Minette Walters is a British mystery writer known for her penetrating insights into the human psyche and societal tensions. She delves into the darker aspects of human nature and complex relationships, often setting her narratives in stark, atmospheric environments. Her style is marked by suspenseful plotting that keeps readers actively engaged in uncovering hidden truths. Walters masterfully builds tension and delivers surprising twists, earning acclaim for her ability to craft compelling and unsettling stories.
1348: Seit Monaten wütet die Pest in Südengland. Lady Anne of Develish ist es gelungen, ihre Schutzbefohlenen in Sicherheit zu bringen. Doch die Versorgung wird immer schwieriger. Ihr geliebter Verwalter Thaddeus zieht los und nennt sich, um mehr bewirken zu können, »Milord of Athelstan«. Eine hochgefährliche Strategie: Auf eine derartige Titelanmaßung steht der Tod. Nicht nur für ihn, sondern auch für Lady Anne und die ganze Gesellschaft von Develish.
The definitive edition of Minette Walters' thrilling tale of courage and defiance during the time of the Black Death, featuring The Last Hours and The Turn of Midnight.
'Wonderful and sweeping, with a fabulous sense of place and history.' Kate Mosse on The Last Hours As the year 1349 approaches, the Black Death continues its devastating course across England. In Dorseteshire, the quarantined people of Develish question whether they are the only survivors. Guided by their beloved young mistress, Lady Anne, they wait, knowing that when their dwindling stores are finally gone they will have no choice but to leave. But where will they find safety in the desolate wasteland outside? One man has the courage to find out. Thaddeus Thurkell, a free-thinking, educated serf, strikes out in search of supplies and news. A compelling leader, he and his companions quickly throw off the shackles of serfdom and set their minds to ensuring Develish's future - and freedom for its people. But what use is freedom that cannot be gained lawfully? When Lady Anne and Thaddeus conceive an audacious plan to secure her people's independence, neither foresees the life-threatening struggle over power, money and religion that follows...
England, 1348: as the Black Death spreads through the country, people start to die by the thousands. In Dorset, young Lady Anne takes control of her lands, with her trusted steward, Thaddeus, at her side. Compassionate and resourceful, she decides to quarantine the estate against the terrifying pestilence, bringing some two hundred serfs inside the moated walls. But in such a confined space, conflicts soon arise. Ignorant of the world outside, Lady Anne's people wrestle with the terrible uncertainty of their futures. Fearing starvation but fearing the disease even more, who amongst them has the courage to leave the security of the walls? And how safe is anyone when a dreadful event threatens the uneasy status quo? From back cover
The terrifying new Hammer novella by Minette Walters, bestselling author of The Sculptress and The Scold's Bridle 'Muna's fortunes changed for the better on the day that Mr and Mrs Songoli's younger son failed to come home from school.' Before then her bedroom was a dark windowless cellar, her activities confined to cooking and cleaning. She'd grown used to being maltreated by the Songoli family; to being a slave. She's never been outside, doesn't know how to read or write, and cannot speak English. At least that's what the Songolis believe. But Muna is far cleverer - and her plans more terrifying - than the Songolis, or anyone else, can ever imagine ...
Set against the backdrop of a small town, the story follows a young girl whose life takes an unexpected turn after a tragic event. As she navigates her grief, she forms an unlikely friendship with a troubled boy, leading to a journey of self-discovery and healing. Themes of loss, resilience, and the power of connection are explored, highlighting the complexities of adolescence and the challenges of growing up in a fractured world. Through vivid storytelling, the narrative captures the struggles and triumphs of finding hope amidst despair.
Based on a true story ... Caroline Luard is shot dead in broad daylight in the grounds of a large country estate. With few clues available, her husband soon becomes the suspect ... But is he guilty? Bringing to life the people involved in this terrible crime, bestselling author Minette Walters uses modern detective skills to attempt to solve a 100-year-old crime.
The people of Streech village had never trusted the three women living up at the Grange not since Phoebe Maybury's husband suddenly, inexplicably, vanished. Ten years later a corpse is discovered in the grounds and Phoebe's nightmare begins. For once they have identified the body the police are determined to charge her with murder