Welcome to HolyHell

In the sweltering summer of 1976, a drought-stricken town harbours a deadly secret. This compelling, atmospheric literary thriller is perfect for fans of small-town crime and rural noir from the author of Histories of the Dead and Hidden Grace.

‘Welcome To HolyHell has the sharp plotting of peak Elmore Leonard combined with the brooding lyrical atmosphere of James Lee Burke ...’ Punk Noir Magazine

‘A remarkable work that will have you dreading as well as eagerly turning the page.’ Unlawful Acts - Crime Fiction blog

'Math Bird gives us a fine bit of noir in 1976 Wales.’ Murder in Common Crime Fiction Blog

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Lies…

It’s 1976, and Britain is scorching amid an oppressive heatwave. Conman Bowen, trying to escape the hustle and bustle of London, returns to his hometown, hoping to start anew. But as fate would have it, things don’t always go as planned.

Secrets…

For young loner, Jay Ellis, stumbling across a mysterious briefcase filled with cash is nothing short of a miracle. But the newfound fortune isn’t the only thing that catches his attention - the beguiling Nash, who appears to have followed the money into town, is an even greater mystery. Could this mysterious stranger hold the key to Jay’s newfound fortune - or will he bring an even greater danger?

Betrayal…

Veteran conman Nash is determined to track down Bowen and retrieve the money he stole from him. With nothing more than a hunch and an old newspaper clipping featuring a boy who witnessed his partner’s death, Nash follows the trail. As their lives become increasingly intertwined, Nash must navigate the world of violent drifters and treacherous thieves while questioning whether a man’s conscience is his greatest strength or his greatest weakness.