The First 48 Hours

A detective is on the hunt for cold-blooded killers, but he may be hiding crucial information. In Simon Kernick's gripping novel, The First 48 Hours, three interlinked narratives unfold over a tense two-day period, exploring the thin line between morality and survival.

The Plot

A mother, a lawyer, grapples with a profound moral dilemma as she defends a murderer, torn between her duty to the law and her instinct to protect her daughter. Simultaneously, a couple embroils themselves in the planning of the perfect crime, only to find their trust in one another increasingly tested. Each character’s fate hangs perilously in the balance as the clock ticks down.

Themes

• Moral Ambiguity: The novel delves into the complexities of justice and the choices individuals make when faced with life-altering decisions.
• Trust and Betrayal: Kernick explores the fragility of relationships under pressure, questioning whether love can withstand the strain of deceit.
• Time Pressure: The urgency of the first 48 hours serves as a relentless backdrop, heightening tension and adding to the stakes for each character.

"The first 48 hours could determine if they live or die."

Fans of Kernick's previous works, such as Relentless and Deadline, will find familiar themes of suspense and moral complexity in this latest offering. The First 48 Hours stands out as a compelling exploration of human nature when faced with dire circumstances, ensuring that readers remain on the edge of their seats until the very last page.