‘A long, oily blackness punctuated by quick, vivid dreams . . . They were all just dreams. She couldn’t possibly see these things, could she? Her eyes were closed. And if they really happened, then she would have screamed out from the pain, wouldn’t she?’ On a balmy June night, Kirsten, a young university student, strolls home through a silent moonlit park. Suddenly her tranquil mood is shattered as she is viciously attacked. When she awakes in hospital, she has no recollection of that brutal night. But then, slowly and painfully, details reveal themselves – dreams of two figures, one white and one black, hovering over her, wisps of a strange and haunting song; the unfamiliar texture of a rough and deadly hand . . . In another part of England, Martha Browne arrives in Whitby, posing as an author doing research for a book. But her research is of a particularly macabre variety. Who is she hunting with such deadly determination? And why?
Delve into the chilling world of Peter Robinson's *Caedmon's Song*, a gripping mystery thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. This First Edition hardcover, published by Macmillan in 2003, is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, suspense, and strong female leads. The story opens with a brutal attack that leaves Kirsten, a young university student, struggling to piece together the fragmented memories of a horrific night. Haunted by unsettling dreams and sensory impressions the stark contrast of "one white and one black" figure, the eerie melody of an unfamiliar song, and the chilling feel of a rough hand she embarks on a harrowing journey to uncover the truth. Is she merely suffering from post-traumatic stress, or are these visions a glimpse into something far more sinister? Meanwhile, miles away in the atmospheric coastal town of Whitby, Martha Browne arrives under the guise of a writer seeking inspiration. But her true purpose is far more sinister than literary research. Driven by a relentless determination, she's hunting someone or something. What dark secret connects Martha's mission to Kirsten's attack? And what macabre path has led her to this windswept corner of England? Robinson masterfully weaves together these two seemingly disparate narratives, creating a web of suspense that tightens with each chapter. Known for his meticulous plotting and richly drawn characters, Robinson delivers a story that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. *Caedmon's Song* explores themes of trauma, memory, justice, and the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life. *Caedmon's Song* is more than just a thriller; it's a psychological exploration of fear, resilience, and the lengths to which people will go to protect themselves and those they love. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, prompting you to question the nature of reality and the power of the human mind. With its atmospheric setting, intricate plot, and unforgettable characters, *Caedmon's Song* is a standout addition to Peter Robinson's acclaimed body of work and a compelling read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery. The "Women Sleuths" thread adds an additional layer of intrigue, as you try to unravel the mystery alongside the strong female characters. Don't miss out on experiencing this captivating tale of suspense and intrigue.