City Under Siege

In 1941, Detective Inspector Stefan Gillespie is sent to Malta to investigate a series of murders that may be linked to a British soldier. The murders were not considered a priority due to the war, but an identical murder in Malta makes investigation essential. Gillespie is sent to Malta to find the killer, but there are threats deadlier than German bombs in the dark streets of Valletta.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 08 July 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Detective Inspector Stefan Gillespie is transporting documents between Dublin and the war-torn city of London in 1941. Stefan rescues Ireland's most famous actor from an embarrassing situation when he is arrested in Soho after the brutal murder of a gay man. However, Stefan soon finds himself confronted with a series of murders that span across Britain and Ireland. These deaths were previously not given much attention due to their low priority status. However, there are compelling reasons to delve deeper into these cases now. Not only is there a possibility that the killer is a British soldier, but Scotland Yard is also concealing the truth about the victim. Furthermore, an identical murder occurs in Malta, making it essential for an investigation to take place. Malta, situated at the center of the Mediterranean war, is under constant attack from German and Italian bombers. Rumors that a British soldier has murdered a Maltese teenager cannot be ignored without jeopardizing loyalty to Britain. Consequently, Britain decides to cooperate with Ireland in their quest to find the killer. Stefan is dispatched to Malta, where the British believe the perpetrator to be an Irishman. They are determined to obtain this information from Stefan. However, the streets of Valletta harbor threats that are even more lethal than German bombs. Stefan must navigate through a web of deceit and danger, as he uncovers the truth behind the murders and confronts the dark forces that are determined to keep the truth hidden. This novel is a thrilling and atmospheric thriller that will keep readers guessing and gasping until the very end. Michael Russell's intricate plot and vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of Malta during World War II, where danger and intrigue lurk around every corner. Stefan Gillespie is a compelling protagonist, and his journey through the treacherous streets of Valletta is filled with suspense and emotion. The supporting characters, including the mysterious Mrs. Mallory and the enigmatic Mr. X, add depth and complexity to the story. Overall, "The Malta Murders" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery. It is a meticulously researched and well-written novel that offers a fresh perspective on a period of history that is often overlooked.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472130402