It's Christmas and death is at the door. DCI Vera Stanhope returns in "The Darkest Evening," the ninth novel in Ann Cleeves' popular crime series. The darkest nights can hide the deadliest secrets.

As she drives home in a snowstorm, Vera Stanhope has only one thought: to get there quickly. However, with the snowfall being heavy, she loses her bearings and discovers an abandoned car on the road. Assuming the driver has sought shelter, she is shocked to find a small toddler strapped in the back seat. Fearing it might freeze, she takes the child and proceeds, reaching Brockburn, an old manor house she recognizes as the home where her father, Hector, grew up.

Inside Brockburn, a party is in full swing with music and laughter heralding the coming Christmas. But outside in the snow, a young woman lies dead, and Vera has a new case. She could be the child's mother, and if so, what happened to her?

'A thoroughly gripping thriller' – Mail on Sunday

Pages: 416, Year of Publication: 2023, Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm