Blood Among the Threads: A Wrexham Victorian Mystery

by David Ebsworth

He only sought the truth. But some truths are best left buried.

Wrexham, 1876. Meet Alfred Neobard Palmer, an unlikely hero. "It was a death which had brought him here. Death by snake venom, of all things." Palmer – and his more courageous sweetheart, young Ettie Francis. A series of accidental deaths which increasingly seem – well, more than simply accidental. Deaths luring Palmer and Ettie, slowly but surely, towards a terrifying climax through the treacherous waters of the North Wales coast. But can those deaths truly be linked to the huge coverlet on display at Wrexham's magnificent Art Treasures Exhibition? A patchwork of images both biblical and bewitching. And is there, literally, blood among the coverlet's threads?

A glittering mystery by award-winning author David Ebsworth."David Ebsworth's immersive body of work demonstrates a keen eye for historical detail."
(Vaseem Khan, best-selling author and Chair of the UK Crime Writers' Association)

288 pages, Paperback

Published October 30, 2023

About the author

David Ebsworth is the pen name of writer, Dave McCall, a former negotiator and Regional Secretary for Britain's Transport & General Workers’ Union. He was born in Liverpool (UK) but has lived since 1980 in Wrexham, North Wales, with his wife, Ann. Following their retirement in 2008, the couple have spent about six months of each year in southern Spain. Dave began to write seriously in the following year, 2009.

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.

Blood Among The Threads is a dark victorian mystery where our protagonist Neobard Palmer investigates a series of seemingly accidental deaths. Neobard is pushed to take up this investigation after the original choice of curator was bitten by a snake and died. After a tapestry draws his eye, the investigation begins to place himself and his girlfriend Ettie in real danger, leaving them to question and decide if revealing their findings is worth their lives.
This was clearly a well researched book, and the effort and meticulation the author has put in is clear from start to finish. I really enjoyed this and hope to read more from this author in the future!

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written, perfectly narrated and tremendously executed, “Blood Among the Threads” was a first class read for me. Written by David Ebsworth, this book was intricately researched and then conveyed into an entertaining read that historical fiction readers will also adore.

Based on a real life character Alfred Neobard Palmer, who was an analytical chemist and local historian, we see him take on the position of museum curator, much to the chagrin of his beloved sweetheart. Palmer is so intrigued by the death of the previous occupier of the position - who died of a suspiciously sounding snake bite - he becomes embroiled in a situation he would have done best to stay out of. When it is brought to his attention that a ‘coverlet’ might be to blame with its biblical and bewitching depictions, he starts to suspect something is definitely amiss. When his girlfriend Ettie joins him in Wrexham, they end up in a perilous situation and it is then that the story becomes even more tense and intriguing. There’s some fabulous characters that the author has created in the story, with some superb back stories that I found quite interesting.

The amount of research this book must have had is considerable and the author should be commended on this. The Wrexham quilt (which is the basis for the books premise, the workhouses, the boats/steamers and their builds and mechanical operations, the history and landscape of Wrexham, the politics and monarchy of the era, even the fashions are all meticulously written and accurately portrayed.

By the authors own admission the Exhibition and the 1876 National Eisteddfod (festival) are the authors own small tribute to these events, as well as to Palmer himself, by writing this fabulous story. Certainly a job well done and together with a beautifully designed book cover, “Blood Among the Threads” is a brilliant book I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous page turner of a Victorian murder mystery. A twisting plot with the wonderful atmosphere of Wrexham in 1876 brought to vividly to life through the author’s meticulous research. Alfred Neobard Palmer, the real life early historian of Wrexham is the key protagonist, he arrives in Wrexham for the ‘Great Exhibtion’ a few years before he really did settle in the town. A Primitive Methodist and analytical chemist with an eye to detailed investigation and permanent ill health may seem an unlikely mixture for a hero but it works brilliantly. Other characters both real and fictional are very well drawn into a plot that will please all those that love Wilkie Collins and John Buchan. I do hope Alfred Palmer will appear again to investigate the darker side of Victorian Wrexham!

