Nobody should be in the market… for murder!

Even though its famous opera house has shuttered its doors for the war, Covent Garden remains one of the most exciting, bustling areas of London. It’s where Hannah Merrill and Aunt Violet have their bookshop and, in spite of the recent spate of burglaries in the area, it’s generally thought to be a good neighbourhood.

So Hannah is surprised when she sees a fellow shopkeeper – a jeweller named Jacob Cornelis – having a heated argument with a stranger. Especially when the next day Cornelis is found dead in his shop, apparently the victim of another burglary.

But what shocks Hannah more is when she meets the policeman supposedly there to investigate the crime. Because he is none other than the man who Hannah saw arguing with Cornelis the day before.

Hannah knows it’s up to her and Violet to investigate. But they don’t know they’re about to uncover a secret underworld of theft, murder and blackmail. And they must act fast, before the Covent Garden Killer strikes again…

A gripping and unputdownable Golden Age cozy crime mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Helena Dixon and Verity Bright.

Readers love the Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet series:

‘I couldn’t put this book down, I just wanted to keep reading. The story kept me guessing all the time and the ending was unexpected. Can’t wait for the next book.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A fabulous historical novel that entertained me from the start… Reminiscent of Miss Jane Marple… I loved the inclusion of Bartleby, the bookshop cat who was very much a character in his own right.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Wonderful!! I had high hopes for this novel and it did not disappoint. Once I began I could hardly put it down. I am excited to read Ms. Davison’s next installment.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘What a fabulous setting for a murder… If I could have read it in one sitting, I would have done. A brilliant plot with some clever twists! I think I’ve found a new favourite series. I can’t wait for the next instalment. Highly recommended!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I loved this delightful new cozy mystery featuring a young society girl and her suffragette aunt… 5 stars. I look forward to more in this series.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I loved this book. Hannah and Aunt Violet are wonderful characters and I liked them from the start. The surrounding characters are well imagined. The setting is interesting. I enjoyed the references to literature and the way books were a part of the story line… Very entertaining and I highly recommend it.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Fascinating characters, scandals, espionage and murder… Kept me turning the pages wanting to know what would happen to Hannah and her delightful feline companion.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The post Murder in Covent Garden appeared first on Boldwood.

A calculated killer. A life hanging in the balance. A decision that changes everything…

For the first time in her life, DCI Emma Gardner finds herself unable to concentrate on the job she loves. Her thoughts are now always with her old colleague Paul Riddick, who lies desperately ill in hospital – a tortured man in life, now facing death.

When a young woman dies from seemingly natural causes, Emma can’t help feeling that something isn’t quite right with the case, but she needs her team to pick up the slack whilst she focuses on Paul.

The case proves more complex than anyone imagined and will test the team like never before. But unbeknownst to everyone, there is another threat lurking even closer to home – Emma’s unpredictable brother Jack. And with Emma distracted, he has free rein to put right the dark and twisted grievances from his own past.

But his actions, when they come, will be devastating. And will destroy everything Emma loves…

Praise for Wes Markin:

‘Cracking start to an exciting new series. Twist and turns, thrills and kills. I loved it.’ Bestselling author Ross Greenwood

‘Markin stuns with his latest offering… Mind-bendingly dark and deep, you know it’s not for the faint hearted from page one. Intricate plotting, devious twists and excellent characterisation take this tale to a whole new level. Any serious crime fan will love it!’ Bestselling author Owen Mullen

‘A nerve-jangling, heart thumping belter of a crime series.’ Bestselling author TG Reid

‘Yet another first class story from this talented author.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘Wow! What an incredible and enoyable read this was.’⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

The post The Black Rock Killings appeared first on Boldwood.

‘The Norfolk series is Ross Greenwood’s crowning achievement – characters to root for, an intricate web of suspense, all set against a stunning backdrop. I can’t wait for more!’ Wes Markin

When a teenage couple go missing, the police aren’t too concerned. Young lovers often make bad choices.

Then a body is found near a Suffolk lighthouse, and shortly after, two girls seem to vanish into thin air. Freshly promoted DI Ashley Knight knows she has a battle on her hands to keep the public safe, and she’s going to need expert help.

Ashley turns to her old protégé, Hector Fade, seconded from The Met to analyse an avalanche of data. But neither Hector nor Ashley are prepared for the chilling connection his work uncovers to the body by the lighthouse.

