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All Us Sinners
The impressive and moving debut crime novel from huge new talent Katy Massey opens up a world we have rarely seen, at a time of great danger and drama.
Leeds, 1977. A chill lies over the sex workers are being murdered by a serial killer they are calling the 'Ripper', the streets creeping with fear.
Tough, sharp, but tender, Maureen runs Rio's, a clean, discreet brothel in the city. She's a good boss who takes great care of her workers - especially her best girls, Bev and Anette. The Ripper may be terrifying girls who work the street, but at Rio's the girls seem safer.
But when Bev's sweet-natured son is found beaten to death, a figure from Maureen's past, DS Mick Hunniford, shows up at her door. Does his arrival herald danger or salvation? And who can Maureen really trust?
Leeds, 1977. A chill lies over the sex workers are being murdered by a serial killer they are calling the 'Ripper', the streets creeping with fear.
Tough, sharp, but tender, Maureen runs Rio's, a clean, discreet brothel in the city. She's a good boss who takes great care of her workers - especially her best girls, Bev and Anette. The Ripper may be terrifying girls who work the street, but at Rio's the girls seem safer.
But when Bev's sweet-natured son is found beaten to death, a figure from Maureen's past, DS Mick Hunniford, shows up at her door. Does his arrival herald danger or salvation? And who can Maureen really trust?
- GenresFiction
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 22, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up
Leeds, West Yorkshire, December 1977.
The Yorkshire Ripper stalks the streets in his vicious campaign of terror, killing mercilessly whilst the inept police investigation led by ACC George Oldfield are nowhere near catching him. Against this dark and dangerous backdrop we meet Maureen who runs ‘Rio’, a backstreet brothel. She is a really good boss who cares a great deal for her workers especially Anette and Bev. Here, these tough, strong women have created a safe haven, that is until Bev’s lovely son David is found beaten to death behind a local pub. This tragedy forces Maureen to confront her past, the haunts that still linger, particularly when DS Michael Hunniford reappears in her life. What does his appearance signify? Can she trust him? Indeed, can she trust those around her? This is part mystery/thriller/police procedural but is principally character driven which takes the reader on a rollercoaster of a journey.
This novel is so well written, extremely insightful and I think it’s very clever. These characters and David’s tragic murder - a young, innocent, harmless boy - becomes a symbol of all that is lost to The Ripper. Like his victims, David is collateral damage to someone’s evil intent. Katy Massey makes these characters come alive, the power of her writing makes me feel what they feel, so sex workers like Maureen, Anette and Bev are seen as real people, as worthy, bucking the attitude of many in the late ‘70’s especially within the police force. These are complicated characters, Maureen is resilient, kind, intuitive, brave and I like her immensely. Michael is conflicted but a decent man who does care about these women, Bev is a tough cookie who has to bear much and then there’s straight talking Anette. It’s a very emotional read at times, for example, Bev’s grief is palpable. Yet despite all the knocks and setbacks, they pick themselves up and dust themselves off and get on with it.
The author does a terrific job of capturing the time period, you sense the dark presence of Peter Sutcliffe (The Yorkshire Ripper), there’s clarity on the attitudes towards elements of society especially the victim blaming, the open racism (Maureen is mixed race) and the blatant sexism. Leeds, a city I know well and one I knew in the ‘70’s, is captured to perfection especially the atmosphere. It’s a very different city now to then. The descriptions of it allow the reader to visualise it with ease.
As the plot develops, it becomes a multi layered, Russian doll style piece of storytelling. There’s so much tension as the characters are on full alert, there are secrets and lies galore, we enter the criminal underbelly of Leeds with turfs and territories which brings it’s own brand of danger, violence and evil. The aura of foreboding is palpable as nets close in, it’s claustrophobic and there’s understandable paranoia as Maureen confronts numerous pitfalls and betrayal. The ending is very good, the twists keep on coming and I can honestly say the author grips me throughout.
What a novel. A story of unbreakable women whose indomitable spirit shines through. I hope the hint at the end means we’ll meet again!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little Brown Book Group for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Leeds, West Yorkshire, December 1977.
The Yorkshire Ripper stalks the streets in his vicious campaign of terror, killing mercilessly whilst the inept police investigation led by ACC George Oldfield are nowhere near catching him. Against this dark and dangerous backdrop we meet Maureen who runs ‘Rio’, a backstreet brothel. She is a really good boss who cares a great deal for her workers especially Anette and Bev. Here, these tough, strong women have created a safe haven, that is until Bev’s lovely son David is found beaten to death behind a local pub. This tragedy forces Maureen to confront her past, the haunts that still linger, particularly when DS Michael Hunniford reappears in her life. What does his appearance signify? Can she trust him? Indeed, can she trust those around her? This is part mystery/thriller/police procedural but is principally character driven which takes the reader on a rollercoaster of a journey.
This novel is so well written, extremely insightful and I think it’s very clever. These characters and David’s tragic murder - a young, innocent, harmless boy - becomes a symbol of all that is lost to The Ripper. Like his victims, David is collateral damage to someone’s evil intent. Katy Massey makes these characters come alive, the power of her writing makes me feel what they feel, so sex workers like Maureen, Anette and Bev are seen as real people, as worthy, bucking the attitude of many in the late ‘70’s especially within the police force. These are complicated characters, Maureen is resilient, kind, intuitive, brave and I like her immensely. Michael is conflicted but a decent man who does care about these women, Bev is a tough cookie who has to bear much and then there’s straight talking Anette. It’s a very emotional read at times, for example, Bev’s grief is palpable. Yet despite all the knocks and setbacks, they pick themselves up and dust themselves off and get on with it.
The author does a terrific job of capturing the time period, you sense the dark presence of Peter Sutcliffe (The Yorkshire Ripper), there’s clarity on the attitudes towards elements of society especially the victim blaming, the open racism (Maureen is mixed race) and the blatant sexism. Leeds, a city I know well and one I knew in the ‘70’s, is captured to perfection especially the atmosphere. It’s a very different city now to then. The descriptions of it allow the reader to visualise it with ease.
As the plot develops, it becomes a multi layered, Russian doll style piece of storytelling. There’s so much tension as the characters are on full alert, there are secrets and lies galore, we enter the criminal underbelly of Leeds with turfs and territories which brings it’s own brand of danger, violence and evil. The aura of foreboding is palpable as nets close in, it’s claustrophobic and there’s understandable paranoia as Maureen confronts numerous pitfalls and betrayal. The ending is very good, the twists keep on coming and I can honestly say the author grips me throughout.
