This is a novel, and all the characters and events are imaginary. However, some topographical aspects of Hemlock Bay (notably Hemlock Head) were inspired by a visit to Heysham on a gorgeous summer day in 2023: J.M.W. Turner may never have explored Hemlock Bay, but he did rhapsodise over Heysham. I benefited from studying the informative materials held at the excellent Heritage Centre in the village, and Kath Gregson’s evocative account of her memories of the amusements at Heysham Head influenced my general description of Paradise.
The Lobby Lud publicity stunt was indeed inspired by the disappearance of Agatha Christie. Koremlu Cream was a real product which enjoyed a brief vogue in the United States before the disastrous consequences of using thallium became evident. The bold claims made for Koremlu can be found in a booklet available online; today, they make sobering reading. There is an informative discussion about thallium in John Emsley’s The Elements of Murder.
I’m grateful to Helena Edwards for her work on the maps and also to my agent James Wills and his colleagues at Watson, Little for their help and encouragement. I’d also like to thank my publishers, in particular my editor Bethan Jones at Aries, and Louis Greenberg for his copyediting.
Martin Edwards