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DCI Christine Caplan #2
In Her Blood
'Girl A' was convicted of murdering three people when she was a child. Now she's missing and a man is dead. The clock is ticking for Scottish detective DCI Christine Caplan to bring her to justice - but the truth may be darker than even she fears . . .
When a body is discovered in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called in to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care.
Known only as Girl A, her identity remains anonymous, protected under law. Her violent past includes an allegation of the murder of a younger sibling, so the timing of this new death seems too coincidental. Then a vigilante sets her home on fire and she flees, so the 'child killer' is now on the loose - and at risk herself.
As Caplan launches a search for the elusive teenager, looking for connections between her and the dead man, she turns to Girl A's past for answers. And when she gets them, she realizes the truth may be even more sinister.
When a body is discovered in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called in to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care.
Known only as Girl A, her identity remains anonymous, protected under law. Her violent past includes an allegation of the murder of a younger sibling, so the timing of this new death seems too coincidental. Then a vigilante sets her home on fire and she flees, so the 'child killer' is now on the loose - and at risk herself.
As Caplan launches a search for the elusive teenager, looking for connections between her and the dead man, she turns to Girl A's past for answers. And when she gets them, she realizes the truth may be even more sinister.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2023
33 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Caro Ramsay
35 books203 followersCaro Ramsay was born and educated in Glasgow. She has been writing stories since she was five years old, developing a keen interest in crime fiction and a passion for the genre that lead her to write Absolution, her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 13, 2023
EXCERPT: The incident room was quiet apart from Mackie, the early shift gone. Those present said hello then busied themselves. Caplan wondered if Jackson had phoned up, warning them. She looked at the wall, recapping for herself. Somebody had lured Dr Edward Maxwell, a clever, cautious man, onto the top of the Connel Bridge. There was a description and an unflattering drawing of the other figure on the bridge labelled 'Bev's Monkey'. Why did Maxwell go there? Obviously, something tohis advantage. There was a brief description of the Pest and a list of institutions scored out - not known as a member, didn't work there, not part of the governing body. Maybe she was from another part of his work or his life. Security footage had been requested to aid ID. Girl A may or may not be relevant, but Caplan owed it to Cordelia and the boys to focus more on this incident and find out who had stuck a knife into the soft flesh of their husband and father's chest and thrown him from the Connel Bridge.
ABOUT 'IN HER BLOOD': 'Girl A' was convicted of murdering three people when she was a child. Now she's missing and a man is dead. The clock is ticking for Scottish detective DCI Christine Caplan to bring her to justice - but the truth may be darker than even she fears . . .
When a body is discovered in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called in to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care.
Known only as Girl A, her identity remains anonymous, protected under law. Her violent past includes an allegation of the murder of a younger sibling, so the timing of this new death seems too coincidental. Then a vigilante sets her home on fire and she flees, so the 'child killer' is now on the loose - and at risk herself.
As Caplan launches a search for the elusive teenager, looking for connections between her and the dead man, she turns to Girl A's past for answers. And when she gets them, she realizes the truth may be even more sinister.
MY THOUGHTS: In Her Blood is one of those books that starts off slowly, slightly muddly, but transforms into a ripper of a read. Just before the end I had tears running down my face incensed at the travesty of justice, the ruination of a life, and on the final page I was spluttering with laughter.
In Her Blood is not an easy read. It is harsh, violent at times, emotionally labile. It is dark and gritty including child and animal abuse. But it is a tale that will rip out and shred your heart. It is gripping, enthralling and brilliantly plotted, blending DCI Caplan's chaotic home and work lives. It seems that she is under siege from all sides.
The case is complicated, interwoven with another historical and sensitive case. There are discrepancies, inconsistencies, and people who do not want the status quo upset, people who believe Occam's Razor to be the correct outcome. Christine Caplan is not one of them. Deep inside, she knows something is not right, and she will push her team to the limit to learn the truth.
While In Her Blood could possibly be read as a stand-alone, it would be far better to read the first in the series, The Devil Stone, first as all the relationships are set up and explained. Without this knowledge there may be some confusion.
I read this in twenty-four hours. I was, once again, captivated and entranced by Ramsay's writing. Bring on #3!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#InHerBlood #NetGalley
I: #caroramsay @severnhouseimprint
X: @CaroRamsayBooks @severnhouse
#contemporaryfiction #crime #detectivefiction #familydrama #murdermystery #policeprocedural #psychological thriller #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Caro Ramsay was born and brought up in Glasgow, and now lives in a village on the west coast of Scotland. She is an osteopath, acupuncturist and former marathon runner, who devotes much of her time to the complementary treatment of injured wildlife at a local rescue centre. (Amazon)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Severn House via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of In Her Blood by Caro Ramsay for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
ABOUT 'IN HER BLOOD': 'Girl A' was convicted of murdering three people when she was a child. Now she's missing and a man is dead. The clock is ticking for Scottish detective DCI Christine Caplan to bring her to justice - but the truth may be darker than even she fears . . .
When a body is discovered in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called in to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care.
Known only as Girl A, her identity remains anonymous, protected under law. Her violent past includes an allegation of the murder of a younger sibling, so the timing of this new death seems too coincidental. Then a vigilante sets her home on fire and she flees, so the 'child killer' is now on the loose - and at risk herself.
As Caplan launches a search for the elusive teenager, looking for connections between her and the dead man, she turns to Girl A's past for answers. And when she gets them, she realizes the truth may be even more sinister.
MY THOUGHTS: In Her Blood is one of those books that starts off slowly, slightly muddly, but transforms into a ripper of a read. Just before the end I had tears running down my face incensed at the travesty of justice, the ruination of a life, and on the final page I was spluttering with laughter.
