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(Saul Anguish, #0.5) #.5
A Boy Called Saul
It’s time to go back to the beginning . . .
Saul Anguish is a clever but troubled teenager with a dark past and a love of nature.
Etta Fitzroy is a former police detective who now lives in New York, but is called back to London to help in a missing persons case.
Saul and Etta had met two years before when five-year-old Clara Foyle was kidnapped by a serial killer, whose evil deeds had left scars on them both.
When Saul discovers a ‘graveyard’ on an island near his home town in Essex and Etta comes to investigate, the past comes back to haunt them both, and Saul will have to decide who he can trust.
Saul Anguish is a clever but troubled teenager with a dark past and a love of nature.
Etta Fitzroy is a former police detective who now lives in New York, but is called back to London to help in a missing persons case.
Saul and Etta had met two years before when five-year-old Clara Foyle was kidnapped by a serial killer, whose evil deeds had left scars on them both.
When Saul discovers a ‘graveyard’ on an island near his home town in Essex and Etta comes to investigate, the past comes back to haunt them both, and Saul will have to decide who he can trust.
128 pages, Paperback
Published April 10, 2025
7 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Cummins
13 books564 followersFiona Cummins is an award-winning former Daily Mirror showbusiness journalist and a graduate of the Faber Academy Writing A Novel course. She lives in Essex with her family. Rattle is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 10, 2025
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great little prequel to a series I love!!
It’s time to go back to the beginning… Saul Anguish is a clever but troubled teenager with a dark past and a love of nature.
Etta Fitzroy is a former police detective who now lives in New York but is called back to London to help in a missing persons case.
Saul and Etta met two years before when 5year old Clara Foyle was kidnapped by a serial killer whose evil deeds left scars on them both.
This story is set at the beginning of this series by Fiona Cummins, you need not have read any of the series first however some references to the first book are throughout.
I love this series… I love all the books in them and one of the things I love is that you barely know its a series at all, yes Saul is in them but there is a subtly to it that I love. For the record I also loved When I was Ten by Fiona Cummins which is not part of this series… not that you asked but… here we are 🤣
This is a short approx 120 pages and because I reside outside the UK I had to order the paperback on Amazon, it was a little pricey for how big it was but I believe the proceeds go to charity so I was ok with it. I couldn’t get a kindle version.
I really liked this short prequel, did we need it… no… but why not have it anyway. I like a good origin story and its set just after book one (The Collector) and I liked the way that Etta and Saul came back together, still kind of adversaries but also kind of friends.
There isn’t much to say about this other that wont spoil the short novella, so I wont do that… but I will say if you are a fan of this series, of Fiona Cummins or just fancy a short read then I think get it. If you hate this series… then this will not be for you. I think that fans of the series will get more out of it than non fans. It is written really well in Fiona’s style and easy to digest in one sitting.
It’s time to go back to the beginning… Saul Anguish is a clever but troubled teenager with a dark past and a love of nature.
Etta Fitzroy is a former police detective who now lives in New York but is called back to London to help in a missing persons case.
Saul and Etta met two years before when 5year old Clara Foyle was kidnapped by a serial killer whose evil deeds left scars on them both.
This story is set at the beginning of this series by Fiona Cummins, you need not have read any of the series first however some references to the first book are throughout.
I love this series… I love all the books in them and one of the things I love is that you barely know its a series at all, yes Saul is in them but there is a subtly to it that I love. For the record I also loved When I was Ten by Fiona Cummins which is not part of this series… not that you asked but… here we are 🤣
This is a short approx 120 pages and because I reside outside the UK I had to order the paperback on Amazon, it was a little pricey for how big it was but I believe the proceeds go to charity so I was ok with it. I couldn’t get a kindle version.
I really liked this short prequel, did we need it… no… but why not have it anyway. I like a good origin story and its set just after book one (The Collector) and I liked the way that Etta and Saul came back together, still kind of adversaries but also kind of friends.
