Lisa Gardiner is one of my favourite American crime authors, I always know when I pick up one of her books I’m in for a thrilling read, and When You SLisa Gardiner is one of my favourite American crime authors, I always know when I pick up one of her books I’m in for a thrilling read, and When You See Me the authors latest offering was certainly worth the wait. Intricately plotted, with fascinating characters,and a shocking plot I think it’s one of her best books yet. For me a good crime thriller has to have a dark edge, check, it’s got to lean towards the gory side, check, and the plot has to be one that keeps me on the edge of my seat, check and guess what? this books fits the bill to a tee. When You See Me is the eleventh book in the Detective DD Warren series, it’s not crucial to have read the whole series, as the author gives you enough details about Flora’s background for you to be able to follow the story. Fans of well-plotted and researched mysteries, with complex, ever evolving characters will enjoy this read, it’s a well written crime thriller that features characters that are well rounded and unforgettable. ...more
Mel Sherratt’s back! with Liar Liar the third instalment in the DS Grace Allendale series. As the title suggests there are so many lies, and half trutMel Sherratt’s back! with Liar Liar the third instalment in the DS Grace Allendale series. As the title suggests there are so many lies, and half truths buried within this story, Grace has her work cut out that’s for sure! The book opens with a shocking scene when a young boy called Tyler falls from a balcony in a block of flats. From the start of the investigation it’s apparent the boy’s parents are being evasive, their story doesn’t quite ring true, but why would they lie? Did Tyler fall over the railings? Or is there a far more sinister reason behind his accident? The author leads the reader a merry dance through a tangled web of lies and deceit. As I mentioned this is the third book in the series, however Liar Liar could be read as a standalone, although if you are anything like me I prefer to read books in order! It’s won’t be any hardship as it’s shaping up to be a cracking crime series.
For the residents of Harrison House there’s a familiar mantra around the investigation ‘I never saw nothing, ‘I never heard anything’ seems to be the favourite. Residents don’t trust the police, hell they don’t even trust their neighbours! Living day in, day out, alongside crime, the residents have their own code, ‘you never tell the police anything’, after all no criminal wants to be labelled a ‘grass’! The book alternates between chapters that follow one of the main characters past, and the present day investigation, sometimes I find that dual time lines get over complicated, but that wasn’t the case with a Liar Liar, but it’s these past chapters that provide the reader with an insight into one of the characters, and their motivation for the choices they make.
Liar Liar’s focus is set firmly On the back story of its characters, Grace has a much smaller part to play in this book, which worked really well, as the main plot wasn’t overshadowed by police procedures and the investigation. Thinking about it Liar Liar felt very different to the last two books in the series, but I mean that in a good way as it’s great to see an author not stick to a specific formula for each book. One of Mel Sherratt’s strengths is her capacity to delve into the darkest corner of the criminal world and create unlikable, violent and authentic ‘shady’ characters. The tension ramps up as the lies begin to unravel, and more crimes are committed. Liar Liar made for a gritty, hard-hitting read, and although I wouldn’t consider this a fast-paced read, there’s plenty to keep the crime lover eagerly turning the pages....more
I have been impatiently awaiting Dead Wrong, the second book in the DC Maggie Jamieson series, it seems like forever since I read Dead Inside by authoI have been impatiently awaiting Dead Wrong, the second book in the DC Maggie Jamieson series, it seems like forever since I read Dead Inside by author Noelle Holten. The author knows how to draw the reader in from the off, even more so when you realise one of Raven’s victims is named after you! I would forgive you for thinking this could sway my review, but you would be dead wrong! (See what I did there?). Personally I think Dead Wrong is even better than the first book in the series, it’s what I would describe as a ‘heart-pounding, page-turner with a dark, gritty heart’.
Raven, admitted he killed three women and is serving a life sentence for his crimes, but fast forward to present time and body parts of his said victims start turning up, so he must be innocent right? And Raven makes an appeal to the courts to be set free, so begins a nightmare for DC Maggie Jamieson’s, as she attempts to solve the case once and for all. There’s nothing I enjoy more than a crime thriller that features a chilling but intriguing serial killer, and Raven is one such character, he lacks remorse, he’s callous, a master of manipulation, and a pathological liar. The heart of the plot focuses on Raven toying with Maggie, is he lying? Or is he mentally ill? Was he coerced by Maggie, admitting to crimes he didn’t commit? So many questions, but for those of us who love playing the amateur detective, it’s the perfect crime read to get those brain cells working.
