DC Mel Cotton is back with a new case to solve, the murder of Duncan Bennett, an unassuming worker at a local confectionary warehouse. As Mel’s team investigate, one key question remains… who would want ‘boring’ Duncan dead?
And the case soon becomes far more complex and dangerous than expected, threatening to overwhelm Mexton’s small police force. With terrorists, a paedophile network and a hitman in town, Mel and her colleagues face their greatest challenge yet.
Mel’s own courage will be tested to the limits and no-one is safe. Who is stirring up hatred and violence in the area?
And can Mel prevent herself from becoming too involved and putting her life in severe jeopardy?
My thoughts about Brian Price’s Fatal Hate has engaging storyline which keeps the reader’s hooked throughout the book. I don’t know how to be careful here without letting out spoilers but I will do my best at it. Brian Price’s Fatal Hate begins with the massive catastrophe which forms the pivot of the story. Interestingly Brian adapts a smart reverse narration strategy this time, which works in favor of his book. The plot of the book is good and the execution is superb, the story of the book is gripping. Brian Price’s Fatal Hate is filled with lots of intelligently crafted scenes which i don’t want to mention here to avoid spoilers again. Author Brian Price’s writing turns every predictable moment into an unimaginable twist and it works in the book’s favour beautifully. Brian Price’s Fatal Hate story begins with DC Mel Cotton is back with a new case to solve, the murder of Duncan Bennett, an unassuming worker at a local confectionary warehouse. As Mel’s team investigate, one key question remains, who would want ‘boring’ Duncan dead, And the case soon becomes far more complex and dangerous than expected, threatening to overwhelm Mexton’s small police force. With terrorists, a paedophile network and a hitman in town, Mel and her colleagues face their greatest challenge yet. Mel’s own courage will be tested to the limits and no-one is safe. Who is stirring up hatred and violence in the area? And can Mel prevent herself from becoming too involved and putting her life in severe jeopardy. Brian Price’s Fatal Hate is a triumph of smart writing, superb characterisation which is brilliantly done. I would like to say a big thank you to Author Brian Price, Adrian Hobart and Rebecca Collins from Hobeck Books for kindly sending me a gifted copy for me to read and review this brilliant book I’ve enjoyed reading. Brian Price’s Fatal Hate is an indulgent affair that breaks down the boundaries of regular thriller. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥💥💥💥💥💥
About Author Brian Price
Brian Price is a chemist and biologist who retired from the Environment Agency in 2016. He is the author of Crime Writing: How to write the science and runs a website offering tips on science for crime writers (www.crimewriterscience.co.uk). He is an avid reader of crime fiction and has also written a number of short stories, one of which was a runner up in the Weston-super-Mare Literary Festival 2019 and another was short listed in the Chorley Writers Circle competition in 2018. He taught science and technology courses for the Open University for 26 years. Previous books include P for Pollution and C for Chemicals (with Mike Birkin). Brian’s first crime novel, Fatal Trade, was published, as an ebook and paperback, by Hobeck Books on 14th September 2021. A free novella, Fatal Beginnings, is available from Hobeck Books at http://www.hobeck.net The sequel to Fatal Trade, Fatal Hate, will be published by Hobeck Books on 12th April 2022. Several of his short stories appear in the anthology Cuckoo and one of his stories was published in the charity anthology, The Dark Side of Christmas. Find out more about Brian at http://www.brianpriceauthor.co.uk
The first in a Newcastle-set police procedural series with a twist. DCI Jack Parker has a secret. He has Early Onset Dementia and he will do anything and everything to hide it from his peers and the people he’s investigating. THE CLOCK IS TICKING. THERE’S NO ESCAPE.
DCI Jack Parker has faced down hardened villains and raving, drug-addled lunatics. He’s disarmed a machete-wielding psychopath and broken devastating news of a loved one’s death more times than he can remember.
With a serial killer stalking the Newcastle streets and one of his closest colleagues lying in the mortuary following a hit and run he thinks things are about as tough as they’ve ever been. But he should know that trouble always comes in threes.
Jack is about to face the biggest challenge of his life, one that will end his career and destroy his family: Early Onset Dementia.
As he does everything he can to hide his deteriorating condition from his family and colleagues, Jack believes that the serial killer is haunted by his childhood while his own memories are built on increasingly shifting sands.
The race against time to save lives, including his own, has begun.
Whilst staying within the realms of the police procedural genre, this cracking thriller will explore character in depth and with sensitivity, as well as with the author’s trademark dark humour.