There isn’t much to say about this other that wont spoil the short novella, so I wont do that… but I will say if you are a fan of this series, of Fiona Cummins or just fancy a short read then I think get it. If you hate this series… then this will not be for you. I think that fans of the series will get more out of it than non fans. It is written really well in Fiona’s style and easy to digest in one sitting.
November 6, 2025
What a fantastic insight to Saul Anguish A Boy Called Saul is! It might be a short story but it sure packs a punch.
Fiona Cummins is a great storyteller and I can't wait to read more from her. Loved it!
Fiona Cummins is a great storyteller and I can't wait to read more from her. Loved it!
July 17, 2025
I always enjoy the Quick Reads stories. This is one of my favourites. Saul Anguish appears in a few of Fiona Cummins novels as a detective. This is his story as a young man which I found interesting and emotional. He had a hard childhood and he becomes an unusual adult who I really like.
April 23, 2025
Rating: 3.8/5
"A Boy Called Saul" is part of the 2025 Quick Reads programme from The Reading Agency. The scheme is primarily intended to attract new readers or to tempt lapsed readers back into the fold, but you don't need to fall into either of those categories. Personally, I am a very much a supporter and always try to read all of the books they publish each year.
That point aside, I also have great admiration for any writer who can successfully tackle the short story format. There is a real skill in constructing a rounded story, with fleshed-out characters in the space of a hundred or so pages. Author, Fiona Cummins certainly pulls it off with this captivating example of the genre.
"A Boy Called Saul" is part of the 2025 Quick Reads programme from The Reading Agency. The scheme is primarily intended to attract new readers or to tempt lapsed readers back into the fold, but you don't need to fall into either of those categories. Personally, I am a very much a supporter and always try to read all of the books they publish each year.
That point aside, I also have great admiration for any writer who can successfully tackle the short story format. There is a real skill in constructing a rounded story, with fleshed-out characters in the space of a hundred or so pages. Author, Fiona Cummins certainly pulls it off with this captivating example of the genre.
May 18, 2025
I really enjoyed A Boy Called Saul. It’s a dark and emotional story that had me hooked from the start. The main character, Saul, is really interesting and I can’t help but feel for him even when he makes bad choices. The writing is easy to get into, and the book keeps you guessing without being too confusing. There are a few twists, and I didn’t see all of them coming, which made it even better.
The only reason I didn’t give it five stars is that I wanted to know more about a couple of the side characters. Though this is something I can counteract by reading more of her books.
Overall, it’s a really good read tense, sad, and gripping. If you like crime stories that focus on people and what makes them tick, this one is definitely worth picking up.
The only reason I didn’t give it five stars is that I wanted to know more about a couple of the side characters. Though this is something I can counteract by reading more of her books.
Overall, it’s a really good read tense, sad, and gripping. If you like crime stories that focus on people and what makes them tick, this one is definitely worth picking up.
January 18, 2026
This book is the perfect piece to the Saul puzzle. You not only have the answer on how he joined the force but also what happens to Etta. I think Fiona could never have done better with the story of this pair yet tackling Goria at the same time. I could not find fault with any of her work.
April 14, 2025
A nice easy read with likeable characters and I enjoyed the fact Etta and Saul had a past history.
I couldn't help but feel sorry for Saul and the upbringing he'd had. However by the end of the book thanks to Etta being the only person to show kindness to Saul, we are left with hope that he will turn his life around and make something of himself by joining the police force.
I couldn't help but feel sorry for Saul and the upbringing he'd had. However by the end of the book thanks to Etta being the only person to show kindness to Saul, we are left with hope that he will turn his life around and make something of himself by joining the police force.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2025
I've got a confession. I read so far into this short story and then realised there was a connection to Fiona's previous books. So, before I spoiled anything for myself, I then went back and read "Rattle" and "The Collector," and I'm so pleased I did.
Although Saul's story is a series of its own, it largely links back to Fiona's first two books. I have to admit this was ingenious. This short story seamlessly brings all the books together in a short but swift smack in the face. I bloody loved it!
