MURDER IN A COTTAGE by Sadie Norman
Meet Detective Anna McArthur. Back at work after being stabbed in the line of duty. And solving serious crimes in West Norfolk.
Everyone says the victim was loved. Someone’s lying.
When church volunteer Yvonne Garrington is found dead in her cottage kitchen, her throat slashed and the scene awash with blood, DC Anna McArthur is called in to investigate. Still rebuilding her career after injury and scandal, Anna knows this is a chance to prove herself. But the deeper she digs into Yvonne’s quiet life, the more contradictions she uncovers.
Yvonne’s neighbours are polite. The parish is welcoming. The church choir even goes on performing. But someone in this picture-perfect town is hiding something dark — and when an anonymous tip places Yvonne’s estranged ex-husband at the scene, Anna realises the truth may lie closer to home than anyone wants to admit.
As secrets surface and loyalties fracture, Anna must push past gossip, grief, and her own doubts to catch a killer who won’t hesitate to silence anyone who gets in their way.
Perfect for readers of LJ Ross, Faith Martin, and Jane Adams.
Please note this book was originally published as Squealer
Detective Profile
DC Anna McArthur is newly reinstated on Norfolk’s Serious Crimes team and desperate to shake her old nickname — “Crazy McArthur.” She’s tough, intuitive, and determined to prove her worth. As she balances a fragile mental recovery and a fraught romantic connection to her boss, Anna knows that solving this case isn’t just about justice — it’s about survival.
Setting
A quiet, picturesque Norfolk town with winding streets, a nosy parish, and a church that sees everything. But beneath the surface of this so-called community lies jealousy, judgment, and long-held secrets waiting to explode.
⭐ 5-Star Reader Reviews for the Series
★★★★★ “Superb plot, characters. I couldn't put this book down.” – Kindle Customer
★★★★★ “Was interesting to read... It's an easy read.” – Jackie
★★★★★ “I was gripped from the minute I started reading.” – Bubbles
★★★★★ “Great story all set in the Kings Lynn area.” – Barbara Mitchell
★★★★★ “Great read — I would definitely recommend buying this book.” – Luke Morgan