Category Murder Mystery

The Medici Murders by David Hewson @david_hewson @RandomTTours @canongatebooks #histfic #murder #mystery #bookreview

yvonnembee 8 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today of The Medici Murders by David Hewson. This is the first book in the Venetian Mystery series and I am looking forward to reading more of this one. This was a great intro to this author as it is the first of his books I have read.

My huge thanks to Anne at Random Things Tours for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my copy of this murder mystery from the publisher Canongate Books.

When a well-known British TV historian, Marmaduke Godolphin, is found murdered in the canals of Venice during carnival, stabbed by a stiletto blade, the Venetian police are eager to have the case solved and cleared up within a day – murder is bad for tourism!

The police recruit the help of retired archivist, Arnold Clover. Godolphin had hired his services on arriving in Venice to help sort through some historical papers of note. These dusty documents may contain previously unknown information about the assassination of the murderer, Lorenzino de’ Medici, 500 years previously.

How coincidental that Godolphin meets his death in the same place as the Medici murderer, Lorenzino, on a cold, dark, bloody night. Can Arnold use his powers of perception to establish a link and solve the murder of Godolphin?

MY REVIEW

This is a murder mystery that has the feel of a sleuthing-style whodunnit. A mix of a present-day murder that has been mixed with a historical fiction story, some of which is factual.

Duke Marmaduke is a historian who has become a TV celebrity, although his spotlight has waned over the years. Once he was in demand for his TV shows that made history more theatrical than necessarily true. He contacts others for help in discovering some documents that had been lost over time. One of these is Arnold, he has been a diligent archivist and has moved to Italy to retire. Arnold is a person who has always been in the background and the complete opposite of the loud and bullish Duke.

It is when those called, meet up that Duke reveals, well partly reveals his next project. He has been given documents that could shine a new light on an old murder. It is one that could have some interesting outcomes. When Duke is found dead in the canal, it shows similarities to the old murder, so who wants him dead? Arnold is asked to talk with a Captain who leads the investigation, it is this account that tells the story.

I liked this story and it is one that had me intrigued. I did find it a little slow at times but on the whole, it is an interesting story. It is one that had loads of twists and the author has set the stage with some very interesting characters. There are connections and these are told as there is a relevance to when the gathered group were at University. Duke was head of this group known as the Guilded Circle, Arnold was not part of this so it gives him an ideal perspective, an outsider that is looking in. I liked this a lot as it gave Arnold a spectator’s view as such and when he relates the information to the Captain he does so in a more neutral.

This is a mix of historical fact and the author does say at the end of the book that there is also his fictional slant on the mystery. It makes for an interesting and also quite addictive story. As I said I did find it slow, but as I got more used to the characters and their roles I found it gained pace.

This is one that fans of murder mystery genres would enjoy, it has a sleuthing vibe to it and while it does have a police presence it is not a police procedural. I must also mention the food that is consumed by the characters, there is quite a bit, but it does sound very mouthwatering and very Venetian.

A wonderfully twisted story that had me guessing and one I would happily recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Hewson is a former journalist with The Times, Sunday Times and Independent. He is the author of more than twenty-five novels, including his Rome-based Nic Costa series which has been published in fifteen languages, and his Amsterdam-based series featuring detective Pieter Vos. He has also written three acclaimed adaptations of the Danish TV series, The Killing. He lives near Canterbury in Kent. @david_hewson | davidhewson.com

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No Easy Answers by Robert Crouch @robertcrouchuk #mystery #crime #murder #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for No Easy Answers by Robert Crouch. This is the 9th book in the series and it is a series that I have adored from the very beginning. This is such an appropriate title for this book and there really are No Easy Answers for Kent Fisher.

My huge thanks to Rob for asking me to be part of his Book Launch and providing me with an e-copy of his book for my unbiased review.

Confronting the past can be deadly.
As Christmas approaches, murder is the last thing on Kent Fisher’s mind.
When contractors employed by local entrepreneur Stephen Fox discover the remains of a woman on the site of Kent’s original animal sanctuary, old family secrets come to light, threatening those closest to him.
Fox believes it’s his missing wife. Despite intense pressure and a lucrative fee, Kent still refuses to investigate, having promised not to take on more cases. But when the police launch a murder inquiry, can he keep his promise?
Or will he investigate?
If he does, he risks interfering with a criminal investigation and losing the woman he loves.
If he doesn’t, the wrong person could be accused of murder.

