The Last Minute

At 9.22 on Heathwick High Street, a devastating explosion occurs, leaving the street in ruins. In the confusion that follows, it's unclear whether this was the result of a gas leak, a plane crash, or even an act of terrorism.

Taking us back to 9.21, just 60 seconds before the explosion occurs, this novel offers up a captivating snapshot of life in a very ordinary British street, as the seconds tick away towards the moment of the explosion. We meet a whole host of characters, from busy parents to children on a school trip, from the homeless man on the corner to a distracted writer, each with their own complex lives, hopes, fears and dreams. But who will survive the devastation of what is about to occur? As each short, punchy chapter moves us one second towards the tragedy, Eleanor Updale keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

This gripping, high-concept novel is perfectly executed. Readers will have to use all their powers of deduction and observation to spot clues to what is going on - but there are plenty of red herrings to notice too. Unusual and different, this is a clever and compelling story that will leave readers with a lot to think about.