So, do not be alarmed if you've followed Saul's story without reading "Rattle" or "The Collector"; it's okay, you will easily follow Saul's detective story because Fiona has worked her magic where you don't feel like you're missing a thing. The way everything is woven into each tale is brilliant.
However, I would highly recommend, if you've got the time and want to know Saul on a deeper level, to start at the start. Be prepared; you will be taken on one heck of a reading journey.
New to Cummins? Well, then look no further because this will be a tempting little taster you won't be able to forget, and I know your newfound addiction is about to commence from these glorious 128 pages.
This short story does align everything together. It connects dots I didn't even realize I needed.
It answers one question that's been laying dormant in the back of my mind: "How did Saul become a detective?" This confirms it.
This is Saul's story as a young boy. A highly unsettled and disturbing upbringing. A very toxic environment for such a young child to witness. It provides a great insight into the quirks and odd behaviors that he now carries on his shoulders.
The book explores the psychological trauma caused by pain inflicted on a young child, as well as the damage that this transfers into adult characteristics. It's a gripping tale, every bit dark, unsettling, and absorbing.
Although short, this is a typical Cummins complex type of story, with a great, varying cast of characters who are compelling, intriguing, and even a bit frightening.
This is binge-worthy, and I completed this in one sitting; I couldn't put it down. I felt very satisfied when finishing this little snippet and it made me even more excited to read the next book coming out in June, "Some of Us Are Liars."
Although Saul's story is a series of its own, it largely links back to Fiona's first two books. I have to admit this was ingenious. This short story seamlessly brings all the books together in a short but swift smack in the face. I bloody loved it!
So, do not be alarmed if you've followed Saul's story without reading "Rattle" or "The Collector"; it's okay, you will easily follow Saul's detective story because Fiona has worked her magic where you don't feel like you're missing a thing. The way everything is woven into each tale is brilliant.
However, I would highly recommend, if you've got the time and want to know Saul on a deeper level, to start at the start. Be prepared; you will be taken on one heck of a reading journey.
New to Cummins? Well, then look no further because this will be a tempting little taster you won't be able to forget, and I know your newfound addiction is about to commence from these glorious 128 pages.
This short story does align everything together. It connects dots I didn't even realize I needed.
It answers one question that's been laying dormant in the back of my mind: "How did Saul become a detective?" This confirms it.
This is Saul's story as a young boy. A highly unsettled and disturbing upbringing. A very toxic environment for such a young child to witness. It provides a great insight into the quirks and odd behaviors that he now carries on his shoulders.
The book explores the psychological trauma caused by pain inflicted on a young child, as well as the damage that this transfers into adult characteristics. It's a gripping tale, every bit dark, unsettling, and absorbing.
Although short, this is a typical Cummins complex type of story, with a great, varying cast of characters who are compelling, intriguing, and even a bit frightening.
This is binge-worthy, and I completed this in one sitting; I couldn't put it down. I felt very satisfied when finishing this little snippet and it made me even more excited to read the next book coming out in June, "Some of Us Are Liars."
July 4, 2025
Synopsis:
Etta Fitzroy, a former UK detective that now lives in New York, receives a call for help by her former boss in London. Someone has been pawning valuable items of people who have disappeared and the only lead they have so far is a boy called Saul Anguish, who previously helped them catch a serial killer...
"A Boy Called Saul" is part of the UK's "Quick Reads" programme of short stories that is aimed at improving people's reading skills.
Thus, the language used in the book is quite simple, but the plot is still engaging enough. I could easily relate to the young boy's struggles, living in a council flat with his alcoholic mother, as well as the distrust of authority he feels.
Personally, I am not familiar with Fiona Cummins' books, but I feel like this Quick Read is a great introduction into her books without having to commit to 400 pages - it's sort of "try before you buy" and I like that concept.
Ironically though, I prefer longer books since as you can imagine, the introduction was quite short, so was the build-up and the conclusion.
It's difficult to write a short crime story without the plot sounding far-fetched or overwhelming the reader with multiple (underdeveloped) characters. Since the author did incredibly well for the format, I'm now looking forward to reading more of her (longer) works.