What a novel. A story of unbreakable women whose indomitable spirit shines through. I hope the hint at the end means we’ll meet again!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little Brown Book Group for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
February 15, 2024
A very impressive debut novel from Katy Massey. Wow. This is a really dark read with some incredibly tough scenes, but it felt real, raw and captured the time so well.
It is 1977 and the Yorkshire Ripper is still at large and terrorising the women of Leeds and Yorkshire. It is winter, money is tight, people are scared and bad things are happening all around them. When a 15 year old boy is found dead outside a local pub, the community is in shock. Who would do this to a child? Police officer amici asks an old friend, Maureen for help. Maureen runs a “sauna”. In town and gets to talk to all sorts. He is hoping she can get some answers that they can’t
This books really highlights the way life was in this time. Women were second class citizens, racism was rife, things were not easy. Maureen was a black woman, working in the sex industry, just trying to make a living. She was a fantastic character, I was always hoping that things would work out for her, even if she did make some questionable decisions.
Now, this is not a book about the Ripper. Yes, it is set in the time he was around, yes the murders are talked about. This book is about so much more. It is about friendship, loyalty, love and survival.
Thank you so much to Little, Brown Book Group UK, Sphere and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Couldn’t get enough. Published on March 3rd.
It is 1977 and the Yorkshire Ripper is still at large and terrorising the women of Leeds and Yorkshire. It is winter, money is tight, people are scared and bad things are happening all around them. When a 15 year old boy is found dead outside a local pub, the community is in shock. Who would do this to a child? Police officer amici asks an old friend, Maureen for help. Maureen runs a “sauna”. In town and gets to talk to all sorts. He is hoping she can get some answers that they can’t
This books really highlights the way life was in this time. Women were second class citizens, racism was rife, things were not easy. Maureen was a black woman, working in the sex industry, just trying to make a living. She was a fantastic character, I was always hoping that things would work out for her, even if she did make some questionable decisions.
Now, this is not a book about the Ripper. Yes, it is set in the time he was around, yes the murders are talked about. This book is about so much more. It is about friendship, loyalty, love and survival.
Thank you so much to Little, Brown Book Group UK, Sphere and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Couldn’t get enough. Published on March 3rd.
June 24, 2024
4.5★s
Al Us Sinners is the first novel by British author, Katy Massey. When she was fifteen, Maureen was left orphaned and homeless when her mother inexplicably disappeared. Twenty years on, her massage parour, Rio’s, provides a safe space for clean girls to service their punters, something more necessary than ever with the Yorkshire Ripper at the sixth victim in his killing spree.
Back then, Constable Mick Hunniford was very green, but kind to her even if he didn’t believe there was foul play involved when Betty went missing. Now he’s a Detective Sergeant out of Millgarth Police Station in Leeds, where the Ripper Task Force is centred, and he’s after a favour; he wants Maureen to keep an ear out for any chat about the Ripper, but also, anything that will help him find whoever killed the sweet, innocent son of Bev, one of her own girls.
After twenty years, Mick sees himself as “one-third urban cop, one-third social worker and one-third priest”. But his boss, DI Leonard Waterhouse, has firm ideas: “that the world was made up of different groups of people, some of whom deserved the police service, and some of whom didn’t.
Waterhouse claimed that he was guided by his ‘gut’, but it was really just policing by personal prejudice, with a measure of expediency thrown in.” It meant that people like prostitutes and the less well-off were “usually ill-served by the law, which sees them as troublesome and undeserving.” Spending time finding the killer of a prostitute’s son doesn’t fit his boss’s criteria, so Mick has to get a bit creative.
While he follows up leads on possible suspects: school bullies, the step-father’s enemies, the birth father, Maureen tries to subtly question customers at Rio’s, something that might backfire on her if they twig to what she’s doing. She also goes further afield, on Mick’s suggestion, learning something that might be pertinent. She is distracted, however, by the arrival of Bev’s attractive brother, Dermot, Maureen’s crush as a teen.
But when another man dies, and the police seem happy to mark both cases as solved, Maureen isn’t satisfied, and keeps digging on her own. But a beautiful mixed-race woman isn’t exactly inconspicuous and “She had sailed close to the wind with her investigations and upset powerful people” having little concept of the danger stalking her…
Massey’s rendition of mid-seventies Leeds, the landscape and mindset, presented an unconventional perspective, is flawless. She gives the reader a dark and gritty tale with a gutsy female protagonist, of whom more would be welcome. This is an outstanding debut.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK.
Al Us Sinners is the first novel by British author, Katy Massey. When she was fifteen, Maureen was left orphaned and homeless when her mother inexplicably disappeared. Twenty years on, her massage parour, Rio’s, provides a safe space for clean girls to service their punters, something more necessary than ever with the Yorkshire Ripper at the sixth victim in his killing spree.
Back then, Constable Mick Hunniford was very green, but kind to her even if he didn’t believe there was foul play involved when Betty went missing. Now he’s a Detective Sergeant out of Millgarth Police Station in Leeds, where the Ripper Task Force is centred, and he’s after a favour; he wants Maureen to keep an ear out for any chat about the Ripper, but also, anything that will help him find whoever killed the sweet, innocent son of Bev, one of her own girls.
After twenty years, Mick sees himself as “one-third urban cop, one-third social worker and one-third priest”. But his boss, DI Leonard Waterhouse, has firm ideas: “that the world was made up of different groups of people, some of whom deserved the police service, and some of whom didn’t.
Waterhouse claimed that he was guided by his ‘gut’, but it was really just policing by personal prejudice, with a measure of expediency thrown in.” It meant that people like prostitutes and the less well-off were “usually ill-served by the law, which sees them as troublesome and undeserving.” Spending time finding the killer of a prostitute’s son doesn’t fit his boss’s criteria, so Mick has to get a bit creative.
While he follows up leads on possible suspects: school bullies, the step-father’s enemies, the birth father, Maureen tries to subtly question customers at Rio’s, something that might backfire on her if they twig to what she’s doing. She also goes further afield, on Mick’s suggestion, learning something that might be pertinent. She is distracted, however, by the arrival of Bev’s attractive brother, Dermot, Maureen’s crush as a teen.
But when another man dies, and the police seem happy to mark both cases as solved, Maureen isn’t satisfied, and keeps digging on her own. But a beautiful mixed-race woman isn’t exactly inconspicuous and “She had sailed close to the wind with her investigations and upset powerful people” having little concept of the danger stalking her…
Massey’s rendition of mid-seventies Leeds, the landscape and mindset, presented an unconventional perspective, is flawless. She gives the reader a dark and gritty tale with a gutsy female protagonist, of whom more would be welcome. This is an outstanding debut.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK.