My thoughts about Trevor Wood’s The Silent Killer is a gripping and poignant police procedural thriller that combines pulse-pounding suspense with an exploration of the frailty of the human mind. Trevor Wood’s deft handling of complex themes and compelling characters makes this a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Trevor Wood’s writing is taut and atmospheric, evoking the gritty streets of Newcastle and the tension of a city on edge. Each twist and turn in the plot is expertly executed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Trevor Wood’s The Silent Killer begins with DCI Jack Parker has faced down hardened villains and raving, drug-addled lunatics. He’s disarmed a machete-wielding psychopath and broken devastating news of a loved one’s death more times than he can remember. With a serial killer stalking the Newcastle streets and one of his closest colleagues lying in the mortuary following a hit and run he thinks things are about as tough as they’ve ever been. But he should know that trouble always comes in threes. Jack is about to face the biggest challenge of his life, one that will end his career and destroy his family: Early Onset Dementia. As he does everything he can to hide his deteriorating condition from his family and colleagues, Jack believes that the serial killer is haunted by his childhood while his own memories are built on increasingly shifting sands. The race against time to save lives, including his own, has begun. Overall Trevor Wood’s The Silent Killer stands out as a masterpiece, a gripping thriller that transcends genre conventions to deliver a profoundly moving meditation on life, love, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It’s a book that demands to be read, savored, and remembered long after the final chapter has come to a close. I would like to say a big thank you to Ella Patel from Quercus books, for kindly sending me a gifted copy for me to read and review this outstanding police procedural thriller. Which I’ve enjoyed reading. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Trevor Wood
Trevor was born in Bristol, and brought up in the East Midlands, but it’s Newcastle that he holds dear to his heart. He joined the Royal Navy straight from school, presciently asa writer (which is the oldest branch in the service). ‘It’s like a cross between human resources, accounting and administration,’ he tells us. ‘Fortunately, I loved it and it suited my skillset which, back then, was pretty much limited to Maths and English – the only two O levels I got.’ Trevor served for 16 years, getting promoted through the ranks, and finally leaving as a Lieutenant. But it was meeting and, just a few months later, marrying a Geordie at an Open University summer school that led Trevor to the city, where he’s lived ever since. ‘She had a look at Portsmouth and I had a look at Newcastle and there was only ever going to be one winner,’ he says.
After leaving the Navy, Trevor retrained as a journalist and worked on several North East papers including the Shields Gazette and the Evening Chronicle, where he was on the sports desk with ‘local legends’ John Gibson and Alan Oliver. He later became press officer for the Leader of Newcastle City Council, Tony Flynn, and then Head of Communications there. ‘All that time my friend from the journalism course, Ed Waugh, had been pushing me to try writing with him and eventually I cracked,’ Trevor tells us. ‘I took a huge leap of faith, left my job and we sat down and wrote a play together called Good to Firm which, astonishingly, opened at the Customs House in South Shields five months later. We went on to write around a dozen plays, one of which, Dirty Dusting, was a worldwide hit and is still touring today.’
Trevor didn’t actually get his first novel, The Man on the Street, published until he was 62. But he remains convinced that age is just a number. ‘I’m a huge fan of the American politician Bernie Sanders. The man’s nearly 80 and he still has the fire and passion to try and change things. He’s an example to us all,’ he says. ‘I’m living proof that age is no obstacle at all, but you can’t do it on your own. I’m part of a local group of five writers who share our latest work every few weeks and it’s helped make my books so much better than they would have been otherwise.’ With this support, his books have been a huge success. ‘I really didn’t expect the plaudits that they’ve received,’ he admits. But his first book had a lot of early support from other crime writers too, who Trevor describes as ‘a wonderfully supportive group.’ Soon after, it picked up rave reviews from national press and early readers, so it was no surprise to us when Val McDermid then chose it for her New Blood panel at the Theakston’s Crime Festival – which is something that many, if not all, debut crime writers aspire to. Later, it made the shortlist for the Crime Writers’ Association’s New Blood Dagger – a prize for the best debut crime novel of the year. ‘It was an honour to even be on the list but when they announced The Man on the Street as the winner on a live Zoom ceremony I was completely shocked,’ Trevor says. ‘I really had to gather myself quickly as they switched my camera on immediately and I had to make a speech to the hundreds of people watching. It was complete gobbledegook, I’m sure.’
In May, The Man on the Street made it to the longlist for the UK’s most prestigious crime novel award, Theakston Old Peculier, which Trevor described as ‘mind-boggling’. ‘It’s fantastic to be thought of as one of the best debut crime novelists but when you’re then included in a list of the best crime books of the entire year alongside people like Val, Ian Rankin and Mark Billingham (who you’ve admired from afar for years) it’s almost dreamlike. Very few debut books make that list, and I think I’m the only one this year, so I’m hugely honoured.’ Lee Child also loved the book, describing it as ‘fresh’ and ‘original.’ That meant a great deal to Trevor as he was lucky enough to get a place on the very first Crime Writing MA at the University of East Anglia, where Lee was a visiting speaker. ‘He generously gave us several hours of his time, answering our questions and passing on advice,’ Trevor says. ‘To get such a wonderful quote from him three years later seemed like the end of the first part of one journey and the start of another.’