‘A fantastic series that just gets better and better.’

MY REVIEW

I have to say I really enjoyed this latest in the Kent Fisher Mysteries. While Kent is still trying to come to terms with the fact that his wife, Gemma, had disappeared and then found she still is not ready to come home to him. The previous book was one that was emotional for Kent and this left Gemma feeling betrayed. One thing he has agreed to do is to stop his investigating, it is something this retired Environmental Health Officer had done at the same time as running the Animal Sanctuary and working. Trying to focus more on the sanctuary is not as easy as it once was.

The sanctuary was literally Kent’s sanctuary, it grounded him and while he only just made ends meet, the animals were looked out for. The sanctuary has moved and morphed into something more financial. Over the series, I have come to know Kent and he really isn’t a people person but he has staff, volunteers and visitors coming at him from all directions. One visitor wants his help, it means breaking his word to Gemma.

The tension and stress of this story is one that is evident throughout. Kent is struggling to keep to his word but when a missing person becomes a victim then the rules change. Especially when it is somewhere close to his heart. With the police trying to tell him to back off, but also knowing how he can be of use, they have an understanding.

The mystery of the body is one that had me hooked, with so many twists it gives it that whodunnit feel, not enough to be a crime thriller but also too much to be a cosy mystery. I do like the balance that the author has found with his characters, there is an element of danger which keeps you on your toes, but not the massive blood and guts that you can get.

What the author does bring is a tale and investigation that is quite complex but not while you are reading it. It has a great flow and just rolls along at the right pace. There are so many red herrings but also lots of clues. I did wonder if I had guessed the identity of the killer, but I had no real idea as to how things were linked until a lot later in the story when the author allowed me to slot the pieces together.

The story is one that does focus on Kent and the investigation but also on his personal life. He is trying to juggle two and not always well. Kent has some tough decisions in this one, while he may not be a huge people person he also doesn’t like to upset them. He is going to have to do this though. Who it is and why is revealed in this fabulously addictive story. The ending that the author came up with for this book made me grin and I cannot think of a better one.

This is a brilliant series that I have followed from the beginning, I do like Kent and various other regular characters, and yes there is one or maybe two that do wind me up. Then life is made up of people like that!

This is another addictive read for fans of crime mystery novels that have a big sleuthing feel to them. This is one, well I think I say this for all the books in the series, it is one that is better read as part of the series to understand the larger picture that has been developed over each one. Fabulous story and series that I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert wanted to bring something fresh and original to the murder mystery novel.
He drew on his own extensive experience to create environmental health officer Kent Fisher, a different kind of sleuth to appeal to today’s readers. While neither a police officer nor a private detective, Kent has the enforcement skills, contacts and determination needed to tackle the most complex murders.
While Robert taps into his early experiences of injustice to explore the motivations that drive people to kill, he tempers this with irreverent humour and a hint of romance. A love of wildlife, nature and the environment help add a contemporary slant to the stories.
When not writing, Robert can be found walking among the gentle hills and the coast of the South Downs with his wife. Armed with a camera, or two, he likes to photograph the local wildlife and seek out settings for the next novel.
You can find out more about at his website, https://robertcrouch.co.uk, where you can also join his Readers Group for more news, insights and giveaways, including a free short story.

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Moon Over Soho by Ben Aaronovitch #RiversofLondon #fantasy #mystery #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for the 2nd book in the Rivers of London series. Moon Over Soho by Ben Aaronovitch sees Constable Peter Grant investigating the deaths of Jazz Men under the leadership of his mentor DCI Nightingale.

The song. That’s what London constable and sorcerer’s apprentice Peter Grant first notices when he examines the corpse of Cyrus Wilkins, part-time jazz drummer and full-time accountant, who dropped dead of a heart attack while playing a gig at Soho’s 606 Club. The notes of the old jazz standard are rising from the body—a sure sign that something about the man’s death was not at all natural but instead supernatural.

