The Gathering Storm is just over 800 pages long, but don’t let that put you off, it’s historical fiction at its best. It’s such an incredible piece ofThe Gathering Storm is just over 800 pages long, but don’t let that put you off, it’s historical fiction at its best. It’s such an incredible piece of writing, with such a powerful plot you just fly through the pages. This is the first book in the Sturmtaucher Trilogy, which follows two families living in Germany. The Kästners, a prominent Military family, and their domestic Jewish staff the Nussbaums.
The Gathering Storm explores the years leading up to WW2, a time of uncertainty as Hitler and his party rise to power. As the persecution of Jews grows, the storm gathers momentum and the two families lives will change for ever. The Nussbaums, like millions of Jews face uncertainty, fear, and hatred of the worse kind. The Kästners once a close family are divided by their opposing views on the policies and laws implemented by Nazi Germany and the extermination of those seen to be Untermenschen (“sub-humans”)
The attention to detail in this book is incredible it’s obvious the author has thoroughly researched his subject, leaving no stone unturned, rich in detail Alan Jones brings one of the darkest periods of history to life. The characters are exceptional well developed, complex, fully rounded, and lifelike, you become invested in their story as you follow their harrowing journey. This isn’t a light read by any means and nor should it be as it’s based on historical facts that at times seem incomprehensible. It’s a story that’s tragic, desperately sad in parts, but there are bittersweet moments filled with hope and joy.
It was interesting to read The Gathering Storm from both families perspective, as they both faced very different challenges, hardships and heartache. I liked the fact that story begins in the lead up to the Second World War, so the reader feels part of both families journey from the very beginning. It was horrifying to read about the gradual erosion of the Jews rights, and the propaganda the Nazi’s spread like poison. This book was such an incredible, outstanding read, the character’s, the attention to detail, a powerful storyline, it’s definitely a book that will stay with me for a long time to come. The Gathering Storm has to be one of my top reads this year, and I can’t wait to read the next two books in the series. Highly recommended....more
WOW M W Craven has truly surpassed himself. There’s not many authors who can write a crime series and make each book better than the last, but that’s WOW M W Craven has truly surpassed himself. There’s not many authors who can write a crime series and make each book better than the last, but that’s the case here, Dead Ground is an imaginative, all-consuming read that’s not be missed if you consider yourself to be a crime thriller lover. Craven always comes trumps and delivers a plot that’s innovative, and veers towards the dark side, but it’s the characters that make this series unforgettable. Poe and Tilly are the modern day Batman and Robin!
The relationship between the dynamic duo Poe and Tilly is stronger than ever. Their unique personalities compliment each other perfectly. Poe is complex, and charismatic, whereas the wonderful socially awkward Tilly is naïve, and brutally honest. The dialogue between the couple is charming and full of humour, but it’s these moments that add light to the darkness of the plot. They are both such fabulous depicted, compelling characters they are one of the reasons this series is a must read for me. As to the plot, all you need to know is in the book description, as I don’t want to give anything away but I will say it’s devilishly clever and intricately plotted, with more twist and turns than the proverbial roller coaster.
Twisted Lies is the 14th book in series, at this point in a series I have normally lost interest, the excitement you get when you pick up a new book iTwisted Lies is the 14th book in series, at this point in a series I have normally lost interest, the excitement you get when you pick up a new book in the series has long gone. But that’s not the case here, because once again Angela Marsons has written another stellar episode in the ‘Kim Stone’ series, it’s gripping, intense and just as compelling as previous books in this much loved series.
The plot follows two threads: there’s Kim’s investigation into a series of victims who are horrifically tortured prior to their deaths, and then there’s the upcoming retrial of an abusive husband who has killed his wife. The latter is being covered by Kim’s adversary and thorn in her side reporter Tracy Frost. Although Kim much to her dismay develops a grudging respect for Frost.
Another reason this series is such a success is the characters, the author has created a ‘real life’ team, that feel like old friends as the series has developed I’ve laughed and cried with them, been a witness to their troubles in their personal and working life’s, and felt their every emotion.
I love the camaraderie between the members of Kim’s team, the banter, the way they torment each other in a way that only close friends can, It’s the wisecracks between Kim and her team that add a dose of humour to counterbalance a dark and gristly plot.
