The Stopping Place

A librarian becomes obsessed with a coworker's secrets in this compelling psychological thriller from a highly original talent (Beryl Bainbridge). Ruby Robinson drifts through life stacking shelves at the libraryquiet, solitary, invisible. Invisibility makes it easier to notice things, though, and Ruby has always valued the importance of knowledge. She watches the world go by from her place amongst the bookshelves. The bored students, the domestic dramas, and her colleague Marthavivacious, wild, enchanting. Drawn in by Martha's light, Ruby finds herself watching, observing ... which is how she spots the cracks in Martha's shiny new relationship before anyone else. An unsettling feeling. A flinch. Forced to intervene, Ruby is drawn out of the shadows. But all actions have consequences, particularly for someone with a past she'd rather forget ... The Stopping Place is a smart, suspenseful tale by an author who reels you in, teases you and rewards you ( The Scotsman ).