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Val McDermid

Past Lying: The twisty new Karen Pirie thriller, now a major ITV series

Past Lying: The twisty new Karen Pirie thriller, now a major ITV series

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  • More about Past Lying: The twisty new Karen Pirie thriller, now a major ITV series


The No. 1 Sunday Times bestseller Val McDermid's Karen Pirie returns in a masterful thriller. When an author's manuscript appears to be a blueprint for an actual crime, Karen is drawn into a spiraling game of betrayal and revenge. She must uncover the truth before it's too late.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group


Edinburgh, a city steeped in the literary legacy of its past, serves as the backdrop for DCI Karen Pirie's thrilling investigations. However, when an author's manuscript emerges as a potential blueprint for a real-life crime, Karen finds herself facing an unexpected challenge. The manuscript bears uncanny similarities to an unsolved case from Edinburgh University, where a student vanished from her doorstep. The manuscript holds the key to unraveling the mystery of Lara Hardie's disappearance, but there's a catch: the author passed away before completing it.

Determined to uncover the truth, Karen delves deeper into the investigation, unearthing a web of betrayal and revenge. Lies intertwine with reality, and each twist brings forth a new level of suspense. As Karen navigates through a labyrinth of deceit, she realizes that the line between truth and illusion is blurred, and the stakes are higher than ever before.

Val McDermid, the Queen of Crime, showcases her unparalleled talent in this captivating and ingeniously intricate case. With her meticulous attention to detail and masterful storytelling, McDermid keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mysteries and confront the darkest corners of the human psyche.

Praise for Val McDermid's exceptional writing has flooded the literary world. Critics have hailed her as a supreme master of the genre, with accolades such as "irresistible," "brilliant," "outstanding," and "sensational" pouring in. Her novels have earned her a devoted following, and her talent for creating intricate plots and unforgettable characters has solidified her status as one of Britain's most accomplished writers.

In "Karen Pirie Returns," McDermid takes readers on a thrilling journey through the haunted streets of Edinburgh and into the depths of human darkness. With her signature style, she weaves a tapestry of suspense, intrigue, and psychological depth, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating series. Prepare to be immersed in a world of mystery, deception, and revenge, where nothing is as it seems, and the truth will ultimately prevail.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408729090

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