Ashley, Hector and the team must break down a fiendishly complicated network of people smugglers, but another victim is found at Horsey Mere and their worst suspicions are realised. A member of the gang has gone rogue and is taking lives for fun. When Hector uncovers a pattern in the choice of victim, time is against the detectives to stop the murderer killing again.

Ross Greenwood is back with a brand new, heart-pounding case for DI Ashley Knight, perfect for fans of Mark Billingham, Ian Rankin and Peter James.

What readers are saying about DS Ashley Knight and Hector Fade:

‘Ross Greenwood is great at the twist. I know you’re going to scream at me for using the ‘twist you didn’t see coming,’ but I really didn’t.’

‘The only thing I can say that was a disappointment about reading this book, is that I somehow missed the first one in the series… What a cracking read! I’m now off the find book 1! 5 solid stars.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘This is the second book featuring DS Ashley Knight… This is a cracking good thriller that pulls you this way and that and keeps you guessing… I’ve always loved everything that I have read by Ross Greenwood and this book is no exception.’

‘This was brilliant! So much going on throughout the book it was hard to keep up but so captivating till the end. Great story & characters. Loved it!’

‘Another great read with so many twists and turns it’s like you are in a police car travelling at speed along the winding costal roads of Norfolk’⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘Another cracker of a read from Greenwood. His characterisation is superb, and the plot line fast paced and scary. Just the thought of being buried alive… highly recommended as are all of this author’s books, and made extra special by being set in beautiful Norfolk.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The post Death at Horsey Mere appeared first on Boldwood.

‘A great cast of characters, a riveting storyline, a nail-biting climax!’ Valerie Keogh

Nobody is safe…

When the murdered body of a woman is found in a Sheffield carpark, former cop turned private investigator Matt Forrester finds himself embroiled in the case, because the last call the victim made was to him…

But the case isn’t as simple as the drug theft it looks like, and – when a young boy becomes the next victim – Matt and his life partner, DI Karen Nelson, realise they’re investigating a terrifying series of revenge killings.

Arrests start to be made, but enemies are being made. And, as the killings continue, nobody is safe…

A totally unputdownable crime novel, from bestselling author Anita Waller, guaranteed to keep readers up all night.

Readers love Anita Waller:

‘By page 3 I was hooked. By the end I was addicted’ Bestselling author, Owen Mullen

‘Talk about red herrings! This book kept me guessing… Intrigue and mystery. Murder! This talented and gifted author has written a cannot put down novel.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘Waller never disappoints… Great storyline and a brilliant cast of characters with plenty of twists and turns along the way to an excellent ending. Looking forward to the next one.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘This book is everything!… I want to read ten more like it.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘Another page turner from this author. She always has me gripped and knows how to keep the reader glued to the book. With plenty of action and great characters, the level of mystery and suspense had me from the start. This is yet another must-read and highly recommended for any crime or police procedural/mystery readers.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘A very tense story. Great characters. An enthralling read.’⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘Loads of twists and turns. Kept me interested up until the last page. Recommend reading this’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘An exciting read all the way through, and as promised, an explosive ending.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

The post Fatal Endings appeared first on Boldwood.

We regret to announce the tragic death of Phoebe Fredericks…

When crime novelist Phoebe opens the post and receives an invitation to her own funeral, she’s horrified. Not least because the date of her death is marked as tomorrow.

Deciding it’s nothing more than a prank from an enemy from her past, she determines to put it to the back of her mind.

But the next morning, when her completely infuriating postman (who likes to think himself her no.1 literary critic) rings her doorbell, a parcel of poisoned pen-nibs explodes in his face. Forced to confront the fact her correspondence is more RIP than RSVP, Phoebe realises someone must want her dead.

Together with the newly-formed Village Detectives – Juno, Mil and Felix – Phoebe resolves to find out who is behind the poison pen letters before they strike again and her fate is signed, sealed and delivered!

An totally hilarious, modern cozy crime mystery, from million-copy bestselling author Fiona Walker, perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Janet Evanovich and Janice Hallett.