February 20, 2024
It's 1977 in Leeds and mention of the "new ripper" has prostitutes in fear, but of course they still work the streets because its how they earn their money. Maureen, a tough but kind hearted former prostitute runs Rio's, a clean brothel, she looks after her girls and they feel safe working there. Bev and Anette are her best girls, but when Bev's gentle son David is murdered they realise the devil is close to them inside as well as outside.
All us sinners is a dark, gritty crime novel by Katy Massey, its her debut novel but you certainly wouldn't think so. The writing is on point and characterisation, conversations and feelings are true to the 1970's.
Although there are references to The Yorkshire Ripper the book isn't centered on his crimes, it creates an atmosphere of fear and terror but also underlying a sense of friendship and loyalties, a time when everyone looked out for each other.
I'm grateful to Netgalley and Little Brown Bookgroup for the opportunity to read this advanced copy with no to obligation to review
All us sinners is a dark, gritty crime novel by Katy Massey, its her debut novel but you certainly wouldn't think so. The writing is on point and characterisation, conversations and feelings are true to the 1970's.
Although there are references to The Yorkshire Ripper the book isn't centered on his crimes, it creates an atmosphere of fear and terror but also underlying a sense of friendship and loyalties, a time when everyone looked out for each other.
I'm grateful to Netgalley and Little Brown Bookgroup for the opportunity to read this advanced copy with no to obligation to review
April 11, 2024
Admittedly, I do think the crime intrigue element to this book is lacking (partly because I figured stuff out quite quickly) but the characters are amazing.
Maureen is an absolute icon, love her jumpsuit, love her personality. The web of characters that Massey creates is so lush and vibrant and the world feels so real and tangible in a way I haven't read in a book in years. You really understand how lives intersect and the personal stakes when Maureen begins investigating and everyone becomes embroiled in the crime.
And yes, sex worker representation. It's brilliant. Particularly love the use of the Yorkshire Ripper media frenzy to highlight sensationalism and the biases in the police, the very honest notion that they only care when the papers/people care when it comes to violence against sex workers, or when the number becomes so high that ignoring it would be bad for their jobs.
Maureen is an absolute icon, love her jumpsuit, love her personality. The web of characters that Massey creates is so lush and vibrant and the world feels so real and tangible in a way I haven't read in a book in years. You really understand how lives intersect and the personal stakes when Maureen begins investigating and everyone becomes embroiled in the crime.
And yes, sex worker representation. It's brilliant. Particularly love the use of the Yorkshire Ripper media frenzy to highlight sensationalism and the biases in the police, the very honest notion that they only care when the papers/people care when it comes to violence against sex workers, or when the number becomes so high that ignoring it would be bad for their jobs.
February 12, 2024
I think if this book had been marketed differently I’d of enjoyed it more? The blurb on the back made me think I would be reading a story about the lives of prositututes Within the time of the ripper in Leeds in the 70s, dealing with the prejudice the profession comes with etc. but I felt it missed this point, there was elements of talking about the treatment of women, specifically prostitutes but I felt like most of this book was about a murder of a man, despite multiple women being murdered in the same city. And I just felt like maybe it missed the point it was trying to make.
April 13, 2024
All Us Sinner was a very strong debut from this author and she officially got additional one fans. The story take place at 1977, when Yorkshire Ripper is still become terror for women of Leeds and Yorkshire.
The premises was intriguing with multilayer facts. The plot isnt centered around the murder only but give more messages about family, loyalty and women rights. The writing are accessible, easy to follow and perfect to capture the dynamic and 70's atmosphere. The characters are amazing strong and easy to remember.
Thank you Netgalley and Sphere Publisher from LBBG UK for providing copy of this ebook. I have voluntarily read and reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Expecting Publication : 7 March 2024
The premises was intriguing with multilayer facts. The plot isnt centered around the murder only but give more messages about family, loyalty and women rights. The writing are accessible, easy to follow and perfect to capture the dynamic and 70's atmosphere. The characters are amazing strong and easy to remember.
Thank you Netgalley and Sphere Publisher from LBBG UK for providing copy of this ebook. I have voluntarily read and reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Expecting Publication : 7 March 2024
April 18, 2024
I love books set in my hometown of Leeds so I immediately bought this book set in 70s Leeds during the Yorkshire Ripper's reign of terror. However this is not a book about the Ripper, but the protagonist is Mo, an ex prostitute who now runs a massage Parlour called Rio's, employing her two friends, Bev and Annette. When Bev's gentle teenage son is brutally murdered Mo tries to find out what really happened.
The author brilliantly captures the mood of the time and strongly conveys the fear that women, and especially working girls, feel because a serial killer is on the loose. As a woman in my early twenties living in Leeds in 1977 I could well understand this. The women, and Mo in particular, are the stars of this book. They are so well drawn and realistic and I was totally invested in their lives. The book is about friendship and loyalty and survival. It also covers the difficult topics of racism, sexism and police bias. I loved the local detail with locations that I know. This is a fantastic debut novel, ad I'd love to see Mo again in a sequel!
Cathy Tyson is a great actress but I'm not sure she was the right narrator for this book. She obviously does not know Leeds so there were a couple of place name mispronunciations and I'd have preferred to listen to someone with a Leeds accent.
The author brilliantly captures the mood of the time and strongly conveys the fear that women, and especially working girls, feel because a serial killer is on the loose. As a woman in my early twenties living in Leeds in 1977 I could well understand this. The women, and Mo in particular, are the stars of this book. They are so well drawn and realistic and I was totally invested in their lives. The book is about friendship and loyalty and survival. It also covers the difficult topics of racism, sexism and police bias. I loved the local detail with locations that I know. This is a fantastic debut novel, ad I'd love to see Mo again in a sequel!
Cathy Tyson is a great actress but I'm not sure she was the right narrator for this book. She obviously does not know Leeds so there were a couple of place name mispronunciations and I'd have preferred to listen to someone with a Leeds accent.
September 14, 2025
I found this a disappointing read I was expecting something dark and gritty but instead I found it slow and dull. I liked the time setting but with the exception of Maureen all the other characters merged into a confusing mess.
February 25, 2025
I really like books set in this era with this atmospheric dark setting, the chilling tense vibes that come from having a serial killer lurking in the shadows.
The book did a really good job of setting the scene and I can visualise the streets and Rio’s, and the pub really well.
Generally, I enjoyed the book, I liked the dynamic between Maureen and the police detective, Mick. Felt their connection, despite being on opposite sides of the law so to speak. But in all honesty, I was expecting the book to focus more on the Ripper, rather than the other dodgy dealings of the every day residents and their drama.
