Historical crime and mysteries

Book Synopsis A heatwave melts London as Holmes and Watson are called to action in this new Sherlock Holmes adventure by Bonnie MacBird, author of “one of the best Sherlock Holmes novels of recent memory.” Trade Review“MacBird’s artistry will keep readers eagerly turning the pages.”—Michael Dirda, Washington Post “Intriguing … MacBird artfully alternates among multiple plotlines, maximizing suspense. With its deep probe into the friendship between the detective and the doctor, this is a good choice for fans of Sherlock Holmes.” —Publishers Weekly “Perfectly captures the essence of Conan Doyle's fiction.'—Independent “Bonnie MacBird’s The Three Locks satisfies a hunger for more adventures of Holmes and Watson on so many levels. Not only does she perfectly capture their voices, she captures that most critical element—their humanity. Brava!”—Leslie S. Klinger, editor, New Annotated Sherlock Holmes “Bonnie MacBird’s sly plot and admirable sense of pacing keeps the story twisting and turning in a way that would have kept Doyle himself turning the pages.”—Michael Sims, author of Arthur and Sherlock: Conan Doyle and the Creation of Holmes “Though stage magic features in The Three Locks, the real magician is author Bonnie MacBird, who once again brings humour, action, rigorous period detail, and the characters we love to her latest Holmes adventure.”—Dennis Palumbo, author of Writing from the Inside Out “Bonnie MacBird has conjured up a captivating three-card monte of murder, mystery and magic. The Three Locks may be her best yet.”—Dan Stashower, author of Teller of Tales: The Life of Arthur Conan Doyle “Skilfully intertwining three very different mysteries, Bonnie MacBird’s fourth Sherlock Holmes novel is as intriguing as it is clever.”—Love London, Love Culture “MacBird's series grows stronger with each book and she remains the best and most faithful pastiche writer out there today – bar none.”—The Doylockian “This splendid romp of a novel is packed with twists and turns, effortlessly capturing the chaotic energy of Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes.”—Cambridge Edition

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Book SynopsisCreepy and compelling' HARRIET TYCEBrilliant filled with tension and twists' SARAH PINBOROUGHAn unsettling, terrifying thriller' ABIGAIL DEANMasterclass in suspense' THE TIMESWill have you up all night with the lights on' ELLEWhat if your mother had been writing to a serial killer?A convicted murderer with a story to tellSerial killer Michael Reave known as The Red Wolf has been locked in Belmarsh Prison for over 20 years for the brutal and ritualistic murders of countless women.A grieving daughter with a secret to unearthEx-journalist Heather Evans returns to her childhood home after her mother's inexplicable suicide and discovers something chilling hundreds of letters between her mother and Reave, dating back decades.A hunt for a killer ready to strike againWhen the body of a woman is found decorated with flowers, just like his victims, Reave is the only person alive who could help. After years of silence, he will speak to Heather, and only Heather.If she wants to unearth the truTrade Review‘Reminiscent of Sharp Objects, this chilling British serial killer thriller had me gripped. Filled with tension and twists, Jen Williams manages to deftly unravel the killer’s dark and deadly secrets to an ending that you won’t see coming’ Sarah Pinborough, Sunday Times Bestselling author of Behind Her Eyes ‘An unsettling pastoral thriller, which grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. Part-Midsommar, part-Hereditary, part-Mindhunter – and entirely terrifying’ Abigail Dean, author of Girl A ‘It’s dark as a Grimm fairy tale and brimming with secrets. With its terrifying story of a serial killer, and the woman who’s recently uncovered her mother’s connection to him, this novel will appeal to – and deeply chill – fans of true crime’ Megan Collins, author of The Winter Sister ‘A clever, chilling crime novel with a perplexing mystery, compelling storytelling and vivid characters’ Jane Casey ‘A taut and stylish thriller … Riveting from the first page’ E.G Scott, bestselling author of The Woman Inside ‘Intense and with a seam of gallows humour, Dog Rose Dirt is terrifying, fun, and insightful’ Nathan Ripley, bestselling author of Find You in the Dark ‘Creepy and compelling, [Dog Rose Dirt] is a truly disturbing take on a serial killer narrative. I read it heart in mouth!’ Harriet Tyce, Sunday Times Bestselling author of Blood Orange ‘Masterfully plotted and heart-poundingly tense, Jen Williams combines British folklore, cults, and the most chilling serial killer to grace the page in years – creating a thriller that's both mesmerising, and utterly terrifying’ Katie Lowe, author of The Furies ‘A tense, gripping and original read, with one of the creepiest serial killers I’ve encountered in a long time’ Amy McCulloch

