'Cornwell's humour is as unexpected as it is wicked.' DAILY MIRROR 'an irreverant and strikingly characterised portrait of law enforcement at the mercy of politics.' CRIME TIME 'A unique, often hilarious experience.' IRISH TATLER Be aware: this is not your typical Cornwell novel. Not only is there no Kay Scarpetta, but Isle of Dogs is a comic romp, a real departure for this author. It centres around a couple of characters from past books--police chief Judy Hammer and reporter-turned-cop Andy Brazil of Hornet's Nest and Southern Cross--but the plot, style and tone will remind you more of Carl Hiaasen's dark comedies. The madcap doings get underway when the addled, nearly blind governor of Virginia confusedly launches a speed-trap program on isolated Tangier Island, whose prickly, eccentric residents promptly attempt secession. Cornwell adeptly interweaves other crisscrossing plot lines involving a gang of street-stupid thugs gunning for Hammer and Brazil, an angel-faced serial killer, a kidnapped dog and more. She does miss a few beats: the pacing sags during certain episodes, and at times the writing strains so hard for laughs that instead it draws winces. Nonetheless, Isle of Dogs is for the most part a funny, diverting read and a refreshing departure for Cornwell.' - Nicholas H Allison, AMAZON.COM 'A riveting, stay up all night chiller. Hugely enjoyable' ELLE

Patricia Cornwell divides her time between Richmond, Virginia and New York. She has won numerous awards for her ground-breaking Dr Kay Scarpetta series. She has helped to establish the Virginia Institute of Forensic Science and Medicine and serves as its Chairman of the Board.