In Her Blood is not an easy read. It is harsh, violent at times, emotionally labile. It is dark and gritty including child and animal abuse. But it is a tale that will rip out and shred your heart. It is gripping, enthralling and brilliantly plotted, blending DCI Caplan's chaotic home and work lives. It seems that she is under siege from all sides.
The case is complicated, interwoven with another historical and sensitive case. There are discrepancies, inconsistencies, and people who do not want the status quo upset, people who believe Occam's Razor to be the correct outcome. Christine Caplan is not one of them. Deep inside, she knows something is not right, and she will push her team to the limit to learn the truth.
While In Her Blood could possibly be read as a stand-alone, it would be far better to read the first in the series, The Devil Stone, first as all the relationships are set up and explained. Without this knowledge there may be some confusion.
I read this in twenty-four hours. I was, once again, captivated and entranced by Ramsay's writing. Bring on #3!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#InHerBlood #NetGalley
I: #caroramsay @severnhouseimprint
X: @CaroRamsayBooks @severnhouse
#contemporaryfiction #crime #detectivefiction #familydrama #murdermystery #policeprocedural #psychological thriller #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Caro Ramsay was born and brought up in Glasgow, and now lives in a village on the west coast of Scotland. She is an osteopath, acupuncturist and former marathon runner, who devotes much of her time to the complementary treatment of injured wildlife at a local rescue centre. (Amazon)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Severn House via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of In Her Blood by Caro Ramsay for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
August 24, 2023
DCI Christine Caplan Number Two.
Fabulous police procedural with an interwoven mental health theme.
However, while I loved the backstory and quirky characters, this book had so many mentions of animal abuse that to avoid reading those sections would have been difficult even if I’d known the page numbers.
Although it was past tense, this aspect increased from the first book and I’m afraid it will continue. For this reason, I’m in a quandary as to whether I’ll continue the series.
Too bad because the Scotland setting and fully fleshed out characters really drew me in and I wanted to see how they’d develop.
Fabulous police procedural with an interwoven mental health theme.
However, while I loved the backstory and quirky characters, this book had so many mentions of animal abuse that to avoid reading those sections would have been difficult even if I’d known the page numbers.
Although it was past tense, this aspect increased from the first book and I’m afraid it will continue. For this reason, I’m in a quandary as to whether I’ll continue the series.
Too bad because the Scotland setting and fully fleshed out characters really drew me in and I wanted to see how they’d develop.
September 24, 2023
In Her Blood is the second book in the DCI Christine Caplan series by British author, Caro Ramsay. With her children safe on Skone, DCI Christine Caplan is heading to Glasgow where her long-term unemployed, depressed husband has hopefully done something constructive about selling their house. They have bought Challie Cottage at Kilnlorn, which will need quite a bit of work, and the caravan isn’t very liveable, even in April, but it’s closer to where their children will be.
But her return is delayed when she’s called to an apparent suicide at Cronchie: someone has jumped off the Connel Bridge into the turbulent waters of Lora Falls, where the River Etive meets the Sound. But things don’t look quite right. His wife is adamant that forensic psychologist Dr Edward Maxwell would never take his own life. Nor, despite being meant to attend a conference in Leeds, would he have an affair. So why was he in Cronchie? And, when the post mortem unequivocally concludes murder, whom did he meet on the bridge?
In Glasgow, Caplan’s sometime friend, Assistant Chief Commissioner Sarah Linden tells her to be on the lookout for Girl A who, as a child, possibly murdered two of her sisters and a friend, and has been released from the mental health facility at eighteen, cured. She has a new name, but a dark web blog attributed to her has given away her secret location, resulting in a vigilante arson attack, burns and a self-discharge from hospital. She’s in the wind.
Linden points out that, even if she’s a psychopathic killer, Police Scotland owe her a duty of care. “Girl A had the right to confidentiality both over her medical past, and to her whereabouts” but “She needs to be found for her own safety.” While her treating doctors remind them “Girl A was a patient, not a convict” who “the right to live in peace as a free individual”, Linden is not convinced of her innocence: “She’s untouchable and the little bitch knows it.”
Apparently her team at Cronchie are very familiar with Girl A’s case, knowing much more than Caplan has been told. When it is revealed that Ted Maxwell had a special interest in youngsters who kill, and was probably writing a book on the subject, possibly a whistle-blower exposé, people start drawing conclusions. But are they adding two and two to make five?
Ramsay’s exploration of the balance of rights is interesting and thought-provoking: “Could those children, who were so damaged that they were compelled to damage others, ever be healed? It was the old argument of nature versus nurture, the rights of the individual versus the rights of society.”
Once again, Ramsay gives the reader an excellent police procedural, with a gripping plot into which she throws in some terrific red herrings and twists to keep all but the most astute reader guessing right up to the final reveal. She develops several of the Cronchie regulars into the characters with whom the reader will be happy to spend more time.
Unresolved is a Glasgow situation involving some missing evidence, Christine’s other good friend, PC Lizzie Fergusson, and a clandestine association with a member of one of Scotland’s biggest crime families, leaving plenty for a third instalment that will be eagerly anticipated.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Severn House.
But her return is delayed when she’s called to an apparent suicide at Cronchie: someone has jumped off the Connel Bridge into the turbulent waters of Lora Falls, where the River Etive meets the Sound. But things don’t look quite right. His wife is adamant that forensic psychologist Dr Edward Maxwell would never take his own life. Nor, despite being meant to attend a conference in Leeds, would he have an affair. So why was he in Cronchie? And, when the post mortem unequivocally concludes murder, whom did he meet on the bridge?
In Glasgow, Caplan’s sometime friend, Assistant Chief Commissioner Sarah Linden tells her to be on the lookout for Girl A who, as a child, possibly murdered two of her sisters and a friend, and has been released from the mental health facility at eighteen, cured. She has a new name, but a dark web blog attributed to her has given away her secret location, resulting in a vigilante arson attack, burns and a self-discharge from hospital. She’s in the wind.
