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Detective Kate Young #5
A Soul for a Soul
381 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2024
357 people are currently reading
3262 people want to read
About the author
Carol Wyer
37 books1,235 followersUSA Today bestselling author and winner of The People's Book Prize Award, Carol Wyer's crime novels have sold over one million copies and been translated into nine languages.
A move from humour to the 'dark side' in 2017, saw the introduction of popular DI Robyn Carter in Little Girl Lost and proved that Carol had found her true niche.
In 2021, An Eye For An Eye, the first in the DI Kate Young series, was chosen as a Kindle First Reads. It became the #1 bestselling book on Amazon UK and Australia. The third, A Life For A Life, is due out March 15th, 2022, but is available to preorder.
Carol has had articles published in national magazines 'Woman's Weekly', featured in 'Take A Break', 'Choice', 'Yours' and 'Woman's Own' magazines and written for the Huffington Post. She's also been interviewed on numerous radio shows and on BBC Breakfast television.
She currently lives on a windy hill in rural Staffordshire with her husband Mr. Grumpy who is very, very grumpy.
When not plotting devious murders, she can be found performing her comedy routine, Smile While You Still Have Teeth.
To learn more, go to www.carolwyer.co.uk, subscribe to her YouTube channel, or follow her on Twitter @carolewyer
A move from humour to the 'dark side' in 2017, saw the introduction of popular DI Robyn Carter in Little Girl Lost and proved that Carol had found her true niche.
In 2021, An Eye For An Eye, the first in the DI Kate Young series, was chosen as a Kindle First Reads. It became the #1 bestselling book on Amazon UK and Australia. The third, A Life For A Life, is due out March 15th, 2022, but is available to preorder.
Carol has had articles published in national magazines 'Woman's Weekly', featured in 'Take A Break', 'Choice', 'Yours' and 'Woman's Own' magazines and written for the Huffington Post. She's also been interviewed on numerous radio shows and on BBC Breakfast television.
She currently lives on a windy hill in rural Staffordshire with her husband Mr. Grumpy who is very, very grumpy.
When not plotting devious murders, she can be found performing her comedy routine, Smile While You Still Have Teeth.
To learn more, go to www.carolwyer.co.uk, subscribe to her YouTube channel, or follow her on Twitter @carolewyer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
November 6, 2023
DCI Kate Young #5
Kate remains haunted by the past, the trauma of the situation with Superintendent John Dickson and her dangerous quest to unmasked the corrupt syndicate. This has altered her, she is stressed, fearful and guilt ridden. It’s not just Dickson, the murders of her husband, Chris, and of her mentor and surrogate father, DCI, William Chase seems to have sucked the life out of her.
DI Harriet Khatri is awaiting trial for Chase‘s murder, but she protests her innocence and claims she has been set up, framed by the syndicate. It’s yet another thing to weigh Kate down, but she does agree to Harriet‘s pleas to make covert enquiries. As if all this isn’t enough, a body of a badly decomposed young woman is found on a new housing estate, an investigation which Kate assigns to DI Emma Donaldson. The latter enquiry becomes increasingly chilling and strikes close to home.
I really like the parallel story lines, following Kate as she continues to search for corrupt syndicate officers and Emma, with the murdered woman enquiry alongside her partner, DI, Morgan Meredith, who is involved with Operation Moonbeam into people trafficking. I enjoy following Emma and Morgan, Emma goes the extra mile in her new role with Morgan submerged in his difficult inquiry where it’s difficult to get a break. The strain in their relationship is perhaps inevitable. The plot strands work well together with the storyline, flowing and keeping you guessing.
Kate’s situation, her torment and her admirable determination to keep going, despite the personal cost, is done well. However, if anything, I think the author overdoes her suffering with the voices in her head becoming a bit much and somewhat repetitive. Katie is treading a fine line, it could all unravel and I like this aspect of the plot as it keeps you wondering and thinking.
As usual, Carole Wyer comes up with the goods in terms of twists and turns. One I do guess, but another is so good as it’s a real surprise. There’s plenty of tension which at times is palpable and there are numerous suspenseful moments. The plot is well paced, there is plenty of action as it goes from one protagonist to another, there is danger, chills, and spills, taking us through to a good ending. The ultimate ending is a real cliffhanger, naughty, Ms Wyer … Keeping us in suspense, wondering… Speculating! Okay, well played!! A great way to end this immersive read.
Overall, I really like Carole Wyer books as she never fails to deliver a cracking read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Thomas and Mercer for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Kate remains haunted by the past, the trauma of the situation with Superintendent John Dickson and her dangerous quest to unmasked the corrupt syndicate. This has altered her, she is stressed, fearful and guilt ridden. It’s not just Dickson, the murders of her husband, Chris, and of her mentor and surrogate father, DCI, William Chase seems to have sucked the life out of her.
DI Harriet Khatri is awaiting trial for Chase‘s murder, but she protests her innocence and claims she has been set up, framed by the syndicate. It’s yet another thing to weigh Kate down, but she does agree to Harriet‘s pleas to make covert enquiries. As if all this isn’t enough, a body of a badly decomposed young woman is found on a new housing estate, an investigation which Kate assigns to DI Emma Donaldson. The latter enquiry becomes increasingly chilling and strikes close to home.
I really like the parallel story lines, following Kate as she continues to search for corrupt syndicate officers and Emma, with the murdered woman enquiry alongside her partner, DI, Morgan Meredith, who is involved with Operation Moonbeam into people trafficking. I enjoy following Emma and Morgan, Emma goes the extra mile in her new role with Morgan submerged in his difficult inquiry where it’s difficult to get a break. The strain in their relationship is perhaps inevitable. The plot strands work well together with the storyline, flowing and keeping you guessing.
Kate’s situation, her torment and her admirable determination to keep going, despite the personal cost, is done well. However, if anything, I think the author overdoes her suffering with the voices in her head becoming a bit much and somewhat repetitive. Katie is treading a fine line, it could all unravel and I like this aspect of the plot as it keeps you wondering and thinking.
As usual, Carole Wyer comes up with the goods in terms of twists and turns. One I do guess, but another is so good as it’s a real surprise. There’s plenty of tension which at times is palpable and there are numerous suspenseful moments. The plot is well paced, there is plenty of action as it goes from one protagonist to another, there is danger, chills, and spills, taking us through to a good ending. The ultimate ending is a real cliffhanger, naughty, Ms Wyer … Keeping us in suspense, wondering… Speculating! Okay, well played!! A great way to end this immersive read.
Overall, I really like Carole Wyer books as she never fails to deliver a cracking read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Thomas and Mercer for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
December 10, 2023
A soul for a soul by Carol Wyer is book 5 in the series and another great episode in the series.
Since the previous novel, Kate Young is now DCI after her friend and mentor William died. She is feeling guilty about his death and the death of Superintendent John Dickenson which she played apart of. So, with that and her determination to find the members of the syndicate and take them down. She also missing her part in the investigations and going out on the beat. As her job is more of a desk job, giving orders to other people.
Meanwhile Emma Donaldson is now a DI. She oversees an investigation of a serial killer/robber who incapacitates his victims with drugs and then robs them of their belongings.
This is another great police procedural by the author that I enjoyed. This is a more complex case then in previous novels and two timelines with the other of Kate doing her own leg work to try and find the other members of the syndicate. Even investigating some of her own colleagues in the process as Kate doesn’t know who she can trust. I don’t know if it was me just personally, although I did enjoy this. I found the story quite long and wondering if this the end of Kate is or is their more to come. 4 stars from me.
Since the previous novel, Kate Young is now DCI after her friend and mentor William died. She is feeling guilty about his death and the death of Superintendent John Dickenson which she played apart of. So, with that and her determination to find the members of the syndicate and take them down. She also missing her part in the investigations and going out on the beat. As her job is more of a desk job, giving orders to other people.
Meanwhile Emma Donaldson is now a DI. She oversees an investigation of a serial killer/robber who incapacitates his victims with drugs and then robs them of their belongings.
This is another great police procedural by the author that I enjoyed. This is a more complex case then in previous novels and two timelines with the other of Kate doing her own leg work to try and find the other members of the syndicate. Even investigating some of her own colleagues in the process as Kate doesn’t know who she can trust. I don’t know if it was me just personally, although I did enjoy this. I found the story quite long and wondering if this the end of Kate is or is their more to come. 4 stars from me.
February 2, 2024
A SOUL FOR A SOUL is the fifth book in the Detective Kate Young Series by award-winning author of mystery and romance novels, Carol Wyer. Having enjoyed reading some of her other series; Detective Robyn Carter and Detective Natalie Ward, I was looking forward to continuing with this new detective series. This book can be read as a standalone, but these books are better read in order for clarity in the storyline of the continuing personal investigation by Kate into her investigative journalist husband, Chris’ murder.
The novels in the Detective Kate Young Series Include:
Book 1-An Eye For An Eye (2021)
Book 2-A Cut For A Cut (2021)
Book 3-A Life For A Life (2022)
Book 4-A Truth For A Truth (2023)
Book 5-A Soul For A Soul (2024)
This is my review of A Soul For A Soul.
