Murder Your Darlings: A smart, witty and engaging cozy crime novel

A woman dies at a creative writing retreat in Italy, and her teacher, Francis Meadowes, must investigate. He discovers betrayal, lies, secrets, and old scores to be settled, and danger lurks beneath the veneer of genteel and civilized behavior.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2023
Publisher: Open Road Media

In the picturesque setting of sunny Italy, a mysterious and unsettling event unfolds after a woman dies during a creative writing retreat, prompting her teacher, Francis Meadowes, to embark on a thrilling investigation. The retreat, held at the enchanting Villa Giulia in the remote Umbrian countryside, brings together a diverse group of students, each with their unique personalities and backgrounds. Among them are Poppy, a snooty and irate woman accompanied by her ex-ambassador husband; Liam, an eccentric Northern Irishman who expresses his anger through passionate poetry about the Troubles; Sasha, a kooky American who is younger than most of the group; and Tony, a mysterious individual who may be a spy.

However, the serene atmosphere of the retreat is abruptly shattered when one of the group members is found dead in the sauna. The local police, recognizing the need for expert assistance, turn to Francis, an amateur sleuth with a keen eye for detail. As Francis delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of betrayal, lies, and secrets that threaten to unravel the peaceful facade of the villa.

What initially seemed like a simple case of murder soon becomes a complex puzzle, with every character hiding their own motivations and agendas. Francis must navigate through a maze of lies, deceit, and hidden motives, using his sharp intellect and intuition to piece together the truth. Along the way, he encounters a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and ulterior motives, adding to the suspense and intrigue of the story.

As Francis unravels the mystery, he discovers that danger lurks beneath the genteel and civilized veneer of the villa. Old scores, long-buried grudges, and hidden alliances come to light, putting Francis and his students in grave danger. With time running out, Francis must use all his skills and resources to expose the truth and bring the culprits to justice before it is too late.

In this captivating and suspenseful tale, author Francis Meadowes weaves a intricate web of mystery and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its vivid descriptions, well-developed characters, and surprising twists, "The Dead in the Sauna" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery with a touch of glamour and sophistication.

Dimension: 203 x 133 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781504087629