Linden points out that, even if she’s a psychopathic killer, Police Scotland owe her a duty of care. “Girl A had the right to confidentiality both over her medical past, and to her whereabouts” but “She needs to be found for her own safety.” While her treating doctors remind them “Girl A was a patient, not a convict” who “the right to live in peace as a free individual”, Linden is not convinced of her innocence: “She’s untouchable and the little bitch knows it.”
Apparently her team at Cronchie are very familiar with Girl A’s case, knowing much more than Caplan has been told. When it is revealed that Ted Maxwell had a special interest in youngsters who kill, and was probably writing a book on the subject, possibly a whistle-blower exposé, people start drawing conclusions. But are they adding two and two to make five?
Ramsay’s exploration of the balance of rights is interesting and thought-provoking: “Could those children, who were so damaged that they were compelled to damage others, ever be healed? It was the old argument of nature versus nurture, the rights of the individual versus the rights of society.”
Once again, Ramsay gives the reader an excellent police procedural, with a gripping plot into which she throws in some terrific red herrings and twists to keep all but the most astute reader guessing right up to the final reveal. She develops several of the Cronchie regulars into the characters with whom the reader will be happy to spend more time.
Unresolved is a Glasgow situation involving some missing evidence, Christine’s other good friend, PC Lizzie Fergusson, and a clandestine association with a member of one of Scotland’s biggest crime families, leaving plenty for a third instalment that will be eagerly anticipated.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Severn House.
July 24, 2023
In this second book in the series, Caro Ramsay returns with another Christine Caplan police procedural/mystery once again set away from the city of Glasgow where she used to work, now in the small station at Cronchie, her new work home. She’s coming to know this team and that knowledge will be challenged by a new case
To be continued…
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book to read and review.
To be continued…
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book to read and review.
August 25, 2024
In Her Blood is a second book in DCI Caplan series and it's a corker. Brilliantly written, well paced with an interesting cast of characters, it's gripping and full of tension. I loved the complexity of the case, how it got solved, the conclusion was a bit of a surprise. It's great.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
June 29, 2023
I’ve read most of Caro’s books, she writes really well. This is book two in a series ( though it could be a standalone) so characters are beginning to develop. Craigo was a bit of a wimp in the first book but is now blossoming under DCI Caplan’s influence. The story centres around a young woman who witnessed tragedy as a young child and suffers from the trauma associated with it. A psychologist researches her past and ends up dead - did she kill him? Throw in an extended family full of secrets and the story begins. Caplan’s personal life is under stress too and she is still suffering the after effects of the previous book’s crimes. There are enough red herrings to keep the reader intrigued. The ending is therefore a surprise. I look forward to more in the series. Thank you to NetGalley for a prepublication ebook.
August 1, 2023
In Her Blood is the latest in the DCI Christine Caplan series. I read the first book in the series, but I think this sequel would work well as a standalone. The cases in the two books are unrelated and the author supplies the important information from Christine's backstory.
Christine is from Glascow but has been reassigned to Cronchie, a village in the Scottish Highlands. She and her team are called to the scene of a drowning. It first appears to be a suicide, but then looks like it's murder. Making the case even more complicated is it seems to be tied to the recent release of "Girl A", the "most hated woman in Britain". The young woman is now 18 years old and is thought to have killed a young girl at camp as well as her own younger sister. Girl A is in danger from those who are furious at her release but confidentiality makes it harder for Christine to find the young woman to protect her, as well as question her.
The book has a slow start and I was sometimes a little confused over all the players in the story. However, it soon picks up to be an intriguing and suspenseful procedural. I like Christine and the working relationship she is forming with her new colleagues. The ending is surprising, going in a direction I hadn't expected, and satisfying. I hope this series continues as I would like to see more of Christine and her team who are really starting to gel and learning to work well together.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Severn House, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
Christine is from Glascow but has been reassigned to Cronchie, a village in the Scottish Highlands. She and her team are called to the scene of a drowning. It first appears to be a suicide, but then looks like it's murder. Making the case even more complicated is it seems to be tied to the recent release of "Girl A", the "most hated woman in Britain". The young woman is now 18 years old and is thought to have killed a young girl at camp as well as her own younger sister. Girl A is in danger from those who are furious at her release but confidentiality makes it harder for Christine to find the young woman to protect her, as well as question her.
The book has a slow start and I was sometimes a little confused over all the players in the story. However, it soon picks up to be an intriguing and suspenseful procedural. I like Christine and the working relationship she is forming with her new colleagues. The ending is surprising, going in a direction I hadn't expected, and satisfying. I hope this series continues as I would like to see more of Christine and her team who are really starting to gel and learning to work well together.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Severn House, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
July 21, 2024
This is not a light read: it's harsh, sometimes hard to read (child/animal abuse), dark and gritty. But it's a hell of novel, a wild ride into the heart of darkness.
A gripping, well plotted and enthralling novel that kept me reading and turning pages.
A dark page turner I loved
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
A gripping, well plotted and enthralling novel that kept me reading and turning pages.
A dark page turner I loved
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
September 30, 2024
Most crime novels depict a detective with serious personal problems. DCI Christine Caplan has more than most, yet she can solve crimes like no other.
Caro Ramsay is an extremely skilful writer and I look forward to reading her novels every time with eager anticipation. She never disappoints.
Caro Ramsay is an extremely skilful writer and I look forward to reading her novels every time with eager anticipation. She never disappoints.
May 28, 2025
Okay so I haven’t even finished the book yet (25% left to go) and I’m giving it a 5/5⭐️! This book has me hooked!! Some of the things that are said in this book has me a sitting back in my seat thinking “what the f..” and that’s honestly my favourite part! This book has had me sitting here on the edge of my seat the whole time I’ve been reading it! Absolutely such a great book! Will definitely be recommending to my friends who’re into these types of attention grabbers!!
