Celia Fremlin (1914-2009) was renowned for her suburban tales of psycho-domestic noir, and this collection, first published in 1984, features 13 acid drop-laced tales that really pack a sting. The title story, for instance, begins, “If only she’d known that it would be as easy as this, she’d have done it long ago. Still holding the pillow firmly down over the old woman’s face, Millicent allowed her eyes to travel warily down the length of the wide, old-fashioned bed.” Elsewhere, trapped husbands, wives, lovers, and sundry family members plot dastardly deeds against each other. Some succeed, some are thwarted, but most are left disappointed (or dead). Every location—from idyllic cottages to cruise ships to seaside retreats—is filled with shadows, and Fremlin delights in leading us to them and showing us their darkest recesses. RM

Published by Faber