Talking to Strangers Novel By Fiona Barton

In The Heartbreak Murder, the latest nail-biting mystery from the author of Local Gone Missing, Detective Elise King finds her investigation into the murder of Karen Simmons, a woman killed on Valentine’s Day, increasingly complicated by a relentless reporter. As Elise delves into Karen’s life, she suspects the murder may be linked to a man Karen met online through dating apps. The townspeople are polarized—some blame Karen for her own demise, while others rally against the societal violence that led to her tragic fate.

Amidst the turmoil, Kiki Nunn, a single mother and ambitious journalist, seeks to make her mark in the struggling news industry. With a young daughter to support, Kiki believes that breaking the story of Karen's murder could be her ticket to success. However, her aggressive pursuit of the truth puts her directly at odds with Elise, as Kiki's unyielding determination leads her to confront not only the detective but also the killer himself.

As Elise navigates the complexities of the case and the growing tensions with Kiki, she must race against time to uncover the truth behind Karen’s murder before another life is lost. With sharp insights into the challenges faced by women in both the workplace and society, The Heartbreak Murder is a gripping exploration of justice, ambition, and the quest for truth in a world where perceptions can be deadly.