#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions are my own, gifted in exchange for a review. I choose authors titles and genres I enjoy. Life’s too short for boring books.

BURNT OUT SECRETS an absolutely gripping crime mystery with a massive twist (Detective Rutherford Barnes Mysteries Book 3) MEET DETECTIVE RUTHERFORD BARNES IN THIS BRILLIANT CRIME SERIES FROM A SERVING POLICE OFFICER. An absolutely gripping crime thriller with a massive twist.

For five long years, Detective Barnes has been hunting the killer of the person he cared about the most. Now, the one man who could have revealed the truth is dead. His charred and blackened body is all that remains in his burnt-out flat.
A week later, a desperate, emaciated young woman hammers on the door of a late-night convenience store. She speaks no English — but it’s clear that she’s terrified — and running for her life. It’s only Barnes who connects the two events. He and his new boss, Superintendent Samson Kane, team up to uncover the truth. Their investigations stir up dangerous undercurrents within Eastbourne’s criminal community. And the two police detectives are vulnerable. Both Barnes and Kane have secrets in their pasts. Secrets which look set to catch up with them . . . with horrifying consequences.

Perfect for fans of Joy Ellis, Helen H. Durrant, Peter James, Angela Marsons and Rachel McLean.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT ADAM LYNDON:

Packed full of unexpected twists and turns. Sheila M. Pulled me in and held me to the end.’ Dawn T. ‘Very good and gripping.’ Kay C. Some really convoluted twists and turns. I loved it.’ Rob
‘Excellent sense of place, strong characterisation . . . authentic and detailed police procedure, and a thrilling denouement.’ Oliver T. A real page-turner. I thoroughly enjoyed it.’ Mike B. Cracking good police story. Complex and twisty.’ Joan

The Detectives DI Rutherford Barnes was an ambitious, idealistic young police constable when he first joined the force. His eleven years with the police have left him disillusioned, world-weary and a touch cynical. He’s a dedicated police officer, although in the course of his career, he’s made mistakes and ruffled too many feathers — and is no longer on the fast track to promotion.

Superintendent Samson Kane, with his piercing, almost silver eyes, spiky punk hairdo and swathe of tattoos, isn’t a natural fit in the modern police service. After a colourful career in business, he’s been parachuted into the senior ranks through a new lateral-entry scheme. But although he lacks experience, his unconventional thinking means he’s given to flashes of insight that elude other cops. People talk to Samson — he has an ability to connect with the public — and an instinct for tapping into the streets and getting them to play his tune.

THE SETTING
Set against the picturesque landscape of the South Downs, the Sussex seaside town of Eastbourne is packed with tourists during the summer — but it can seem pretty dismal during the winter months. Only fifty-odd miles from London, the town is not immune to the violence which occasionally spills over from the city. Pockets of deprivation and criminality exist alongside reminders of Eastbourne’s more genteel past in the grand Victorian hotels that line the seafront, the pier and the bandstand. The town also boasts one of Britain’s best-known — and most infamous — beauty spots, Beachy Head.

THE AUTHOR
Adam Lyndon has been a serving UK police officer for more than twenty years, working across a range of disciplines including uniformed ops, firearms command and as a detective in CID and specialist investigations.

ADAM LYNDON
Adam was born and raised in Sussex. He has been a police officer for twenty years both in the UK and in New Zealand, working across a range of disciplines including uniformed ops, firearms command and as a detective in CID and specialist investigations.
He went around the world a couple of times, living in New Zealand for a year before realising home was where all the stories were. Adam writes gritty, Eastbourne-based police-procedurals with hard-edged authenticity, forming a daisy chain along the south coast alongside the likes of Graham Hurley and Peter James. He has been married for twenty years and has four children. His ambition, as his children keep reminding him, is to own a dog.
BOOKS BY ADAM LYNDON
DETECTIVE RUTHERFORD BARNES MYSTERIES:
· DEVIL’S CHIMNEY
· BEACHY HEAD
· BURNT OUT SECRETS

My Review I’ve read one or two of Adams books before so I know before starting this book, it’s more complex and a more serious read. While you have the main plot, you also have a few side stories floating around, meaning I need to pay attention more than other books. Divided into three parts, stick with it as it all joins up in the end. Believable characters in the most part, except maybe the newest character. However that might be my presumption that they wouldn’t hire someone like that. The policing feels very authentic and gritty, with real world issues. Not a miss Marple murder mystery, a lot more complex and dark.

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This week I won a fabulous trilogy of Nora Roberts Books, on Twitter, Nora Roberts is an author I have always enjoyed, and use to avidly read before my hip saga journey began in 2009. Having so many surgeries and being housebound for so long stopped me from going to the library. So I abruptly stopped being a bookworm.