I thought that the story of the young boy being killed, the grief of the family, and the investigation around this was done well. Just not sure I was that invested in all the other stuff going on.
Good vibes, just not exactly what I was hoping for in relation to the story and not the ‘thriller’ it was sold to me as.
Thank you to @netgalley and @littlebrownbookgroup_uk for my free digital copy of this for review.
3.25/5
The book did a really good job of setting the scene and I can visualise the streets and Rio’s, and the pub really well.
Generally, I enjoyed the book, I liked the dynamic between Maureen and the police detective, Mick. Felt their connection, despite being on opposite sides of the law so to speak. But in all honesty, I was expecting the book to focus more on the Ripper, rather than the other dodgy dealings of the every day residents and their drama.
I thought that the story of the young boy being killed, the grief of the family, and the investigation around this was done well. Just not sure I was that invested in all the other stuff going on.
Good vibes, just not exactly what I was hoping for in relation to the story and not the ‘thriller’ it was sold to me as.
Thank you to @netgalley and @littlebrownbookgroup_uk for my free digital copy of this for review.
3.25/5
March 7, 2024
On face value this is a book about a serial killer murdering prostitutes in the 1970s in ripper style. What the book seems to focus more on, however, is the murder of a young man whose mother runs the pseudo respectable brothel style set up. The fact that the murder of multiple prostitutes is more of a side story feels a little strange to me but I gave it a good chance regardless.
The premise that the story was set in the 1970s also passed me by a little, which was slightly disappointing and I feel there could have been more cultural and immersive details included as this was a bit under explored for me and I kept forgetting that it wasn’t modern day.
The story was good enough but didn’t a hundred percent captivate me as I felt it promised. Definitely worth a read regardless, just not entirely for me.
The premise that the story was set in the 1970s also passed me by a little, which was slightly disappointing and I feel there could have been more cultural and immersive details included as this was a bit under explored for me and I kept forgetting that it wasn’t modern day.
The story was good enough but didn’t a hundred percent captivate me as I felt it promised. Definitely worth a read regardless, just not entirely for me.
October 14, 2023
The world of police procedural and detective novels is laden with many writers- each establishing a niche whether it be through lead protagonist or period. Entering this world as an author must be daunting; Katy Massey has written a tough period crime drama and for her first novel it certainly grabs your attention.
Set sensitively against the backdrop of the horrendous crimes of the Yorkshire Ripper, the story focuses around Maureen who runs a brothel in Leeds. She and her team- Bev and Anette- are very aware of the climate of fear especially when her friend Bev's son is found dead,
Maureen finds herself confronting her past when the DS for the case comes to ask questions. She soon finds herself pulled deeper into the world of local crime and gangs and isn't sure who to trust. This is a gritty novel and doesn't shy away from the lives of the women and the 1970s desperation to survive- it would be easy to see the characters as cliches- especially in comparison to our 'supposed enlightened 2020s' but Katy Massey's writing creates fully formed individuals against a tough backdrop of the 1970s.
Capturing a period is not easy - especially if it feels details are shoe-horned in for effect but this isn't the case. There are subtle pieces of information about everyday 70s life which enhance the read. Comparisons to Val Mc Dermid who manages to create earthy pitch perfect period detective novels can be made.
Who to trust and how to survive is the key focus of the story. Maureen does take risks and the world she frequents is on the margins of mainstream society but you will wish her to succeed and stay safe.
This is not your usual crime /detective fiction. Katy Massey has drawn from personal experience and knowledge and produced an edgy with the atmosphere of the seventies pervading through the pages.
Set sensitively against the backdrop of the horrendous crimes of the Yorkshire Ripper, the story focuses around Maureen who runs a brothel in Leeds. She and her team- Bev and Anette- are very aware of the climate of fear especially when her friend Bev's son is found dead,
Maureen finds herself confronting her past when the DS for the case comes to ask questions. She soon finds herself pulled deeper into the world of local crime and gangs and isn't sure who to trust. This is a gritty novel and doesn't shy away from the lives of the women and the 1970s desperation to survive- it would be easy to see the characters as cliches- especially in comparison to our 'supposed enlightened 2020s' but Katy Massey's writing creates fully formed individuals against a tough backdrop of the 1970s.
Capturing a period is not easy - especially if it feels details are shoe-horned in for effect but this isn't the case. There are subtle pieces of information about everyday 70s life which enhance the read. Comparisons to Val Mc Dermid who manages to create earthy pitch perfect period detective novels can be made.
Who to trust and how to survive is the key focus of the story. Maureen does take risks and the world she frequents is on the margins of mainstream society but you will wish her to succeed and stay safe.
This is not your usual crime /detective fiction. Katy Massey has drawn from personal experience and knowledge and produced an edgy with the atmosphere of the seventies pervading through the pages.
October 10, 2023
I’m afraid I didn’t like this book. . There was no real momentum in the story. I thought that , given it was written with the Yorkshire Ripper in the background, that it would be more suspenseful. I couldn’t engage with the characters- I thought they were cliched and weak. Sorry - not for me. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a prepublication ebook.
July 9, 2025
Set in the late 70s around the time of the Yorkshire ripper. It centres around a brothel madam and the death of a young boy. She starts to investigate encouraged a little by a local cop who has known her for many years. I just didn’t find it all that interesting. It sort of plodded along and didn’t really hang together in my view.
October 15, 2023
2.5 stars
I don't know if it's me or the book, but I found d this one hard work.
I didnt really get a feel for any of the characters beyond surface level.
Just not for me.
I don't know if it's me or the book, but I found d this one hard work.
I didnt really get a feel for any of the characters beyond surface level.
Just not for me.
March 4, 2024
Katy Massey’s book is set in Leeds during the horrible period that was Peter Sutcliffe’s killing ground/ It is not a book about the so-called ‘Yorkshire Ripper’ but those events provide a chilling background to what is happening in the town.
Amid the scare money is scarce and there are fewer people on the streets. Maureen runs the Rio sauna/massage parlour which is fooling no-one, but at least her women are safer indoors than on the streets. Her two best workers, Bev and Annette know just how to treat their clients and there’s seldom any trouble. And at least the police have better things to do now than giving them trouble.
Maureen is mixed race at a time when racism is all too pervasive and she has had a hard upbringing. Her mother left her at an early age and her stepfather never cared about her at all and left her homeless early on. Her half-sister Pam despises and looks down on her. But she’s made something of herself, even if it is running a brothel and she treats her workers as well as she can.