Longlisted for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2024 Two disappearances. Two families. One secret. Missing persons investigator David Raker returns to crack a cold case wide open. One day ago. On the night Tom Brenner and his nine-year-old son Leo visit the Seven Peaks theme park, they head straight for the ghost house. They go in. But they don’t come out. Somewhere inside the ride, impossible as it seems, the two of them simply vanish. Forty years ago. When Rebekah Murphy was three, her mother walked out of their childhood home and never returned. Nearly four decades on, Fiona Murphy is still missing. But then, out of the blue, a letter arrives in the post. It says it’s from Fiona. Now. Missing persons investigator David Raker is hired by Rebekah to find out if the letter is actually from her mother – and soon makes a connection to the Brenners. But these are mysteries whose secrets were never meant to be found. And with his closest ally under arrest and about to reveal some truths of his own, the danger to Raker is coming from all sides…
My thoughts about Tim Weaver’s The Last Goodbye is a gripping mystery novel that seamlessly weaves together two timelines and multiple intriguing plotlines. The story follows missing persons investigator David Raker as he delves into the disappearance of Fiona Murphy, who vanished decades ago, and the inexplicable vanishing of Tom Brenner and his son Leo at the Seven Peaks theme park. Writer Tim Weaver masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. One of the novel’s strengths lies in its well-developed characters. Raker is a compelling protagonist, driven by his relentless pursuit of the truth and haunted by his own personal demons. The plot twists and turns keeps the readers guessing until the final pages. Tim Weaver expertly ratchets up the suspense, leading to a satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends while leaving room for contemplation. Tim Weaver’s The Last Goodbye story begins with One day ago. On the night Tom Brenner and his nine-year-old son Leo visit the Seven Peaks theme park, they head straight for the ghost house. They go in. But they don’t come out. Somewhere inside the ride, impossible as it seems, the two of them simply vanish. Forty years ago. When Rebekah Murphy was three, her mother walked out of their childhood home and never returned. Nearly four decades on, Fiona Murphy is still missing. But then, out of the blue, a letter arrives in the post. It says it’s from Fiona. Now. Missing persons investigator David Raker is hired by Rebekah to find out if the letter is actually from her mother – and soon makes a connection to the Brenners. But these are mysteries whose secrets were never meant to be found. And with his closest ally under arrest and about to reveal some truths of his own, the danger to Raker is coming from all sides. Overall, The Last Goodbye is a masterful thriller that will leave readers breathless. With its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and spine-tingling suspense, it is sure to captivate fans of the genre from beginning to end. Weaver proves once again why he is a master of the mystery genre, delivering a gripping tale that will linger in readers’ minds long after the final page is turned. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Tim Weaver
Tim Weaver is the author of 13 novels, including the David Raker mysteries You Were Gone and No One Home, and the standalone novel, Missing Pieces. His latest book is The Shadow at the Door, a unique collection of four inter-connected stories, all featuring David Raker –– and, in June, Raker will return again in Tim’s thrilling new novel, The Blackbird. Tim’s books have been selected for the Richard and Judy Book Club, shortlisted for a National Book Award, and been nominated for both the Crime Writers’ Association Dagger in the Library and Ian Fleming Steel Dagger awards. They’ve also been Sunday Times Top 5 bestsellers and number ones on Kindle, iBooks and Audible.
Captivating and horrifying at once, a completely plausible evocation of the putrid morass that is the British Establishment and its craven capitulation to Russian money – or indeed, any money. Oliver Harris is squarely in the territory of the greats: Greene and le Carré but also the modern masters, Mick Herron and Adam Brookes. There can be no higher accolade’ Manda Scott
How does a secret service confront its past, when its secrets must never be revealed?
Buried deep in MI6’s digital archives is the most classified directory of all. It doesn’t contain war plans or agent profiles, but shame: the misdeeds of politicians, royalty, business leaders and the service’s own personnel.
There are seven decades’ worth of images and recordings, usually acquired for the sake of assessing risk, sometimes as a guard against betrayal, often engineered by MI6 for their own purposes. They are the most sensitive two thousand terabytes of data in the Service’s possession. When material from the archive begins appearing online, panic spreads through the Establishment like wildfire.