Twisted Lies is probably one of the darkest and most gruesome books in the series, just the way I like them, and I admit there were a couple of macabre scenes that made even me grimace! Gruesome crime scenes, a fast-paced investigation, a mystery steeped in suspense, Angela Marson has combined all the ingredients every crime thriller lover looks for in a read, mixed them up and created an exciting and gripping read that will keep the reader on tenterhooks. Highly recommend. ...more
Repressed is the fifth book in The Missing Children Case Files, and it’s a series that’s not to be missed if you consider yourself to be a fan of crimRepressed is the fifth book in The Missing Children Case Files, and it’s a series that’s not to be missed if you consider yourself to be a fan of crime thrillers. As we grow one book closer to learning the truth about Emma’s sister Anna’s disappearance as a child, the suspense is growing at every turn of the page. I should mention that this is a hard-hitting series that deals with some tough themes, trafficking, grooming and abuse, but the author shows great sensitivity and there aren’t any descriptions that are explicit.
The latest book tells Zara’s story, abducted as a nine years old, and found two years later. Thirty-five years later repressed memories surface, and with Emma’s help Zara hopes to find some closure. Emma believes Zara’s story hides clues to the identity of a high-ranking gang of pedophiles, as well as answers to her own sister’s disappearance. It’s clear that as Emma moves closer to the truth, she is in danger and this adds a sense of foreboding to the tale. This isn’t a fast-paced read by any means, but this isn’t a negative. The author teases the reader with titbits that could lead to what really happened to Anna.
As each book ends, the tension and suspense gain momentum, leaving you desperate for the next book in the series. The beauty of this series is the ongoing mystery surrounding Anna’s disappearance, Readers of this series are desperate to know what happened to her, is she dead? Has she made a new life for herself? Is she still a victim of trafficking? I have so many questions that I hope M A Hunter is going to answer in the last book in the series Exposed. Addictive, compelling and original, Repressed made for another excellent read. Highly recommended
4.5 ⭐️ Discarded is the fourth instalment in an unmissable crime series featuring investigative journalist, and bestselling real crime author Emma Hun4.5 ⭐️ Discarded is the fourth instalment in an unmissable crime series featuring investigative journalist, and bestselling real crime author Emma Hunter. Emma doesn’t get an easy ride this time round, as well as her ongoing search for her sister Anna, a nine-year-old girl has gone missing. Eerily the case has many similarities to Anna’s disappearance two decades earlier. This is a hard-hitting, gritty series that deals with some difficult and potentially traumatising themes, but I should point out the author shows great sensitivity and there aren’t any descriptions that are explicit.
Each book in the series feels darker than the last and Discarded is the most hard-hitting in the series so far. The main and ongoing theme running through all these books is Anna’s disappearance, each book takes the reader one step closer to finding out what happened to her. This book is hard-hitting as it reveals the monsters who hide in plain sight. It also tells the heartbreaking and horrifying story of the victims that have been taken and find themselves in the clutches of a paedophile ring.
This series is such a brilliant read, and it’s incredible to think the author has written the whole series in just over a year, it’s obvious he has put a lot of effort into Anna’s story It’s been exceptionally well-thought-out, with an intriguing plot that combines suspense, tension and lashes of mystery. This series is turning out to be nerve-shredding M.A. Hunter is leading the reader a merry dance before we find out what happened actually happened to Anna, but thats what makes these books such an addictive read. Discarded ends on a HUGE cliffhanger which leaves me impatiently to wait for the last two books in the series. Highly recommended.
Isolated is the second Missing Children Case Files book and is just as original and engaging as the first. This book could be read as a stand-alone, bIsolated is the second Missing Children Case Files book and is just as original and engaging as the first. This book could be read as a stand-alone, but if you are anything like me I prefer to start a series from the beginning, and there is a continuous thread that follows Emma’s ongoing investigation into her sister’s disappearance. Emma finds herself in a terrifying situation when she witnesses a young woman standing on the edge of a building she pleads with Emma to “find Sally, bring her home and tell her I am sorry”. Then she jumps and plummets to her death. What follows is an intense read as Emma investigates the mystery of what happened to Sally.
