Historical crime and mysteries

Book Synopsis''The emperor''s mistress had been murdered, and the world had been taken hold of and turned upon its head'' Prague, 1599. Christian Stern, a young doctor, has just arrived in the city. On his first evening, he finds a young woman''s body half-buried in the snow.The dead woman is none other than the emperor''s mistress, and there''s no shortage of suspects. Stern is employed by the emperor himself to investigate the murder. In the search to find the culprit, Stern finds himself drawn into the shadowy world of the emperor''s court - unspoken affairs, letters written in code, and bitter rivalries. But there''s no turning back now...Trade ReviewBlack is a master of high-class crime fiction, literary noir in the tradition of Georges Simenon and Raymond Chandler * Guardian *An atmospheric evocation of a city frozen by winter and riddled with intrigue * Daily Mail *This is an intriguing excursion into different historical territory * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisCosy crime historical mysteries featuring Flavia de Luce - the teenage amateur sleuth you'll never forget. Perfect for fans of Midsomer Murders and Agatha Christie's Miss Marple.Trade ReviewPraise for the cosy crime Flavia de Luce Mysteries - perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Midsomer Murders: The Flavia de Luce novels are now a cult favourite * Mail on Sunday *Certain to become a national treasure * Daily Mail *Delightfully entertaining * Guardian *Flavia is enchanting * New York Times *A breath of fresh air to the world of period-piece sleuthing * Independent *Flavia is mercilessly addictive * Daily Telegraph *A clever, witty and totally gripping read with lots of surprises * Essentials *At once precocious and endearing. Flavia is a marvellous character. Quirkily appealing, this is definitely a crime novel with a difference * Choice *It's like entering the lost world of the Mitford sisters where the girls are allowed to run completely wild * Crime Squad *Hilarious, eccentric and mischievous * Deadly Pleasures *Engaging, entertaining, bright and breezy; and above all, great fun! * Good Book Guide *The intricate plot unfolds neatly against a charming period backdrop of 1950s England, while the precocious but indomitable Flavia is so original a character that the book is a joy to read. * GOOD BOOK GUIDE *

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Book SynopsisBook 1 in the gripping Oswald de Lacy series, which can be read as a standalone, from ''the medieval CJ Sansom'' (Jeffery Deaver)England, 1350: the Black Death has changed the country forever, taking master and servant alike. Young Oswald de Lacey was never meant to be Lord of Somershill Manor, but when his father and older brothers die of the Plague, he must return home from the monastery and assume responsibility for an estate ravaged by pestilence. Almost immediately Oswald is confronted with the vicious murder of a young woman, Alison Starvecrow. The village priest claims it is the work of demonic dog-headed men, a theory Oswald rejects as nonsense. But proving this - by finding the real killer - only leads Oswald deeper into a maze of political intrigue, family secrets and violent strife. And then the body of another girl is found...''Sykes has really reset the bar for medieval mysteries'' MedievalistsTrade ReviewThe medieval CJ Sansom -- Jeffery DeaverSykes's damp, depopulated, miasmic Middle Ages is well evoked, making this an impressive debut with at least one sequel on the way. * The Herald, Scotland *A novel full of suspense and intrigue that will have you gripped. * Best magazine *There's a nice, cliché-free sharpness to Sykes' writing . . . that suggests a medieval Raymond Chandler at work, and there are no phony celebrations of the peasantry or earth-mothers thrusting herbal concoctions down grateful throats. Plenty of action and interesting characters, without intervention of the libertarian modern conscience that so often wrecks the medieval historical novel. * Independent *PLAGUE LAND is a fascinating historical crime novel about a world turned upside down, inhabited by a rich cast of characters. A terrific debut and a wonderful start to a brand-new series. -- Antonia Hodgson, author of THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEASykes has really reset the bar for medieval mysteries . . . every clue brings with it unexpected twists and turns. When you think you know who the killer is, you're slapped with yet another surprise. * Medievalists *Sykes's debut provides everything a reader would want in a historical mystery: a gripping plot, vivid language, living and breathing characters, and an immersive depiction of the past. * Publisher's Weekly *

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Book SynopsisThe explosive new Cotton Malone thriller by the international bestseller Steve Berry.Trade ReviewBerry raises this genre's stakes. * New York Times *I love this guy. -- Lee ChildAs always with Steve Berry, you're educated about significant things while your knuckles are turning white and the pages are flying by. -- David BaldacciA former KGB agent heading to Washington in the run-up to a new president's inauguration ... The chunks of secret history (also featuring America's past plans to invade Canada) are fascinating. * The Sunday Times *Each of Steve Berry's hugely successful thrillers ... have really fascinating aspects of arcane American history at their heart ... The frenetic action ranges from deepest Siberia to Washington DC as Malone tries to second-guess one of his most dangerous opponents ever. Cerebral derring-do adventure at its best. * Irish Independent *

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Book SynopsisAfter the excitement of recent adventures (as related in Pride and Prescience and Suspense and Sensibility), Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy retire to the peace and quiet of Pemberley as they await the birth of their first child. Such tranquility, however, cannot last......

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Book SynopsisSister Fidelma returns in THE HOUSE OF DEATH, the thirty-second Celtic mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE SHAPESHIFTER''S LAIR, BLOOD IN EDEN, and BLOODMOON. If you love Ellis Peters, you''ll be gripped by THE HOUSE OF DEATH and the Sister Fidelma series.Ireland. AD 672. The Feast of Beltaine is approaching and the seven senior princes of the kingdom of Muman are gathering at Cashel to discuss King Colgú''s policies. Just days before the council meets, Brother Conchobhar, the keeper of the sacred sword, is found murdered.Sister Fidelma and her brother Colgú fear that the killer had been trying to steal the sword that symbolises the King''s authority to rule. And as rumours begin to spread of an attempt to overthrow Colgú, news reaches Cashel that a plague ship has landed at a nearby port, bringing the deadly pestilence to its shores. Amid fear and panic, Fidelma, Eadulf and Enda must work together to catch a killer

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Book SynopsisIt is the autumn of 1910, and for fifteen long years Sherlock Holmes and Dr John Watson have battled R'lluhloig, the Hidden Mind that was once Professor James Moriarty. Europe is creeping inexorably towards war, and a more cosmic conflict is nearing its zenith, as in a single night all the most eminent members of the Diogenes Club die horribly, seemingly by their own hands. Holmes suspects it is the handiwork of a German spy working for R'lluhloig, but his search for vengeance costs an old friend his life. The companions retreat to Holmes's farm on the Sussex Downs, and it is not long before a client comes calling. Three young women have disappeared from the nearby town of Newford, and the locals have no doubt who is responsible. For legend has it that strange amphibious creatures dwell in a city on the seabed, coming ashore every few centuries to take fresh captives. As Holmes and Watson seek out the terrifying interlopers, the scene is set for the final battle that will bring them face to face with the Sussex Sea-Devils, and perhaps with Cthulhu himself...Trade Review“Certainly in contention for the year’s best read” - Borg.com “A truly literary work combining a smart Holmesian adventure and the dark mind of H.P. Lovecraft” - Borg.com

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Book SynopsisNew York Times bestselling author James Lovegrove's continues the story of Sherlock Holmes and The Hound of the Baskervilles, as five years later, another monstrous creature stalks across Dartmoor... 1894. The monstrous Hound of the Baskervilles has been dead for five years, along with its no less monstrous owner, the naturalist Jack Stapleton. Sir Henry Baskerville is living contentedly at Baskerville Hall with his new wife Audrey and their three-year-old son Harry. Until, that is, Audrey's lifeless body is found on the moors, drained of blood. It would appear some fiendish creature is once more at large on Dartmoor and has, like its predecessor, targeted the unfortunate Baskerville family. Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson are summoned to Sir Henry's aid, and our heroes must face a marauding beast that is the very stuff of nightmares. It seems that Stapleton may not have perished in the Great Grimpen Mire after all, as Holmes believed, and is hell-bent on revenge...Trade ReviewThis artful inversion of the structure of Conan Doyle's novel will please Sherlockians -Publishers Weekly The latest pastiche by the author of Sherlock Holmes: The Devil's Dust is a clever follow-up to The Hound of the Baskervilles. The language, characters, and pacing is accurate enough to satisfy even hard-core Holmes fans. -Library Journal James Lovegrove has a nice grasp of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's writing style, and it is easy for readers to fall into this tale and become consumed by it. - BookReporter "A wonderful addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon, extrapolating cleverly from the original oeuvre to present something fresh and absorbing for the modern reader" - Criminal Element "Packed with familiar faces and places but with a fresh twist, this is a novel perfectly suited to classic Holmes fans" - The Crime Review "Lovegrove has crafted a true page-turner... The novel reads as a classic Sherlock Holmes tale yet has a subtle modern flare to it" - Fangirl Nation "Lovegrove has a great voice for Sherlock Holmes" - Girl Who Reads "Entertaining and foreboding" - Reviewing the Evidence "Mystery excellence that should be on everybody's reading list" - RisingShadow