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Book SynopsisDon't miss Faith Martin's fiendishly clever new novel, Murder by Candlelight, set in the 1920s and described as the perfect village mystery' by J.M. HallThe pairing of Ryder and Loveday is a stroke of genius.' Clare Chase, author of the Eve Mallow and Tara Thorpe mysteriesShe was dressed in a long white gown, embroidered with tiny flowers. Her body was wrapped in colourful ribbons that floated in the breeze. But underneath the swathe of golden hair, a string of darkly smudged bruises ringed her neck.As May Day dawns in the peaceful village of Middle Fenton, a young woman is found brutally strangled, her body tied up with ribbons in the middle of the green. A week later, her boyfriend is found hanged in a local barn, and the police assume guilt over murdering his beloved has driven him to suicide but not everyone is convinced.WPC Trudy Loveday and coroner Clement Ryder are sent to investigate, and quickly realise that there's a double murderer on the loose.But the killer has already shTrade ReviewPraIse for the Ryder & Loveday series:‘A beautifully crafted crime mystery I could not put down.’ Anita Davison, author of the Flora Maguire series ‘A brilliant book! The pairing of Ryder and Loveday is a stroke of genius.’ Clare Chase, author of the Eve Mallow and Tara Thorpe mysteries ‘Absolutely loved it… The characters were some of the best I’ve read in a long time.’ Angela Marsons, no. 1 bestselling author of the Kim Stone series

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Book SynopsisA thrilling new whodunnit series, fast-paced and funny, featuring a detective as sharp as his suits and a heroine who's trouble.3000 years ago Iron Age people carved a White Horse on the Downs near Uffington Castle and now someone has dumped a body there. Laid out like a ceremonial killing, Detective Inspector Leo George isn''t convinced that the murder is what it appears.He suspects the young femalevictim may have been a member of the Children of the White Horse, a secretive valley commune, but none of the cult members are talking. That is until he discovers his friend, Jess Bridges, is undercover in the commune, attempting to persuade a wayward young woman to leave the cult.Leo is confronted by the fact that Jess is heading right into the heart of a mystery that has less to do with ancient gods than it does modern vices, and there is nothing old about spilling bloodTrade ReviewPraise for the Jess Bridges Mystery series: ‘It makes your veins thrill with adrenaline!’ 5* Amazon reviewer ‘One of the most exciting female characters I’ve met this year!’ 5* Amazon reviewer ‘Be prepared to be on the edge of your seat.’ 5* Amazon reviewer ‘Chilling, mind baffling, and gripping’ 5* Amazon reviewer ‘Incredibly addictive!’ 5* Amazon reviewer ‘Entertaining, action-packed and well written’ 5* Goodreads reviewer ‘I did not want to put it down.’ 5* Goodreads reviewer

