Synopsis: A TIME TO BE BORN Twelve-year-old Tom and his family have just moved to a small town perched on the crest of the moor. But troubles begin when Tom sees a mysterious child lurking around the nearby churchyard.

A TIME TO DIE Psychiatrist Evi is trying to treat a young woman haunted by the disappearance of her little girl. A devastating fire burned down their home, but even two years on she is convinced her daughter survived.

A TIME TO KILL Harry is the town’s new vicar, quickly befriended by the locals. But unusual events around the church suggest he isn’t entirely welcome, and that this odd little town harbours a terrifying secret.

Judges’ comments: Set in an isolated and isolating community, this is a children-in-peril narrative with a powerful twist.

S.J. Bolton was born in Lancashire. She lives near Oxford with her husband and young son, and is currently working on her next thriller.