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Book SynopsisCity of Vengeance is an explosive debut novel by D. V. Bishop set in Renaissance Florence, the first in a historical thriller series which continues with The Darkest Sin, winner of the CWA Historical Dagger Award 2023.'He is fast becoming a serious rival to C. J. Sansom and S. J. Parris' – Historical Novel SocietyFlorence. Winter, 1536. A prominent Jewish moneylender is murdered in his home, a death with wide implications in a city powered by immense wealth.Cesare Aldo, a former soldier and now an officer of the Renaissance city’s most feared criminal court, is given four days to solve the murder: catch the killer before the feast of Epiphany – or suffer the consequences.During his investigations Aldo uncovers a plot to overthrow the volatile ruler of Florence, Alessandro de’ Medici. If the Duke falls, it will endanger the whole city. But a rival officer of the court is determined to expose details about Aldo’s private life that could lead to his ruin. Can Aldo stop the conspiracy before anyone else dies, or will his own secrets destroy him first?'A first-class historical thriller . . . Bishop’s spirited and richly detailed story is a tour-de-force' – David Baldacci'An impressive and immersive debut set in a beautifully realized sixteenth-century Florence' – Antonia Hodgson, author of The Devil in Marshalsea'Richly atmospheric . . . transports you to another time and place' – Ambrose Parry, author of The Way of All FleshTrade ReviewAn impressive and immersive debut set in a beautifully realized sixteenth-century Florence. Investigator Cesare Aldo is a fascinating and charismatic protagonist. Highly recommended -- Antonia Hodgson, author of A Death at Fountains AbbeyA first-class historical thriller with echoes of The Name of the Rose . . . a tour-de-force and clearly demonstrates the sixteenth century was as full of thrills and mysteries as the twenty-first, perhaps even a shade more -- David Baldacci, author of the Amos Decker seriesRichly atmospheric . . . transports you to another time and place -- Ambrose Parry, author of The Way of All FleshSo fluid and fluent, the pages almost turn themselves . . . Aldo is a great creation, resourceful, driven and forced to hide who he really is, but nevertheless is compelled to find justice for those who deserve it -- James Oswald, bestselling author of the Inspector McLean seriesCross-dressing, torture, oodles of violence — this pungent example of historical noir has the lot * The Times *Brings to life the 16th century Italian city, from the rankest taverns in its darkest alleys to the corridors of power showing a city of art and literature that is also riddled with corruption, anti-Semitism and violence * Evening Standard *Written with a finesse and authenticity which augurs well for a series with all the hallmarks of historical fiction masters like CJ Sansom and Ken Follett, City of Vengeance delivers a trip to Florence that you won’t forget! * Lancashire Evening Post *A complex, intriguing plot which weaves its way through the treacherous streets of sixteenth century Florence, encountering danger at every dark corner -- Sarah Maine, author of The House Between TidesIn Cesare Aldo, Bishop has created a character with the cunning, bravery and balls of steel to take on the twisty, toxic politics of the Medicis with panache. I can't wait for his next outing -- Alison Belsham, author of The Tattoo ThiefThis atmospheric murder mystery is packed with political intrigue and questionable morality. Secrets and conspiracies abound, danger is ever present and tension rises within the complex plotting * Choice *Rich in period detail - a compelling journey into Florence’s dark past -- Philip Gwynne Jones, author of the Nathan Sutherland Venetian mysteriesCompelling and assured. Does not miss a step through the dark intrigues of sixteenth century Florence, but convinces to the last. Aldo is a man as fitting for our times as for the bloody streets he takes us to. And D. V. Bishop makes it all seem effortless -- Shirley McKayDramatic and compelling, a great example of quality historical crime fiction . . . But the crowning glory of the book has to be the character of Cesare Aldo: bold, disquieting and complex; beautifully crafted with a deep and sensitive understanding of human frailty. An exciting, engaging story, masterfully told -- Laura Carlin, author of The Wicked ComethThis dramatic and compelling book, with the larger than life, complex, charismatic and enduring and towering figure of Aldo holding it all together, is for all who enjoy well-written and enthralling historical mysteries * Crime Review *D. V. Bishop has hit the ground running by introducing us to Cesare Aldo, a “hero” we can all root for as he continues to seek justice in this beautiful, rich but corrupt medieval city . . . A terrific historical thriller that held me gripped from start to finish * Historical Novel Society *Rich in atmosphere, and chilling in its authenticity, Bishops paints a vivid image of 16th-century Italy * Scottish Field *Bishop has an impressive command of Florence’s history, its beauty, ambition, and taste for violence. Readers will eagerly await the sequel * Publishers Weekly *A thrilling historical crime novel, with more twists and turns than the river Arno, and a fantastic cast of characters both fictional and factual -- Bookliterati

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Book SynopsisThe prequel to David Downing?s bestselling Station series introduces John Russell, an Englishman with a political past who must keep his head down as the Nazis solidify their power.February 27, 1933. In this stunning prequel to the John Russell espionage novels, the Reichstag parliament building in Berlin is set ablaze. It?s just a month after Hitler?s inauguration as Chancellor of Germany, and the Nazis use the torching to justify a campaign of terror against their political opponents. John Russell?s recent separation from his wife threatens his right to reside in Germany and any meaningful relationship with his six-year-old son, Paul. He has just secured work as a crime reporter for a Berlin newspaper, and the crimes which he has to report?the gruesome murder of a rent boy, the hit-and-run death of a professional genealogist, the suspicious disappearance of a Nazi-supporting celebrity fortune-teller?are increasingly entangled in the wider nightmare engulfing Germany. Each new investigation carries the risk of Russell?s falling foul of the authorities, at a time when the rule of law has completely vanished, and the Nazis are running scores of pop-up detention centers, complete with torture chambers, in every corner of Berlin.

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Book SynopsisA portrait of evil in Victorian London.

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Book Synopsis* A SUNDAY TIMES HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK OF 2023 * 'A gloriously foreboding Gothic tale' - HEAT 'A thrillingly dark page-turner' - MAIL ON SUNDAY 'Marta is Jane Eyre's black-hearted alter ego' - THE TIMES Many would find much to fear in Fyneshade's dark and crumbling corridors, its unseen master and silent servants. But not I. For they have far more to fear from me... On the day of her beloved grandmother's funeral, Marta discovers that she is to become governess to the young daughter of Sir William Pritchard. Separated from her lover and discarded by her family, Marta has no choice but to journey to Pritchard's ancient and crumbling house, Fyneshade, in the wilds of Derbyshire. All is not well at Fyneshade. Marta's pupil, little Grace, can be taught nothing, and Marta takes no comfort from the silent servants who will not meet her eye. More intriguing is that Sir William is mysteriously absent, and his son and heir Vaughan is forbidden to enter the house. Marta finds herself drawn to Vaughan, despite the warnings of the housekeeper that he is a danger to all around him. But Marta is no innocent to be preyed upon. Guided by the dark gift taught to her by her grandmother, she has made her own plans. And it will take more than a family riven by murderous secrets to stop her... Perfect for readers of Laura Purcell, Jessie Burton and Stacey Halls, Fyneshade is a dark and twisted gothic novel unlike any you've read before...Trade ReviewA highly original work of dark gothic brilliance. In a house with monstrous secrets, Marta is a heroine like no other. She will steal your heart, believe me. A story so inventive and exciting, I simply couldn't wait for the next page -- Janice Hallett, author of THE APPEALDark, heady and bold, Fyneshade is a seductive treat, with a protagonist who is both wicked and irresistible. I was entranced from the first page to the last -- Antonia Hodgson, author of THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEAWhat a brilliant, chilling, thrilling gothic masterpiece... I do love a clever, evil heroine. Magnificent -- Clare BaldingJane Eyre but with an icy heart... a dark, inventive story * Sunday Times *Marta is Jane Eyre's black-hearted alter ego... ingenious * The Times *Victorian menace with echoes of both Jane Eyre and The Secret Garden * Financial Times *A thrillingly dark page-turner with deeply satisfying nods to a number of gothic classics * Mail on Sunday *A gloriously foreboding Gothic tale, with a delicious anti-heroine and a fiendish final twist in the tale * Heat *A tour de force! I thoroughly enjoyed this darkest of dark tales with its canny and complicated heroine, and a final twist that made me gasp out loud. Gloriously wicked -- Rosie Andrews, author of THE LEVIATHANWith a satisfyingly dark anti-hero at its core Fyneshade makes for compelling storytelling and proves Kate Griffin's a new standout voice in gothic fiction -- Susan Stokes-Chapman, author of PANDORAA darkly delicious joy of a historical gothic novel. Mature and accomplished storytelling that's utterly compelling. I loved it -- Essie Fox, author of THE SOMNAMBULISTPlayful and compelling, and a wonderful love letter to Gothic -- Nicola Upson, author of AN EXPERT IN MURDERWonderful and well-deserved. I loved Fyneshade's clever reworking of Jane Eyre's gothic tropes, it's wicked anti-heroine and immaculate plotting. A perfectly shivery read for a hot summer day... Stupendously good -- Amanda Craig, author of THE LIE OF THE LANDI absolutely adored this unforgettable and original take on the governess gothic. Marta is the anti-heroine you can't help rooting for: I was under her spell from the very first page. A deliciously dark and decadent novel, sure to bewitch readers everywhere -- Emilia Hart, author of WEYWARDWhat a devious and delightful tale. In Marta, Kate Griffin gives us one the most inventive and compelling characters of recent years. A gloriously gothic and often darkly funny story. I devoured it whole -- Anna Mazzola, author of THE CLOCKWORK GIRL

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Book Synopsis''A story to savour, complete with wonderful settings stretching from Paris to the glorious countryside of southern France'' Dinah JefferiesA LOVEREADING BOOK OF THE YEAR from the bestselling author behind Channel 5''s Carol Drinkwater''s Secret Provence________Since her teenage daughter went missing four years ago, Kurtiz Ross has blamed and isolated herself. Until, out of the blue, Lizzie is sighted in Paris.But within hours of her arrival, Kurtiz sees the City of Light plunged into terror.Amid the fear and chaos, a hand reaches out. A sympathetic stranger offers to help a terrified mother find her daughter.The other woman''s kindness - and her stories of her own love and loss in post-war Provence - shine unexpected light into the shadows. The night may hold the answers to a mystery - but dare Kurtiz believe it could also bring a miracle?________''A gripping tale'' SunTrade ReviewRanging across time periods this is a story to savour, complete with wonderful settings stretching from Paris to the occupied territory of the West Bank, and to the glorious countryside of southern France and La Côte d'Azur. Most of all I enjoyed the descriptions of France, particularly the 'wild heady scents', the sloping vineyards and the olive groves of the south. I felt I was breathing the fragrant air and eating dinner beneath the stars -- Dinah Jefferies * Number One Sunday Times bestselling author of The Tea Planter's Wife *The perfect holiday read that manages to keep you guessing the whole way through * Living France *An unforgettable journey of family, romance, regret and renewal * The Gloss *Carol Drinkwater is a great and compassionate writer -- Danuta Kean * Guardian *Mesmerising, haunting and extraordinarily relevant * Lovereading *A gripping tale * Sunday Post *An emotional tale of loss and kindness * French Property News *The Lost Girl is a story of love and loss, of sadness and great joy . . . Through a cast of frequently complex but immensely likeable characters, the author takes us on a journey - across five generations - that challenge a wide range of political, social and moral mores. Ultimately, The Lost Girl offers a message of hope and regeneration, in addition to the timely reminder that it is often darkest before the dawn * The Middle East *A brilliantly told story set against that dreadful night. The characters are superbly written . . . I couldn't put it down * NetGalley Reviewer *A great book, one you become immersed in, highly recommended * NetGalley Reviewer *Great read and easy to follow, look forward to reading more * NetGalley Reviewer *Superb book . . . two different eras that tie in beautifully . . . I couldn't put the book down * NetGalley Reviewer *Praise for The Forgotten Summer * - *Secrets, tragedy, hidden pasts and family secrets all set in glorious Provence - I loved this -- Santa MontefioreA lovely book packed with the sunshine, scents and savours of the South of France. Plenty of page-turning drama but also mouthwatering descriptions of Paris and Provence. Enough to make you rush straight to the Eurostar * Daily Mail *This atmospheric read will whisk you straight to the South of France as you become immersed in the tale of secrets and heartbreak * Marie Claire *Gripping * Candis *I loved this book. I kept snatching a few more pages whenever I could. It has left me wanting to head to warmer climes and take part in the grape and olive harvests. Well I can dream can't I? * Mumsnet *