Hallelujah! DC Maggie Jamieson isn’t your standard stereotype you often find in a crime thriller, she’s not an alcoholic, nor is her character bogged down by personal problems or a shady past which makes a refreshing change. That doesn’t mean Maggie lacks depth, on the contrary her character is continuing to develop, she’s relentless in her pursuit for the truth, committed, and has literally no personal life, I’m sure there are a lot of DC’s who can relate to that! It’s obvious the author has an incredible insight into the justice system and the way different agencies work together, which adds an authentic feel to the plot, I find some crime thrillers lack this vital ingredient, mostly because authors have relied heavily on research, rather than personal experiences.
Dismembered victims turning up in pieces made for a gristly read, but these scenes are paramount to the plot, and add a profound sense of tension to the overall plot. Like any good crime thriller there are many read herrings, and well-plotted twists, and that ending! Let’s just say it will leave readers desperate for the next book in the series. Noelle Holten’s writing goes from strength to strength, her writings bold and confident, she has a vivid imagination, her plots are exciting and gripping. If ever there was someone who was born to write crime thrillers, it’s this author. Highly recommended to anyone who loves a crime thriller.
The Queen of gangland thrillers Kimberley Chambers is back! With one of my most anticipated reads of 2020 Queenie. Once again the author has deliveredThe Queen of gangland thrillers Kimberley Chambers is back! With one of my most anticipated reads of 2020 Queenie. Once again the author has delivered on every level, it’s gritty, wickedly entertaining, and brilliantly written. I’m delighted to say ‘Queenie is one of the best books I’ve had the pleasure to read this year’. For fans of the Butlers series, Queenie takes the reader back to the very beginning, all our favourite characters are here, Queenie, Viv, Albie, Vinnie, Roy and Michael and so many more. We learn how Queenie born into hardship and abuse becomes part of one of the most feared families in the East End, and what a story she has to tell, warts and all!
When I first started reading Queenie it seemed like I was meeting up with old friends but their younger versions. The book begins during the 1930s, Queenie’s early childhood is marred by tragic events, events that shape her into the feisty matriarch we all love. Queenie wants a better life for herself, one where money is no object and people fear her family. When she meets Albie Butler she’s satisfied he can give her the life she craves and deserves, but Albie is weak and has no backbone, so Queenie looks to her three young sons, determined they won’t be weak like their father. By hook or by crook Vinnie, Roy and Michael will rule the East End, making sure The Butlers name becomes an East End Legend.
Kimberly Chambers is one of those rare authors who has a gift for creating colourful characters, that are larger than life, you feel you know them inside out, and despite their flaws (they all have plenty of those), a small part of you can’t help but fall in love with everyone of the Butlers. it’s a testament to the authors writing that she is able to make you laugh and cry at their antics, love and hate them, all in the space of a few minutes!
As you would expect the dialogue between the characters is as usual spot on full of humour, sadness, and sometimes anger, it gives the reader a wonderful insight into the Butler’s life, like many families they are protective of their own (most of the time anyway!) they argue, fall out, make up and fall out again! But it’s this that makes them credible characters. Another thing that’s amazing about this authors writing is her attention to the small details, whatever era she is writing about she brings it to life with descriptions of the fashions and music trends, they transport you bang into the East End.
You may have noticed I have been vague with the plot details, but that’s because I want everyone who reads this book to enjoy every page of this gripping story. Queenie is 512 pages long, but it doesn’t feel like it, there’s so much going on to keep the reader eagerly turning the pages, it’s the type of book you just don’t want to end. Queenie has all the ingredients the authors legion of fans have come to love and I’m sure they won’t be disappointed, it has shocks, tender moments, it’s gritty, and authentic. Kimberly Chambers has yet again written another amazing page turner, and one that will no doubt be hitting the bestseller spot. Highly recommended.
Having read the whole series of ‘Matilda Darke’ books, which I loved by the way, I was delighted to hear that Michael Wood was publishing a novella ViHaving read the whole series of ‘Matilda Darke’ books, which I loved by the way, I was delighted to hear that Michael Wood was publishing a novella Victim Of Innocence.I’m not a huge fan of short stories I’m afraid, they often feel rushed or lack the depth of characters and plot. What this story lacked in pages, it more than made up with content. The author doesn’t waste anytime and soon Matilda and her team are tracking down a murderer and rapist. I devoured this book in one hugely satisfying sitting.