In Book 1 DI Kate Young had been on leave after suffering a traumatic experience. She’s the force’s best detective, but suffered from nightmares and her bosses knew she was under pressure, on medication and booze to overcome the trauma. Kate was still grieving the loss of her husband, Chris, who was murdered by a hitman. Her boss, Superintendent John Dickson placed her on mandatory sick leave, after a breakdown on a train.
A few months later, Kate’s friend and friend of her late father, DCI William Chase comes to tell her that her boss wants her back at work, to hunt down a serial killer. Kate accepted the offer and chose two of her fellow officers from her old team, DS Morgan Meredith (dedicated worker that had worked closely on several tough cases in the past) and DS Emma Donaldson (an expert in marital arts).
Then in Book 2, A Cut For A Cut, DI Kate Young and her team are called to a crime scene where a woman had been brutally raped, and dumped. There are few clues and no suspects.
Then in Book 3, A Life For A Life, DI Kate Young is still grieving the death of her husband and running the major crimes department. All the while she is trying to finish the work that her husband was doing to take down corruption in the force. Kate believes that her corrupt boss, superintendent John Dickson, was behind the murder of her husband, Chris, and is gathering evidence to bring down her boss.
Then in Book 4, A Truth For A Truth DI Kate Young. Kate confronts her evil boss
Superintendent John Dickson, and accidentally shoots and kills him. Now she must cover her tracks to avoid arrest. Dickson is reported missing and Kate is assigned to the case to investigate possible corruption.
Now in Book 5, things have changed since the last book and Kate is now. DCI after her boss, mentor and friend William is murdered. Kate must take down the syndicate. Even though DCI Kate Young never meant to shoot Superintendent John Dickson at the reservoir…it was no loss as he was a corrupt cop and head of the syndicate.
Kate must expose the rest of the corrupt officers. DI Harriet Khatri, awaiting trial for the murder William, Kate’s mentor, claims she was framed by Dickson’s syndicate.
Meanwhile, DI Emma Donaldson finds herself on the hunt for a double murderer―a man who incapacitates his victims with a powerful narcotic called Devil’s Breath.
This was a fast paced, well-written police procedural novel, full of action, mystery and suspense.
Many thanks to the author, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for my digital copy.
The novels in the Detective Kate Young Series Include:
Book 1-An Eye For An Eye (2021)
Book 2-A Cut For A Cut (2021)
Book 3-A Life For A Life (2022)
Book 4-A Truth For A Truth (2023)
Book 5-A Soul For A Soul (2024)
This is my review of A Soul For A Soul.
In Book 1 DI Kate Young had been on leave after suffering a traumatic experience. She’s the force’s best detective, but suffered from nightmares and her bosses knew she was under pressure, on medication and booze to overcome the trauma. Kate was still grieving the loss of her husband, Chris, who was murdered by a hitman. Her boss, Superintendent John Dickson placed her on mandatory sick leave, after a breakdown on a train.
A few months later, Kate’s friend and friend of her late father, DCI William Chase comes to tell her that her boss wants her back at work, to hunt down a serial killer. Kate accepted the offer and chose two of her fellow officers from her old team, DS Morgan Meredith (dedicated worker that had worked closely on several tough cases in the past) and DS Emma Donaldson (an expert in marital arts).
Then in Book 2, A Cut For A Cut, DI Kate Young and her team are called to a crime scene where a woman had been brutally raped, and dumped. There are few clues and no suspects.
Then in Book 3, A Life For A Life, DI Kate Young is still grieving the death of her husband and running the major crimes department. All the while she is trying to finish the work that her husband was doing to take down corruption in the force. Kate believes that her corrupt boss, superintendent John Dickson, was behind the murder of her husband, Chris, and is gathering evidence to bring down her boss.
Then in Book 4, A Truth For A Truth DI Kate Young. Kate confronts her evil boss
Superintendent John Dickson, and accidentally shoots and kills him. Now she must cover her tracks to avoid arrest. Dickson is reported missing and Kate is assigned to the case to investigate possible corruption.
Now in Book 5, things have changed since the last book and Kate is now. DCI after her boss, mentor and friend William is murdered. Kate must take down the syndicate. Even though DCI Kate Young never meant to shoot Superintendent John Dickson at the reservoir…it was no loss as he was a corrupt cop and head of the syndicate.
Kate must expose the rest of the corrupt officers. DI Harriet Khatri, awaiting trial for the murder William, Kate’s mentor, claims she was framed by Dickson’s syndicate.
Meanwhile, DI Emma Donaldson finds herself on the hunt for a double murderer―a man who incapacitates his victims with a powerful narcotic called Devil’s Breath.
This was a fast paced, well-written police procedural novel, full of action, mystery and suspense.
Many thanks to the author, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for my digital copy.
June 24, 2024
This is the fifth book in the Detective Kate Young series.
Every book in this series has been addictive and beautifully written. A soul For A Soul is no exception.
Each book is cleverly written and can be read as standalone’s, but I feel that you’ll get more out of the series by reading from the beginning as we get a better feel for Kate and developing characters.
Wyer has a great knack for character development, I’ve been rooting for Kate from the first book. Cleverly plotted, excellent storyline and another winner in this series. I really hope there is more to come in this series.
Huge thanks to Thomas and Mercer for an advanced E-arc. A Soul For A Soul is out now - and I highly recommend the whole series.
Every book in this series has been addictive and beautifully written. A soul For A Soul is no exception.
Each book is cleverly written and can be read as standalone’s, but I feel that you’ll get more out of the series by reading from the beginning as we get a better feel for Kate and developing characters.
Wyer has a great knack for character development, I’ve been rooting for Kate from the first book. Cleverly plotted, excellent storyline and another winner in this series. I really hope there is more to come in this series.
Huge thanks to Thomas and Mercer for an advanced E-arc. A Soul For A Soul is out now - and I highly recommend the whole series.
October 29, 2023
Carol Wyer always delivers with her police procedural series, and A Soul for a Soul was no exception. Things have changed since the last book and Kate is now. DCI after her boss, mentor and friend William is murdered. She is grieving while still trying to take down the syndicate. She is running out of people to trust. To top it all off she now has 2 voices in her head with Dickson and William and it is distracting her from what she should be doing.
Meanwhile Emma has been promoted to DI and lands a murder case with many people in the victims life not telling the whole truth. He relationship with Morgan is under strain and she really wants to make a good impression on her first case in charge.
I really liked the stories of the 2 women running side by side in this book. I hope that we will hear from both again, that ending not really telling us either way. I always look forward to reading this authors work.
Thanks to Thomas and Mercer for the advanced copy of this book to read. Published on January 30th
Meanwhile Emma has been promoted to DI and lands a murder case with many people in the victims life not telling the whole truth. He relationship with Morgan is under strain and she really wants to make a good impression on her first case in charge.
I really liked the stories of the 2 women running side by side in this book. I hope that we will hear from both again, that ending not really telling us either way. I always look forward to reading this authors work.
Thanks to Thomas and Mercer for the advanced copy of this book to read. Published on January 30th
January 26, 2024
3.5 stars
A Soul for a Soul by Carol Wyer is the fifth in the Detective Kate Young series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – Contains spoilers from previous books)
DI Kate Young witnessed the aftermath of a massive shooting on a train, which included her husband’s body. He was a journalist, hot on the trail of corruption. Her boss, DCI William Case, was more of a father-figure and mentor, and he has recently been murdered. They were both trying to figure out who in the police department are corrupt. Kate accidentally killed Superintendent John Dickson, who was definitely corrupt, and actually confessed his part in the death of her husband. Kate has hidden her crime, but she thinks someone knows. She had been hearing voices of her dead husband Chris, and now Case and Dickson have both added their voices.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Kate has recently been promoted to DCI, and she's not sure that she likes taking a backseat to crime, but it does give her more time to try and figure out who among her fellow police officers are part of the syndicate. She also needs to find out who knows that she is the one who killed Dickson.
DI Emma Donaldson is searching for a man who is incapacitating his victims with a deadly narcotic. So far two women have been found dead, but they start to wonder if there may be more. It's Emma's first stab at being a DI, and she wants to prove herself to Kate, but she may become reckless. She has recently moved in with her boyfriend, fellow officer Morgan Meredith, who is running his own case against the human traffickers. The pair are having issues.
When DI Harriet Khatri approaches Kate for help, Kate wants to say no. Harriet is awaiting trial for the murder of Kate's mentor William Case, but she is insisting she is innocent.
Meanwhile, the voices in Kate's head are getting more vocal, and Kate is starting to fear for her sanity.
My Opinions:
Well, another police procedural series about corruption. That's all I'm saying about the topic - which I hate.
This, however, really concentrated a lot on side-plots, and I definitely enjoyed them. I didn't particularly like Emma and her relationship with Morgan. She blamed him for everything.
At points I found myself skimming, as it was somewhat overly descriptive and repetitive. However, it had a major twist as to the identity of one of the syndicate, which I definitely did not see coming....I loved that!
Overall, it wasn't a bad book, but again, it had an ending which I didn't like. The other thing that this series has going for it, is that they are relatively easy reads. It looks like the next book will be more corruption, so I may not be quite as quick to pick it up. But I've said that before...
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
December 28, 2023
With both Emma and Morgan after promotion, will their relationship at home be affected by the different cases they are dealing with at work?