Body and soul. They’re also what Peter will risk as he investigates a pattern of similar deaths in and around Soho. With the help of his superior officer, Detective Chief Inspector Thomas Nightingale, the last registered wizard in England, and the assistance of beautiful jazz aficionado Simone Fitzwilliam, Peter will uncover a deadly magical menace—one that leads right to his own doorstep and to the squandered promise of a young jazz musician: a talented trumpet player named Richard “Lord” Grant—otherwise known as Peter’s dear old dad.

MY REVIEW

Having read the first book in the series, I knew I wanted to continue with this. Book 2 follows on from the first book and continues with the same humour and madcap antics of Constable Peter Grant. He is not only a constable but also an apprentice with one of the force’s most minor departments. It is run by one man who is supposed to take it easy.

Peter’s wingman was left with a large section of her jaw missing after being caught in a magical crossfire. While on leave, she offers to help Peter with his latest case. It has family connections. Jazz men are being murdered, and Peter can detect the remnants of music on their bodies. He has been brought in because of this and works alongside the ‘standard’ officers in the MET.

Once again this is a fabulous read, it is fast-paced and brings back some characters that I had met in the first book, those being the relations of Mother Thames. As Peter investigates he comes into contact with wanna-be Jazzmen, this is where his father’s love of Jazz comes into its own and it is why Peter is an invaluable asset in this case.

Where there is one body another will follow, and another and yeah you guessed it another. As the bodies line up the mystery deepens and some wonder what is behind these murders. It is a dark force and one that Peter is not equipped to stand up to, although he does try, dear of him! He is still in the early stages of learning his magical craft, and this is proving something that does need a lot of practice.

I think one of the things that I enjoy about this series is the way the magic sits side by side as such with the normal everyday stuff. Only certain people are aware of the department and it works well. Peter is not a mixer so he is rather suited to working with one other person.

I also really enjoy the journey around the streets of London, its back alleys, its dodgy areas and also all the other weird and wonderful things that the author brings into his story.

As I mentioned I am enjoying this series and it is one that fans of urban fantasy and mystery genres will most likely enjoy. I do think that reading this series in order is good as the first book gives a great basis for the characters and the way things work. Fabulous second book and I am looking forward to the next one. I would definitely recommend this and the first book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ben Aaronovitch’s career started with a bang writing for Doctor Who, subsided in the middle and then, as is traditional, a third act resurgence with the bestselling Rivers of London series.

Born and raised in London he says that he’ll leave his home when they prise his city out of his cold dead fingers.

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A Truth for a Truth by Carol Wyer @carolwyer @zooloosBT #policeprocedural #crime #thriller #bookreview

yvonnembee 6 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for A Truth for a Truth by Carol Wyer. This is the 4th book in this series and I do urge that you read these in order. The main character has a unique something about her! 🙂

My huge thanks to Zoe at Zooloos Book Tours for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of this fabulous book.

DI Kate Young’s team is hunting for a killer. What they don’t know…is that the killer is her.

DI Kate Young has known for years that her boss, Superintendent John Dickson, is a violent and evil man. But when she finally confronts him and accidentally shoots and kills him, she’s forced to cover her tracks before anyone can pin his death on her. With revelations about his corruption soon to become public knowledge, Kate sets up a trail of evidence to make it seem that Dickson has conveniently vanished…

But Kate knows the corruption doesn’t end with Dickson. As she heads up the team investigating his supposed disappearance, she also pursues other loose ends. Stanka, the sex worker who supplied the evidence against Dickson, leads her to crucial information on another corrupt officer, DI Harriet Khatri, and her dubious involvement with sex traffickers.

As the noose starts to tighten on Kate, she finds herself targeted by traffickers, the bent cops on her force and even her own team of detectives. Can she stay one step ahead of them all and bring Harriet to justice? Can she trust anyone around her? And can she possibly get away with murder?

MY REVIEW

Oh my goodness this series is amazing. It is one of those that you really should read in order as there is something about its main character that does need to be understood. Detective Kate Young has dealt with some tough stuff while working for Superintendant John Dickson. She has some information about him that she knows will have repercussions if it gets out. Trying to get the final pieces of information and to prove his guilt she arranged to meet him. After a tussle, he gets shot.

