"This year has certainly been a prolific year for crime fiction, with several new entrants to the genre who I think are definitely set to give the old guard a run for their money. This year for me has been about new discoveries – writers who are new to the genre, or just new for me. So when it comes to choosing my top five, I have to admit that I’ve been rather spoilt for choice as I’ve read so many books that I’ve really enjoyed.

5 – Murder of the Bride by CS Challinor
Edinburgh barrister Rex Graves finds himself caught up in a murder investigation whilst attending a wedding, where the guests seem to be dropping like flies. A wealthy young woman is about to marry a local boy, but someone seems intent on wiping the family out. But who are they and why are they doing it? This is a well-crafted read and unlike other books that have a final reveal, Challinor gets Rex to explain his thoughts at regular intervals until we reach a logical and well-plotted conclusion. This one isn’t out until March 2012 – we had a preview copy – but keep an eye out for it."