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Book SynopsisHistorical fiction at its best' Reader reviewThe Tattooist of Auschwitz meets Girl with a Pearl Earring in this gripping, dual-timeline historical novel about one of Leonardo da Vinci''s most famous paintingsand the woman who fought to save it from the Nazis.Simply a masterpiece Fans of Kristin Hannah'sNightingaleand Anthony Doerr'sAll the Light We Cannot Seewill delight in this epic novel' Lori Nelson SpielmanBetween 1939 and 1943, the Nazis attempted to steal every known painting by Leonardo Da Vinci, imprisoning the original owners or worse. This is the story of the most infamous of these theftsMunich, 1939In fear of the brutal Nazi regime, art conservator Edith Becker is forced to find one of the world's most priceless works of art and hand it over to none other than Hans Frank the Butcher of Poland.Confronted by the horrors she witnesses in Poland and risking her own life, Edith tries to hide her own small acts of resistance and avoid the unpredictable gaze of Frank himself.MilaTrade Review‘Absolutely splendid’ Booklist ‘Wonderfully intertwined, quiet tale set during unquiet times reveals truths about the human character and the will to survive… The theme of survival appears often in the narrative, connected to both people and objects alike and creating another layer for readers to enjoy’ Library Journal ‘Set in Poland and Germany during World War II, The Night Portrait chronicles the ultimate of art heists, those of Nazis stealing the artistic patrimony—including Da Vinci’s great “Lady with an Ermine.” In a brilliantly written narrative that deftly cuts back and forth between the 15th and the 20th centuries, Morelli brings to vivid life the attempts by a German art restorer and an American soldier to rescue works of art from the destruction of war. This is a compelling story of two heroic people, of the young Cecelia who posed for Da Vinci, the artist, and the times they lived in.’ Frances Mayes ‘A compelling page turner at the same time as it is a mesmerizing meditation on legacy, guilt and complicity, the horrors of war, and most of all, the singular power of art’-Alyssa Palombo, author of THE BORGIA CONFESSIONS ‘A gorgeous and propulsive novel that brings to dramatic life the stories of Leonardo da Vinci, the subject of one of his most famous paintings, and the Monuments Men's quest to rescue that masterpiece from the Nazis during World War II’-Stephanie Storey, author of OIL AND MARBLE and RAPHAEL, PAINTER IN ROME ‘An astonishing, epic tale that seamlessly spans centuries of history and art, encompassing the beauty of the Renaissance and the horrible truths of Nazi Germany. Masterfully imagined and unforgettable, this riveting novel shows us the power of art to bring hope in a world of despair’-Crystal King, author of THE CHEF’S SECRET and FEAST OF SORROW

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Book SynopsisA sensational wartime crime novel about a BBC announcer who abuses his position to commit crimes against the rich and famousBy day Ernest Bisham is a velvet-voiced announcer for the BBC; the whole country recognises the sound of his meticulous pronouncements. By night, however, Mr Bisham is a cat-burglar, careless about his loot, but revelling in the danger and excitement of his running contest with Scotland Yard. But as he gets away with more and more daring escapades, there will come a time when he goes too far . . .When Donald Henderson's Mr Bowling Buys a Newspaper caused something of a sensation, his publishers were keen to capitalise on their author's popularity, quickly reissuing The Announcer (originally published under his pen-name D. H. Landels') with the more alluring title A Voice Like Velvet. Despite a small edition of just 3,000 copies, it was his best reviewed work, as suspenseful and offbeat as his earlier success.This Detective Club classic includes an introduction by Trade Review‘Skilfuly written and quietly suspenseful’–Martin Edwards ‘Combines a psychopathic study with [an] effective hare and hounds adventure’–Kirkus Reviews ‘Ah, just the sort of book I like’–Daily Express ‘People who have a weakness for stories about gentlemen crooks—and judging by the popularity of Raffles, Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford, etc., there are thousands of them—will be delighted to make the acquaintance of Ernest Bisham.’

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Book SynopsisThe brand new unmissable adventure novel for fans of Scott Mariani, Dan Brown and Daniel Silva

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Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times bestselling new historical fiction novel: an atmospheric tale of crime, deceit, and murder, set in the early 1920s

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Book SynopsisThe gripping new historical novel from the USA Today bestselling author of The Girl from Bletchley Park and The Forgotten Secret.A heartbreaking choice. A secret kept for centuries.***1784. When Esther Harris's father hurts his back, she takes over his role helping smugglers hide contraband in the secret cellar in their pub. But when the free traders' ships are trapped in the harbour, a battle between the smugglers and the revenue officers leads to murder and betrayal and Esther is forced to choose between the love of her life and protecting her familyPresent day. Fresh from her divorce, Millie Galton moves into a former inn overlooking the harbour in Mudeford and plans to create her dream home. When a chance discovery behind an old fireplace reveals the house's secret history as a haven for smugglers and the devastating story of its former residents, could the mystery of a disappearance from centuries ago finally be solved?Sweeping historical fiction perfect for fans of Soraya Lane,

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Book SynopsisA sultry, immersive exploration of 30s New York with a taut plot and a vivid soundtrack. The perfect escape evocative, smooth prose' Harriet Tyce, Sunday Times bestselling authorThis atmospheric snapshot of 1930s New York is utterly unputdownable' Woman's OwnEntertaining' The Sunday Times* * *1936, September 17th, 1amIn the middle of Harlem, in the dead of night, a woman falls from a second storey window. In her hand, she holds a passport and the name written on it is Lena AldridgeNine days earlierLena arrived in Harlem less than two weeks ago, full of hope for her burgeoning romance with Will Goodman, the handsome musician she met on board the Queen Mary. Will has arranged for Lena to stay with friends of his, and this will give her the chance to find out if their relationship is going anywhere. But there is another reason she''s in Harlem to find out what happened in 1908 to make her father flee to London.As Lena''s investigations progress, not only does she realise her father lied

