and full-on thriller' MARIA SEMPLE'Page-turning thriller and examination of how women's bodies are treated, in life and in fiction.' THE BOOKSELLER'A novelist with a gift for intimate and atmospheric storytelling' FINANCIAL TIMES'Baker's heroine is one of the most believable I've seen on the page in a long time...nuanced, non-linear, lifelike' TLS'Gripping and fast-paced' GOOD HOUSEKEEPINGTrade ReviewA propulsive #MeToo thriller investi­gating consent and male entitlement as well as the borders between truth and fiction. * Guardian *Build-up of tension is EXCELLENT * Daily Mail *Packs a powerful punch on every page * Red Magazine *Gripping ... with lots to say about sexual politics * Good Housekeeping *This superior thriller looks at how novels represent violence through the story of a creative writing teacher who finds herself trapped between the borders of life and fiction after recognising herself in a story written by one of her students * METRO *

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Book SynopsisA DEADLY VIRUS. QUARANTINE. A WORLD IN LOCKDOWN. THE THRILLER THAT PREDICTED IT ALL. THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER'Flies thrillingly, eerily close to reality' Guardian'This page-turner... is riveting and spookily anticipates much that has unfolded in reality' Sunday TimesA race-against-time thriller, as one man must find the origin and cure for a new killer virus that has brought the world to its knees.At an internment camp in Indonesia, forty-seven people are pronounced dead with a mysterious fever. When Dr Henry Parsons - microbiologist and epidemiologist - travels there on behalf of the World Health Organization to investigate, what he finds will soon have staggering repercussions across the globe.As international tensions rise and governments enforce unprecedented measures, Henry finds himself in a race against time to track the source and find a cure - before it's too late . . .***WHAT READERS ARE SAYING:'If you have a desire to really understand what is going on in the world right now, this is a novel that you cannot afford to miss!''Well-written and fast-paced. Most of all utterly, scarily, believable.'Trade ReviewAn eerily prescient novel about a devastating virus that begins in Asia before going global . . . A page-turner that has the earmarks of an instant bestseller. * New York Post *Eerily prescient. Too bad our leaders lack his foresight. * The New York Times *Featuring accounts of past plagues and pandemics, descriptions of pathogens and how they work, and dark notes about global warming, the book produces deep shudders . . . A disturbing, eerily timed novel. * Kirkus Reviews *A compelling read up to the last sentence. Wright has come up with a story worthy of Michael Crichton. In an eerily calm, matter-of-fact way, and backed by meticulous research, he imagines what the world would actually be like in the grip of a devastating new virus. * Richard Preston, author of THE HOT ZONE *This timely literary page-turner shows Wright is on a par with the best writers in the genre. * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisA heart-stopping delve into the twisted mind of a serial killer from the creator of the hit BBC drama Silent Witness. Perfect for fans of M.J. Arlidge and Angela Marsons. Stretching along the shelf, standing upright, were twelve wooden coffins. Nine were closed, and three open . . . with little dolls standing inside them . . .It was supposed to be the most special day of her life - until the unthinkable happened. Leslie Petersen is shot dead on her wedding day. With the bride's killer vanished without a trace, the investigation into the murder grinds to a halt before it's even begun. But then, the decomposing body of an unidentified homeless man is found in an old Cold War bunker, and DCI Mark Lapslie makes a bizarre discovery. Hidden near the body is a shrine full of miniature wooden coffins. Each coffin contains a little doll, all dressed differently. One of the dolls is dressed as a bride - could this be a link to Leslie's murder? And if so, who do the other dolls represent? Can Lapslie and his team stop the countdown of the 'dying dolls' before it's too late?Discover the other books in the DCI Mark Lapslie series: Core of Evil, Tooth and Claw, Scream and Flesh and Blood.Trade ReviewDCI Mark Lapslie is Nigel's finest creation . . . Immaculately constructed and beautifully observed, it cried out to be made for television * Daily Mail *Gripping . . . a very sadistic murderer * Daily Mirror *An excellent new detective * Daily Mail *One of the most memorable monsters in modern crime fiction * Daily Express *As repulsive and engaging a killer as any encountered in recent memory * Los Angeles Times *

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Book SynopsisA sadistic killer with a grudge against Rosie Gilmour is on the loose in Glasgow. Thomas Boag escaped from his first court appearance facing charges on a brutal murder. He's suspected in the disappearances of two other people. Now he's out for revenge.Rosie tries to distract herself with a new story: refugees trafficked into Glasgow and used as modern-day slaves - or worse. But this investigation soon leads her into dangerous territory as it takes her up against some of Glasgow's nastiest characters, and all the while, somewhere out there, Boag is laying his trap...'Another searingly-paced and all-too-believable look at the darker side of life from a quite brilliant writer' Crime ReviewTrade ReviewThrilling and compelling * Kimberley Chambers *Rosie Gilmour is a captivating character who drags the reader along at breakneck speed * Sunday Express *Provocative, shocking and utterly harrowing . . . grips like a vice * Daily Record *Another superb outing for Rosie Gilmour . . . a real nail-biter * Eurocrime *Another thrilling roller coaster read * Book Addict Shaun *