[Sue Wallace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Blood Among The Threads by David Ebsworth.
He only sought the truth. But some truths are best left buried.
A good read. Different. Wasn't really sure how I felt about the characters. 3*.

[Sonja Charters · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by this author and the first in the Wrexham Victorian Mystery series.

I'm not entirely sure what I was expecting from this book - maybe just a standard thriller? - but this offered so much more!

The story is a brilliantly worked detective mystery - with accidental deaths that seem just a little too strange and a plot that's full of twists and turns.
But woven within this story is an interesting look at the history of Wrexham which was so full of detail that I was swiftly transported to the are during the late nineteenth century.
The attention to detail and descriptive writing had me completely immersed.

I loved how relatable our main character is. Alfred Palmer, a chemist with a penchant for investigating was actually a real person and this allowed for him to become likable and believable which made him jump from the page.
Although this story is set a few years before the real Alfred settled in Wrexham, it works brilliantly as a gripping and thrilling tale.

A really enjoyable read with an interesting plot and great characters.

[Emma Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood Among The Threads is a Mystery novel by David Ebsworth.
It's 1876, and Palmer has been forced to take up the position of the curator for the forthcoming Wrexham Art Exhibition after the original choice was killed by a snake bite.
There are more deaths and as he tries to solve one of them, a tapestry draws him in and he is joined by his Girlfriend, Ettie.
The case is finally solved but he and Ettie end up in danger and begin to wonder if they can reveal their findings.
This is the first novel that I have read by the author and it definitely won't be the last. I was drawn in from the very first page and didn't stop reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I highly recommend it.
💖 Thank you to the author, David Ebsworth and @zooloobooktours for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I have lived in Wrexham myself for many years having a book set here really intrigued me.
The novel is a mystery set in victorian times and although not my most frequent genre of book I found this to be very enjoyable.

The author has clearly researched well for the subject and setting, and I found the writing flowed in a fast pace which allowed me to read comfortably.

If you are a fan of historical reads and mysteries this is a good one to consider trying.

[Sudeshna Banerjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover photo of the book is absolutely gorgeous and I was intrigued into reading this because of it.

In the shadow-laced corridors of Victorian London, ‘Blood Among The Threads’ unfurls a chilling mystery. Neobard Palmer, a man of keen intellect and steely resolve, is thrust into a labyrinth of death masquerading as mishap. Compelled to unravel the truth after the untimely demise of the initial investigator—felled by venomous fangs—Neobard’s curiosity is piqued by an enigmatic tapestry. As he delves deeper, the stakes soar, ensnaring both him and his beloved Ettie in a web of peril. With each thread they untangle, the couple must weigh the cost of their quest against the price of silence, for their very lives hang in the balance.

The writing skills of the author are flawless and I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored at all. Through the captivating writing style I could visualise the whole world building in front of my eyes. I had a great time Reading it while drinking coffee. I will highly recommend this book. Grab your copy today.

[callistoscalling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder and mayhem” are on the list of least likely occurrences in 1870’s Wrexham yet something dark has descended upon the city. This historical thriller is exquisitely written with language that genuinely makes you feel transported back into this era. History, art, and strongly written characters collide for a truly unique and masterful novel. The historical notes at the end add just another beautiful layer of appreciation for the details the author weaves seamlessly throughout the pages.

[Gem · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a really intriguing idea - taking a real person who existed and putting them in the middle of their own Victoria murder mystery. It was elegantly done and I enjoyed all the investigating that Palmer did. Surrounded by a whole group of unusual and potentially dangerous characters, it’s difficult for Palmer to know who he can really trust.

For all Palmer’s charm, I think my favourite character was actually the brusk Welsh Bethan Thomas who tells Palmer exactly what she is thinking and clearly imagines that he is a bit of a simpleton. She was very entertaining to read.

I think that David Ebsworth really brings Victorian Wrexham to life in this novel and he has obviously spent a lot of time researching Victorian Wales.

I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.

[Tyler Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for another historical fiction read?