Readers are loving the Village Detective series:

‘Engrossing… Kind of reminds me of a cross between the Agatha Raisin TV series and Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum books, both of which I love. This is the perfect, lighthearted summer read for anyone looking for some fun escapism.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A crossover between a witty romcom and a cosy crime.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I woke up early to read it and I struggled to put it down. The best book I’ve read this year. The characters were great, I got really invested in them and the storyline was gripping. Please write more!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘An outstanding cozy mystery based in the idyllic village of Inkbury, a beautiful location famous for its glittering river, unspoilt and clear… A briliant cozy that has the perfect balance of mystery and comedy, loved it!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A great cosy mystery!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Loved this! Very clever cosy with great, diverse characters… Thoroughly engaging, and very much looking forward to the next in the series.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A delightfully cosy read, the main characters are fun and engaging. Having read the author’s back catalogue to be reunited with Juno, Phoebe and Felix is absolute fabulous! The mystery at the centre of the book foxed me until the very end and unfolded in a very natural way. I really hope there is more to come from the Village Detectives. An entertaining read!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A brilliant beginning to a new series. Reading a book written by Fiona Walker is like visiting an old friend. Lots of good memories and wanting to make more. Can’t wait for the next “Village Detectives” book. Delightful, enjoyable read.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The post The Poison Pen Letters appeared first on Boldwood.

A mysterious bequest and the legacy of a tragic love – only one person can unravel the hidden secrets of the past before it’s too late…

When Elisabeth Quemener dies she leaves a small parcel with the instructions that it must only be opened by Astrid Oake. The trouble is, no one knows who Astrid Oake is…

Elisabeth’s family turn to Touissants detective agency for help but, when Mila Shepherd and Carter Jackson try to track Astrid down, their frustration soon mounts. Their only clue is a photo of two young women holding the hands of a tiny child. The women are smiling but Mila is haunted by the sadness in their eyes. Is this Astrid and Elisabeth and if so, who is the child? And why are there signs everywhere in Elisabeth’s home that the old woman was frightened despite her living a quiet life with no known enemies?

As Elisabeth and Astrid’s story slowly unfolds, Mila feels the walls of her home The Sea House closing in. And as the secrets finally begin to reveal themselves, she is ever more determined to carry out Elisabeth’s final wishes. Because what is inside that unprepossessing parcel might just save a life…

Louise Douglas is back in the Brittany seaside town of Morranez with a heart-stopping, heart-breaking, brilliantly written and utterly compelling mystery. Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Eve Chase and Lucinda Riley.

‘I love the way in which Louise creates such an atmospheric mystery, building the intrigue and suspense brick by brick.’ Nicola Cornick

Readers love Louise Douglas:

‘I love reading Louise Douglas. If I pick it up to read, I need to make sure I have at least an hour of spare time as I just don’t want to put it down.’

‘A gripping story, so well told and filled with the unexpected, but with real depth and emotion – I really loved it, and would highly recommend it to others.’

‘Intelligent, beautifully-written story. So tense I couldn’t stop reading, this is one of those books that takes you right out of your head.’

‘Douglas’s stunning prose lifted this book above others, and the storyline was engaging from the off. Easy to see why this author is a best seller. Loved it.’

Praise for Louise Douglas:

‘I loved The Lost Notebook so much! From the opening lines, I was drawn in to a gripping story, beautifully written and so cleverly orchestrated. I rooted for the main character, I held my breath at the denouement and as for the climax of the book – just wow. Highly recommended.’ Judy Leigh

‘Louise Douglas achieves the impossible and gets better with every book.’ Milly Johnson

‘A brilliantly written, gripping, clever, compelling story, that I struggled to put down. The vivid descriptions, the evocative plot and the intrigue that Louise created, which had me constantly asking questions, made it a highly enjoyable, absolute treasure of a read.’ Kim Nash on The Scarlet Dress

‘Another stunning read from the exceptionally talented Louise Douglas! I love the way in which Louise creates such an atmospheric mystery, building the intrigue and suspense brick by brick. Her writing is always beautiful and multi-layered, her characters warm and relatable and the intriguing nature of the mystery makes this unputdownable.’ Nicola Cornick on The Scarlet Dress

‘A tender, heart-breaking, page-turning read’ Rachel Hore on The House by the Sea

‘The perfect combination of page-turning thriller and deeply emotional family story. Superb’ Nicola Cornick on The House by the Sea

The post The Sea House appeared first on Boldwood.

After three years behind a desk, Inspector John Barton wonders if he’s still got what it takes.