Emma is working on two cases that she is convinced are linked but can she find the evidence to prove this?
Kate is still grieving the loss of her mentor, boss and friend, William. She is now DCI but is still working alone and trying to bring down the syndicate. Not only has she got Superintendent John Dickson’s voice constantly bothering her, but now she has William’s. The one voice she really wants to hear, her late husband Chris’, appears to have disappeared altogether.
I have enjoyed this series and liked seeing the characters improve and strengthen over each book. Emma is a force to be reckoned with and I love her character.
There are some superb twists along the way in this tale. I found myself completely in the dark with regards to the members of the syndicate and was shocked by some of the names that came to light.
The story is well written and kept me on my toes throughout.
A dark and powerful read, I can’t recommend this series enough.
My thanks to Zooloo’s Book Tours, NetGalley and Thomas Mercer for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Emma is working on two cases that she is convinced are linked but can she find the evidence to prove this?
Kate is still grieving the loss of her mentor, boss and friend, William. She is now DCI but is still working alone and trying to bring down the syndicate. Not only has she got Superintendent John Dickson’s voice constantly bothering her, but now she has William’s. The one voice she really wants to hear, her late husband Chris’, appears to have disappeared altogether.
I have enjoyed this series and liked seeing the characters improve and strengthen over each book. Emma is a force to be reckoned with and I love her character.
There are some superb twists along the way in this tale. I found myself completely in the dark with regards to the members of the syndicate and was shocked by some of the names that came to light.
The story is well written and kept me on my toes throughout.
A dark and powerful read, I can’t recommend this series enough.
My thanks to Zooloo’s Book Tours, NetGalley and Thomas Mercer for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 14, 2024
⭐️ 4 ⭐️
A Soul for a Soul is the fifth book in the Detective Kate Young series. I’ve read the whole series and thoroughly enjoyed every single one.
The book can be read as a standalone, but I personally think it reads better for knowing more about Kate, her colleagues, and their backstories.
Carol Wyer is an excellent storyteller and grabs your interest from the off. The story is deftly plotted and nicely paced. For me, the series' strength has always been the characters — their depth of personality, the team’s interaction, witty banter, and friendships.
A Soul for a Soul is a brilliant read. Have we seen the last of Kate Young and her team? I sincerely hope not!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
A Soul for a Soul is the fifth book in the Detective Kate Young series. I’ve read the whole series and thoroughly enjoyed every single one.
The book can be read as a standalone, but I personally think it reads better for knowing more about Kate, her colleagues, and their backstories.
Carol Wyer is an excellent storyteller and grabs your interest from the off. The story is deftly plotted and nicely paced. For me, the series' strength has always been the characters — their depth of personality, the team’s interaction, witty banter, and friendships.
A Soul for a Soul is a brilliant read. Have we seen the last of Kate Young and her team? I sincerely hope not!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
November 2, 2023
I really enjoy most books by this author, but unfortunately, this series has never really resonated with me. Mainly because of the voices in the main character DCI Kate Young’s head, and her tendency to voice them aloud as they converse with each other. There was a large portion of the first series dedicated to this idiosyncrasy, less in the second book, and now it’s back with a vengeance in the third installment. Kate knows she’s doing it, knows she shouldn’t be doing it, yet doesn’t take any steps toward therapy to rid herself of it. So, the reader is stuck reading large sections of her inner dialogue in this format.
It wouldn’t bother me so much if it didn’t feel like filler. You could literally remove all those portions and it wouldn’t hurt the story. And it’s the same back and forth between Dickson, whom she hears because of her guilt from shooting and accidentally killing him, and Chase, her mentor whom she misses greatly. Dickson’s voice insults her and every idea she has while Chase is the voice of reason, urging her to follow her instincts. Every. Single. Time. For every decision she makes, not just when she’s dealing with taking down the corrupt syndicate.
Other parts of the story are more engaging, like the subplot with DI Emma Donaldson. I’ve always found scopolamine fascinating, and I love it when it pops up in a book I’m reading. If the remainder of the story was as interesting, this review would be quite different. But it is a good wrap-up to the series, and you won’t be left with too many unanswered questions. I only hope that the next work by this author features a main character who has a full grip on her sanity!
It wouldn’t bother me so much if it didn’t feel like filler. You could literally remove all those portions and it wouldn’t hurt the story. And it’s the same back and forth between Dickson, whom she hears because of her guilt from shooting and accidentally killing him, and Chase, her mentor whom she misses greatly. Dickson’s voice insults her and every idea she has while Chase is the voice of reason, urging her to follow her instincts. Every. Single. Time. For every decision she makes, not just when she’s dealing with taking down the corrupt syndicate.
Other parts of the story are more engaging, like the subplot with DI Emma Donaldson. I’ve always found scopolamine fascinating, and I love it when it pops up in a book I’m reading. If the remainder of the story was as interesting, this review would be quite different. But it is a good wrap-up to the series, and you won’t be left with too many unanswered questions. I only hope that the next work by this author features a main character who has a full grip on her sanity!
December 31, 2023
I find it more and more difficult to immerse into the world of Kate Young and her hearing voices thingy. I understand she went through a lot of trauma, but the constant paranoia isn't relatable anymore, not much makes sense and it was quite hard to get to the end of this book.
April 28, 2024
4.5 stars
February 12, 2024
This is a review for the whole series. I came back to thriller after a long time with this series. It's a police procedural set in Staffordshire, England. At its onset, DI Kate Young gets called upon to solve a murder case while she is still recovering from a traumatic episode. As it progresses, we get to see Kate and her team handle one case after another, and overall it also focuses on another private investigation being done by Kate.
This series has all the elements of a thriller - I read it during winters and found myself up most of the nights reading under the covers on my kindle. Though I found the starting a bit slow in almost all the books, but they become unputdownable towards the end.
When it comes to presentation though, I liked the first two books better, where the reader is made privy only to the facts available to the police. That way, it seems like we are solving the case with them. In the other books, where the point of view of the criminal also comes along, the mystery is somehow lost. In fact, we already know when the police is going in the wrong direction, and it kind of takes the fun out of it. But still, those books manage to keep the thrill
Also, some of the stuff gets repetitive over time, but I guess that's expected when you read interconnected books all at once.
Overall, it's an enjoyable experience. Recommended to everyone who enjoys thrillers and detective fiction.
This series has all the elements of a thriller - I read it during winters and found myself up most of the nights reading under the covers on my kindle. Though I found the starting a bit slow in almost all the books, but they become unputdownable towards the end.
When it comes to presentation though, I liked the first two books better, where the reader is made privy only to the facts available to the police. That way, it seems like we are solving the case with them. In the other books, where the point of view of the criminal also comes along, the mystery is somehow lost. In fact, we already know when the police is going in the wrong direction, and it kind of takes the fun out of it. But still, those books manage to keep the thrill
Also, some of the stuff gets repetitive over time, but I guess that's expected when you read interconnected books all at once.
Overall, it's an enjoyable experience. Recommended to everyone who enjoys thrillers and detective fiction.
January 29, 2024
A Soul For A Soul is the fifth and final? installment in the Detective Kate Young series, and it proves once again why Carol Wyer is a master at the police procedural genre. Book four ended with a shocking death and a huge cliffhanger that threatened Kate’s freedom, and this one picks right after, with Kate at her breaking point under the weight of all her past actions.
After the murder of her mentor, Kate Young, now promoted to DCI, receives a plea of help from his alleged killer, DI Harriet Khatri, claiming she was framed by the syndicate Kate’s being trying to uncover since her husband’s murder. Reluctantly she agrees to help in the hope of finding answers. Meanwhile DI Emma Donaldson is on the hunt of a killer that incapacitates women with a powerful narcotic. Trying to prove herself to her boss, she’ll catch up the killer’s attention, putting her own life in danger.
Kate’s journey all throughout the series has been full of ups and downs, and the way her mental health has been portrayed has been pretty realistic, going through all the different grief stages. She’s such a complex character. The downward spiral she has gone through in the last couple of installments turned her into a pretty unreliable character. Not only she doubted herself and her own sanity, but it comes a point where the reader doesn’t know either if they can really trust her. It was so interesting seeing her deal with her guilt while trying to do justice at the same time.
The voices in her head contribute to create this climate of distrustfulness, with Dickson and Chase’s voices acting like an angel and a demon sitting on her shoulders but, in my opinion, it all became a bit too much, with several similar scenes that turned out a bit repetitive.
DI Emma Donaldson and DI Morgan Meredith stepped up to the plate this time, gaining a greater prominence in the story, leading their own investigations and coming into their own. Their new roles will also have an impact into their personal relationship, raising some interesting questions about the strain in the couple when their professional roles change.
The case Emma investigates was quite intriguing, although I guessed the culprit right from the start. The way this case runs parallel to Kate’s own search of the officers implicated in the corrupt syndicate, gave the story a nice pace, not allowing for a single dull moment, with plenty of twists and turns.
Kate’s long journey into the dismantling of the syndicate that turned her life upside down seems to have come to an end but… has it? The last line leaves a door open so only time will tell if we’ve seen the last of DCI Kate Young.
