‘The pairing of Ryder and Loveday is a stroke of genius.’ Clare Chase, author of the Eve Mallow and Tara Thorpe mysteries

Oxford, 1961. A family outing to Briar’s Hall ends in tragedy when eleven-year-old Eddie is found dead at the bottom of a disused well.

At first, it appears to be a tragic accident – but Coroner Clement Ryder and WPC Trudy Loveday aren’t convinced. Why would a boy afraid of heights go near a well? And if he was climbing and accidentally fell, why are there no signs of cuts or dirt on his hands?

As they investigate, the secrets of Briar’s Hall – and the mysterious de Lacey family who live there – begin to surface. Soon, Ryder and Loveday begin to fear that Eddie may have stumbled upon a secret that someone was willing to kill for…

A gripping, twisty cosy crime novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Richard Osman and M.C. Beaton.

‘Absolutely perfect! This is the book I have been craving since I last read the Thursday Murder Club series!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Very entertaining… Full of red herrings, plot twists and turns. I thought I knew who was the killer but I was wrong.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Have become an addict of Faith Martin – love her novels.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This author's books are soothing to the soul. Her characters are likable, and the plots always keep me guessing. Excellent fun.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A brilliant book! This is Faith Martin at her scintillating best!… A cracking good read… Highly recommend this book and I give it a delighted 5 stars!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Gripping suspense that will have you on the edge of your seat. I was hooked from page one.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Great plot, excellent main characters and I read it in one sitting! I would highly recommend this book.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Gripping… Crime-busting nostalgia at its very best.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Ryder and Loveday Series

Book 1: A FATAL OBSESSION

Book 2: A FATAL MISTAKE

Book 3: A FATAL FLAW

Book 4: A FATAL SECRET

Book 5: A FATAL TRUTH

Book 6: A FATAL AFFAIR

Book 7: A FATAL NIGHT

Book 8: A FATAL END