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Book SynopsisBlackmail, espionage and a mass murderer from his wartime past await Bernie Gunther on the French Riviera.'A brilliantly twisting tale of espionage and betrayal' Sunday TimesThe French Riviera, 1956. A world-weary Bernie Gunther is working under a false name as a hotel concierge. His attempts to keep his nose clean go horribly awry when a wartime acquaintance sucks him into a blackmail plot involving Somerset Maugham, one of the most famous British writers of the 20th century, and the notorious Cambridge Spies. All of them have dark pasts and plenty to hide - ideal candidates for a seasoned blackmailer.Trade ReviewA brilliantly twisting tale of espionage and betrayal * Sunday Times *A brilliantly twisting tale of espionage and betrayal * Sunday Times *The Other Side of Silence makes for a welcome break from the relentlessly grim atmosphere in which Bernie is accustomed to working * Washington Post *The Other Side of Silence makes for a welcome break from the relentlessly grim atmosphere in which Bernie is accustomed to working * Washington Post *Kerr's novels are modern classics * Simon Sebag Montefiore *Kerr's novels are modern classics * Simon Sebag Montefiore *Streets ahead of most other historical thrillers in its blend of wit, careful plotting and the kind of detail that brings the past to life - Sunday Times * Sunday Times *Streets ahead of most other historical thrillers in its blend of wit, careful plotting and the kind of detail that brings the past to life - Sunday Times * Sunday Times *Bernie Gunther is one of the more interesting and original private eyes in thriller fiction * The Times *Bernie Gunther is one of the more interesting and original private eyes in thriller fiction * The Times *His Raymond Chandleresque mysteries about a cynical Berlin cop reluctantly working for the Nazis are [Kerr's] masterpiece * The Sun *His Raymond Chandleresque mysteries about a cynical Berlin cop reluctantly working for the Nazis are [Kerr's] masterpiece * The Sun *As near perfection as makes no difference * Crime Fiction Lover *As near perfection as makes no difference * Crime Fiction Lover *Brilliantly done, of course * Weekend Sport *Brilliantly done, of course * Weekend Sport *Streets ahead of most other historical thrillers in its blend of wit, careful plotting and the kind of detail that brings the past to life * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisBoth investigations began on the same day. One seemed domestic, almost banal: a newborn is found in a bag outside a hospital and the woman who left it there is captured after a few hours. The second investigation appeared stranger and more intriguing: a Swiss tourist disappeared from a beach-hotel near Tel-Aviv, and a quick inquiry showed he had been using a fake passport and at least two names. Can he be a Mossad agent like his daughter claims? And is he in danger?Inspector Avraham Avraham, wishing to outgrow his usual cases of domestic violence, is indifferent to the one, and seduced by the other. Soon he understands he made a wrong choice, as both investigations spiral into a maze of violence and deception, leading to Israel's darkest secrets - and threatening to put Avraham in conflict with the most powerful men in the country, who technically don't even exist.Conviction is a successful synthesis of the emotionality of the previous Avraham cases and the fast-paced, highly suspenseful standalone novel, Three. Once again, Mishani delivers an almost unbearably tense story, both thrilling and emotionally involving. It is yet another triumph.Trade ReviewA book that unfolds with an eerie, deliberate power; one to savour. -- Martin WalkerAnother jewel in the crown of a brilliant series * Irish Independent *Mishani is the master of the deftly woven, complicated plot . . . Five stars * Tablet *

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Book Synopsis'For Vikings done right, come to Snorri Kristjansson' - Mark Lawrence'Truly entertaining' - Yrsa Sigurðardóttir'A dark mystery in a dark age brought vividly to life' - Robert FabbriEveryone loves a family reunion. 970: For the first time since Helga was adopted, her family will be gathered in one place. But her siblings are coming with darkness in their hearts. Everyone knows their father, the Viking warlord Unnthor Reginsson, has a great chest of gold hidden somewhere on his land - and each of his heirs is determined to find it. Then one morning Helga is awakened by screams. Blood has been shed. Kin has been slain. All the clues point to one person - who cannot possibly be the murderer, at least in Helga's eyes. But if she's going to save an innocent from the axe, she's got to solve the mystery - fast . . . Lies. Manipulation. Murder. There's nothing quite like family . . .Trade ReviewFor lovers of the Vikings TV series and Lindsey Davies alike. Helga Finnsdottir is the Flavia Alba of the Viking world. A dark mystery in a dark age brought vividly to life. I look forward to reading more * Robert Fabbri, author of the bestselling Vespasian series *For Vikings done right, come to Snorri Kristjansson * Mark Lawrence, bestselling author of Red Sister *Truly entertaining: a new and original Viking Noir voice * Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, author