From my past few reviews you can probably tell I've been knee deep in historical fictions recently, there's nothing like reading a book and being transported back to a time that you weren't even alive. David vividly captures 1876 England and has you feeling like you're living in it. Along with amazing characters that feel real and relatable I felt like I was living in this book.

From the start I was entrapped in this murder mystery alongside the mc, I wanted to know the answers to all the questions that we run into during this read. Alfreds tenacity to want solve the murder rubbed off on me and while I was guessing from the start who done it I was pretty far off. There is a myriad of twists and turns that will truly keep you entertained and locked in to this story.

David had me going back and reading more on the victorian era after consuming this book, I was really captivated by this time period after this read. I love when I finish a book and can take away something from it, this one had me wanting dive into the history of England and what life was like back in the day. Definitely would recommend this to not only my historical fiction lovers but anyone who loves a murder mystery!

[Pauline Render · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Alfred Palmer goes to Wrexham to curate it’s new museum, he becomes involved with a series of mysterious deaths which seem to be linked to a tapestry named Table Cover, said to be made from the cloth of soldiers’ uniforms. This was an interesting read with Palmer not being your typical hero, as his somewhat ill-health plays a part in his actions and his relationship with his sweetheart, Ettie. There’s plenty of intrigue throughout though, with questions surrounding a member of the Royal Family, the mysterious Senora Blackstone and coded notes. Although I quite liked Palmer, for me, my favourite character thought the book was Bethan Thomas, his unwilling museum assistant. And from the beginning I got a true sense of Wales in the late 1800’s, with vivid descriptions of life in those times, especially as when I read the acknowledgements and discovered that Alfred Palmer was in fact a real person.

[Ken Fuller · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 1876, Alfred Palmer travels to Wrexham in North Wales to curate its Art Treasures and Industrial Exhibition, the former occupant of that post having somewhat incongruously succumbed to snake-bite. Within days, journalist Kingston Morrison, with whom Palmer has traveled from Manchester, and who is reticent when asked about the real reason for his visit, is dead, having apparently fallen from a bridge. Morrison’s widow asks Palmer to investigate the death so that she may be reassured that it was, indeed, an accident, and before long he suspects murder.
The local police show no enthusiasm for investigating what was obviously an accident and discourage him from pursuing his own inquiries. The wife of Major William Cornwallis West, chairman of the Exhibition’s organizing committee and Lord Lieutenant of Denbighshire, is, for no apparent reason, openly hostile to him. And what is the role of Faustina Blackstone, the Spanish matron of the local workhouse who, claiming she had known Morrison in London, admits to having visited him in his hotel shortly before his death?
Returning to town from a visit to the workhouse, where he may have been drugged, Palmer is ridden down and seriously injured. He is by now engrossed in attempting to decipher the shorthand notes left by Morrison, some of which are one night stolen during the course of a burglary. A man employed at the workhouse apparently commits suicide and, investigating this, the police find that he was the burglar.
Palmer has been able to decipher some of the Morrison notes that he has retained, and finds a reference to the case, which Morrison had investigated, of Sir Charles Mordaunt, whose wife had an affair with the Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VII). There are also references to Faustina Blackstone, who may have been a prostitute or madam in London, and Mary Cornwallis West.
Does this case, with its mounting death-toll, boil down to an attempt to keep the lid on an explosive scandal involving a member of the royal family?
The answer lies towards the end of this thoroughly-researched novel—his twelfth—by David Ebsworth. Some may find the protagonist, Alfred Palmer, somewhat too frail to survive some of the challenges to which he is subjected. By far the most fascinating character in the book is Faustina Blackstone, the sinister and yet curiously alluring sixtyish woman with a tragic past in her native Spain. If film-makers are attracted to this book, it will be her character which sparks their interest.

