Guilty by Definition

Guilty by Definitionwill delight anyone who appreciates fine crime writing as well as logophiles and lovers of Inspector Morse -- Mark Sanderson * The Times *
This astonishingly clever literary mystery will be catnip to logophiles and cruciverbalists alike * The Guardian *
The twisty narrative zips along and I rooted for Martha from the start. It's beautifully written and full of rare or forgotten words, which felt pleasingly educational. Wonderful. * Daily Mail *
Dent has struck a perfect balance between the language lessons of Bill Bryson and amateur sleuthing of Richard Osman * Buzz Mag *
Guilty by Definition was simply a marvel. It is a fiendishly clever mystery, packed with twists and turns and delightfully interesting wordplay. Do not miss this brilliant book * Nerd Daily *
Charming ... the whole novel is a joy for word lovers * Belfast Telegraph *
If you're like me and love both language and crime, then Guilty by Definition has it all. Susie Dent's impressive debut novel is virtuosic. So meticulously and fascinatingly steeped in the archaic glory of words, it will surely be the ultimate treat for every logophile out there. But this is so much more than a celebration of the dictionary - it's a tantalising mystery of a missing sister, a cold case that will not lie down, and a family frozen in their unresolved grief... all while their circle of friends and colleagues nurse secrets and lies beyond explication. Guilty by Definition is positively aglitter with etymological and detecting treasures for word-sleuths and crime-fans alike. * Janice Hallett, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Appeal *
The main characters are people I'd like to meet in real life; the Oxford types are convincing; the puzzle is well worked-out. And it kept me reading eagerly * Philip Pullman *
The brilliant lexicographer turns out to be a brilliant storyteller too. This is huge fun and, as you'd expect, also beautifully written * Gyles Brandreth *
Quite simply one the finest mysteries I have ever read * Rob Rinder *
What a delicious, genuinely page-turning and brilliantly written literary mystery novel this is. More please! * Laline Paull, author of The Bees *
A terrific page-turner and beautifully written too * Waitrose Weekend *
Such a clever debut from our resident wordsmith! Dent: verb, to make an impression * Saga Magazine *
Guilty by Definition is a love letter to the English language wrapped about an intriguing puzzle of a story. The characters are believable and compelling, with secrets and stories of their own that unfold alongside the central mystery. I must have formed and discarded a dozen theories, not only about whodunnit, but also why-, what-, when- and where-dunnit - all entirely wrong. I'd love to read a sequel - or a whole series! * Anne Corlett, author of The Theatre of Glass and Shadows *