Another story from Crime Classics author Julian Symons, venturing into the 1960s with a more modern feel, blending classic crime with psychological thriller. Symons was a hugely influential writer, whose book on the history of the Crime genre, Bloody Murder, is known and still hotly debated by fans worldwide. The Progress of a Crime story boasts an excellent seasonal atmosphere, with the murder taking place by the bonfire on fireworks night.

‘…has the cool, accurate vision of the best documentary.’ – Evening Standard

The murder, a brutal stabbing, definitely took place on Guy Fawkes night.

It was definitely by the bonfire on the village green. There were definitely a number of witnesses to a row between a group of Teddy Boys. And yet, was it definitely clear to anybody exactly what they had seen? In the writhing, violent shadows, it seems as if the truth may have gone up in smoke.

Based on a real case and exhibiting characteristically thorough research and skilful plotting, Julian Symons’ phenomenal 1960 novel is a searing drama of wrongful accusation, gripping policework and a sharp portrait of small-town tensions. This edition also includes the short story ‘The Tigers of Subtopia’.

Publication date: 10/09/20

Author: Julian Symons

Brand: British Library Publishing

Number of pages: 288

Binding: Paperback

Dimensions: 190 x 130 mm