After the murder of her mentor, Kate Young, now promoted to DCI, receives a plea of help from his alleged killer, DI Harriet Khatri, claiming she was framed by the syndicate Kate’s being trying to uncover since her husband’s murder. Reluctantly she agrees to help in the hope of finding answers. Meanwhile DI Emma Donaldson is on the hunt of a killer that incapacitates women with a powerful narcotic. Trying to prove herself to her boss, she’ll catch up the killer’s attention, putting her own life in danger.
Kate’s journey all throughout the series has been full of ups and downs, and the way her mental health has been portrayed has been pretty realistic, going through all the different grief stages. She’s such a complex character. The downward spiral she has gone through in the last couple of installments turned her into a pretty unreliable character. Not only she doubted herself and her own sanity, but it comes a point where the reader doesn’t know either if they can really trust her. It was so interesting seeing her deal with her guilt while trying to do justice at the same time.
The voices in her head contribute to create this climate of distrustfulness, with Dickson and Chase’s voices acting like an angel and a demon sitting on her shoulders but, in my opinion, it all became a bit too much, with several similar scenes that turned out a bit repetitive.
DI Emma Donaldson and DI Morgan Meredith stepped up to the plate this time, gaining a greater prominence in the story, leading their own investigations and coming into their own. Their new roles will also have an impact into their personal relationship, raising some interesting questions about the strain in the couple when their professional roles change.
The case Emma investigates was quite intriguing, although I guessed the culprit right from the start. The way this case runs parallel to Kate’s own search of the officers implicated in the corrupt syndicate, gave the story a nice pace, not allowing for a single dull moment, with plenty of twists and turns.
Kate’s long journey into the dismantling of the syndicate that turned her life upside down seems to have come to an end but… has it? The last line leaves a door open so only time will tell if we’ve seen the last of DCI Kate Young.
October 23, 2023
A Soul for a Soul (Detective Kate Young book 5) by Carol Wyer is a very good book and addition to the series.
The story's premise is that DCI Kate Young never meant to shoot Superintendent John Dickson at the reservoir that night. But now Kate has photographic evidence that someone else knows her terrible secret.
Tormented by guilt and the voices of the dead, Kate is desperate to unmask the rest of the corrupt officers before her own sins catch up with her. When DI Harriet Khatri, awaiting trial for the murder of Kate's mentor, claims she was framed by Dickson's syndicate, Kate reluctantly agrees to help find answers.
Meanwhile, DI Emma Donaldson finds herself hunting for a double murderer.
First, I really like Kate and that she is determined, demands justice at any price, and is driven. She's a bit of a loner and doesn't have many friends. Emma is a great character, and I would love to see more of her in future books or even a spinoff to her own series. I liked her determination and how she thought about her cases. At first, I was pretty skeptical about her boyfriend, fellow detective Morgan, but it made sense once information was unraveled throughout the storyline.
I love the line in the book about "curtain twitchers," those lookie-loos that watch a crime scene from their home.
I enjoyed A Soul for a Soul and this author's writing style; it was crips and not too much detail to bog down the story. The only negative was Kate second-guessing herself or continually talking about who she could trust and where she would find the sheet of information William left. That got to be a bit too much.
The person who turned out to be the culprit was not even on my radar. Now, I have to wait for the next book, as the story left a bit of a cliffhanger. I am looking forward to seeing what will happen with Kate and the rest of the team.
I would recommend this book, this series, and this author.
#ASoulforaSoul #NetGalley @AmazonPub
The story's premise is that DCI Kate Young never meant to shoot Superintendent John Dickson at the reservoir that night. But now Kate has photographic evidence that someone else knows her terrible secret.
Tormented by guilt and the voices of the dead, Kate is desperate to unmask the rest of the corrupt officers before her own sins catch up with her. When DI Harriet Khatri, awaiting trial for the murder of Kate's mentor, claims she was framed by Dickson's syndicate, Kate reluctantly agrees to help find answers.
Meanwhile, DI Emma Donaldson finds herself hunting for a double murderer.
First, I really like Kate and that she is determined, demands justice at any price, and is driven. She's a bit of a loner and doesn't have many friends. Emma is a great character, and I would love to see more of her in future books or even a spinoff to her own series. I liked her determination and how she thought about her cases. At first, I was pretty skeptical about her boyfriend, fellow detective Morgan, but it made sense once information was unraveled throughout the storyline.
I love the line in the book about "curtain twitchers," those lookie-loos that watch a crime scene from their home.
I enjoyed A Soul for a Soul and this author's writing style; it was crips and not too much detail to bog down the story. The only negative was Kate second-guessing herself or continually talking about who she could trust and where she would find the sheet of information William left. That got to be a bit too much.
The person who turned out to be the culprit was not even on my radar. Now, I have to wait for the next book, as the story left a bit of a cliffhanger. I am looking forward to seeing what will happen with Kate and the rest of the team.
I would recommend this book, this series, and this author.
#ASoulforaSoul #NetGalley @AmazonPub
January 21, 2024
Another brilliant crime thriller from Carol Wyer.
I couldn’t wait to read this book to find out what happened next to Kate after the photos were left on her desk.
We start the book with Kate being promoted and Emma taking over her old role. Kate still wants to be involved so joins Emma when a dead woman’s body is found at a building site.
Kate lets Emma lead on the case as she’s tied up trying to find the identities of those in the syndicate and comes across a few surprises.
This is a great read and I’d highly recommend this series.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this book.
I couldn’t wait to read this book to find out what happened next to Kate after the photos were left on her desk.
We start the book with Kate being promoted and Emma taking over her old role. Kate still wants to be involved so joins Emma when a dead woman’s body is found at a building site.
Kate lets Emma lead on the case as she’s tied up trying to find the identities of those in the syndicate and comes across a few surprises.
This is a great read and I’d highly recommend this series.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this book.
December 31, 2023
Okay. Before we begin, I will just clear one thing up. There is often a debate about series books and whether you need to start from the beginning. For this series, absolutely. The previous two books at the very least as there is a wapping great spoiler for them at the very heart of this book (and in the blurb to be fair) and as this book kind of brings an end, more or less, to the series story arc, even I - the great shirker of tradition and series etiquette - say start from book one. You'll appreciate the whole story more if you do. Right. That's the housekeeping done with.
Well, what a book. Carol Wyer has pulled another blinder with A Soul for a Soul, keeping the team, and readers, on their toes with a very complex case, and Kate Young more than a touch distracted in her quest to find the sender of a mystery message before it derails her career and her freedom. The murder investigation actually allows acting Emma Donaldson a chance to take centre stage in her first real case as Acting DI. The body of a woman is found buried in at new building site, someone who was reported missing just three weeks earlier. There are some very obvious suspects in the case, her husband for one, but, as always, we, the reader, know better. Maybe.
What I like about this series is the way that the author intersperses the main investigation with scenes from the perpetrators point of view. In this case it is some who has a very personal connection to one of the team, and a total lack of remorse for what they have done. We do get some insight into their personality, although their identity is kept very carefully hidden until near the end of the book. Knowing that we are watching them, watching their future victims adds a real chill to the narrative and increases the jeopardy that is felt as their make their approach. We may not always get the opportunity to know the victims in this case, with one notable exception, but there is something so very clinical about the act that it makes its mark regardless.
I do really like Kate Young as a character. She is more than a little broken - I'm being nice here - and the events of the past four books really do take their toll this time around. She is a woman under pressure which manifests itself in rather worrying ways, but Carol Wyer has managed to make this part of her character so natural, so part of her identity, that her slip into melancholy and nostalgia are seamless. In fact, there is a lot of transition between present day and the memories of a number of characters, sometimes used to fill in gaps in our knowledge, sometimes to mislead, but the transition between the scenes works well and movers the story onward. As for the sider team, it is great to see Emma in a starring role as she is a very capable and positive character. I liked her pairing with her new DS, Scott Hart, and they really worked well as a team. it's not easy seeing a new work dynamic part way through a series but this pairing works well, a testament to the authors skill that I was so quickly invested in this new partnership.
Her partner in life, and former partner in crime fighting, Morgan, is one a team trying to crack a trafficking ring and this does lead to some friction between the pair. It was interesting to see how the author played this, especially with how much was at stake for them for differing reasons. Jamie Webster is still on the scene as well, working along side Morgan on Operation Moonbeam. This is a less harmonious pairing, but reflective of the ongoing tension and division at the heart of the series.
The book is split between the murder investigation and Kate's ongoing quest to end the corruption within the Force. That comes to a head in this book, exposing the final secrets and with some shocking revelations to boot. What that means for the future, especially for Kate given everything she has done to find the truth, remains to be seen. With the final quarter of the book a mixture of tension, apprehension and surprises, it fairly powers along to a finale which is not quite as cut and dried as you might expect. I'm not sure what comes next, but A Soul For A Soul is another cracker of a read that brings closure to certain elements of the story arc, whilst leaving questions in others. Prepare to be kept on edge, prepare to be shocked. Most of all, prepare to be thoroughly entertained. Definitely recommended for fans of the series.