Then Bev’s son David is murdered, his body left behind a local public house and none of them can believe it. A boy who loved animals and being outdoors, it’s hard to believe anyone would be so cruel to a young lad. Bev is destroyed and suspicion falls on her man, Tony – Maureen knows he beats Bev and is into all kinds of dodgy stuff.
Maureen knows DS Mick Hunniford and she’s really not sure he has her best interests at heart. But she really wants David’s murderer found and she needs him to focus on that case and not be drawn into the wider Ripper case and forget about David, so she does a deal with him and agrees to do some digging for him. Maureen also has a need for information about her own life and she sees Hunniford as a way to get that. He’s an odd character; he seems straight as a die but Maureen still isn’t sure she can trust him.
Soon she finds herself in the sordid world of drugs, hard crime and local gangsters, something she’s not really prepared for. Even the return of good looking Dermot, Bev’s brother, doesn’t quite allay her mistrust of men.
This novel shines because it doesn’t glorify the women who work in the brothels or on the streets. These are not ‘tarts with heart’, rather they are well drawn characters making a living in a tough economy in one of the few ways open to them.
The portrayal of Leeds in the 70’s has some nice local detail, especially around the music scene for young people in the region. There’s an authenticity to the brothel, even down to Maureen complaining about the number of towels she has to launder, and the streets are full of an atmosphere of poverty, cold and damp with people who walk with their heads down.
Verdict: I’d have liked a little more information about the character of DS Mick Hunniford, but this is clearly designed to be the first book in a series, so I look forward to learning more in subsequent books. Overall, a good start to a new series with lots of themes ripe for following up.
Amid the scare money is scarce and there are fewer people on the streets. Maureen runs the Rio sauna/massage parlour which is fooling no-one, but at least her women are safer indoors than on the streets. Her two best workers, Bev and Annette know just how to treat their clients and there’s seldom any trouble. And at least the police have better things to do now than giving them trouble.
Maureen is mixed race at a time when racism is all too pervasive and she has had a hard upbringing. Her mother left her at an early age and her stepfather never cared about her at all and left her homeless early on. Her half-sister Pam despises and looks down on her. But she’s made something of herself, even if it is running a brothel and she treats her workers as well as she can.
Then Bev’s son David is murdered, his body left behind a local public house and none of them can believe it. A boy who loved animals and being outdoors, it’s hard to believe anyone would be so cruel to a young lad. Bev is destroyed and suspicion falls on her man, Tony – Maureen knows he beats Bev and is into all kinds of dodgy stuff.
Maureen knows DS Mick Hunniford and she’s really not sure he has her best interests at heart. But she really wants David’s murderer found and she needs him to focus on that case and not be drawn into the wider Ripper case and forget about David, so she does a deal with him and agrees to do some digging for him. Maureen also has a need for information about her own life and she sees Hunniford as a way to get that. He’s an odd character; he seems straight as a die but Maureen still isn’t sure she can trust him.
Soon she finds herself in the sordid world of drugs, hard crime and local gangsters, something she’s not really prepared for. Even the return of good looking Dermot, Bev’s brother, doesn’t quite allay her mistrust of men.
This novel shines because it doesn’t glorify the women who work in the brothels or on the streets. These are not ‘tarts with heart’, rather they are well drawn characters making a living in a tough economy in one of the few ways open to them.
The portrayal of Leeds in the 70’s has some nice local detail, especially around the music scene for young people in the region. There’s an authenticity to the brothel, even down to Maureen complaining about the number of towels she has to launder, and the streets are full of an atmosphere of poverty, cold and damp with people who walk with their heads down.
Verdict: I’d have liked a little more information about the character of DS Mick Hunniford, but this is clearly designed to be the first book in a series, so I look forward to learning more in subsequent books. Overall, a good start to a new series with lots of themes ripe for following up.
March 7, 2024
Despite the themes in this novel, and the grimy, dingy and sometimes squalid setting, there's a powerful, almost poetic feel to the writing. As a reader, I felt somewhat voyeuristic, as though I were standing on the sidelines, privy to the characters's thoughts and emotions. That's not to say that these characters are distant or inaccessible - they are beautifully created and I was totally invested in all of them.
Leeds in 1977 wasn't the most jolly of places to be. The city is overshadowed by the on-going search for the man they are calling the 'Ripper'. A fiend who targets sex workers, murdering and mutilating their bodies, and leaving them for others to find. Despite the horrors of women being murdered, there's certainly an element of disdain shown toward the victims. These are women who walk the streets and sell their bodies. Some of the police officers on the case, and many of the public, led by the press have their own opinions about what the Ripper is doing, and some of the comments make for very hard reading.
However, the Ripper is not the only murderer on the streets, and women have not been the only victims. When young David is found beaten to death outside a backstreet pub, his mother Bev, and her colleagues are heartbroken, and angry.
Bev and Annette work for Maureen at Rio's; a sauna and massage parlour. Maureen takes the lead in this novel, it is her story and whilst the killings are centre stage, it is Maureen's own life story that is the most compelling. A woman with a tortured background, whose mother left when she was just a girl, Maureen appears hard and at times, very cold. Yet there's a vulnerability in her that shines through every now and again; she cares deeply about her 'girls', and is determined that David's killer will be brought to justice.
There's one man who knows a great deal about Maureen. DS Mick Hunniford, from Liverpool originally, but has been in Leeds for many years. Mick knew Maureen when she was that young, abandoned girl, he has watched her enter the sex trade, and knows more about her than he has ever said. I'd love to learn more about Mick, he's not a regular copper, there's so much more to him; from his fastidiously tidy car, to this reaction to comments made by his peers. He has depth and is an intriguing character for sure.
This is an intelligent, complex and beautifully written story, led completely by the colourful characters who populate it. As the story progresses, the reader becomes more aware of just how strong Maureen is, the lengths that she will go to to ensure that justice is found. Leeds in the 1970s was a very different place to the city now, and the author's descriptions are magical, along with her clever characterisation and the inclusion of the unexpected along the way.
Written from the heart, with the odd touch of humour to shine a little light into the darkness, All Us Sinners is an accomplished and skilled debut from an author who is certainly one to watch
Leeds in 1977 wasn't the most jolly of places to be. The city is overshadowed by the on-going search for the man they are calling the 'Ripper'. A fiend who targets sex workers, murdering and mutilating their bodies, and leaving them for others to find. Despite the horrors of women being murdered, there's certainly an element of disdain shown toward the victims. These are women who walk the streets and sell their bodies. Some of the police officers on the case, and many of the public, led by the press have their own opinions about what the Ripper is doing, and some of the comments make for very hard reading.