Update: finished the book and was absolutely in love with the ending! I can’t wait to read more books from this author
2nd read: loved it just as much as I did the first time!!
Update: finished the book and was absolutely in love with the ending! I can’t wait to read more books from this author
2nd read: loved it just as much as I did the first time!!
July 28, 2023
In this second DCI Christine Caplan police procedural, we return to the Scottish Highland village of Cronchie. The DCI is ready to return to her home and family in Glasgow, after having been stationed in Cronchie. (I recommend reading the first book, The Devil Stone, to get the full backstory).
Caplan's departure is postponed when a call comes in about a man having jumped or was pushed off the Connel Bridge over the Falls of Lora. Here is the twist, he was stabbed before the fall. His name was
Ted Maxwell, a psychologist working on a book about children who kill. This creates fear and panic in the village. A young woman, who had been accused of murdering three people when she was a child, Girl A, has just been released. Could she have killed Ted Maxwell?
As Caplan, meets the girl, Gillian, and her family, she also begins to investigate the previous crimes. Things do not seem to be so straightforward. Adding to the pressure to solve Maxwell's murder, her superiors want a quick resolution and give her a deadline.
This is a fast paced story. The author does an excellent job with the subject of mental health issues, how people react to it and how the media forms the public's perceptions. Caplan is good at her job. She is dealing with personal issues on the home front at the same time she is dealing with a complex case. The author gives us a few twists, and I was surprised by the ending. I am hoping we see more of Christine.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Severn House for an ARC. The review is my own.
Caplan's departure is postponed when a call comes in about a man having jumped or was pushed off the Connel Bridge over the Falls of Lora. Here is the twist, he was stabbed before the fall. His name was
Ted Maxwell, a psychologist working on a book about children who kill. This creates fear and panic in the village. A young woman, who had been accused of murdering three people when she was a child, Girl A, has just been released. Could she have killed Ted Maxwell?
As Caplan, meets the girl, Gillian, and her family, she also begins to investigate the previous crimes. Things do not seem to be so straightforward. Adding to the pressure to solve Maxwell's murder, her superiors want a quick resolution and give her a deadline.
This is a fast paced story. The author does an excellent job with the subject of mental health issues, how people react to it and how the media forms the public's perceptions. Caplan is good at her job. She is dealing with personal issues on the home front at the same time she is dealing with a complex case. The author gives us a few twists, and I was surprised by the ending. I am hoping we see more of Christine.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Severn House for an ARC. The review is my own.
May 28, 2023
I was looking forward to the second in the Christine Caplan series and this doesn't disappoint.
Well plotted, fast-paced with characters you care about and a really good storyline.
The twists were excellent as Caplan struggles to work out her emotions during this investigation. It's a tricky one for sure and somehow Ramsay managed to keep us on tenterhooks right till the end.
Very powerful and emotional subject matter dealt with sensitively.
Great read
Well plotted, fast-paced with characters you care about and a really good storyline.
The twists were excellent as Caplan struggles to work out her emotions during this investigation. It's a tricky one for sure and somehow Ramsay managed to keep us on tenterhooks right till the end.
Very powerful and emotional subject matter dealt with sensitively.
Great read
February 11, 2025
4.5 stars
This was twisty and fun! And by fun I mean: Intelligent. My kind of book, that's for sure.
I suspect Christine Caplan is my spirit animal. I can relate to her way of handling drama on a level that's both endearing and low-key hilarious to me. 😆
We wouldn't agree on things like fashion or style, but on a fundamental level - she's my kind of people. 😁
Craigo really grew on me in this book too. I enjoy the dynamic between this duo - a lot!
Add to that a formidable narrator - Kristin Atherton - and this book was a non-stop kind of listen to me. I didn't want to put it down or for it to end.
Eventually it did of course - and to my utter horror, there's no audio of the 3rd book yet. 😨
Fingers crossed it will show relatively soon. I will absolutely wait for it with great excitement.
This was twisty and fun! And by fun I mean: Intelligent. My kind of book, that's for sure.
I suspect Christine Caplan is my spirit animal. I can relate to her way of handling drama on a level that's both endearing and low-key hilarious to me. 😆
We wouldn't agree on things like fashion or style, but on a fundamental level - she's my kind of people. 😁
Craigo really grew on me in this book too. I enjoy the dynamic between this duo - a lot!
Add to that a formidable narrator - Kristin Atherton - and this book was a non-stop kind of listen to me. I didn't want to put it down or for it to end.
Eventually it did of course - and to my utter horror, there's no audio of the 3rd book yet. 😨
Fingers crossed it will show relatively soon. I will absolutely wait for it with great excitement.
September 27, 2024
A man plummets off a bridge, open and shut case of suicide, until it is found that he was stabbed beforehand. The man, a psychiatrist, has links to the case of Girl A, a juvenile killer recently released from a facility and one whose flat was set alight. Now Caplan's team is in a race to find 'Girl A' before she kills again. However, as they continue to search Caplan finds herself doubting that her suspect is actually what she has been portrayed to be.
I enjoyed the first book in this series and this one does not disappoint. Although I'd worked out the plot by about halfway I still enjoyed the way that Ramsay got to the denouement and the book has lots to say about the treatment of juvenile offenders and social media.
I enjoyed the first book in this series and this one does not disappoint. Although I'd worked out the plot by about halfway I still enjoyed the way that Ramsay got to the denouement and the book has lots to say about the treatment of juvenile offenders and social media.
July 26, 2023
This is the second book in the DCI Caplin series, written by Caro Ramsay. Having said that, this book can be read easily as a stand alone. The author provides enough background to understand where all the characters currently find themselves, mentally and physically.