So winning these are like returning to pre surgery me, and I’m super pleased. I love the magickal content, a touch of romance, and some history, with a hint of mystery. I love how they all connect. Very different to my usual style of reading, so it’s like a breath of fresh air.

Book One DANCE UPON THE AIR When Nell Channing arrives on charming Three Sisters Island, she believes that she’s finally found refuge from her abusive husband–and from the terrifying life she fled so desperately eight months ago…

But even in this quiet, peaceful place, Nell never feels entirely at ease. Careful to conceal her true identity, she takes a job as a cook at the local bookstore cafe–and begins to explore her feelings for the island sheriff, Zack Todd. But there is a part of herself she can never reveal to him–for she must continue to guard her secrets if she wants to keep the past at bay. One careless word, one misplaced confidence, and the new life she’s created so carefully could shatter completely.

Just as Nell starts to wonder if she’ll ever be able to break free of her fear, she realizes that the island suffers under a terrible curse–one that can only be broken by the descendants of the Three Sisters, the witches who settled the island back in 1692. And now, with the help of two other strong, gifted women–and with the nightmares of the past haunting her every step–she must find the power to save her home, her love…and herself…

Book Two HEAVEN AND EARTH Ripley Todd just wants to live a quiet, peaceful kind of life. Her job as a sheriff’s deputy keeps her busy and happy, and she has no trouble finding men when she wants them – which, lately, isn’t all that often. She’s perfectly content, except for one thing: she has special powers that both frighten and confuse her, and though she tries hard to hide them, she can’t get them under control. Distraction soon arrives in the handsome form of Mac Allister Booke – a researcher who’s come to investigate the rumours of witchcraft that haunt Three Sisters Island. Right from the start, he knows there’s something extraordinary about Ripley Todd. It’s not just her blazing green eyes and her sultry smile. There’s something else. Something he can detect, but she’ll never admit. Fascinated by her struggle with her amazing abilities, he becomes determined to help her accept who she is – and find the courage to open her heart. But before Ripley and Mac can dream of what lies in the future, they must confront the pain of the past. For the island shelters centuries of secrets – and a legacy of danger that plagues them still.

Book Three FACE THE FIRE Mia Devlin knows what it is like to love with your whole heart—and then watch your love walk away. Years ago, she and Sam Logan shared an incredible bond built on passion, legend, and fate. But then one day he fled Three Sisters Island, leaving her lost in memories of the magic they shared—and determined to live without love.

The new owner of the island’s only hotel, Sam has returned to Three Sisters with hopes of winning back Mia’s affections. He is puzzled when she greets him with icy indifference—for the chemistry between them is still sizzling and true. Angry, hurt and deeply confused, Mia refuses to admit that a passion for Sam still burns in her heart. But she’ll need his help—and his powers—to face her greatest, most terrifying challenge. And as the deadline for breaking a centuries-old curse draws near, they must take the first steps toward destiny—and come together to turn back the dark….

#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions be are my own, I choose books based on the genre and authors I like.

MURDER AMONG THE ROSES by Liz Fielding

DISCOVER YOUR NEW FAVOURITE COZY MURDER MYSTERY

In the peaceful village of Maybridge, you wouldn’t expect to find a dead body in the rose garden. And certainly not two.

Abby Finch is horrified to discover the bones of a baby long-since buried under a rose bush in the garden of her soon-to-be ex-husband Howard’s family home.

She immediately calls the police but she can’t get hold of Howard. He’s off on a jolly with the very pregnant soon-to-be new Mrs Finch.

Abby will do whatever it takes to keep things cordial for the sake of her three children. But when Howard learns the press have found out, he’s livid. He accuses Abby of sabotaging his fledgling political campaign.

And then, just two days later, Abby finds Howard himself.
Lying dead in the very same rose garden.
Throat slashed with her own garden spade.

Now Abby is the prime suspect.

Somebody in this quiet village is hiding a dark secret. And Abby will have to dig deep to uncover the truth.

Fans of Faith Martin, Jane Adams, Frances Evesham, M.C. Beaton, Clare Chase or Jeanne M. Dams will love this addictive cozy mystery!

LIZ FIELDING
Award winning author Liz Fielding was born with itchy feet. She was working in Zambia before her twenty-first birthday and, gathering her own special hero and a couple of children on the way, has lived in Botswana, Kenya and the Middle East, all of which have provided rich inspiration for her writing.
She has written more than seventy books, several of which have won awards, and sold over 15 million copies. In 2019 she was honoured with the Romantic Novelists’ Association Outstanding Career Award. She lives in West Sussex.
BOOKS BY LIZ FIELDING:
COMING SOON!
FOLLOW LIZ ON:
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My Review a bit more of a romantic mystery than traditional murder mystery. However I thoroughly enjoyed this cosy crime read, the added touch of a historical murder to solve with a present day one was woven into a perfect plot. The characters were easily relatable and likeable, which helps the read go so fast and easy. The pace in the book was the right speed, some can be break neck speeds and you don’t know if you are coming or going! This gave you time to ponder and digest clues and avenues and possible red herrings,before steering you into a different direction. Incredible writing, would definitely read more by this author.