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Book SynopsisGET OUT. BEFORE THEY SAVE YOU.Trade Review'You are likely to be so distracted by [the beauty of the writing] that you realise you have missed the story … and the only thing to do is go back and start all over again. If ever a book deserved to become a classic, The Ripping Tree does' The Canberra Times 'An immersive tale of intrigue, friendship and female independence. Think Sofia Coppola's The Beguiled meets Peter Weir's Picnic at Hanging Rock' Sydney Morning Herald 'A beautifully descriptive yet unsettling tale of survival' Herald Sun 'Nikki Gemmell's new novel proceeds in full knowledge of the ways antipodean place corresponds to older Gothic tropes. And it manipulates these, often superbly, to replenish the ability of the genre to shock and disturb … it is designed to thrill and entertain. But it also reminds us that this continent remains unsettling to those who settled it. Gemmell has always had a deft touch for narrative. Here she takes the panoply of effects Gothic has to offer and drives them till they are blowing froth and bleeding at the flanks' The Australian

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Book SynopsisGET OUT. BEFORE THEY SAVE YOU.Early 1800s. Thomasina Trelora is on her way to the colonies. Her fate: to be married to a clergyman she''s never met. As the Australian coastline comes into view a storm wrecks the ship and leaves her lying on the rocks, near death. She''s saved by an Aboriginal man who carries her to the door of a grand European house, Willowbrae.Tom is now free to be whoever she wants to be and a whole new life opens up to her. But as she''s drawn deeper into the intriguing life of this grand estate, she discovers that things aren''t quite as they seem. She stumbles across a horrifying secret at the heart of this world of colonial decorum and realises she may have exchanged one kind of prison for another.The Ripping Tree is an intense, sharp shiver of a novel, which brings to mind such diverse influences as The Turn of the Screw, Rebecca and the film Get Out as much as it evokes The Secret River. A powerful and gripping tale of survival written in Nikki Gemmell''s signTrade Review'You are likely to be so distracted by [the beauty of the writing] that you realise you have missed the story … and the only thing to do is go back and start all over again. If ever a book deserved to become a classic, The Ripping Tree does' The Canberra Times 'An immersive tale of intrigue, friendship and female independence. Think Sofia Coppola's The Beguiled meets Peter Weir's Picnic at Hanging Rock' Sydney Morning Herald 'A beautifully descriptive yet unsettling tale of survival' Herald Sun 'Nikki Gemmell's new novel proceeds in full knowledge of the ways antipodean place corresponds to older Gothic tropes. And it manipulates these, often superbly, to replenish the ability of the genre to shock and disturb … it is designed to thrill and entertain. But it also reminds us that this continent remains unsettling to those who settled it. Gemmell has always had a deft touch for narrative. Here she takes the panoply of effects Gothic has to offer and drives them till they are blowing froth and bleeding at the flanks' The Australian

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Book SynopsisIt's the season of peace and goodwill, but a Victorian Christmas is no holiday for the world's most popular detective in this new book from Bonnie MacBird, author of the bestselling Sherlock Holmes novel Art in the Blood.It's Christmastime in London, and Sherlock Holmes takes on two cases. The angelic three-year-old child of a wealthy couple is the target of a vicious kidnapper, and a country aristocrat worries that his handsome, favourite son has mysteriously vanished from his London pied à terre. Holmes and Watson, aided by the colourful Heffie O'Malley, slip slide in the ice to ensure a merry Christmas is had by nearly everybody . . .Trade Review“What could be a better present this season than a new Christmas case for Sherlock Holmes? Bonnie MacBird’s worthy pastiche takes us back to 221B Baker Street in a snowy Victorian December.” —The Wall Street Journal “The brilliant MacBird manages to produce a tale which is both authentic and original, yet pays homage to the genius of Arthur Conan Doyle.”—Dundee Courier “Neatly emulates the style and tone of Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories … If you’re in the mood for light seasonal entertainment, albeit with a serious underlay, look no further.”—Michael Dirda, Washington Post “MacBird's series grows stronger with each book and she remains the best and most faithful pastiche writer out there today – bar none.”—The Doyleockian “As long as there are writers as skilful and observant as Bonnie MacBird to keep the Holmes flame alight, I will be warming myself in its glow.”—FullyBooked2017 “Victorian London comes alive in this enthralling Christmas mystery, written with intelligence, style, and lovely period detail.”—Mimi Matthews, USA Today bestselling author “What Child Is This? is the most charming, entertaining Holmesian yarn I've read in years… A must read for Holmesians—and others!”— Matt Witten, author of The Necklace “Bonnie MacBird’s What Child is This? stimulates the mind while it warms the heart. It confirms what we long believed: Not only is Sherlock Holmes the Great Detective, he is a great man.”—Leslie S. Klinger “A tender, beautifully fashioned homage to Holmes and Watson, and the power of love.”—Nancy Holder, author of The Wicked Saga “No one can surpass Conan Doyle at his best, but a select few pastiche writers get close enough that they can almost reach out and touch the master. Bonnie MacBird is one of those writers that achieves this consistently. If you need a Holmes story for Christmas (and who doesn't?) get hold of this immediately.”—The Doyleockian

