The List Of Suspicious Things: The No.1 Sunday Times Bestseller By Jennie Godfrey - Fiction - Paperback
Free 48-Hour Delivery
On orders over £35
Fast UK Dispatch
Orders shipped within 24 hours
Easy 30-Day Returns
Hassle-free returns on eligible items
Secure Checkout
Safe & encrypted payment options
Title:
The List Of Suspicious Things
Format: Paperback
Overview:
The List of Suspicious Things is a gripping, character-driven mystery set in a close-knit Yorkshire town during the late 1970s. Twelve-year-old Miv finds the world shifting beneath her feet as her mother falls silent and her father hints at moving the family away because of the fear that stalks the streets—fear tied to a string of brutal murders that have gripped the community. To make sense of the danger around her, Miv and her best friend Sharon compile a list of “suspicious things” they notice in their neighbourhood, turning everyday moments into clues and courage into action. Jennie Godfrey’s debut novel—now marketed with the No.1 Sunday Times Bestseller distinction in this edition—balances warmth, wit, and wonder with unsettling sharpness, offering a tale that is as heartrending as it is page-turning. Rich with period detail, it breathes 1979 Britain to life—from Thatcher’s election to the rhythms of domestic life—while inviting readers to question what they see, and who they trust, when danger feels close at hand. This is a coming-of-age story that lingers long after the final page.
What Makes This Book Stand Out:
What sets The List of Suspicious Things apart is its deft fusion of coming-of-age tenderness with a quietly mounting suspense, all told through the intimate lens of a 12-year-old narrator. The titular list becomes a compelling narrative device: a concrete map of a child’s growing awareness, a way to process fear, and a bridge to deeper truths about family, community, and injustice. The historical setting—Yorkshire in 1979—provides an atmospheric backdrop that feels meticulously researched and lived, infusing every scene with texture, sound, and era-specific detail. Godfrey’s voice is precise, humane, and surprisingly funny at times, ensuring readers are emotionally invested even as the stakes grow. The novel also stands out as a standalone, complete story that invites reflection on courage, resilience, and the quiet acts of resistance that help communities endure difficult times.
Who This Book Is Perfect For:
This book is ideal for readers who love mystery with a rich sense of place and a strong emotional center. Fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age narratives will find much to connect with, as will book clubs seeking a thought-provoking, discussion-worthy title. It’s well-suited to adults who enjoy character-driven stories about family, friendship, and the social dynamics of small-town life, as well as younger adults who appreciate lyrical, accessible storytelling. If you relish novels that blend suspense with heartfelt moments and offer vivid period detail, this is a standout choice for personal reading, gifting, or group discussions.
Key Highlights:
- The List Of Suspicious Things as a No.1 Sunday Times Bestseller edition adds contemporary prestige to a powerful debut.
- Insightful coming-of-age narrative told through a vivid twelve-year-old voice (Miv).
- A richly drawn late-1970s Yorkshire setting with authentic social and cultural details.
- A compelling narrative device—the list—that turns ordinary observations into clues.
- A seamless blend of mystery, friendship, and family resilience.
- Standalone novel with a complete, satisfying emotional arc.
- Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries, historical fiction, and book-club-ready reads.
About the Author:
Jennie Godfrey was born and raised in Yorkshire, and The List of Suspicious Things marks her debut novel. Her writing channels the warmth and grit of northern communities, pairing intimate, character-driven storytelling with a strong sense of place. The book’s blend of coming-of-age moments with a suspenseful historical backdrop showcases a distinctive voice that is both observant and empathetic. Godfrey’s work has drawn readers who crave emotionally resonant fiction anchored in real-life settings, with a narrator whose voice continues to captivate and linger long after the last page.
Why You’ll Love This Book:
If you love literary suspense that doesn’t sacrifice heart for mystery, this is a perfect pick. The List of Suspicious Things delivers a memorable, voice-driven experience—imaginative, fiercely atmospheric, and emotionally honest. It invites both solo reading and rich discussion, making it ideal for bookshelf staple status, thoughtful gift-giving, or a captivating reading group choice. The paperback edition’s accessible length and compelling narrative arc make it an inviting entry point for new readers while offering the depth and nuance that seasoned mystery fans crave. A standout blend of nostalgia, danger, and resilience, it’s the kind of book you want to lend and then re-read.
Please Note: The individual books included in this listing will be dispatched as per the original UK ISBN and UK edition cover image shown in the image.