Well, what a book. Carol Wyer has pulled another blinder with A Soul for a Soul, keeping the team, and readers, on their toes with a very complex case, and Kate Young more than a touch distracted in her quest to find the sender of a mystery message before it derails her career and her freedom. The murder investigation actually allows acting Emma Donaldson a chance to take centre stage in her first real case as Acting DI. The body of a woman is found buried in at new building site, someone who was reported missing just three weeks earlier. There are some very obvious suspects in the case, her husband for one, but, as always, we, the reader, know better. Maybe.
What I like about this series is the way that the author intersperses the main investigation with scenes from the perpetrators point of view. In this case it is some who has a very personal connection to one of the team, and a total lack of remorse for what they have done. We do get some insight into their personality, although their identity is kept very carefully hidden until near the end of the book. Knowing that we are watching them, watching their future victims adds a real chill to the narrative and increases the jeopardy that is felt as their make their approach. We may not always get the opportunity to know the victims in this case, with one notable exception, but there is something so very clinical about the act that it makes its mark regardless.
I do really like Kate Young as a character. She is more than a little broken - I'm being nice here - and the events of the past four books really do take their toll this time around. She is a woman under pressure which manifests itself in rather worrying ways, but Carol Wyer has managed to make this part of her character so natural, so part of her identity, that her slip into melancholy and nostalgia are seamless. In fact, there is a lot of transition between present day and the memories of a number of characters, sometimes used to fill in gaps in our knowledge, sometimes to mislead, but the transition between the scenes works well and movers the story onward. As for the sider team, it is great to see Emma in a starring role as she is a very capable and positive character. I liked her pairing with her new DS, Scott Hart, and they really worked well as a team. it's not easy seeing a new work dynamic part way through a series but this pairing works well, a testament to the authors skill that I was so quickly invested in this new partnership.
Her partner in life, and former partner in crime fighting, Morgan, is one a team trying to crack a trafficking ring and this does lead to some friction between the pair. It was interesting to see how the author played this, especially with how much was at stake for them for differing reasons. Jamie Webster is still on the scene as well, working along side Morgan on Operation Moonbeam. This is a less harmonious pairing, but reflective of the ongoing tension and division at the heart of the series.
The book is split between the murder investigation and Kate's ongoing quest to end the corruption within the Force. That comes to a head in this book, exposing the final secrets and with some shocking revelations to boot. What that means for the future, especially for Kate given everything she has done to find the truth, remains to be seen. With the final quarter of the book a mixture of tension, apprehension and surprises, it fairly powers along to a finale which is not quite as cut and dried as you might expect. I'm not sure what comes next, but A Soul For A Soul is another cracker of a read that brings closure to certain elements of the story arc, whilst leaving questions in others. Prepare to be kept on edge, prepare to be shocked. Most of all, prepare to be thoroughly entertained. Definitely recommended for fans of the series.
January 30, 2024
Having read the other books in this series I was super excited to read this book and I was not disappointed! The way Carol Wyer spins the narrative for Kate is absolute genius. I also loved the inclusion of more of Emma. You really need to read the others before this one to see how this story has built up but I enjoyed the separate parts of this plot too. Without spoilers, I will say I also found the ending fascinating. Another fantastic write Carol!
November 18, 2023
This is book #5 in the Kate Young series. Whilst it can be read as a standalone book, I would recommend reading the books in series order for better understanding of the story. I've been following the series from the beginning and was left wondering through the last book how Kate was going to cope with what had happened. We are back with her and it seems that someone knows her terrible secret. Can she work out who else is involved in the police corruption which has dominated her life for so long?
This was such a gripping read. Kate's secret is massive and could ruin her, but can she really get away with what she has done? I like Kate's character but have felt so sorry for her throughout this series of books. She really is one of the good guys trying to bring down the corrupt police officers which had a hand in her husband's death, but finds herself being dragged down with them. I have to admit to reading this and the last couple of books with baited breath, wondering what was going to happen. The book flows along at a great pace, and we again see the state of Kate's mental health with her hearing not only her dead husband, but her former bosses Dickson and Chase. I'd like to think that Kate will one day be free from the torment of these voices, but we go into the book with them talking to her loud and clear.
I did like the parallel storylines of the murder investigation and people trafficking with DI Emma Donaldson and DI Morgan Meredith taking the lead. All the storylines worked well together and my interest in all the cases was held throughout. The book is full of suspense and tension as to what is going to happen, and there are plenty of twists, turns and dead ends to keep you wondering. Whilst it sounds like a lot is going on, it's well written and easy to keep a track of everything. I was held into the action of all the storylines right to the last page. Could Kate be lucky enough to have some peace in her mind in the next book? Let's hope so for her sake! Would definitely recommend!
This was such a gripping read. Kate's secret is massive and could ruin her, but can she really get away with what she has done? I like Kate's character but have felt so sorry for her throughout this series of books. She really is one of the good guys trying to bring down the corrupt police officers which had a hand in her husband's death, but finds herself being dragged down with them. I have to admit to reading this and the last couple of books with baited breath, wondering what was going to happen. The book flows along at a great pace, and we again see the state of Kate's mental health with her hearing not only her dead husband, but her former bosses Dickson and Chase. I'd like to think that Kate will one day be free from the torment of these voices, but we go into the book with them talking to her loud and clear.
I did like the parallel storylines of the murder investigation and people trafficking with DI Emma Donaldson and DI Morgan Meredith taking the lead. All the storylines worked well together and my interest in all the cases was held throughout. The book is full of suspense and tension as to what is going to happen, and there are plenty of twists, turns and dead ends to keep you wondering. Whilst it sounds like a lot is going on, it's well written and easy to keep a track of everything. I was held into the action of all the storylines right to the last page. Could Kate be lucky enough to have some peace in her mind in the next book? Let's hope so for her sake! Would definitely recommend!
January 11, 2024
A Soul for a Soul by Carol Wyer, purportedly the final instalment in the series, attempts to tie up the elusive syndicate storyline that has lingered throughout the preceding books. While there are moments of intrigue and resolution, the overall execution left me somewhat unsatisfied.
The narrative predominantly revolves around Kate's relentless pursuit of answers, notably regarding the mysterious figure, Digger, and a search of Williams's house. Unfortunately, the plot seemed to meander in repetitive circles, with Kate engaging in similar actions without significant progress. This repetitive structure created a sense of frustration, making the reading experience less engaging than anticipated.
A noteworthy subplot involves Emma's investigation, which held promise but concluded with a rather underwhelming outcome—a damp squib, to be precise. The lacklustre resolution to this side story contributed to my disappointment with the overall narrative.
The conclusion to the syndicate storyline, which I had eagerly anticipated, also failed to deliver the anticipated impact. Instead of going out all guns blazing, the ending felt subdued and left me yearning for a more dynamic and compelling resolution.
As the supposed final chapter in Kate's journey, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief upon finishing the book. The lingering question now is whether Kate has genuinely fulfilled her purpose and whether there is anything more she could bring to the table in future instalments. I hope that, if there are to be further developments, a fresh perspective and renewed vigour be brought to the series.
The narrative predominantly revolves around Kate's relentless pursuit of answers, notably regarding the mysterious figure, Digger, and a search of Williams's house. Unfortunately, the plot seemed to meander in repetitive circles, with Kate engaging in similar actions without significant progress. This repetitive structure created a sense of frustration, making the reading experience less engaging than anticipated.
A noteworthy subplot involves Emma's investigation, which held promise but concluded with a rather underwhelming outcome—a damp squib, to be precise. The lacklustre resolution to this side story contributed to my disappointment with the overall narrative.
The conclusion to the syndicate storyline, which I had eagerly anticipated, also failed to deliver the anticipated impact. Instead of going out all guns blazing, the ending felt subdued and left me yearning for a more dynamic and compelling resolution.
As the supposed final chapter in Kate's journey, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief upon finishing the book. The lingering question now is whether Kate has genuinely fulfilled her purpose and whether there is anything more she could bring to the table in future instalments. I hope that, if there are to be further developments, a fresh perspective and renewed vigour be brought to the series.
February 8, 2024
“A Soul for a Soul” is book five in Carol Wyer’s Detective Kate Young series, set in Staffordshire and sees Kate promoted to DCI William Chase’s now vacant position and DS Emma Donaldson as acting DI. It was nice to see Kate taking over from her beloved colleague William and Emma in her new role adapting to the responsibilities of investigating a double murder. This also sees Emma facing changes in her personal relationship with fellow officer Morgan.
I enjoyed the intermittent chapters from the killer’s viewpoint and this added a tense, engaging element that comes from a warped serial killer’s mind.
Kate is an interesting character who hears voices in her head from deceased people and often plays out those conversations, in their voices, out loud when alone. This made the book very unique, as William and Superintendent Dickson haunted her thoughts with very conflicting advice as she went about her unorthodox policing. Her whispering monologues kept the ‘syndicate’ plot line moving and although I personally felt it was a bit too overwhelming it worked for the story to progress.
Although the reader is brought up to date within the first couple of chapters as to the previous events that this book continues with, I do feel there would be more enjoyment from reading the series, even if only the previous book “A Truth for a Truth”, to get a true connection with Kate’s mindset and the power the ‘syndicate’ wields. Perfect for crime readers who like something different from their thrillers and I look forward in the future to following up on the cliff hanger we were left with at the end of this book.