of the Thóra Gudmundsdóttir series *Kin is well paced and skilfully plotted, with a strong sense of everyday life at the time . . . I suspect this will not be the last Viking noir novel we see * The Times *An exciting new voice. With his Viking mystery, Snorri has created a new and interesting sub-genre of Icelandic noir * Ragnar Jonasson *Praise Odin, it's a terrific mystery! With Viking family values and a sharp-witted heroine, Snorri Kristjansson delivers a first-rate chronicle of intrigue and murder * Stephen Gallagher, bestselling author of Red, Red Robin *An entertaining and claustrophobic tale of familial tension and murder * SciFiNow *Timeless and universal . . . It will be interesting to see where Kristjansson's imagination takes his beguiling heroine next * Starburst *If you're a fan of crime fiction and enjoy a bit of added history, then I would suggest you look no further than Kin. When it comes to murder you want to be kept guessing right up till the last and Kin does that and more * The Eloquent Page *The start of an interesting crime series * Book Worm Mum *The remote setting of Viking village, the historical period and Helga's character are very refreshing * The Book Bag *If the combination of Vikings, mystery and murder sound good, then this is the book for you . . . If you're in a Scandi-noir mood, and willing to leap back through the centuries, then this is a book which will reward a reading; I, for one, look forward to the further adventures of Helga Finnsdottir * Sci-Fi and Fantasy Reviews *I was completely swept away . . . couldn't put it down . . . completely beguiling . . . I would definitely have no hesitation in recommending this and I look forward to seeing where Helga's adventures lead us to next * Lynn's Book Blog *A new style read that is gripping, enjoyable and easily accessible . . . I, for one, look forward to continuing Helga's adventures . . . Kin will appeal to fans of crime, thrillers, mystery and historical fiction and is well worth a read * The Tattooed Book Geek *Well written, descriptive and well-paced and is a very enjoyable read . . . Helga could become an insightful Dark Age sleuth. Well met! Helga Finnsdottir * Mature Times *This series is set to be a huge success not least because its leading lady is one of the smartest and funniest you will encounter * The Madwoman in the Attic *It has been a very long time since I finished a book in a day. But today everything came together, and it also helped that I could not put the book down . . . So if you like crime, read it. If you are a historical fan, read it. If you just like a good story (like we all do!) then well duh, this is a must read. Oh it was just so good! I truly enjoyed this one * Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell *I loved Kin and the ending just made my head spin with its cleverness and impact . . . I can't wait to read even more of Helga Finnsdottir's adventures * A Fantastical Librarian *As I read Kin, I kept thinking of friends and family who I wanted to share it with, fans of murder mysteries, fans of character driven stories, fans of historical fiction. This book would appeal to all of them . . . With such an interesting group of characters, I found myself returning to the book frequently. It was a fun read, and I'd recommend it * Blog in Basket *Viking Crime could very well be my new favourite crime! Plenty of twists and turns which really will keep you guessing. A great read for any crime or historical fiction fan that I would highly recommend * Kelly is Reading *It had everything I look for in a book . . . I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries / crime stories with a sprinkle of Norse mythology and who enjoys reading stories full of flawed characters * Unfiltered Tales *A fantastic introduction . . . An enjoyable read with a good sense of suspense and an intriguing backdrop * The Little Book Owl *Compelling reading * The Gin Book Club *An entertaining tale of family tensions and murder . . . Kristjansson writes vividly (you can feel the heat, smell blood, hear Norse Gods) and with passion * Nordic Noir Blog *A thumbs up from me for the familial conflict, and the generally entertaining conniving women and wonderfully Neanderthal male characters * Raven Crime Reads *This is an extremely well written murder mystery with echoes to Poirot and Sherlock but set within the Viking era . . . I am delighted that there will be another one * Fantasy Guide *A highly readable Viking family murder, with an engaging heroine and convincing historical detail. Recommended * Promoting Crime *Kin is a dark sumptuous, lively tale, which delves beneath the veneer of family blood ties. All families have secrets, betrayals that erupt into arguments and spite. Slights nurtured and fanned until they flare into feuds. Kristjansson weaves a riveting journey as the mystery unfurls with tantalising timing * The Book Bag *A highly readable Viking family murder, with an engaging heroine and convincing historical detail. Recommended * Promoting Crime *I greatly enjoyed the story's compelling blend of historical fiction and crime mystery . . . Helga Finnsdottir was a joy * The BiblioSanctum *