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Book Synopsis The New York Times bestselling novel – an unputdownable story of murder, revenge and betrayal from international number one bestseller Jeffrey Archer. Trade Review Praise for Jeffrey Archer: ‘Probably the greatest storyteller of our age’ Mail on Sunday 'Peerless master of the page turner' Daily Mail 'If there were a Nobel Prize for storytelling, Archer would win' Daily Telegraph ‘Archer is a master entertainer’ Time

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Book SynopsisLiverpool, 1940. Where's George? Ruth didn't realise that she had grabbed hold of the other woman's arms. Where's my son?Journalist Ruth Holt is struggling in the terror of the Blitz when her young son is suddenly snatched away in broad daylight. Soon after, the kidnappers' demands arrive. They are working with the Nazis, and she has no choice but to co-operate, or the authorities will learn that she is harbouring secrets of her own.Ruth's job gives her access to critical information, and if she does not share it with Britain's enemies, her child will face the consequences. Desperate, she falsifies information, lying to everyone: her employers, her family and her lover. But as the demands increase, the knife edge she walks on grows increasingly thin. If she falls, she will never save her son.Trade Review'I loved this book' NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Would recommend it’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'I finished it in one sitting’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisThe brand-new heart-wrenching World War 2 historical novel from the bestselling author of The German MessengerCharlotte Weber is against the Nazi regime and what it stands for, but as she attends Hamburg University, she struggles to make sense of the war she finds herself a part of. Practising her violin for the university orchestra with her friend, Greta, gets her through the days, until Greta fails to meet her one day, and Charlotte goes to her friend's apartment to find her body inside.The police declare it a suicide, but Charlotte knows it is murder.Desperate to discover who killed her friend, but not knowing where to turn, Charlotte is approached by Nazi spies, who recruit her, believing she is Greta. Caught right in the middle of the regime's web, Charlotte determines to use her position to subvert the regime from the inside, and find out the truth about Greta once and for all.As the war atrocities heighten, and she witnesses the brutality of the Gestapo, Charlotte begins to discover hidden truths of her closest circle of friends, all of whom have something to hide that would make them targets for the NazisReaders are LOVING M.J. Hollows?''I loved this book'' NetGalley reviewer ?????''Would recommend it' NetGalley reviewer ?????''I finished it in one sitting' NetGalley reviewer ?????

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Book SynopsisFigure out whodunnit in this exciting new 1930s crime series that whisks you away to the most gorgeous escapist destinations! A beautiful French estateA weddingA murderAnd a novice detective intent on solving her first case!Fresh from teaching at her prestigious Swiss boarding school, Miss Atalanta Ashford suddenly finds herself the most eligible young lady in society when she inherits her grandfather's substantial fortune. But with this fortune, and an elegant new Parisian home, comes a legacy passed down from grandfather to granddaughtersleuthing discreetly for Europe's elite.This young lady isn't one to back down from a challenge and Miss Ashford must depend on her sharp wit and charm to solve her first case, which takes her to the lush lavender fields of Provence and a wedding at the mansion of the Comte de Surmonne.Now, as murder strikes twice, Atalanta will have to race to solve the case but will she be able to stop the blushing bride from facing a fatal I do'?Look out for more MTrade ReviewReader reviews for Vivian Conroy: ‘A good old-fashioned whodunit’ ‘Vivian most definitely did not disappoint’ ‘Engaging, well written, and entertaining’ ‘Fantastic stories’ ‘If you like a really good mystery on a par with Christie then this is for you’

