Stephen J Cherrill
Deadly Design
by Stephen J Cherrill
A young woman's death is quickly ruled an accident, but DCI Cunningham isn't convinced. Driven by his relentless curiosity and sharp instincts, Cunningham—teamed with the sharp-witted but sceptical DS Greg Armstrong—launches a covert investigation beneath the radar. The case explodes open when Cunningham uncovers a critical clerical error, forcing the department to take the case seriously.
As the official investigation gets underway, the two detectives—each with their own distinct approach—are drawn into a complex web of secrets and tragedy in the town of Ashmarsh. Their pursuit of the truth propels them through twists, revelations, and mounting tension as they race to unravel the mystery behind another teenager’s untimely death.
Stephen is an indie publisher and has published a series of books based on DCI Tim Cunningham who lives in the English village of Ashmarsh.
Stephen’s journey as an author is a testament to passion and resilience, shaped by experiences across three countries. Born in the historic city of Lincoln, UK, Stephen’s early fascination with storytelling began on a humble toy typewriter, where he crafted a family newsletter. His dedication to helping others led him to serve as a Paramedic with the Lincolnshire Ambulance Service, where he also honed his writing by publishing articles in *Linc Up* magazine.
Council of Lies
The lifeless body of an unidentified man emerges from a tranquil stream in Ashmarsh. Inside the victim's nondescript home, detectives Cunningham and Armstrong stumble upon encrypted computer files and a hidden firearm. This isn't a case of random misfortune; someone was intent on silencing this man.
Meanwhile, Cunningham's friend Philippe Duval departs from the council, troubled by a veiled threat and behind-the-scenes deals. DS Greg Armstrong recognises the signs—he's witnessed this corruption before. It's all too familiar: legal on the surface, yet lethal at its core.
Convinced that the stranger had uncovered something significant, Cunningham and Armstrong seek the assistance of a witch, delving into a perilous realm where power is shielded by dark incantations, and secrets are worth killing for.
ONE BODY. ONE SECRET.
AND A CONSPIRACY WORTH KILLING FOR.
After Anna’s death, the bay no longer looks the same.
Alone in a quiet Queensland seaside town, a widower returns each day to the water, casting his line into silence and speaking to the wife who is gone. Then a pelican lands on the bow of his boat.
He names her Rose.
Wild, watchful, and strangely faithful, Rose becomes an unlikely companion, listening as grief slowly finds its voice. Through her quiet presence and the new life unfolding in his son’s family, he begins to discover that love does not end with loss — it changes shape.
Tender and contemplative, this is a story of grief, memory, and the unexpected grace that can guide us home.