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Book SynopsisA murdered diplomat, planted evidence and a treacherous sister: once again, Helga had better find the real killer quickly, before heads start rolling - literally - in this brand-new Viking noir mystery. 'For Vikings done right, come to Snorri Kristjansson' Mark Lawrence, author of Red SisterHelga Finnsdottir left her foster parents, the old Viking chieftain Unnthor Reginson and his knowing wife Hildigunnur, to see the world, but she stopped in Uppsala when she fell in love. Now she's established herself as a local healer and herb-woman on the outskirts of town, and life is good - until King Eirik the Victorious calls a trade council and hairy northerners and southern Swedes alike descend on the town.Unfortunately for Helga, one delegation is headed by a very determined young woman who has her own agenda and will let nothing - and no one - get in her way. But the last time Helga saw Jorunn Unthorsdottir, her foster-sister was being cast out by their father for killing their brother Bjorn and trying to pin the blame on Helga. So perhaps it's no great surprise when one of the delegates is murdered, or that Helga's soon tagged as the lead suspect. It doesn't take her long to clear her own name, but that only leads suspicion to fall on to her man. Once again, Helga must solve a murder, and fast, before the innocent pays with his head.'Truly entertaining' Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, author of the Thóra Gudmundsdóttir series, on Kin'An exciting new voice. With his Viking mystery, Snorri has created a new and interesting sub-genre of Icelandic noir' Ragnar Jonasson on KinTrade ReviewA standout item . . . Top notch * Weekend Sport on Council *A dark mystery in a dark age brought vividly to life. For lovers of the Vikings TV series and Lindsey Davies alike. I look forward to more of Helga Finnsdottir * Robert Fabbri, author of the bestselling Vespasian series, on Kin *Truly entertaining: a new and original Nordic Noir voice * Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, author of the Thóra Gudmundsdóttir series, on Kin *Kristjansson has an evocative style that is easy to get caught up in. If you've not already discovered these books, and you enjoy your crime fiction historic in nature, I heartily recommend checking them out * The Eloquent Page on Council *An exciting new voice. With his Viking mystery, Snorri has created a new and interesting sub-genre of Icelandic noir * Ragnar Jonasson on Kin *For Vikings done right, come to Snorri Kristjansson * Mark Lawrence, bestselling author of Red Sister *Praise Odin, it's a terrific mystery! With Viking family values and a sharp-witted heroine, Snorri Kristjansson delivers a first-rate chronicle of intrigue and murder * Stephen Gallagher, bestselling author of Red, Red Robin on Kin *Council's depiction of Viking life, practices and Norse mythology is its strength . . . [it] brings something to the table which will appeal to readers of different genres. If you don't like historical fiction, you'll be swayed by the crime twist and if you don't like crime, the Viking setting may keep you reading. Either way it's a battle won * Crime Fiction Lover on Council *An entertaining and claustrophobic tale of familial tension and murder * SciFiNow on Kin *The start of an interesting crime series * Book Worm Mum on Kin *Timeless and universal . . . It will be interesting to see where Kristjansson's imagination takes his beguiling heroine next * Starburst on Kin *The remote setting of Viking village, the historical period and Helga's character are very refreshing * The Book Bag on Kin *If the combination of Vikings, mystery and murder sound good, then this is the book for you . . . If you're in a Scandi-noir mood, and willing to leap back through the centuries, then this is a book which will reward a reading; I, for one, look forward to the further adventures of Helga Finnsdottir * Sci-Fi and Fantasy Reviews on Kin *I was completely swept away . . . couldn't put it down . . . completely beguiling . . . I would definitely have no hesitation in recommending this and I look forward to seeing where Helga's adventures lead us to next * Lynn's Book Blog on Kin *This series is set to be a huge success not least because its leading lady is one of the smartest and funniest you will encounter * The Madwoman in the Attic on Kin *It had everything I look for in a book . . . I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries / crime stories with a sprinkle of Norse mythology and who enjoys reading stories full of flawed characters * Unfiltered Tales on Kin *Compelling reading * The Gin Book Club *A fantastic introduction . . . An enjoyable read with a good sense of suspense and an intriguing backdrop * The Little Book Owl on Kin *Compelling blend of historical fiction and crime mystery * Bibliosanctum on KIN *A highly readable Viking family murder, with an engaging heroine and convincing historical detail. Recommended * Promoting Crime on Kin *

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Book Synopsis'Chillingly good' Elizabeth Day'Her best book to date and that's really saying something' Marian Keyes'A powerfully atmospheric, darkly compelling mystery' Lucy Foley'A superior psychological thriller' Liz NugentNessa Crowley's murderer has been protected by silence for ten years.Until a team of documentary makers decide to find out the truth.On the day of Henry and Keelin Kinsella's wild party at their big house a violent storm engulfed the island of Inisrun, cutting it off from the mainland. When morning broke Nessa Crowley's lifeless body lay in the garden, her last breath silenced by the music and the thunder.The killer couldn't have escaped Inisrun, but no-one was charged with the murder. The mystery that surrounded the death of Nessa remained hidden. But the islanders knew who to blame for the crime that changed them forever. Ten years later a documentary crew