HAMPSHIRE children and adults suffering from life-limiting illnesses are set to benefit from a book released by a number of best-selling authors. 

International crime author LJ Ross is one of a number of writers who have contributed to the Dark Mind anthology being sold in aid of Sophie’s Appeal and Hospice UK. 

Sophie’s Appeal was set up in memory of Sophie Barringer from Eastleigh who died of cancer at the age of six in December 2004.

The little girl underwent chemotherapy and a major operation where her heart was stopped so surgeons could remove tumours which had spread to her heart, liver and left kidney - sadly Sophie was unable to beat the cancer.

Since her death her parents Lin and Mike Barringer have been tirelessly fundraising to provide support, treatment and research funding for childhood cancer.

Hospice UK on the other hand helps provide care care for people coming to the end of their life, no matter who they are.

LJ said: “I’m absolutely humbled by the work of Hospice UK and Sophie’s parents who are working so hard to create such an incredible legacy for their little girl. 

“I’m thrilled to be able to help in a small way by writing a short story especially for this anthology. I hope as many people as possible get a copy because not only is it for the most amazing causes, but there are some great reads in there.”

LJ’s short story, The Shepherd’s Bothy, tells the eerie tale of how Ryan and his sergeant end up marooned in a remote bunkhouse somewhere in the Coquet Valley after a severe snow storm, walking in on a murder in progress.

The anthology also includes the work of fellow crime writers Lisa Hall and Louise Jensen.

LJ has sold more than half a million copies and has now released four DCI Ryan thrillers in less than two years, each of which have shot to the top of the Amazon bestsellers list.

DCI Ryan first appeared in Holy Island, which knocked Paula Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train off the top spot in the charts. That was followed up with Sycamore Gap, Heavenfield and Angel.

Dark Minds is available in paperback at £8.99 through Amazon, Waterstones online, Kobo and Nook.