The Woman in the Wood

Three years ago, Danny "Abs" Abbingdon was living the dream. Boyband good looks, a famous girlfriend, a happy-go-lucky personality and a starring role on the nation's favorite reality TV show, Laid in Essex. And then, on the night of the party, everything changed.

It was supposed to be an intimate gathering. Just a few close friends in a remote cottage in Wales. But one thing led to another, the guest-list swelled, and the party spiraled out of control. A few days later, a local girl was reported missing, presumed dead. Abs and his friends had been the last to see her alive. Athough no one was ever charged, the controversy was enough to destroy Abs' career.

So now, three years later, the celebrity who once captured the hearts of millions is opening Southend's new branch of Poundland. But new evidence, discovered by DI Sasha Dawson and Essex police, is about to come to light. Evidence which might just clear Abs' name—or might send him down for murder.

This is an uncorrected proof copy.