Understanding what makes Kate tick is key to this story as well as the ongoing storyline about the death of her husband, the sex traffickers and a girl she saved and befriended is something that is explained in previous books, they are all brilliant reads by the way!

As Kate tries to keep her cool she is also tasked with finding the man she killed. Balancing her emotions is tough and she is constantly walking on eggshells, trying not to slip up, making sure she has covered all the bases. trying to work in an open and honest way with her team and also keeping things secret is pulling her apart.

The investigations that are running and the people involved could make this a very confusing book, that is if I were to try to explain it in more detail. Luckily for us, we have the wonderful ability of the author to keep the lines clear and not muddy the waters. It makes for a story that flows and weaves its way through those involved and brings others into this evolving plot.

This is a tense thriller and the psychological aspect of it is so good. It gives a nice twist to the character of Kate and gives her her own special trait. The others in her team have their roles to play and they also have their own storylines, not as prominent but they are there.

Doubt, distrust and suspicion are evident on every page and this adds to the thrill of the story. Kate herself is someone who you should be able to trust, but she is definitely overstepping the line. Once this would never be an issue, but now… who knows how far she will go!

This is one that will appeal to fans of police procedurals and crime thriller stories. I do seriously suggest reading this in order to be able to get the full realisation of how Kate works and for the ongoing storylines. Another brilliant book in a brilliant series that I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA Today bestselling author and winner of The People’s Book Prize Award, Carol Wyer’s crime novels have sold over one million copies and been translated into nine languages.

A move from humour to the ‘dark side’ in 2017, saw the introduction of popular DI Robyn Carter in Little Girl Lost and proved that Carol had found her true niche.

In 2021, An Eye For An Eye, the first in the DI Kate Young series, was chosen as a Kindle First Reads. It became the #1 bestselling book on Amazon UK and Australia. The third, A Life For A Life, is due out March 15th, 2022, but is available to preorder.

Carol has had articles published in national magazines ‘Woman’s Weekly’, featured in ‘Take A Break’, ‘Choice’, ‘Yours’ and ‘Woman’s Own’ magazines and written for the Huffington Post. She’s also been interviewed on numerous radio shows and on BBC Breakfast television.

She currently lives on a windy hill in rural Staffordshire with her husband Mr. Grumpy who is very, very grumpy.

When not plotting devious murders, she can be found performing her comedy routine, Smile While You Still Have Teeth.

To learn more, go to www.carolwyer.co.uk

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The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz @juliabartz @RandomThingsTours @OneworldNews @PointBlankCrime #crime #thriller #murder #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz. This is a wonderful book and it will make you think twice about going on a retreat!

My huge thanks to Anne at Random Things Tours for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my copy of the book from Magpie Publishers.

There was no radio. No phone. No connection to the outside world. We were completely on our own.

Alex, a struggling young writer, is delighted to join four other hopefuls at a month-long writing retreat with Roza Vallo, the controversial high priestess of feminist horror.

At the remote Blackbriar estate, they discover they must complete an entire novel from scratch, and the best one will receive a seven-figure publishing deal. Alex’s longed-for dream now seems within reach.

But then the women begin to die. Trapped, terrified, yet still desperately writing, it’s clear there is more than a publishing deal at stake. Alex must confront her own demons – and finish her novel – to survive.

It seemed so perfect, but turned out to be every writer’s worst nightmare…

MY REVIEW

This is a very dark read. A writing retreat run by Roza, a renowned author sounds great and it is in her own mansion. The mansion is isolated and becomes more inaccessible as the winter weather develops. The mansion also has a story of its own!

There are five female budding authors at this retreat along with a small staff and of course the author. The idea is that this retreat will give these five women a chance to work on a story, get tips and advice as they go and hopefully come away with a publishing deal.

As I mentioned this is dark, and the history of the mansion gradually emerges in one of the stories. The main focus is on Alex, she knows one of the other women and they have a history that isn’t as friendly or as close as it was. The other women are all unknown, but five women don’t really pair off as there is always going to be an odd one out.

As the author brings her characters out and explains the reasons for the retreat and also shows Roza’s character to be more unexpected than you first realise.

This is a tense thriller that is also full of mystery and intrigue. With the story of the property, of Roza and the other women there is also another story that gradually emerges. It is a busy story but one that is at all times controlled, I do think the author has done a brilliant job with keeping all the threads clear, and each of the characters has their own part, although not always that obvious at the beginning.

