If you want to read a cosy story about happy families, then look elsewhere.

But I urge you to pick a copy of Sarah Stovell's first novel, Mothernight, because it's a guaranteed page turner. This alarming tale focuses on 17-year-old literature-loving Leila, who spends most of her time at a boarding school on the south coast.

The lonely teenager seeks solace in an "improper relationship" with fellow pupil Olivia, and invites her to stay for the summer holidays. But home is certainly not sweet for Leila, and as the novel progresses we learn more about her traumatic past.

Her mother died in a car crash when she was five, then four years later her stepmother Katherine's baby dies suddenly.

Why does Katherine keep Leila away from the family home and who is responsible for poor little Alfie's death?

As the novel features several narrators, it is difficult to work out who is telling the truth. One critic said the novel was like Kate Atkinson crossed with Alice Sebold, while another described the debut as reminiscent of Helen Dunmore or Julie Myerson.

At times, the subject matter is almost too disturbing to bear, but once you have started reading, it's impossible to turn away.

How did Sarah, 30, a "normal" girl who attended Theale Green Comprehensive School near Reading, and then Henley College, dream up this nightmare scenario?

"I read mostly literary fiction and I never read cheerful books," the author told The Guide.

"I think the characters for the story came first. It's not a book for children but I'm sure some teenagers could handle it.

"I am now writing my second novel, Heartwood, and lots of people die in it. I try to stay fairly objective and don't get too involved emotionally."

Heartwood starts in 1949 and is the story of a girl who is kidnapped from her native Africa, taken to the USA and sold to a Missouri farmer.

The novel opens at the end of the story - she is in prison, waiting to be hanged, as she has been convicted of murdering her master.

This alarming synopsis might frighten off some readers but those gripped by Mothernight are sure to seek out a copy.

Sarah, who lives in Benson, near Wallingford, said she was delighted that her storytelling skills have already been recognised by the Arts Council, which last week gave her a £5,000 grant so she can spend more time writing, instead of working in an antiquarian bookshop in Henley.

When she is not writing, she likes to go for walks in the countryside or take holidays in Yorkshire or Cornwall.

In her travel bag there will probably be copies of her favourite books, the disturbing Bronte classic Wuthering Heights, Toni Morrison's Beloved, plus her all-time favourite King Lear.

Sarah will be talking about Mothernight at Mostly Books in Stert Street, Abingdon, on Tuesday, July 29.

Call the store on 01235 525880 or visit the website mostly-books.co.uk Mothernight is published by Snowbooks, price £7.99.