Derek Landy lives near Dublin. Before writing his children's story about a sharply-dressed skeleton detective, he wrote the screenplays for a zombie movie and a murderous horror film. I think my career-guidance teacher is spinning in her grave, he says, or she would be if she were dead.
'Revelling in the dark comedy, action set-pieces and unforgettable characters that are a hallmark of the Skulduggery Pleasant series, this standalone novel transports readers to early eighteenth-century Italy where our heroes are forced to save the Lord of the Dark Sorcerers' Waterstones, Books You Need to Read in 2023 Praise for the Skulduggery Pleasant series: 'A writer at the height of his powers . . . Whatever your age, read them and enjoy the ride' Irish Independent 'Fast and funny' The Times 'Skulduggery Pleasant serves up a thoroughly satisfying blend of humour, magic and adventure' Rick Riordan 'Landy's witty style will win him fans of all ages' Irish Mail on Sunday 'Hugely enjoyable - a thrill-a-minute adventure' Jonathan Stroud 'A fast evolving plot and a great mix of scariness and humour' Sunday Express 'Exciting, pacy, nicely handled and fun' Philip Ardagh, Guardian 'Gripping' Observer 'A remarkably accomplished debut with wonderful dialogue' Irish Times 'A rip-roaring adventure' Irish Sunday Independent