[B. J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I876. Two men travel to Wrexham aboard a train from Manchester. One is a newspaperman with a reputation for sniffing out a scandal, and the second, Alfred Palmer, chemist, curator and nascent sleuth escaping the soot of Manchester, an importunate fiancée and disapproving future father-in-law. Fate has delivered Alfred the perfect solution to his troubles in Manchester: curatorship of an exhibition of museum treasures in the border town.
The only snag is that the previous incumbent has succumbed to an adder bite and the sheer oddity of this is just something that the obsessively ordered and logical Alfred cannot square at all. Then his erstwhile travelling companion, the journalist Morrison, winds up dead after penning an inflammatory article about the finance of the exhibition. After a very cursory coroner's inquest into the death of the correspondent, Alfred's suspicions compel him to delve into the hidden depths of local society and soon the game is well and truly afoot as mishaps and mysteries multiply, impelling the tale's unlikely hero into increasing jeopardy.
As Alfred navigates his way through the obfuscation of officialdom, social snobbery, and prejudice against his outsider status it is clear that he has stumbled upon a case as labyrinthine and complex as the strange coverlet (an exhibit) which seems to hold the key. Danger and hostility swirl like a thickening miasma around Alfred as his investigation leads him to realise that he is dangerously embroiled in a conspiracy that reaches into the very seat of power.
A wonderfully drawn cast of characters, replete with authentic Victorian dialogue and quirky customs (there is a memorable account of an Eisteddfod) reflect the border town's unique Anglo-Welsh status, offering an insight into the broad social sweep of the bustling energy and self-importance that personified mid-Victorian Britain. The novel's historical and geographical detail is detailed and meticulous, and the reader discovers and is delighted by morsels of the past never before savoured.
As for the amateur sleuth Palmer, he is certainly a complex but refreshingly different character who, despite frequent allusions to the Penny Dreadful, Dickensian caricatures and Marryat, cleverly avoids the usual literary stereo types of the detective. The final pursuit of Palmer’s quarry is arguably on a par with that of Buchan's hero, Richard Hannay.
An engaging and immersive period piece that will grow and grow on the reader.

[alisdiscovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood Among The Threads by David Ebsworth is an historical, mystery, crime thriller and as I read through the first thing that struck me is the writing style. It felt true to the time period and so easily transported me back to Victorian England, I could almost feel I was there from the beginning as Ebsworth draws you in with each page moving through layers of intrigue and mystery. I loved the backdrop of the Art Treasures exhibition it added a depth to the mystery and for all of her faults and foibles I loved the character Bethan Thomas. Ebsworth made her come alive with his vivid description and at times she even made me chuckle although I was not sure I was meant to.
The descriptions of the time Ettie and Alfred Neo moved along the streets of Wrexham made the journey come alive a testament, I think again to Ebsworth’s writing. I also enjoyed the character Ettie she was a formidable female and in the backdrop of 1857 she captivated me with her strength breathing life into the pages with her determination and unbelievable spirit, I just wished that Alfred Neo would stop dithering at times, but it just showed how involved in the story line I was.
In conclusion, a great Victorian Mystery with the writing allowing me to immerse myself in the period, vivid characters with some humour along the way. A must for lovers of a good Victorian Mystery that is filled with intrigue and will keep you on the edge of your seat.

[Kelvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced Reading Copy Review.
Blood Among the Threads is historical fiction with a difference. For his twelth novel the author has created this Victorian "what if" mystery from information gleaned whilst compiling a Guide to the History of Wrexham.

It is 1876, the principal character and most unlikely heroe is the real life Alfred Neobard Palmer. He has been forced to take up the position of curator of the forth coming Wrexham Art Treasures Exhibition after the death by snake venom of the original choice.

Further suspicious deaths, a promise to investigate one of them and a seemingly hypnotic tapestry reluctantly draws Palmer, no amateur sleuth, deeper into what he believes is a cover up that goes right to the top of Victorian society.

Joined by his younger girl friend the courageous Ettie, Palmer continues his investigation despite being physically threatened as well as being warned off by members of the establishment.

The truth is finally revealed but not before both he and Ettie find themselves in mortal danger. But will they ever be able to reveal it?

David Ebsworth with his usual eye for detail and ability to weave fiction and historical truth together captures the period perfectly. I thoroughly recommend this his latest book to both fans of the author and those interested in Victorian yarns and social history.