In Her Blood is an engrossing read. DCI Caplin is investigating a really tricky case. We have a seemingly mindless murder of a decent, honest man who only wanted to do well. Who wanted to help young people facing challenges in their lives. This enquiry is set against the case of Girl A. A nationwide renowned case. Is Girl A innocent? A young patient with deep rooted mental health issues, who needs protection? Or is she a cold blooded killer, who others need protection from?
The team have really grown on me in this book. In the last book, The Devil Stone, I wasn’t sure who to trust. Now I know who the good guys are, I am really enjoying their quirks, infuriating traits, strengths and weaknesses, seeing their characters grow in the pages. The varied personalities provide interesting and entertaining interactions, and also bring a realism to the story. I know I certainly haven’t always got on with people I had to work with, and be in the company of frequently. Some of the dialogue between Christine and Craigo really made me smile, I’m sure her reactions have been reflected in my own face many times.
This is a complex, intricate, fast moving plot. The author doesn’t waste words describing incidental details, such as the colour of sky, you just get what the story needs, succinctly written.
This case has echoes in cases that readers will recognise from reality. I’m sure readers will have their own opinions on which side they would fall on this case. Cases like these will always be divisive.
The author has included one of my favourite words, at the start of Chapter 17, in the Killagal Blog. I won’t mention it here, as I’m sure the algorithm police will shoot me down and disallow this review from publication. This is the first time I have seen this word in a book, and I applaud the author for it’s use. It’s a 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me, and I really look forward to the next DCI Caplin book.
In Her Blood is an engrossing read. DCI Caplin is investigating a really tricky case. We have a seemingly mindless murder of a decent, honest man who only wanted to do well. Who wanted to help young people facing challenges in their lives. This enquiry is set against the case of Girl A. A nationwide renowned case. Is Girl A innocent? A young patient with deep rooted mental health issues, who needs protection? Or is she a cold blooded killer, who others need protection from?
The team have really grown on me in this book. In the last book, The Devil Stone, I wasn’t sure who to trust. Now I know who the good guys are, I am really enjoying their quirks, infuriating traits, strengths and weaknesses, seeing their characters grow in the pages. The varied personalities provide interesting and entertaining interactions, and also bring a realism to the story. I know I certainly haven’t always got on with people I had to work with, and be in the company of frequently. Some of the dialogue between Christine and Craigo really made me smile, I’m sure her reactions have been reflected in my own face many times.
This is a complex, intricate, fast moving plot. The author doesn’t waste words describing incidental details, such as the colour of sky, you just get what the story needs, succinctly written.
This case has echoes in cases that readers will recognise from reality. I’m sure readers will have their own opinions on which side they would fall on this case. Cases like these will always be divisive.
The author has included one of my favourite words, at the start of Chapter 17, in the Killagal Blog. I won’t mention it here, as I’m sure the algorithm police will shoot me down and disallow this review from publication. This is the first time I have seen this word in a book, and I applaud the author for it’s use. It’s a 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me, and I really look forward to the next DCI Caplin book.
September 20, 2024
In Her Blood is an absorbing read, focusing on a police investigation while also exploring deep-seated prejudices about mental health, child killers and the role the media plays in such cases.
When the body of a man is pulled out of the water near Connel Bridge it seems a straightforward case of suicide. But then we’re told about a notorious child killer, known only as Girl A, who has only recently been released and is known to have ties to the area. When the police learn Girl A was attacked, fled from hospital and has gone missing they start to think she may have been involved in this case.
I don’t want to give away any details. But this had me gripped, and I was surprised by the ending. A great read.
When the body of a man is pulled out of the water near Connel Bridge it seems a straightforward case of suicide. But then we’re told about a notorious child killer, known only as Girl A, who has only recently been released and is known to have ties to the area. When the police learn Girl A was attacked, fled from hospital and has gone missing they start to think she may have been involved in this case.
I don’t want to give away any details. But this had me gripped, and I was surprised by the ending. A great read.
February 22, 2024
Found this book really hard to get into, so have up
July 25, 2024
3.5 Stars
July 10, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for an advance copy of In Her Blood, the second novel to feature DCI Christine Caplan of Police Scotland, set in the Highlands.
A body is found in the water under the Connel Bridge, presumed to be a suicide although Christine isn’t so sure. Girl A was institutionalised as a young teenager under suspicion of three murders. Now she is out and living under a new identity, until she disappears. Christine has two investigations to handle, investigating the suicide that is actually murder and finding Girl A to take her into protective custody.
I thoroughly enjoyed In Her Blood, which is another absorbing read, full of twists and turns, from one of my favourite authors. It is told from Christine’s point of view so that offers an immersive read and an uninterrupted narrative.
The plot is twisty. Plenty of people, including senior police officers, are quick to assume that Girl A is responsible for the murder of the man on the bridge, but Christine and her team are thorough as they want a case that will stand up in court. They struggle to find a link between Girl A and Mr Bridges as they call him so they decide to delve into the past accusations against Girl A and find small anomalies, just as they find small anomalies in the events on the bridge. Nothing is clear cut and there’s a lot of supposition until the final twists, which are quite jaw dropping in their revelations.
This is a very interesting read, not just for the plot, but for what it has to say about the mental health profession, the supposition of guilt and the pernicious nature of social media. After all, Girl A has never been convicted of a crime and yet she’s labelled as Britain’s most hated killer. It really made me think about truth and perception.
Christine Caplan is a strong protagonist. She’s a good boss with a clear eyed way of seeing things and in general a rule follower which I find a good thing in a police procedural. Her private life is much messier. Her husband is a recluse with anxiety issues, her children were injured in a hit and run and are recovering in an island commune while she lives in a caravan in the garden of a house she wants to renovate. If that weren’t enough her two friends need careful negotiation as they have issues. Work must be a safe haven.
In Her Blood is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
A body is found in the water under the Connel Bridge, presumed to be a suicide although Christine isn’t so sure. Girl A was institutionalised as a young teenager under suspicion of three murders. Now she is out and living under a new identity, until she disappears. Christine has two investigations to handle, investigating the suicide that is actually murder and finding Girl A to take her into protective custody.