At first, the security breach only manifests itself in apparently random events: a suicide, a disappearance, a breakdown. But when it’s discovered that the individuals concerned were all contacted by the same anonymous person, a connection comes into focus. The archive has been leaked. The hunt is now of unprecedented urgency before the entire political and business systems are fatally weakened. That’s when they call for Elliot Kane…
My thoughts about Oliver Harris’s The Shame Archive transcends the boundaries of the traditional spy thriller genre by delving into the psychological depths of its characters. Harris deftly explores the toll that a life of secrecy and deception takes on those who inhabit this world, painting a portrait of individuals who are as flawed as they are compelling. Oliver Harris’s The Shame Archive is more than just a gripping spy thriller, it’s a thought-provoking meditation on the nature of secrecy, accountability, and the cost of betraying one’s principles. Harris has crafted a novel that is both timely and timeless, reminding us that the truest secrets are often the ones we keep from ourselves. The story of Oliver Harris’s The Shame Archive begins with Buried deep in MI6’s digital archives is the most classified directory of all. It doesn’t contain war plans or agent profiles, but shame: the misdeeds of politicians, royalty, business leaders and the service’s own personnel. There are seven decades’ worth of images and recordings, usually acquired for the sake of assessing risk, sometimes as a guard against betrayal, often engineered by MI6 for their own purposes. They are the most sensitive two thousand terabytes of data in the Service’s possession. When material from the archive begins appearing online, panic spreads through the Establishment like wildfire. At first, the security breach only manifests itself in apparently random events: a suicide, a disappearance, a breakdown. But when it’s discovered that the individuals concerned were all contacted by the same anonymous person, a connection comes into focus. The archive has been leaked. The hunt is now of unprecedented urgency before the entire political and business systems are fatally weakened. That’s when they call for Elliot Kane. Overall Oliver Harris’s The Shame Archive is a gripping spy thriller that combines pulse-pounding action with thought-provoking themes, delivering a reading experience that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant. Whether you’re a fan of espionage thrillers or simply enjoy a well-crafted story that challenges the status quo, Harris’s latest novel is sure to leave a lasting impression. I would like to say a big thank you to writer Oliver Harris and publishers Abacus books for kindly sending me a gifted copy for me to read and review this brilliant book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Oliver Harris
Oliver was born in London and now lives in Manchester, where he teaches part-time at Manchester Metropolitan University,
Edge of the Land is the thrilling third novel in the Merseyside crime series from Malcolm Hollingdrake, author of the best-selling Harrogate crime series.
The waterways of the Liverpool docks contain many ghosts and shadows. It’s a place to disappear… a place to die. Detective Inspector April Decent and Detective Sergeant Skeeter Warlock are fearful for the welfare of a vulnerable young man injured in an attack ordered by drug dealers. Originally questioned at the scene, the young man denies the attack and refuses to co-operate with the police. He soon disappears. Clues to his whereabouts are sown, a cry for help maybe, but he remains elusive.
At the same time, the team are dealing with a spate of deaths in the city. The one thing the deaths have in common: the victims are all homeless and seemingly ravaged by addiction. Initially, the deaths are not considered to be suspicious as there is no obvious connection. Soon the hallmarks of murder are discovered and a hunt for a potential serial killer is on. Is there a link between the missing man and the deaths? Could he be the vital piece of the puzzle which will solve the mystery behind the brutal murders?
My thoughts about Malcolm Hollingdrake’s Edge Of The Land This third book in the Merseyside crime series scores big with its fast-paced developments, revelations, and strong characters. Malcolm Hollingdrake’s Edge Of The Land also has all the ingredients required for a successful crime thriller with intriguing plot, captivating storyline, multi-dimensional characters, suspense and an evil villain who sends chills down your spine. Writer Malcolm Hollingdrake’s writing is sharp and crisp, the way Malcolm has written the story will blow your mind. The story of Edge Of Land begins with The waterways of the Liverpool docks contain many ghosts and shadows. It’s a place to disappear… a place to die. Detective Inspector April Decent and Detective Sergeant Skeeter Warlock are fearful for the welfare of a vulnerable young man injured in an attack ordered by drug dealers. Originally questioned at the scene, the young man denies the attack and refuses to co-operate with the police. He soon disappears. Clues to his whereabouts are sown, a cry for help maybe, but he remains elusive. At the same time, the team are dealing with a spate of deaths in the city. The one thing the deaths have in common: the victims are all homeless and seemingly ravaged by addiction. Initially, the deaths are not considered to be suspicious as there is no obvious connection. Soon the hallmarks of murder are discovered and a hunt for a potential serial killer is on. Is there a link between the missing man and the deaths. Could he be the vital piece of the puzzle which will solve the mystery behind the brutal murders. Overall Malcolm Hollingdrake’s Edge Of The Land is a gripping thriller that goes much beyond the usual police procedural’s and stands out because of the sharp writing, natural characters, and it is an engaging read. I would like to say a big thank you to Adrian and Rebecca from Hobeck Books for kindly sending me a gifted copy of Malcolm Hollingdrake’s breathtaking police procedural thriller which I’ve enjoyed reading. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Malcolm Hollingdrake
You could say that the writing was clearly on the wall for someone born in a library that they might aspire to be an author, but to get to that point Malcolm Hollingdrake has travelled a circuitous route. Malcolm worked in education for many years, even teaching for a period in Cairo before he started writing, a challenge he had longed to tackle for more years than he cares to remember. He has written a number of successful short stories, has thirteen books now available and is presently planning the next crime novel set in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. He also has two books within the Merseyside Crime Series published by Hobeck Books and is working on the third. Born in Bradford and spending three years at Ripon College, Malcolm has never lost his love for his home county, a passion that is reflected in the settings for all the DCI Bennett novels However, as well as the Bennett series he is writing a new series set in Merseyside. Malcolm has enjoyed many hobbies including collecting works by Northern artists; the art auctions offer a degree of excitement when both buying and certainly when selling. It is a hobby he has bestowed upon DCI Cyril Bennett, the main character in his successful Bennett series.
