A Lovely Day to Die - 'Irresistible' (Val McDermid)

''Britain''s equivalent to Patricia Highsmith, Celia Fremlin wrote psychological thrillers that changed the landscape of crime fiction for ever: her novels are domestic, subtle, penetrating - and quite horribly chilling.'' Andrew Taylor

Celia Fremlin''s third collection of stories, first published in 1984, is a baker''s dozen of gripping tales by the mistress of suspense. Within these covers are stories of family frustrations and fury - a young wife who wants rid of her husband, an elderly daughter who cannot endure her mother. Fremlin deals in the uncanny, too, constantly confounding our expectations, and those of her characters.

''Wonderfully written, subtle and disturbing.'' Times

''Written with such perception and elegance that they repay many readings.'' Glasgow Herald

''Celia Fremlin is an astonishing writer, who explores that nightmare country where brain, mind and self battle to establish the truth. She illuminates her dark world with acute perception and great wit.'' Natasha Cooper