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Book SynopsisFrom the highly acclaimed author of The Photographer of the Lost, a BBC Radio 2 Book Club Pick, comes a tale of a young war widow and one life-changing, sun-drenched visit to Cornwall in the summer of 1923...1923. Esme Nicholls is to spend the summer in Cornwall. Her late husband Alec, who died fighting in WWI, grew up in Penzance, and she’s hoping to learn more about the man she loved and lost.   While there, she will stay with Gilbert, in his rambling seaside house, where he lives with his former brothers in arms. Esme is nervous at first to be the only woman in this community of eccentric artists and former soldiers. But as she gets to know the men and their stories, she begins to feel this summer might be exactly what she needs.   But everything is not as idyllic as it seems – a mysterious new arrival later in the summer will turn Esme’s world upside down, and make her question everythingTrade Review‘Beautifully written, with evocative images of Cornwall, and addressing grief and the horrors of war, Esme’s journey will stay with you for a very long time' * Heat, read of the week *'The Visitors is a beautifully evoked exploration of love, grief and redemption set in a particularly gorgeous part of Cornwall and with a narrative twist that I didn't see coming. A wonderful novel' -- Rachel Hore‘Enchanting and beautifully written’ * Fabulous Magazine *‘Caroline Scott weaves a tale about grief, love and life-changing revelations’ * Woman’s Own *‘Written with breathtaking beauty, sensuality, honesty and insight, Scott’s compassionate and compelling mystery story melds a cast of achingly real characters into a landscape of glittering, white-edged seas, ridged and rippled sand, azure skies and light rendered exquisitely iridescent and elemental' -- Pam Norfolk * Lancashire Evening Post *‘Gripping’ * Bella *‘A poignant novel about love, loss and rebuilding your life’ * Yours Book Club *‘Great New Year Reads’ * Choice *'#The Visitors by Caroline Scott is food for the soul on steroids' -- Dinah Jefferies‘Well my first read of 2022 has set the bar very high. I’ve long been a fan of Caroline Scott, but my goodness me, her latest novel, The Visitors, is an absolute stunner. I read a lot, and enjoy a lot, of books, but I usually have some slight niggle by the end. Not this time. This beautiful book is, to my mind, perfect in every way. The writing is just sublime, the gentle story unfolding with poignancy and warmth. There were moments that raised a smile, moments that brought an ache to my heart, and there were revelations that took me by surprise. The Visitors is a very special book indeed and I urge you to read it.’ -- Anita Frank

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Book SynopsisTurn a Blind Eye is the third instalment in the gripping story of Detective Inspector William Warwick, by the master storyteller and Sunday Times number one bestselling author of the Clifton Chronicles.William Warwick, now a Detective Inspector, is tasked with a dangerous new line of work, to go undercover and expose crime of another kind: corruption at the heart of the Metropolitan Police Force. His team is focused on following Detective Jerry Summers, a young officer whose lifestyle appears to exceed his income. But as a personal relationship develops with a member of William’s team, it threatens to compromise the whole investigation.Meanwhile, a notorious drug baron goes on trial, with the prosecution case led by William’s father and sister. And William’s wife Beth, now a mother to twins, renews an old acquaintance who appears to have turned over a new leaf, or has she?As the undercover officers start to draw the threads together, William realizes that the corruption may go deeper still, and more of his colleagues than he first thought might be willing to turn a blind eye.‘Peerless master of the page-turner’ – Daily MailTrade ReviewProbably the greatest storyteller of our age * Mail on Sunday *If there were a Nobel Prize for storytelling, Archer would win * Daily Telegraph *Jeffrey Archer is one of my literary heroes. * Fraser Nelson, The Spectator *

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Book Synopsis'Mel Starr has done it again with another brilliant Sir Hugh de Singleton medieval mystery to keep readers guessing until the very end. [.] I was there at the Queen's College, dining on pottage, getting soaked in the rain in fourteenth-century Oxford - Mel always draws you into the experience.' Toni Mount, author of the Sebastian Foxley murder mystery series One of Master John Wycliffe's scholars is found dead after a thunderstorm. Was he struck by lightning, or was there something more sinister to his death? Scholar Richard Sabyn, a particularly obnoxious fellow, was believed to have been struck by lightning. However, Master Wycliffe believes otherwise and calls upon Sir Hugh de Singleton for help. Sir Hugh shares Wycliffe's suspicions and launches a private investigation, learning that it might indeed be possible to make it look as though a man has died from a lightning strike. But who would go to all that effort, and why? When fellow scholar Simon Duby dies, it raises even more questions and suspicions. What is the connection between the two men? Sir Hugh believes a bronze pot, a bucket of urine, and a small quantity of charcoal and brimstone may hold the answer. During a bleak 1375, can he survive the insidious plague and several attempts on his life as he continues his quest for truth?

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Book Synopsis'An utterly thrilling gothic tale' KIRSTY WARK'Rich in atmosphere and suspense' BELLA ELLIS'Two unforgettable heroines' ELLY GRIFFITHSDark and brimming with suspense, an atmospheric Victorian chiller set in brooding County Durham for fans of Stacey Halls and Laura Purcell1871. An age of discovery and progress. But for the Wainwright family, residents of the gloomy Teesbank Hall in County Durham the secrets of the past continue to overshadow their lives.Harriet would not have taken the job of governess in such a remote place unless she wanted to hide from something or someone. Her charge is Eleanor, the daughter of the house, a fiercely bright eighteen-year-old, tortured by demons and feared by relations and staff alike. But it soon becomes apparent that Harriet is not there to teach Eleanor, but rather to monitor her erratic and dangerous behaviour - to spy on her.Worn down by Eleanor's unpredictable hostility, Harriet soon finds herself embroiled in Eleanor's obsession - the Wainwright's dark, tragic history. As family secrets are unearthed, Harriet's own begin to haunt her and she becomes convinced that ghosts from the past are determined to reveal her shameful story.For Harriet, like Eleanor, is plagued by deception and untruths.'Terrific characters' ELIZABETH BUCHAN'A deliciously unsettling tale' SONIA VELTON'Gothic ingredients given a modern twist' HOPE ADAMSTrade ReviewAn utterly thrilling Gothic tale of two women, secretly striving to break free from the female conventions of Victorian England -- Kirsty WarkRich in atmosphere and suspense, The Deception of Harriet Fleet is a deliciously dark and Gothic tale that transports you into the Victorian age -- Bella Ellis, author of THE BRONTË MYSTERIESThis book could have been written especially for me as it contains all my favourite things: Gothic setting, wild landscape, family secrets and not one but two unforgettable heroines. A richly enjoyable read that has a lot to say about women's lives, then and now -- Elly Griffiths, author of THE DR RUTH GALLOWAY MYSTERIESI so enjoyed this. With terrific characters and a deep feeling for the Gothic, this is quite a debut. Helen Scarlett is obviously a writer who will go far -- Elizabeth Buchan, author of THE MUSEUM OF BROKEN PROMISESI was completely transported to bleak Teesbank Hall where the corridors echo with murder and madness. The Deception of Harriet Fleet is a deliciously unsettling tale with women, and their quest for truth, independence and fulfilment, at its dark, Gothic heart -- Sonia Velton, author of BLACKBERRY AND WILD ROSERaced through this engrossing debut. It's a tale full of familiar Gothic ingredients given a modern twist. Just the ticket for a chilly January night -- Hope Adams, author of DANGEROUS WOMENA fabulously engrossing mystery - a richly woven tale of Victorian Gothic suspense that's spine-tingling, riveting and keeps you guessing to the end. The Secret Garden meets Jane Eyre -- Lulu Taylor, author of A MIDWINTER PROMISEA haunting, richly imagined novel, suffused with dread. Harriet Fleet's is the poignant story of a brave woman fighting to break free from the constraints of society and the grip of demons past and present. A captivating book -- Miranda Malins, author of THE PURITAN PRINCESS

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Book SynopsisSpring, 1909, and Lady Hardcastle, amateur sleuth and all-round eccentric, is enjoying a well-deserved rest. But a week after a trip to the cattle market, Spencer Caradine, a local farmer, turns up dead in the pub, face-down in his beef and mushroom pie. Once again, it is up to Lady Hardcastle and her maid, Florence, to solve the case. Armed with wit and whimsy, not to mention Florence’s mean right hook, the pair set out to discover what really happened and why. Was it poison or just ill luck? As they delve further into their investigation, they encounter a theft where nothing is stolen, a séance with a troubled ghost and an ever-increasing number of Spencer’s family and friends who might just have motive for murder. One thing’s for sure: Lady Hardcastle has a mystery on her hands.

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Book SynopsisFrom the CWA Historical Dagger Award-nominated author of The Angel's Mark in 2019 and The Serpent's Mark in 2020England, 1593: Five years on from the Armada and Elizabeth's kingdom seems secure. But there is always a plot afoot...Robert Cecil, the Queen's spymaster, needs Nicholas Shelby - reluctant spy and maverick physician - to embark on an undercover mission once again. One that he can't refuse, if he wants to keep Bianca Merton safe.Crossing the seas to Marrakesh in search of a missing informer, Nicholas hunts the dingy back alleys and dazzling palaces for the truth. But his search reveals a deadly conspiracy, one far more difficult to survive than he'd ever imagined.And back in London the plague has returned, ravaging the streets and threatening everything he holds most dear...________________________Praise for The Jackdaw Mysteries, a CWA Dagger finalist series'S. W. Perry is one of the best' The Times'No-one is better than S. W. Perry at leading us through the squalid streets of London in the sixteenth century' Andrew Swanston'S. W. Perry's ingeniously plotted novels have become my favourite historical crime series' S. G. MacLeanTrade ReviewThe third in Perry's series is as dramatic and colourful as the previous two. * The Sunday Times *An absolute belter of a read and another fabulous addition to the Jackdaw Mysteries series... I just gobbled up the pages as the story fairly roars along battling spies and pirates on route... S. W. Perry ensures the sights, smells and sounds of London and Morocco entered my very being. I love this series. -- Liz Robinson * LoveReading, Picks of the month *The writing is of such a quality, the characters so engaging and the setting so persuasive that, only two books in, S.W. Perry's ingeniously plotted novels have become my favourite historical crime series. * S. G. MacLean on The Serpent's Mark *A satisfyingly convoluted plot. * Sunday Times on The Serpent's Mark *No-one is better than S. W. Perry at leading us through the squalid streets of London in the sixteenth century. * Andrew Swanston on The Serpent's Mark *The Serpent's Mark is an excellent evocation of Elizabethan England, with espionage, intricate conspiracies, strange medical practises and a gripping story. A rattling good read. * William Ryan on The Serpent's Mark *A gorgeous book - rich, intelligent and dark in equal measure. It immerses you in the late 16th century and leaves you wrung out with terror. This is historical fiction at its most sumptuous. * Rory Clements on The Angel's Mark *Wonderful! Beautiful writing, and Perry's Elizabethan London is so skilfully evoked, so real that one can almost smell it. * Giles Kristian on The Angel's Mark *[With] intrigue and suspense, Perry's diligent research makes the period detail convincing. Fans of S.J. Parris and C.J. Sansom will be pleased. * Publishers Weekly, starred review *

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Book SynopsisWhen a pacifist is found murdered, questions are raised: why did the man have a loaded revolver? Did he have enemies? As DI Jago digs deep into the man's past, it seems like more than one person might have had a motive for murder.