When you’re living a lie, you find it’s best to avoid close attachments…’
Lynch, a burned out con-artist, arrives, broke, in London, trying not to dwell on the mistakes that got him there. When he bumps into Bobbie, a rehab-bound heiress – and when she briefly mistakes him for her missing brother – Lynch senses the opportunity, as well as the danger…
Bobbie’s brother, Heydon, was a troubled young man. Five years ago, he walked out of the family home and never went back. His car was found parked on a bridge overlooking the Thames, in the early hours of the same morning. Unsettled by Bobbie’s story, and suffering from a rare attack of conscience, Lynch tries to back off.
But when Bobbie leaves for rehab the following day, he finds himself drawn to her luxurious family home, and into a meeting with her mother, the formidable Miranda. Seeing the same resemblance that her daughter did, Miranda proposes she hire Lynch to assume her son’s identity, in a last-ditch effort to try and flush out his killer.
As Lynch begins to impersonate him, dark forces are lured out of the shadows, and he realises too late that Heydon wasn’t paranoid at all. Someone was watching his every move, and they’ll kill to keep it a secret.
For the first time, Lynch is in a life or death situation he can’t lie his way out of.
My thoughts about Joseph Knox’s Imposter Syndrome is a Riveting Tale of Deception, Identity, and Deadly Secret. Joseph Knox delivers a gripping narrative in Imposter Syndrome, weaving together elements of suspense, deception, and psychological intrigue. The story follows Lynch, a burned-out con-artist who stumbles upon a fateful encounter with Bobbie, a rehab-bound heiress, mistaking him momentarily for her missing brother, Heydon. What begins as a chance encounter quickly escalates into a tangled web of lies and danger as Lynch is drawn into impersonating Heydon at the behest of Bobbie’s formidable mother, Miranda. Joseph Knox’s Imposter Syndrome sets the stage for a thrilling ride, but Joseph Knox’s masterful execution takes the story to greater heights. One of the strengths of Joseph Knox’s thriller lies in its portrayal of the dynamics between the characters. Lynch’s interactions with Bobbie, Miranda, and other key players are fraught with tension, mistrust, and hidden agendas. Each character is meticulously crafted, adding layers of depth to the narrative and keeping readers guessing about their true motivations. Overall Joseph Knox’s Imposter Syndrome is a riveting thriller that captivates from beginning to end. Joseph Knox’s skillful storytelling, complex characters, and deft handling of suspense make it a must-read for fans of the genre. And with the blend of heart-pounding action, Joseph Knox’s thriller is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after the final page is turned. I would like to say a big thank you to author Joseph Knox and publishers Transworld books and Doubleday books, for kindly letting me read and review this breathtaking thriller on netgalley. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Joseph Knox
Joseph Knox has lived in Stoke on Trent, Manchester and London. In 2020, he became an Irish citizen. His debut novel, Sirens, was a bestseller and has been translated into eighteen languages. The Smiling Man and The Sleepwalker are the second and third books in the Waits trilogy. His first standalone novel, True Crime Story, was a Times number one bestseller.
The signs are unmistakable. The dog halts, his nose up – nostrils quivering. Every inch of him is poised. Moss has a scent. When a hand is found in Gallows Wood, PC Lucy Halliday and her specialist search dog Moss must find the rest of the body. What they uncover is a killer’s dumping ground. Like every case since her husband’s mysterious disappearance, Lucy wonders if this one will bring her closer to the truth. Nico was a journalist with a reputation for getting buried in his work; Lucy is certain that this time he delved too deep. With new DI Jack Ellis calling the shots, Lucy struggles to keep her professionalism intact. She can’t stay away from these murders – and a killer who may hold the answers she desperately wants. But with those at the very heart of the investigation withholding secrets of their own, can more brutal deaths be prevented? The first book in the gripping new police procedural series featuring dog handler PC Lucy Halliday. Perfect for fans of Lynda La Plante, Val McDermid and Susie Steiner.
