Murder By The Bottle

Dive into the gripping world of 'Murder By The Bottle', a masterfully penned novel by Ed Whitfield that intricately weaves themes of art, wine, and deceit. Set against the backdrop of provincial retail, this captivating book showcases an unreliable narrator, Keir Rothwell, whose tumultuous journey begins after heartbreak strikes. In a compelling first-person narrative reminiscent of noir classics like Jim Thompson, Keir finds himself excluded from his art school after a shocking exhibition piece meant to criticize his lover. However, a job at the local wine shop, In Vino Veritas, presents him with a unique opportunity to reclaim his identity and win back his former flame.

As Keir transforms the shop into an avant-garde art installation, utilizing repurposed wine critiques that unnervingly reflect the patrons, tension escalates rapidly. The intertwined fates of Keir, the oblivious customers, and an unyielding detective create a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue. Will past secrets unravel in this picturesque Cornish seaside town, or will Keir succeed in navigating the treacherous waters of crime, creativity, and passion?

'Murder By The Bottle' isn't just a novel—it's a profound exploration of character, morality, and the price of obsession. Ideal for fans of psychological thrillers and those who appreciate the nuanced connection between art and emotional turmoil, this book promises to leave readers on the edge of their seats, eager for each twist and turn until the final page.

Author: Ed Whitfield Publisher: Red Door Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 129 x 198 mm
Pages: 288
Publication Date: 17-06-2021

An unreliable first-person narrative in the tradition of noir writer, Jim Thompson, set in the world of art, wine, and provincial retail. Spurned by his lover and mentor, art student Keir Rothwell presents a gruesome effigy of her at his art school's end of year show and is promptly excluded. A job at a local wine shop, In Vino Veritas, gives Keir a lifeline and a delicious opportunity. Resolving to regain his place and his lover's attention, he plots to reinvent the shop as a working art installation under the noses of unwitting customers and colleagues. The repurposed wine critiques make grotesques of the shop's clientele and tension soon builds on both sides of the counter. When conflict turns to murder, the would-be artist is forced to fight a rear guard action against a tenacious detective and inquisitive customers. Will a long buried past now threaten the future of a Cornish seaside town? Murder by the Bottle is a compelling study in character, criminality and truth.