I really enjoyed this one and at times it really had me on edge, this does have a twisted mystery element to it as well as being a thriller. A great read for me with this author and it is one I would happily recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julia Bartz is a Brooklyn-based writer and practicing therapist. Her sister, Andrea Bartz is a New York Times bestselling writer (most recently with We Were Never Here.) She is the author of the popular Psychology Today blog ‘My Pleasure: The New Science of Sex, Dating, and Self-Care’ and previously ran the Brooklyn literary blog BookStalker. Her fiction has been published in the South Dakota Review, FictionDaily and InDigest Magazine and has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. The Writing Retreat is Julia’s first novel.

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Red Light and Bell by Richard Cobourne @RichardCobourne @CameronTweets @RandomTTours #crime #thriller #

yvonnembee 4 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for Red Light and Bell by Richard Cobourne. This is the second in the trilogy and if you have not come across this one yet, you should look. Here is my review of the first book Band Wagon.

My huge thanks to Anne at Random Things Tours for organising my spot on the tour and for my copies of the first two amazing books.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Real people, real events, real organisations, and real places are frequently mentioned in this trilogy – there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing, they are there solely to add authenticity and context, nothing more. You may like to think that this is entirely a work of fiction – but that’s up to you…

Daisy DeVilliers, celebrity PR, and Danny Owen, former investigative journalist, sit hand-in-hand in the VIP seats enjoying the much-anticipated return of global pop-megastar Martha. Following the kidnapping and dramatic rescue of the star and her sister, neither thought this glamorous night would ever happen. The ecstatic audience are demanding encore-after-encore. Martha is back!

As the final notes die away, there is pandemonium ― the police sergeant seated next to Daisy is assassinated by a sniper. Daisy is covered in blood and gore. Martha is unwillingly bundled off the stage to safety. But why was the police sergeant killed? Mistaken identity or deliberate act? Who orchestrated the murder and why? Soon Daisy and Danny are forced out of their comfort zones from show business into a world of high-level corruption, international organised crime, attempted cover-ups, and governmental chest-stabbing ― all too believable with our current politicians and parties.

Featuring well-informed behind-the-scenes entertainment action ― who to trust in the duplicitous world where celebrity, the police, security services, and politics collide? This exciting page-turner takes you far and wide to Elstree Studios, the 02 Arena, the Houses of Parliament, inside the Security Services, and to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

MY REVIEW

Red Light and Bell is the second book in this trilogy, it does continue on from the first book Band Wagon. I suppose you could read this second book as a stand-alone, but I would definitely suggest reading these in order as they are both fabulous.

After Martha and her sister had been kidnapped and then released, and also after the potential people trafficking had been stopped Nowak believes he has nothing to worry about. He thinks the debt he owes has disappeared into the ether and he is free and clear to start making some money from the Movin’ Out Tour that Martha is due to perform.

That is until a police officer is shot during the opening tour!

Once again this author has absolutely delivered a fast-paced, entertaining and action-packed story. Martha is just getting back on her feet and looking forward to her new tour and this latest blow knocks her confidence. The PR machine in the form of Daisy works hard to find a balance between supporting Marths, the victim of the shooting and supporting others when needed. A good job then that her boyfriend Danny is there watching her back.

In the first book a scheme was hatched in the past Nowak, it showed how he had been able to get away with crimes and never be convicted. He is shady and dangerous as Danny knows only too well. This is where reading the first book definitely does help with the back story and the character dynamics.

Having corruption included in this story is such a great angle, and it is something that the author has worked on so well. Not only is it a story full of showbiz glitz and glamour, but it is also dirty and underhanded. It makes for riveting reading.

There are some subplots going on in this trilogy and this book helps to develop further. It is gradually building up the suspense and drama at a fast rate of knots. This book leaves the reader hanging on a precipice and wondering what is going to become of the characters. There is an ever-present danger that is lurking and I think it still has more to reveal. It has made me eager to get my hands on the final book.