My thoughts about Louisa Scarr’s Gallows Wood is a riveting addition to the police procedural genre, offering readers a thrilling journey into the heart of a murder investigation. From the very first page. Writer Louisa Scarr’s writing is vivid and immersive, drawing readers into the dark and foreboding world of the investigation. One of the novel’s standout elements is the dynamic between Lucy and her search dog, Moss. Louisa Scarr’s portrayal of their bond is both heartwarming and authentic, showcasing the unique connection between handler and canine. Moss’s role in the investigation adds an intriguing dimension to the story, as his keen senses lead Lucy closer to the answers she seeks. The story of Louisa Scarr’s Gallows Wood begins with When a hand is found in Gallows Wood, PC Lucy Halliday and her specialist search dog Moss must find the rest of the body. What they uncover is a killer’s dumping ground. Like every case since her husband’s mysterious disappearance, Lucy wonders if this one will bring her closer to the truth. Nico was a journalist with a reputation for getting buried in his work; Lucy is certain that this time he delved too deep. With new DI Jack Ellis calling the shots, Lucy struggles to keep her professionalism intact. She can’t stay away from these murders and a killer who may hold the answers she desperately wants. But with those at the very heart of the investigation withholding secrets of their own, can more brutal deaths be prevented. Overall Louisa Scarr’s Gallows Wood is a masterfully crafted thriller that will keep readers guessing until the final page. With its atmospheric setting, compelling characters, and twisty plot, it is sure to captivate fans of the genre from start to finish. I would like to say a big thank you to Thanh Mai from Canelo Publishers, for kindly sending me a gifted arc copy for me to read and review this brilliant new series. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Louisa Scarr
Louisa Scarr studied psychology at the University of Southampton and has lived in and around the city ever since. She works as a freelance copywriter and editor, and when she’s not writing, she can be found pounding the streets in running shoes or swimming in muddy lakes. She is the author of the Butler and West crime series, published by Canelo Crime, beginning with Last Place You Look and ending with Out of the Ashes. A new series, about a police dog handler, will launch in July 2024 with Gallows Wood. She also writes as Sam Holland and is the author of the award-winning Major Crimes series, following detectives as they investigate murders committed by brutal serial killers in the south of England. The Echo Man and The Twenty are out now; The Puppet Master will follow in June 2024 and can be preordered today. She began her career writing as Louisa de Lange: her debut novel The Dream Wife was an eBook bestseller and hailed as ‘startling and clever’ by R&J bestseller Cara Hunter, and ‘thriller-writing at its best’ by the Daily Mail. This was followed by the Kate Munro series, Ask Me No Questions and Nowhere to be Found. You can follow her on Twitter @paperclipgirl and on Instagram @louisascarrwriter.
When Kate Barrett, is kidnapped by the ruthless international terrorist group White Cloud, she is thrust into a deadly game of manipulation and betrayal. Kate quickly discovers the group’s sinister agenda and realises they are using her to blackmail her husband, Sol, into utilising his aircraft expertise and aid them with a plan that threatens humanity.
Kate is rescued from their clutches by Viribus, an underground group of vigilantes, who decide to help save Sol from descending into evil and prevent White Cloud’s heinous plan from coming to fruition.
In a race against time, Kate finds herself torn between duty and love, facing an impossible choice that will determine the fate of humanity and stop White Cloud from raining destruction upon the world.
My thoughts about Cam Shaw’s Skies of Destruction takes readers on a thrilling ride through a world of espionage, terrorism, and the resilience of the human spirit. Writer Cam Shaw masterfully crafts a narrative filled with tension, intrigue, and moral dilemmas that keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. One of the novel’s strengths lies in Shaw’s ability to create vivid and complex characters. From the determined and resourceful Kate to the conflicted and vulnerable Sol, each character feels authentic and multi-dimensional. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in their struggles and triumphs, rooting for them every step of the way. Cam Shaw’s Skies of Destruction story begins with When Kate Barrett, is kidnapped by the ruthless international terrorist group White Cloud, she is thrust into a deadly game of manipulation and betrayal. Kate quickly discovers the group’s sinister agenda and realises they are using her to blackmail her husband, Sol, into utilising his aircraft expertise and aid them with a plan that threatens humanity. Kate is rescued from their clutches by Viribus, an underground group of vigilantes, who decide to help save Sol from descending into evil and prevent White Cloud’s heinous plan from coming to fruition. In a race against time, Kate finds herself torn between duty and love, facing an impossible choice that will determine the fate of humanity and stop White Cloud from raining destruction upon the world. As the narrative hurtles towards its climax, Shaw maintains a breakneck pace, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Overall, “Skies of Destruction” is a gripping and thought-provoking read that combines pulse-pounding action with profound themes. Cam Shaw’s expert storytelling and compelling characters make this novel a must-read for fans of espionage thrillers and dystopian fiction alike. I would like to say a big thank to author Cam Shaw, for kindly sending me a gifted copy for me to read and review this brilliant book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Cam Shaw
Cam Shaw was born in Melbourne, Australia and moved to the UK with his mother, June, when he was seven. After completing his compulsory schooling, he secured himself a job at Manchester Airport as a baggage handler. Upon reaching his late teens in 1999, Cam returned to Melbourne to live with his father, Graeme, where his working life in Australia began as a bartender at the Rosebud Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. In 2004, he signed up with the Royal Australian Air Force, where he served his country for the next seven years as an Avionics Technician working on the Boeing 707 air-to-air refueller and its successor, the KC30A MRTT aircraft. In 2011, he parted ways with the RAAF, seizing an opportunity to work in the civilian aviation sector, where he was employed by Qantas and Virgin as a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer on Airbus A330 and Boeing 737 aircraft. A couple of years later, Cam was head-hunted by a defence maintenance contractor. After eight and a half years as a Crew Leader in deep aircraft maintenance, he moved to RAAF Base Amberley, applying his experience as a Technical Services Officer. Cam currently lives in Brisbane’s Western suburbs with his fiancé, Sarah, his daughters, Georgia and Olivia, and Sarah’s two sons, Ryan and Luke. Together, they own two dogs and a parrot: Roxy, a Rhodesian Ridgeback x Bull Arab, Queenie, a Great Dane, and a grumpy Eclectus parrot named Rosie. In whatever spare time he can find, Cam likes to write, but he also makes time to play guitar and is a devout follower of Formula One, MotoGP, and Manchester United. He was inspired to take up writing by a fellow Australian author, the best-selling and internationally acclaimed Matthew Reilly.
