Saskia van der Zee | Shropshire Crime Fiction Author

Q: Is Death at the Devil's Chair part of a series?

Death at the Devil's Chair is part of a series set in the atmospheric Shropshire Hills, with a prequel short story available now and a sequel due for early 2026. Subscribe to the newsletter to be the first to know about upcoming releases.

Q: How do you pronounce your name?

It's pronounced SUSS-kee-aa van der ZEE (pronounced zay). My surname is Dutch and literally means of the sea.

Death at the Devil's Chair

Published by Dove Cottage Press

A body found in a bottomless pool. A second victim, meticulously staged and left for dead. In the desolate hills of Shropshire, a killer has arrived, and for local bunkhouse owner Marianne Leonard, the investigation is personal. When the police discover her own criminal past, her fragile new life is on the line, and she knows she's not just a witness—she's a suspect.

As DI Georgie Fraser, a detective with a haunted past of her own, delves into the dark history of the Devil's Chair, every resident of the bunkhouse becomes a person of interest. There's the blustering walking group leader, the enigmatic archaeologists, and a mysterious young man who seems to know more than he's letting on. Trust is a luxury Marianne cannot afford, for the killer is not only stalking their next victim but also unraveling Marianne's secrets one by one. Can she unmask the murderer before her life is completely destroyed?

The wild and unforgiving Shropshire landscape provides a brutal and beautiful setting for this gripping and atmospheric British crime novel that explores themes of secrets, atonement, and finding a place to belong. Perfect for fans of atmospheric mystery thrillers and detective fiction set in the Long Mynd and Stiperstones area.

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About the Author

Saskia van der Zee is a crime writer inspired by the rugged beauty of the Shropshire Hills, a passion sparked by the adventure books of her childhood. She holds a degree in Medieval History from the University of Oxford and an MA in Creative Writing. Across an eclectic career as a teacher, voice coach, and equine massage therapist, books have always been her first love. She wrote her first novel for her children – now long grown-up – in a yellow camper van at the bottom of Ashes Hollow on the Long Mynd. When she is not writing, she can be found exploring the hills with her partner or reading in front of a log fire. She lives in Shropshire, juggling her work with caring for a menagerie of horses, dogs and cats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Death at the Devil's Chair part of a series?

Death at the Devil's Chair is part of a series set in the atmospheric Shropshire Hills, with a prequel short story available now and a sequel due for early 2026. Subscribe to the newsletter to be the first to know about upcoming releases.

Will there be an audiobook version?

An audiobook version is currently in development. Sign up for the newsletter to receive updates on the audiobook release date and narrator announcements.

Are you available for book club discussions?

Yes! I love connecting with readers and book clubs. Please use the contact form to discuss availability for virtual or in-person book club visits, depending on location.

Where can I buy a signed copy?

Signed copies can be arranged through special request. Please contact me directly via the contact form with your request, and I'll be happy to arrange a personalised signed edition.

What inspired you to set the book in Shropshire?

I was inspired and fell in love with the Lone Pine books of Malcolm Saville, and Shropshire became a favourite campervan holiday destination with my children.

The rugged beauty of the Shropshire Hills, particularly the Long Mynd and the Devil's Chair at Stiperstones, captivated me. As an author, the dramatic landscape provides the perfect atmospheric backdrop for crime fiction, with its ancient legends and isolated locations creating natural tension and mystery.

What authors inspired you?

From the intricate puzzles of Agatha Christie and the atmospheric settings of Ann Cleeves to the psychological depth of Ruth Rendell and the historical richness of Ellis Peters, these masterful storytellers, alongside Malcolm Saville's sense of adventure, PD James's elegant prose, Patricia Cornwell's forensic detail, and Stieg Larsson's dark intensity, have shaped my understanding of how mystery and character can intertwine to create unforgettable stories.

How do you pronounce your name?

It's pronounced "SUSS-kee-aa van der ZEE" (pronounced zay). My surname is Dutch and literally means "of the sea."

When is your next book coming out?

I'm currently working on my next novel, due for release in early 2026. Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and early announcements about upcoming releases.