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A Slow Fire Burning

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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

A Richard & Judy Book Club Pick.

THE SCORCHING SUNDAY TIMES no.1 BESTSELLER FROM THE AUTHOR OF THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN

Penguin presents the audio edition of A Slow Fire Burning, read by Rosamund Pike.

'What is wrong with you?'

Laura has spent most of her life being judged. She's seen as hot-tempered, troubled, a loner. Some even call her dangerous.

Miriam knows that just because Laura is witnessed leaving the scene of a horrific murder with blood on her clothes, that doesn't mean she's a killer. Bitter experience has taught her how easy it is to get caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Carla is reeling from the brutal murder of her nephew. She trusts no one: good people are capable of terrible deeds. But how far will she go to find peace?

Innocent or guilty, everyone is damaged. Some are damaged enough to kill.

Look what you started.

'Shocking, moving, full of heart . . . A Slow Fire Burning shows a writer at the height of her powers.' Observer (Thriller of the Month)

'Superbly told, its twists and turns reveal the slow fire burning inside each which might just destroy them. Utterly compelling.' Daily Mail

'Fast-paced, highly charged and carried off with so much confidence that it is impossible to resist.'
Sunday Times

© Paula Hawkins 2021 (P) Penguin Audio 2021

 Crime Thrillers Mystery Psychological Thriller Thriller & Suspense Women Sleuths Crime Fiction Scary Exciting Murder Suspense

Critic reviews

From the first sentence to the last, this explosive, startling novel grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. Fiendishly clever and with a wonderful sense of place too. Go read!
I love Paula Hawkins, and this is why - A Slow Fire Burning twists and turns like a great thriller should, but it's also deep, intelligent and intensely human . . . the characters are just like people you know . . . or maybe even just like you yourself. Hawkins is proving herself a worthy 21st century heir to Barbara Vine and Patricia Highsmith.
My Book of the Month, for which I predict big things . . . An intriguing, unputdownable thriller that is as much about the compelling, damaged characters as it is about the intricate plot.
With a beautifully wrought cast of characters who are real and likeable even when they are complicated and flawed, a fantastic, picturesque London setting, twists and turns galore and exquisite prose, this is a high class read. Paula Hawkins is a genius.
Paula Hawkins's plotting is meticulous. A Slow Fire Burning is a clever onion of a book, expertly peeled.
Dark and disturbing, this twisted story with its cast of damaged characters builds to a brilliant conclusion. This one will stay with you for a long time.
Gripping and intriguing, I loved every moment of A Slow Fire Burning. Hawkins goes from strength to strength.
An unflinching look at the damage sparked by grief, loss and betrayal - and the revenge and retribution that ensues. Compelling and intricately plotted, it was its flawed and utterly credible women, and the warmth and wit of their irreverent voices, that I loved the most.
A new Paula Hawkins novel is always a cause for celebration. Her books have all the pleasing twists of the noir genre while at the same time having something to say that feels real and complex and true - her women characters feel like someone you actually know.
A Slow Fire Burning is a hugely gripping, character-based thriller, with great writing and brilliant twists. Highly recommended.
All stars
Most relevant
So enjoyed this thriller, superb characters. A page turner from beginning to end. Worth the wait.

worth waiting for

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I really enjoyed both the narration and the story. I will definitely seek out more by this author. Couldn't stop listening!

compulsive listening

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This is a novel I loved from start to finish. Rosamund Pike was the heroine/villain of Gone Girl (another of Paula Hawkins fabulous novels) and her narration to this perfect thriller was outstanding. Narration to those of us who listen instead of reading is of paramount importance and this is perfection. How she could possibly adapt her glorious natural tones to fit those of so many characters, was amazing, whilst her artistry made the novel come to life. As for the novel itself - bravo Paula Hawkins! There are layers upon layers, convincing back stories, twists aplenty and enough suspense to keep me completely absorbed. I simply loved every word, every nuance and will archive this title for another day - and recommend it to any discerning listener who enjoys a darn good story

Absolutely splendid

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Loved it! Listened to it on holiday in no time! would recommend to get a copy and read it too

Great book

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This is intriguingly good. To hear the plots and subplots skilfully drawn together by the voices and inflections of a skilled actor/narrator turns a very strong story into a superb audiobook. (Michael).

Intriguingly Good

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