This is great for people who like to mix the genres up. A sort of procedural as there is a police presence, the investigation side, the showbiz and then there is the corruption, conspiracy, lies and the overall thrill of reading this fast-paced book. A book and trilogy that I would definitely recommend reading.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Richard Cobourne writes with a production background in the broadcast, corporate, music and global events and communications industries. He has worked in the business-of-show all over the world for many years – and as a result has a deep understanding of the shenanigans of the industry. He began his career working for the BBC, initially in the sound department of radio, TV, and outside broadcasts. After fifteen years he left to co-found On Screen Productions Ltd, which he sold in 2015 to pursue a career as a freelance consultant creative producer, occasional voice artist, and to enable him to write full-time. He is a member of The Ivy Club, BAFTA and the National Liberal Club.

This is the second novel in the showbiz thriller trilogy. The third, maybe final (who knows?), is in progress.
Richard Cobourne lives with his wife on the Welsh side of the Wye Valley and in Fuerteventura.

The author can be contacted via http://www.Cobourne.com
PREVIOUSLY
FICTION

  • Bandwagon (the first Danny and Daisy showbiz thriller)
    NON-FICTION
  • The History of Castration
  • The History of Diabetes
  • The History of Contraception
  • The Cardio-Protective Effect of Wine

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The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels by Janice Hallett #suspense #mystery #bookreview

yvonnembee 6 Comments

I am delighted to share my review of The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels by Janice Hallett. I had seen so many good things about this book I bought a copy to see just how good it was. And, yes it was very good indeed 🙂

Open the safe deposit box. Inside you will find research material for a true crime book. You must read the documents, then make a decision. Will you destroy them? Or will you take them to the police?

Everyone knows the story of the Alperton Angels: the cult-like group who were convinced one of their member’s babies was the anti-Christ, and they had a divine mission to kill it – until the baby’s mother, Holly, came to her senses and called the police. The Angels committed suicide rather than go to prison, and Holly – and the baby – disappeared into the care system.

Nearly two decades later, true-crime author Amanda Bailey is writing a book on the Angels. The Alperton baby has turned eighteen and can finally be interviewed – if Amanda can find them, it will be the true-crime scoop of the year, and will save her flagging career. But rival author Oliver Menzies is just as smart, better connected, and is also on the baby’s trail.

As Amanda and Oliver are forced to collaborate, they realise that what everyone thinks they know about the Angels is wrong, and the truth is something much darker and stranger than they’d ever imagined.

This story is far from over – and it won’t have a happy ending.

MY REVIEW

I have seen this book around so much since its release and I decided to jump on the bandwagon to see if it was as good as it looked. It most definitely was and so much more than I realised it would be. I will mention that this is not a straightforward book, the story is made up of emails, messages, transcripts, post-it notes, emails, documents and reports. I have read several books that have been written this way and enjoy this style.

For a book that is written via messages, pieces of text and no conversations as such, the flow of this story is amazing. Two authors are pushed together to write a book each about the infamous Alperton Angels, a small cult that ended when the leader was arrested for murder, two of the cult got away, and three if you also include the baby. Oh, and the three other members are also dead and mutilated. And further murders have happened in recent times to add even more confusion and mystery for the two authors to dig through.

This is a cleverly laid out and written book, it had me going in circles along with the fictional authors as I was gradually drawn into a story that already sounded bad but then turned into something more evil and extreme. The mystery is amazing when it is finally realised, and I did not see that from the beginning of the book. There are things that are red herrings, but then they are not, people who are what you think they are and then they are not, places and dates are confusing and even though this who thing sounds very confusing, while you are reading the book it isn’t. This is why I think this has been very cleverly done, if it hadn’t been, well… it wouldn’t have worked.

The story involves several people as they give their information, some can be trusted, others not so much. There are many twists and I am finding it really difficult to write a review that makes sense. So what I am going to say is, if you like a murder mystery that is dark and just throws twists left, right and centre, then you really do need to read it.

Brilliant book and I have a feeling this might be worth listening to as an audiobook. It definitely kept me occupied and I would definitely recommend it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Janice Hallett is a former magazine editor, award-winning journalist, and government communications writer. She wrote articles and speeches for, among others, the Cabinet Office, Home Office, and Department for International Development. Her enthusiasm for travel has taken her around the world several times, from Madagascar to the Galapagos, Guatemala to Zimbabwe, Japan, Russia, and South Korea. A playwright and screenwriter, she penned the feminist Shakespearean stage comedy NetherBard and co-wrote the feature film Retreat. The Appeal is her first novel.