I thoroughly enjoyed In Her Blood, which is another absorbing read, full of twists and turns, from one of my favourite authors. It is told from Christine’s point of view so that offers an immersive read and an uninterrupted narrative.
The plot is twisty. Plenty of people, including senior police officers, are quick to assume that Girl A is responsible for the murder of the man on the bridge, but Christine and her team are thorough as they want a case that will stand up in court. They struggle to find a link between Girl A and Mr Bridges as they call him so they decide to delve into the past accusations against Girl A and find small anomalies, just as they find small anomalies in the events on the bridge. Nothing is clear cut and there’s a lot of supposition until the final twists, which are quite jaw dropping in their revelations.
This is a very interesting read, not just for the plot, but for what it has to say about the mental health profession, the supposition of guilt and the pernicious nature of social media. After all, Girl A has never been convicted of a crime and yet she’s labelled as Britain’s most hated killer. It really made me think about truth and perception.
Christine Caplan is a strong protagonist. She’s a good boss with a clear eyed way of seeing things and in general a rule follower which I find a good thing in a police procedural. Her private life is much messier. Her husband is a recluse with anxiety issues, her children were injured in a hit and run and are recovering in an island commune while she lives in a caravan in the garden of a house she wants to renovate. If that weren’t enough her two friends need careful negotiation as they have issues. Work must be a safe haven.
In Her Blood is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
June 7, 2023
This is the second book in the DCI Christine Caplan series by author Caro Ramsay but my first read of any novels by this author. I enjoy a good police procedural novel and this is right up my street. DCI Christine Caplan is a very determined and relentless Scottish detective who is thrust into a very chilling case. A young woman, known only as Girl A, has gone missing, and a man is found dead. What initially appears to be a straightforward suicide quickly unravels into something far more sinister as Caplan delves deeper into the investigation.
This was an excellent introduction for me into both the author and this series which works perfectly well as a standalone novel. The plot is well paced and I felt that I learnt quite a lot about DCI Caplan as the novel progressed. DCI Christine Caplan is a strong and resilient protagonist, driven by a relentless pursuit of justice. Her determination to uncover the truth, even when faced with daunting challenges, makes her a captivating character to follow throughout the story.
Girl A is a mysterious character, she is protected by the law and has a violent past that she will never get away from. Yet another solid Scottish crime author to add to my list, Ramsay’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, bringing the setting of Scotland to life with vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the story.
“In Her Blood” is an emotionally charged novel that explores themes of justice, trauma, and the consequences of one’s actions. Well written, nicely paced and interesting characters make this a very good read and I expect to read more from this author in the near future.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Severn House for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This was an excellent introduction for me into both the author and this series which works perfectly well as a standalone novel. The plot is well paced and I felt that I learnt quite a lot about DCI Caplan as the novel progressed. DCI Christine Caplan is a strong and resilient protagonist, driven by a relentless pursuit of justice. Her determination to uncover the truth, even when faced with daunting challenges, makes her a captivating character to follow throughout the story.
Girl A is a mysterious character, she is protected by the law and has a violent past that she will never get away from. Yet another solid Scottish crime author to add to my list, Ramsay’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, bringing the setting of Scotland to life with vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the story.
“In Her Blood” is an emotionally charged novel that explores themes of justice, trauma, and the consequences of one’s actions. Well written, nicely paced and interesting characters make this a very good read and I expect to read more from this author in the near future.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Severn House for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2023
For full enjoyment you could do yourself a favour and read the series opener - The Devil Stone - first. That said, the main story is self contained and can be read as a standalone but Devil Stone is a cracking book in itself...
So.. Christine is really in for a rough ride in this, her second outing. There's a body, found in the water under a bridge, firstly assumed suicide. But on further investigation Christine isn't having any of that and her thoughts soon turn to that of Girl A, recently released from the care which she has been in since the allegation of her having killed her younger sibling. She herself is on the run after someone found out her new identity and torched her home. But is she victim or perpetrator? Christine now has her hands very full both with the suicide-cum-murder and the disappearance of Girl A but, if you've read the series opener, you'll know that she will stop at nothing to cut through the noise, make her own mind up about things, and find the truth, whatever that shall be...
This book is just as good as the series opener was. Christine, as a character, is coming on nicely both within and outwith the crime(s) being investigated. And the crimes are deliciously twisted as you'd expect. It's well plotted and that plot ably executed delivering shock after surprise all the way through. With no superfluous waffle or padding to distract, it gets on with itself very well too. Ramping up until delivering a perfectly satisfying ending.
All in all, a worthy follow up - can't wait for book three! My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So.. Christine is really in for a rough ride in this, her second outing. There's a body, found in the water under a bridge, firstly assumed suicide. But on further investigation Christine isn't having any of that and her thoughts soon turn to that of Girl A, recently released from the care which she has been in since the allegation of her having killed her younger sibling. She herself is on the run after someone found out her new identity and torched her home. But is she victim or perpetrator? Christine now has her hands very full both with the suicide-cum-murder and the disappearance of Girl A but, if you've read the series opener, you'll know that she will stop at nothing to cut through the noise, make her own mind up about things, and find the truth, whatever that shall be...
This book is just as good as the series opener was. Christine, as a character, is coming on nicely both within and outwith the crime(s) being investigated. And the crimes are deliciously twisted as you'd expect. It's well plotted and that plot ably executed delivering shock after surprise all the way through. With no superfluous waffle or padding to distract, it gets on with itself very well too. Ramping up until delivering a perfectly satisfying ending.
All in all, a worthy follow up - can't wait for book three! My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
July 22, 2024
DCI Christine Caplan #2
"Girl A" was convicted of killing three people when she was a child. Now she's missing, and a man is dead. The clock is ticking for Scottish detective DCI Christine Caplan to bring her to justice - but the truth may be even darker than even she fears....