#ASoulForASoul - 3.5 stars
I enjoyed the intermittent chapters from the killer’s viewpoint and this added a tense, engaging element that comes from a warped serial killer’s mind.
Kate is an interesting character who hears voices in her head from deceased people and often plays out those conversations, in their voices, out loud when alone. This made the book very unique, as William and Superintendent Dickson haunted her thoughts with very conflicting advice as she went about her unorthodox policing. Her whispering monologues kept the ‘syndicate’ plot line moving and although I personally felt it was a bit too overwhelming it worked for the story to progress.
Although the reader is brought up to date within the first couple of chapters as to the previous events that this book continues with, I do feel there would be more enjoyment from reading the series, even if only the previous book “A Truth for a Truth”, to get a true connection with Kate’s mindset and the power the ‘syndicate’ wields. Perfect for crime readers who like something different from their thrillers and I look forward in the future to following up on the cliff hanger we were left with at the end of this book.
#ASoulForASoul - 3.5 stars
February 16, 2024
Thank you @carolwyer @zooloosbooktours for sending me a copy of A Soul for a Soul in exchange for an honest review!
DCI Kate Young is back baby! I have been involved with every tour for this book series and I can’t believe we have just finished the final book of the series😢 But boy did we go out with a bang!
The story of the corruption within the police force continued in this book as Kate tried to uncover the secret document left behind by her mentor that will reveal the names of all of the officers involved in the syndicate. For me, I found this storyline a little boring for the first half of the book. Kate spends a lot of time looking around the house without actually uncovering anything and it did begin to get repetitive, but once she uncovered the document the story moved a lot quicker and I loved the twists and turns!
My favourite part of this story was seeing more of Emma after her promotion to DI. She is on the hunt for a murderer and the descriptions of their police work gave me major Line of Duty vibes! I say this every time, but Carol Wyer really knows her stuff when it comes to detective novels🚓
This was a great way to end the series and I’ve loved joining Kate on her journey to weed out the corruption in the police force. Now we just need an Emma and Morgan spin-off😉
DCI Kate Young is back baby! I have been involved with every tour for this book series and I can’t believe we have just finished the final book of the series😢 But boy did we go out with a bang!
The story of the corruption within the police force continued in this book as Kate tried to uncover the secret document left behind by her mentor that will reveal the names of all of the officers involved in the syndicate. For me, I found this storyline a little boring for the first half of the book. Kate spends a lot of time looking around the house without actually uncovering anything and it did begin to get repetitive, but once she uncovered the document the story moved a lot quicker and I loved the twists and turns!
My favourite part of this story was seeing more of Emma after her promotion to DI. She is on the hunt for a murderer and the descriptions of their police work gave me major Line of Duty vibes! I say this every time, but Carol Wyer really knows her stuff when it comes to detective novels🚓
This was a great way to end the series and I’ve loved joining Kate on her journey to weed out the corruption in the police force. Now we just need an Emma and Morgan spin-off😉
September 12, 2024
3.5/5
This is book 5 out of the series for DCI Kate Young.
I think this is the weakest in the series, not because of the mystery, tho. The mystery part is very interesting and full of suspense!
Since the beginning the author has used a voice in Kate’s head as the secondary point of view. In the first book, we didn’t know who that voice was until 3/4 of the way in…prompting a BIG twist.
This secondary point of view has become a hallmark of this series. In this book, she has two voices she can hear, and it becomes very distracting and annoying, to me. And, repetitious.
The book also veers away from Kate to a member of her team, Emma. Emma, has always been a strong team member and now I wonder if that’s where another series is going to start?
This is book 5 out of the series for DCI Kate Young.
I think this is the weakest in the series, not because of the mystery, tho. The mystery part is very interesting and full of suspense!
Since the beginning the author has used a voice in Kate’s head as the secondary point of view. In the first book, we didn’t know who that voice was until 3/4 of the way in…prompting a BIG twist.
This secondary point of view has become a hallmark of this series. In this book, she has two voices she can hear, and it becomes very distracting and annoying, to me. And, repetitious.
The book also veers away from Kate to a member of her team, Emma. Emma, has always been a strong team member and now I wonder if that’s where another series is going to start?
October 19, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the eARC.
DCI Kate Young is still trying to root out the leftover members of the corrupt syndicate, led by her old nemesis Superintendent Dickson, who's dead at her hand. Unfortunately I found the constant voices in Kate's head and the back and forth conversations she had with them annoying, enough already...
As a result I rushed through the read to the end and will not read the next in the series if there is one.
DCI Kate Young is still trying to root out the leftover members of the corrupt syndicate, led by her old nemesis Superintendent Dickson, who's dead at her hand. Unfortunately I found the constant voices in Kate's head and the back and forth conversations she had with them annoying, enough already...
As a result I rushed through the read to the end and will not read the next in the series if there is one.
January 30, 2024
The fourth book in the Detective Kate Young series ended with a dramatic cliffhanger which saw Kate’s freedom hanging in the balance, and book five picks up right where it left off. Her confrontation with Superintendent John Dickson didn’t go as planned and she is now left trying to keep her part in his death a secret while also trying to track down the person who witnessed it. Unable to turn to her mentor, William, after he was also killed, Kate feels more alone than ever, is struggling with her guilt, and tormented by the voices of the dead. But she is determined to finally expose the corrupt syndicate once and for all. Meanwhile, DI Emma Donaldson is on the hunt for a killer. Two women have been incapacitated and killed by the powerful drug Devil’s Breath and Emma must find their killer before they strike again.
This book was one wild ride! Showcasing Carol Wyer’s masterful storytelling, cunning plotting, surprising twists, and compelling characters, the parallel storylines don’t give us a moment to catch our breath. There’s a pervading sense of mistrust and unease and like the characters I had no idea who was friend and who was foe, leaving me suspicious of everyone, while the familiarity and connection that comes with reading a series helped raise the tension as I tried to predict if a much-loved character really was part of the corrupt syndicate. The murder investigation did feel secondary to the corruption investigation at times but that didn’t make it any less intricate or fascinating. In fact, this is one of my favourite methods of murder Carol has written yet. Then there’s the chapters written from the killer’s perspective. These were chilling, sending shivers down my spine as he hunted his victims. And as he puts a member of the team in his crosshairs the stakes get higher, keeping me on the edge of my seat until the dramatic finale.
Kate Young is a brilliant character and I have enjoyed seeing her mental health struggle portrayed in such a realistic way. Her grief has also been authentic and we’ve seen her go through the various stages that come with losing someone we love. She’s been through more in a few years than some experience in a lifetime, so her PTSD and mental health issues are to be expected. Though I will admit to being surprised and torn as she shifted to being the kind of person she’s always despised in the last book and her battle between those two sides of herself is fascinating to read. In this book she continues to unravel as the guilt eats at her and her grip on reality becomes increasingly tenuous as the voices of the dead refuse to leave her in peace. What was once the comforting voice of her late husband has now become an angel and demon on her shoulders that leave her torn between covering her tracks and delivering the justice she still believes in.
While I found it strange at first that Kate’s promotion means she’s not as involved in the investigations, I did come to appreciate that this allowed other characters the chance to shine. DI Emma Donaldson and her boyfriend, DI Morgan Meredith feature more prominently in this instalment and I really enjoyed seeing more of them. The couple have recently moved in together and both been promoted, with Emma leading the double murder investigation. Their relationship is impacted by these changes and they face a number of personal and professional challenges and dilemmas over the course of the book that felt relatable and real.
Gritty, sinister, and suspenseful, A Soul For A Soul is an adrenaline-filled thriller that I highly recommend.
This book was one wild ride! Showcasing Carol Wyer’s masterful storytelling, cunning plotting, surprising twists, and compelling characters, the parallel storylines don’t give us a moment to catch our breath. There’s a pervading sense of mistrust and unease and like the characters I had no idea who was friend and who was foe, leaving me suspicious of everyone, while the familiarity and connection that comes with reading a series helped raise the tension as I tried to predict if a much-loved character really was part of the corrupt syndicate. The murder investigation did feel secondary to the corruption investigation at times but that didn’t make it any less intricate or fascinating. In fact, this is one of my favourite methods of murder Carol has written yet. Then there’s the chapters written from the killer’s perspective. These were chilling, sending shivers down my spine as he hunted his victims. And as he puts a member of the team in his crosshairs the stakes get higher, keeping me on the edge of my seat until the dramatic finale.
Kate Young is a brilliant character and I have enjoyed seeing her mental health struggle portrayed in such a realistic way. Her grief has also been authentic and we’ve seen her go through the various stages that come with losing someone we love. She’s been through more in a few years than some experience in a lifetime, so her PTSD and mental health issues are to be expected. Though I will admit to being surprised and torn as she shifted to being the kind of person she’s always despised in the last book and her battle between those two sides of herself is fascinating to read. In this book she continues to unravel as the guilt eats at her and her grip on reality becomes increasingly tenuous as the voices of the dead refuse to leave her in peace. What was once the comforting voice of her late husband has now become an angel and demon on her shoulders that leave her torn between covering her tracks and delivering the justice she still believes in.