If you're struggling to meet your reading targets for this year, look no further than "A Boy Called Saul".
Etta Fitzroy, a former UK detective that now lives in New York, receives a call for help by her former boss in London. Someone has been pawning valuable items of people who have disappeared and the only lead they have so far is a boy called Saul Anguish, who previously helped them catch a serial killer...
"A Boy Called Saul" is part of the UK's "Quick Reads" programme of short stories that is aimed at improving people's reading skills.
Thus, the language used in the book is quite simple, but the plot is still engaging enough. I could easily relate to the young boy's struggles, living in a council flat with his alcoholic mother, as well as the distrust of authority he feels.
Personally, I am not familiar with Fiona Cummins' books, but I feel like this Quick Read is a great introduction into her books without having to commit to 400 pages - it's sort of "try before you buy" and I like that concept.
Ironically though, I prefer longer books since as you can imagine, the introduction was quite short, so was the build-up and the conclusion.
It's difficult to write a short crime story without the plot sounding far-fetched or overwhelming the reader with multiple (underdeveloped) characters. Since the author did incredibly well for the format, I'm now looking forward to reading more of her (longer) works.
If you're struggling to meet your reading targets for this year, look no further than "A Boy Called Saul".
April 25, 2025
As a longtime fan of Fiona Cummins, A Boy Called Saul was an absolute treat. Cummins has a knack for creating complex, chilling characters, and in this short story, she gives us a deeper look into one of her most enigmatic: Saul.
Getting insight into Saul’s childhood and the trauma that shaped him was both fascinating and disturbing in the best possible way. It adds so much depth to his character and gives readers a richer understanding of how his twisted mind was formed. The story may be short, but it packs a powerful punch—dark, compelling, and emotionally charged.
I loved the subtle connections to other characters in her world. The way Cummins weaves in those links without forcing them is part of what makes her writing so brilliant. This was a quick read, but every page served a purpose, and it stayed with me long after I finished.
Whether you’re already familiar with her work or just dipping your toes in, A Boy Called Saul is a must-read—dark, insightful, and incredibly well done.
Getting insight into Saul’s childhood and the trauma that shaped him was both fascinating and disturbing in the best possible way. It adds so much depth to his character and gives readers a richer understanding of how his twisted mind was formed. The story may be short, but it packs a powerful punch—dark, compelling, and emotionally charged.
I loved the subtle connections to other characters in her world. The way Cummins weaves in those links without forcing them is part of what makes her writing so brilliant. This was a quick read, but every page served a purpose, and it stayed with me long after I finished.
Whether you’re already familiar with her work or just dipping your toes in, A Boy Called Saul is a must-read—dark, insightful, and incredibly well done.
April 27, 2025
It's extremely difficult to write a good and fully rounded short story. I've read all of Fiona Cummins books and enjoyed them all, especially the earlier ones. This was just ok.
We are taken back to a time in Saul's life when he's struggling to find his way. His father is dead, his mother an alcoholic and himself with no obvious pathway.
Etta is asked to return to her old job as a police detective in London (really?) and she says yes with barely a backward glance. This was pretty unbelievable, to be honest. But necessary I suppose to make an interesting story line.
Then it all gets a bit Enid Blyton with two burley men (one with a scar) getting up to allsorts. Not particularly believable at any point but as a quick read, okay.
We are taken back to a time in Saul's life when he's struggling to find his way. His father is dead, his mother an alcoholic and himself with no obvious pathway.
Etta is asked to return to her old job as a police detective in London (really?) and she says yes with barely a backward glance. This was pretty unbelievable, to be honest. But necessary I suppose to make an interesting story line.
Then it all gets a bit Enid Blyton with two burley men (one with a scar) getting up to allsorts. Not particularly believable at any point but as a quick read, okay.
May 7, 2025
It was great to catch up with Saul Anguish as an eighteen year old! Saul is an extremely intelligent young man and is a lover of nature. Ex police officer, Etta Fitzroy, is called back from New York to help her old boss with a missing person case. This leads Etta to meet Saul again, after they had first met on the Clara Foyle escape two years previously. Far too soon, bodies are found on an island, where Etta must uncover the background how they came to be there? This was a brilliant read with great characters and location descriptions.