#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions are my own, I read the genres I enjoy and know will interest me.

MURDER IN THE PARISH (Detective Hillary Greene #20) by Faith Martin

ONE OF THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE DETECTIVES RETURNS.

SIX MILLION BOOKS READ.

A BRAND-NEW MYSTERY FROM THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR SET IN THE STUNNING OXFORDSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE.

Former Detective Hillary Greene and her cold case team are handed an impossible case.

Thirty years ago, two days before Christmas, the much-loved Reverend Keith Coltrane was hit over the head and left to die inside his own church. The killer was never caught.

This shocking crime took place in the pretty Oxfordshire village of Lower Barton. Everyone knows everyone else in this peaceful little community. Who would have wanted to harm the young Reverend, who was handsome and popular — especially with the ladies of the village? No one has a bad word to say about him — apart from his younger sister.

Now, Hillary and her team of misfits are ready to find out the truth. They uncover old secrets, jealousies and long-standing feuds in the village. Secrets someone will kill to keep hidden.

Hillary is also hiding something — but she’s finding it harder and harder to keep her own secret.

It’s up to Hillary to uncover the shocking truth in this coldest of cold cases — before old crimes turn to new murder.

Perfect for fans of Betty Rowlands, Agatha Christie, L.J. Ross, J.R. Ellis, M.C. Beaton, or Clare Chase.

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE BESTSELLING SERIES:

“So glad Hillary is back — absolutely loved the other books in the series and really enjoyed this one too.” Nerys

“Would give more than 5 stars if I could.” Barbara

“The plotting is perfect, as always, with plenty of twists and red herrings.” Amanda

“Once I started reading her newest cold case, I was once again hooked.” Renee

“I love Faith Martin and enjoy every book that I read from her, and this book definitely ranks high on my list.” Robin

THE DETECTIVE
DI Hillary Greene: An attractive, single woman in her fifties, Hillary Greene was a police officer of many years’ experience (earning the rank of DI) and came up through the ranks. Consequently, she knew how the system worked, and was always fiercely loyal to the force without being blinkered to its faults. Forced to retire early through no fault of her own, she has now returned to the force as a civilian consultant on cold cases.

DI HILLARY GREENE SERIES
Book 1: MURDER ON THE OXFORD CANAL Book 2: MURDER AT THE UNIVERSITY
Book 3: MURDER OF THE BRIDE
Book 4: MURDER IN THE VILLAGE
Book 5: MURDER IN THE FAMILY
Book 6: MURDER AT HOME
Book 7: MURDER IN THE MEADOW
Book 8: MURDER IN THE MANSION
Book 9: MURDER IN THE GARDEN
Book 10: MURDER BY FIRE
Book 11: MURDER AT WORK
Book 12: MURDER NEVER RETIRES
Book 13: MURDER OF A LOVER
Book 14: MURDER NEVER MISSES
Book 15: MURDER AT MIDNIGHT
Book 16: MURDER IN MIND
Book 17: HILLARY’S FINAL CASE
Book 18: HILLARY’S BACK!
Book 19: MURDER NOW AND THEN
Book 20: MURDER IN THE PARISH

Author Bio Faith Martin

OVER 2 MILLION BOOKS SOLD AND 400 MILLION PAGES READ ON KINDLE UNLIMITED!
Faith Martin was born in Oxford, and has spent all her life within twenty miles of the university city, even working at Somerville College for six years before turning to writing full-time.
Faith has been writing for nearly 30 years under four different pen names and has had nearly 50 books published so far. She began writing romantic thrillers as Maxine Barry, which Joffe Books are in the process of re-releasing as brand new eBooks. Then she turned to crime, and as Joyce Cato wrote classic-style whodunits, since she’s always admired the golden-age crime novelists. But it was when she created her fictional DI Hillary Greene, and began writing under the name of Faith Martin, that she finally began to become more widely known. Her latest literary characters WPC Trudy Loveday, and city coroner, Dr Clement Ryder, take readers back to the 1960’s and the city of Oxford. Having lived within a few miles of the city of dreaming spires for all her life, both the city and the countryside/wildlife often feature in her novels. Although she has never lived on a narrow boat (unlike DI Hillary Greene!) the Oxford canal, the river Cherwell, and the flora and fauna of a farming landscape have always played a big part in her life – and often sneak their way onto the pages of her books.
Her hobbies include walking her now ageing dog, wildlife-watching, reading and (reluctantly) gardening.