The story is told across two timelines, Emma’s investigation in the present day and the past covers the events surrounding Sally’s disappearance. Both intertwine perfectly, creating a story that’s filled with mystery, with lashes of suspense thrown into the mix. Emma is a complex character, but one I’m growing very fond of, she’s like a dog with a bone, and won’t stop asking questions until she uncovers the answers she is looking for. She carries a lot of guilt regarding her own sister’s disappearance, but her own experiences make her even more determined to find answers for the missing children’s families, her findings may not bring the missing children’s families a happy ending, but it may give them closure, something Emma is sadly no closer to finding in her own sisters disappearance.
The reason I’m enjoying this series so much is this isn’t a police procedure led crime thriller, it makes a refreshing change to follow the investigation from a different POV. This book felt much darker and more sinister than the first book in series. I enjoyed the misdirection and the twist and turns of this case, which we’re expertly placed to give the reader a thrilling read. The plots, characters, the writing and Emma’s backstory make this such an addictive series to read. I’m going to read the next two books in the series Discarded and Trafficked back to back, yes they really are that good! Highly recommended.
Trafficked is the third book in the Missing Children Case Files book and its my favourite book in the series YET. The plots, characters, the writing aTrafficked is the third book in the Missing Children Case Files book and its my favourite book in the series YET. The plots, characters, the writing and Emma’s backstory make this such an addictive series to read. This also happens to be the darkest book in the series, it’s gritty and hard hitting as it deals with tough subjects such as human trafficking and child abuse. However the author shows sensitively to his subject and there aren't any descriptions that are explicit.
Emma has a heart breaking back story, her sister disappeared 21 years ago and has never be found. The author teases the reader as each book produces new leads but never reaches a conclusion. And that’s what makes the series such an addictive one, as you are desperate to find out what happened to Emma’s sister. Trafficking follows the story of Aurélie LeBrun who suddenly reappears after being taken thirteen years previously. Emma is asked by Aurélie’s father to investigate her disappearance and to find whoever is responsible for the abduction. Emma is character that you can’t help but warm too, she’s determined in her quest to finding missing children.
Although Trafficked is a crime/mystery novel I was surprised at the emotion Aurélie’s story’s evokes, the author describes the emotions, the guilt, shame, anger and horror that she and her family face as her story unfolds, this not only adds depth to the story but also makes it far more credible and horrifying. Trafficked is a tense and gripping crime/mystery thriller that has you following the twists and turns with breathless anticipation in this compelling read. Highly recommended.
Imposter is the first book in the Alexander Gregory, I’m ashamed to admit this book has been on my TBR pile for ages, but now I’m sat here kicking mysImposter is the first book in the Alexander Gregory, I’m ashamed to admit this book has been on my TBR pile for ages, but now I’m sat here kicking myself, as the book made for such an excellent read. LJ Ross pulls the reader in from the off with a compelling plot and an intriguing protagonist, Forensic psychologist Doctor Alexander Gregory. Years spent working as a psychiatric nurse mean I have always been interested in the working human mind, and what trauma/experiences make a child grow up to be a cold-blooded killer. It’s not only the who? But the why? That made this book such a good read.
A community in a small town in Ireland is left shocked and devastated when a young mother is murdered. Alexander Gregory’s is called upon for his expertise in profiling to help catch the murderer. Gregory is a mysterious and complex character, he seems lonely, work being his primary focus, you can’t help but wonder if his dedication to his job means his own mental health is suffering. I felt the author only scratched the surface regarding his character, but that makes him all the more intriguing, and I’m interested to see how his character grows as the series evolves.
I really enjoy a crime thriller that’s unusual, and placing a Forensic psychologist right in the middle of the action made Imposter that more entertaining to read. It made a refreshing change from the usual police procedures, as you see the investigation from a very different and engaging POV. The book’s location is fitting to the plot, a small town where everyone trusts each other, but the facts suggest the killer is local, and no one is above suspicion. Alongside Gregory you scrutinise each member of the community, looking for clues, waiting for someone to make a mistake. LJ Ross plays her cards close to her chest, never revealing too much, dropping subtle clues which add to the tension of the read.
The killer hides in plain sight and it’s not obvious to the reader who they are until the last chapters, but part of the fun was trying to work it out. I really enjoyed this book thanks to a skillfully written plot with so many potential suspects. Highly recommended. There is an upside to reading a series late, it means I can now binge books two and three books in the series without the normal wait!