However, the Ripper is not the only murderer on the streets, and women have not been the only victims. When young David is found beaten to death outside a backstreet pub, his mother Bev, and her colleagues are heartbroken, and angry.
Bev and Annette work for Maureen at Rio's; a sauna and massage parlour. Maureen takes the lead in this novel, it is her story and whilst the killings are centre stage, it is Maureen's own life story that is the most compelling. A woman with a tortured background, whose mother left when she was just a girl, Maureen appears hard and at times, very cold. Yet there's a vulnerability in her that shines through every now and again; she cares deeply about her 'girls', and is determined that David's killer will be brought to justice.
There's one man who knows a great deal about Maureen. DS Mick Hunniford, from Liverpool originally, but has been in Leeds for many years. Mick knew Maureen when she was that young, abandoned girl, he has watched her enter the sex trade, and knows more about her than he has ever said. I'd love to learn more about Mick, he's not a regular copper, there's so much more to him; from his fastidiously tidy car, to this reaction to comments made by his peers. He has depth and is an intriguing character for sure.
This is an intelligent, complex and beautifully written story, led completely by the colourful characters who populate it. As the story progresses, the reader becomes more aware of just how strong Maureen is, the lengths that she will go to to ensure that justice is found. Leeds in the 1970s was a very different place to the city now, and the author's descriptions are magical, along with her clever characterisation and the inclusion of the unexpected along the way.
Written from the heart, with the odd touch of humour to shine a little light into the darkness, All Us Sinners is an accomplished and skilled debut from an author who is certainly one to watch
February 27, 2024
Set in the late 70s, during the time of the Yorkshire Ripper, we meet Maureen who runs a highly successful brothel in Leeds. She is a good boss to all her girls, especially her top two, Bev and Anette. Her premises is a safe place for them to ply their trade, rather than the streets where fear is rife. But bad things can always sneak in the door and this happens to Bev when her son is found beaten to death. He's a good boy, so it beggars belief why this has been done to him. If it were his wastrel father then that could be explained but not David. Luckily DS Mick Hunniford is on the case. I say luckily, but given Maureen's past with him, maybe that's not quite accurate...
This book initially reminded me of the TV program Ripper Street, with the well run brothel, the cop, and the Ripper backstory... But that's where the similarity ends. This book is a whole world different to that once it all gets going. It really took me back to the late 70 and, although living in the South, I don't think anyone wasn't touched by what was happening in the North. The time period felt wholly genuine and I managed to fully immerse myself therein. You do have to remember though that attitudes were different then and the author pulls no punches with many "isms".
I really took to Maureen from the off. She has broken ranks with what she is "supposed" to be and has carved out a good life for herself and the others she employs. Yes, she's not perfect but she always does the best she thinks she can. She doesn't shy away from the darker side of life which helps with her endeavours to find out what happened to David. Trust is an issue for her, but I will leave you to discover the whys and wherefores for yourself.
All in all this is a hard hitting gritty crime book which grabbed me from the off and held my attention throughout. So much so that I went to check out the author's back catalogue and, to my astonishment, discovered that this is her debut book. Hats off for that, now I really can't wait to see what she serves up for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
This book initially reminded me of the TV program Ripper Street, with the well run brothel, the cop, and the Ripper backstory... But that's where the similarity ends. This book is a whole world different to that once it all gets going. It really took me back to the late 70 and, although living in the South, I don't think anyone wasn't touched by what was happening in the North. The time period felt wholly genuine and I managed to fully immerse myself therein. You do have to remember though that attitudes were different then and the author pulls no punches with many "isms".
I really took to Maureen from the off. She has broken ranks with what she is "supposed" to be and has carved out a good life for herself and the others she employs. Yes, she's not perfect but she always does the best she thinks she can. She doesn't shy away from the darker side of life which helps with her endeavours to find out what happened to David. Trust is an issue for her, but I will leave you to discover the whys and wherefores for yourself.
All in all this is a hard hitting gritty crime book which grabbed me from the off and held my attention throughout. So much so that I went to check out the author's back catalogue and, to my astonishment, discovered that this is her debut book. Hats off for that, now I really can't wait to see what she serves up for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
April 1, 2025
All Us Sinners is her debut fictional novel, which follows the lives of sex workers in 1970s Leeds as the Yorkshire Ripper roams the streets. Growing up in Leeds in the 1970s and 1980s as a young mixed-race girl and mother working in the sex industry, Katy was inspired to highlight women as individuals rather than the single characteristic they were reduced to in society, a prostitute.
Maureen was fifteen when her mother mysteriously disappeared, and she was left orphaned. Now, twenty years later in 1977, she runs Rios, a discreet brothel in the centre of Leeds and a place of refuge for sex workers in the era of the Yorkshire Ripper. Solicitous and resilient, Maureen ensures her girls endure the best care, especially Bev and Annette, so when Bev’s son with the guiless smile is found dead, she endeavours to find the perpetrator. Along with her old friend DS Mich Hunniford, who shows up on Rio’s doorstep asking for help, they follow leads that could prove pertinent. However, being a mixed-race sex worker, Maureen encounters prejudice and danger as people and their crimes intersect.
All Us Sinners is a gritty mystery that delves into the systemic prejudice, sensationalism, and omnipresent fear, capturing the dynamic of 1970s Northern England. As well as covering misogyny, racism, and police bias, friendship and loyalty are also at the heart, as women strive to survive in the era of the Yorkshire Ripper.
From the blurb, it seemingly centres on the lives of sex workers in 1970s Northern England, but the death of David is at the forefront, with the Ripper's victims somewhat a side story. Albeit perhaps unintentional, it perfectly represents how some lives are worth more than others. Despite the book being slightly different to the premise, it is nevertheless a good read.
Maureen was fifteen when her mother mysteriously disappeared, and she was left orphaned. Now, twenty years later in 1977, she runs Rios, a discreet brothel in the centre of Leeds and a place of refuge for sex workers in the era of the Yorkshire Ripper. Solicitous and resilient, Maureen ensures her girls endure the best care, especially Bev and Annette, so when Bev’s son with the guiless smile is found dead, she endeavours to find the perpetrator. Along with her old friend DS Mich Hunniford, who shows up on Rio’s doorstep asking for help, they follow leads that could prove pertinent. However, being a mixed-race sex worker, Maureen encounters prejudice and danger as people and their crimes intersect.
All Us Sinners is a gritty mystery that delves into the systemic prejudice, sensationalism, and omnipresent fear, capturing the dynamic of 1970s Northern England. As well as covering misogyny, racism, and police bias, friendship and loyalty are also at the heart, as women strive to survive in the era of the Yorkshire Ripper.
