Glossop author launches gripping new Gothic mystery

Local writer Mark P. Henderson’s latest novel, The Man in the Mirror, combines romance, espionage, murder and Gothic intrigue - and readers are invited to celebrate its launch in Glossop. 

'The Man in the Mirror', published by Fantastic Books Publishing, centres on Madeleine, a feisty journalist, and Cosimo, a brilliant and wealthy aristocrat. To the outside world, they appear to be the perfect couple. But beneath the surface, both carry the scars of troubled childhoods, and their seemingly idyllic relationship soon becomes entangled in a web of secrets. 

When Madeleine begins investigating the mysteries surrounding Cosimo’s ancient mansion, she discovers that the house conceals far more than she imagined. Cosimo, too, has secrets of his own - and as Madeleine gets closer to the truth, she finds herself in danger. 

Readers will have the opportunity to meet the author and discover more about his latest work at a special book launch on Monday 9th November from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, in the large upstairs room at Glossop Labour Club on Chapel Street. All are welcome. 

Mark has led a varied career, spanning medicine, biomedical research, university teaching, writing and storytelling. After graduating from Edinburgh Medical School more than 50 years ago, he travelled widely, working first as a medical practitioner and later as a biomedical researcher and lecturer. 

In 2002, aged 56, he retired from his university post and returned to his birthplace, Glossop, where he embarked on a new chapter in his working life. 

He established a one-man manuscript-editing business, which he continues to run from his home, before turning his attention to the rich heritage of traditional Peak District folktales. He has collected and performed these stories for a variety of audiences, as well as recording some on film. 

His move into fiction followed in 2004. Since then, he has had 14 books published by five different publishing houses, including six novels. Alongside his writing and editing, he teaches creative writing to adults and helps organise informal meetings for local members of the Society of Authors. 

Mark has also played an active role in Glossop’s creative community. He became secretary of the local creative writing group in 2013 and is a founder member and Chair of Glossop BookFest, a grant-supported organisation that champions local authors and illustrators, with a particular emphasis on encouraging creativity among children. 

With The Man in the Mirror, Mark brings together his experience as a novelist and his fascination with stories, secrets and human nature in a new work that promises suspense and intrigue. 

For readers who enjoy dark mysteries, complicated relationships and the unsettling secrets hidden behind respectable façades, the new novel offers an intriguing glimpse into a world where appearances can be deceptive. 

You can find out more about Mark and his writing at: markphenderson.co.uk