arrives, there to lift the lid off the Kinsella's carefully constructed lives, determined to find evidence that will prove Henry's guilt and Keelin's complicity in the murder of beautiful Nessa.In this bold, brilliant, disturbing new novel Louise O'Neill shows that deadly secrets are devastating to those who hold them close.Trade ReviewThis superior psychological thriller...absolutely gripping, intriguing and superbly written...a compulsive read - Liz Nugent -- Liz NugentImagine Emily Bronte crossed with a Netflix true-crime documentary and with a dash of Big Little Lies thrown in. After the Silence is gripping, clever and beautifully written. O'Neill has a gimlet eye for the telling detail ...Chillingly good - Elizabeth Day -- Elizabeth DayElegant, assured, gripping and moving, it's her best book to date and that's really saying somethingThis is good. Really good. Dark and tragic and anger-inducing. Succession meets West Cork with a fire of feminist fury. * Harriet Tyce *Chilling and atmospheric, After the Silence is sharp and perceptively written, with a mystery at its heart that will keep you gripped. I think this is Louise's best book yet. -- Beth O'LearyA gripping new direction for Louise O'Neill but still with her distinctive powerful voice. I raced through it, guessing until the very - satisfying - end. -- Cecelia AhernDevastating, chilling and enviably accomplished... I haven't been so gripped by a book in years * Laura Jane Williams * A powerfully atmospheric, darkly compelling mystery characterised by Louise O'Neill's exquisite writing and powerful psychological insight. Seriously good. -- Lucy FoleyLouise O'Neill has done it again. . .her writing captivates me in a visceral way every time. After The Silence does what Louise does best: addictive and scalpel-sharp fiction that addresses important topics that should demand our attention, while feeling both deep discomfort and fire in our belly. -- Emma GannonLouise O'Neill's After the Silence is a devastatingly beautiful book full of secrets, mystery and a story so powerful and enthralling you cannot look away. An absolute masterpiece and one of my favourite books in the world! -- Nikita GillA clever, sleight of hand psychological thriller set on the small Irish island of Inisrun * Red *dark, haunting, almost claustrophobic read, but the writing is still both beautiful and lyrical * Fabulous *You'll be absorbed by this chilling tale of controlling and toxic relationships * Sunday Mirror *A subtle slow-burn, this evocative mystery spins into an intricate portrait of gas-lighting and sacrifice * heat *Dark, windswept, suspenseful and kept me on the edge of my seat. Bravo to a wonderful writer and wonderful woman -- Jessie BurtonThis multi-layered, sinister chiller is a real page-turner. * Best *The plot is intricate and intelligent, but the drama gets its real energy from the author's obvious anger about what men get away with, and why some women always pay the price. * Daily Mail *O'Neill has made her name as one of Ireland's foremost feminist writers, and this is a detailed examination of a toxic marriage as well as an absorbing mystery * Sunday Times *This is O'Neill at her best: splintered portraits of relationships so sharp you could cut yourself on them, deeply empathetic characterisation and a vivid exposure of the brutality of all forms of domestic abuse, including the ones that so often remain hidden in the shadows. A tour de force from a spectacular storyteller, it will have you gripped from the first page to the last, but it will stay with you long after that as well. O'Neill is one of our finest feminist writers and this is her best book yet. -- Laura BatesWith impeccable research into domestic violence on women, O'Neill conjures a disturbing and uncomfortable atmosphere, made darker by the remote island where the story is set * CultureFly *This compulsive novel tells a claustrophobic tale of violence, control and domestic abuse. * Sunday Express (S Mag) *The atmosphere of it is dream-like and it's completely compelling * Good Housekeeping *

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Book Synopsis'[A] lively, entertaining blend of murder mystery and supernatural adventure' GEORGE R.R. MARTINShould you find yourself in need of a discreet investigation, think of Jesperson and Lane . . .For several years Miss Lane was companion, collaborator and friend to the lady known to the Psychical Society only as Miss X - until she discovered that Miss X was actually a fraud. Now Miss Lane works with Mr Jasper Jesperson as a consulting detective, but the cases are not as plentiful as they might be and money is getting tight - until a wife's concern for her husband's nocturnal ramblings piques their interest, and mediums begin to disappear all over London.'A gloriously entertaining mystery story full of twists and turns . . . Tuttle executes it with a delicate touch and great elan' ASTOUNDING YARNSThere is only one team with the imagination and intelligence to uncover the nefarious purpose behind the vanished psychics and the somnambulist's wanderings.Jesperson and Lane: at your service.Trade ReviewTuttle does a lovely job of putting us back in the foggy streets of Victorian London in this lively, entertaining blend of murder mystery and supernatural adventure. Arthur Conan Doyle would have approved * GEORGE R.R. MARTIN, bestselling author of The Game of Thrones *Lisa Tuttle has been writing remarkable, chilling short stories and powerful, haunting novels for many years now, and doing it so easily and so well that one almost takes it, and her, for granted * Neil Gaiman on Lisa Tuttle *A wonderful mystical journey through the darkened rooms of Victorian séances and stagecraft - beautifully written and researched. I absolutely loved it * ALISON LITTLEWOOD, author of Mistletoe and Richard & Judy bestseller A Cold Season on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A fitting tale of intrigue that makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read . . . thrilling and entertaining story. 