I found this glimpse into Matilda’s past intriguing as it added another dimension to her character. For such a short story I was surprised at just how much the author packed in, there’s intrigue and plenty of suspense. The author doesn’t waste anytime in getting to the heart of the plot.If you haven’t read any books by Michael Wood this short story is well worth a read as you get a feel for Maltilda’s character as well as her workmates and other characters who play important part in her life. If you are already a fan of the author then I’m sure you will love this short story, and if you haven’t read any books by the author it’s a great introduction to a ‘must read’ crime series. ...more
The Six Stories series by Matt Wesolowski is one of my favourite crime series EVER! It’s deliciously dark, extremely imaginative, each book has been bThe Six Stories series by Matt Wesolowski is one of my favourite crime series EVER! It’s deliciously dark, extremely imaginative, each book has been beyond riveting. Beast like the other books in the series features modern day themes, combined with darkest folklore, and yet again the author’s vivid imagination propels the reader into a plot that’s marked by an unrelenting bleakness, and yet Beast makes for an all consuming read.
Six Stories is precisely that, Six Stories told from the perspective of six witnesses narrated in the form of pod casts with online investigating journalist Paul King. I’m not going to rehash the plot details, I think the tagline on the book sums Beast up perfectly “A frozen girl, a haunted town, a deadly challenge, six stories, which one is true?”. What follows is a tense, horrifying read that’s darker than the dead of night.
The author has an unique ability to create the perfect setting, Tankerville Tower in the small town of Ergarth is a character darkly atmospheric, and creeping, it’s a place shrouded in folklore tales of bloodthirsty vampires, a place where evil lies. Even the climate is the perfect backdrop for this book, set during the wake of ‘The Beast from the East’, with its plummeting temperatures, the biting winds, it gives the sense that Ergarth is inhospitable, a place you wouldn’t want to visit for the fear of what you might encounter.
Beast is very much a modern day tale, and one that highlights, a phenomenon that’s very real, society’s need for validation and attention through social media. The author paints a bleak and disquieting picture of the negative side of social media, it’s disturbing and frighteningly credible. As each pod cast ends, trepidation and dread grows, the darkness of the book pulls you in, holding you in its clutches until the final page.
If there’s one thing I love about this series, it’s the author’s ability to write a book that doesn’t fit one particular genre, Beast is no different it has components of horror, thriller and crime with a modern day twist, it’s impossible to second guess where the plot is leading, which for me made this such a memorising read. Each book Matt Wesolowski writes is imaginative, captivating, and cleverly constructed, this is an author who doesn’t rest on his laurels each book is as good if not better than the last. Matt Wesolowski has once again written the epitome of a page-turner. Highly, highly recommended.
I have been (im)patiently awaiting the fifth instalment of the Matilda Darke crime series, as hand on heart I can say ‘ I absolutely love this series’I have been (im)patiently awaiting the fifth instalment of the Matilda Darke crime series, as hand on heart I can say ‘ I absolutely love this series’. When I enjoy a series so much I always worry the book won’t be as good as previous books in the series, but I’m delighted to report that any worries I had were unjustified, in fact I would say The Murder House is the author’s best book yet, it’s dark, erring on the gory side with an intriguing plot that will leave you blurry eyed as you forsake sleep for ‘just another chapter or ten!’
Give Michael Wood his due he knows how to get the reader’s attention from the off, the first chapter opens with a wedding and ends in a bloodbath when three members of the same family are murdered in the most appalling way. On first appearance the victims appear to be the ‘perfect’ family, pillars of the local community, they regularly fundraised and contributed to local causes, so why would someone want them dead? What possible motive could they have? I must admit rather like Matilda and her team I had no idea!
For me a crime thriller is never more satisfying, than when you have a list of suspects as long as your arm and the author makes it’s almost impossible to guess the culprit, for me it makes the read that more thrilling as you try to search for clues, hold on to the suspects every word looking for the slightest slip up. I felt like a detective (admittedly an amateur one!) working alongside Matilda to capture the murderer, each character came under scrutiny.
As for Matilda I love the way her character is evolving, she’s strong and determined and yet she has a sense of vulnerability mostly due to a cold case that haunts her, Matilda feels she failed missing child, Carl Meagan, who was never found. The case is a disturbing one and one which has a big impact on the team, when you add in budget cuts, and personal issues you realise this is a team that could buckle as they are tested to the limits. These are characters with feelings, real emotions, and depth which made the read that more authentic. As the case gains momentum, the tension intensifies urging the reader onwards, through red herrings and misdirection.
Although this book could be read as a stand-alone I would urge you to start at the beginning, just because this is such a cracking series, it would be a shame if you missed out on the four previous books. I almost shrieked in frustration at Michael Wood as he winds up the The Murder House with the biggest teaser yet! Such an ingenious ploy as now I’m left counting down the days to the next book in the series.The Murder House is fast-paced read ‘whodunnit’, that I would happily recommend to all crime thriller lovers. ...more
I have eagerly been waiting to get my hands on a copy of All The Rage by Cara Hunter, as it’s definitely one of my all-time favourite police procedureI have eagerly been waiting to get my hands on a copy of All The Rage by Cara Hunter, as it’s definitely one of my all-time favourite police procedure/crime thriller series. The author has a unique way of presenting her story (more about that in a while) which make her books such an exciting read. Although All The Rage could be read as a stand-alone, I would urge you to start at the beginning because this really is an addictive crime series, and you will have a better understanding of the history of the characters.
The book description doesn’t give much away, and I’m not going to spend time on rehashing or expanding on the plot details. One of the strengths of this book is DI Fawley and his merry band of team members, each one has grown as the series has evolved. As with any good team, the team members are a diverse bunch, their focus is set firmly on solving the case. As the investigation intensifies Fawley and his team seem no nearer to obtaining a breakthrough in the case, the team’s frustration is obvious. In this book Fawley is pivotal to the investigation, and we see a different side to the DI as the plot evolves.
Unusual in a book, there are no chapters which some readers may find strange, but as there are no lulls or breaks in the story, it keeps the reader’s attention firmly on the investigation. One of the things that make this series such an original read, is the author’s use of social media, we are privy to the chat rooms on the dark web, and the poison they spout (which made for an uncomfortable read). There are also tweets, from key board warriors and sympathetic members of the public, which serve to make the story feel current. Cara Hunter also incorporates eye witnesses’ statements, psychiatric reports, court transcripts, and suspect interviews to make the investigation even more authentic.
Some of the crimes committed, coupled with certain subject matters, made this book a disquieting read but I appreciated the author’s sensitive handling of the plot lines. Like every book in the series so far the plot is packed full of twists which made it impossible to predict what would come next, in fact at one point I had one of those ‘I never saw that coming’ moments’, I love it when an author manages to shock me. Red herrings are perfectly placed, tension increases tenfold, and remains that way, right up to the shocking conclusion. Cara Hunter has away of writing that immediately draws you in, when you add to this her unique way of including various media’s to tell a story, and Voila, you have another cracking read from Cara Hunter. Highly recommended and a MUST read for crime thriller lovers.
Robert Bryndza is a danger to my health, that’s a fact! I read Nine Elms the first instalment in a brand**This review does includes a health warning**
Robert Bryndza is a danger to my health, that’s a fact! I read Nine Elms the first instalment in a brand spanking new crime series, whilst on holiday in Greece. I became so engrossed whilst reading it I forgot to reapply my sun tan lotion and ended up with slightly sunburnt legs! Very painful let me tell you! Was Dark Elms worth a restless and uncomfortable nights sleep because of my burnt legs? You bet it was! I loved the Erika Forster series but Dark Elms takes the authors writing to a whole new level of amazing. Dark Elms ticks all the boxes for me it’s dark, gory (I grimaced at more than a couple of the authors descriptive crime scenes) and features a serial killer who will send shivers down your spine, if Hannibal Lecter gave you nightmares, be prepared for a few disturbed nights!
I’m sure lovers of the Erika Forster series will be wondering how the author could top this series, rest assured if Nine Elms is anything to go by, this will be a hell of a series. I instantly connected with Kate, the complexity of her characters lies deeply seated in her dreadful past, there’s an air of fragility about her, but at the same time she is determined not to let her past define her, which is easier said than done especially when her past comes back to haunt her in the most horrifying way.
Luckily for Kate she has a cast of supportive and very likeable characters to help her on her journey. As for the serial killer, there perfectly depicted, chilling, cunning and yet you can’t help but become drawn into their backstory story, its one that’s original and disturbing to say the least. As to their killing techniques Robert Bryndaza, has come up with something stomach churning (best read on an empty stomach) Without giving too much away the killer in question is surrounded by evil forces, who tap into their disturbed psyche, urging them on to commit even more horrific crimes. These evil people are in need of serious therapy, but such a brilliant combination. I won’t deny I found them fascinating, but at the same time I felt sickened by their behaviour.
I really liked the fact that Nine Elms isn’t a regular police procedural novel, Kate has the skill set of a police detective but isn’t hindered by procedures or led by rules and regulations, so she’s more likely to bend the rules making her unpredictable. At every turn of the page Nine Elms crackles with apprehension and a growing sense of dread, it’s a fast-paced, exhilarating read that I found impossible to put down even for a few minutes. Robert Bryndza can transport the reader to the crime scenes with vivid descriptions, that make you realise just how depraved the killer is, although some scenes are stomach churning, they never felt superfluous. Once again Robert Bryndza has confirmed why he is one of my favourite crime thriller authors EVER, Nine Elms is a cracking book and an exciting start to a compelling new series, I’m definitely looking forward to the next book and the one after that….. Highly recommend to all crime thriller lovers....more
4.5 ⭐️ As anyone who follows my blog will know I do love a crime thriller that veers towards the dark side, and One Last Prayer by Wes Markin fitted t4.5 ⭐️ As anyone who follows my blog will know I do love a crime thriller that veers towards the dark side, and One Last Prayer by Wes Markin fitted the bill perfectly, it’s brutal, gritty with more than a touch of the macabre. One Last Prayer For The Rays opens with a hell of a bang, and from that moment on the author holds you in his clutches with a gripping story, that’s shocking, gory, and so deliciously twisted
The story centres on 12-year-old Paul Ray who disappears from school, from a distance the Ray family could be seen as a generation of pig farmers, and nothing more, but delve into their murky and flawed family tree and you will find generation upon generation of depraved psychopaths, the kind that emit evil from every pore, where violence is the norm, and remorse is a word that doesn’t feature in their vocabulary! Dysfunctional doesn’t even come close to describing this family, but one things for sure their a family you won’t forget in a hurry. One Last Prayer For The Rays is a strong police procedure, fast paced read that gets darker and more tangled with each turn of the page. which made for a compulsive and thrilling read.
If you are looking for a cosy Murder mystery then this definitely isn’t the book for you, but if you’re a crime thriller whose not adverse the the occasional gory scene then this one’s definitely for you. An incredibly strong debut and one to read with the lights on. This is the first book I read by Wes Markin, but it definitely won’t be my last. ...more
The Last Widow is the ninth book featuring Will Trenton and Dr Sara Linton, who are both members of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI), they aThe Last Widow is the ninth book featuring Will Trenton and Dr Sara Linton, who are both members of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI), they also happen to be in a personal relationship. This book could easily be read as a stand-alone, but like any long running series their are aspects that you will miss out on. I’m a a huge Karin Slaughter fan and as I would expect she once again delivers a compelling, taut, chilling read. The plot is very current, making it a terrifying but all to credible read...more
Rob Ashman has done it again! he’s seriously messed with my reading schedule, when I down loaded Jaded I planned on taking a quick peek at the first pRob Ashman has done it again! he’s seriously messed with my reading schedule, when I down loaded Jaded I planned on taking a quick peek at the first page, epic fail! because before I realised it I had read the first half! I shouldn’t have expected anything less, as the author has the extraordinary ability to hook you in with a shocker of an opening, let’s just say I never realised what a bottle of red hot chilli sauce could be used for (ouch). The author really has a very twisted imagination as I’ve mentioned in previous reviews, but it means the reader should “expect the unexpected”, I like that in a read, it heightens my enjoyment tenfold if you are never sure which dark path the author will take you down next.
Roz Kray is back, but the author doesn’t give her an easy ride, she struggles to unravel a baffling case when a body washes up on the beach, DCI Dan Bagley (a nasty piece of work) is hell-bent on making her working life a misery, her private life is in turmoil. I really felt for Roz this time round, at the start of the book she is looking at a rosy future with her new boyfriend Millican, but then she suffers a personal tragedy, one that might break Roz, I’m not sure how Rob Ashman does it but somehow he always manages to gain my sympathy for what at first appear to be the most hardened killers, Billy included. Jaded has sporadic chapters from Billy’s perspective, a man who faces his own personal hell, these chapters look at his motives and the brutal world he’s become part of, I couldn’t help but find excuses for Billy’s actions, and also hoping along the way he would finally find some closure to a painful chapter of his life. Rob Ashman shares both Roz’s and Billy’s personal tragedies as the story progresses it’s these chapters that are tragic, powerful and heartbreaking.
Jaded opens with many brutal murders, and the reader is introduced to an array of characters, what at first appear to be many subplots are craftily melded together to make a heart thumping read. With themes of human trafficking, drugs, and murder incorporated into a cauldron of violence and revenge Jaded is a crime thriller that keeps the reader on tenterhooks throughout. You would be forgiving for thinking this book sounds very dark, but there are moments of light relief hidden within the pages. Although the book packs a brutal punch, it’s actually a very emotional read, somehow or other Rob Ashman has the unique ability to write the most brutal scenes but alongside them are powerful, emotional scenes that make his book such a pleasure to read.
Jaded by Rob Ashman is the fourth book in the DI Roz Kray series, personally I wouldn’t read it as a stand-alone, it’s just to good a series not to start at the beginning. If you are looking for a sedate crime thriller, then this definitely isn’t the book for you, but if you are looking for a read that’s fast-paced, brutal, with well-depicted characters, a thriller that will make your heart pound then this is definitely the book for you. Highly recommended.
