The Crime Writers’ Association

ILP John Creasey First Novel Dagger 2026

Shortlisted


Laura McCluskey

The Wolf Tree

Published by: HarperCollins - Hemlock Press

Judges’ comments

A tense, atmospheric thriller, perfectly interweaving suspense and folk horror. This compelling story, laced with superstition, explores the dark underbelly of an isolated community to devastating effect. Laura McCluskey is a unique new voice in crime fiction.

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