Derby Book Festival – Autumn 2024

“Agatha Christie for the 21st century” The Times

Modern queen of crime writing and best-selling author of smash-hits The Appeal and The Twyford Code, Janice Hallett, discusses her genre-busting new crime novel. The Examiner paints a gripping picture of an art course blighted by jealousy and violence among six mature students.

The students of Royal Hastings University’s new art course have been trouble from day one. From acclaimed artist Alyson who seems oddly overqualified, to hapless Patrick who can barely operate design software, and city boy Cameron who blusters his way through assignments. Not to mention Jem, who’s a gifted young sculptor… but cross her at your peril.

The year-long course is blighted by students setting fire to one another’s artwork, a rumoured extra-marital affair and a disastrous road trip. But finally they are given their last assignment: to build an art installation for a local manufacturer. With six students who have nothing in common except their clashing personal agendas, what could possibly go wrong?

The answer is: murder. When the external examiner arrives to assess the students’ coursework, he becomes convinced that a student was killed on the course and that the others covered it up. But is he right? Only a close examination of the evidence will reveal the truth. Your time starts now …

Janice Hallett will be in conversation with Festival Trustee, Sue Wall.