A tenacious young detective with scars both physical and emotional, Beth Young will stop at nothing in her fight for justice for the innocent. Death in the Lakes is the first book in the series. Set in the Lake District, it is perfect for fans of Joy Ellis, LJ Ross, and Peter James.

Detective Beth Young has just joined the Cumbrian major crimes team when a body is found posed in a ritualistic manner - arms spread and graceful wings attached - at a crumbling castle in the hills of the Lake District.

The entire police force is on red alert. But Beth begins to feel she’s the only one who can follow the disturbing clues left by the twisted killer. Because she doesn’t think like everyone else. To Beth, crimes are puzzles she can solve. Even if real life is a little harder.

As more bodies are discovered in derelict stately homes across the Lake District, Beth knows she’s in a race against time.

But the killer is looking for another victim to add to his collection… Will Beth be able to save her? Or will he get there first?

Readers are loving Death in the Lakes

‘I was absolutely gripped… A sophisticated and gripping read that will send your heart racing. This is an author who knows exactly what a crime fan expects from a book and he delivers every time. A thrilling and twisted read.’ By the Letter Book Reviews, 5 stars

‘Ohh I really enjoyed this book so much, the plot was exceptionally good, very gruesome and totally addictive.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘Every now and again something stunning comes along, and now is that time… Not only is the story original, and compelling, but the main character is one of the best fictional Police Detectives I’ve had the pleasure to be introduced to… A great book, just stunning.’ Nigel Adams Bookworm, 5 stars

‘Graham Smith is excellent at creating characters which lead the reader to make assumptions about them before he picks away and slowly reveals what lies… A great start to what promises to be an exciting new series.’ Chapter in my Life

‘Packed a punch of thrills and chills… [A] remarkable read that captures the mind in a vice grip and refuses to let it go.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘[It] thunders towards a thrilling climax.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘Twisted and gruesome. And brilliant… Hugely atmospheric… The action is full on, and the story is full of tension - my nerves were shredded!’ Suze Reviews

‘Compulsive, atmospheric and relentlessly gripping!’ Craig Russell
‘Oh my, what a chillingly disturbing first case… Just when you think you may have it figured out… You don’t… If you like a good police procedural serial killer mystery…. this is the one for you.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘A very, very cleverly written novel which grows in intensity… A psychologically intelligent, gripping and complex start to a brand-new series.’ The Writing Garnet