Dark House: An absolutely gripping serial killer thriller (Detective Lucy Harwin) (Volume 1) / Helen Phifer

A shadowy figure in the dark was dragging something heavy behind them. Lizzy pulled the covers over her head, then realised what was being dragged. She rammed a fist into her mouth to stop herself from screaming...

For years, the Moore Asylum housed the forgotten children of Brooklyn Bay. But now, a man is found brutally murdered in the derelict building, strapped to a steel trolley, launching a terrifying investigation for Detective Lucy Harwin.

Lucy quickly discovers the victim was once a Moore Asylum doctor, and when a woman also linked to the home is found murdered on her doorstep, Lucy knows she must dig into its history. What dark secrets lie within the asylum’s walls – what was the scandal leading to its closure thirty years ago?

With her own demons to fight, Lucy starts to uncover the shocking tale of the Moore Asylum children, and begins to wonder: who will be the next victim?

Just as Lucy thinks she’s closing in, a disturbing clue makes her suspect the killer is watching her every move. Can she catch this twisted individual before another life is lost, or will they get to her first?

A terrifying serial killer thriller that will chill readers of MJ Arlidge, Angela Marsons and Rachel Abbott to the bone. 

Previously published as The Lost Children

Praise for Dark House:

‘I really enjoyed this book, the writing is engaging, honest and believable…I devoured it over 2 evenings and I stayed up until WAY past my bedtime on the first night because I didn't want to put it down!’Urban Sapphire

‘What a book! I really enjoyed reading this one…What better place to set a chiller thriller than an old asylum full of atmosphere and old ghosts? If only the walls could tell stories and in this case, they do.’ Mrs Bloggs Books

‘There are many different and unusual twists and turns throughout the story that keeps the reader totally gripped…Well worth the 5 stars.’ All Things Books

‘A mesmerising story… If you like LJ Ross, Mark Billingham, and Jo Nesbo, you’ll love this.’ Avid Reviewer

‘This crime thriller stands out from many of the others on the shelves today…I loved the story. I loved the characters. I loved the setting. I loved the fact that it was written by somebody who works in the police, so all of the phrases and techniques are current and accurate’ Nigel Adams’ Book Worm

‘The character is believable and the storyline is dynamite. I’m very much looking forward to the next instalment.’ For the Love of Books

‘The story was definitely gripping and I ended the book needing more! I can’t wait to read what is Lucy up to next. I would definitely recommend this book if you like police series.’ Bookneeders

‘The book was wonderfully paced, the characters are introduced as the plot moves along so you’re straight into the action from the beginning… Would I recommend it? Absolutely yes.’ Sarah Withers Blog

‘I loved this book - I can’t wait for the next one in the series. I enjoyed the story, I loved the characters, it was interesting and it kept me engaged all the way through the book. I couldn't put it down.’Bonnie’s Book Talk