While I found it strange at first that Kate’s promotion means she’s not as involved in the investigations, I did come to appreciate that this allowed other characters the chance to shine. DI Emma Donaldson and her boyfriend, DI Morgan Meredith feature more prominently in this instalment and I really enjoyed seeing more of them. The couple have recently moved in together and both been promoted, with Emma leading the double murder investigation. Their relationship is impacted by these changes and they face a number of personal and professional challenges and dilemmas over the course of the book that felt relatable and real.
Gritty, sinister, and suspenseful, A Soul For A Soul is an adrenaline-filled thriller that I highly recommend.
January 24, 2024
Where to even begin?
I have followed this series from the start so I'm familiar with Kate's flaws and foibles. Does she get on my nerves? A little. Especially with the constant monologuing with the dead William and Dickson. Chris' dialogue was enough but now we have her mentor and her nemesis to battle it out in her head!
OK, so if you haven't read any of the previous books, don't start this one until you have done so as the culmination of events and everything that went beforehand will make absolutely no sense. Some series you can pick up here and there and read without missing out on anything else. But this series is not one of them. In fact, the entire series hinges on Kate's relentless investigating into a corrupt syndicate involved in sex trafficking, drugs and murder - and that of the murder of her husband Chris. A syndicate compromised of corrupt police officers, some of whom were at senior level. It's like a series of "Line of Duty"...lol
Since the previous book, Kate has been promoted to DCI and taking the place of her mentor and friend William Chase who was brutally murdered by one of the syndicate, DI Harriet Khatri. Harriet, however, is protesting her innocence loudly though no one is listening. Least of all Kate who was not her biggest fan in the first place. But Harriet calls on Kate with a special request...but how will Kate react?
Since Kate's promotion, it has left room for her previous position as DI open as well as Harriet's also, since she now sits under house arrest with strict bail conditions awaiting trial for William's murder. And so Kate handpicks her two DS's, Emma and Morgan, to step into the Acting DI role until they can take their Inspector's exams.
Emma's first big case comes along investigating a killer who maims his victims with a psychoactive drug, leaving no trace in their systems. Or so he thought. It seems he is cockier than he is clever. But will he outsmart Emma before she can uncover the truth?
Meanwhile, Morgan has been tasked to Operation Moonbeam who are investigating the people trafficking and with a mole in their midst, Morgan is feeling frustrated with the slow progress, despite months of work. And it's affecting his home life with Emma.
On top of it all, Kate must maintain a professional integrity in overseeing her teams but she misses being in the thick of the investigation. But under the mantle of DCI she is also able to continue looking further into the syndicate and its remaining members, and attempt to bring it all down once and for all.
Then just when you think that's the end of it...Wyer delivers those final lines. Is this the end? Or is it not?
I admit to having further suspicions but in hindsight, I'd like this to be the end for Kate. To sit back and relax and just let it all go. To remain and continue digging would just be tempting fate.
The twists are delivered with fervour in this story but alas, I could not be hoodwinked. I correctly figured two out of three. That last one had me surprised. But the identity of the killer nor the first of the remaining syndicate members revealed were not. Sorry (not sorry!).
This series is so different from Carol Wyer's others and I could see how it could be so all-encompassing, when she locks herself away in her office for hours on end leaving Mr Grumpy to fend for himself. I think I'd be exhausted with navigating all this!
Overall, an entertaining taut crime thriller that will have you turning the pages until the very end, and then leaving you scratching your head.
I would like to thank #CarolWyer, #Netgalley and #AmazonPub for an ARC of #ASoulForASoul in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I have followed this series from the start so I'm familiar with Kate's flaws and foibles. Does she get on my nerves? A little. Especially with the constant monologuing with the dead William and Dickson. Chris' dialogue was enough but now we have her mentor and her nemesis to battle it out in her head!
OK, so if you haven't read any of the previous books, don't start this one until you have done so as the culmination of events and everything that went beforehand will make absolutely no sense. Some series you can pick up here and there and read without missing out on anything else. But this series is not one of them. In fact, the entire series hinges on Kate's relentless investigating into a corrupt syndicate involved in sex trafficking, drugs and murder - and that of the murder of her husband Chris. A syndicate compromised of corrupt police officers, some of whom were at senior level. It's like a series of "Line of Duty"...lol
Since the previous book, Kate has been promoted to DCI and taking the place of her mentor and friend William Chase who was brutally murdered by one of the syndicate, DI Harriet Khatri. Harriet, however, is protesting her innocence loudly though no one is listening. Least of all Kate who was not her biggest fan in the first place. But Harriet calls on Kate with a special request...but how will Kate react?
Since Kate's promotion, it has left room for her previous position as DI open as well as Harriet's also, since she now sits under house arrest with strict bail conditions awaiting trial for William's murder. And so Kate handpicks her two DS's, Emma and Morgan, to step into the Acting DI role until they can take their Inspector's exams.
Emma's first big case comes along investigating a killer who maims his victims with a psychoactive drug, leaving no trace in their systems. Or so he thought. It seems he is cockier than he is clever. But will he outsmart Emma before she can uncover the truth?
Meanwhile, Morgan has been tasked to Operation Moonbeam who are investigating the people trafficking and with a mole in their midst, Morgan is feeling frustrated with the slow progress, despite months of work. And it's affecting his home life with Emma.
On top of it all, Kate must maintain a professional integrity in overseeing her teams but she misses being in the thick of the investigation. But under the mantle of DCI she is also able to continue looking further into the syndicate and its remaining members, and attempt to bring it all down once and for all.
Then just when you think that's the end of it...Wyer delivers those final lines. Is this the end? Or is it not?
I admit to having further suspicions but in hindsight, I'd like this to be the end for Kate. To sit back and relax and just let it all go. To remain and continue digging would just be tempting fate.
The twists are delivered with fervour in this story but alas, I could not be hoodwinked. I correctly figured two out of three. That last one had me surprised. But the identity of the killer nor the first of the remaining syndicate members revealed were not. Sorry (not sorry!).
This series is so different from Carol Wyer's others and I could see how it could be so all-encompassing, when she locks herself away in her office for hours on end leaving Mr Grumpy to fend for himself. I think I'd be exhausted with navigating all this!
Overall, an entertaining taut crime thriller that will have you turning the pages until the very end, and then leaving you scratching your head.
I would like to thank #CarolWyer, #Netgalley and #AmazonPub for an ARC of #ASoulForASoul in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
November 21, 2023
I've just read "A Soul for a Soul" by Carol Wyer, and it's been a gripping rollercoaster of a thriller. Detective Kate Young's character is brilliantly portrayed, haunted by a traumatic past and driven by her relentless pursuit of corrupt officers. The guilt and fear she carries add depth to the story, making her a truly relatable protagonist.
The parallel storylines involving Kate and DI Emma Donaldson are skillfully interwoven, keeping me engaged and guessing throughout. I particularly enjoyed following Emma as she tackles a chilling murder investigation, and her partnership with DI Morgan Meredith adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.
Wyer's storytelling is filled with unexpected twists and moments of palpable tension. While I did anticipate one twist, another completely took me by surprise. The pacing is spot-on, with a good balance of action, danger, and suspense. The ending leaves you hanging on the edge, eager to know what happens next.
Overall, "A Soul for a Soul" is an immersive read, and I can't wait to see where the next installment takes us.
Carol Wyer has masterfully crafted a story that keeps you wondering and speculating until the very last page. Another fantastic addition to the Detective Kate Young series.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy through NetGalley, opinions are my own.
4.5 stars
The parallel storylines involving Kate and DI Emma Donaldson are skillfully interwoven, keeping me engaged and guessing throughout. I particularly enjoyed following Emma as she tackles a chilling murder investigation, and her partnership with DI Morgan Meredith adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.
Wyer's storytelling is filled with unexpected twists and moments of palpable tension. While I did anticipate one twist, another completely took me by surprise. The pacing is spot-on, with a good balance of action, danger, and suspense. The ending leaves you hanging on the edge, eager to know what happens next.
Overall, "A Soul for a Soul" is an immersive read, and I can't wait to see where the next installment takes us.
Carol Wyer has masterfully crafted a story that keeps you wondering and speculating until the very last page. Another fantastic addition to the Detective Kate Young series.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy through NetGalley, opinions are my own.
4.5 stars
January 24, 2024
A Soul for a Soul is the 5th book in the Detective Kate Young crime fiction series from Carol Wyer.
"DCI Kate Young is still reeling from her involvement with the death of Superintendent Dickson. Now she's hearing Dickson's voice and William's voice as she tries to bring down the Syndicate. And after a body was found buried at a new housing development, she's got her DC's trying to find the killer. Can she balance it all without losing her mind?"
Wyer finally gives us some final answers (sort of) after five books. Kate is still unsure of who she can trust. And Wyer keeps it ambiguous do the reader doesn't know either. There is a final reckoning with the Syndicate so we find out some of the missing identities.
I like that Kate is not really involved in the case that her DC is working on. It works as a parallel story. DC Emma Donaldson is driven to be as meticulous as Kate had been. And is constantly trying to find balance in her time spent solving the case and her partner at home. Lots of tension there.
Wyer keeps you guessing all the way to the end and beyond. It'll be interesting to see what she has in mind for Future Kate. More good crime fiction from Wyer.
