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Slater & Norman Mystery #5
The Red Telephone Box
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN B015QGBW90 can be found here
Doesn't everyone dread a bad news phone call in the early hours?
It’s the middle of the night, and DS Dave Slater’s phone is ringing. The bad news is his friend and colleague, DS Norman Norman’s home is on fire, and there’s a frightening possibility to consider. His friend may be trapped inside the burning building!
Rushing to the scene, Slater discovers his colleague isn’t inside, but relief quickly turns to alarm when he realises there’s no sign of Norman and he’s not answering his phone. Minutes quickly stretch into hours and still there’s no sign.
Then, finally, a breakthrough. A man, possibly a Russian, was seen in the vicinity. But is this good news, or have things just gone from bad to worse?
Slater feels it’s now even more of a race against time. But as is so often the way, the more he hurries, the more he seems to find obstacles in the way.
And still the clock is ticking…
Doesn't everyone dread a bad news phone call in the early hours?
It’s the middle of the night, and DS Dave Slater’s phone is ringing. The bad news is his friend and colleague, DS Norman Norman’s home is on fire, and there’s a frightening possibility to consider. His friend may be trapped inside the burning building!
Rushing to the scene, Slater discovers his colleague isn’t inside, but relief quickly turns to alarm when he realises there’s no sign of Norman and he’s not answering his phone. Minutes quickly stretch into hours and still there’s no sign.
Then, finally, a breakthrough. A man, possibly a Russian, was seen in the vicinity. But is this good news, or have things just gone from bad to worse?
Slater feels it’s now even more of a race against time. But as is so often the way, the more he hurries, the more he seems to find obstacles in the way.
And still the clock is ticking…
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2015
1005 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
P.F. Ford
54 books236 followersHaving spent most of his life trying to be what everyone else wanted him to be, P.F. (Peter) Ford was a late starter when it came to writing. He had tried writing a novel many years ago (before the advent of self-publishing), only to be turned down by every publisher he approached. It was very much a case of being told by those around him, ‘now you know you can’t write, so get back to work!’
Even at an early age, Peter felt very much like the proverbial square peg being forced into a round hole. This resulted in the creation of a Grammar School drop-out who then drifted through a succession of unfulfilling jobs, finally ending up in a totally unsuitable role which eventually sapped his energy and self-confidence. There followed a brief foray into self-employment (not a good idea for someone lacking in self-confidence!) which ended in total financial melt-down, a mountain of debt, and a lapse into depression.
Faced with the fact that he’d never be happy as he was, Peter finally decided he had no intention of continuing that way, and things just had to change. This was achieved by closing the door on his old life and starting over. Fast forward a few years and you find a man transformed, his newly found positive attitude enabling him to find new partner (now wife), Mary, who shares his belief that dreamers should be encouraged and not denied.
He first wrote, (under the name Peter Ford), and self-published , several short books about the life changing benefits of positive thinking. Now, completely free of the hindrance of worrying about what other people think, he’s blissfully happy writing the D.S. Dave Slater mystery novels and what he calls the ‘digital fiction marmite’ (people tend to love it or hate it!) that is the Alfie Bowman Novella series.
Peter and Mary recently completed a shared dream when they married and moved to a beautiful region of Wales where they spend much of their spare time walking their three dogs, and relaxing and having fun with friends. They believe they are living proof that you should never give up on your dreams, because it’s never too late!
Even at an early age, Peter felt very much like the proverbial square peg being forced into a round hole. This resulted in the creation of a Grammar School drop-out who then drifted through a succession of unfulfilling jobs, finally ending up in a totally unsuitable role which eventually sapped his energy and self-confidence. There followed a brief foray into self-employment (not a good idea for someone lacking in self-confidence!) which ended in total financial melt-down, a mountain of debt, and a lapse into depression.
Faced with the fact that he’d never be happy as he was, Peter finally decided he had no intention of continuing that way, and things just had to change. This was achieved by closing the door on his old life and starting over. Fast forward a few years and you find a man transformed, his newly found positive attitude enabling him to find new partner (now wife), Mary, who shares his belief that dreamers should be encouraged and not denied.