Ransomed marks the beginning of a New crime series by a new author to me M. A. Hunter. The series follows Emma Hunter, an investigative journalist whoRansomed marks the beginning of a New crime series by a new author to me M. A. Hunter. The series follows Emma Hunter, an investigative journalist who is known for her bestselling expose detailing historic abuse of children at a home for Wayward Boys. Emma is approached by the grandfather of a missing child asking her to look into the details surrounding his granddaughters disappearance one year ago. Despite her initial reluctance to get involved, Emma works with DC Jack Serravitz to review and recreate the investigation. Both have complicated histories which give them reason to solve the case. Although a child’s disappearance isn’t an original theme, it did make a change to have a journalist as the heart of the investigation as it meant Emma wasn’t bound by rules and red tape.
I liked Emma who has her own demons still haunted by the disappearance of her older sister twenty years ago, her disappearance is the thing that drives Emma to find missing children. As a person she carries a burden of guilt with her, that make her determined, resourceful and compassionate. I am hoping at some point in the series the author will tackle Emma’s sisters story head on. The plot is told across two timelines ‘then’ and ‘now’ which fit perfectly together. Ransomed is a strong start to what I believe will be an excellent series.
It’s not often my heart races from the first chapter of a book, but Time Is Running Out opens with a shocker of a chapter that left me stunned, after It’s not often my heart races from the first chapter of a book, but Time Is Running Out opens with a shocker of a chapter that left me stunned, after reading the second chapter which I have renamed ‘OMFG’ I think my heart literally stopped! and the shocks kept on coming from there on in. Michael woods has written a blinder of a book and it’s the BEST and the most shocking book in the Matilda Darke series YET. This book literally broke me and left me an emotional, snotty mess, something I definitely wasn’t expecting! And that’s a testament to the authors’ incredible writing skills. He has created characters that you have come to love, you feel their pain, bewilderment, and fear.
Without giving too much away, a lone gunman goes on a deadly rampage around Sheffield, leaving a trail of death and destruction in his wake. Carefully planned, meticulous, ever detail of his plan carefully scrutinised. The gunman has a heart of granite, he’s about to leave his mark on the world and change Matilda and her team’s lives forever. This is the case that pushes Matilda’s team to the brink, every case previous to this now seems like foreplay. It was distressing to see the investigation team in a different light, gone is the bravado, and the self-confidence, each officer is at breaking point, the descriptions of their personal turmoil and their mental health as they deal with the case is desperately sad.
I got so caught up in the storyline I found myself in tears numerous times, it’s such an emotional read, something you wouldn’t expect from a crime thriller. It’s clear the author has put his heart and soul in to writing this book, the scenes, the emotions, the violence, I’m not normally a ‘nervous’ reader but bang went my resolution to stop biting my nails! Yes, the plot really is that intense! The author has created the most horrifying plot, but it also feels credible, especially considering how many times you hear reports of a sniper going on the rampage in the name of religion or revenge. I became more anxious for the investigation team as the plot played out. Michael Wood has created a story that’s thick with tension, riveting, heartbreaking, and disturbing, but my god it’s a hell of a read and thanks to the author it’s my ‘first book hangover of the year’. Michael Wood has a lot to answer for, as I’m not sure I’m ready to pick up another book yet! Highly, highly recommended
This is the fifth book in the DCI Kett series that I have read, and so far I have thoroughly enjoyed every book. I’m happy to report Run Rabbit Run isThis is the fifth book in the DCI Kett series that I have read, and so far I have thoroughly enjoyed every book. I’m happy to report Run Rabbit Run is another excellent addition to an unmissable series, especially if you enjoy crime thrillers that are dark, gritty, and intense. Run Rabbit Run is another intricately woven, hard-hitting, read and It’s definitely a series I would start from the beginning, it’s such a brilliant series you don’t want to miss out and Kett has a horrifying back story that will make more sense if you read the books in order.
Alex Smith doesn’t give Kett an easy ride in this book, this case is personal! When someone starts brutally murdering the criminals that he’s put behind bars, and the ones that he wasn’t able to catch, it appears there’s a vigilante on the loose. It’s not looking good because this killer isn’t just coming after the bad guys. He’s coming after Kett, too! The thing that made this book such an exciting read is the way the author has incorporated characters and an ongoing theme from the previous books into the plot of Run Rabbit Run.