From the blurb, it seemingly centres on the lives of sex workers in 1970s Northern England, but the death of David is at the forefront, with the Ripper's victims somewhat a side story. Albeit perhaps unintentional, it perfectly represents how some lives are worth more than others. Despite the book being slightly different to the premise, it is nevertheless a good read.
January 9, 2024
All Us Sinners is a crime novel and works well as such, but it's a lot more than that, with beautiful moments of writing, literary merit, and engaging characters.
The setting is 1970's Leeds and it is refreshing to see working class characters and locations represented. The central character of Mo is very striking, she represents one of several strong female characters in the book, much needed in crime and other fiction. All the characters are treated authentically and with care. As someone who comes from this part of the world and remembers this period, it feels convincing and it's good to have that representation.
Portrayal of the brothel and its workers and clients appears realistic, and done knowledgeably and without sensation. This and other settings in the book provide us with a wonderful feel for this world, which can be dark and foreboding but also warm and familiar.
I found the story well handled and it kept me wanting to read on, though the best part of this book for me was the rich characters; Mo is a brilliant central presence, tough and with great drive, wit and presence. Many of the other characters could also stand alone and have a distinct life.
I really loved this, great atmosphere and feel, period detail but modern resonance; the characters live on outside the book and I was left wanting to spend more time with them.
The setting is 1970's Leeds and it is refreshing to see working class characters and locations represented. The central character of Mo is very striking, she represents one of several strong female characters in the book, much needed in crime and other fiction. All the characters are treated authentically and with care. As someone who comes from this part of the world and remembers this period, it feels convincing and it's good to have that representation.
Portrayal of the brothel and its workers and clients appears realistic, and done knowledgeably and without sensation. This and other settings in the book provide us with a wonderful feel for this world, which can be dark and foreboding but also warm and familiar.
I found the story well handled and it kept me wanting to read on, though the best part of this book for me was the rich characters; Mo is a brilliant central presence, tough and with great drive, wit and presence. Many of the other characters could also stand alone and have a distinct life.
I really loved this, great atmosphere and feel, period detail but modern resonance; the characters live on outside the book and I was left wanting to spend more time with them.
March 1, 2024
Set against the backdrop of Yorkshire Ripper, the novel transports you to a bygone era, where secrets lurk in every shadow and danger lurks around every corner. Massey's meticulous attention to historical detail breathes life into the narrative, immersing you in a world teeming with authenticity and atmosphere.
The characters, vividly drawn and impeccably fleshed out, leap off the page with palpable intensity. From the enigmatic protagonist whose dogged pursuit of truth propels the narrative forward, each character is a masterclass in complexity and nuance.
But it's the intricate web of mystery and suspense that truly sets "All Us Sinners" apart. Every twist and turn of the plot is expertly crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they race to uncover the truth. Just when you think you've unraveled the mystery, another layer is peeled back, revealing even more shocking revelations.
"All Us Sinners" is more than just a crime thriller—it's a breathtaking journey through history's darkest secrets, a pulse-pounding adventure that will leave you begging for more. With its masterful storytelling, rich historical detail, and heart-stopping suspense, this is a novel that will linger in your mind long after you've turned the final page. Highly recommended for fans of historical crime fiction and anyone who loves a good mystery!
The characters, vividly drawn and impeccably fleshed out, leap off the page with palpable intensity. From the enigmatic protagonist whose dogged pursuit of truth propels the narrative forward, each character is a masterclass in complexity and nuance.
But it's the intricate web of mystery and suspense that truly sets "All Us Sinners" apart. Every twist and turn of the plot is expertly crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they race to uncover the truth. Just when you think you've unraveled the mystery, another layer is peeled back, revealing even more shocking revelations.
"All Us Sinners" is more than just a crime thriller—it's a breathtaking journey through history's darkest secrets, a pulse-pounding adventure that will leave you begging for more. With its masterful storytelling, rich historical detail, and heart-stopping suspense, this is a novel that will linger in your mind long after you've turned the final page. Highly recommended for fans of historical crime fiction and anyone who loves a good mystery!
February 17, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
Leeds, 1977. A chill lies over the sex workers as they are being killed by a serial killer they are calling the "Ripper,"the streets creeping with fear. Tough, sharp, but tender, Maureen runs Rio's, a clean, discreet brothel in the city. She's a good boss who takes great care of her workers - especially her best girls, Bev and Annette. The Ripper may be terrifying girl's who work the streets, but at Rio's the girls seem safer. But when Bev's sweet=natured son is found beaten to death, a figure from Maureen's past, DS Mick Hunniford, shows up at her door. Does his arrival herald danger or salvation? And who can Maureen really trust?
The story focuses around Maureen who runs a brothel in Leeds, It's also set against the backdrop of the crimes of the Yorkshire Ripper. There are lots of strong female characters in this book. It's quite a dark and gritty read, but there wasn't really any suspense to the story. I didn't know who I could trust. This is an enjoyable debut novel.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #LittleBrownBookGroup and the author #KatyMassey for my ARC of #AllUsSinners in exchange for an honest review.
Leeds, 1977. A chill lies over the sex workers as they are being killed by a serial killer they are calling the "Ripper,"the streets creeping with fear. Tough, sharp, but tender, Maureen runs Rio's, a clean, discreet brothel in the city. She's a good boss who takes great care of her workers - especially her best girls, Bev and Annette. The Ripper may be terrifying girl's who work the streets, but at Rio's the girls seem safer. But when Bev's sweet=natured son is found beaten to death, a figure from Maureen's past, DS Mick Hunniford, shows up at her door. Does his arrival herald danger or salvation? And who can Maureen really trust?
The story focuses around Maureen who runs a brothel in Leeds, It's also set against the backdrop of the crimes of the Yorkshire Ripper. There are lots of strong female characters in this book. It's quite a dark and gritty read, but there wasn't really any suspense to the story. I didn't know who I could trust. This is an enjoyable debut novel.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #LittleBrownBookGroup and the author #KatyMassey for my ARC of #AllUsSinners in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2024
Maureen used to be a street girl but now she runs Rio's, a clean, safe sauna in Leeds. Outside in the city women are living in fear of the Ripper but Mo hopes that her team are as safe as she can make them. However violence comes to visit when the young son of one of her girls is found beaten to death. Soon afterwards Mo finds herself looked up by a previous acquaintance, Mick, a detective. Suddenly Mo finds herself working to try to find the truth and whether it involves the Ripper, the IRA or just the local Leeds gangsters.