August 24, 2025
Quick reads are short books from best selling authors, something to kill an hour or two (depending on how fast you read). This book was just fast paced enough to keep you interested but did reference a serial killer story a few times which makes me think there's a longer book out there surrounding that. I felt it skipped ahead quickly in parts (hence a quick read) but not enough to take away from the story itself. First time reading this author, I enjoyed her style of writing and will try some of her full length novels in the future.
September 2, 2025
A boy called Saul is, I suppose, an origin story. It introduces us to 18-year-old Saul Anguish and his life before he becomes a detective. It tells of the events that led up to this. It’s a short read and I really enjoyed it. I really felt for Saul. He was definitely in a bad situation and headed for trouble. In my opinion, Etta was an angel sent to help him turn his life around and reach his potential. The story is well written and engaging. I can’t wait to meet Saul again in the Saul Anguish series.
September 20, 2025
Saul Anguish is an eighteen year old. Saul is an extremely intelligent young man and is a lover of nature. Ex police officer, Etta Fitzroy, is called back from New York to help her old boss with a missing person case. This leads Etta to meet Saul again, after they had first met on the Clara Foyle escape two years previously. Far too soon, bodies are found on an island, where Etta must uncover the background and how they came to be there.
April 29, 2025
Quick Reads ’25 release, this is set two years after the events in Rattle and The Collector. Former detective Etta Fitzroy is back in Essex, brought in by her old boss to investigate missing persons. She meets up with Saul, now 18, and helps him out when his mother disappears too. At 107 pages, there isn’t a chance for the story to develop in depth, but still was a decent read.
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May 26, 2025Loved reading this story of when Saul was a teenager. I've really enjoyed his story through Fiona's main books and this was a chance to glimpse another reason why Saul reacts the way he does. Most of our adult lives are written in our childhood and Saul is no exception. This glimpse only makes me more curious to read Fiona's next instalment. Five Stars!
April 25, 2025
Reflections and lessons learned/the content of this book made me feel…
…that conveying a large theoretical and character based tory can be hard to develop to action within a short story of around 110 pages
…that conveying a large theoretical and character based tory can be hard to develop to action within a short story of around 110 pages
August 3, 2025
A great introduction to the dark and mysterious Saul Anguish. He is a good kid at heart and has had a very troubled start in life. A great short read to allow to learn what makes Saul tick before we get to meet him properly in the rest of the Saul Anguish series.
September 8, 2025
🎧 This is a short story at 3hrs long. Quick easy listen that moves at a steady pace. Well developed likeable characters along with a well developed start to what is a series. Saul is definitely a character you could love.
April 16, 2025
Yet another fantastic read in the series.
I hope these encourage people into a reading habit. Ditch the TV and read more is my advice.
Nice one Fiona.
I hope these encourage people into a reading habit. Ditch the TV and read more is my advice.
Nice one Fiona.
April 19, 2025
I really like the concept of quick reads. This book seems to be the second part of a series. I wish I had read the first one.
April 29, 2025
A nice little read, not very exciting but still interesting.
May 3, 2025
A great quick read adding to the Saul Anguish series.
May 7, 2025
loved this! will definitely go back to the beginning to read the whole story
May 20, 2025
A lovely short story that’s got a great plot to tell. Really enjoyed it.
June 8, 2025
I wanted a lot more but then it wouldn't have been a quick read so fair enough. Good little story and to get out of a reading slump!
July 24, 2025
A compelling and mysterious short story
August 23, 2025
World Book Night April 2025
A strange crime novel but a quick read. A good style of writing which makes me think a full length novel may be quite a good read.
A strange crime novel but a quick read. A good style of writing which makes me think a full length novel may be quite a good read.
August 31, 2025
It's not easy to develop characteres and an extensive plot in a short book. It's enjoyable enought to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews