Adam Croft's Rutland-based novel What Lies Beneath named by Barnes and Noble as one of best indie e-books

Adam Croft’s Rutland-based novel has bagged a spot on an American bookseller’s list of top reads.

What Lies Beneath, which was released in July this year, was named by Barnes and Noble as one of the best indie e-books of the year for its well written plot and characters.

Adam said: “It’s brilliant. I’ve actually had books in it for three years in a row.

“Something held up more and everyone embraced how much was put into this series in particular. It’s a great way to end the year.”

During the past few weeks Adam has been inundated with orders for his books with people wanting to buy them as Christmas presents as well as readers of the Barnes and Noble’s list.

“It’s topped off a great year with Walkers Bookshops saying it’s the best selling book they’ve ever had in the 50 years of trading,” he said.

“It’s five times more than the books in the next place.”

He added that his book has been well received by two different groups; people who know the Rutland area and people from further afield who are drawn to visit the county after reading.

Both What Lies Beneath, and its sequel On Borrowed Time, released in October, were also well received by people living in the area with Walkers bookshops in Oakham and Stamford having to restock many times.

But the tier rules may affect the release of the third book in the series, which was planned for early next year.

Adam, who lives in tier 4 Bedfordshire, said: “I had blocked a date in mind but I’m wondering if we will be out of lockdown.

“It’s probably best to wait until shops are open and lockdown is lifted to make sure people can buy from a local shop as I would rather small businesses get something out of it.”