Just So Stories

Allen & Unwin

June 2023

ISBN:9781761068010

Publisher:A&U Children’s

Imprint:A & U Children

RRP: $24.99

Of course, we know we are blessed in this country to have so many superlative creators of children’s literature, but how lucky are we when an internationally acclaimed author chooses our great nation as their home – and then continues with her blockbuster writing?

Ellie Marney has lived around the world and delved into some of the murkiest locations in her quest for authenticity in her crime fiction. She wowed audiences with None Shall Sleep, and now continues the narrative with main characters, Emma Lewis and Travis Bell, in a new case which will keep readers not only on the edge of their seats, but peering over their shoulders – just in case.

A new wave of serial killings convinces the FBI that a copycat killer is at work and, most especially, that Emma is the actual target. Although she has returned to college and is seeking to decompress from the tension and danger of being a junior agent, Emma is once again drawn into the cat-and-mouse game.

It’s been three months since Simon Gutmunsson was institutionalised in St Elizabeth’s Hospital for the Criminally Insane, now his eccentric twin sister Kristin is working closely with Travis and Emma, refusing to be put into protective custody, returns to Simon to try to piece together a profile of this new and dangerous killer.

The almost hypnotic influence Simon has on her, is just one of the dangers for Emma in this new case. Readers will flinch at unexpected twists and turns, and hold their breath as the good guys navigate their way through the horrifying and bloody morass that is their investigation. Be assured you might need your reserves of intestinal fortitude to cope, but if psychological thrillers are your thing, you will be in your element.

It is easy to see why Ellie’s work has not only been top of best-seller lists, but also picked up for television. This is exactly the genre that many viewers want – The Kid would certainly be on that list! The characterisations are superb and as readers, we connect with these characters, even if we don’t actually approve of them or their actions. They are, without doubt. authentically created and voiced.

Released today and, no doubt, eagerly anticipated by a vast fan base, this will be a highly sought after read in your collection but, I caution, only for you senior students, due to violence and liberal profanity. Highly recommended for staunch readers of 16 plus.