Three compelling crime novels have recently hit the shelves, each offering a unique twist on murder, justice, and darkly humorous storytelling. From a sociopathic protagonist to a retired serial killer, these books promise suspense and intrigue for thriller enthusiasts.
A Sociopath’s Guide To A Successful Marriage by M. K. Oliver
On the surface, Lalla Rook appears to be a typical pushy middle-class mother from north London, fiercely determined to secure her difficult daughter Nelly a place at the best private school nearby. She is equally focused on helping her husband achieve a partnership at his investment bank and purchasing a grand house in the prestigious Hampstead area.
However, far darker depths quickly emerge in this wickedly amusing debut from former headmaster M. K. Oliver. Lalla possesses a distinctly chequered past, and the story kicks off with her stabbing an intruder to death in her sitting room. But she does not stop there; she proceeds to kill her friend's abusive husband, all while burying the corpse of her first victim in the concrete foundations of another friend's new swimming pool.
The central question lingers: will Lalla be caught? Slyly witty and beautifully observed, this novel presents a protagonist who is not to be missed, blending dark humour with chilling suspense.
The Shadow Carver by Nadine Matheson
District nurse Sian Fox-Carnell, then aged 35, was convicted of murdering two patients in her care and attempting to murder two others by overdosing them with prescribed medication. One victim described her as 'more evil than the cancer that was once in my body'. That conviction occurred seven years ago, but now a retrial has been ordered due to flawed forensic evidence.
The nurse blames one of the investigating officers, DI Henley, for her imprisonment and vows revenge. In a shocking twist, she is murdered herself, leaving Henley to try and trap a killer who seems to be targeting those who have escaped 'justice'. Criminal defence lawyer Nadine Matheson, who burst onto the scene with her debut The Jigsaw Man, once again demonstrates her flair for suspense and the grotesque in this gripping tale.
I’m Not the Only Murderer in my Retirement Home by Fergus Craig
Carol Quinn, a serial killer with seven victims, has served her 35-year prison sentence and been released. No longer a young woman, she decides to spend her remaining years in a luxurious retirement home, hoping that no one will recognise her. However, her plans are quickly disrupted when a former Metropolitan Police Commissioner tumbles past her window to his death.
Was it suicide or was he pushed? Inevitably, Carol becomes a prime suspect in what could be a murder, and she is investigated by the other residents, who include a retired Detective Chief Inspector and a former Home Secretary. To prove her innocence, Carol must solve the case herself, but can she do it? Making murder funny is a delicate business, but actor and comedian Fergus Craig manages it with aplomb in a wry, witty style that keeps readers engaged.
These three novels, each with their own distinct voice and plot, offer thrilling escapes into worlds where crime and dark humour intersect, perfect for fans of the genre seeking fresh and entertaining reads.