Kett is a character that I love, he’s everything you would wish for in a fictional Detective, he’s determined and driven, not afraid to break the rules. His desire to seek justice and put the perpetrators away for good means that more often than not he will risk his own life to save others, which leads to a whole host of problems! He’s also devoted to his family and the scenes and dialogue between him and his three young daughters lighten the mood of this intense crime thriller. Another character worth a mention is superintendent Clare. The relationship between him and Kett is brilliantly written, and his one liners are worthy of a standup act.
One of the joys of this book is that it is nigh on impossible to guess the perpetrator, it could be one of Kent’s friends, family, or a colleague or one of his long list of enemies! Alex Smith keeps you guessing until the final few chapters. Run Rabbit Run is a relentless, compulsive thrill a minute crime thriller, that’s impossible to put down. One of the reason I love this series so much is each plot has been unpredictable and there’s nothing I like more than the element of surprise. This series goes from strength to strength. If you consider yourself to be a crime thriller lover, then this is a series not to be missed.
Whip Crack is the fourth book in the DCI Kett series that I have read, and I’m loving this series. The storyline is about four teenagers who disappearWhip Crack is the fourth book in the DCI Kett series that I have read, and I’m loving this series. The storyline is about four teenagers who disappear from a small seaside resort, and so begins a particularly sinister and exciting read from Alex Smith. This book is so creepy, the crimes committed by a psychopath are horrifying, there’s a genuine sense of evil emanating from the pages as the killer plays his twisted mind games with Kett and his team.
Whip Crack is another intricately woven, hard-hitting, read and filled with black humour, which complements the plot. It’s definitely a series I would start from the beginning, A: because it’s so good and B: because Kett has a horrifying back story that will make more sense if you read the books in order.
Although the crimes are alarming, the author always gives the reader some light relief by incorporating some humour into his work. The dialogue between him and his colleagues is full of banter, and the scenes between Kett and his three small daughters lighten the mood of this dark crime thriller.
The reason I love this series so much is each plot has been unpredictable and there’s nothing I like more than the element of surprise, sadly something that’s lacking in many crime series. Whip Crack is a bleak, intense, chilling read that sent shivers down my spine on more than one occasion. This series goes from strength to strength, and if you consider yourself to be a crime thriller lover, then it’s a series not to be missed.
I have been impatiently awaiting the fourth book in the DI Amy Winters series, Flesh And Blood, as it’s one of my favourite crime series. If you havenI have been impatiently awaiting the fourth book in the DI Amy Winters series, Flesh And Blood, as it’s one of my favourite crime series. If you haven’t started the series yet, it’s one that’s best started from the beginning as Amy has such a fascinating backstory, I promise you it will be time well spent! Was it worth the wait? It’s a HUGE fat ‘yes’. I will not say much about the plot as I don’t want to give away spoilers, but Amy doesn’t get an easy ride in this instalment that’s for sure, not only does she have a complex investigation to deal with, but her serial killer mother has been released from prison. The plot is complex, dark, and ominous, it’s one of those “heart in your mouth” crime thrillers.
This is a series that has much to offer the crime book junkie, although I always enjoy the police procedure element of the authors book, I have really loved learning more about Amy and her family, especially Lillian her twisted serial killer mother (I’m hoping at some point Lillian will get a whole book to herself). Amy’s team is another fascinating part of this series, I’m appreciating the complexities of their relationships within the team, they feel like an authentic team with their banter and their own personal issues.
Caroline Mitchell is one of my favourite authors for a very good reason, I consistently find her plots imaginative, she grabs the reader’s attention with an intriguing prologue, and then takes the reader on a journey to a dark place where monsters hid in plain site. There are the usual twist and turns you would expect in a crime thriller, with a few surprises along the way that keep the reader firmly on the edge of their seat. I enjoy a plot that veers towards the darker side of crime and Flesh And Blood is certainly dark, uncomfortable and at points desperately sad. I really appreciated the way the author left a trail of subtle clues that allow the reader to become an amateur detective and feel part of the investigation. Although this isn’t my favourite book in the series, it is another stellar addition to the series,
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