I had no idea that the publishing world could be so funny--and so dangerous. A Murder of Magpies reminds me of the comic crime novels of Donald E. Westlake, with its own humorous, deadly edge. Judith Flanders has created one of the most engaging main characters I've encountered in quite a while. Indeed, even the minor characters are memorable. I chuckled while I feared for their safety, and hope to meet them in another novel. David Morrell, bestselling author of Murder as a Fine Art 'Mordantly funny' Philip Kerr 'This witty crime caper [ - ] is a delight from first page to last' Natasha Cooper 'There's some deep social satire in [Samantha Clair's] investigation into the disappearance of a gossip columnist. And yes, lots of laughs' Cleveland Plain Dealer 'Carefully mixed up and served with a lot of humour, as Sam has no illusions about her own - or any other - business. Here's hoping Flanders has more to say and will be back with another book' San Jose Muercury News 'A sophisticated and smart mystery... the clever protagonist and entertaining workplace drama will entice readers to come back again for the next installment' RT Book Reviews 'Flanders applies what she learned about the development of the mystery genre in the Victorian era to a smart, action-packed thriller set in modern-day London. Flanders has applied skillful writing to her knowledge of the London publishing scene, serving up an enjoyable, intricate page-turner' Booklist 'Pitch-perfect... Make sure you catch it' Books and Entertainment UK blog 'A rollercoaster plot offers gasps and laughs in equal measure'. DAILY MAIL