I’m a huge fan of American crime thrillers especially Chris Carter’s ‘Robert Hunter’ series he deftly combines fascinating drawn characters, psychologI’m a huge fan of American crime thrillers especially Chris Carter’s ‘Robert Hunter’ series he deftly combines fascinating drawn characters, psychological terror, with nail biting plotting. Combine that with his knowledge of the intricate details of the criminal mind (the author has created some of the most fascinating and evil serial killers ever!) and it’s makes for an unmissable series. Hunting Evil is the tenth book in the Robert Hunter series, if you haven’t read this series yet I would recommend you read An Evil Mind (the 6th novel in the series) first to understand the complexities of Hunter and Lucien’s relationship.
‘Hunting Evil’ sums up this book perfectly, from the gripping first chapter where serial killer Lucien Folter escapes from a high security penitentiary, leaving a trail of carnage in his wake. Now Lucien the most prolific and dangerous serial killer the FBI had ever encountered is free. As far as Lucien is concerned Hunter’s the reason he spent three and a half years in solitary confinement, after years of careful planning he’s ready to take on his adversary Hunter in a terrifying game where there are no rules and there are no winners.
As for Hunter you can’t help but feel his frustration, his helplessness, his defeat as Lucien relentlessly plays one game after another. Hunter isn’t the cool, reserved, controlled character we’ve seen in previous books, he’s a man under immense pressure but I liked the different perspective of his character. I love a well depicted serial killer in a crime read, the more evil and wicked they are the better, and Lucien is a fascinating character, he’s someone who kills because he can, a master of psychological manipulation and deception, he sees himself as a ‘method researcher’, studying the traits and minds of psychopaths through his own crimes. Chris Carter’s background in psychology and criminal behaviour, allows him to write in such away you get an understanding of the criminal mind and the way it works. Lucien’s mind can only be described as disturbed, and that’s an understatement! his actions and thoughts sent chills down my spine, as he manipulates and calculates every move with precision.
I relished the fact Lucien’s games included questions and riddles he put to Hunter, forget ‘phone a friend’ it’s more a case of ‘get it right’ and save a life! this adds a palatable sense of tension and urgency to the overall read. Chris Carter has written a cracker of an addition to this ‘must read’ series, this is probably one of my favourite books in the series (although I did miss his trade mark of multiple gory and gruesome scenes). Never the less Hunting Evil is a fast-paced, adrenaline fuelled read, the mind games Lucien plays are a stroke of genius, and add to the tension. Highly recommended to those who love a crime thriller that’s seriously twisted.
The Magpies was the first book I read by Mark Edwards way back in 2013 and it’s one that often springs to mind as it’s one of my favourite psychologicThe Magpies was the first book I read by Mark Edwards way back in 2013 and it’s one that often springs to mind as it’s one of my favourite psychological thrillers EVER. I also really enjoyed the follow up A Murder Of Magpies. So imagine my delight when I found out the author had written a chilling conclusion to The Magpies in the form of Last Of The Magpies I should point out it’s a short story (100 pages) and not a full length novel, but don’t let that put you off the author manages to pack a lot into this thrilling sequel.
As far as Jamie Knight is concerned Lucy Newton is the devil reincarnated, she has made his life a misery from the day they became neighbours, she caused his marriage to break down, and drove him to the brink. Twelve months after his last encounter with Lucy, one in which he his ex-wife Kirsty barely survived, he’s determined to find Lucy for a final showdown, but who will survive? that’s the question I was eager to find the answer to.
I loved the extracts from Lucy’s Secret memoirs, you get a real sense of her manipulative and conniving personality, she’s someone who has no compassion for others. It’s these chapters that make for an unsettling read. Lucy is a fascinating character you can’t help being drawn to her, trying to fathom out how far she will go to keep her freedom. You can’t help rooting for Jamie, a victim of Lucy’s depraved games, hoping that he would at last find away to rid himself of Lucy once and for all.
I’m not sure how I expected Mark Edwards to conclude Lucy’s story, but in my opinion it’s the most fitting ending. As I mentioned this is a short read, but the author still manages to pack plenty in, the plot doesn’t feel rushed and the author manages to incorporate a great deal of tension into the plot. I’ve really enjoyed this series of books and couldn’t help but find Lucy’s character memorising, even though she repulsed and fascinated me in equal measures. Highly recommended
Woohoo Cara Hunter is back with No Way Out the third novel in the D I Adam Fawley series, in case you haven’t guessed this is one of my favourite crimWoohoo Cara Hunter is back with No Way Out the third novel in the D I Adam Fawley series, in case you haven’t guessed this is one of my favourite crime series ever, in fact I didn’t even bother reading the book description, I picked up the book and dived right in. After reading No Way Out in a day it’s safe to say this crime thriller turned out to be everything I hoped for and more. The author pulls out all the stops, No Way Out is a nail biting, complex tale of arson, child murder and family intrigue.
