Day One

*The breathtaking new novel from the bestselling author of Girl A*

Marty told the reporters that she saw it happen. She saw the gunman enter the hall. She saw her mother die trying to protect them all.

That’s the version of Day One Marty wishes was true.

But strange inconsistencies in her story begin to surface. Details that don’t add up. Questions she can’t answer.

The story ignites. Amidst the media frenzy, conspiracy theorists become obsessed with exposing what really happened. And at the epicentre of it all is a small community changed forever. Survivors crushed by guilt. Families torn in half. Outsiders consumed by the hunt for truth.

Each has their own version of Day One. Each must grapple with this tragedy, even as fanatics question whether it ever really happened at all.

But what did Marty really see?

And why would she lie?

As events spiral out of control, the true story is revealed, piece by shocking piece. Day One is an unflinching and heart-breaking exploration of our obsession with tragedy – and what it really means to live it.

*Praise for DAY ONE*

‘I couldn’t put this down… layered, frightening, moving.’ Stacey Halls

‘DAY ONE is a devastating, beautiful novel written with such skill, grace and compassion that I couldn't stop reading through the tears’ Jennifer Saint

‘Gripping and beautifully written, DAY ONE confronts the darkest parts of human nature with guts and grace. I loved it.’ Emilia Hart

‘A gripping examination of a community devastated … A chilling, thought-provoking read. Brilliant.’ Shari Lapena

‘Utterly gripping.’ Juno Dawson

‘Intriguing and brave, a beautiful writer.’ Adele Parks

‘Abigail Dean is a masterful writer and this is an exceptionally skilful book – brutal yet beautiful’ Clare Mackintosh