He first wrote, (under the name Peter Ford), and self-published , several short books about the life changing benefits of positive thinking. Now, completely free of the hindrance of worrying about what other people think, he’s blissfully happy writing the D.S. Dave Slater mystery novels and what he calls the ‘digital fiction marmite’ (people tend to love it or hate it!) that is the Alfie Bowman Novella series.
Peter and Mary recently completed a shared dream when they married and moved to a beautiful region of Wales where they spend much of their spare time walking their three dogs, and relaxing and having fun with friends. They believe they are living proof that you should never give up on your dreams, because it’s never too late!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 14, 2022
Ds Slater's partner, DS Norman, is missing. A new DI is brought in to supervise the case, DI Marian Goodnews. Slater has never worked for a woman before, but he comes to realize that she is a very good boss, much better than the man who previously ran the station. But where is Norman? Was he kidnapped by an old enemy? The Russian mafia? I enjoy British police procedurals, and liked the interaction between Goodnews and Slater, but I was disappointed that the author dropped one of the key plot elements, a threatening encounter with a Russian mobster, and never resolved it.
March 2, 2023
The red phone box has such a small part in this book it could have been called anything. As a police procedural it was a bit slow.
May 1, 2023
Reviewed as box set
December 16, 2022
Though the mystery was decent I didn't really warm up to DS Slater and DI Goodnews as a team. All the damned smiling and getting beet red. At times I thought I was reading some crappy romance novel - you know - I hate you, well I hate you too....but, really, secretly it's love. Ugh. It wasn't like that in this book but some of the interactions between them were a bit weird.
September 9, 2017
Excellent
Another excellent story by Mr. Ford, loved the way the story unfolded, cant wait to see what is in store for D.S. Slater and co in "The secret of Wild Boar woods" .
Another excellent story by Mr. Ford, loved the way the story unfolded, cant wait to see what is in store for D.S. Slater and co in "The secret of Wild Boar woods" .
December 25, 2017
Great series
Can't wait to read the next one.
This book kept me guessing until the very unexpected ending. Very good mystery.
Can't wait to read the next one.
This book kept me guessing until the very unexpected ending. Very good mystery.
October 11, 2022
Very enjoyable story.
I’m giving 4 Stars but wish I could give 5. It’s a good and well developed story that obviously will lead to more Slater/Goodreads stories. Hardly anything is left hanging except for one small hole that needed explanation. Slater is just a touch slow on the uptake seeming to not catch what’s happening from time to time. That’s his character and it is believable for the most part. The ending is predictable very early but not the resolution of the case. The one major criticism we have is that Goodreads (which is really an odd name) and Slater are written with overly sensitive personalities. Too much tit for tat and complaining about what and how each speak to each other. Too much concern from both about how they feel about each other. The train station platform incident was overdone. It made me embarrassed that two adults would have such a reaction to each other. In all we’re looking forward to another installment of Slater/Goodreads.
I’m giving 4 Stars but wish I could give 5. It’s a good and well developed story that obviously will lead to more Slater/Goodreads stories. Hardly anything is left hanging except for one small hole that needed explanation. Slater is just a touch slow on the uptake seeming to not catch what’s happening from time to time. That’s his character and it is believable for the most part. The ending is predictable very early but not the resolution of the case. The one major criticism we have is that Goodreads (which is really an odd name) and Slater are written with overly sensitive personalities. Too much tit for tat and complaining about what and how each speak to each other. Too much concern from both about how they feel about each other. The train station platform incident was overdone. It made me embarrassed that two adults would have such a reaction to each other. In all we’re looking forward to another installment of Slater/Goodreads.
February 5, 2017
Almost there...
(MAY CONTAIN SOME 'ALMOST' SPOILERS) TRTB is almost the "Buddy Cop" book it wants to be but it misses the mark by trying to be too clever. Obvious clues are missed, ridiculous confusions, very unbelievable situations (a threatening Russian who we are supposed to believe is a tough guy, but he isnt out to hurt anyone!?) come on! And what about the threat to Slater's girlfriend? It's briefly mentioned but never during the investigation. And what happened to her? Is she vacationing or was she kidnapped? And why didnt he alert officials where she is supposed to be traveling? Sloppy.