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Book SynopsisThe La Fleur restaurant has a slew of unusual phenomena. Bonnet-clad apparitions pass through walls, blood leaks from ceilings and rats besiege the dining room. Experts from the Great Essex Witch Museum are called in to quell these strange sights. But before Rosie Strange and Sam Stone can do their thing events turn darker. For La Fleur’s chef has been strung up and slaughtered like a pig. More oddly, the only witness, the owner’s daughter Mary, swears blind a ghost did it. Rosie and Sam must find out what’s happening before Mary takes the fall. But intuitions and tip-offs lead them stumbling into the dark waters of the past, exposing secrets of a wider conspiracy, as well as secrets all Rosie’s own. With strange chills Rosie and Sam learn that seeing isn’t always believing, while thoughts of truth may be just as illusory.Trade Review'A fun and thrilling read, one hugely impressive element is that Moore uses her light tone and intricate character relationships to address some serious points - ranging from people trafficking through to the derogatory stereotype of the Essex Girl. Lead character Rosie Strange is a woman to be admired with her ballsy, no-nonsense attitude, excellent boots and compelling family history. I can't wait to see more of Rosie, Sam and the Essex Witch museum in the future.' * Cathi Unsworth, author of Weirdo and Without the Moon *'She is the best thing to happen to paranormal fiction in a long, long time.' * Starburst Magazine *‘Once again, Moore pulls off the trick of combining incisive wit and spellbinding atmosphere with multiple layers of history and contemporary issues into one potent draft.’ * Crimesquad *'Like Strange Magic, the perilous pursuits and gruesome developments are accompanied by lots of humor. And, for those of you who, like me, find living human beings far scarier than dead ones, rest assured that the book offers an abundance of plain old human evil of the sort that occurs in this life.' * Pop Culture Association Mystery & Detective Reading List *'Sexual Chemistry and supernatural happenings come together to form a read that's part 50% Jonathan Creek, 50% Moonlighting, and 100% bloody brilliant (in more ways than one...)' * The Bookbag *‘Moore does an excellent job here of highlighting a real historical scandal with echoes in the present day.’ * BLUEBOOKBALLOON *‘I became totally immersed in Rosie’s world – I loved her relationship with Sam, as well as the descriptions of London. Rosie is such a strong character; her fantastic wit is weaved throughout the narrative. The plot kept me guessing right until the end. I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Highly recommended.’ * Elisabeth Carpenter, author of 99 Red Balloons *‘Forget Essex, Rosie Strange should be declared a national treasure. She is the best thing to happen to paranormal fiction in a long, long time.’ 10/10 * Starburst Magazine *

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Book Synopsis''A lively, well-written, entertaining whodunit'' THE TIMESLose yourself in the sumptuous first novel in a new series of Golden Age mysteries set amid the lives of the glamorous Mitford sisters.It''s 1919, and Louisa Cannon dreams of escaping her life of poverty in London, and most of all her oppressive and dangerous uncle.Louisa''s salvation is a position within the Mitford household at Asthall Manor, in the Oxfordshire countryside. There she will become nurserymaid, chaperone and confidante to the Mitford sisters, especially sixteen-year-old Nancy - an acerbic, bright young woman in love with stories.But when a nurse - Florence Nightingale Shore, goddaughter of her famous namesake - is killed on a train in broad daylight, Nancy and amateur sleuth Louisa find that in postwar England, everyone has something to hide . . . Written by Jessica Fellowes, author of the number one-bestselling Downton Abbey books, TheTrade ReviewA lively, well-written, entertaining whodunit * The Times (Crime Fiction Book of the Month) *Exactly the sort of book you might enjoy with the fire blazing, the snow falling etc. The solution is neat and the writing always enjoyable. (Best Crime Books of 2017) * Anthony Horowitz *An extraordinary meld of fact and fiction * Graham Norton *True and glorious indulgence. A dazzling example of a golden age mystery. * Daisy Goodwin *All the blissful escapism of a Sunday-night period drama in a book. * The Pool *Keeps the reader guessing to the very end. An accomplished crime debut and huge fun to read. * Evening Standard *This story is drenched in detail and feels both authentic and fun. Curl up in your favourite reading spot and enjoy. * Heat *The plan is that each book will focus on a different Mitford sister. On the strength of this initial entry, success is assured. * Financial Times *Elegant, whipsmart and brilliantly twisty-turny, this Downton-style mystery had me hooked from the first page * Viv Groskop *Full of period pleasure. * Woman & Home *Jessica Fellowes' deliciously immersive, effortlessly easy novel has a strong feel for period and a rollicking plot. * Metro *This novel truly is a wonderful surprise. Bring on the sequel! * Elle (France) *With nearly as much period detail as an episode of Downton, this delightful romp satisfies like a cup of strong nursery tea accompanied by a Battenburg cake * Washington Post *What a captivating crime novel and heroine Jessica has created in The Mitford Murders. The instant reassurance of being in the hands of a true storyteller with a feel for period detail makes this a real treat. * Amanda Craig *A locked room mystery . . . I enjoyed this cosy crime caper. * Red *Downton Abbey fans, rejoice. For those who miss Lady Mary and Bates, the Mitford series is a winner. * Globe & Mail *The premise is clever . . . a zippy read for those interested in the 1920s. * The Lady *Perfect for those missing their Downton Abbey fix. * Belfast Telegraph *Remarkably assured and with pitch-perfect period detail * Country Life *It's the perfect cosy crime read; an escapist, Sunday-night period drama wrapped up in a book. The start of a series that doesn't disappoint, and one I suspect the Mitford sisters would have approved of. * Image Magazine *It is impossible to not like this book . . . a light and entertaining read best saved for when it gets cold outside and you need something to cosy up with. * Crime Fiction Lover *Read it if you like Europe of mid-twenties and want to get immersed in the post-war goings on. * Snow Queen SVT (blog) *Everything in one book. Crime, mystery, romance, humour, gritty reality, fact, fiction and so much more. This book is special, and I can guarantee I'll be looking out for the next one. A 'Must read' highly recommended by me. * Starts At 60 (blog) *This is an outstanding first book in a series. Wonderful pacing, characters, and depth * Book Lover's Book Reviews (blog) *The Mitford Murders is a captivating read. Fellowes, perhaps best known for her Downtown Abbey books, is very good at what she does * Sandy's Book a Day Blog *It's well written and researched, touching on a lot of issues of the time * Debbish (blog) *

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Book SynopsisThe new novel from the author of Art in the Blood. December 1889. Fresh from debunking a ghostly hound in Dartmoor, Sherlock Holmes has returned to London, only to find himself the target of a deadly vendetta.A beautiful client arrives with a tale of ghosts, kidnapping and dynamite on a whisky estate in Scotland, but brother Mycroft trumps all with an urgent assignment in the South of France.On the fabled Riviera, Holmes and Watson encounter treachery, explosions, rival French Detective Jean Vidocq and a terrible discovery. This propels the duo northward to the snowy highlands. There, in a haunted castle and among the copper dinosaurs of a great whisky distillery, they and their young client face mortal danger, and Holmes realizes all three cases have blended into a single, deadly conundrum.In order to solve the mystery, the ultimate rational thinker must confront a ghost from his own past. But Sherlock Holmes does not believe in ghostsor does he?Trade Review‘Haunting, vivid and beautifully plotted, Unquiet Spirits is both an elegant tribute and a cunning update of everything we love about Sherlock Holmes and his world. Bonnie MacBird has done it again!’—Daniel Stashower, Edgar, Agatha, and Anthony award winning author of Teller of Tales: The Life of Arthur Conan Doyle ‘If the original 60 Holmes stories aren't enough for you, read Bonnie MacBird's Unquiet Spirits for another dram of the Great Detective. MacBird deftly blends a series of grisly murders and dark secrets from Holmes’s past into a strong brew!’—Leslie S. Klinger, editor of The New Annotated Sherlock Holmes ‘A superb Sherlockian adventure. Bonnie MacBird’s take on Holmes and Watson is inventive and true to the canon, a splendid blend of fast-paced action and detection in a deliciously gothic Highland setting. I can’t wait for her next book.’—Dana Cameron, BSI, Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity award-winning author of the Emma Fielding mysteries ‘Pour yourself a wee dram, toss another peat on the fire, and prepare to be swept up in the great detective's Highland fling. MacBird's spooky, scholarly, thoroughly ‘spirited’ follow up to Art in the Blood is a triumph of voice, place, and plotting. Highly recommended for fans of Sherlock, Scotland, and whisky lovers everywhere.’—Catriona McPherson, bestselling author of the multi-award-winning Dandy Gilver series ‘MacBird’s outstanding sequel to 2015’s Art in the Blood melds a twisty, multilayered plot with a plausible exploration of Sherlock Holmes’s life before Watson … Will make Sherlockians eager for more from her.’—Publishers Weekly Starred Review ‘MacBird could possibly be Conan Doyle reincarnated. I hope this is a lengthy series. A perfect read as the nights draw in.’—CrimeSquad.com ‘Ms MacBird does a fine job of re-creating the familiar Holmesian universe’—Wall Street Journal

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Book SynopsisTWENTY-ONE DAYS is the first in an exciting new generation of Pitt novels, featuring Daniel Pitt, by New York Times bestseller and queen of Victorian crime, Anne Perry.1910. Sir Thomas Pitt''s son, Daniel, is in the middle of his first case as a barrister when he is summoned to the Old Bailey for an important trial. Renowned biographer Russell Graves is charged with the brutal murder of his wife and Daniel must assist in his defence.When the jury finds the accused guilty, Graves insists he has been framed. He is writing a shocking exposé of a powerful figure, revealing state secrets so damning that someone might well have wanted to silence him. With the reputations of those closest to him at stake, Daniel has twenty-one days to uncover the truth and ensure that an innocent man isn''t sent to the gallows . . .''Anne Perry''s Victorian mysteries are marvels of plot construction'' New York TimesTrade ReviewPraise for Anne Perry: 'There is a freshness about [Perry's] writing which makes it truly exceptional and I was gripped until the final page. Death on Blackheath was one of the best books I've read this year and I cannot recommend it highly enough' * Eurocrime *A page-turning thriller . . . blending compelling plotting with superbly realized human emotion and exquisite period detail -- Jeffery Deaver'Anne Perry's Victorian mysteries are marvels of plot construction' * New York Times *A truly unusual mystery * Publishers Weekly *'Elegantly constructed and nail-bitingly tense' * Good Book Guide *Perry is a master at illuminating the wrongs of the Victorian age * Booklist *The monsters Anne Perry creates are not easy to live with, and their actions linger long after the book is closed * New York Journal of Books *

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Book SynopsisA haunting tale about one woman''s fight to tell her story, The Confessions of Frannie Langton leads you through laudanum-laced dressing rooms and dark-as-night alleys, into the heart of Georgian London.''Deep-diving and elegant'' Margaret Atwood''Takes the gothic genre by the scruff of the neck'' Bernadine Evaristo-----''They say I must be put to death for what happened to Madame, and they want me to confess. But how can I confess what I don''t believe I''ve done?''1826, and all of London is in a frenzy. Crowds gather at the gates of the Old Bailey to watch as Frannie Langton, maid to Mr and Mrs Benham, goes on trial for their murder. The testimonies against her are damning - slave, whore, seductress. And they may be the truth. But they are not the whole truth.For the first time Frannie must tell her story. It begins with a girl learning to read on a plantation in Jamaica, and it ends in a grand Trade ReviewAn impressive debut, dazzlingly original * The Times *Bold and powerful * The Sunday Times *A fantastically assured piece of historical gothic * The Guardian Best Fiction of 2019 *

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Book SynopsisFrom the award-winning author of ROAD TO PERDITION, the new QUARRY novel continues the deadly story of the assassin who stars in the acclaimed Cinemax original series Memphis, 1975. "Raunchy" doesn't begin to describe Max Climer's magazine, Climax, or his all-hours strip club, or his planned video empire. And evangelists, feminists, and local watchdog groups all want him out of business. But someone wants more than that, and has hired a killer to end Max's career permanently. Only another hit man - the ruthless professional known as Quarry, star of the acclaimed series on Cinemax - can keep Climer from becoming a casualty in the Sexual Revolution.Trade Review"Collins treats us to a wonderfully vivid look at the pornography industry in its heyday. From publishers to centerfolds to strippers to feminist protesters, he cuts through the stereotypes with quick bits of subtle characterization (but, please, don’t say you read a book with Climax in the title only for the characters)." - Booklist"Quintessential Collins and Quarry, a glorious mix of well-written action, humor, and sudden, unexpected, brutality." - Mystery Scene I’ve written about the Quarry books several times… it remains my favorite Collins series. I think one of the reasons I enjoy these books so much is because it melds the headlong pulpy momentum of Mickey Spillane with the gleefully transgressive sensibility of seventies trash paperback series like The Executioner or The Liquidator. But, y’know, better...Collins can plot a mystery; everything develops naturally and the puzzle is always taxing without ever feeling contrived....I always enjoy seeing it done well and Collins does it better than most. I recommend all the Quarry books and you can read them in most any order, but I enjoyed this one more than any of them since The Wrong Quarry. —AtomicJunkShop"fast paced and fun" - San Francisco Book Review & Seattle Book Reivew

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of The Secret Wife and The Manhattan Girls, Another Woman''s Husband will be adored by all fans of The Crown. Wallis Simpson is brought enticingly to life in this gripping, moving novel about two women thrust into the spotlight, followed by scandal, touched by loss.''One of my favourite books of this year. Fascinating, glamorous and utterly compelling... historical fiction at its best'' Tracy Rees, author of The Hourglass.''With superb story-telling and a lush backdrop of period detail...a novel that is impossible to put down, about two women who are impossible to forget. I loved it!'' Hazel GaynorTwo women who challenged the Crown.Divided by time. Bound by a secret...1911At the age of fifteen, carefree Mary Kirk and indomitable Wallis Warfield meet at summer camp. Their friendship will survive heartbreaks, separation and the demands of the British Crown until Trade ReviewGill Paul has taken two of the twentieth century's most enigmatic women, one revered, the other reviled, and woven them into a deft story of friendship and betrayal -- Kate RiordanA perfect, marvellous read * The Sun *One of my favourite books of this year. Fascinating, glamorous and utterly compelling. This is page-turning character-driven historical fiction at its best -- Tracy ReesWith great verve and a smattering of delicious fictional licence, Gill evokes the events and characters of two eras. Conspiracy theories abound, providing fertile ground for Gill's undoubted storytelling talents. Delightful -- Liz TrenowThis novel is pure magic. Gill writes with compassion for her characters, with great knowledge of her eras, and with a clear love of subject. This has bestseller written all over it. And it deserves to soar -- Louise BeechRiveting! . . . I thoroughly enjoyed this intriguing tale of friendship and betrayal. Gill writes with such fluency and a fast pace that keeps the reader wanting more -- Rosanna LeyIn this fascinating portrayal of two of history's most famous women, Gill Paul takes us behind the scenes of lives and events we think we know well ... and challenges us to think again. With a pacy narrative that moves between the coming-of-age of a young woman called Wallis in the early 20th century, and the death of Princess Diana in 1997, Another Woman's Husband is a vivid study of Wallis and Diana through two very different lenses: those of Wallis's best friend, Mary, and of a young woman unwittingly caught up in the events surrounding Diana's tragic death. With superb story-telling and a lush backdrop of period detail, Paul crafts a novel that is impossible to put down, about two women who are impossible to forget. Sure to be a huge success, I loved it! -- Hazel GaynorAnother Woman's Husband by Gill Paul is Another Wonderful Book. Loved the seamless blend of fact and fiction * Kathryn Hughes *A compelling story . . . that captivated me from start to finish . . . very highly recommended * The Book Magnet *Praise for Gill Paul * - *A cleverly crafted novel and an enthralling story: the heartbreak genuine, the research brilliant. I love the way the present narrative throws light on the past story so that the transitions are smooth. A triumph * Dinah Jefferies *A heart-warming affirmation of the tenacity of human love * Liz Trenow *A marvellous story: gripping, romantic and evocative of a turbulent and fascinating time * Lulu Taylor *Gill Paul has clearly done her research in this absorbing story that cleverly blends imagination with historical fact... Tragic, touching and authentic-feeling * Kate Riordan *This is an intriguing and involving book that explores a really fascinating period in time in a clever and highly enjoyable way. I was hooked into both timelines from the start * Joanna Courtney *Meticulously researched and evocatively written, this sweeping story will keep a tight hold on your heartstrings until the final page * Iona Grey *This engrossing, heart-wrenching novel moves between the decades, combining history with fiction to portray the tragic events of the Russian Revolution * Sunday Express *

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Book SynopsisSeptember 1909, and Lady Hardcastle and her maid, Florence, have been invited to Lord Riddlethorpe’s country estate for a week of motor racing and parties. They both agree that it sounds like a perfectly charming holiday. But when one of the drivers dies in a crash during the very first race, they discover that what seemed like an uncharacteristic error in judgement may have a more sinister explanation… Closer investigation reveals that the driver’s car was sabotaged—and the driver murdered. The local constabulary are quick to dismiss the case, but Flo and Lady Hardcastle are determined to find out just who has committed this dastardly act, and why. As the pair begin to make enquiries of Lord Riddlethorpe’s servants and guests, it seems that, below stairs and above, there is more to this case than meets the eye. And, even in the quiet of the countryside, death is always just around the bend.

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Book SynopsisFor the twentieth anniversary of the start of the Matthew Bartholomew series, Sphere is delighted to reissue all of the medieval monk's cases with beautiful new series-style covers.Trade Review[A] richly imagined world of colourful medieval society and irresistible monkish sleuthing - Good Book GuideSusanna Gregory writes with fluency and energy, avoids archaic vocabulary, despite her 14th-century setting and, having had a career as an academic, bases the stories in this enjoyable series on careful research - Literary ReviewA first-rate treat for mystery lovers - Historical Novels ReviewSusanna Gregory has an extraordinary ability to conjure up a strong sense of time and place - Choice

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Book SynopsisVampire Don Simon Ysido has been captured and held aboard a ship heading to the US to act as a slave, and Dr Lydia Asher must stop it . . . at any cost.March, 1917. The goal of every government involved in the Great War has been achieved: industrialist Spenser Cochran has drugged and enslaved a vampire, Don Simon Ysidro, to do his bidding, and is now on the way to the US aboard a luxury ship.Horrified, Dr Lydia Asher secures her passage on the vessel to rescue her friend from Cochran''s chemical thrall. Meanwhile, her husband makes a dangerous alliance with the vampires of Paris to send Lydia the information she needs about the drug.As they cross the Atlantic evidence mounts that another vampire is hiding aboard the ship, indiscriminately murdering passengers. Lydia knows she must solve both cases before the ship docks, and that breaking Cochran''s hold on Don Simon will not be enough . . . She must kill him.

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Book SynopsisA daring rescue reveals the true meaning of Christmas...The queen of Victorian crime, New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry returns with the 16th novella in her festive crime series.Christmas is coming and the streets of London are full of festive cheer. As young Worm returns to his home at the Portpool Lane clinic, he encounters the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and, spellbound, he follows her until she is dragged away by two evil-looking men. Convinced that she is in grave danger, Worm begs Squeaky Robinson to help him track her down. But Elouise is embroiled with dangerous criminals who want information that only she can tell. They will stop at nothing to get what they want and, with Christmas day fast approaching, Worm and Squeaky must conjure up a daring plan to help Elouise before it is too late.Praise for Anne Perry''s Christmas novellas: ''A bite-sized mystery that could be fitted in after your Christmas Trade ReviewPraise for Anne Perry's Christmas novellas: 'A bite-sized mystery that could be fitted in after your Christmas lunch' Daily Telegraph * Daily Telegraph *If Christmas puts you in the mood for a good Agatha Christie, try Perry * Glasgow Evening Times *Delightful...The perfect gift for a whodunit addict * Oxford Times *With its powerful message of responsibility and redemption - 'We need both to forgive and to be forgiven' - it conveys a moral force in keeping with the season * Wall Street Journal *A Christmas cracker full of rich storytelling, classic conundrums, timeless life lessons and the gift of forgiveness * Lancashire Evening Post *The tale is redolent with Victorian atmosphere, from the hypocritical snobbishness to the rigid social conventions of the time * Tangled Web *[An] engaging historical mystery . . . a winner * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisFrom No.1 bestselling author Andrew Taylor comes the sequel to the phenomenally successful The Ashes of LondonOver 1 Million Andrew Taylor Novels Sold!A time of terrible dangerThe Great Fire has ravaged London. Now, guided by the Fire Court, the city is rebuilding, but times are volatile and danger is only ever a heartbeat away.Two mysterious deathsJames Marwood, a traitor's son, is thrust into this treacherous environment when his father discovers a dead woman in the very place where the Fire Court sits. The next day his father is run down. Accident? Or another murder?A race to stop a murdererDetermined to uncover the truth, Marwood turns to the one person he can trust Cat Lovett, the daughter of a despised regicide. Then comes a third death and Marwood and Cat are forced to confront a vicious killer who threatens the future of the city itself.Trade Review‘Andrew Taylor’s historical crime novels have proved a benchmark for the genre, and The Fire Court is no exception. Cunningly plotted and movingly written, it’s a fascinating portrait of a city, and its people, recovering from trauma’ Mick Herron, bestselling author of Slow Horses ‘This is how historical crime should be written, with rich authenticity underpinning a twisting plot’ The Times ‘Marwood and Lovett’s search for a killer in the sooty streets of 1660s London is an atmospheric pleasure, full of twists and memorable characters’ The Times ‘With a fast-moving, complex plot underpinned by solid but unobtrusive research and plenty of drama and intrigue, Taylor brings the 17th century to life so vividly that one can almost smell it’ Guardian ‘Once again, Taylor combines his detailed research with a deviously twist-laden storyline’ Observer ‘This atmospheric murder mystery by Andrew Taylor is a real treat’ The Times ‘This gripping mystery is even better than its predecessor, The Ashes of London’ Sunday Express S Magazine ‘Taylor remains to my mind at the top of the list of historical novelists writing in English today’ Reviewing the Evidence ‘If it were not a superlative crime novel, Taylor’s evocative picture of the Great Fire of London, The Ashes of London, could be considered a historical novel of the first order. Its sequel, The Fire Court, is equally impressive’ Financial Times ‘In addition to a fascinating portrait of the 17th-century city, Taylor offers a father–son relationship that is as touching as it is convincing’ Literary Review ‘Taylor’s sense of time and place are awe-inspiring, the plot is fiendishly clever and beautifully executed and the language is divine’ Historica Mag

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Book SynopsisThis anthology of rare stories of crime and suspense brings together 16 tales by masters of the Golden Age of Detective Fiction for the first time in book form, including a newly discovered Agatha Christie crime story that has not been seen since 1922.At a time when crime and thriller writing has once again overtaken the sales of general and literary fiction, Bodies from the Library unearths lost stories from the Golden Age, that period between the World Wars when detective fiction captured the public's imagination and saw the emergence of some of the world's cleverest and most popular storytellers.This anthology brings together 16 forgotten tales that have either been published only once before perhaps in a newspaper or rare magazine or have never before appeared in print. From a previously unpublished 1917 script featuring Ernest Bramah's blind detective Max Carrados, to early 1950s crime stories written for London's Evening Standard by Cyril Hare, Freeman Wills Crofts and A.A. Milne, it spans five decades of writing by masters of the Golden Age.Most anticipated of all are the contributions by women writers: the first detective story by Georgette Heyer, unseen since 1923; an unpublished story by Christianna Brand, creator of Nanny McPhee; and a dark tale by Agatha Christie published only in an Australian journal in 1922 during her Grand Tour' of the British Empire.With other stories by Detection Club stalwarts Anthony Berkeley, H.C. Bailey, J.J. Connington, John Rhode and Nicholas Blake, plus Vincent Cornier, Leo Bruce, Roy Vickers and Arthur Upfield, this essential collection harks back to a time before forensic science when murder was a complex business.Trade Review‘A veritable treasure trove of classic short stories. The star line up includes Agatha Christie, Cyril Hare and Georgette Heyer, but the best of the bunch are the second rank authors’ Daily Mail ‘I think I've learned more from [Tony Medawar’s] researches than from the research of any other Golden Age fan’ Martin Edwards, doyouwriteunderyourownname.blogspot.co.uk ‘A stunning array of lost stories’ Puzzle Doctor, classicmystery.wordpress.com ‘An interesting and varied collection of short stories. It is impossible to select just one favourite … It was also great to enjoy stories by writers I had not previously liked.’ CrossExaminingCrime

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Book Synopsis***The Sunday Times Crime Club Star Pick***'Lighthearted, witty and effortlessly clever, just like its wonderful heroine, this is a window into ancient Rome, and a tonic and a joy to read' The Observer'It positively crackles with knowledge of the city and its people, mixed with social comment, ingenious and bloody plots and sharp observational skills leavened by more than a smattering of genuine and sometimes earthy humour' Crime ReviewSaturnalia, the Romans' mid-December feast, nominally to celebrate the sun's rebirth but invariably a drunken riot. Flavia Albia needs a case to investigate, but all work is paused.The Aventine is full of fracturing families. Wives plot to leave their husbands, husbands plot to spend more time with their mistresses. Masters must endure slaves taking obscene liberties, while aggressive slaves are learning to ape dangerous masters. But no one wants to hire an investigator during the holiday.Albia is lumped with her own domestic stress: overexcited children and bilious guests, too many practical jokes, and her magistrate husband Tiberius preoccupied with local strife. He fears a Nut War. Nuts are both the snack and missile of choice of tipsy celebrants, so there is a fortune to be made. This year a hustling gang from the past is horning in on the action.As the deadly menace strikes even close to home, and with law and order paused for partying, Albia and Tiberius must go it alone. The Emperor has promised the people a spectacular entertainment - but Domitian himself is a target for the old criminals' new schemes. Can the Undying Sun survive the winter solstice, or will criminal darkness descend upon Rome?Praise for Lindsey Davis and the Flavia Albia series'For a totally exhilarating romp through Ancient Rome, Lindsey Davis' latest Flavia Alba novel won't be beaten and offers an immersive experience of a vibrant world full of real, recognisable characters' Shotsmag'In this witty novel by the mistress of Roman crime, the reader is transported behind the scenes of a Triumph into a fascinating world of actors, costumiers and animal trainers, all united in their hatred of the murdered man' Sunday Express Magazine'Davis does her usual brilliant job of integrating the history of the period, warts and all, with a fast-paced and fair whodunit' Publishers WeeklyTrade Reviewa riotous mystery set in AD89 * The Sunday Times Crime Club *Lighthearted, witty and effortlessly clever, just like its wonderful heroine, this is a window into ancient Rome, and a tonic and a joy to read * The Observer *It positively crackles with knowledge of the city and its people, mixed with social comment, ingenious and bloody plots and sharp observational skills leavened by more than a smattering of genuine and sometimes earthy humour * Crime Review *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of Leaving Berlin comes an explosive and richly imagined thriller set in the early days of the Cold War.  SOME SECRETS SHOULD NEVER BE TOLDMoscow, 1961: With the launch of Sputnik, the Soviet Union's international prestige is at an all-time high. And the most notorious of the defectors to the Soviet Union, former CIA agent Frank Weeks, is about to publish his memoir. What he reveals will send shock waves through the West. Weeks' defection in the early 1950s shook Washington to its core – and forced the resignation of his brother, Simon, from the State Department. Simon, now a publisher in New York, is given the opportunity to read and publish his brother’s memoir. He knows the US government will never approve the publication of what is clearly intended as KGB propaganda. Yet the offer is irresistible: it will finally give him the chance to learn why his brothTrade Review‘Kanon is fast approaching the complexity and relevance not just of le Carré and Greene but even of Orwell’ * New York Times *‘Clever, devious and morally complex’ * Sunday Times *‘The perfect combination of intrigue and accurate history brought to life’ -- Alan Furst'Sensational! No one writes period fiction with the same style and suspense – not to mention substance – as Joseph Kanon' -- Scott Turow‘Joseph Kanon owns this corner of the literary landscape and it’s a joy to see him reassert his title with such emphatic authority’ -- Lee Child

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Book Synopsis‘A true master of British crime writing’ RICHARD OSMAN 'The brilliant Savernake is a fascinatingly enigmatic character.' WASHINGTON POST A superb Golden Age mystery packed with twists, from the winner of the Diamond Dagger 2020 LONDON, 1930 The night is sooty, sulphurous, and malign. A spate of violent deaths has horrified the capital and the smog-bound streets are deserted. No woman should be out on a night like this. But Rachel Savernake is no ordinary woman. To Scotland Yard's embarrassment, she solved the Chorus Girl Murder, and now – along with journalist Jacob Flint – she's on the trail of another killer. Savernake and Flint's pursuit of the truth will mire them ever-deeper into a labyrinth of deception and corruption. Murder-by-murder, they will be swept ever-closer to that ancient place of execution, where it all began and where it will finally end: Gallows Court. Reviews for Gallows Court: 'Superb – a pitch-perfect blend of Golden Age charm and sinister modern suspense, with a main character to die for. This is the book Edwards was born to write' Lee Child 'Packed with evocative period detail, twists and turns and a fascinatingly enigmatic anti-heroine' Financial Times 'Edwards has managed, brilliantly, to combine a Golden Age setting with a pace that is bang up-to-date. A great sense of the era observed through a cut-throat-sharp eye, every page dripping with brilliant period authenticity' Peter James 'A ripping tale of retribution and rough justice, set against a finely realised 1930s London. It reads as if Ruth Rendell were channelling Edgar Wallace' Mick Herron 'Liberally spiced with mystery, suspense and action... A thoroughly gripping read' Peter RobinsonTrade ReviewEdwards has managed, brilliantly, to combined a Golden Age setting with a pace that is bang up to date. A great sense of the era observed through a cut-throat-sharp eye, every page dripping with brilliant period authenticity -- Peter JamesA ripping tale of retribution and rough justice, set against a finely realised 1930s London. It reads as if Ruth Rendell were channelling Edgar Wallace -- Mick HerronA mean plot liberally spiced with mystery, suspense and action. A thoroughly gripping read! -- Peter RobinsonEdwards has set a satisfyingly twisty plot against the satisfyingly murky background of 1930s London -- Simon BrettThis is no country house murder mystery, however, but a fast-paced and assured thriller set in 1930s London; it'll keep you reading, breathless, until the very last page -- Ann CleevesThe writing is sumptuous, the evocation of the period – down to the finest detail – glorious, and the mystery itself a wonderfully refreshing take on the "psychological noir" genre. The twist – and the terrible secret at the heart of the murders – are twin stings in the tail of a classy and beautifully crafted novel -- Vaseem KhanUtterly compelling from start to finish, truly satisfying twists and turns and a wonderful heroine at its dark heart. I loved every single page of it -- Robert ThorogoodEverything we have come to expect from Martin Edwards: a lovely sense of place, a tight plot, dry humor, and deftly drawn characters. Welcome to the Thirties! -- Laurie R KingMartin Edwards brings the Golden Age of crime fiction back, with a unique twist, in this superbly crafted mystery set in the 1930s. A rare treat! * Ragnar Jonasson *Highly entertaining – a delightful, old-fashioned mystery to be savoured -- Shari LapenaIngenious and pacey, Gallows Court keeps you guessing right to the end * The Times *Far more unconventional and psychologically disturbing than most crime fiction of the period, this novel brings that low, dishonest decade to life with mesmerising skill * Sunday Express *Historical crime can sometimes suffer from a sentimental view of the period in which it's set. Edwards deftly avoids this cliché, depicting London as dark, grimy and cowering in the face of killings... I'm sure Edwards' existing fans will love this change of tone but he should also garner new readers for his excellent fiction' * CrimePieces *Packed with evocative period detail, twists and turns and a fascinatingly enigmatic anti-heroine * Financial Times *A varied cast of characters ranging from the glamorous and romantic to the decidedly shady... A fast-moving patchwork puzzle that will satisfy both traditional crime readers and more modern ones who enjoy a drop of moral complexity and darkness in their brew' * Crime Time *The plot is complex but satisfying... Brings the 1930s to life and looks at that restless, inter-war decade in a new and fascinating way. It is a book well worth reading and which I would recommend' * Mystery People *A fabulous melodrama, atmospheric and entertaining * Morning Star *Edwards crafts vivid descriptions of both character and setting that embed the reader into the scene in a way few writers can achieve * NY Journal of Books *Martin Edwards has recreated the period beautifully in this gripping and bloodthirsty thriller... It is compulsive reading: a truly satisfying crime novel' * The Press *

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Book SynopsisNew York Times bestselling author Anne Perry brings us the second exciting instalment in her new thriller series, set in a time of increasing fear and violence across Europe in the 1930s and featuring British photographer and secret agent Elena Standish. It is the autumn of 1933 and, fresh from her exploits in Berlin, young British photographer Elena Standish is chosen for a secret assignment in Trieste to establish contact with an MI6 agent whose handler has gone missing, presumed dead. Elena''s mission is to bring back the agent along with top secret information that could save the lives of thousands of people. But the agent is none other than Aiden Strother, the lover who broke Elena''s heart six years ago when he betrayed his country. With the revelation from MI6 that Aiden is, in fact, a loyal double agent, Elena knows she must put her sense of duty before her personal pride. But with political tension growing across Europe, the unstoTrade ReviewMasterful! It's exceedingly rare for an author to have the talent to blend classic elements of a thriller with compelling family dynamics and geopolitical intrigue, but Anne Perry pulls it off like the consummate pro that she is. And, on top of all that, Death in Focus is written in her unique literary voice. And I guarantee you'll love Elena Standish! Brava! -- Jeffery DeaverAnne Perry's Victorian mysteries are marvels of plot construction... truly remarkable * New York Times *There is a freshness about [Perry's] writing which makes it truly exceptional and I was gripped until the final page. Death on Blackheath was one of the best books I've read this year and I cannot recommend it highly enough * Euro crime *Elegantly constructed and nail-bitingly tense * Good Book Guide *The investigation concludes in a hold-your-breath trial... A brilliant Victorian police procedural in which well-realized characters and settings are fascinating in themselves * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisHarrison''s seventh Reverend Mother whodunit stands out as her trickiest yet . Fans of historical puzzle mysteries will be delighted - Publishers Weekly Starred ReviewMoney is the root of all evil, according to the Reverend Mother - but is it the motive for her cousin''s murder?Wealthy widow Charlotte Hendrick had always promised that her riches would be divided equally between her seven closest relatives when she died. Now she has changed her mind and summoned her nearest and dearest, including her cousin, the Reverend Mother, to her substantial home on Bachelor''s Quay to inform them of her decision. As Mrs Hendrick''s relatives desperately make their case to retain a share of her wealth, riots break out on the quays outside as the flood waters rise ...The following morning, a body is discovered in the master bedroom, its throat cut. Could there be a connection to the riots of the night before - or does the killer l

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Book SynopsisEdward Marston has written well over a hundred books, including some non-fiction. He is best known for his hugely successful Railway Detective series and he also writes the Bow Street Rivals series featuring twin detectives set during the Regency; the Home Front Detective novels set during the First World War; and the Ocean Liner mysteries.Trade Review`This is how history mysteries should be: fine storytelling, marvellous characters reminiscent of the great authors of the mid-Victorian period, and a sneaky mystery, too' Sherlock Magazine

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Book SynopsisA Catholic cop tracks an IRA master bomber amidst the sectarian violence of the conflict in Northern Ireland in this pulse-pounding thriller from the New York Times bestselling and Edgar Awardwinning author Adrian McKinty.McKinty's writing is dark and witty with gritty realism, spot-on dialogue, and fascinating characters. Chicago Sun-TimesIt''s the early 1980s in Belfast. Sean Duffy, a conflicted Catholic cop in the Protestant RUC (Royal Ulster Constabulary), is recruited by MI5 to hunt down Dermot McCann, an IRA master bomber who has made a daring escape from the notorious Maze prison. In the course of his investigations Sean discovers a woman who may hold the key to Dermot''s whereabouts; she herself wants justice for her daughter who died in mysterious circumstances in a pub locked from the inside. Sean knows that if he can crack the locked-room mystery, the bigger mystery of Dermot''s whereabouts might be revealed to him as a reward. Meanwhile the clock is ticking down to the Conservative Party conference in Brighton in 1984, where Mrs. Thatcher is due to give a keynote speech

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Book SynopsisA BOOK OF THE YEAR IN DAILY EXPRESS, I AND IRISH INDEPENDENT'Thrilling, mysterious, twisted' Graham Norton'Utterly mesmerising . . . A triumph' New York Times Book Review'Delivers chills galore' GuardianThe case of the extraordinary child . . .London, 1863. A strange puzzle has reached Bridie Devine, the finest female detective of her age. To recover a stolen child, Bridie must enter the dark world of medical curiosities. The public love a spectacle and this child may well prove the most remarkable spectacle London has ever seen.Things in Jars is a Victorian novel unlike any other, one that explores what it is to be human in inhumane times.Trade ReviewI loved Himself and The Hoarder but this book takes things to another level - thrilling, mysterious, twisted but more than anything, beautifully written and filled to bursting point with heart -- GRAHAM NORTONUtterly mesmerising . . . A triumph. Kidd's imagination - her ability to imagine a world more magical, darker, richer than our own - is a thing of wonder. She rummages through the layers of Victorian society as if through an old steamer trunk, pulling up all variety of treasures, like pythons and heads in hatboxes * * New York Times Book Review * *This unusual Victorian detective tale is hugely satisfying and beautifully written . . . Kidd gives the world what is instantly one of fiction's great spectral double acts * * The Times * *Jess Kidd's stories are so magical, she should be a genre all to herself . . . Things in Jars is exquisite. Perfect storytelling -- JOANNA CANNON, author of THE TROUBLE WITH GOATS AND SHEEPThis pacy piece of Victorian crime fiction delivers chills galore . . . done with panache . . . Her imagination runs wild, in tightly controlled prose. Her concision makes the book feel like a high-pressure jar * * Guardian * *A twisting, precis-defying plot . . . Arresting, funny and well-written * * Sunday Times * *An extraordinary tale full of dark magic, wicked humour and hugely entertaining characters. An absolute treat! -- RUTH HOGAN, author of THE KEEPER OF LOST THINGSKidd writes prose that is full to the brim with life, and overflowing. Victorian London is rendered lavishly in all its stench and glory . . . Features the most endearing of heroines . . . Kidd excels at atmospheric description . . . Kidd's sentences contain so much delight in the language, whether conveying brutality or rescue and repair, that there are frequent jolts of pleasure for the reader . . . Revel in the rich, wild text * * Financial Times * *A masterclass in storytelling. One of those books that truly does make you laugh out loud, that shakes and remakes what you think a story can be. It's rare to find a book so satisfying -- KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVEIf there was an Oscar ceremony for books, then Kidd's Victorian mystery Things in Jars would surely sweep the board . . . Timeless . . . Knife-sharp * * Irish Times * *

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Book SynopsisA haunting story of inescapable passion amidst the groves of 1920s Tuscany.When Carrie Stowe unexpectedly inherits her eccentric grandmother’s Italian villa, she sets her heart on escaping the suffocating and toxic reality of life with her repressive husband, Arthur.But after arriving late at night during a violent storm, she discovers that she is not alone. Waiting for her in the darkness is Leo, a mysterious figure from her past.As Carrie sifts through the secrets of her grandmother’s diaries, she finds herself increasingly drawn to Leo. Entangled in a vice of obsession, she must ask herself: is he really who he claims to be?The Italian House is a spellbinding saga perfect for fans of Victoria Hislop and Elena Ferrante.Praise for The Italian House 'A wonderfully rich web of intrigue and romance, love and betrayal' Barbara Erskine

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Book Synopsis'One of the greatest anti-heroes ever written' LEE CHILDBerlin, March 1943. The mood in Germany is bleak after their stunning defeat at Stalingrad. Private Investigator Bernie Gunther is at work in the German War Crimes Bureau - weary, cynical but well aware of the value of truth in a world where that's now a rarity. When human remains are found deep in the Katyn Forest, Bernie is sent to investigate. Rumour has it that this mass grave is full of Polish officers murdered by the Russians. For Josef Goebbels, proof of Russian involvement is sure to destroy the Western Alliance, giving Germany a chance to reverse its devastating losses. But supposing the truth is far more damaging to the German cause? It's Bernie Gunther's job to give Goebbels what he needs. But when there's nothing left for Gunther to lose, the compulsion to speak the truth becomes ever stronger...Trade ReviewOne of the greatest anti-heroes ever written * Lee Child *Richly layered . . . reliably remarkable on every level * The Sunday Times *A compelling, elegantly constructed thriller * Financial Times *Kerr leads us through the facts of history and the vagaries of human nature * Tom Hanks *Bitterly, darkly funny * Sunday Herald *Humour seems like an affirmation of the human spirit in a world in which inhumanity holds sway, and makes Kerr's brilliant novels all the more affecting * Daily Telegraph *One of the greatest master story-tellers in English * Alan Furst *The real pleasure in these books is in Kerr's total mastery of the world he's created * Sport *[Kerr's] Raymond Chandleresque mysteries about a cynical Berlin cop reluctantly working for the Nazis are his masterpiece * Sun *Kerr's novels are modern classics * Simon Sebag Montefiore *A detailed and nuanced portrait of Nazi Germany * Spectator *Kerr is at the top of his game with his Hitler-era Berlin detective, Bernie Gunther * Tribune *The good detective trying to do his best within a corrupt regime [. . .] but it can safely be said that few writers have tackled the theme with the rigour of Philip Kerr * Independent *One of the most memorable and original characters * The Sunday Times *'Compelling ... Elegantly constructed' Financial Times. * Financial Times *'Richly layered ... Remarkable' Sunday Times. * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisIn the shadow of the Berlin Wall, murder is never an open-and-shut case . . .The award-winning, critically acclaimed Cold War crime thriller set in East Berlin - perfect for fans of Tom Rob Smith, Phillip Kerr and Joseph Kanon.____________________________________East Berlin, 1975 - When Oberleutnant Karin Müller is called to investigate a teenage girl's body at the foot of the Wall, she imagines she's seen it all before. But when she arrives she realises this is a death like no other. It seems the girl was trying to escape - but from the West.Müller is a member of the People's Police, but in East Germany her power only stretches so far. The Stasi want her to discover the identity of the girl, but assure her the case is otherwise closed - and strongly discourage her from asking questions.The evidence doesn't add up, and it soon becomes clear the crime scene has been staged. But this is not a regime that tolerates a curious mind, and Müller doesn't realise that the trail she's following will lead her dangerously close to home . . .Stunningly authentic and brimming with moral ambiguity, STASI CHILD is the thrilling debut thriller for fans of Child 44 and An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris.____________________________________Praise for David Young:'Excellent' The Times'Thrilling' William Ryan'Masterful' Daily Express'Fast-paced' The Sun'Superb. Reminded me of Robert Harris at his best' Mason Cross'Up there with Martin Cruz Smith and the other greats of the field' Abir MukherjeeTrade ReviewAn exceptionally fluid mystery that holds the reader gripped. Reminiscent of Fatherland and AD Miller's Snowdrops, Stasi Child heralds a bold new voice - and character - in historical crime. * NetGalley Book of the Month *Deep and dark, this debut is utterly gripping, sucking you in straight from the get go. Fascinating backdrop, well observed characters and a corker of an ending. Superb. -- Nikki Owen (author of The Spider in the Corner of the Room)Stasi Child is great read - not just for the story itself (exciting and gripping as it is) - but also because it brings back most vividly a time that most of us have forgotten . . . David Young has researched the book extensively, and its believability shines through. * tripfiction.com *Stasi Child captures the mood of the time, place and ideology brilliantly . . . The fact that Stasi Child is a debut novel makes it all the more remarkable. I really hope Karin Müller returns, and in the not too distant future . . . a deeply atmospheric and haunting read. * For Winter Nights *David Young captures the claustrophobic atmosphere of the communist regime...filled with corruption, and violence, this gripping thriller, with an amazing ending, will have you racing through the pages. * Pick Me Up Magazine *A promising debut, an astutely considered novel of detection and place, redolent of dread, paranoia and suspicion. If you are a fan of Philip Kerr's Bernie Gunther series, this will appeal. Though it's stylistically more sober than Kerr's noirish novels, the Berlin background is just as authentically realised. Young demonstrates he has not only a fine heroine but a nice eye for action, claustrophobic detail and a lurking, just-under-control sense of the gothic. -- Graeme Blundell * The Australian, ARTS *A self-confessed obsessive , Young's period detail - what kind of tyre tracks Stasi official's cars left - is impressive. -- Greg Fleming * New Zealand Herald *The story may be basically at heart be a police procedural (and a grand read even then) but what sets its apart and much above is the most - painstakingly-researched and rendered - millieu it is set in - a society where anyone has to be cautiously watchful in all interactions - even be it family of friend and life for any moral individual is a struggle to maintain integrity when loyalty and obedience take higher precedence over truth * bignewsnetwork.com *The premise is brilliant and the pacing just right - but what really carries it is the hauntingly atmospheric depiction of Berlin under communism's iron fist -- Rod Reynold * Metro *Subtle, intelligent and gripping in equal measure, Stasi Child simply oozes authenticity, vividly recreating the fear and suspicion that characterised life in the East German police state. It's a remarkable achievement and marks Young out as one of the best, up there with Martin Cruz Smith and the other greats of the field. * Abir Mukherjee, author of A Rising Man *Stasi Child is a hugely enjoyable blend of police procedural, cold war thriller and high octane action. A whip-crack of a read * Paul D Brazil *

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Book SynopsisHow do you solve a murder when you can't ask any questions? The gripping new thriller from the bestselling, award-winning author of Stasi Child.East Germany, 1975. Karin Müller, sidelined from the murder squad in Berlin, jumps at the chance to be sent south to Halle-Neustadt, where a pair of infant twins have gone missing.But Müller soon finds her problems have followed her. Halle-Neustadt is a new town - the pride of the communist state - and she and her team are forbidden by the Stasi from publicising the disappearances, lest they tarnish the town's flawless image.Meanwhile, in the eerily nameless streets and tower blocks, a child snatcher lurks, and the clock is ticking to rescue the twins alive . . .'This fast-paced thriller hooks the readers from the start' The Sun'A masterful evocation of the claustrophobic atmosphere of communist era East Germany . . . an intricate, absorbing page-turner' Daily Express'The perfect blend of action, suspense and excitement. This is top notch crime! I will be shouting about this book to everyone, everywhere. Northern Crime'One of the most fascinating and original detectives in contemporary crime fiction . . . a hugely accomplished novel' (For Winter Nights)'For me David Young has cemented his place on the bookshelf alongside my Cold War thrillers by John le Carré and Len Deighton' The Quiet KnitterTrade Review'Willkommen back to Oberleutnant Karin Müller, who debuted last year in the acclaimed Stasi Child. She's landed another complicated case, made even more tricky by the fact that we're in East Germany in 1975, and second-guessing the dreaded Stasi is a matter of life and death, even for the police. Against the grim background of a socialist-paradise new town - which makes Milton Keynes look like St Mary Mead - Müller is on the trail of a child-kidnapper.' -- Karen Robinson * The Sunday Times Crime Club *I think this is a genuinely beautiful cover, which works well alongside the first in the series. The way the background becomes impossible to see in the distance is completely appropriate in a world where political machinations continually obscure the truth, and the icy coldness of the whole scene reminds me of the brutality at the heart of the East German regime. Perfect * Buried under Books *'A cracking little read...Young is a master at evoking a sense of place and time...He also captures something of the vague sense of menace that surrounded socialist Germany in the 1970s, when the book is set...His writing is fantastic and his story lines hook you in and keep you entertained.' * Social Bookshelves *'The perfect blend of action, suspense and excitement. The era is captured magnificently. Young is a superb storyteller, weaving in more of the backstory of Karin Muller with a highly emotive story. This is top notch crime! I will be shouting about this book to everyone, everywhere.' * Northern Crime *'one of the most fascinating and original detectives in contemporary crime fiction. Incredible as it seems, Stasi Wolf is even better, taking us back into the dangerous, chilly setting of the DDR, where spies hide among neighbours and Stasi eyes keep watch. Stasi Wolf is a hugely accomplished novel, scoring high as both historical fiction and crime fiction. I love both genres and so I couldn't have been more entertained by it. This is a series with legs and we're very lucky to have it.' * For Winter Nights *'we are treated to a series of inspired twists and turns including the surprising secret of Muller's origins...masterful evocation of the claustrophobic atmosphere of communist era East Germany...intricate, absorbing page turner.' * The Daily Express *'Historically accurate, this fast-paced thriller hooks the readers from the start.' * The Sun *'history, politics, crime, thrills- all here in this budding series' * Sport Newspaper *'David Young has the ability to transport his reader to the setting of his books and allow them to explore the vastness through his words, the vivid details in this book bring to mind the atmosphere and surroundings of Cold War Germany so effortlessly. For me David Young has cemented his place on the bookshelf alongside my Cold War thrillers by John le Carré and Len Deighton.' * The Quiet Knitter *'Young's descriptives are brilliant, there isn't a word too much or too little to allow the reader to be swept away and into the pages. All in all this was a really great and enjoyable read. I would really recommend this book, Young's depth of writing and descriptives make for a thrilling read!' * Emma the Little Bookworm *'David Young has crafted an engaging story which I found utterly compelling and wholly absorbing. I know nothing of 1970's Germany but the world was expertly woven around me as I read Stasi Wolf. David Young can tell a cracking story, Stasi Wolf should be on your reading list.' * Grab This Book *'Stasi Wolf is yet another great police procedural thriller from David Young. It's gripping and well paced, with a good mix of action and tension, and an authentic multi-layered plot.' * Off the Shelf reviews *'What is most impressive in this novel is the way the author evokes the cold war era, both visually and emotionally. David Young skillfully brings the repressive (terrifying) threat of the Stasi organization and the institutional feel of the new city into vivid existence. David Young has created a memorable character in Karin Muller and an unforgettable atmosphere of life in a bleak and repressive regime.' * Book Garden *'a glimpse into East Germany in the 1970s and its social relations and paranoia and resistance...and the character of Karin Müller, who is determined to succeed as a murder detective despite widespread misogyny and difficult internal politics.' * View from the Blue House *'There is little to fault in the author's masterly recreation of the claustrophobic atmosphere and all-pervasive sense of suspicion, typical in any totalitarian state. The tone and feel of everyday life in the GDR is pitch-perfect, from the Wartburgs and S-Bahns to the Vita Colas and lengthy party meetings in the workplace. The author has been very diligent about doing his research and many of the least believable plot details are based on true facts, as you will discover if you read the afterword. The dialogue is full of tension, nearly always full of hidden menace and double speak, and each of the characters has learnt not to take anything at face value.' * Crime Fiction Lover *David Young has captured the characters well, and the hints he leaves about some of the characters creating a well-thought out sense of mystery, and his backdrop of the Stasi controlled East Germany ensured a story that had many twists and turns, and complex and flawed characters, in a world where knowing who to trust was hard. It was a great novel, and I hope the series will continue. * The Book Muse Australia *Young's research is meticulous and he is scrupulous in taking a neutral-ish approach. I hope there will be more in this series. * Cafe Thinking *The narrative neatly moves between 1975 and preceding years and as the book progresses these latter years come ever closer, a nice touch to slowly, teasingly disclose the truth behind the disappearances...As with "Stasi Child", Young describes the former DDR with clarity and realism, as he does the atmosphere which clearly existed... An enjoyable read. * The Journal of the Law Society of Scotland *

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Book SynopsisA bloody murder. An open and shut case? In Oliver Cromwell's London, nothing is as it seems - Captain Damian Seeker must battle to find justice, when an innocent man's life hangs in the balance.'Challenges CJ Sansom for dominion of historical crime' Sunday Times'The best historical crime novel of the year' Sunday ExpressLondon, 1654. Oliver Cromwell is at the height of his power and has declared himself Lord Protector. Captain Damian Seeker is his most trusted agent. No one knows where Seeker comes from, who his family is, or even his real name. All that is known for certain is that he is utterly loyal to Cromwell and that he has eyes everywhere.In the city, coffee houses are springing up, places where men may meet to plot and gossip. Now they are ringing with news of a murder. John Winter, hero of Cromwell's all-powerful army, is dead, and the lawyer, Elias Ellingworth, found standing over the bleeding body, clutching a knife.Yet despite the damning evidence, Seeker is not convinced of Ellingworth's guilt. He will stop at nothing to bring the killer to justice: and Seeker knows better than any man where to search.******************************************What Readers Are Saying About The Seeker'Tremendous thrilling mystery' 5* Reader Review'Well developed characters' 5* Reader Review'Fantastic!' 5* Reader Review'A wonderful discovery of 17th century London' 5* Reader ReviewTrade ReviewThe contradictions and compromises of Cromwell's Proctectorate are rather brilliantly woven into the thrilling plot . . . If her next outing is as riveting as this one, she could challenge CJ Sansoms' Shardlake for dominion of the crowded historical crime niche. * The Times *

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