My Review as someone constantly waiting for medical test results and the anxiety around them, this was a little to relatable and could trigger some people, so that’s my only criticism. A little heads up for folks. I’ve read at least one of these books from this series before, And I remember how much I enjoyed Hillary, and reading the story from their prospective. We have cold cases being revisited and old familiar colleagues. While red herrings are left right and center, how much goes on in this village is amazing. Is Hillary clouded in judgement, are they thinking in full clarity? Or is this luming private life crisis blurring the lines,and affecting how they work. A thoroughly good read, I could see these so easily adapted and made into afternoon series, it’s a perfect escapism, and now the sun is shining, one to take on the beach!!

This recovery I’ve been given some books to read, to keep me entertained. My sister’s late husband’s collection that were his mother’s I believe. We have occult, supernatural and myths. Perfect for me I reckon.

A good friend of mine sent me a care package too, full to the brim of Witchy and Moon magic books, several Tarot Decks and magazines on tarot.

This should keep me very very busy, and it’s enjoyable to expand my knowledge.

#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions are my own, I choose books and authors on the genre of murder mysteries and crime, this is my favourite genre to read.

MURDER AGAINST THE ODDS by Janice Frost

”Hard-hitting and realistic-feeling story. Frightening. Really enjoyed it.” Aileen

A TOTALLY GRIPPING CRIME MYSTERY FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR JANICE FROST.

The early hours of a freezing January night. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing new-born baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box.

That same night Detective Steph Warwick attends the murder of coach driver Bernie Gore, whose battered body is found in a narrow alleyway.

The last thing Jane wants is to lock horns with Steph Warwick once again. Then vital evidence emerges linking Bernie Gore’s murder to the abandoned baby. And Jane has no choice but to alert the sharp-tongued detective inspector.

If they are to solve Bernie’s murder and track down Baby Elsa’s mother, the two women must bury the hatchet and learn to work together.

Matters become even more complicated when a prime suspect emerges — with close links to Jane’s family.

This unputdownable mystery full of twists is the perfect read for fans of: Angela Marsons, Joy Ellis, Ruth Rendell, Helen H. Durrant, Rachel McLean and Michael Hambling.

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT JANICE FROST:

“This book has opened my eyes . . . I feel like I have lived in a bubble living in the mountains in a small town.” Chelsea A.

“Well-written, twists and turns aplenty and with a credible cast of characters but with a vicious, intense and emotional storyline.” Ruth G.

“A decent follow-up with the return and growth of several characters.” Donna B.

MEET THE DETECTIVES
SPC Jane Bell is forty-five, a widow of three years following the premature death of her husband, Sam. She has two grown-up children, Patrick and Norah, who are pursuing careers in London. After Sam’s death, Jane makes some changes to her life. She downsizes from their large family home in the country to a cottage in Lincoln.

DI Stephanie Warwick is thirty-five. She left school at eighteen and worked in a bank before joining the police force. She is haunted by her ex-boyfriend, Cal. He attempted to kill her twelve years ago, and murdered her best friend.

ALSO BY JANICE FROST
WARWICK & BELL SERIES
Book 1: MURDER AMONG FRIENDS
Book 2: MURDER ACROSS THE LINES
Book 3: MURDER AGAINST THE ODDS

THE COMPLETE MERRY & NEAL MYSTERIES
Book 1: DEAD SECRET
Book 2: DARK SECRET
Book 3: HER HUSBAND’S SECRET
Book 4: THEIR FATAL SECRETS
Book 5: DIRTY SECRETS
Book 6: MURDEROUS SECRETS

STANDALONE NOVELS
THE WOMAN ON THE CLIFF

JANICE FROST – Author Bio
Janice was born and grew up in West Lothian, Scotland. After completing an English degree at St Andrew’s University, she moved to London where she lived for ten years doing an assortment of jobs. Her passions are reading, writing and walking in Scotland and the Lake District. She lives in Lincolnshire with her husband and two sons.
FOLLOW JANICE ON
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My Review a new author for me, and I was surprised from the 2 perspectives of the story, while it clearly gives the reader a wider scope of what is going on, or different opinions of the storyline, I did find it difficult to grasp at first. Some of the character development I’ve missed as this is my first book to read in the series, and I could of learnt more starting from the beginning. However I was pleasantly surprised by the nuance of coercive control and addiction and abuse being on the story, it was handled well and described well. Though maybe some would see it as preachy, and condescending. Overall I enjoyed the book and how it was written, I would recommend it, but it does need time devoting to it, to absorb yourself in.

#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions are my own, I read books I enjoy in a genre that’s my favourite. Life is too short for bad books.