Ive read this book and the one before it in this series only because they were offered in 'Kindle Unlimited'. I'll likely read the next but if I had paid full price I'd be very disappointed. The series has a good foundation, let's hope the next one is better.
(MAY CONTAIN SOME 'ALMOST' SPOILERS) TRTB is almost the "Buddy Cop" book it wants to be but it misses the mark by trying to be too clever. Obvious clues are missed, ridiculous confusions, very unbelievable situations (a threatening Russian who we are supposed to believe is a tough guy, but he isnt out to hurt anyone!?) come on! And what about the threat to Slater's girlfriend? It's briefly mentioned but never during the investigation. And what happened to her? Is she vacationing or was she kidnapped? And why didnt he alert officials where she is supposed to be traveling? Sloppy.
Ive read this book and the one before it in this series only because they were offered in 'Kindle Unlimited'. I'll likely read the next but if I had paid full price I'd be very disappointed. The series has a good foundation, let's hope the next one is better.
October 27, 2022
Two episodes
I would rate the book a five star if the last 20 percent of the book was like the first 80 percent. So I gave a five star for the first 80 percent and a 3 star for the last 20 percent.
In the first 80 percent of the book the author spent a lot of detail in building the characters and the mystery of the disappearance of the Sargent. The last 20 percent was almost like a different author. The story became a "hurry up" tale to close out the story. Even the characters took on amateurish qualities.
Over all the narrative was a good read with no foul language,sexual overtones or graphic violence.
I would rate the book a five star if the last 20 percent of the book was like the first 80 percent. So I gave a five star for the first 80 percent and a 3 star for the last 20 percent.
In the first 80 percent of the book the author spent a lot of detail in building the characters and the mystery of the disappearance of the Sargent. The last 20 percent was almost like a different author. The story became a "hurry up" tale to close out the story. Even the characters took on amateurish qualities.
Over all the narrative was a good read with no foul language,sexual overtones or graphic violence.
September 26, 2022
the author finally changed the personality of the main character
I had trouble making myself read this book at first because I didn’t care for the main character, Slater. It became an easier read as his personality changed in response to his new ‘acting’ boss. There was a twist that I didn’t expect when they identified the bad guy. Slater’s response to his hew boss was a bit predictable, but it improved his attitude toward other work individuals. I probably won’t read more from this author as I found it alternately difficult or easier to read.
I had trouble making myself read this book at first because I didn’t care for the main character, Slater. It became an easier read as his personality changed in response to his new ‘acting’ boss. There was a twist that I didn’t expect when they identified the bad guy. Slater’s response to his hew boss was a bit predictable, but it improved his attitude toward other work individuals. I probably won’t read more from this author as I found it alternately difficult or easier to read.
October 11, 2022
I really liked this mystery. The story had complexity and was well written. It is the first Slater/Norman mystery so I am not familiar with the Slater and Norman history. I did tire of Slater and Goodreads constant bickering. They both seemed overly sensitive and concerned that the other liked them. The incident on the train platform was overdone with too much objection for adults. It was young adult behavior. Easy to read any well paced some was predictable but more was not. One point was not resolvrd well and left hanging but no others really. No to start with #1.
June 29, 2025
DS Dave Slater of the Tinton police is roused at 3 AM with the news that the apartment of his friend and colleague DS Norman Norman is on fire. Fortunately the apartment is empty, but where is Norman?
DI Marion Goodnews is brought in to lead the search for the missing Norman. Slater has to quickly adjust to having a new boss, but the two quickly become an effective team to solve the puzzling mystery.
Goodnews is a welcome addition to the cast of characters in this entertaining series.
DI Marion Goodnews is brought in to lead the search for the missing Norman. Slater has to quickly adjust to having a new boss, but the two quickly become an effective team to solve the puzzling mystery.
