Breaking: A compelling debut from a new voice in Irish crime fiction

"Breaking" is a crime thriller that follows Dr. Mirren Fitzpatrick, who appeals to the world to help find her eight-year-old adopted daughter after she goes missing from the beach in the Florida Keys. The police are immediately suspicious of Mirren, and as rumors abound about her past, a trial-by-media ensues. When a small body is found dumped in the ocean, Mirren is turned from a figure of pity to the villain of the piece. The novel explores themes of motherhood, guilt, and the inescapable consequences of the past.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Canelo

Shortlisted for the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger 2023, "Breaking" is a gripping crime thriller by Ashley Audrain, the Sunday Times bestselling author of "The Push." Set in the Florida Keys, the story revolves around Dr. Mirren Fitzpatrick's desperate search for her eight-year-old adopted daughter, who vanishes from the beach during a family vacation. Despite the family's desperate pleas for help, Mirren becomes the prime suspect due to her past actions. As rumors spread about her, a trial-by-media ensues, turning her from a sympathetic figure to the villain of the piece. However, when a small body is discovered dumped in the ocean, the question arises: is Mirren a heartbroken mother or the architect of her daughter's fate?

"Breaking" is a stunning debut from a brilliant new voice in Irish crime fiction, perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn and Ashley Audrain. The novel delves into complex themes of motherhood, guilt, and the inescapable consequences of the past. With its fresh approach to storytelling and gripping plot, "Breaking" will leave readers questioning their own notions of motherhood and the sacrifices they would make for their children.

The writing in "Breaking" is masterful, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the sunny beaches and bustling streets of the Florida Keys. The characters are well-developed, with Mirren Fitzpatrick being a particularly compelling protagonist. Her struggles to balance her professional responsibilities with her personal life and the emotional toll of losing her daughter add depth to her character, making her relatable to readers.

One of the standout aspects of "Breaking" is its twisty plot. The novel keeps readers guessing until the very end, with numerous unexpected turns and revelations that keep the story engaging and suspenseful. The ending is as disturbing and moving as those opening beach-scene pages, leaving readers with a sense of ambiguity and reflection.

Overall, "Breaking" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and those who enjoy exploring the darker aspects of human nature. With its compelling characters, gripping plot, and thought-provoking themes, this debut novel promises to be a rising star in the genre. Ashley Audrain is an author to watch, and we can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804360088