The House of Fame (A Nick Belsey Novel)

Dive into the dark heart of celebrity obsession and criminal intrigue with Oliver Harris's *The House of Fame*, the latest gripping installment in the acclaimed Nick Belsey series. Published by Abacus in 2019, this paperback edition delivers 352 pages of relentlessly paced London noir that will leave you breathless. Nick Belsey, the disgraced Hampstead CID officer with a knack for finding trouble, is back and this time, he's squatting in a derelict police station, a far cry from the glamorous world he's about to be thrust into. On the verge of a career implosion and facing suspension, Belsey's life takes an unexpected turn when a desperate woman seeks his help to find her missing son. This simple plea unravels a complex web of secrets, leading him directly into the orbit of Amber Knight, a pop star and tabloid sensation whose fame is as dazzling as it is dangerous. Harris masterfully contrasts the glittering faade of celebrity life with the gritty realities of London's underbelly. As Belsey navigates the treacherous landscape of Primrose Hill mansions and forgotten corners of the city, he uncovers a twisted crime spree fueled by obsession and desperation. A body is found, and Belsey finds himself dangerously entangled in a world where image is everything and the truth is a commodity. *The House of Fame* isn't just a thrilling crime novel; it's a sharp commentary on contemporary culture, exploring the dark side of fame and the lengths people will go to protect their carefully constructed illusions. Oliver Harris's writing is characterized by its visceral prose, complex characters, and intricate plotting, earning him comparisons to masters of the genre like Ian Rankin. Beyond the gripping plot, Harris's strength lies in his ability to create a palpable sense of place. London becomes a character itself, its vibrant energy and hidden darkness permeating every page. Readers are transported to the heart of the city, experiencing its beauty and brutality alongside Belsey. *The House of Fame* is a darkly comic and fast-paced ride into the depths of celebrity culture, and a compelling investigation of what it really means to be famous. Don't miss out on this electrifying thriller praised by critics and readers alike. The *Sunday Times* hails Harris's "terrific sense of place" and the plot's "chilling and totally unexpected direction," while the *Guardian* applauds his "style and authority." *The Times* describes the novel as "gripping" and praises Harris's "punchy and perceptive" writing. If you enjoy crime fiction with complex characters, a strong sense of place, and a plot that will keep you guessing until the very end, *The House of Fame* is a must-read. Get your copy today and prepare to be captivated by Oliver Harris's compelling storytelling. Perfect for fans of Mark Billingham, Peter James, and Robert Galbraith.