The Girl in Red
Nora Johnson’s latest thriller in the series - a psychological crime mystery.
Available on Amazon in paperback, ebook, audiobook and Apple Books
BOOK REVIEW
EWN Summer 2026
The Silence of Windermere
In this gripping psychological thriller, Detective Inspector Barbara Forster’s career hangs precariously, forcing her return to Windermere - the hometown she has spent years evading. Officially tasked with investigating a local businesswoman’s disappearance, Barbara is unofficially haunted by an older tragedy: her uncle’s murder-suicide, a case never openly addressed.
The narrative gains momentum when Alice Myers’ relentless true-crime podcast reopens the twenty-year-old cold case of sixteen-year-old Tara Fletcher. As Barbara’s investigation unfolds, Windermere’s lake becomes a potent symbol of memory and concealment, reflecting a town weighted with secrets and collective denial.
What distinguishes the novel is its patient unpicking of Windermere’s postcard calm to reveal corruption and collusion beneath. A hidden circle of powerful men, protected by silence and fear, have buried the truth for decades. The collision of past and present forces Barbara to confront her own childhood ghosts and the cost of challenging an entrenched system.
In the Lake District, the past remains restless - once disturbed, it proves impossible to escape. This is not a conventional whodunit. It is a darker, more unsettling examination of power, complicity and the uncomfortable question of who is allowed to get away with murder.
This is a sophisticated, atmospheric addition to the genre that lingers long after the final page.
WHAT READERS SAY
Twists and Turns
'Nail-biting ... More twists and turns than a boa-constrictor on speed.' Chris Howell, Cardiff, 2026
'Taut, gripping, disturbing: a crime thriller full of twists and turns - it completely takes your breath away.' Tina Frampton, Leeds, 2026
'A taut gritty novel in which Nora Johnson uses every trick in the book to keep the narrative breakneck. Full of twists, brilliantly plotted, great characterization - a fantastic read.' Karen Wheeler, Edinburgh, 2026
Page Turner
‘The characters are compellingly complex, leaving you constantly reassessing their roles in the unfolding drama. Every chapter propels you further into a maze of deception, ensuring you remain hooked until the very last page. The writing is sharp and precise, with a pace that never lets up, creating an atmosphere that's both claustrophobic and fascinating.’ Alex Salter, Birmingham, 2026
‘What a thrilling rollercoaster ride from start to finish! The story pulls you in with its atmospheric setting and keeps you hooked with its jaw-dropping twists. The characters are complex and the pacing is perfect, making it impossible to put down. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the author throws in another curveball. If you love psychological thrillers that keep you guessing until the very last page, this is the book for you. Highly recommend!’ Chris Minford, Weston-super-Mare, 2026
‘This is a thrilling page-turner that kept me hooked from start to finish. The story is packed with suspense, unexpected twists, and a gripping plot that had me constantly guessing what would happen next. The characters are well-developed, and the writing is vivid and atmospheric, making it easy to immerse yourself in the world the author has created. It's dark, intense, and keeps you on edge the entire time. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of mystery and plenty of surprises, this book is a must-read.’ Jill Davis, Llandudno, Wales, 2026
Fast-Paced
Very fast paced, lots of character development, an intricate, gripping murder investigation and a subplot that I read very easily – a truly enjoyable read. Jamie McDermott, Glasgow, 2026
'Great plot, great characters, great action - this is the sort of novel that forces you to read so fast you stumble over the words. Fantastic!' Vicky Renshaw, Portsmouth, 2026
'This novel delights, excites and stimulates - and the only reason you read it so fast is because it's so very, very good!' Sam Brady, Dublin, 2026
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Nora Johnson