THE CHIDHAM CREEK MURDERS

A BRAND-NEW CRIME THRILLER FROM A BESTSELLING AUTHOR, SET ON THE SOUTH COAST OF ENGLAND.

A secretive celebrant. A multimillionaire heir. A staged murder. 

The house smells of death. Not rotting flesh, but a mustiness that wraps itself around Detective Andy Horton as he enters. He makes his way to the living room and rapidly takes in the scene. 

Juliette Croft, a professional celebrant, is dead in her living room, sprawled on an orange velvet sofa with empty bottles of champagne and medicine neatly arranged on the coffee table beside her. 

Horton is immediately suspicious — it’s all too neat and tidy. The champagne glasses are dry, and there’s no smell of alcohol on the body. 

When Horton tries to notify Juliette’s next of kin, he discovers the sole beneficiary of her will is one Rodney Pierce, a multimillionaire businessman. 

But Rodney says he’s never heard of Juliette, and it’s not like he needs the money. 

Then another body is discovered on the shores of Chidham Creek and the case takes a shocking turn . . . 

An absolutely gripping detective mystery perfect for fans of Ann Cleeves, Joy Ellis, Rachel McLean, Helen H. Durrant, Angela Marsons, Elly Griffiths, Karin Slaughter, Matt Brolly and Simon McCleave. 

READERS LOVE THE SOLENT MURDER MYSTERIES: 

‘A great read for mystery lovers with plenty to keep you guessing until the last moment.’ Crime Book Club 

‘The Harley Davidson-riding, boat-dwelling Horton is a fascinating man to get to know, and his thoughtful approach to detection is a pleasure to read.” Publishers Weekly 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Cleverly plotted with lots of twists and turns. Can’t turn the pages fast enough. For anyone who enjoys a gripping crime novel these are a must.’ Darren C. 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Once you get to know Andy Horton you’ll be sure to name him as one of your favourite police characters in crime fiction.’ James C. 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Love all of Pauline Rowson’s books. If you like a good twist, read this, you won't be able to put it down!” Amazon customer 

THE DETECTIVE 

DI Andy Horton’s mum walked out on him when he was a child and he grew up in a children's home. Now he lives on board his yacht in Southsea Marina. He rides a Harley-Davidson and never wears a suit or tie — unless it’s to go to court. He’s an instinctive copper and a man of contrasts, which often lands him in trouble with his bosses. He has a desperate need to belong, and yet is always just on the outside. Self-contained, afraid to show his feelings, but he’s a risk-taker that seeks justice.

THE SETTING 

Portsmouth boasts a vibrant waterfront, a diverse multicultural population, an international port, a historic dockyard, and is home of the Royal Navy. Portsmouth Harbour is one of the busiest in the world — and one of the best places to hide a body, it seems. Set against the backdrop of the sea, the Solent area of Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight is every detective’s worst nightmare. The sea is ever-changing and often the best clues get swept away by the tide.