I really liked this book on a few levels levels. Firstly it's just a great story where the working girls are not just the victims but are portrayed as real people with mouths to feed. Secondly because it's set in Leeds and the Leeds of the mid-1970s, a place of industry and fear, which I remember from my childhood. Finally because it reflects Leeds as a melting pot of cultures and the inherent racism and sexism of the time is depicted with restraint. This is a debut novel and it is an impressive one.
I really liked this book on a few levels levels. Firstly it's just a great story where the working girls are not just the victims but are portrayed as real people with mouths to feed. Secondly because it's set in Leeds and the Leeds of the mid-1970s, a place of industry and fear, which I remember from my childhood. Finally because it reflects Leeds as a melting pot of cultures and the inherent racism and sexism of the time is depicted with restraint. This is a debut novel and it is an impressive one.
March 27, 2024
It’s Leeds in 1977, there’s a Ripper on the loose murdering working girls.
The story centres around Maureen who runs Rio’s, a discreet “sauna” (read brothel) in the city and her various relationships both professional and personal. Rio’s seems to be safe from the grasp of the Ripper, especially for her two best workers Bev and Anette. That is until Bev’s teenage son David is murdered and swiftly after him another member of her family.
Maureen (Mo) is drawn into the investigation by Mick, but are the deaths linked to the Ripper or is it something else?
This debut novel by Kate Massey is gripping, a dark period story of the Leeds sex worker scene and the dangers and drama they faced, racism and Mo’s determination to survive as a black woman in a tough business, dodgy relationships, gritty twists and risk taking.
While this book wouldn’t normally be my cup of tea - I’m not usually into stories relating to sex worker protagonists - I did enjoy reading it - very Val McDermidesqe in the way it alludes to the time period without being in your face, and the ending definitely made me wonder if there will be more from Mo and/or Mick to come.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, this book is out now.
#netgalley #netgalleyarc
The story centres around Maureen who runs Rio’s, a discreet “sauna” (read brothel) in the city and her various relationships both professional and personal. Rio’s seems to be safe from the grasp of the Ripper, especially for her two best workers Bev and Anette. That is until Bev’s teenage son David is murdered and swiftly after him another member of her family.
Maureen (Mo) is drawn into the investigation by Mick, but are the deaths linked to the Ripper or is it something else?
This debut novel by Kate Massey is gripping, a dark period story of the Leeds sex worker scene and the dangers and drama they faced, racism and Mo’s determination to survive as a black woman in a tough business, dodgy relationships, gritty twists and risk taking.
While this book wouldn’t normally be my cup of tea - I’m not usually into stories relating to sex worker protagonists - I did enjoy reading it - very Val McDermidesqe in the way it alludes to the time period without being in your face, and the ending definitely made me wonder if there will be more from Mo and/or Mick to come.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, this book is out now.
#netgalley #netgalleyarc
February 29, 2024
Welcome to Maureen’s world. To the backdrop of the Yorkshire Ripper, the police in chaos, no further ahead with the investigation than after the first death, the strategy appears to be simply to round up men practically at random, while the women of Leeds and neighbouring towns live in fear, especially those who live on the fringes of society, and those most targeted by the killer, those who work in the sex industry.
Though still a young woman, Maureen has had to live off her own wits for far too long. But she is not as alone as she thinks. Running a successful brothel in the city, her world is turned upside down when one of her workers’ son is murdered and two men from her past make an appearance. Who can she trust? And in how much danger is she?
This book pulls you in and doesn't spit you out until the very last page. Very much recommended.
Though still a young woman, Maureen has had to live off her own wits for far too long. But she is not as alone as she thinks. Running a successful brothel in the city, her world is turned upside down when one of her workers’ son is murdered and two men from her past make an appearance. Who can she trust? And in how much danger is she?
This book pulls you in and doesn't spit you out until the very last page. Very much recommended.
February 16, 2024
This book was very different to what I first expected.
Set in Leeds in 1977, there is a serial killer on the prowl, called the Ripper, he is killing women and people are scared. The only safe place is Rio's run by Maureen and it is a brothel.
The writing is somewhat dark and you really feel for these strong women who are scared for their lives.
I did not really resonate with the characters but it really makes you stop and think about how terrifying the actual ripper was back then.
Quite a hard and difficult read at times but I am glad that I finished this novel.
i have given this novel a 3.5 rating as for me, personally something felt lacking.
Thanks to Katy Massey, Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me a ARC in exchange for my honest opinion..
Set in Leeds in 1977, there is a serial killer on the prowl, called the Ripper, he is killing women and people are scared. The only safe place is Rio's run by Maureen and it is a brothel.
The writing is somewhat dark and you really feel for these strong women who are scared for their lives.
I did not really resonate with the characters but it really makes you stop and think about how terrifying the actual ripper was back then.
Quite a hard and difficult read at times but I am glad that I finished this novel.
i have given this novel a 3.5 rating as for me, personally something felt lacking.
Thanks to Katy Massey, Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me a ARC in exchange for my honest opinion..
March 7, 2024
The story is set in 1977 when there was a serial killer on the loose murdering sex workers, no women was safe to go out on the streets especially at night. Maureen owns Rio's which is a brothel in the heart of the city. She looks after her girls and would do anything for them but when one of them goes missing and someone from her past shows up is everything as plain sailing as it once was. It was a interesting story that is written by Katy who was inspired to write about her own experiences in this great crime story. I felt it was a great read and there are some interesting parts to this story. I had the chills reading parts of this book.
March 7, 2024
I was excited to read this and overall it was a good read and had some good twists and turns and was written well. However, I was a little put off by the fact that more time and attention was spent on characters that I felt weren't what the story should have been about. At the very beginning you learn more about the boy who died than you do the people mourning him and his mother and her colleagues who are meant to be the centre of the story. It was a little disappointing that way but otherwise overall not a bad read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2024
I loved the characters and how their relationships with each other developed (the female friendships especially). I also really enjoyed the back drop of the story as a whole with the use of the Yorkshire Ripper and the exploration around the sex working industry. Overall I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had focused more on these aspects and less on the crime / murder of the boy as I found this rather predictable and not as interesting as the lives and explorations of the characters surrounding the murder.
October 20, 2023
It is 1977 in Leeds, which is a very dangerous place to be for sex workers with the Yorkshire Ripper on the prowl. Maureen runs Rio’s, a local brothel, but still fears for herself and the girls, Bev and Annette. Maureen is fraught about who to trust as is she made to confront her past. A debut novel, the description sounded dark and gritty, which it seemed to lack in general, however still an enjoyable read.
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