The Seagull (Vera Stanhope) - Softcover

Praise for The Seagull:

"Engrossing...This nuanced, adroitly paced tale shoul satisfy both series fans and new readers."―Publishers Weekly

"Cleeves [has an] unmistakeable talent for combining deft plotting, a moody atmosphere and totally believable dialogue...a sure-fire formula for literary success. The eighth in a series that has already won the hearts of countless readers and a television audience to boot, The Seagull only adds to the lustre of this accomplished writer."―Reviewing the Evidence

"Stanhope will become the barmy-but-brilliant auntie we all wish we had."―Booklist

"Readers will enjoy Vera’s relentless quest for the truth in this astutely observed, atmospheric crime novel."―Express

Praise for the Vera Stanhope series:

"Fans of the Vera Stanhope novels already available in the U.S., as well as the TV series Vera, will welcome Cleeves’s intricate series opener. The Columbo-esque Vera, who hides a fierce intelligence and razor sharp instincts under garish clothing, uses every tool at her disposal to solve the crime."―Publishers Weekly on The Crow Trap

This first installment in Cleeves’ Vera Stanhope series, now published in the U.S. for the first time, offers abundant evidence why the police-detective heroine, physically unattractive but extremely clever, and her meticulously plotted adventures (The Moth Catcher, 2016, etc.) have made such a splash in bookstores and in the TV series Vera.”―Kirkus Reviews on The Crow Trap

"It would be foolish to discount Vera because she doesn't dress smartly--she can outfox even the wiliest of criminals, while wearing whatever she pleases, and readers will delight in getting the chance to see how such a quirky character evolved."―Library Journal on The Crow Trap

“Winning. It is Stanhope herself―a homely, overweight spinster with blotchy skin, a fondness for alcohol, and a toxic personality―who, using intuition and subtle intimidation, brings all the disorganization to an illogical but satisfying conclusion.”―Publishers Weekly on Silent Voices

“Readers devoted to Cleeves’ tales of Jimmy Perez (Blue Lightning, 2010, etc.) will want to give Vera a try.”―Kirkus Reviews on Silent Voices

“Cleeves expertly draws Vera’s complex relations with her fellow detectives as well as the hidden springs of tension in the circle affected by the crime, touching on class relations, the ennui of middle age, and the deceits, frailties, and tenderness of long marriage.”―Publishers Weekly on The Moth Catcher

“Characteristically well plotted, with plenty of complex characters to enjoy.”―Kirkus Reviews on The Moth Catcher

“From the inside, Vera is somewhat self-hating, but she also possesses an endearing “what the hell” attitude. It’s a delight to watch her exceed people’s expectations and to watch as the tiny details she notices add up to the big revelation.”―Booklist on The Moth Catcher

“Even though you may wish you could prod Cleeves (Dead Water, 2014, etc.) to pick up the leisurely pace, the complexities of the people and plot make the wait worthwhile.”―Kirkus Reviews on Harbour Street

“Cleeves offers up evocative settings and flawed characters with depth, making her mysteries wonderfully addictive. Her latest is no exception.”―Library Journal (starred) on Harbour Street

Praise for the Shetland Island series:

“Nothing short of riveting." ―Louise Penny

"Creates a dark enough mood to keep you straining to see what will come to light next.―People

"Gripping from start to finish."―Booklist

"In true Christie fashion, Cleeves once more pulls the wool over our eyes with cunning and conviction." ―Colin Dexter

"Chilling...enough to freeze the blood." ―Marilyn Stasio, The New York Times Book Review

"Cleeve's taut, atmospheric thriller will keep readers guessing until the last page....Chilling."―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"Cleeves once again proves herself a master of mystery, with fine writing, a broodingly atmospheric setting, a twist-filled plot, and a shocker of an ending."―Booklist

"Intricate and engrossing...offers readers the pleasures of the traditional locked room/isolated island mystery." ―The Washington Post Book World