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The Last by Hannah Jameson #dystopian #apocalyptic #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for The Last by Hannah Jameson. I have seen this book around and then was lucky enough to find a copy in our local community book swap.

THE WORLD HAS ENDED IN NUCLEAR WAR.

You and nineteen other survivors hole up in an isolated Swiss hotel.

You wait, you survive.

Then you find the body.

One of your number has blood on their hands.

The race is on to find the killer…

BEFORE THE KILLER FINDS YOU.

MY REVIEW

I enjoy dystopian or near-future novels, and The Last cover definitely caught my eye. A hotel in Switzerland is the setting, news of nuclear bombs exploding over certain parts of the US, and Europe and the decision about what to do next is the main premise for this story.

Oh, I also forgot to mention that a body is discovered under suspicious circumstances!

While this book is set in the aftermath of a nuclear explosion the focus of the story is on those who decided to remain at the hotel rather than risk the unknown. News reports, social media, internet are all gone, all people have to go on is the last things that were sent as bombs landed. Not knowing all the facts make sit very hard to work out what to do next.

With the discovery of the body though, the story focuses on one man’s decision to try and discover who was responsible for the death while at the same time keeping a journal of what is happening over the course of the following days. This gives the air of a locked-room mystery as the hotel and the suspects, or guests as they should be referred to, are isolated.

The author has done a wonderful job of giving a sense of isolation and also coming to terms with the fact that the world they once knew has gone. There are mentions of things being organised such as food, hunting parties, and basic stuff like that, but this is mentioned in the form of the journal notes.

This is a story that has many twists and I did enjoy the style of the book and the mystery element to it. Yes, it is dystopian but actually more mystery with a good suspense vibe to it. If you are a fan of murder mystery stories in isolated settings that do have a thriller sense to them rather than a cosy mystery then this is one that you may like. I enjoyed it and I would happily recommend it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hanna Jameson’s fourth novel, part murder mystery and part post-apocalyptic thriller – THE LAST – is out early 2019, with Viking UK and Simon & Schuster – Atria Books US. The Last is the story of an American academic searching for the truth about a girl who has been murdered in his Swiss hotel in the aftermath of a nuclear war that has destroyed most of the Western world.

Jameson had written the first draft of her debut, award-nominated novel – SOMETHING YOU ARE – at just seventeen. Something You Are and two further novels in the series – GIRL SEVEN and ROAD KILL – are available now in the UK, Germany, Japan, and the Netherlands.

She lives in London currently, and is working on screenwriting projects. She likes whiskey, history, and emotionally taxing TV shows.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

The Night Man by Jørn Lier Horst @MichaelJBooks #thriller #crime #policeprocedural #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for The Night Man by Jørn Lier Horst. I was fortunate to win a hardback copy of this book over on Twitter from the publisher Penguin Michael Joseph just before Christmas.

It is only as I write up this post that I have noticed that it is also a TV series on BBC4 so I will be having a look at that at some point.

WILLIAM WISTING IS IN A RACE AGAINST TIME

When a severed head is found on a stake in the quiet town of Larvik, Police Inspector William Wisting is called in to investigate. The only clue? The killer is trying to send a message.

ALL ROADS LEAD BACK TO THE NIGHT MAN

As the media closes in on the biggest story of the year, Wisting’s journalist daughter Line receives a tip. Soon, it becomes clear that there is more to this case than anyone thought. A criminal network has lodged itself deep into the roots of the city, and it’s up to Wisting to take down the elusive and dangerous Night Man.

THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING

But hunting down The Night Man will take everything Wisting has, and it’s all too easy for the hunter to become the prey . . .

MY REVIEW

This was a brilliantly atmospheric and tense crime thriller and the first book I have read in this series. The main character is Larvik Wisting, who is tested to his limits in his latest case. He also gets to work alongside his daughter who has returned home to delve into the subject for her newspaper.

It is only now as I write this review that I had a glance at the author’s bio, after reading the book I am not surprised that he has a police background. He is a Senior Investigating officer in the Norweigian Police Force, I do think his experience shows in his writing.

