Faith, Love & Murder

by Nick Card

A tasteful murder pours a cocktail of secrets...

On Friday 22nd September 2023, Marianne’s simple pleasure of a daily Amonti Sherry before dinner is tragically her last. Many have a motive but who would go as far as to take her life?

DC Fran Jacobs is ridden with self-doubt, intimidated and exasperated by her bullying superior; grappling with her own demons and dilemmas from religion to romance, but this only sharpens her instincts.

Fran’s intuition is at odds with the methodical thinking of her colleagues, but she is determined to unweave the web of lies, and there’s more to it than she could ever have imagined…

290 pages, Paperback

Published November 6, 2023

Reviews

[Ruth Wheeler]

I have just finished this debut novel by playwright Nick Card and I was really impressed with his prose. It’s an immersive story which takes the reader through the book through the protagonist’s eyes; her doubts, her fears and her insecurities. Fran questions her faith, her love life and the actions of the people around her, which makes her a great detective. The plot, a murder mystery set in a fictional region of southern England, keeps the reader guessing. I’m looking forward to seeing more from this author and it will be fun to watch Fran’s character develop as she becomes more confident in her abilities as a detective.

[Alison Cairns]

A good story, if a bit clunky. Detective Constable Fran Jacobs has excellent policing skills and considerable doubts both in her professional and private lives. A regular churchgoer, she is doubting her faith. Being undermined by her senior officer is affecting her mental health at work. Investigating a murder, Fran is increasingly frustrated when her instincts are ignored - it's quite shocking when we find out why. I enjoyed Fran's friendship with elderly neighbour Harry and her certainty when she'd decided what to do. Thanks to the author for sending me a copy.

[Ruth Matheson]

A good solid debut novel which had lots of elements throughout making the reader guessing - and I didn't work out the guilty party until the end!! My only gripe which is a personal one , is that the lead character of Fran, had her name used a wee bit too often at times but other than that I enjoyed reading this story.

Thanks to the author for a copy of his book to review.

[Phil Card]

A brilliant read which I thoroughly enjoyed. Lots of twists, engaging characters and a plot that builds beautifully into a real page turner. A fantastic debut novel that begs the question of will there be a follow up? :)

[Irene Clipsom]

This was a book that was difficult to put down once you start the book. The story line was easy to follow as it is well presented. Hoping for more from the author Nick Card, including a follow on novel.
Enjoyed very much.

[Liam Saunders]

Fantastic novel. I particularly enjoyed the descriptive vocabulary and how to setting and characters became so vivid in my imagination. The plot was brilliant. I very much recommend!

Nick, write more!

[Mrs J]

Excellent murder with engaging DC Fran. It’s a good satisfying read with plenty to keep the reader interested. Highly recommended.