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The Family Friend
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  • Published: 12 April 2026
  • ISBN: 9780241764275
  • Imprint: Michael Joseph
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 400
  • RRP: $49.99

The Family Friend

Formats & editions
Paperback
6 Oct 2026
Tr. Paperback
17 Mar 2026
Hardback
12 Apr 2026
EBook
12 Mar 2026
Audiobook
12 Mar 2026
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The gripping new thriller from the Number 1 Sunday Times bestseller.

When Imogen is told she’s inherited a country house near Bath, she thinks it must be a mistake. She last saw its owner, reclusive artist Dorothea Roe, sixteen years ago, during a tragic summer which changed her life for ever.

Now, with partner Josh in tow, it’s a chance for a fresh start.

But after discovering an old box with her name on it in Dorothea’s abandoned study, Imogen starts to believe the woman was trying to send her a secret message.

And when rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered, she starts to suspect that this gift might not be the life-line she thought it was.

Who would want to kill Dorothea?

Could it be tangled up in Imogen’s own dark family history?

And what if Imogen is now the one in danger?
  • Published: 12 April 2026
  • ISBN: 9780241764275
  • Imprint: Michael Joseph
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 400
  • RRP: $49.99

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About the author

Claire Douglas

Claire Douglas has worked as a journalist for fifteen years writing features for women's magazines and national newspapers, but she's dreamed of being a novelist since the age of seven. She finally got her wish after winning the Marie Claire Debut Novel Award, with her first novel, The Sisters. She lives in Bath with her husband and two children.
portrait photo of Claire Douglas

Also by Claire Douglas

The Wrong Sister
The New Neighbours
The Woman Who Lied
The Couple at No 9
Just Like the Other Girls
Then She Vanishes
Do Not Disturb
See all

Praise for The Family Friend

Clever, humane, with gasp-out-loud twists, it’s a story that lingers in the mind long after the last page.

EVE CHASE

One of the most reliable names in unputdownable suspense.

iPaper

A pacy gripping thriller that fans will lap up

PRIMA

Dark and addictive... This thriller has got it all...you'll be hooked!

BEST

Another addictive read

My Weekly

Suspense and intrigue all the way

Sun

With The Family Friend, Claire Douglas has once again upped her already high game. A captivating and powerful story of the past and present coming together and dark secrets that won’t stay buried. Superb!

BA Paris