[barry l metcalfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood Among the Threads
Once again David has conjured to life a believable and historically accurate representation of a real town with a semi-buried history. Wrexham, North Wales was, in the 1870’s, a wealthy industrial town based on coal and steel. The reader gets to know the town along with the principal character, Mr Palmer. (a sketch map of the town, as at that date, would have been most helpful at this point).
Mr Palmer, a trained chemist, physically weak but with a keen and tenacious mind plus an avid interest in history, has been summoned to Wrexham to replace the curator to the two private museums attached to the imminent opening of the North Wales Art and Treasures Exhibition. The previous curator having met a sudden, and to some, a very suspicious death.
The plot itself lacks substance but the linkages between the various points along the road to discovery are nicely constructed, utilizing the culture and attitudes prevalent at that time, the rigid adherence to the class based society and even referencing a popular ditty of that year. There is enough action and violence to keep the pages turning and interspersed throughout with a touching courtship which together make for a pleasant and thoroughly enjoyable read --and leaves me thankful that I was born in the mid 1900’s.

Barry M. Clwyd, N.Wales November 2023

[mommy_and_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

" [...] There is a tide in the affairs of men, Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune. [...] "

Do you like books with a dark style? David Ebsworth took me to his dark and mysterious world. His book "Blood Among. The Threads" is refined in every detail. I met intriguing characters. I have dealt with surprising deaths. Will the ongoing investigation determine the cause and reason for the deaths of these people? Let me tell you, it won't be that easy. The main character Alfred Neobard Palmer and his girlfriend Ettie Francis will be in danger. Why? Someone really doesn't want the truth to come out. It is worth reading this book to the end. The first person to die will be Widow Rose Wimpole. Who will be next? You will see for yourself when reading this unique story. The beautiful cover is also worth attention. This snake is brilliant. I hope the author will create another such good story soon. The setting of this book is the 19th century. If you like this period, be sure to read "Blood Among. The Threads". This historical thriller charmed me with its uniqueness. The intrigue is perfectly placed here. I encourage you to learn about the fate of Alfred Neobard Palmer. It's impossible to get bored with this hero. Will he and his chosen one be the perfect amateur detectives? I am also delighted with the historical background.

[Judy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

David Ebsworth’s latest novel – it’s another page turner!
This story is set in his home town of Wrexham, (a city now, in fact) and his knowledge and love of the town shines through. It’s amazing how the writer’s imagination is sparked by just an anecdote, or a picture and then around these little scraps of knowledge he weaves a tale just as intricate and well made as the Wrexham Tailor’s Quilt, which figures in the story. (Yes, there really is a Wrexham Quilt and its still displayed in the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff).

Palmer is the hero of the story – a Methodist lay preacher with a bad chest and a tobacco addiction. He is not a good marriage prospect but like a true hero, even though physically he is battered and scared he ‘feels the fear and does it anyway’ and this leads him into tense and dangerous waters. David Ebsworth’s graphic descriptions of violent fights and sadism had me on the edge of my seat turning the pages as fast as I could.

I really enjoyed the book, especially as Wrexham is in the news so much these days. And don’t skip the notes at the back they are a are a little gem of a tale in themselves!

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This well thought out historical mystery was packed with details from the past. Alfred Neobard Palmer has moved to Wrexham temporarily to become a curator of the Art Treasures Exhibition which includes a coverlet made from soldier’s uniforms. As people begin to die in situations that mirror scenes depicted on the coverlet he begins to ask questions. The more questions he asks the more dangerous things become. Who can he trust? Could there really be blood among the threads? Will he figure it out before he puts himself and his sweetheart in grave danger? This story had me wondering right along with Palmer about the connections between the characters and who could be trusted. Lovers of history and mystery will devour this book.

Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well.. what can I say.. This is my first book by this author, and I'm so glad that I got to be part of this tour! First, I want to say how good the cover is?! The main character is Alfred Neobard Palmer, who is based on the real-life analytical chemist and local historian. As i was reading this, i did get sidetracked and looked into him a bit more, I do enjoy finding out about people and places history.

