Now or Not at All: When time runs out, decisions won't wait (Mike Stanhope Mysteries)

Complex mystery, compelling characters, relentless pace

Is Kirsty Thornhill alive or dead? Did she choose to disappear three years ago, and if so, why? Or was she abducted and murdered? Journalist Mike Stanhope turns reluctant detective when he’s asked to find out what happened to her – but the job proves far more challenging than he anticipated.

The pressure mounts when he takes on a writing job in parallel with the investigation. Soon he’s beating a breathless trail round the north of England, juggling the two tasks but fearing he’ll fail at both.

Gradually he builds up a picture of Kirsty – a strong-willed woman with equal ability to attract and annoy – and despite his resolve to remain objective, he becomes immersed in the pursuit. His girlfriend Sam tries to help, but worries that for Mike the case is becoming an obsession.

This is mystery drama at its most compelling: intricate plotting, a succession of unexpected developments, a pervading sense of urgency, and the gradual emergence of something bigger than anyone imagined. Add to that a set of likeable central characters, a vivid feel for place, and the author’s crystal-clear prose, and you have an irresistible mix.

Now or Not at All works as a satisfying stand-alone novel, but also picks up the ongoing story of Mike Stanhope’s struggle to find order in his trouble-prone life.

Plaudits for the Mike Stanhope Mysteries series:

“Very well written, with well delineated characters and much subtlety of insight …”

“Once you are into it, you will find it hard to put it down …”

“Rowlands’ plots are unique, and as detailed and intricate as you will find anywhere …”

“It kept me reading when I really needed to do other things. But the twists and turns of the plot locked me in …”

“The characters are multi-faceted, which gives the story real depth …”

“Couldn’t put it down. Just like the previous books he has written. Looking forward to the next book. Well done …”

Mike Stanhope Mysteries

1. Alternative Outcome
2. Deficit of Diligence
3. Denial of Credit
4. The Concrete Ceiling
5. Now or Not at All

“The way he manages to bring each little seeming unrelated part together is pure genius.”
– From a review of The Concrete Ceiling