Looking for a classic British murder mystery from a critically acclaimed crime writer? Over one million books read!

Discover Eric Ward, policeman turned lawyer. Enjoy a beautifully told story from a time before smart phones and DNA testing. Full of twists and turns, this will have you gripped from start to finish.

‘A novel of depth and craftsmanship, refreshing in this genre.’ Publishers Weekly

Exploitation. Kidnap. Murder.

Sam Turiff is a loan shark preying on the most vulnerable people in Newcastle.

Eric Ward’s investigation runs into a brick wall trying to bring down the callous criminal. No one will give evidence against him. They’re frightened what he’ll do to them.

Then Kate Geraghty is kidnapped. She’s the granddaughter of local tycoon Liam Geraghty, and there’s a link to the loan shark.

But who carried out the kidnapping and why, since no ransom is demanded?

The case soon turns into a murder investigation and Ward finds himself up against a Northern crime empire.

Can Ward bring down the crime lord before anyone else pays the ultimate price?

This fast-paced mystery set in England in the early 1980s is perfect for fans of Peter James, Ruth Rendell, P.D. James and Peter Robinson.

Please note this book was first published as A Blurred Reality.

THE DETECTIVE

Eric Ward is forced to retire from the police when he discovers he suffers from glaucoma. He qualifies as a solicitor (lawyer) and sets up his practice on the Quayside in Newcastle, where he deals with the seamier side of the law. When he marries a wealthy young woman she attempts to persuade him to settle in Northumberland and work with wealthier clients but he stubbornly refuses to give up his criminal practice in Newcastle. Although she draws him into the world of high finance he still insists on continuing at the Quayside — which causes tensions within his marriage, and leads to fatal consequences.