Goodnews is a welcome addition to the cast of characters in this entertaining series.
April 8, 2022
Not as good as the previous 4!
Bit still a good, well written book. I think it felt drawn out to me because it was a new character development, and that always makes the storyline stretch out. And DS Slater just isn't as slow on the uptake as he was portrayed in this one. And it was an original plot and subplot. Now I'm off to see how these two are going to get along in the long run!
Bit still a good, well written book. I think it felt drawn out to me because it was a new character development, and that always makes the storyline stretch out. And DS Slater just isn't as slow on the uptake as he was portrayed in this one. And it was an original plot and subplot. Now I'm off to see how these two are going to get along in the long run!
September 16, 2022
Norm's gone missing and the suspects are piling up but they just don't add up. Dave and the new DCI Marion Goodnews (where did that name come from ?) team up to narrow down the suspects and eventually find Norm at the mercy of Jane Jolly's husband but he has been manipulated into committing the kidnap under duress for Norm's ex wife's boyfriend Tommy Howe who is his sworn enemy for whatever reason. Good story with plenty of humour and teamwork, worth reading.
January 3, 2024
Who Will You Believe
At first I was not overly impressed by The Red Telephone Box, but as I read on it became a page turner for me. Although Slater and Norman were very different, their partnership in the police department forged a strong bond. One man is told a lie that causes much bigger problems for several others. I do recommend this novel, but it is probably better to start at book one.
At first I was not overly impressed by The Red Telephone Box, but as I read on it became a page turner for me. Although Slater and Norman were very different, their partnership in the police department forged a strong bond. One man is told a lie that causes much bigger problems for several others. I do recommend this novel, but it is probably better to start at book one.
January 16, 2025
A pretty straight forward book that tried to be smart. The lead characters, notably "DI Goodnews" is annoying, and Slater and her relationship feels weird and really cringe. Bosses who try to be friends while constantly pulling rank are terrible...its not an admirable trait. Its an instant turnoff. Goodnews was a shitty boss who the author spent the entire book trying to convince the reader was great.
Its another example of how to not right a strong female character through a male lens.
Its another example of how to not right a strong female character through a male lens.
February 26, 2021
Suspenseful
I enjoyed the prior book which was a good police procedural with a clever plot. This was even better . Norman goes missing so this is
More of a thriller. With the addition of a new woman character who is Slater's temporary boss and sparring partner, there is a touch of....well I hope it will grow into romance.
I enjoyed the prior book which was a good police procedural with a clever plot. This was even better . Norman goes missing so this is
More of a thriller. With the addition of a new woman character who is Slater's temporary boss and sparring partner, there is a touch of....well I hope it will grow into romance.
October 4, 2022
Really enjoyed it!
This is a new author for me, but I have a penchant for British crime/police procedurals... I was not disappointed. And I have a rather high bar, being a devotee of the late, Great, Tim Ellis (Parish Richards series, etc). I loved the characters, the plot was nicely rolled out, it was well done.
Definitely recommend!
This is a new author for me, but I have a penchant for British crime/police procedurals... I was not disappointed. And I have a rather high bar, being a devotee of the late, Great, Tim Ellis (Parish Richards series, etc). I loved the characters, the plot was nicely rolled out, it was well done.
Definitely recommend!
November 8, 2022
Exactly the sort of book I enjoy most - police procedural, amusing characters that are a bit problematic but not too much, steady-paced plot, engaging writing style.
The author's blurb for the story tells you enough to know what it's about, so I'm just giving a short summary of my reaction.
Good old Bookbub has just offered me a cheap triple box-set of books from this series - I'm getting them!
The author's blurb for the story tells you enough to know what it's about, so I'm just giving a short summary of my reaction.
Good old Bookbub has just offered me a cheap triple box-set of books from this series - I'm getting them!
December 11, 2022
Well, this was different, but I was mesmerized by it. At first, I couldn’t figure out where this was going and then I figured it doesn’t matter. It’s so interesting just go with it. And then I had to laugh when Norman didn’t take credit for anything. I really like Goodnews. And that figures about Jane. So onto the next book!!
