With his 3rd novel Christopher Bowden, once again, has created an intriguing, page-turning, literary mystery with a beautifully drawn cast of characters. A common theme in his writing involves 'things found that lead the finders on searches with unexpected outcomes' , so you could see his three books to date, The Blue Book, The Yellow Room and The Red House as a trio rather than a series but all worth a second look and each one can just as easily be read as standalone novels so for those of you new to his writing go for whichever title pulls you the most.  His novels make for excellent reading group discussion and in addition to being one of our reading list writers, both Julian Fellowes and actor Derek Jacobi are fans of his work as well.

Synopsis

Her face was thinner than it used to be, tauter somehow, almost gaunt, and the eyes seemed troubled. The hair, once long and flowing, was cut roughly short. Almost hacked, he thought. Yet it was surely her...

When Colin Mallory sees a sketch of a young actress he once knew on display in the local market, memories of their past together are brought back sharply to the surface. Alarmed by her distressed appearance, Colin is propelled on a search that draws him into the nightmare world of 'the group' and the sinister influence that threatens to control him too.

This is an engrossing story of artifice and hidden secrets, rich with theatrical detail and a cast of compelling characters.

Reviews

"Very entertaining, cleverly constructed and expertly paced. I thoroughly enjoyed it."
Sir Derek Jacobi

Praise for The Yellow Room:

"…a rare glimpse into our recent history, far too rarely plundered by modern novelists, and deftly done." Andrew Marr

“A novel as intriguing as the house at its heart. I loved it." Julian Fellowes

About the Author

Christopher Bowden lives in south London. His first novel, The Blue Book, was published in 2007. More books by this author Author 'Like for Like' recommendation