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Book SynopsisGripping, compelling and beautiful.' Emma Cowell, author of The House in the Olive Grove A secret big enough to destroy the Führer's reputation. . .January 1939:When Katja Heinz secures a job as a typist at Doctor Viktor's clinic, she doesn't expect to be copying top secret medical records from a notebook.At the end of the first world war, Doctor Viktor treated soldiers for psychological disorders. One of the patients was none other than Adolf Hitler. . .The notes in his possession declare Hitler unfit for office a secret that could destroy the Führer's reputation, and change the course of the war if exposed. . .With the notebook hidden in her hat box, Katja and Doctor Viktor travel to Paris. Seeking refuge in the Shakespeare and Company bookshop, they hope to find a publisher brave enough to print the controversial script.But Katja is being watched. Nazi spies in Paris have discovered her plan. They will stop at nothing to destroy the notebook and silence those who know of the secret

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Book SynopsisThe brand-new spellbinding dual-timeline historical novel from the bestselling author of The Lost Sister***A hidden jewel. A buried past. A secret waiting to break free. India, 1947: Celia Fforbes-Whyte remembers little about her beloved mother, but she will never forget how the family's prized diamond, the Chamakta Sitara, glistened at her throat. The diamond has been part of the family for as long as she can remember, but growing voices begin to ask whether it should ever have belonged to them at all?With danger closing in on the eve of Indian independence, Celia's father makes a drastic choice to protect his family, the diamond must disappear without a trace. But in doing so, will he create a curse that lasts a lifetime London, 2024: Heartbroken and desperate for an escape, Lisa Statton retreats to the comfort of the Alps. But when she stumbles across a sparkling gem and an unopened letter, embedded in a glacier, Lisa finds herself thrust into a mystery more devastating than she co

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Book Synopsis'Gorgeous, an utter delight' MARIAN KEYESA charming debut that sparks with fun and fizz' GOOD HOUSEKEEPING'A must read!' SOPHIE IRWIN'Storytelling at its finest' STYLISTA DAILY MAIL BOOK OF THE YEARLONGLISTED FOR THE HISTORICAL WRITERS'' ASSOCIATION DEBUT CROWN PRIZEMrs Wood is London's most celebrated medium. She's managed to survive decades in the competitive world of contacting the Other Side, has avoided the dreaded slips that revealed others as frauds and is still hosting packed-out séances for Victorian high society.Yet, some of her patrons have recently cancelled their appointments. There are reports of American mediums nearly materialising full spirits and audiences are no longer satisfied with the knocking on tables and candle theatrics of years gone by. And then, at one of Mrs Wood's routine gatherings, she hears something terrifying faint, but unmistakable: a yawn.Mrs Wood needs to spice up her brand. She decides to take on Emmie, a young protégé, to join her show. But is Emmie Finch the naïve ingenue she seems to be? Or does she pose more of a threat to Mrs Wood's reign and, more horrifyingly, her reputation than Mrs Wood could ever have imagined?Trade Review‘I absolutely ADORED it. Such a juicy read and written so beautifully. Charming, gorgeous, an utter delight’ Marian Keyes ‘Intriguing, witty and unique. A must read!’ Sophie Irwin, author of A Lady’s Guide to Fortune Hunting ‘There’s much fun to be had in this vivid, delightfully original debut’ Daily Mail ‘A charming debut that sparks with fun and fizz’ Good Housekeeping 'The Other Side of Mrs Wood drew me in with its promise of ambition and rivalry on the Victorian séance scene. I found myself alternating between laughing, crying and an unsightly mixture of both as I followed Mrs Wood’s journey to stay on top in an industry that prioritises youth and novelty. This is an absolute triumph of a debut' Stacey Thomas ‘Wonderfully entertaining’ Harper’s Bazaar ‘Fans of Sarah Waters will love this clever debut’ Red Magazine ‘Engaging and wonderfully original’ Katie Fforde ‘Wildly entertaining and thoroughly gripping’ Reader’s Digest ‘Full of wit. Bubbling beneath its surface is a compelling commentary on the scant choices facing Victorian women determined to support themselves. Highly recommended’ Lianne Dillsworth, author of Theatre of Marvels ‘A joy to read, completely fresh and original with a wonderful cast of characters, featuring rival mediums, dark secrets and some truly delicious double-crossing. Witty, evocative writing, a huge treat of a novel’ Lucy Diamond ‘Think All About Eve, but set in the spellbinding world of Victorian mediums. Brilliantly witty' Frances Quinn, author of That Bonesetter Woman ‘Crackles with wit and mischief, a delicious read’ Louise Dean ‘Storytelling at its finest’ Stylist‘I absolutely ADORED it. Such a juicy read and written so beautifully. Charming, gorgeous, an utter delight’ Marian Keyes ‘Intriguing, witty and unique. A must read!’ Sophie Irwin, author of A Lady’s Guide to Fortune Hunting ‘There’s much fun to be had in this vivid, delightfully original debut’ Daily Mail ‘A charming debut that sparks with fun and fizz’ Good Housekeeping 'The Other Side of Mrs Wood drew me in with its promise of ambition and rivalry on the Victorian séance scene. I found myself alternating between laughing, crying and an unsightly mixture of both as I followed Mrs Wood’s journey to stay on top in an industry that prioritises youth and novelty. This is an absolute triumph of a debut' Stacey Thomas ‘Wonderfully entertaining’ Harper’s Bazaar ‘Fans of Sarah Waters will love this clever debut’ Red Magazine ‘Engaging and wonderfully original’ Katie Fforde ‘Wildly entertaining and thoroughly gripping’ Reader’s Digest ‘Full of wit. Bubbling beneath its surface is a compelling commentary on the scant choices facing Victorian women determined to support themselves. Highly recommended’ Lianne Dillsworth, author of Theatre of Marvels ‘A joy to read, completely fresh and original with a wonderful cast of characters, featuring rival mediums, dark secrets and some truly delicious double-crossing. Witty, evocative writing, a huge treat of a novel’ Lucy Diamond ‘Think All About Eve, but set in the spellbinding world of Victorian mediums. Brilliantly witty' Frances Quinn, author of That Bonesetter Woman ‘Crackles with wit and mischief, a delicious read’ Louise Dean ‘Storytelling at its finest’ Stylist