9/10 * STARBURST MAGAZINE on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Both comical and exciting, this is a delight of a read, and when a new case emerges on the horizon of the final page, it makes you want to urge the author to write the duo's second set of adventures faster so we can feast on it as soon as possible * Maxim Jakubowski, Love Reading *Lisa Tuttle has created a most engaging detective duo in Jasper Jesperson and Miss Lane ... an intriguing and thoroughly enjoyable mystery * Mark Douglas Home, author of The Sea Detective and The Woman Who Walked Into The Sea *Tuttle's delivery is impeccable and "The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief" is an enjoyable romp that's a continuous pleasure to read . . . As an opening to the series "The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief" works remarkably well so it'll be interesting seeing where she takes the series next. * UPCOMING4.ME on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *[Lisa Tuttle] has a prize-winning knack of doing what a lot of fantasy writers can only dream of: making the impossible seem everyday, and writing legend in such a way that it seems like a very present and nerve-tingling possibility * SCOTS MAGAZINE on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *An easy read, with the plot cracking along at a terrific pace . . . a fun dance through spiritualism and Victoriana with a lot of heart and soul * Book Geek *An enjoyable first mystery in the Jesperson and Lane series. Well plotted and written * MURDER, MYSTERY & MORE on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *I really did enjoy the characters of Lane and Jesperson - they are worth getting to know . . . I do hope that there is more to come about this pair of investigators * BOOKS AND MORE BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Zips along, with peril, a real, melodramatic villain - you can almost here the moustache twirling and hear his laughter - a truly evil plot and a dramatic denouement . . . easily give[s] Holmes and Watson a run for their money * BLUE BOOK BALLOON on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The mystery was intriguing, the inclusion of psychic powers surprising, and the characters absolutely lovely. I found myself slowing down when reading this one, just so it would last a little longer. * HIDING BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The book is beautifully written [and] very well researched. If you like a good tale, well told, or if you like a strong female protagonist, or if you like to get in on the ground floor of what is set to be one of the most entertaining detective series of the decade ... read this book * JEANETTE GREAVES on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A well-written, entertaining mystery and solid series opener. I look forward to reading the next book and have a feeling this series will get better with every instalment * ART AND SOUL on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A gloriously entertaining mystery story full of twists and turns . . . Tuttle executes it with a delicate touch and great elan * ASTOUNDING YARNS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A great story . . . Two great main characters and a lovely atmosphere throughout the book * BLODEUEDD on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Smart and entertaining fiction that has fun with the touchstones of Victorian literature - Wilkie Collins and Arthur Conan Doyle are both name-checked, and have clearly influenced Tuttle's atmosphere and characterisation- while also exploring, in a light-hearted, light-touch way, what lies behind the curtain. * SFX on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A fantastic first instalment to what I hope will be a long running series . . . Miss Lane is a delight; independent, resourceful and free thinking and Jesperson and his mother are fantastically drawn . . . This is the first book I've read by Lisa Tuttle but it certainly won't be the last * LISA READS BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *If you like detective stories, then this is a wonderful addition to not only that genre but with the twists and turns hinting at the supernatural as well * FLICKERING MYTH on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The Somnambulist And The Psychic Thief is a great read and definitely a series worth pursuing. It looks like it will make a good regular read alongside my other favourite sleuths * SF CROWSNEST on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The story zips along in entertaining and enjoyable way, and it is very well written. The characters have previously appeared in some of Lisa Tuttle's shorter fiction, and the novel seems set up for a series. I certainly hope so * HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A fantastic blend of Victorian-era detective fiction and the (possibly) supernatural * SCIFI NOW on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Excellent! * JULIET E. McKENNA, No. 1 bestselling author of The Green Man's Heir on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A