Blessings in a Bag

Described as having "perfected the psychological thriller" (Bookseller), Sophie Hannah deserves plenty of praise for Kind Of Cruel, a chilling novel which takes fear and suspense to a whole new level. When Amber Hewerdine consults a hypnotherapist as a last resort, she doesn't expect that anything much will change. She doesn't expect it to help with her chronic insomnia ... or to hear herself, under hypnosis, saying words that mean nothing to her: "Kind, cruel, kind of cruel". Words she has seen somewhere before, if only she could remember where ...She also doesn't expect to be arrested two hours later in connection with the brutal murder of Katharine Allen, a woman she's never heard of ...

Recommendation: "The Bed I Made" is a page-turner that keeps you on the edge with its thrilling plot and the alluring but dangerous relationship between the main characters. Lucie Whitehouse's writing style is captivating and the wintry Isle of Wight setting adds a chilling atmosphere. If you are looking for a suspenseful read with a psychological twist, this is the book for you.

"The Birthday" is a great read for those who enjoy family dramas filled with secrets and surprises. The unique selling point of this book is the way the author delves deep into the complex relationships between family members and the impact their hidden secrets have on one another. Readers will appreciate the detailed characterization and the gripping plot that builds up to an unexpected twist.

On an icy winter weekend, seven friends celebrate New Year's Eve at Stoneborough, a grand manor in the English countryside. They've been brought together by Lucas Heathfield, a young man who recently inherited the property after the tragic death of his uncle Patrick. Though still raw from the loss of his last family member, Lucas welcomes this tight-knit group of friends to the estate he hopes will become their home away from home-an escape from London where they can all relax and rekindle the revelry of their college days.Lucas's best friend, Joanna, finds herself oddly affected by the cavernous manse, with its lavish mythological ceiling mural and sprawling grounds, and awakened to a growing bond with Lucas. Much to her surprise, he reveals that he's loved her for years. But as they begin to find their way from friendship to romance, Joanna can't shake the feeling that the house is having its own effect on them.Back in London, Joanna is stunned when Lucas announces that he and their impetuous friend Danny are moving into Stoneborough full-time. Her concern seems justified as Lucas, once ensconced, becomes completely ensnared in the turbulent past that seems to haunt the house - a past that is captured in old movie reels featuring Lucas's now-dead his charismatic uncle Patrick, his lovely mother, Claire, and his golden-boy father, Justin.Over one decadent, dramatic year, as the friends frequently gather at the shadowed residence, secrets slide out and sexual tensions escalate, shattering friendships and forever changing lives. And all the while, the house cradles a devastating secret.By turns taut and sensual, mesmerizing and disturbing, The House at Midnight is a gripping psychological novel that pulls the reader into the thrall of its ominous atmosphere. Newcomer Lucie Whitehouse has written a tense and captivating story that will linger long after the final, shocking pages.

The Secrets of St Dee is a perfect read for mystery lovers who are fans of small-town stories. The book's unique selling point is its detailed and well-executed mystery, delving into the enigmatic aspects of the abandoned village of St Dee. It's a compelling and thrilling read, exploring the history of the village and the characters' pasts. The book also touches upon themes such as familial relationships, the impact of the past on the present, and the haunting memories of war. Readers who enjoy stories that leave a lasting impact and leave them pensive and contemplative will highly appreciate this book.