The Empress Murders

A tense and claustrophobic mystery told with startling wit. * Tim Minchin *A uniquely brilliant reimagining of the nautical murder mystery … It’s a novel that is both literary and highly readable. Unequivocally recommended. * Richard Roxburgh *Prepare to be both dazzled and discombobulated. You have been warned. * Sydney Morning Herald *Readers expecting to snuggle up with a bit of Miss Marple-style cosy crime will be in for a shock … a book that will leave you thinking. * The Australian *Whatever you think this book is, think again. Cosy murder mystery? Historical crime fiction? Flamboyant literary feast? Slasher horror? The Empress Murders has all that, but Toby Schmitz has created a unique beast. I loved it. What a trip. Be ready for anything. * Malcolm Knox, author of The First Friend *

Toby Schmitz is a writer, director and actor. He was most recently seen on television in Boy Swallows Universe and on stage in Gaslight. He has received nominations for his performances in The Seagull, Thyestes, Much Ado About Nothing, Measure for Measure, Ruben Guthrie and The Great. His television credits include The Twelve and Black Sails. He is also a celebrated playwright. His plays include Degenerate Art, I Want to Sleep With Tom Stoppard and Capture the Flag. He was awarded the Patrick White Award for his play Lucky.