Surprising and complex’ – B.P. WALTER ‘Suspenseful and perfectly crafted’ – VICTORIA SELMAN ‘A profoundly thrilling descent into the deadly nature of obsession’ – JANICE HALLETT
It’s always the husband… Isn’t it?
Astrid Webb is missing. The police have found her car crashed near the woods, the driver’s door open, the seat spotted with blood. But there’s no sign of Astrid herself, a sick woman who rarely left her house, who surely couldn’t have left the scene of the accident without help.
Her husband Bryan is sure that she’s alive – after all, this isn’t the first time she’s vanished, only to reappear without explanation. But as the days pass, Bryan starts to look like a suspect in his wife’s disappearance, perhaps in her murder. Because Bryan isn’t telling the police the whole truth. Not about Astrid’s stalker, their broken-in back door, or the threatening messages she received. And it seems as if both Astrid and Bryan have something to hide.
Then a woman’s body is found in the woods, her face terribly disfigured. By staying silent, is Bryan protecting Astrid, or protecting himself?
From the bestselling author of The Regret and The Box, this heart-pounding thriller is perfect for readers of Harlan Coben, Mark Billingham and Alex North.
My thoughts about Dan Malakin’s The Wreckage Of Us is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of marriage, trust, and the consequences of keeping secrets. Dan Malakin’s thriller weaves a tangled web of deceit and suspicion, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Writer Dan Malakin skillfully crafts a narrative filled with twists and turns, leaving readers guessing at every turn. As the plot thickens, Malakin expertly ratchets up the tension, leading to a shocking revelation that will leave readers reeling for more. Dan Malakin’s The Wreckage Of Us story begins with Astrid Webb is missing. The police have found her car crashed near the woods, the driver’s door open, the seat spotted with blood. But there’s no sign of Astrid herself, a sick woman who rarely left her house, who surely couldn’t have left the scene of the accident without help. Her husband Bryan is sure that she’s alive after all, this isn’t the first time she’s vanished, only to reappear without explanation. But as the days pass, Bryan starts to look like a suspect in his wife’s disappearance, perhaps in her murder. Because Bryan isn’t telling the police the whole truth. Not about Astrid’s stalker, their broken-in back door, or the threatening messages she received. And it seems as if both Astrid and Bryan have something to hide. Then a woman’s body is found in the woods, her face terribly disfigured. By staying silent, is Bryan protecting Astrid, or protecting himself. Overall Dan Malakin’s The Wreckage of Us is a compelling and thought-provoking thriller that will keep readers guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and atmospheric setting, Dan Malakin has crafted a must-read novel that will linger in the minds of readers long after they’ve turned the final page. I would like to say a big thank you to publishers Viper Books, for kindly sending me a gifted arc copy, for me to read and review this spellbinding thriller which I’ve enjoyed reading. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Dan Malakin
Dan Malakin has twice been shortlisted for the Bridport Prize, and his debut novel, The Regret, was a Kindle bestseller. When not writing thrillers, Dan works as a data security consultant, teaching corporations how to protect themselves from hackers. He lives in North London with his wife and daughter. His new novel, a crime thriller called The Wreckage of Us, will be released by Viper Books in June 2024
The story was full of twists and was intense and immersive. A fantastic start to an intriguing new series’ Angela Marsons Don’t miss the first instalment in a gripping new Scottish crime series! A deadly gift Imogen Clark wakes up on her 16th birthday to find her parents dead at the breakfast table, along with a message from their killer. A twist of fate Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen join the investigation, but the more they discover, the more Jazzy suspects that the killing is a twisted message for her. Jazzy shares the same birthday as Imogen, and believes that this is more than a coincidence. A race to catch a killer When Jazzy discovers the connection between the killer and the stalker who has been following her for years, she is forced to confront the dark past she was desperate to keep hidden. She must stop at nothing to solve the case, before she becomes the next victim… Don’t miss the first book in the Solanki and McQueen Crime Series, perfect for fans of Stuart MacBride, Val McDermid and Marion Todd
My thoughts about Liz Mistry’s The Blood Promise delivers a chilling and gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Set in Scotland, the novel follows the investigation of Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen into the brutal murder of Imogen Clark’s parents on her 16th birthday. Writer Liz Mistry skillfully weaves together multiple plot threads, keeping readers guessing at every turn. Liz Mistry’s writing is sharp and atmospheric, immersing readers in the gritty streets of Scotland and the minds of its characters.With plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the final, heart-pounding conclusion. The story of Liz Mistry’s The Blood Promise begins with Imogen Clark wakes up on her 16th birthday to find her parents dead at the breakfast table, along with a message from their killer. A twist of fate Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen join the investigation, but the more they discover, the more Jazzy suspects that the killing is a twisted message for her. Jazzy shares the same birthday as Imogen, and believes that this is more than a coincidence. A race to catch a killer When Jazzy discovers the connection between the killer and the stalker who has been following her for years, she is forced to confront the dark past she was desperate to keep hidden. She must stop at nothing to solve the case, before she becomes the next victim. Overall Liz Mistry’s The Blood Promise is a thrilling and immersive crime novel that will keep readers guessing until the very end.With its compelling characters, twisty plot, and atmospheric setting. I would like to say a big thank you to publishers HQ Stories, for kindly letting me read and this fantastic book on netgalley which I’ve enjoyed reading and reviewing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Liz Mistry