The story was gripping from the outset and I did find it easy to get to grips with the characters given that this is not the first in the series. There are some mentions of backstories that I assume have been dealt with in previous books, and while it is always great to read in order this one works well as a standalone.

As the synopsis suggests this is a case that has a brutal start, a head placed on a spike is discovered. Wisting’s daughter also has leads but neither one realises how far this case will go and what it will eventually involve. There is far more to this story than the synopsis lets on so I have to be super careful not to let anything slip. The cases are linked but how and for what ends is something that becomes a brilliant journey for the reader.

I did like the character of Wisting, he is a detective that is willing to ask for help and listens to others. This is something that needs to happen given the route this author takes with this story. While this is based mainly in Norway, there are clues that lead further afield. As for who the Night Man is, well, I am keeping quiet about that one but it wasn’t what I thought it would be.

I really enjoyed this book and it was great to discover a new series I look forward to reading more from this author. This is a book that fans of crime thrillers and police procedurals will adore, a twisted and unexpected storyline and one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jorn Lier Horst (born in Bamble, Telemark 1970) is a former Senior Investigating Officer at the Norwegian police force. He made his literary debut as a crime writer in 2004 and is considered one of the foremost Nordic crime writers.

His series of mystery novels starring chief inspector William Wisting provides a detailed and authentic insight into how criminal cases are investigated and how it affects those involved, whether private or professional. The books represent a simple and accurate picture of the modern Nordic societies and is characterized by political and social commentary subtext.

MANY THANKS FOR READING MY POST, A LIKE OR SHARE WOULD BE AMAZING 🙂 XX

Don’t Turn Around by Caroline Mitchell #policeprocedural #crime #mystery #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for Don’t Turn Around by Caroline Mitchell. This is the first book in the Detective Jennifer Knight series and it was an excellent crime thriller with a twist!

You don’t know him. But he knows you.

Soon he would be able to touch her, to feel the warmth of her blood. And when the time came, nothing would stop him.

As D.C. Jennifer Knight investigates a routine stabbing in the quiet town of Haven, she is shocked at what seems like a personal message from beyond the grave.
When more bodies are found, Jennifer is convinced the killings are somehow linked. What she discovers is more chilling than she could possibly imagine. The murders mirror those of the notorious Grim Reaper – from over twenty years ago. A killer her mother helped convict.

Jennifer can no longer ignore the personal connection. Is there a copycat killer at work? Was the wrong man convicted? Or is there something more sinister at play …

With her mother’s terrifying legacy spiralling out of control, Jennifer must look into her own dark past in a fight not only to stop a killer – but to save herself and those she loves. 

MY REVIEW

I have recently read a book by this author and really enjoyed it. I often see her books being reviewed and they always intrigue me, I do have several books that I have bought based on those reviews, but I still need to read them!

It was good to start this series from the beginning, it’s not something I do often. Meeting Detective Jennifer Knight was an interesting experience. She works in Haven with fellow officer Will. They have a good working relationship and the banter between them attests to this. There is however something about Knight that means she is not really seen as a ‘proper detective’ as such, I mean she is but she is one that has been shunted down the pecking order and not given important cases, her partner Will is given the same sort of treatment.

Knight has a unique gift and this is something that gives her trouble but also makes her stand out as being different, not in a good way either. Others are suspicious of her for various reasons and I think they don’t see her as being stable enough to have their backs.

As the synopsis suggests, the duo have been given a case, it is one that could have links to other cases and maybe the past. The thing is with the past, you are never sure if it’s the right route to go down or if you are just trying to make things fit. Then, of course, there is that question… who is the past linked to?

This is a really good story and it is one that takes on some interesting turns, there is a paranormal or supernatural element to it, and I do know that this can put some people off but it is done in a very good way. Not corny or tongue-in-cheek and it does work well.

I enjoyed this a lot and it is definitely a series that I will be continuing. Great for those who like police procedurals, crime and thriller stories and also ones with a twist. It is one I would happily recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post and International #1 Bestselling Author. Shortlisted by the International Thriller Awards for best ebook 2017 and the Killer Nashville Best Police Procedural 2018. Over 1.5 million books sold.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share owudl be amazing 🙂 xx