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Book Synopsis'Gorgeous, an utter delight' MARIAN KEYESA charming debut that sparks with fun and fizz' GOOD HOUSEKEEPING'A must read!' SOPHIE IRWIN'Storytelling at its finest' STYLISTA DAILY MAIL BOOK OF THE YEARLONGLISTED FOR THE HISTORICAL WRITERS'' ASSOCIATION DEBUT CROWN PRIZEI want your reputation', the girl said to Mrs Wood. I want everything you have'Mrs Wood is the London's most celebrated medium, having survived decades in the competitive world of contacting the Other Side hosting packed-out séances for Victorian high society.But, with rival young mediums dazzling audiences across the city, the allure of London's most established star might be starting to wane. And then, at one of her routine gatherings, she hears something truly terrifying: a yawn.So, Mrs Wood takes on a young protégé to spice up her show. But does her new pupil pose more of a threat to Mrs Wood's reputation than she could imagined?

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Book Synopsis''Who can resist a smart, resourceful and independent Regency heroine? Prepare to fall head over heels'' Good Housekeeping''Told with zip and humourmost enjoyable'' Historical Novel Society''The Regency as we''ve never seen it before!'' Emma Orchard, author of A Duke of One''s Own1812Deep below the hills of the Buckinghamshire countryside, the infamous Hellfire Caves house a pleasure palace for the idle rich a secret society steeped in satanism, opium and debauchery of the highest order.When the club's warden, Antony Pennington, is brutally murdered, his bastard sister, Dora, must follow the clues to decode who the killer is, aided by an unexpected ally ex-Army officer, former opium addict and son of a Viscount, Dr Jacob Sandys.As a shadow dogs their every footstep, Dora and Jacob find themselves in the midst of a shocking conspiracy, caught between the legendary Illuminati and the Hell Fire Club. With time running out, they must fight against both the most influential gentleman of the ton and the undeniable attraction they feel towards each otherReaders can''t get enough of The Persephone Code:I won''t lie, I picked this book up because of the cover absolutely stunningit was a perfect read' ?????This book was so good, I couldn''t put it down' ?????Simply delicious! This book is absolutely gloriousin the midst of a lot of Regency retellings, it stands out There is a wry wit throughout which balances beautifullywith the dark themes' ?????This book is absolutely fantastic!!! I was so caught up in reading it that I missed lunch, and it was past time to start dinner. Only the rumbling of my stomach made me put it down for a quick meal, after which I resumed my reading' ?????Starts with a bang, never really pauses for breath, and has two main protagonists who are instantly likeable and easy to cheer for!' ????A roller-coaster ride with plenty of twists' ????What a compelling read! I found it a captivating, dynamic and enthralling book that kept me glued to the pages from beginning to end' ????The writing of this book was exquisite I was hanging on to every last word' ????