Liz Mistry moved to West Yorkshire in the late 1980s. Her gritty crime fiction police procedural novels set in Bradford embrace the city she describes as ‘Warm, Rich and Fearless’ whilst exploring the darkness that lurks beneath. Yet, her heart remains in Scotland, where childhood tales of bogey men, Bible John and grey lady ghosts fed her imagination. Her latest work, The Solanki and McQueen crime series is set around West Lothian, where she uses the distinctive landscape, historic heritage and Scottish culture as a backdrop to her gritty yet often humorous stories. Struggling with clinical depression and anxiety for many years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. She credits her MA in Creative Writing from Leeds Trinity University with helping her find a way of using her writing to navigate her ongoing mental health struggles. The synergy been creative and academic writing led Liz to complete a doctorate in creative writing researching the importance of representation of marginalised groups within the genre she loves. Her husband, three children and huge extended British Indian family are a constant support to her. In her spare time, Liz loves visiting the varied Scottish and Yorkshire landscape, travelling, listening to music, reading and blogging about all things crime fiction on her website blog, The Crime Warp.
Arriving at the station with her boyfriend Davey MacGregor and his twin sisters, Ailsa and Juliette, Hetty, a thriller book addict, picks up on family tension. But that’s natural before a big wedding, isn’t it? Hetty feels out of her depth. The family are wealthy and well-educated, whereas she is a council house girl. Davey’s cousin Isabelle is to marry Jean-Jacques, a French right-wing politician, in the family chateau.
A fairy-tale event
Ailsa is hesitant about coming back to France. Eight years ago, something happened that nearly destroyed the family. But that was dealt with, wasn’t it? Hetty has secrets of her own that she doesn’t want known. Ailsa is drawn back into the past. What, exactly, did happen? The expensive wedding is everything it should be, except when the groom is taken ill. The revellers carry on, but something is seriously wrong.
Then things start to unravel
The relationships between the family members fracture and secrets from the past start coming to the surface, with murderous results… Who is telling the truth? Who is out for revenge?
My thoughts about Hilly Barmby’s Never Forgive You I’m Left speechless after the truly thought provoking roller coaster ride, Hilly Barmby’s thriller truly blows you away. This is what I would recommend to any fellow thriller fan out with a thirst for a masterpiece of hard hitting mystery thriller. Hilly Barmby’s Never Forgive You is fun to read, and is at the top notch for all right the reasons. The plot of the book stays strong and interesting till the last frame. The story of Hilly Barmby’s Never Forgive You begins with arriving at the station with her boyfriend Davey MacGregor and his twin sisters, Ailsa and Juliette, Hetty, a thriller book addict, picks up on family tension. But that’s natural before a big wedding, isn’t it? Hetty feels out of her depth. The family are wealthy and well-educated, whereas she is a council house girl. Davey’s cousin Isabelle is to marry Jean-Jacques, a French right-wing politician, in the family chateau. Ailsa is hesitant about coming back to France. Eight years ago, something happened that nearly destroyed the family. But that was dealt with, wasn’t it? Hetty has secrets of her own that she doesn’t want known. Ailsa is drawn back into the past. What, exactly, did happen? The expensive wedding is everything it should be, except when the groom is taken ill. The revellers carry on, but something is seriously wrong. The relationships between the family members fracture and secrets from the past start coming to the surface, with murderous results. Who is telling the truth? Who is out for revenge. Overall, Hilly Barmby’s Never Forgive You is an engaging whodunit with broad appeal. The book effectively sustains with its suspenseful atmosphere, keeping you hooked as they unravel the mystery. And book delivers on its promise to keep reader’s guessing until the very end. I would like to say a big thank you to Adrian And Rebecca, for kindly sending me a gifted copy for me to read and review this brilliant book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥
About Author Hilly Barmby
At the age of seventeen, having been told by her English Literature teacher to sit on her hands in lessons, as she spoke more eloquently with them than actual words, Hilly decided to prove her wrong. It started with a bout of terrible poetry and has finally culminated in the publication of her first novel. She is also a painter and ceramicist, and has a lady-shed in the middle of an organic fruit farm on a mountainside in southern Spain. She lives with her musician partner and two rescue dogs.
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