Richard Osman’s third book in the Thursday Murder Club series, The Bullet That Missed (Viking), has become Penguin Random House’s most pre-ordered audiobook ever, overtaking Barack Obama’s memoir A Promised Land (Viking). 

It will also be the first audiobook in the series to be narrated by BAFTA-winning actor Fiona Shaw. The first two books in Osman’s series have been narrated by Academy Award nominee Lesley Manville. She was unable to record the third due to scheduling conflicts.  

Manville said: “I’ve grown so attached to reading Richard’s truly wonderful novels that it is with a very heavy heart that I have had to withdraw from reading number three because of my filming schedule. But I’ll be able to enjoy it from a very different perspective this time… I can’t wait.” 

Shaw added: “I’ve been a fan of The Thursday Murder Club series since the first book came out, so when I got the call about reading The Bullet That Missed, it was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse. Richard Osman’s writing and plotting is remarkable but the real joy for me was the prospect of spending time with the residents of Cooper’s Chase.” 

Osman said: “To have two such extraordinary actors contribute toward The Thursday Murder Club series is such an honour. I loved every second of Lesley’s narration, and now I can’t wait for you to hear Fiona’s take on the Club—listeners, you are in for a treat.” 

The Bullet That Missed will publish on 15th September and is available to pre-order now!