Crime ain’t what it used to be. Time was, there were certain traditions, certain codes of conduct. But like everything else in Britain, drug-dealing and loan-sharking have been taken over by immigrants who don’t respect the old ways, and Charlie Hook, the last of the English Mobsters, has had enough. He’s also got a book deal, and he’s ready to spill some juicy stories, with the help of the right ghost-writer.

As Charlie sees it, the ideal ghost is veteran crime reporter Laurie Lane. Laurie’s got his doubts — he very much enjoys breathing — but before they can be resolved, Old Man Hook is found dead in his London townhouse. Is Laurie off the hook? Not so fast. The younger generation — as vicious as Daddy, but with better suits — is about to make him an offer he can’t refuse.

“A hilarious romp…a joy to read” — Evening Standard (UK)

“A real treat” — Daily Telegraph (UK)