No Way Out opens with the chilling discovery of two children, burned in a fire in their family home. Initially, there’s no sign of their parents. The police are not only dealing with arson, but possibly murder. Who would want this seemingly “normal family” dead? Where are the parents? Enter Di Fawley and his team whose job it is to piece the clues together. No Way Out begins in the present but gradually reveals events in the families past that led to the devastating house fire. With so much going on you would be forgiven if you thought this novel may be difficult to follow, but it’s really not, Cara Hunter has a knack of blending past and present timelines, and other mediums into a seamless read that’s nigh on impossible to put down.
Although No Way Out can be read as a stand-alone I would urge you to read the whole series in order, it’s no hardship I promise. In this novel we learn more about DI Fawley and his team, although the author doesn’t overwhelm the plot with details of their woes or personal life’s, which I find can often happen with a crime series. We just know enough about each of the characters to satisfy our curiosity and make each character all the more intriguing. As you can see from the book description a child dies, which although upsetting the author handles the subject with sensitivity.
If there’s one thing I love about Cara Hunter’s books it her attention to detail, not only does she provide the reader with a gripping story line, but she adds newspaper reports, transcriptions from witness statements and fire statement reports. An original concept which adds a touch of authenticity to the read, but it’s also one that make you feel part of the investigation rather than a bystander, you’re there sifting through the mountains of evidence, poring over witness statements looking for the clue that will finally “crack” the case. As I expected Cara Hunter has woven an intricate plot, bound together in red herrings and misdirection at every turn, the most satisfying thing about a crime read is not working out the intricate plot before the big reveal, and Cara Hunter kept me in the dark until the shocking but very satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended by me....more
Ever since I read Truth And Lies (the first book in the DI Amy Winter series), I’ve been eagerly waiting for The Secret Child to be published, and freEver since I read Truth And Lies (the first book in the DI Amy Winter series), I’ve been eagerly waiting for The Secret Child to be published, and freaking hell it was definitely worth the wait. Amy’s biological parents are notorious serial killers, not the best background for a Detective I must admit! But that’s what makes this series refreshingly original and highly compelling. Before you ask “Yes” The Secret Child could be read as a stand-alone, but would I recommend it? No, personally I think you need to read the books in order, Amy has such a fascinating and original backstory it would be a shame if you didn’t follow her disturbing tale from the beginning.
Amy is the Detective leading the case of the kidnapping of four-year-old girl Ellen, taken from her home in the middle of the night. Days later Ellen’s mother receives a parcel, along with a note, nothing strange about that you may think but the person who sent the parcel has been dead for years! Told across two timelines the author reveals a sorry tale, but my god it made for a nail-biting, heart thumping read. Although I would never condone kidnapping, I couldn’t help but feel empathy for a character whose own tortured childhood shaped the adult they become.
This book is as much about the characters as it is about the crimes committed, the author has created some fabulous characters, Amy, the kidnapper and her serial killer mother all added to my overall enjoyment of this read. Even from behind prison bars Amy’s evil mother Lillian Grimes continues to manipulate Amy and those around her, she’s one twisted mother ****** that’s for sure, and yet I couldn’t help being fascinated and disgusted in equal measures by her character, what makes a mother turn into a feared killer? How can she possibly consider herself to be a victim? Amy has her flaws like many a fictional Detective, but it’s hardly surprising when you consider who her parents are! The author gives an in-depth insight into Amy character, as she reveals more details of Amy’s very disturbing past, you can’t help but feel her pain and confusion, her constant dissecting of her personality looking for any psychopathic traits she may have inherited from her parents.
There is so much I loved about this book, the characters, the plot which draws on real events making it even more shocking, the shifting between past and present. Add to the fact The Secret Child is one of those reads that reels you in with a promising prologue and keeps you in its grips with an intense and captivating read, it’s definitely a series I would recommend to crime thriller lovers. I’m eager to see where Caroline Mitchell’s twisted imagination takes her next, and that’s the beauty of her writing no two books are the same, so roll on the next book which I will read come hell or high water.