An opportunity arises to return to Major Crimes, so he jumps at it, after all he’s been around the block a few times. When he and his team are called in to investigate an attempted murder which seems to be linked to the case of a missing child, Barton is immediately thrust back into the life of a detective – early mornings, late nights and endless pressure to get to the truth.

Then a man dies.

Something deadly is going on behind the high walls and imposing gates of the mansions in the sleepy village of Castor. The locals are keeping each other’s secrets and if Barton doesn’t find out why soon, the bodies will start mounting up.

The Village Killer knows who’s next, and the clock is ticking…

The book all Ross Greenwood fans have been waiting for – Barton is Back! Ross Greenwood returns to his bestselling series, perfect for fans of Mark Billingham and Ian Rankin.

Readers love Inspector Barton:

‘I’ve devoured these books. I love a main character, especially a police man, who is devoted and loves his wife. You don’t get that much anymore in books and media. Brilliant author, brilliant character and brilliant storyline.’

‘Another great read from Ross Greenwood. Love the DI Barton series. Another page turner and keeps you guessing until the end.’

‘What another amazing, addictive, can’t put it down book. The twists and turns kept me guessing who was guilty, who I had the most sympathy for, who I wanted next on Santa’s list and who would have a happy ending, who else would be next. Barton I fell on love with his character and the kind of guy I’d go for a night on the town with.’

‘I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series and loved all the characters that have developed over each book. The issues included in the stories have been **gritty, serious, humorous, sad and down to earth **with realistic and relatable threads. DI Barton is a wonderful character as are Zander and Strange, a solid 3 favourites!’

Praise for Ross Greenwood:

‘Ross Greenwood is at the top of his game.’ O J Mullen

‘Move over Rebus and Morse; a new entry has joined the list of great crime investigators in the form of Detective Inspector John Barton. A rich cast of characters and an explosive plot kept me turning the pages until the final dramatic twist.’ Richard Burke

‘Master of the psychological thriller genre Ross Greenwood once again proves his talent for creating engrossing and gritty novels that draw you right in and won’t let go until you’ve reached the shocking ending.’ Caroline Vincent at Bitsaboutbooks blog

‘Ross Greenwood doesn’t write clichés. What he has written here is a fast-paced, action-filled puzzle with believable characters that’s spiced with a lot of humour.’ Kath Middleton

The post The Village Killer appeared first on Boldwood.

A sharp, funny and deliciously dark thriller that fans of Katy Brent, Bella Mackie or Killing Eve will love.

When your boss is at a conference in a city where there’s a suspicious death, it’s unlucky.

If it happens twice, it’s odd.

But when she’s in the same city at the same time as a third unexplained death . . .

Could she be a stone-cold killer?

Millie’s always known her boss Freya is a psycho – the demanding and ever-changing coffee orders, the cryptic instructions, the apparently expected mind reading and don’t even start on the insistence that Millie wears heels . . . All. The. Time.

But it only extends as far as exacting office standards. Right?

As Freya’s assistant, Millie has privileged access to her diary and travel history and when a pattern emerges of men (who seem to have no connection to each other) dying in cities where Freya is travelling, Millie is determined to figure out what’s going on.

After all, a stone-cold killer could be exactly what Millie needs . . .

Readers are loving How to Slay at Work:

‘A hilarious romp that I just couldn’t put down. Bonner’s newest novel had me absolutely howling with her murderous boss. If Miranda Priestly went on a killing spree it would look like this. Just brilliant.‘ Katy Brent, author of How To Kill Men and Get Away With It

Praise for Sarah Bonner:

‘Brilliantly twisty and thoroughly entertaining.’ T.M. Logan, bestselling author of The Holiday

‘A perfect thriller, we read this in one sitting.’ Closer

‘A wonderfully twisty, and twisted, thriller that will have you up until the early hours, and with an ending that you will NOT see coming. Brilliant.’ SJ Watson, bestselling author of Before I Go To Sleep

‘Captivating.‘ Janice Hallett, bestselling author of The Appeal

‘Constant twists, turns and delicious backstabbing betrayals.’ Culturefly

‘A twisted tale I could not have loved more.‘ Natasha Harding, The Sun

The post How to Slay at Work appeared first on Boldwood.

Escaping the city doesn’t mean escaping the criminals…

1916, Midwinter Manor: Desperate for a Christmas weekend break from war-torn London, Hannah Merrill and her Aunt Violet take Bartleby the cat and themselves off to visit Hannah’s sister, in her beautiful country estate, deep in the English countryside.

The huge house is full of relatives, friends and merrymakers, and everyone’s excited to have a Christmas to remember.

But then, when a fellow-guest’s body is found in the library – apparently bludgeoned to death – and a precious ruby is stolen from another guest, it appears that it’s going to be memorable for all the wrong reasons.

With the house snowed in, and the rural police force completely incapable of finding a single credible suspect, Hannah and Aunt Violet realise that once again it’s going to be down to them to get to the bottom of it.

Because whoever’s behind the crimes must be at Midwinter Manor… And if they’re not found, who knows what their next ‘gift’ will be?

A totally unforgettable Golden Age, country house, cozy crime novel, perfect for fans of Helena Dixon, Verity Bright, and Agatha Christie.

Readers love the Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet series:

‘I couldn’t put this book down, I just wanted to keep reading. The story kept me guessing all the time and the ending was unexpected. Can’t wait for the next book.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A fabulous historical novel that entertained me from the start… Reminiscent of Miss Jane Marple… I loved the inclusion of Bartleby, the bookshop cat who was very much a character in his own right.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Wonderful!! I had high hopes for this novel and it did not disappoint. Once I began I could hardly put it down. I am excited to read Ms. Davison’s next installment.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘What a fabulous setting for a murder… If I could have read it in one sitting, I would have done. A brilliant plot with some clever twists! I think I’ve found a new favourite series. I can’t wait for the next instalment. Highly recommended!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I loved this delightful new cozy mystery featuring a young society girl and her suffragette aunt… 5 stars. I look forward to more in this series.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I loved this book. Hannah and Aunt Violet are wonderful characters and I liked them from the start. The surrounding characters are well imagined. The setting is interesting. I enjoyed the references to literature and the way books were a part of the story line… Very entertaining and I highly recommend it.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Fascinating characters, scandals, espionage and murder… Kept me turning the pages wanting to know what would happen to Hannah and her delightful feline companion.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The post Murder at Midwinter Manor appeared first on Boldwood.

A much-needed holiday…

Dan Armstrong hasn’t done much retiring since moving to Tuscany, and with his new career as a successful private investigator taking off, it seems murder seems to follow him. He’s hoping a much-needed trip to beautiful Portofino will give him the break he needs and quality time with girlfriend Anna.

A gathering of celebrities…

Portofino is a celebrity paradise, and holidaying on a nearby superyacht is a group of British media stars, all famous for being infamous. Dan isn’t impressed by their status or wealth, but when he overhears an argument between two of the group, he suspects something fishy could be going on…

A cold-blooded killer?

And then a body is washed up on shore and Dan’s hopes for a holiday go overboard. Could this simply be a tragic accident or is there a killer amidst the assembled celebrity cast? Dan and Oscar have their work cut out before the tide turns…

It’s another gripping case for Dan and Oscar to solve!

A gripping new murder mystery series by bestselling author T.A. Williams, perfect for fans of Death in Paradise, Lee Strauss and Beth Byers.

Readers love Dan and Oscar!

‘The story line is brilliant no boring parts and kept me guessing to the end. Can’t wait for the next one!’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘Well written, good plot, lovely descriptions of Tuscany and Italian way of life. Looking forward to the next in series, love the dog’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘I highly recommend these books . Tremendous fun and very witty and written with a light touch’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

Praise for T.A. Williams!

‘A fun mystery and a good read with descriptions of Portofino that made me want to go book a flight. Dan and Oscar are a great team and kept me guessing!’ Bestselling author Anita Davison

“T A Williams whisked me away to the beautiful Italian riviera in the company of an ex-pat private investigator and his gorgeous doggy sidekick on the case of a missing teacher. What a team, and what an adventure!! Bestselling author Kate Wells

“The perfect combination of character, setting and plot, heralding an addictive new cozy mystery series!” Bestselling author Debbie Young

“Watching unassuming detective Dan Armstrong weddle the truth out of folks is great fun. Highly Entertaining read!” Bestselling author Kelly Oliver

“Dan and Oscar are great company in a sun-drenched mystery that keeps you guessing right till the end.” Bestselling author Michelle Salter

The post Murder in Portofino appeared first on Boldwood.