The Viaduct (A DS Jason Smith Thriller Book 21)

From bestselling author: Stewart Giles comes another brilliant addition to the Detective Jason Smith series
Two hundred feet below an old bridge, a teenage girl lies battered and bruised. Barely alive, she knows she’s not going to make it.

Two days later, another teenager is found in almost exactly the same spot.
Suicide. That’s what the papers are saying.

But when a third victim of the now legendary viaduct turns up, Detective Sergeant Jason Smith doesn’t buy it. Something else is happening here – something much darker.

As Smith and the team start asking questions, the investigation takes a turn for the worse when things get much closer to home.

Smith’s adopted daughter goes missing, and when he finds out she was last seen close to this sinister viaduct, he fears the worst.

Smith knows he’s running out of time.

Will he get to the truth before the viaduct lures its next victim to their death?

What readers are saying about Stewart Giles’ books:
This author has once again captured another best selling read for his readers, that you won’t be able to put down. – Booklover Bev
I love Stewart’s books- there is always a comfort about them despite the subject matter, of a warmth of characters and a plot that draws the reader in very quickly. – Misfits farm
I haven’t read such a brilliant detective thriller for quite while. This is one of the best ever. – LooseBoots
My first introduction to this author’s work and wasn’t my last by any means. – Patricia Burton
My first read from this author ..5 stars ..Stunning storytelling.. – Livia
Totally gripping, it has the perfect balance of action, mystery and humour and this is written by a very talented and passionate author, I loved every page – thank you. – Sarah

BOOKS BY STEWART GILES

DS JASON SMITH SERIES
Book 0.5 – Phobia
Book 1 – Smith
Book 2 – Boomerang
Book 3 – Ladybird
Book 4 – Occam’s Razor
Book 5 – Harlequin
Book 6 – Selene
Book 7 – Horsemen
Book 8 – Unworthy
Book 9 – Venom
Book 10 – Severed
Book 11 – Demons
Book 12 – Deadeye
Book 13 – Motive
Book 14 – Australia
Book 16 – Wishbone
Book 17 – Ghosts
Book 18 – The Scarecrow
Book 19 – The Bluesman
Book 20 – The Librarian
Book 21 – The Viaduct

DI O’REILLY MYSTERIES
Book 1 – Blood on the Island
Book 2 – Lies on the Island
Book 3 – Fear on the Island
Book 4 – Malice on the Island
Book 5 – Revenge on the Island
Book 6 – Christmas on the Island
Book 7 – Silence on the Island
Book 8 – Secrets on the Island
Book 9 – Chaos on the Island


DC HARRIET TAYLOR SERIES
Book 1-The Beekeeper
Book 2-The Perfect Murder
Book 3-The Backpacker
Trotterdown a box set of DC Harriet Taylor books 1-3

DS JASON SMITH &DC HARRIET TAYLOR SERIES
Book 1 – The Enigma
Book 2 – Dropzone
Book 3 – The Raven Girl
Trilogy: The DS Smith & Harriet Taylor box set

THE MIRANDA TRILOGY (psychological thrillers)
Miranda
Mistress
Medusa

STANDALONE NOVELS
Horror – The Divide
Thriller – The Ghostwriter
Thriller – The Guests

Stewart Giles – Author Bio

After reading English at 3 Universities and graduating from none of them, I set off travelling around the world with my wife, Ann, finally settling in South Africa, where we still live.
In 2014 Ann dropped a rather large speaker on my head and I came up with the idea for a detective series. DS Jason Smith was born. Smith, the first in the series was finished a few months later.
3 years and 8 DS Smith books later, Joffe Books wondered if I would be interested in working with them. As a self-published author, I agreed. However, we decided on a new series – the DC Harriet Taylor: Cornwall series.
The Beekeeper was published and soon hit the number one spot in Australia. The second in the series, The Perfect Murder did just as well.
I continued to self-publish the Smith series and Unworthy hit the shelves in 2018 with amazing results. I therefore made the decision to self-publish The Backpacker which is book 3 in the Detective Harriet Taylor series which was published in July 2018.
After The Backpacker I had an idea for a totally new start to a series – a collaboration between the Smith and Harriet thrillers and The Enigma was born. It brought together the broody, enigmatic Jason Smith and the more level-headed Harriet Taylor.
The Miranda trilogy is something totally different. A psychological thriller trilogy. It is a real departure from anything else I’ve written before.
The Detective Jason Smith series continues to grow. I also have another series featuring an Irish detective who relocated to Guernsey, the Detective Liam O’Reilly series. There are also 3 stand alone novels.

Website: http://www.stewartgiles.com
Twitter: @stewartgiles
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stewart.giles.33

My Review it’s no secret from long term readers of this blog that I adore Stewart Giles Books, the pace, the plot, the characters just vibe so well, so gritty, but humourous that it feels like a favourite pair of slippers as soon as I turn a page! By now I feel I know Jason Smith inside out, and forget he’s not a real life person… Bonkers I know. But that’s how well developed the character is, so well rounded, each book you learn a bit more, and the character becomes more and more flesh. The feeling as a parent you can’t find your child and fearing the worst, portrayed brilliantly through the pages, the anguish and dread of not knowing, yet also needing to do a job felt awful through each word. As a witch myself I love books incorporating magic, and seeing it they get things right or not lol 🤣 The new characters are shaping up nicely and fitting well into the team, love how they are forever evolving characters and making them more human and real to the reader. Heart pounding gripping book as ever!!

#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions are my own, I read because I love books, I choose them on the genre and author I know I enjoy.

THE SCARECROW KILLER (Detective Cassie Rowan #2) by Margaret Murphy

“Pace, taut plotting and great characterisation.” Sunday Times bestseller Ann Cleeves

AN ABSOLUTELY GRIPPING CRIME THRILLER FULL OF TWISTS.

A body swinging in the trees. A mysterious hit and run. Rumours of a voodoo curse. Detective Cassie Rowan tackles the most disturbing case of her career.

Just before dawn on a clear October morning. Detective Cassie Rowan is driving home, exhausted, after a gruelling night on duty. Her headlights catch a sudden flash of movement by the side of the road, a streak of bright, metallic blue. Cassie pulls over to take a look. For a moment, she thinks she imagined it: a body swaying among the trees — hanging from a branch.

Cassie scrambles up the slope, already dialling emergency services. And stops short. The macabre sight that greets her is not what she expected at all . . .

A week later, there’s a fatal accident on the same stretch of road. Seventeen-year-old Damian Novak mown down in a hit-and-run. No witnesses.

Something about Damian’s death doesn’t add up. Cassie is convinced that the hit-and-run and her mysterious swinging body are connected.

Cassie discovers that Damian isn’t the first local teenager to have died in strange circumstances . . . and he won’t be the last.

In each case, a sinister effigy of the victim appears a week before their death.

With wild stories of a voodoo curse running rife, Cassie is in a race against time to track down a brutal killer before they kill again.

ONE OF THE ABSOLUTE MUST-READ PSYCHOLOGICAL CRIME THRILLERS OF 2023.

If you like Patricia Gibney, Helen H. Durrant, Robert Dugoni, Angela Marsons and Rachel Abbott, you’ll love The Scarecrow Killer.

THE DETECTIVE
Detective Constable Cassie Rowan is a young policewoman who has been the main carer for her younger brother, Neil, since their parents died. She has to balance this role with her demanding job. She is determined and outspoken, which sometimes brings her into conflict with her colleagues. Forensic scientist Dr Ian Chan is on her side, but her boss Detective Chief Inspector Pat Warman thinks she is uncooperative and needs to work as part of a team.

THE SETTING
The great northern English city of Liverpool is a place of contrasts. The city boasts a stunning Insta-worthy waterfront and architecture of World Heritage pedigree. A few miles inland, the Mersey river is dotted with picturesque villages of sandstone and thatch, nestling on the edges of misty salt marshes abrim with birdsong. Steeped in antiquity, these secret havens can seem aloof from modern cares. But scratch the city’s glossy façade — take a few steps beyond these enclaves of affluence and privilege — and you might stumble upon an edgier landscape of crumbling tower blocks looming over grimy courtyards, where danger lurks in every shadow. Here, decaying social housing huddles around grey rows of tightly shuttered shops — sad remnants of what were once thriving neighbourhood hubs. And where generations have been trapped in a cycle of deprivation and low aspirations, it falls to a courageous few to fight for a better, safer world for their communities.

Readers love the Detective Cassie Rowan series:

“Wonderful writing, gripping storyline, the suspense is intoxicating.” P.A. B.

“Lots of scary scenes . . . The ending is breathtakingly tense.” Daniel S.

“Plenty of unexpected twists . . . Clear the decks in preparation for a thrilling read.” Saddeck S.

“One of the best, if not the best, novels I’ve read.” Tripslipper

“A brilliant read. Couldn’t put it down.” Denise T.

ALSO BY MARGARET MURPHY
DETECTIVE CASSIE ROWAN
Book 1: BEFORE HE KILLS AGAIN
Book 2: THE SCARECROW KILLER

AUTHOR BIO – MARGARET MURPHY
Margaret Murphy writes internationally acclaimed psychological thrillers. She is a past Chair of the Crime Writers Association (CWA), founder of Murder Squad, and a former RLF Writing Fellow and Reading Round Lector. She’s been a country park ranger, biology teacher, dyslexia specialist and Visiting Professor in creative writing. A Short Story Dagger and CWA Red Herring award winner, she has also been shortlisted for the ‘First Blood’ critics award and CWA Dagger in the Library.
BOOKS BY MARGARET MURPHY
CLARA PASCAL SERIES:
• DARKNESS FALLS
• WEAVING SHADOWS
DETECTIVE JEFF RICKMAN SERIES:
• SEE HER BURN
• SEE HER DIE
• DON’T SCREAM
• DETECTIVE JEFF RICKMAN BOOKS 1-3 BOX SET
DETECTIVE CASSIE ROWAN SERIES:
• BEFORE HE KILLS AGAIN
STANDALONE NOVELS:
• DEAR MUM
• HER HUSBAND’S KILLER
• THE LOST BOY
• DYING EMBERS
• THE DARKEST HOURS
FOLLOW MARGARET ON
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MY REVIEW I believe this is a new author to me, and who wouldn’t want a book with this title? Instant desire to read. Now I will say it’s more gruesome than most books I’ve read, I don’t mind it, but perhaps others would prefer a lighter more naïve Agatha Christie style book. I felt a tad confused with last name and first name switching when addressing the same character, this I thought would of been better using the one name throughout. Some relationships throughout the book were charming to visit and read, but others not so much. Though the author has plenty of scope to build these characters into more with each book. The storyline was well paced for me, glad it was a bit slower as I needed something slower this time round due to my own life circumstances. I hope as time goes on I will enjoy learning more about Cassie, as I found her like a petulant teen at times and arrogant. But at least that is like real life, you do meet people like that lol.

#ADGIFTED all thoughts and opinions are my own, I am gifted the book to read and give a blog post. I choose genres I enjoy and authors I like.

THE WRONG WOMAN an absolutely gripping crime mystery with a massive twist (Detectives Lennox & Wilde Thrillers Book 3)

MEET DETECTIVES HARRY LENNOX AND JESS WILDE IN THIS BRILLIANT NEW CRIME SERIES SET IN THE PICTURESQUE PENNINE FOOTHILLS IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND.

A BRAND-NEW MYSTERY FROM #1 BESTSELLING AUTHOR HELEN H. DURRANT THAT WILL HAVE YOU ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT FROM PAGE ONE. FAST-PACED AND FULL OF SURPRISES.

Detectives Harry Lennox and Jess Wilde have never seen anything like it. The dead woman is dressed up like a Victorian doll. She’s wearing a long, white dress, a bloodstained blonde wig, and a mask with red, cupid-bow lips.

Beneath the mask, her face is beaten so badly it’s unrecognisable.

DNA identifies the victim as Lori Lansing, who was kidnapped three weeks ago. Her wealthy husband paid half a million pounds to secure her release — but he never saw his wife again.

Then another young woman is reported missing.

Could Harry and Jess be hunting a serial killer? Will Harry’s past finally catch up with him? And will Jess find happiness with her new man?

A MYSTERY FULL OF STUNNING TWISTS WHICH YOU WON’T WANT TO PUT DOWN.

Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Kimberley Chambers, Damien Boyd, Rachel Abbott, Patricia Gibney or Joy Ellis.

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT HELEN H. DURRANT:

‘I couldn’t put it down.’ Barbara

‘This new series by Helen H. Durrant certainly has got off to a thrilling start.’ Viv

‘If you want a book to get your teeth into, this is the one. A massive 5*.’ Greta

‘Another fast-paced murder mystery.’ Aileen

‘The writing was top notch and the characters were very real.’ Kat

THE DETECTIVES
DI HARRY LENNOX began his career in Glasgow, but due to a traumatic incident, transferred to West Yorkshire and then Ryebridge. He blames a Scottish villain for what happened and is afraid that he’ll catch up with him. Harry is single, thirtysomething and has a chaotic lifestyle.

DS JESS WILDE is in her early thirties. She is unattached and keen to progress in her career. She gets on well with Harry. He doesn’t have much time for protocol, and this suits her. She is critical of how he lives. She has recently bought her first property locally.

THE SETTING
Welcome to Ryebridge in the North of England. Nestled in the picturesque Pennine foothills, it appears to be an idyllic place to live. But this former cotton town has suffered a steady decline
into hard times. Today with the mills long gone and little to take their place, it’s become the perfect breeding ground for fledgling criminals. Gangs from Manchester soak up money-hungry youths and put them to work. The streets are dangerous, the people scared, all of which belies the beauty of the town’s surroundings of hills, lakes and moorland. The backbone of England has a heavy load to bear.

