Slur by Heather Burnside – Reviewed by Guy Portman
Attractive and vivacious twenty-something Julie Quinley’s carefree existence comes to an abrupt halt when a night out culminates in her and best friend Rita being accused of a murder they did not commit. Snubbed by colleagues at work and cold-shouldered by her neighbours, Julie’s life descends into turmoil, as she finds herself nearing despair.
However, with the support of family and friends, including the plucky Rita, Julie resolves to prove her innocence by finding the real perpetrator of the crime and bringing them to justice.
Set in the Manchester of the 1980s, Slur, author Diane Mannion’s debut novel, has a dramatic opening that utilises an effective non-linear use of time, and a fast-paced, action-filled plot. Replete with authentic cultural references, realistic characters and believable dialogue, Slur will no doubt prove to be popular with crime fiction aficionados.
