Page Updated: 19/10/98
Simon Beckett
Simon Beckett
About the Author (Photo by Sean Pollock)
Bibliography
Where There's SmokeWhere There's Smoke


Hardback
Hodder & Stoughton (1997)
Where There's Smoke
`Professional woman seeks donor for artificial insemination' A terrifying dark-edged thriller that brilliantly exposes the raw fear of a desperate woman pitted against, yet ultimately tied to, a potential killer Kate Powell is a career orientated single woman, desperate to have a child without the ties of a relationship. Artificial insemination appears to be the ideal solution but she is loathe to use an anonymous donor and decides to take the unusual step of advertising for her own, for someone who must understand that they are merely a donor and will not in any way be responsible for, or even meet the child. A clinical psychologist comes forward and seems to be the answer to all her problems, but appearances can be deceptive and soon the control, that Kate so carefully exercises over all aspects of her life, is taken out of her hands. She is playing with fire. Having taken drastic steps to become pregnant she is now faced with certain danger, and a very different dilemma. WHERE THERE'S SMOKE is a compelling thriller that focuses on tomorrow's debates. With more and more women single and immersed in their careers Kate's dilemma seems increasingly likely, and with it the possibility of artificial insemination - and unknown risks. Simon Beckett also touches on the question of abortion in extreme cases.

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About The Author
After doing an MA in literature, SIMON BECKETT started his own business, which he later sold to teach English in Spain. He's been a percussionist in a rock/pop band and is currently a freelance journalist, writing for national newspapers and colour supplements. He is married and lives in Sheffield. WHERE THERE'S SMOKE is his third novel. His previous novel, ANIMALS, won the Raymond Chandler Society's 'Marlowe' award for Best international Crime Novel.

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Bibliography
N.B. dates and publishers in dark red indicate British First Editions. Dates and publishers in black indicate recent reprints.

  • Owning Jacob (Hodder & Stoughton, 1998) New Hodder & Stoughton Sep 98
  • Where There's Smoke (Hodder & Stoughton, 1997) Hodder & Stoughton Sep 97
  • Animals
  • Fine Lines

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