Stephen Spotswood's writing delves into the profound aftermath of conflict, particularly focusing on the experiences of wounded veterans through his extensive journalism. His background as an award-winning playwright informs his dramatic work, which explores complex human relationships and societal issues with a powerful narrative voice. He employs sharp dialogue and insightful character development to create compelling theatrical experiences. This depth of human understanding now translates to his debut novel, promising a similarly immersive and thought-provoking reading journey.
The fourth installment in the Pentecost & Parker mystery series continues to deliver thrilling action and intrigue. Readers can expect a compelling blend of suspense and clever storytelling from the Nero Award-winning author, known for engaging narratives that captivate fans of the genre. This adventure promises to deepen the characters' development while unraveling a new and exciting mystery that challenges their skills and wit.
"In the newest entry into the Nero Award-winning Parker & Pentecost Mystery series ("my new favorite sleuthing duo"-- Sarah Weinman, The New York Times Book Review), Lillian and Will are hot on the trail of a serial killer whose murders are stranger than fiction. New York City, 1947: For years, Holly Quick has made a good living off of murder, filling up the pages of pulp detective magazines with gruesome tales of revenge. Now someone is bringing her stories to life and leaving a trail of blood-soaked bodies behind. With the threat of another murder looming, and reluctant to go to the police, Holly turns to the best crime-solving duo in or out of the pulps, Willowjean "Will" Parker and her boss, famed detective Lillian Pentecost. The pair are handed the seemingly-impossible task of investigating three murders at once without tipping off the cops or the press that the crimes are connected. A tall order made even more difficult by the fact that Will is already signed up to spend her daylight hours undercover as a guileless secretary in the hopes of digging up a lead on an old adversary, Dr. Olivia Waterhouse. But even if Will is stuck in pencil skirts and sensible shoes, she's not about to let her boss have all the fun. Soon she's diving into an underground world of people obsessed with murder and the men and women who commit them. Can the killer be found in the Black Museum Club, run by a philanthropist whose collection of grim murder memorabilia may not be enough to satisfy his lust for the homicidal? Or is it Holly Quick's pair of editors, who read about murder all day, but clearly aren't telling the full story? With victims seemingly chosen at random and a murderer who thrives on spectacle, the case has the great Lillian Pentecost questioning her methods. But whatever she does, she'd better do it fast. Holly Quick has a secret, too and it's about to bring death right to Pentecost and Parker's doorstep"-- Provided by publisher
The dynamic detectives Lillian Pentecost and Willowjean 'Will' Parker are back in another hugely entertaining and gripping 1940s Manhattan murder mystery
an irresistible murder mystery from the acclaimed author of Fortune Favours the Dead
Set against a backdrop of intrigue and suspense, this murder mystery captivates readers with its clever plot twists and engaging characters. It combines humor and tension, appealing to fans of both Richard Osman and Robert Thorogood. The narrative is rich with unexpected developments, making it a thrilling read for those who enjoy unraveling complex mysteries.
Set in post-war New York, the story follows Will Parker, a detective haunted by her past. When her friend Ruby Donner from the circus is murdered, Will is drawn back to her former life to uncover the truth, despite the risks involved. Teaming up with Ms. Pentecost, she infiltrates the circus in Stoppard, Virginia, where she confronts a web of lies and dark secrets. As she races against time to save the prime suspect, Will must navigate danger and deception, risking everything to find justice for her friend.
"When scrappy circus runaway Willowjean "Will" Parker saves the life of New York's best, and most unorthodox, private investigator, Lillian Pentecost, she doesn't expect to be offered a life-changing proposition: Lillian's multiple sclerosis means she can't keep up with her old case load alone, so she wants to hire Will as her right-hand woman. Three years later, in 1945, Will and Lillian are called in on the case of Abigail Collins, whose dead body has just been found slumped in the same chair where her steel magnate husband shot himself the year before. With rumors flying that Abigail was bumped off by the vengeful spirit of her husband, the family has tasked the detectives with finding answers. But that's easier said than done in a case involving messages from the dead, a seductive spiritualist, and the deceased's beautiful daughter, Becca Collins. When Will and Becca's relationship dances beyond the professional, Will finds herself in dangerous territory--and discovers she may have become the murderer's next target."-- Provided by publisher
Set in 1947 New York City, this gripping installment of the Pentecost and Parker series follows Willowjean "Will" Parker as she races against time to exonerate her boss, detective Lillian Pentecost, who has been arrested for the murder of wealthy financier Jessup Quincannon. With a mountain of evidence stacked against Lillian, Will navigates a web of suspects, including a murder club, a jilted lover, and a missing mob hit-man. As Lillian's health deteriorates in prison, both women must uncover the truth before it's too late.
