A mesmerising Gothic mystery from Costa Award-shortlisted author Nicholas Bowling.

'Nicholas Bowling is a thrilling writer' THE TELEGRAPH

‘This atmospheric gothic mystery is ideal winter fare for 12+.’ THE GUARDIAN

To the horror of young gravedigger, Ned, bodysnatchers have been visiting his churchyard in the dead of night. Until now, he'd been daydreaming about another visitor – daughter of the manor, Obedience Wellrest.

But sixteen-year-old Obedience has troubles of her own: her loving but overbearing father, and his wish to see her married to a rich man of science, Phineas Mordaunt.

When Mordaunt starts to poke his nose into her family history – in particular, the ruinous research of late Uncle Herbert – Obedience enters into a dangerous game with Death, and Ned might be the only person who can save her …

• A mesmerising tale of magic, death and science, wrapped up in a delicious Gothic mystery


• Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell meets Dangerous Remedy – for young adult readers


• From highly acclaimed Costa Award-shortlisted author, Nicholas Bowling