"DCI Kate Young is still reeling from her involvement with the death of Superintendent Dickson. Now she's hearing Dickson's voice and William's voice as she tries to bring down the Syndicate. And after a body was found buried at a new housing development, she's got her DC's trying to find the killer. Can she balance it all without losing her mind?"
Wyer finally gives us some final answers (sort of) after five books. Kate is still unsure of who she can trust. And Wyer keeps it ambiguous do the reader doesn't know either. There is a final reckoning with the Syndicate so we find out some of the missing identities.
I like that Kate is not really involved in the case that her DC is working on. It works as a parallel story. DC Emma Donaldson is driven to be as meticulous as Kate had been. And is constantly trying to find balance in her time spent solving the case and her partner at home. Lots of tension there.
Wyer keeps you guessing all the way to the end and beyond. It'll be interesting to see what she has in mind for Future Kate. More good crime fiction from Wyer.
February 1, 2024
‘A Soul for a Soul’ is the fifth thrilling instalment in this fabulous series! It no secret that I love this series and I have reviewed each one and waxed lyrical about them and this is going to be no different. Normally with a series I would say you could read books as a stand-alone but with this one I don’t think you could. There is a lot of intricate plotting and background information in the previous books which means you enjoy this one so much more. You get to really understand Kate as a character by seeing how her character and mental health struggles progresses and develops. Therefore I recommend reading the whole series if you really want the best from it!
Kate is having to deal with the repercussions of her shooting Superintendent John Dickson and the death of her beloved mentor and godfather William. Plus, she is still trying to take down the rest of the members of the syndicate, as well as dealing with her promotion to DCI. Meanwhile, Emma and Morgan have been promoted to DI and are now on different teams. Emma is dealing with a murder and Morgan is still trying to track down the gang behind the trafficking. All three are trying to cope with their new roles and how it affects their personal relationships.
Carol is really good at making her readers question everyone and everything! You never know who to trust and who is the baddie, just like Kate doesn’t either. I like being kept on my toes as a reader. This was a great plot with lots of reveals, twists and turns and you really were kept guessing. The murder mystery does takes a back footing to the syndicate plot which is a shame as I thought the method of killing was highly unique and unusual. I did like that it allowed Emma to shine more as a detective and I enjoyed learning more about her personal life.
What I do find remarkable is how much empathy has been poured into Kate’s character. Yes she can make questionable decisions at times and has even become someone she doesn’t particularly like you always root for her. This is partly down to how Carol has portrayed Kate’s grief and her mental health struggles. Ever since the first book Kate has been dealing with an inner conversation with her late husband as a form of coping but this has now warped into dealing with Dickson and William being in her head in a ‘devil and angel situation’. It makes you care for Kate as a person and since most readers have experienced grief and trauma it makes her very relatable and authentic.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Kate is having to deal with the repercussions of her shooting Superintendent John Dickson and the death of her beloved mentor and godfather William. Plus, she is still trying to take down the rest of the members of the syndicate, as well as dealing with her promotion to DCI. Meanwhile, Emma and Morgan have been promoted to DI and are now on different teams. Emma is dealing with a murder and Morgan is still trying to track down the gang behind the trafficking. All three are trying to cope with their new roles and how it affects their personal relationships.
Carol is really good at making her readers question everyone and everything! You never know who to trust and who is the baddie, just like Kate doesn’t either. I like being kept on my toes as a reader. This was a great plot with lots of reveals, twists and turns and you really were kept guessing. The murder mystery does takes a back footing to the syndicate plot which is a shame as I thought the method of killing was highly unique and unusual. I did like that it allowed Emma to shine more as a detective and I enjoyed learning more about her personal life.
What I do find remarkable is how much empathy has been poured into Kate’s character. Yes she can make questionable decisions at times and has even become someone she doesn’t particularly like you always root for her. This is partly down to how Carol has portrayed Kate’s grief and her mental health struggles. Ever since the first book Kate has been dealing with an inner conversation with her late husband as a form of coping but this has now warped into dealing with Dickson and William being in her head in a ‘devil and angel situation’. It makes you care for Kate as a person and since most readers have experienced grief and trauma it makes her very relatable and authentic.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
February 9, 2024
Oh my oh my!!! What a read!!!! Where do I start??! Oh ok, I know….
PSA: DO NOT READ A SOUL FOR A SOUL WITHOUT READING THE REST OF THE SERIES…. OR AT THE VERY LEAST A TRUTH FOR A TRUTH!!! This is so not a standalone, you need to have the prior knowledge. Ideally you need to start at the beginning to get the complete picture.
So picking up where A Truth For A Truth left of, Kate is hunting someone who could blow her world apart, totally destroying everything for her. Who can she trust? How far did the Syndicate’s reach infiltrate the station? But alongside that, Kate is trusted by possibly the one person she didn’t expect to. Someone who desperately needs Kate’s tenacious attitude to get justice.
Wyer adds another dimension to this instalment of the series. I got to see a lot more from DI Emma Donaldson. Until now, she’d been the supporting female in the series but now she’s becoming a joint lead. Getting this voice that’s been there in the background until now brought to the forefront the hard work Kate has done to develop her team, leading by example. I could hear Emma asking what would Kate do?
A Soul For A Soul gave me so many answers to questions that had been building along my journey with Kate through this series. Absolutely brilliant and twisted – loved it!! I really don’t want this series to end. Please Carol, say there is more to come from Kate!!!!!
PSA: DO NOT READ A SOUL FOR A SOUL WITHOUT READING THE REST OF THE SERIES…. OR AT THE VERY LEAST A TRUTH FOR A TRUTH!!! This is so not a standalone, you need to have the prior knowledge. Ideally you need to start at the beginning to get the complete picture.
So picking up where A Truth For A Truth left of, Kate is hunting someone who could blow her world apart, totally destroying everything for her. Who can she trust? How far did the Syndicate’s reach infiltrate the station? But alongside that, Kate is trusted by possibly the one person she didn’t expect to. Someone who desperately needs Kate’s tenacious attitude to get justice.
Wyer adds another dimension to this instalment of the series. I got to see a lot more from DI Emma Donaldson. Until now, she’d been the supporting female in the series but now she’s becoming a joint lead. Getting this voice that’s been there in the background until now brought to the forefront the hard work Kate has done to develop her team, leading by example. I could hear Emma asking what would Kate do?
A Soul For A Soul gave me so many answers to questions that had been building along my journey with Kate through this series. Absolutely brilliant and twisted – loved it!! I really don’t want this series to end. Please Carol, say there is more to come from Kate!!!!!
February 2, 2024
Ok, you all already know I'm a bit of a one for reading books in a series, in order!
I know people say it doesn't really matter and books can be read and enjoyed as a standalone....but no!
This is book 5 of the Detective Kate Young series and you absolutely need to read them all in order!
Not only do you appreciate the character development so much more, but there is a huge story arc that covers the series so far and *warning* there will be huge spoilers in this book and the blurb too!
Having said this, I get it's a 5 book committment already....but honestly - the journey is well worth it!
This book follows on from the cliffhanger we were left with in book 4 and we see Kate struggling with the consequences of her actions.
I have always loved Kate and find her so relatable.
Nobody could work in that job, that environment and under so much pressure without having the scars to show for it and Kate spends some time reminiscing and slipping into some version of depression - brilliantly written to seamlessly catch us up and keep us up to date with thia side of the storyline moving forward.
I loved that Kate remained determined even with the contrasting voices of her dead superiors battling away inside her head!
It was lovely to see the newly promoted Emma get her first case as DI and to see how the new dynamics of the team panned out. A really clever case that was like I've never seen before. Following this from both sides was super intriguing and had me on the edge of my seat - so many twists I had no clue who the killer was!
It was interesting to see how Emma and Morgan coped outside of work. It's definitely one of those vocations that needs a like partner, to understand the pressures, but also really does make things difficult to navigate.
This was another brilliantly written book which gripped me from the start to the very end.
I can't wait to see what is on the horizon for our team next......
I know people say it doesn't really matter and books can be read and enjoyed as a standalone....but no!
This is book 5 of the Detective Kate Young series and you absolutely need to read them all in order!
Not only do you appreciate the character development so much more, but there is a huge story arc that covers the series so far and *warning* there will be huge spoilers in this book and the blurb too!
Having said this, I get it's a 5 book committment already....but honestly - the journey is well worth it!
This book follows on from the cliffhanger we were left with in book 4 and we see Kate struggling with the consequences of her actions.
I have always loved Kate and find her so relatable.
Nobody could work in that job, that environment and under so much pressure without having the scars to show for it and Kate spends some time reminiscing and slipping into some version of depression - brilliantly written to seamlessly catch us up and keep us up to date with thia side of the storyline moving forward.
I loved that Kate remained determined even with the contrasting voices of her dead superiors battling away inside her head!
It was lovely to see the newly promoted Emma get her first case as DI and to see how the new dynamics of the team panned out. A really clever case that was like I've never seen before. Following this from both sides was super intriguing and had me on the edge of my seat - so many twists I had no clue who the killer was!
It was interesting to see how Emma and Morgan coped outside of work. It's definitely one of those vocations that needs a like partner, to understand the pressures, but also really does make things difficult to navigate.
This was another brilliantly written book which gripped me from the start to the very end.
I can't wait to see what is on the horizon for our team next......
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