Poetic Justice is the ninth book in in the Detective Jack Dylan series but it’s also the prequel to the previous eight books so if you haven’t read anPoetic Justice is the ninth book in in the Detective Jack Dylan series but it’s also the prequel to the previous eight books so if you haven’t read any of the books in the series Poetic Justice is the perfect introduction to Jack Dylan. Oh dear, poor Jack Dylan, the authors push him to breaking point in this book. First the victim of a vicious unprovoked attack, then his wife dies in mysterious circumstances, and his step-daughter gets expelled from university for drug abuse, enough to send any man over the edge, but not Jack Dylan, his unwavering quest for justice pushes him onward through a dark period in his life. Although I have only read a few books in the series I enjoyed learning more about Jack and how events from his past shaped his character.
For me it was the second part of Poetic Justice I enjoyed the most, I found the first half a slow burner, but in the author’s defence they use this time to build on the background behind the plots and although this slows the pace of the read, it gives the reader time to gain an in-depth view of the various characters and plots. The second half is much grittier and hard knocking. As the case the police are working involve Dylan, he has to take a ‘back seat’ so to speak, but even then he is determined to get to the truth despite his own grief, and it’s his tireless efforts that propel the story forward.
Poetic Justice is very much character driven so if you are looking for a fast-paced police procedure read this may not be the book for you, but if like me, you like to have a better understanding of the characters you read about then I would highly recommend this book. At certain points of this book there were scenes that were emotionally charged, and I found myself sympathetic to Dylan’s plight, something I wasn’t expecting. There are a couple of plots running through the book, and although not fast-paced or shocking, both added to my enjoyment of this book. I should mention the author’s police background adds an air of authenticity to the story that some police crime thrillers can lack. Poetic Justice is the perfect read for new fans of the series and for those who are already big fans of this series, it’s a worthy addition to the Jack Dylan series.
I’m a huge fan of Angela Marsons “Kim Stone” series, and will literally drop everything to read her latest book, and woe betide anyone who disturbs meI’m a huge fan of Angela Marsons “Kim Stone” series, and will literally drop everything to read her latest book, and woe betide anyone who disturbs me! Dead Memories maybe the tenth book in the series but my god what a series it’s been, it’s made me laugh, sob uncontrollably, I’m still not sure I’ve forgiven the author for that one yet! And kept me reading into the small hours. As a huge crime thriller reader I can sometimes find a long-running series has lost its lustre, they can feel repetitive and lacking the suspense I look forward too, but “hell” no Angela Marsons makes sure each book has a unique plot, that are packed to the brim with suspense, with characters whom you genuinely care about.
Someone is recreating crime scenes that relate to Kim’s disturbing past, someone wants to destroy her, with a list of suspects as long as her arm Kim faces her most complex case yet, How far will one of her enemies go to exact their revenge? And who is the person who seems to know so much about Kim’s past? Desperate for answers and determined to stay on the case which has become personal, Kim is forced to work with profiler Alison Lowe who has been recruited to observe and monitor Kim’s behaviour, which goes down like a lead balloon to say the least ! but Alison has her own demons to face, which add yet another layer of intrigue to Dead Memories. Each murder scene recreates an exact replica of traumatic events in Kim’s life, forcing her to relive the tragic events of her past, buried emotions are pushed to the surface, resulting in the reader seeing a very different “Kim” to the one featured in previous books.
As the series has progressed Kim Stone has really got under my skin, I can’t help but feel protective of her, I know her backstory, her fears and the events from her past that make it difficult for her to get close to anyone. Underneath all the bravado and hot air is a vulnerable woman, one you feel could fracture into a million pieces if pushed to far. One of the things I love about this crime series is the way the author has worked her magic and created living, breathing characters, I love the camaraderie between the members of Kim’s team, the dark humour, the way they irritate the hell out of each other, it’s the small details that make them a very credible team. The relationship between Kim and her sidekick Bryant is entertaining, but Bryant is also protective of Kim which makes him a very endearing character.
I enjoy a crime thriller so much more when the crime scenes are imaginative and this is where the author comes into her own they’re not what I consider to be gory, but Marsons paints a picture that’s so vivid that you can imagine yourself alongside Kim and her team, picking through the bones (no pun attended) of a crime scene. Dead Memories has all the elements I love in a crime thriller, the thrill of the chase, the deciphering of the clues, plenty of red herring wrapped up in a taut and suspense fuelled plot. Personally Angela Marsons books writes in such a way you are guaranteed the suspense and high levels of tension you would expect from a crime thriller, but they are also emotionally charged and are as much about the characters as the crimes committed, something often lacking in books of this genre.
If you haven’t read this series, I seriously recommend you start with Silent Scream, believe me when I say you won’t be “disappointed”. Would I recommend Dead Memories? it’s a “hell yes” with bells on. This maybe book ten but this is one crime series that goes from strength to strength, and I’m already missing Kim Stone and her motley crew so roll on the next book in the series I’m ready and waiting.
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