A Knife in the Back
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Chef Charlie Hunter finds backstabbing among the online celebrities living in her little Chilterns village turning to murder, in the third of the Old Forge Cafe Mystery series.[Bokinfo].
Alex Coombs crafts compelling crime fiction, often set against evocative Scottish backdrops. His writing is characterized by a fluid style that draws readers into intricate mysteries solved by his recurring protagonists. Coombs explores the darker aspects of human nature while skillfully weaving in elements of humor and humanity. His novels are celebrated for their clever plotting and engaging characters.






Chef Charlie Hunter finds backstabbing among the online celebrities living in her little Chilterns village turning to murder, in the third of the Old Forge Cafe Mystery series.[Bokinfo].
"When famous TV chef Matteo McLeish turns up at the Old Forge Café and offers chef Charlie Hunter a place in his kitchen for the duration of Hampden Green's local opera festival, she thinks it's because he rates her cooking skills. In fact it's because he's heard she's good in a crisis. The wholesome star of Nonna's Kitchen is being blackmailed by one of his team. Tempted by an improbably large pay cheque and the boost to to her CV, Charlie accepts his offer. Does the threat lie close to home, or back in Italy with Matteo's culinary roots? And can Charlie find the blackmailer before she's swept up in an avalanche of death and scandal?"--Publisher's website.
Chef Charlie Hunter arrives the beautiful Chilterns. But instead of rural peace, Charlie finds something ugly stirring under the chocolate box perfection.
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DCI Hanlon is a rule-breaking detective known for her fierce loyalty to a select group of individuals. Her character embodies a strong sense of justice and determination, navigating complex cases while challenging authority. The narrative explores her personal and professional struggles, highlighting her commitment to those she cares about amidst the pressures of her demanding role in law enforcement.
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DCI Hanlon takes on an undercover assignment, delving into a world of deception and danger. As she navigates through a web of crime, her investigation reveals dark secrets that test her skills and resolve. The narrative unfolds with intense suspense, highlighting the challenges of maintaining her cover while pursuing justice. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral complexities of law enforcement are woven throughout, making for a gripping and thought-provoking read.
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Detective Hanlon thrives on the adrenaline of violence, drawn to the thrill and chaos it brings. Her obsession complicates her life as she navigates a dangerous world where her instincts may lead her to both justice and self-destruction. As she delves deeper into her cases, her addiction to the rush of danger blurs the lines between right and wrong, challenging her morals and pushing her to confront her inner demons. This gripping narrative explores the darker sides of justice and the human psyche.