The million-copy bestselling series beloved by readers, in print for the first time ever in a major publishing partnership with Penguin for 2026.

Get ready to be hooked by the thrilling and atmospheric murder mystery from the million-copy-selling crime writer, where an aristocratic fatality leaves behind no body, no forensics, and enemies in the highest places...

'Had me gripped from the very start to the extremely satisfying ending.' ***** Reader Review
'Where has Peter Grainger been my whole life?' ***** Reader Review
'An excellent, intelligent and believable crime series which just gets better.' ***** Reader Review
'Engaging characters, intriguing plots and occasional humour make for a page-turning read.' ***** Reader Review
'I read a LOT of murder mysteries and this series is one of the best!' ***** Reader Review

When Caroline Thorpe succeeded in casting doubt on the verdict of the inquest into her brother’s death, she could not have anticipated what would follow.

Freddie was Earl Thorpe of Burnham, and as the Kings Lake detectives, headed by DCI Cara Freeman, soon begin to realise, influential people have gone to considerable lengths to cover up a potential scandal surrounding the young man’s death.

Their investigation will take them from Norfolk into the capital, and from idealistic young campaigners to people at the heart of government. The stakes have never been higher for the detectives from Kings Lake Central.

'Once I was ensconced in Kings Lake, in the company of Smith and his team, I didn't want to leave' FINANCIAL TIMES
'The books are comforting, the writing is subtle and the plots are gripping.' THE TIMES