February 4, 2023
Excellent novel.
This is an excellent novel, as usual, from Mr. Ford. Very good character and situation details without too many words(!). I always look forward to reading his books. Anybody with a liking for mystery novels, especially British mystery books, will be delighted with these.
This is an excellent novel, as usual, from Mr. Ford. Very good character and situation details without too many words(!). I always look forward to reading his books. Anybody with a liking for mystery novels, especially British mystery books, will be delighted with these.
Read
May 29, 2023Proper policing
I love the Slater and Norman series and also the Rejoiner series. So easy to read but not so easy to solve. As a long retired 30 year Police officer it reminds me of how policing was carried out. When you had support from your bosses and colleagues you can rely on.Great stories, well written. Please carry on Me Ford.
I love the Slater and Norman series and also the Rejoiner series. So easy to read but not so easy to solve. As a long retired 30 year Police officer it reminds me of how policing was carried out. When you had support from your bosses and colleagues you can rely on.Great stories, well written. Please carry on Me Ford.
July 4, 2023
Whose Boss
Very interesting mix of plot and human interaction / expectations. Characters are very well defined such that readers believe their interactions are valid. So many different dimensions are brought into the story that should keep any reader interested. Very creative work.
Very interesting mix of plot and human interaction / expectations. Characters are very well defined such that readers believe their interactions are valid. So many different dimensions are brought into the story that should keep any reader interested. Very creative work.
December 7, 2024
Lots of Action
I recently discovered the Slater & Norman Mysteries and I'm a fan now. In this mystery Norman disappears with no warning to his colleagues at work. His apartment is incinerated but he's not there to be in danger. He goes missing though and Slater fears the worst. It's a gtipping story and hard to put down.All I cam say is Try It, You'll Like It.
I recently discovered the Slater & Norman Mysteries and I'm a fan now. In this mystery Norman disappears with no warning to his colleagues at work. His apartment is incinerated but he's not there to be in danger. He goes missing though and Slater fears the worst. It's a gtipping story and hard to put down.All I cam say is Try It, You'll Like It.
April 30, 2022
The new broom has arrived!
DI Goodnews has arrived! Brought in to find Norm, she quickly settles into the group. But all is not as it seems!! A really good, and surprising, plot twist, made this my favorite book yet in the series.
DI Goodnews has arrived! Brought in to find Norm, she quickly settles into the group. But all is not as it seems!! A really good, and surprising, plot twist, made this my favorite book yet in the series.
September 1, 2022
PF. Ford writes a good story. His characters are real and alive, villains or law abiding. This Norman and Slater was mostly Slater because Norman was abducted. While the plot might be a bit unbelievable it was all very entertaining.
September 8, 2022
Twists and Turns
I gave this book a five star rating because it kept me intrigued right up to the very end. I thought I had the story all figured out, and then the author introduced a new possibility. Looking forward to more books in this series.
I gave this book a five star rating because it kept me intrigued right up to the very end. I thought I had the story all figured out, and then the author introduced a new possibility. Looking forward to more books in this series.
September 8, 2022
Goodnews is here to stay
An entertaining romp through the English countryside to save one of their own, Slater, Goodnews and crew get the job done. With more than a good dose of British humour, we have another winner from P F Ford.
An entertaining romp through the English countryside to save one of their own, Slater, Goodnews and crew get the job done. With more than a good dose of British humour, we have another winner from P F Ford.
September 18, 2022
Another very well written Inspector Series.
I particularly enjoyed learning about the character traits of each main character as the author built this mysterious disappearance of a police detective. I look forward to reading more about Norman, Slater, and DI Good news.
I particularly enjoyed learning about the character traits of each main character as the author built this mysterious disappearance of a police detective. I look forward to reading more about Norman, Slater, and DI Good news.
September 26, 2022
DS Slater is horrified that his friend and partner Norman Norman is missing. He can't imagine what has happened. The only answer must be that he's been kidnapped. But they find him seemingly leaving town on his own. There are some clumsy clues that seem legit. The suspense builds to a shocking end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews