The First Cut - by Peter Robinson (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Published in the UK as Caedmon's Song, this is a gripping standalone thriller from New York Times bestselling author Peter Robinson.

On a balmy June night, Kirsten, a young university student, is strolling home through a silent moonlit park when she is viciously attacked.

When she awakens in the hospital, she has no recollection of that brutal night. But then slowly, painfully, details reveal themselves--dreams of two figures, one white and one black, hovering over her; snatches of a strange and haunting song; the unfamiliar texture of a rough and deadly hand . . .

In another part of the country, Martha Browne arrives in a Yorkshire seaside town, posing as an author doing research for a book. But her research is of a particularly macabre variety. Who is she hunting with such deadly determination? And why?

The First Cut is a vivid and compelling psychological thriller, from the author of the critically acclaimed Inspector Banks series.

From the Back Cover

On a balmy June night, Kirsten, a young university student, is strolling home through a silent moonlit park when she is viciously attacked.

When she awakens in the hospital, she has no recollection of that brutal night. But then, slowly, painfully, details reveal themselves--dreams of two figures, one white and one black, hovering over her; snatches of a strange and haunting song; the unfamiliar texture of a rough and deadly hand. . . .

In another part of the country, Martha Browne arrives in a Yorkshire seaside town, posing as an author doing research for a book. But her research is of a particularly macabre variety. Who is she hunting with such deadly determination? And why?

The First Cut is a vivid and compelling psychological thriller, from the author of the critically acclaimed Inspector Banks series.

Review Quotes

"The novels of Peter Robinson are chilling, evocative, deeply nuanced works of art." - Dennis Lehane
"Brilliant....dark, frightening [and] satisfying." - Chicago Tribune
"The best series now on the market. Try one and tell me I'm wrong." - Stephen King
"Inspector Banks is a man for all seasons." - Michael Connelly
"Thrilling-brilliantly plotted, beautifully paced." - Louise Penny
"Harrowing. . . . the suspense builds mercilessly to a high pitch . . . it's spellbinding." - Ottawa Citizen
Praise for The First Cut: "An exceptionally well-crafted psychological thriller." - Toronto Globe and Mail
"A powerful and haunting novel, ingenious in construction and both intelligent and compassionate." - Toronto Star
Praise for Peter Robinson and the Detective Banks series: "Exemplary." - New York Times Book Review
"Exquisite." - USA Today
"Taut ... Robinson keeps up the suspense ... Shows a welcome new side to [Inspector] Banks' accomplished career." - Kirkus Reviews
"This atmospheric tale of suspense will keep readers wondering what's really going on....Highly recommended." - Library Journal (Starred)