Liar Liar

Starred review from April 25, 2016
British author Arlidge’s fourth novel featuring Southampton Det. Insp. Helen Grace (after The Doll’s House) is so good that it will send new readers scrambling to catch up with the earlier books in the series. On one night, carefully planned multiple acts of arson take lives in a house fire and destroy two business properties. Grace and her team dig for clues and motives, but a second night brings three more fires, more victims, and more pressure. Adding to the investigation’s difficulties are Grace’s relationships with Det. Supt. Jonathan Gardam, a Londoner new to the city, and Emilia Garanita, an ambitious reporter. A personal crisis for a key ally, Det. Constable Charlene Brooks, adds further complications. Arlidge’s minor characters are movingly real, and the story’s twists are surprising and convincing. Helen, who bears both physical and emotional scars, emerges as one of crime fiction’s most compelling detectives. Agent: Hellie Ogden, Janklow & Nesbit.