You can tell that this novel has been well researched by the author, the little touches /descriptions for that era, the language used was not overly complicated/ overdone for that time. I loved that the plot was full of twists and turns that you would expect from this genre, but it was done in a way that fits with the time period and with the storyline.

For anyone who hasn't tried a Historical Mystery/Thriller/Crime, I would definitely recommend this. You won't be disappointed!

[Barbara Ling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This "what if" Victorian mystery involving the real life character Alfred Neobard Palmer shines a light on this period in history.
Alfred and Ellie, the woman he loves dearly, become reluctant amateur sleuths investigating suspicious deaths which lead them to the very top of British society and puts them into danger from those who will stop at nothing to protect the rich and powerful.
Will they both survive? You will have to read the book to find out!
This is the 12th book by David Ebsworth, all of which have been carefully researched with an eye for detail and historical content. I recommend this book to those already familiar with the books of this author and to newcomers.
Barbara Ling

[Tami Wylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What makes this dark, victorian mystery unique, is that the main character, Alfred Neobard Palmer is based on the real life historian of Wrexham. Knowing that he was a real person really brought the story, albeit fictitious, to life. The book clearly reflects the author's meticulous research and attention to detail. In the book, neobard takes the job of a museum curator after the death of the previous curator, who died unusually from a snake bite. Neobard quickly decides her death is suspicious and determines to get tot he bottom to it. However, he soon finds himself and his love interest Ettie in mortal peril. The story is quite intriguing and enjoyable. The incredible detail and the exquisite creation of a whole host of unforgettable characters and plot makes this an excellent read.

[Norah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hugely enjoyable murder mystery, set in the town of Wrexham in Victorian times, with a superb feeling for place and period. Evokes the sights, sounds and even smells of a hard-working, bustling industrial town. Scandal in high places, superstition around deaths linked to an unusual museum exhibit, plus an interesting and likeable hero, Alfred Palmer, all these make for a really great read. Hope more tales of Alfred and his sweetheart Ettie may follow!

[Michael Tidball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another great book from this master storyteller! Written with great attention to detail so you learn more about the characters and the settings and are drawn more into the plight of the hero. The more I got into the book, the harder it was to put it down as there are twists and turns with every chapter. It’s a great detective story and although a work of fiction it’s wrapped in the history of late nineteenth century Wrexham with the painstaking research of this author.

[Ian Lucas]

“Hugely enjoyable murder mystery, set in the town of Wrexham in Victorian times, with a superb feeling for place and period. Evokes the sights, sounds and even smells of a hard-working, bustling industrial town. Scandal in high places, superstition around deaths linked to an unusual museum exhibit, plus an interesting and likeable hero, Alfred Palmer, all these make for a really great read. Hope more tales of Alfred and his sweetheart Ettie may follow!”

[Pauline Vickers · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant Victorian murder mystery story and so much more

A brilliant, easy and enjoyable read. Story based in Wrexham with lots of historical references including the Gladstone, Disraeli and the Art Treasures Exhibition, held in Wrexham, in 1876. There are many interesting characters to follow including the feisty and courageous Ettie. The many twists and turns make this a real page turner and keep you captivated throughout.

[Eleanor · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all how stunning is this cover! This book is a gripping historical mystery centring around our protagonist Neobard Palmer, who actually existed in history although the book is fiction, delving into a mysterious death and discovering not all is as it seems! The twists were constant and the book was well paced and enjoyable. I enjoyed the historic twist on the classic murder mystery/thriller type book and loved the context and the setting. Really enjoyable read!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well researched historical novel as well as an intriguing mystery. Perhaps some of the crime fiction I've read recently has been too predictable. This one I found I had to flip back a page to keep track of characters and incidents.
I'm pleased to hear there's a sequel and look forward to reading it.

[Christina Bate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A novel with intrigue in every twist and every turn. Ebsworth's ability to create a rich range of characters and to illuminate real places and history within his fiction shines through. An essential read for those who seek mystery and suspense on every page.