solid beginning to a new series . . . If you enjoy the Independent Victorian Lady Detective genre (I know I do) then this one is worth adding to your Borrowbox library * KINGSTON LIBRARIES on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A delightful pairing of Sherlockian mystery and Victorian occult tale . . . Lisa Tuttle is a fantastic writer whose nuanced characters and flawless prose combine with a mastery of genre conventions that allow her to subvert them brilliantly * SEBASTIAN DE CASTELL, bestselling author of The Greatcoats series, Sebastian de Castell, author of The Greatcoats series *Tuttle is as skilled in prose as she is in characterisation. Spending time with Mr Jesperson and Miss Lane, and the rest of the characters, was a delight. Their relationship - a bit of a Mulder and Scully - is expertly drawn. The prose was an easy read, with the plot cracking along at a terrific pace * THE FORGOTTEN GEEK on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Tuttle's powerful prose sparkles and leaps off the page - she perfectly captures the repressed nature of Victorian times * BRITISH FANTASY SOCIETY on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief was a great start to series . . . I had fun, and it was great to get back to Victorian-era detecting. * LYNN’S BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The writing has an effortless-seeming clarity that makes the pages fly by. The author manages the disparate elements of the plot like an expert juggler . . . I loved it so much that I let out a happy little yip and hit request immediately when I saw its sequel pop up * STEWARTRY on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *It kept me hooked. This series definitely has potential and with the dramatic way it ended, I will be picking up the next in the series * UNDER THE COVERS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The characters are engaging . . . the atmosphere and setting up are the dynamics that are the focus of this book, and the characterisations really shine * GIRL WHO READS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *This book is now in the running for my "title of the year" award, currently neck and neck with Time Travelling with a Hamster! The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief is a well-written, entertaining mystery and solid series opener. I have a feeling this series will get better with every instalment * CLAIRE HUSTON on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A stylish, distinctive storyteller * WASHINGTON POST BOOK WORLD on Lisa Tuttle *This John W. Campbell Award-winning author remains one of fantasy's best * PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY on Lisa Tuttle *Her ability as a storyteller is equalled only by her skill in portraying her characters with a few, precise words * SF SITE on Lisa Tuttle *

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Book SynopsisAn eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth? Do people who have sinned deserve to be punished? One killer thinks so and that''s why there are bodies being found in strange situations. Can Taliesin MacLeavy find the killer before more people die?

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Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Authors’ Club Best First Novel Award 2018How to be a Kosovan Bride opens up something entirely new to the reader: the history, culture and stories of one of the newest countries in the world. It weaves together Albanian folktale, stories of Kosovan experience of the war in 1999 and a look into the lives of modern-day Kosovan women. The dark undercurrent of Albanian blood feuds underpins a story about the impact of war and the way that new life can emerge from darkness.It is characterised by striking imagery and daring form.Trade Review★★★★★ Hamill's writing is nothing short of extraordinary. She writes in a style scarcely encountered in fiction, addressing the reader as ‘you’ throughout the novel, and thus managing to make us feel unnerved that we have not done more to liberate women like the Returned Girl and the Kosovan Wife. This guilt adds to the sympathy we already feel for the protagonists, with their lack of names and characteristics failing to stop us connecting with them. The stories of the recent war are equally harrowing, and once again, the lack of the specific names of those they feature only serves to make them more moving, as we realise they could have been experienced by almost anyone who suffered through the conflict. -- Em Richardson * The Bookbag *How To Be A Kosovan Bride is a good look at a country in conflict and the people on the wrong side of it, as well as a country still coming into its own. It is hard-hitting and very political but the humour and shortness of it balances this out. * The Worm Hole *This subtle exploration of the complexities of life in newly liberated Kosovo is presented in nuanced, engaging prose. A modern history told through its people. An intelligent, rewarding story. * neverimitate *The book has the rhythm of a set of fairy tales, and actually also incorporates a traditional fairy tale within it. It’s sparse, and effectively repetitive delivery is both utterly compelling and powerful. It also made me realise that despite knowing some Albanian refugees back around 2000, I know woefully little about this part of recent history. Altogether a remarkable book. * Desperate Reader *This brief work (published by Norfolk independent Salt) is presented in very short chapters, written in hypnotically lyrical prose and