‘The plot blends mystery with comedy to great effect’– Daily Mail
‘A profound love of books and authors underpins this sprightly mystery’ – Publishers Weekly
‘A stylish whodunnit blended with an affectionate send-up of the world of books’ Sunday Mirror

‘Another winner for Laurain’ – European Literature Network

When the manuscript of a debut crime novel arrives at a Parisian publishing house, everyone in the readers’ room is convinced it’s something special. And the committee for France’s highest literary honour, the Prix Goncourt, agrees.

But when the shortlist is announced, there’s a problem for editor Violaine Lepage: she has no idea of the author’s identity. As the police begin to investigate a series of murders strangely reminiscent of those recounted in the book, Violaine is not the only one looking for answers. And, suffering memory blanks following an aeroplane accident, she’s beginning to wonder what role she might play in the story …

Antoine Laurain, bestselling author of The Red Notebook, combines intrigue and charm in this dazzling novel of mystery, love and the power of books.

Polly Mackintosh