ALSO BY HELEN H. DURRANT
LENNOX & WILDE
Book 1: THE GUILTY MAN
Book 2: THE FACELESS MAN
Book 3: THE WRONG WOMAN

RACHEL KING
Book 1: NEXT VICTIM
Book 2: TWO VICTIMS
Book 3: WRONG VICTIM
Book 4: FORGOTTEN VICTIM
Book 5: LAST VICTIM

THE CALLADINE & BAYLISS MYSTERY SERIES
Book 1: DEAD WRONG
Book 2: DEAD SILENT
Book 3: DEAD LIST
Book 4: DEAD LOST
Book 5: DEAD & BURIED
Book 6: DEAD NASTY
Book 7: DEAD JEALOUS
Book 8: DEAD BAD
Book 9: DEAD GUILTY
Book 10: DEAD WICKED
Book 11: DEAD SORRY
Book 12: DEAD REAL

THE DCI GRECO BOOKS
Book 1: DARK MURDER
Book 2: DARK HOUSES
Book 3: DARK TRADE
Book 4: DARK ANGEL

DETECTIVE ALICE ROSSI SERIES
Book 1: THE ASH LAKE MURDERS

AUTHOR BIO – HELEN H. DURRANT
OVER 1 MILLION BOOKS SOLD!
Helen is one of the ‘baby boomer’ generation and began writing when she retired from her job at a local college. Born in Edinburgh to an English father and Scottish mother the family settled in a Pennine village between the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire. It is an environment which has shaped her stories. Writing is a second career and, despite having a bus pass, keeps her busy, and tuned in.
Helen’s children are all grown-up and she has five grandchildren.

MY REVIEW this grabbed me with Victorian Doll, now I love creepy things but a woman looking like a Victorian doll is too creepy for me, so I’m all in. Though I’ve dipped my toe in before with this author, I’m not fully familiar with all the characters, however that wasn’t an issue at all, as you are soon well knowledgeable about them, down to their pasts, their quirks and humour. Well rounded mystery with no lack lustre characters at all. I enjoyed the pace and guesswork, nothing too complex though certainly not easy to work out either. Now I’m winding my real life down for a hand surgery, books like these are making life and recovery more bearable. The two main characters are literal dream characters to read about, and easy to envision in real life.

This last month I’ve bought some more books, one is a follow on from a book I got for my birthday last July, so it felt like a natural progression to get it, and the other is a bit of fun.

First one for Fun, is Cursed Britain A History of Witchcraft and Black Magic in Modern Times

The definitive history of how witchcraft and black magic have survived, through the modern era and into the present day

Cursed Britain unveils the enduring power of witchcraft, curses and black magic in modern times. Few topics are so secretive or controversial. Yet, whether in the 1800s or the early 2000s, when disasters struck or personal misfortunes mounted, many Britons found themselves believing in things they had previously dismissed – dark supernatural forces.

Historian Thomas Waters here explores the lives of cursed or bewitched people, along with the witches and witch-busters who helped and harmed them. Waters takes us on a fascinating journey from Scottish islands to the folklore-rich West Country, from the immense territories of the British Empire to metropolitan London. We learn why magic caters to deep-seated human needs but see how it can also be abused, and discover how witchcraft survives by evolving and changing. Along the way, we examine an array of remarkable beliefs and rituals, from traditional folk magic to diverse spiritualities originating in Africa and Asia.

This is a tale of cynical quacks and sincere magical healers, depressed people and furious vigilantes, innocent victims and rogues who claimed to possess evil abilities. Their spellbinding stories raise important questions about the state’s role in regulating radical spiritualities, the fragility of secularism and the true nature of magic.

This one is from the writer of The Forager’s Calendar, a seasonal guide to Nature’s Wild Harvests. So it felt natural to get this A Spotter’s Guide to Countryside Mysteries

Discover the mysteries of the countryside in all their pleasure, intrigue and beauty… Ever wondered about the masses of twigs in bare-branched trees that look like abandoned nests? Seen fuzzy red balls on roses? A stranded pond on a hilltop? Or even considered the shaded ways we walk along? One of Britain’s best-known naturalists, John Wright here introduces us to the natural (and unnatural) mysteries of the countryside, giving us the tools to identify Witch’s Broom, Robin’s Pincushion, Dew ponds and Hollow Ways, and also their histories, how they come to be, and where to find them. From the enormous to the truly tiny he illuminates the oddities that pepper our countryside and the pleasure of spotting and understanding them. Beautifully illustrated, practical and entertaining, this is for anyone who has wondered what is that? or simply longs to get outside.

One of Britain’s best-known naturalists, John Wright here introduces us to the natural (and unnatural) mysteries of the countryside, giving us the tools to identify Witch’s Broom, Robin’s Pincushion, Dew ponds and Hollow Ways, and also their histories, how they come to be, and where to find them. From the enormous to the truly tiny he illuminates the oddities that pepper our countryside and the pleasure of spotting and understanding them.