Fair Play: 'this genre-splicing debut is a treat' Paul Murray

‘Sally Rooney meets The Secret History’ - The Sunday Times

‘Dazzling' - Colin Walsh, author of Kala ‘Brilliant’ - The Times ‘Ingenious’ - The Telegraph ‘Terrific’ - The New York Times ‘Heartbreaking’ - The Guardian

THE HEART IS A LOCKED ROOM

Abigail’s brother Benjamin is dead, and her world has literally been split in two. In one reality Abigail finds herself back at work, navigating the frustrations of well-wishers and busybodies, desperately wondering why her brother has gone. In the other an eminent detective arrives determined to find Benjamin’s killer among his circle of close friends.

Is this a murder mystery or something more? What secrets do Benjamin’s friends hold? And can Abigail, immersed in her grief, find out the truth of her beloved brother’s life.

‘A treat . . . Takes on the biggest questions of life and death’ - PAUL MURRAY, author of THE BEE STING

© 2025 Picador (Audiobook): 9781035036172

Release date

Audiobook: 3 April 2025