The Turnglass

The Turnglass is a crime mystery novel by Gareth Rubin, set in 1880s England and 1930s California. It follows the stories of Simeon Lee, a young doctor who treats his cousin Parson Oliver Hawes on the island of Ray, and Oliver Tooke, a celebrated author who is found dead in his writing hut off the coast of Turnglass House. The novel is a tête-bêche novel, which means it has two different narratives that magically come together. The book has received praise for its intricate plot, memorable characters, and bold writing style.

Format: Hardback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

Prepare to be captivated by the ingenious and intriguing new crime mystery from Sunday Times bestselling author Gareth Rubin, set to release in hardback Autumn 2024.

The Turnglass is a bold, breathtaking piece of writing that flawlessly combines two books into one ingenious conceit. I highly doubt I'll ever encounter anything like it again, which is the highest praise I can give. Stuart Turton

Not just a book, but an experience—one in which twists and turns are both on the page and in the very act of reading itself. Two haunting narratives conspire to create a dark, menacing tale that spans half a century of secrets, echoing back and forth as the sand slowly drains away. This is a story about stories and their perspectives, the passage of time, and the inevitable march of the inevitable. Vivid, resonant, melancholic, and beautiful, Janice Hallett.

'A stunning, ingenious, truly immersive mystery. The Turnglass is a thrilling delight. Chris Whitaker

Stuart Turton meets The Magpie Murders in this immersive and unique story for fans of clever crime fiction.

Set in 1880s England, on the bleak island of Ray, off the Essex coast, an idealistic young doctor, Simeon Lee, is called from London to treat his cousin, Parson Oliver Hawes, who is dying. Parson Hawes, who lives in the only house on the island—Turnglass House—believes he is being poisoned. And he points the finger at his sister-in-law, Florence. Florence, who was declared insane after killing Olivers brother in a jealous rage, is now kept in a glass-walled apartment in Olivers library. And the secret to how she came to be there is found in Olivers tête-bêche journal, where one side tells a very different story from the other.

Fast forward to 1930s California. Celebrated author Oliver Tooke, the son of the state governor, is found dead. The police are baffled, as there seems to be no obvious motive for the murder. But as they delve deeper into the case, they discover a web of secrets and lies that spans decades. The investigation takes them from the glamorous world of Hollywood to the dark underbelly of the city, where they encounter a cast of characters, including a mysterious woman named Lily, who may hold the key to unlocking the mystery.

The Turnglass is a masterfully crafted tale that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and atmospheric setting, it is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and mystery enthusiasts alike. Prepare to be transported to a world of intrigue and suspense as you unravel the secrets of the Turnglass and discover the truth behind the murder that has shaken the foundations of a prestigious literary family.

Weight: 678g
Dimension: 162 x 243 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398514492