from a number of perspectives, each with an intensity and sense of completeness which meant that I could only digest a couple at a time. The novel bears witness to the scars of brutal conflict and the collision between tradition and new and outside influences, particularly as they affect the lives of women. In the latter respect, the questions it raises are relevant far beyond Kosovo, the experiences of both the Kosovan Bride and the Returned Girl evoking empathy and recognition. The author’s connection with the place and its culture come through vividly and there is an admirable boldness and subtlety to this often traumatic but ultimately life-affirming story, in which little is spelled out. -- Isabel Costello * The Literary Sofa *I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. It is unlike anything I have read before. it introduced me to a country and a people in subtle but complicated ways. It drew me in from the first page but the short interwoven stories gave me breathing and thinking space. The anonymous characters become immediately intriguing and relatable. -- Rebecca Cooper * Goodreads *

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Book SynopsisA Danish filmmaker, under the apprenticeship of three Papua New Guinean master sailors, set off from Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea, on the 30th of August 2016 on a world-record circumnavigation of the island of New Guinea in a traditional sailing canoe called the Tawali Pasana. Over the course of 13 months and 21 days - and some 6300 km of high adventure - what became known as ‘the fellowship of the Tawali Pasana' created a modern-day odyssey (on a shoestring budget) battling relentless monsoon winds, dangerous seas, pirates and crocodiles. Prevailing against all the odds, the voyage generated enormous media coverage and inspired the young people of New Guinea to celebrate their extraordinary seafaring culture. 'Sailing a traditional outrigger canoe around the vast island of New Guinea is a journey through time, across myriad cultures upon the far-flung seas of Arafura, Seram, Bismarck, and the Pacific Ocean. Thor's voyage shows that, in the 21st Century, there are still great adventures!' Peter Hillary 'The very first circumnavigation of New Guinea in a traditional sailing canoe again illustrates, as my father auspiciously once said, 'To travel, to experience and learn ... that is to live.' Norbu Tenzing Norgay 'Thor's adventure is an encouragement to anyone who - dares to do.' Sarah Outen

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE CWA INTERNATIONAL DAGGER 2018When two Parisian women are murdered in their homes, the police suspect young accordionist Clément Vauquer. As he was seen outside both of the apartments in question, it seems like an open-and-shut case.Desperate for a chance to prove his innocence, Clément disappears. He seeks refuge with old Marthe, the only mother figure he has ever known, who calls in ex-special investigator Louis Kehlweiler.Louis is soon faced with his most complex case yet and he calls on some unconventional friends to help him. He must show that Clément is not responsible and solve a fiendish riddle to find the killer...Trade ReviewIt’s all rather delightfully bonkers, a playful and subversively unorthodox take on the private eye novel by a master of her craft -- Declan Burke * Irish Times *A real wonder of a book, in all senses of the word * Waterford Today *The book is as beguiling as previous entries in the Three Evangelists series, with the pleasure here coming from the comic interplay between the unconventional sleuths -- Barry Forshaw * Guardian *Vargas is the poet of modern French crime writing, her work has a slightly ethereal feel… this is solid gold Euro-noir crime fiction. A high calibre literary thriller that entertains with aplomb… The Accordionist is cleverly plotted, the intensity builds and what starts out as intriguing becomes more involving as the reader is gripped by the fundamental question, ‘who did it?’ More than other crime novels, you have to surrender to Vargas’s vision of the world, one that you will not instantly recognise but may come to love… The Accordionist satisfies the most ardent noir strictures; slightly subversive, strong plotting, droll humour, inventive twists and elegant prose. This is a real treat for lovers of intelligent crime fiction -- Paul Burke * Nudge *Shockingly original, disturbingly eccentric and massively involving, Vargas books are a step beyond ordinary crime fiction and take you on a startling journey… Their quirky interplay and unconventional way of thinking…makes for a droll, entertaining read. Translator Sián Reynolds has a knack of rendering their cadences and ticks into readable English * Connexion *

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Book SynopsisSHE'D DO ANYTHING FOR HER HUSBAND.Julie has the perfect lifeA kind boyfriend, loving parents and good grades. She has everything ahead of her.Cora’s life is a nightmareA psychopath for a husband, a violent father and a terrible secret. There’s no way out.But one night, their worlds collideLocked in an isolated house together, they must work out what has happened – and who they can trust to set them free. From the bestselling author of The Never List, this is a breath-taking new thriller about the wife of a kidnapper and her relationship with his last victim.Praise for Koethi Zan:'Psychological thriller writing at its best' Jeffery Deaver 'Should be on every mystery reader's must-read list' Tess Gerritsen

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