When a body is found in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care. Known only as Girl A, her identity remains anonymous, protected under law. Her violent past includes an allegation of the murder of a young sibling, so the timing of this new death seems too coincidental. Then a vigilante sets her home on fire, and she flees, so the "child Killer" is now on the loose - and at risk to herself.
The story starts slowly and then quickly builds its pace, suspense, and tension into a gripping read. The case is complex, as we also learn of the case of "Girl A." There is a thread of mental health issues woven into this story. There is an extended family who all have secrets. DCI Christine Caplan has her work cut out as she is the only one who believes the death that occurred on the bridge wasn't suicide, plus she has problems of her own. There are plenty of twists, but watch out for the red herrings along the way. This book can be read as a standalone.
Published 1st August 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #CannongateBooks and the author #CaroRamsay for my Arc of #InHerBlood in exchange for an honest review.
"Girl A" was convicted of killing three people when she was a child. Now she's missing, and a man is dead. The clock is ticking for Scottish detective DCI Christine Caplan to bring her to justice - but the truth may be even darker than even she fears....
When a body is found in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care. Known only as Girl A, her identity remains anonymous, protected under law. Her violent past includes an allegation of the murder of a young sibling, so the timing of this new death seems too coincidental. Then a vigilante sets her home on fire, and she flees, so the "child Killer" is now on the loose - and at risk to herself.
The story starts slowly and then quickly builds its pace, suspense, and tension into a gripping read. The case is complex, as we also learn of the case of "Girl A." There is a thread of mental health issues woven into this story. There is an extended family who all have secrets. DCI Christine Caplan has her work cut out as she is the only one who believes the death that occurred on the bridge wasn't suicide, plus she has problems of her own. There are plenty of twists, but watch out for the red herrings along the way. This book can be read as a standalone.
Published 1st August 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #CannongateBooks and the author #CaroRamsay for my Arc of #InHerBlood in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2023
This was a good story, it is the second in the series, I had not read the first and had no trouble with getting into this one, so it could be read as a stand a lone. DCI Caplan, a Scottish police detective, is called out to a bridge in the middle of the night. A man, later identified as Ted Maxwell, has been found in the river, presumed a suicide, that is until the post mortem shows he was stabbed before he went into the water. Ted is a psychologist who had been writing a book on children who kill, and one of those he wanted to talk to was known as Girl A. She was known as Britain's most hated woman for a series of deaths she was accused of, but due to her youth, had been institutionalized for mental health rather than sent to prison. Now Ted is dead and Girl A, Gillian, is missing, did she have anything to do with Ted's death? As DCI Caplan investigates, she also looks into the previous crimes that Gillian had been accused of, not all are black and white, Gillian's home life, when she's there, is also harrowing, to say the least. DCI Caplan is aptly aided by her team who all pitch in under a tight deadline to solve the case. This was a very well written and interesting story, DCI Caplan is also dealing with person issues, a husband who is reluctant to leave the house, and children who had been injured as a result of events in the previous book. I would highly recommend. Thanks to #Netgalley and #Severn House for the ARC.
July 11, 2023
A body is discovered in the water under a bridge. Naturally enough, it's initially suspected to be a suicide. But then, more facts begin to emerge that lead the authorities to think otherwise...
This is the second book about DCI Christine Caplan, but as someone who has not read the first book (yet), I can safely say that this can be read as a stand-alone.
Christine is an interesting character, with a personal life that is almost as complicated as her professional performance is stellar. She swiftly starts making the connections that indicate the presumed suicide is anything but.
"Girl A" was accused of killing people - including a sibling - as a child. Her identity is protected under law, but that does not stop an arsonist from burning her house down and sending her on the run. The dead man also proves to be her mental health provider, so now a teenager already suspected of violent crimes is under suspicion for a new killing - and may be at risk herself.
Christine will have her hands full with this case, but this is a well-observed and intelligently delivered story that will delight readers of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This is the second book about DCI Christine Caplan, but as someone who has not read the first book (yet), I can safely say that this can be read as a stand-alone.
Christine is an interesting character, with a personal life that is almost as complicated as her professional performance is stellar. She swiftly starts making the connections that indicate the presumed suicide is anything but.
"Girl A" was accused of killing people - including a sibling - as a child. Her identity is protected under law, but that does not stop an arsonist from burning her house down and sending her on the run. The dead man also proves to be her mental health provider, so now a teenager already suspected of violent crimes is under suspicion for a new killing - and may be at risk herself.
Christine will have her hands full with this case, but this is a well-observed and intelligently delivered story that will delight readers of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 18, 2023
In Her Blood by Caro Ramsay touches on the challenges of mental illness, of being young, and most especially, of being robbed of your voice and how that can affect your life.
When a body is discovered in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called in to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care. I liked the main character and how real she is portrayed in her actions and dialogue. She is a believable character. She lives in a caravan with no heating and no roof, and her husband has been a shut-in for 7 years. As one character points out, You never know what's going on in anybody else's life.
I enjoyed reading this book and getting to know these characters. I liked how the author unraveled the story and provided tension and build-up to the shocking ending!
I would like to read more by this author. A well-thought-out plot and storyline. I would recommend this book and this author.
#InHerBlood #NetGalley @severnhouse
When a body is discovered in the water at Connel Bridge, the police assume it's an open-and-shut case of suicide. But when DCI Christine Caplan is called in to take a closer look, she discovers that darker truths lurk beneath the surface, and suspicion begins to turn to a young woman recently out of care. I liked the main character and how real she is portrayed in her actions and dialogue. She is a believable character. She lives in a caravan with no heating and no roof, and her husband has been a shut-in for 7 years. As one character points out, You never know what's going on in anybody else's life.