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Book Synopsis?????''Beautifully written and a thoroughly absorbing read. I found it impossible to put down'' Deborah Carr, USA Today BestsellerTHE TOWN OF WEM, SHROPSHIRE 1643Civil war is ripping England apart.Families are divided, emotions run high.Whether on the bleakness of the moors or in snug, wood-panelled rooms, danger lurks.A body is found, its mouth pierced with thorns.The Justice of the Peace, a godly man, is certain that witchcraft is involved.Only his assistant, former cavalryman John Carne, looks for reason where others see demons and witches.But John has secrets of his own secrets that concern his cold and distant wife. And it's not long before the darkness that has engulfed Wem grows darker stillReaders are loving The Witchfinder''s Assistant:?????''Fascinating a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining read''?????''The final denouement was a surprise, and was told in a thrilling and interesting manner. Wickedness can sometimes be hidden behind a fair face. I enjoyed it very much''?????''A well researched and intriguing look at England in 1643Goldstraw''s an excellent storyteller- this one pulled me in and kept me reading''????''Engaging and absorbingan historical novel for our own times''????''The historical setting is richly detailed, and Goldstraw does an excellent job of capturing the tension and paranoia of the time''

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Book SynopsisThe new and updated 10 year anniversary editionWinner of the Edgar, Agatha, Macavity and H.R.F. Keating crime-writing awards, this definitive account of the secretive Detection Club and its trail-blazing founders told for the first time the extraordinary story of British detective fiction between the two World Wars.Few, if any, books about crime fiction have provided so much information and insight' THE TIMESA gripping real-life detective story, The Golden Age of Murder investigates how Dorothy L. Sayers, Anthony Berkeley, Agatha Christie and their contemporaries both competed and collaborated to turn the genre into a literary powerhouse that still dominates popular fiction today. Written in times of social and political turmoil, their books cast new light on unsolved murders whilst hiding clues to the authors' darkest secrets and their complex and sometimes bizarre private lives.Ten years since its first publication, Martin Edwards now the Detection Club's President and author of subsequent award-winning publications including Howdunit and the monumental The Life of Crime revisits the story with major updates, new revelations and four brand new chapters that no crime connoisseur will want to miss.Illuminating and entertaining provides a new way of looking at old favourites' LEN DEIGHTON

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Book SynopsisThe Hundred Years'' War comes to life in this spellbinding tale of love, betrayal and conspiracy A quest born on the battlefield will change a young boy's destiny Rafi Dubois is five years old when his mother is murdered after the Battle of Crecy in 1346. Alone and lost, Rafi is given a token by the dying Englishman who tried to save his mother's life: a half-broken family seal which he urges Rafi to return one day to Winchester.Years later, when Rafi saves a wealthy merchant's wife from a brutal robbery, he is rewarded with the chance to travel to England, taking the seal with him.But when he reaches Winchester, Rafi finds himself in a turbulent world full of long-held allegiances, secrets and treachery. His path is fraught with danger and with powerful enemies working against him, Rafi falls in love with Edith, a market apothecary. But in doing so, Rafi unleashes a deadly chain of events which threatens to overwhelm them bothThe Herb Knot is a sweeping and passionate novel set in one of the most tumultuous times in English history, from a powerful new voice.Readers give The Herb Knot five stars!''A superb debut novel, with a story that grips you from beginning to end''''The amount of research that has so obviously been undertaken is quite phenomenal. I don't believe I've ever read a book so absorbing''''Plenty of twists to the tale to keep you guessing''''A fascinating glimpse into a medieval world filled with intrigue and danger a compelling story which lingers long after the last page is turned''

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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