The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou: The dark and addictive 2023 BBC Between the Covers Book Club pick that's inspired by a true crime case

Zina Pavlou, a Cypriot grandmother, is accused of the murder of her daughter-in-law in 1950s London. She cannot speak for herself, but her translator, Eva Georgiou, becomes obsessed with the case and her bond with the accused murderer deepens. The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou is a compelling historical crime novel set in the Greek diaspora of 1950s London, inspired by a true story. It has been selected for the BBC 2 Between the Covers Book Club 2023 and has received positive reviews from critics, who praise its tension, moving story, and morally complex characters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Selected for BBC 2 Between the Covers Book Club 2023, "The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou" is a tense, moving, and morally complex novel that tells the story of a Cypriot grandmother, Zina Pavlou, who is accused of the brutal murder of her daughter-in-law in 1950s London. The book is inspired by a true story and has received praise from critics, including Rachel Rhys, who called it "impressive" and worthy of Sarah Waters. The Times praised the book's "gripping" and "compelling" story, while the Guardian described it as a "tragic and compelling tale." The novel is set in the Greek diaspora of 1950s London and follows the story of Zina Pavlou, a voiceless immigrant woman who works as a Greek interpreter for the Met. As she works on the case, she becomes obsessed with the accused murderer and develops a bond with him. However, Zina cannot speak for herself and cannot clear her own name. The book is perfect for fans of Erin Kelly, Sara Collins, and Jessie Burton and has been described as "utterly compelling" by Clare Mackintosh. Eleni Kyriacou has drawn a rich cast of characters, and the novel is immersive, gripping, and authentic. It is a chilling and gripping read that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 197 x 130 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781837930364