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The Impossible Thing

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The Impossible Thing

By: Belinda Bauer
Narrated by: Phil Dunster
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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

From the exceptionally original mind of CWA Gold Dagger Award winner and Booker-longlisted author Belinda Bauer, a sweeping tale of obsession, greed, ambition, and a crime that has remained unsolved for a hundred years.

It was the greatest mystery never told . . .

1926. On the towering cliffs of Yorkshire, men are lowered on ropes to steal the eggs of the sea birds who nest there. The most beautiful are sold for large sums. But when small and hungry Celie Sheppard finds an 'impossible' red egg, it will forever alter the course of her life - and the lives of others.

100 years later in a remote cottage in Wales, Patrick Fort discovers his friend, Nick, and his mother tied up and robbed. The only thing missing: a carved case containing an incredible scarlet egg. Doggedly attempting to retrieve it, Patrick and Nick discover the cruel world of egg trafficking, and soon find themselves on the trail of a priceless collection of eggs lost to history. Until now.

A taut, wonderfully imagined novel brimming with skullduggery at every turn, The Impossible Thing is a blazing testament to Belinda Bauer’s status as one of our greatest living crime writers.

‘A captivating novel from one of the UK’s most talented storytellers. I loved every page of this unique mystery.’ CLARE MACKINTOSH

‘The gift of The Impossible Thing is the pure joy of reading.’ VAL MCDERMID

'Extraordinary. There's a deceptive simplicity to The Impossible Thing that packs a real punch.' ANN CLEEVES

©2025 Belinda Bauer (P)2025 Penguin Audio
Crime Thrillers Historical Mystery Thriller & Suspense Heartfelt

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All stars
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Such an unexpected story, engrossing and entertaining in equal measure. The narration was also excellent.

Another winner from Belinda

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Wonderful characters and a pleasure to get swept along with the story. I didn't want it to end.

Hooked from the start

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Very enjoyable - will be worth a re-read to get the full impact of the ending, which, because I listened too it over an extended period, lost its relevance and impact.

Back and forth storyline

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A gripping story read wonderfully by the narrator. I was so happy to have Patrick back as one of the main characters. I have read all of Belinda’s books and she never disappoints. ❤️

The Impossible Thing by Belinda Bauer

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having read all of Belinda Bauer’s previous books, I purchased this without knowing the storyline. It was a fascinating story about a subject I knew little about, told in the way only she can. Good to see the character Patrick returning from Rubbernecker. Well worth a read. I’m looking forward to her next novel already.

Another excellent novel by Belinda Bauer

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funny and endearing characters, heartfelt moments and an insight into Guillemots! Another great novel by Belinda Bauer

great storytelling

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Central characters are drawn together across a century through a mystery, humour, fact, and fiction. A gritty and impoverished child, a neurodiverse young adult and an unwitting victim are drawn into the obsessive world of oology and the fascinating tale Metland egg.

Fabulous storytelling

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I've enjoyed Belinda Bauer's books before, including Rubbernecker, where Patrick is introduced. I wasn't sure I'd be gripped by a story about birds eggs, but I absolutely loved it. And the narration was excellent.

Wonderful!

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Captivating listen - please make this into a film! Really well written and excellent narration. Must read.

So moving

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This was such an unexpected delight. Incredibly well done, moving back and forward in time whilst keeping me fully engaged with all the characters and learning about the dreadful world of stealing eggs. This story demonstrates the craft of writing - absolutely brilliant and beautiful listen.

Outstanding

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