I enjoyed reading this book and getting to know these characters. I liked how the author unraveled the story and provided tension and build-up to the shocking ending!
I would like to read more by this author. A well-thought-out plot and storyline. I would recommend this book and this author.
#InHerBlood #NetGalley @severnhouse
August 1, 2024
This was a complex murder mystery which focusses more on the past crimes of Girl A, an eighteen year old who has been in a secure hospital for a number of years after drowning her friend and has just recently been released. After a man has been found drowned near where Girl A now lives DCI Caplan and her team are tasked with discretely finding out if there is a link to her. This was quite unusual as murder investigations go as there was a lot of research into Girl A but there didn’t feel to be much happening with the murder investigation in a sense. Although you do get a genuine feel there’s a link somewhere I think I did get a bit frustrated with the Girl A story as it felt to drag on a bit. The ending was fantastic, some surprises amongst them but some elements were hinted at throughout the book so it did tie all that together well. The characters were good with interesting dynamics between them and the location atmospheric really helped with the ambience of the story. There were a few times though I couldn’t help questioning quite what the police who originally investigated Girl A were playing at though as it didn’t quite make sense somehow. 7/10
July 11, 2023
I liked this very much. Set in Scotland, the main suspect is a young woman with a troubled youth who is now suspected of the murder of a psychologist who has troubled adolescents as his area of interest. Poor Gillian lost 2 sisters and a friend and has spent time in different institutions. Christine (the DI) has her own problems and as the case moves on is not convinced that Gillian is the murderer.
Not really a police procedural, though there are moments when evidence is explored, there is a lot of team work and interviews with different people in Gillian's and the victims'lives. The action picks up towards the end of the book and there are a couple of twists in the plot, not totally unexpected for me . I like the no nonsense style of writing and the forthright discussion of the investigating team. I have not read the first book in the series, but will do soon . I loved the location and even the minor characters were well portrayed.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Not really a police procedural, though there are moments when evidence is explored, there is a lot of team work and interviews with different people in Gillian's and the victims'lives. The action picks up towards the end of the book and there are a couple of twists in the plot, not totally unexpected for me . I like the no nonsense style of writing and the forthright discussion of the investigating team. I have not read the first book in the series, but will do soon . I loved the location and even the minor characters were well portrayed.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 18, 2023
Christine Caplin has got her rank back as DCI after the events of 'The Devil Stone' case. She is working in various places when she is called back to the West Coast. A body has been found. It looks like it might have been a suicide, the victim having jumped from the Connel Bridge. However there is some doubt. There are suspicions concerning a young woman who recently came out of care. Known only as Girl A, she had been sentenced for killing a younger sibling. Along with her dog, she had escaped from her 'Safe House' after vigilantes had set it on fire. Has she returned to her roots? and if so why?
I read this book straight after finishing 'The Devil Stone' & wished I could dive straight into a Book 3 as I am really enjoying this series! The characters are well written & knowing the setting of the books makes it all the more enjoyable. There are plenty of twists to the tale to keep the reader guessing. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book- bring on Book 3 quickly please!
I read this book straight after finishing 'The Devil Stone' & wished I could dive straight into a Book 3 as I am really enjoying this series! The characters are well written & knowing the setting of the books makes it all the more enjoyable. There are plenty of twists to the tale to keep the reader guessing. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book- bring on Book 3 quickly please!
July 15, 2024
This is the second in a series of books about DCI Christine Caplan, a Glasgow detective working now in the Highland village of Cronchie – I haven’t read the first book but there was enough information on what had happened to get her and her family for that to never feel like a problem. The story here revolves around the recent release of Girl A, responsible for the murder of several children when she was herself a child, and the death of a psychologist working on a book about her.
I really enjoyed this read – the pace is kept up from the first page and the characters and sense of place were all very well written. The plot was very well done and I was genuinely interested to discover exactly what had happened. The story involves some upsetting subject matters and I’m not a fan of gore but this manages to maintain an excellent balance of detail.
For anybody who enjoys a fast paced thriller with strong characters, this would be a superb summer read and perfect to pop in the suitcase.
I really enjoyed this read – the pace is kept up from the first page and the characters and sense of place were all very well written. The plot was very well done and I was genuinely interested to discover exactly what had happened. The story involves some upsetting subject matters and I’m not a fan of gore but this manages to maintain an excellent balance of detail.
For anybody who enjoys a fast paced thriller with strong characters, this would be a superb summer read and perfect to pop in the suitcase.
May 30, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Severn House for an ARC copy
Set in Scotland Book #2 of the DCI Christine Caplan series starts out with a dead body in the water below a local bridge. Suicide is the initial conclusion but because Caplan was in the area finishing off the paperwork from the last case, she's asked to take a look. A closer look reveals it's murder not suicide. Once identified, the victim links to the case of Girl A. Girl A was convicted of killing two people when she was a child. She's now a young woman, released from the young offender's program, and on the run from vigilante justice. The subject matter of this book might be difficult for some but it's written with great care.
An excellent series. I'm a huge fan of Caro Ramsay's work. I love her flawed characters, but she doesn't devote too much time to their stories that it takes away from the book's mystery. Highly recommend this and any of her other books.
Set in Scotland Book #2 of the DCI Christine Caplan series starts out with a dead body in the water below a local bridge. Suicide is the initial conclusion but because Caplan was in the area finishing off the paperwork from the last case, she's asked to take a look. A closer look reveals it's murder not suicide. Once identified, the victim links to the case of Girl A. Girl A was convicted of killing two people when she was a child. She's now a young woman, released from the young offender's program, and on the run from vigilante justice. The subject matter of this book might be difficult for some but it's written with great care.
An excellent series. I'm a huge fan of Caro Ramsay's work. I love her flawed characters, but she doesn't devote too much time to their stories that it takes away from the book's mystery. Highly recommend this and any of her other books.
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