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

In the novel "Breaking," a child goes missing from the beach in the Florida Keys, and Dr. Mirren Fitzpatrick appeals to the world to help find her adopted daughter. The police are immediately suspicious of Mirren, and a trial-by-media ensues. A small body is found dumped in the ocean, and readers question their own notions of motherhood, guilt, and the inescapable consequences of the past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
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 remains: 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 fast-paced narrative and provocative prose, "Breaking" keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The characters in the story are well-developed and relatable, with Mirren's struggles to overcome her past and protect her family adding depth to the plot. The supporting characters, including Mirren's husband and the local police, also contribute to the story's tension and complexity.

One of the standout aspects of "Breaking" is its examination of maternal love. Audrain explores the expectations and pressures that weigh heavily on women, even in the most unthinkably dark moments. Mirren's love for her daughter is unwavering, but her actions and choices are shaped by her past experiences and the societal expectations surrounding motherhood.

The ending of "Breaking" is both disturbing and moving, leaving readers questioning their own notions of motherhood, guilt, and the inescapable consequences of the past. It is a testament to Audrain's skill as a storyteller and her ability to create a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.

Overall, "Breaking" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of motherhood and the human psyche. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, this debut novel promises to be a standout in the genre.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804361580