The Last Light of Day

DI Jamie Johansson #8

by Morgan Greene

Detective Jamie Johansson is finally finding normality in Stockholm when a phone call from her estranged mother draws her back to the UK. The bodies of two women have been discovered in the Brecon Beacons, badly beaten and buried shallow, and rumors of a trafficking ring are swirling. But when a crucial piece of evidence is accidentally destroyed, suspicion falls on those handling the case. The National Crime Agency seizes control of the investigation, but the local police hide a vital piece of there is a third victim. And she's still alive. Jamie is thrust into the middle of the storm, allying herself with a former partner to answer the ultimate question. Who wants this girl dead, and why? Jamie vows to protect her at all costs, but the killers are determined to finish the job, and will stop at nothing to silence her before she speaks. Who can Jamie trust to help uncover the truth? And will it be enough to save the girl, and herself, before they find them?
As the last light of day begins to fade ... darkness is coming for them all. *** The Last Light Of Day is the thrilling first novel in a brand new Jamie Johansson series. Returning from Sweden to the UK as a hardened detective, Jamie is more capable than ever, and won't shy away when things get bloody. Taut and white-knuckled, The Last Light Of Day is sure to be your next UK and Welsh crime thriller obsession and is set to be the beginning of an exciting new British crime saga. Perfect for those new to the Jamie Johansson series, and readers of Angel Marsons, Simon McCleave, DS Butler, and Rachel McClean.

Genres: Audiobook, Fiction

430 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 26, 2023

About the author

Morgan Greene grew up in Wales, and works a copywriter, editor, and author. Morgan studied Creative Writing and English Literature at Swansea University with a focus on narrative structure and theory, and published the first crime novel in the Jamie Johansson series in 2020. Since its release, the series has gone on to reach bestseller status, with Detective Jamie Johansson quickly becoming a reader favourite.

The series blends classic Scandi-noir elements with modern and cinematic thriller writing to create a unique style that adds to the emerging Brit-noir genre. Jamie has many novels ahead of her, but Morgan is also working on a variety of other projects across crime, thriller, and mystery and plans to publish plenty more in 2022 and beyond.

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to Morgan Greene for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

A great fan of Morgan Greene and his DI Jamie Johansson series, I was excited to be handed an early copy of the latest book. This is another new chapter in Jamie Johansson’s life, both personal and professional. While Sweden has been an epic adventure, something is pulling her back to the UK, which turns out to be an intense adventure and a police investigation that will have international ramifications. Greene takes the reader along and pulls on some well-traversed storylines, as well as a number of new ones to keep the thriller series in check.

After a number of bumps along the road, Detective Jamie Johansson has found stability in Sweden, settling in Stockholm with a team of her own. However, all that changes where a call comes from Wales, where Jamie’s mother is seeking her assistance. The bodies of two women have turned up in Wales, badly beaten and buried in shallow graves. With her new spouse at the centre of the investigation, Jamie’s mother begs for her daughter to return to the UK and help, especially as there appears to be some corruption and cover-up in place.

When the National Crime Agency takes control of the investigation, Jamie is in Wales to sort things out in her own way. It is only then that she discovers a vital piece of evidence is being withheld from the larger investigation; a third, living, victim. Forcing to check her scruples at the door, Jamie agrees to work with a former partner from the Met in order to get to the crux of the matter.

Working to discover all she can about the young woman, Jamie discovers that there is a human trafficking ring running rampant and that young women have gone missing or died, pulled from Eastern Europe and left with some ruthless Albanians. As things get more intense, Jamie will have to decide whom she is to believe and where the corruption begins. All the while, life in Sweden looks to be a distant memory as the light of day fades and darkness envelops this case. Green does a fabulous job working all his angles to show that Jamie Johansson has what it takes to work wherever she chooses.

I have been a long-time follower of Jamie Johansson’s policing adventures, in all their permutations. Morgan Greene continues to exceed expectations by keeping these stories full of action, without being overly repetitive. The narrative of the series has adjusted well with the various setting changes, which is reflected once more, as Jamie returns to the UK for more policing. Using Wales as a backdrop, Greene has breathed more newness into the series and leaves the reader with new things to discover. Jamie’s character development continues and the reader who is well-versed in her past will see some reemergence of previous issues, as well as some new problems that will shape her personality. Jamie has never lacked for development, both professional and personally, which Greene provides with great ease. Greene layers great plot twists and multi-faceted approaches to keep the reader engaged, leaving many to wonder what this time in Wales might entail, outside this case. There is something for everyone in here and I am happy to see that Jamie is back in the UK, carving out a new niche for readers to enjoy.

Kudos, Mr. Greene, for asking me to read another stellar piece. I have followed Jamie from the start and cannot wait to see where you take her next!

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever read a Jamie Johansson novel you know what to expect. If not why not as you are missing out on a fantastic series. This book sees Jamie in Wales and the start of a new series. All I can say is WOW one of favourite female crime fighting is back with a BANG!!!!!
As I said Jamie has family problems I will not say more. She is now in Wales and is soon fighting a ruthless Albanian trafficking ring. Young girls are turning up dead and this is only the beginning. Jamie has been told to walk away but Jamie is determined to save the girls, and so with the help of friends will do whatever to save the girls and one very special little lady. I devoured this book in one sitting and finally turned the last page at 2am. Yes this book is that good. Gritty, heart breaking, action packed. A real crime thriller which deserves more than five stars. I so need the next book now Please.
Thanks to Morgan Greene for the Arc.

[Robin Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I've ever fallen in love with a writer as quickly before but Morgan Greene's talent is irresistible. He's really found a place for himself amongst the top echelons of thriller writers.
This novel is outstanding. I was totally gripped from the very first pages and found the pace and tension quite heart-pounding. The plot is dark and unsettling. The characters are drawn with razor-sharp precision and I had an abundance of empathy for Jamie, Nasir and Alina.
There is never a dull moment in this book. I could hardly turn the pages fast enough to find out what happened next but at the same time didn't want it to ever end.

[Mary Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book sees Jamie called back to Wales by her estranged mother to assist her husband who is being investigated by the NCA. I was wondering how weird it might feel seeing Jamie in a different environment than what we've become used to. The answer is not at all. Who cares where she is when Jamie is on the case?

What follows in an intense, action-packed thriller which sees Jamie teamed up with an old colleague Nasir investigating human trafficking and worse. The whole subject matter is quite dark and disturbing and I don't think I've ever seen Jamie so human and vulnerable. I really liked this side of her. Her relationship with Alina was so touching throughout. At the same time, the suspense is at max level as we don't know who can be trusted or not. I certainly flip flopped a few times. Along with the various twists along the way, the highlight for me was that Hallberg is back! The ending leaves me impatient for the next in the series but at least there's not too long to wait.

[Vikkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first read by this author, this is the first in what seems to be a very promising series. I absolutely want to read more from Mr Greene.

This book is a gem from beginning to end. I was pulled in and unwilling to put this one down. Jamie returns to help prove the innocence of her mother’s new husband which unravels an exciting and well paced plot.

This is a book that has completely transported me. I have felt as though I’ve been watching the events of this play out. This is well plotted and exciting to follow.

Jamie is a brilliant character and I have loved her. This is one feisty and determined individual. She faces up to even the most difficult situations. This is a brilliant character and she deserves more books to follow.

This is the book that has converted me as a Morgan Greene fan. I can’t wait to read more. I absolutely will be recommending this book to other readers.

[Barbara Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly a massive thank you to Morgan Greene for the advanced reader's copy. What can I say about this book apart from it is amazing, you are pulled into the story from page one. With a edge of the seat plotline I didn't want to put this book down I read in one sitting. We are back with Jamie Johansson for another brilliant case, have to say I've read all of Morgan's books to date and they just keep getting better, so much character development for Jamie Johansson over the course of the series you certainly don't get bored. If you haven't picked up one of Margan Greene's books before please do he certainly deserves to be up there with some of the best thriller writers.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just finished the ARC (thank you!) of The Last Light Of Day by Morgan Greene, having only started it this morning. What a thrilling adventure to read and I found the storyline, characters and their dynamics so compelling. Throughout the book, I kept wondering: who can Jamie trust?

When my kindle showed that I only had 1 hour read time left, I took a break as I didn't want the experience to end despite wanting/needing to know what happens.

This was my first Jamie Johansson novel and I'm excited that there's a back catalogue for me to enjoy.

The next one in the series is now on pre-order!

[Denise Rolph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for a chance to read this book.
The latest installment in the Jamie Johansson story finds her back in the uk. Having recieved a call from her mother who she hasn't spoken to in four years Jamie leaves Stockholm and finds herself in Wales. Whilst trying to help her mothers husband she soon finds herself in the middle of an investigation not knowing who she can trust.
The book has a really fast paced plot with lots of action as it tackles some difficult subject matter.
I really enjoyed the book and now I'm left wanting more and needing to know what happens next .

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another exceptional read!

I was luckily enough to receive a advance copy of this masterpiece!
I have missed Jamie, and this time she is in Walses following a call from her mother, who she is estranged from.
This book jumps right in there from the 1st page, it is twisty, dark and will have it's grip on you until you have finished it. I hate that "I couldn't put it down" as I think it's over used, but on this occasion I couldn't put it down. I needed to know what was going to happen next. I was not disappointed by this book, and neither will you.

[Kerry Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to receive this as an ARC and wow, what a fantastic read. I’m a huge Jamie fan and have read all of her exploits and was so excited about this release. I’m not going to give any spoilers because, you know, all I can say is this is another whirlwind story where you feel like you’re holding your breath for the entire ride. If you haven’t already delved into the world of Jamie Johansson, you’re not going to regret taking the leap. My suggestion would be to start in the order they were written so you can really get to know her world. Morgan Greene’s writing is such that you find yourself in that great place where you can’t stop reading but you don’t want it to end, and you feel like you’re actually in the action. I can’t wait for the next one.

[myreadingescapism · Rating 5 out of 5]

*chef's kiss 👌

[Cherry Mischievous · Rating 4 out of 5]

Armenian Catholic Church

My Thoughts:
This is not about proving that there is something wrong with the police force. That is already blatantly clear. It is about proving who it is. And, that, is proving a whole lot trickier! Because, of course, the crooked police does not want to be caught and is putting up barriers as fast as they could.

If somebody is that evil to me, I don't care if she is my mother, I would cut her out of my life. But I guess that is easier said than done.

My question is, how did the bad guys find them in the cottage in the middle of bum-fuck nowhere?

And also, when the bad guys discovered Ash and Alina in the safe house, Richard was already in custody. So, it can't be him who was the bent cop for that.

By the way, didn't they get DNA sample out of that finger with the Armenian Catholic Church ring?

There are a few little holes in the plot. Some "too stupid to live" (tstl) scenes. Like telling the older "sex slave" to go and they are now free in which she responded, "go where?". A very valid point! And the main reason she is not running out the door! For an experienced detective, Jaime ought to know the situations these sex slaves are usually in... What did Jaime expected?? That she'd just barge in with guns blazing and set the sex slaves out on the streets?? No passports. No housing. No jobs. No money. Riiiight!!!

Despite all that whinging, I do like the author's voice, though. It's compelling enough to keep me reading until the end. Not only that, to buy the next book in the series as well.

This is my first Sofia Engstrand listen and I would buy audiobooks by her again.

Quantitative Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 3.5
Story itself = 3.5
Writing Style = 3
Ending = 3.5
World building = 4
Cover art = 4
Pace = (9 hrs and 5 mins listening time)
Plot = 3
Narration = 4.5

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first light of day is the first book in a new file series involving Jamie Johansson, by author Morgan Greene. It is also the first book from this author I have read.
Jamie Johansson is currently working in Sweden when she gets a call from her estranged Mother who is currently living in Wales with her new husband who is Chief Superintendent for Dyfed-Powys Police. He has been suspended pending further investigation by the NCA. Accusing him to be corrupt and leaking information in a current case. Her mother swears he is innocent, and he has been framed and she asks her if she can come home and investigate and clear his name.
But when she arrives is not as an open and shut case as she thought. Richard is harbouring a witness in secret to the case he has been suspended from. They first think that it is regarding women trafficking. But it is more sinister than that. And the persons involved will do anything to get the girl back. Jamie with the help of an old colleague now working for NCA. Go above and beyond to find the truth.
Thank you, Morgan Greene, for an advanced reader copy. This is fantastic, action-packed thriller that will have to at the edge of your seat. The storyline was great, and I loved the feisty character of Jamie. But also, Hassan. I think they make a great team. I hope there is more of them both in the next book, which I can’t wait to read. I didn’t realise there is a previous series to this one but now I know I can’t wait to explore. 5 stars from me.

[Stacey Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie Johansson is back with a BANG!

Having read all of the previous books in this series, this has to be one of the best yet! It has everything we have come to know and love about this series, action, suspense and a cliff hanger that will leave you on the edge of your seat!

I've thoroughly enjoyed each book in the Jamie Johannson series but the last book Black Heart failed to hit the mark for me. This book however was truly amazing and was full of suspense and action from one page to another. Yet again we see Jamie involved in a hard hitting case that has some truly shocking details. Once again Jamie follows her heart and instincts, albeit breaking a few rules, to help others in need.

I love how each book shows a different side in the character development of Jamie. After 11 books you would think that there wouldn't be any legs left in the character but I feel there is still more to learn and discover about Jamie. This books brings out a maternal side to Jamie that we or she hasn't even witnessed before. It was an interesting twist and so beautifully woven in the story.

This book was hard to put down and it has all the characteristics of the earlier books in the series. The cliffhanger left you wanting to read the next book straightaway. Will Jamies survive the next storm in her life? Will she ever be able to find true happiness outside of her work?

Morgan Greene is a fantastic author and this is one book series that has been a delight to read!

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent and exciting rollercoaster ride

How would a describe the book. It started relatively gently for the first 1/3 going through setup of the story and how & why Jamie got to Wales and who she is reunited with.

Then suddenly like reaching the end of the initial climb on a rollercoaster, the storyline exploded into one dangerous situation after another as it raced through plot to dramatic ending of this part of the overall story.

This was the first Jamie Johansson books I have read but it won’t be the last. It is the first of a new arc of books and although the book did touch on previous cases of Jamie ( which I assume are covered in the earlier books) it did not detract from the story and made me want to visit those books.

I’m looking forward to continuing the story arc in the next book which the book says is out 6 weeks after this one.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really, really brilliant fast stepped thriller I read in two goes! An excellent plot, a lot of action, witty dialogues, brilliant characters! I always enjoyed Jamie's character and in this novel I felt I knew her quite well: her sense of (moral) duty rendering her reckless (according to her bosses); her loyalty , her being a loner (though..) and her fighting art make Jamie a real special woman I can't wait to meet again. Her colleagues also feel real, all characters being more shown through their actions rather than told in lengthy descriptions. This leads to being fully immersed in the plot which is what I particularly enjoy.
Six weeks before the next book, I will be there!
Thank you Morgan for sending me a complimentary digital copy of your thriller! I am very proud (and grateful) to have been reading your books from the very beginning.

[Bud Mallar · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished #7 a bit over a year ago. So there would have been memory issues about the characters and continuity, but this one kicks off a whole new series, and I did struggle with 'back' references.

Also, my memory and expectations of the prior series were of a whodunit, if I remember correctly, and this wasn't. This was high action thriller

The was the impetuous Jamie, continuously putting herself and others at risk, going way off the beaten path of normal 'police' procedures, in a new location, with an old buddy.

The first chapter is a butt grabber, but then credibility goes off the beaten path as to her involvement in the law enforcement world in England. Didn't know things could work that way.

If this is the new shift of story line and 'genre' I probably won't continue with the series after reading #9, assuming I can continue to stand Jamie's antics.

[Sarah Bloomfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive an advanced reader copy of this book and its an absolute belter!

Jamie is back with a bang but this time she is in Wales after a call from her estranged mother. What follows is a very dark and very twisty, action packed plot which does not let up til the very last page with one scene in particular being truly heart pumping!

I personally loved the change of scenery and feel it has given the Jamie series a bit of a freshen up and a while new dynamic. It was great to see a more vulnerable side of Jamie in this book too. I have a feeling some of the newer characters in this series are going to be much more complex than they are portrayed and I cannot wait to see how that is explored in the next book.

[a d bromley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very very disappointing. Shallow story line, thin characterisation (and Jamie's gets worse, very immature), and basically just one fight after another (I stopped bothering to read them in any detail and just skimmed through). The male partner was pretty much the same as all the others Jamie has had - another name, but then a rose by any other name, etc.. You'd never think MG was from Wales - it was locationally and descriptively poor, as though written by someone with an atlas/road map on their lap. Initially supposed to be late August, yet fly to Wales and it is 'high summer', with short nights, early dawns. And to cap it all, the unbearable American vocabulary. No more - that is the end of Morgan Greene for me.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, here we are meeting our kick ass MC starting a new period of her life; back in the UK having honed her skills in Sweden. Jamie Johansson is a fabulous character & this new ‘files’ series sees our feisty detective at peak ‘not giving a stuff’ attitude. I would recommend reading the previous Jamie books, she has too much backstory to dismiss it &, as a reader, you do need to understand where she has come from.

Very briefly, Jamie is now in Wales & young girls are turning up dead. Jamie is told to leave the case alone but she can’t & what ensues is an action packed & pacy story.

I’ve always loved this author’s work but I was unsure of how I would take to Jamie being back home. I needn’t have worried; this was one of my rare ‘read it in one sitting’ books. Highly recommended.

[T-J B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was lucky enough to get an advanced reader copy..thank yoooou!!!
So first off, wow! It’s always hard to put the Jamie books down, and this one was no exception. She’s back on a fantastic, fast paced case. There’s so many exciting twists and turns in this case, just when I thought I was figuring out things it would go a totally different way! Kept me on my toes and I loved even more the 3 chapters of the next book at the end.
If you love crime/thrilling reading then definitely read Morgan’s books, am so glad I picked up “the angel maker” two years ago, been hooked ever since and I guarantee you will be too.

[Lindy Protzek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive an advanced reader copy of this book and very happy I did!!

Jamie is back in all her glory but this time she is in Wales after a call from her mother. What follows is a very dark and action packed plot which doesn't stop until the very last page!

I loved the change of scenery and feel it has given Jamie a whole new look and feel. It was great to see a more vulnerable side of Jamie in this book as well. I have been anticipating some new characters and I cannot wait to see how they are explored in the next book. Looking forward to what's next.

[Annie Kosar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nail-Biting & Heart Pounding Nordic Noir Crime Thriller!!!

LOVED this one SOOOO MUCH!!:-). One of the BEST Jamie novels so far for sure!!:-). Once I started turning the pages and met Alina…I could not stop reading!!:-). Get ready to read ALL the way deep into the night once you start this one!!:-). You will have a dark ride deep into the peril of true police work and you will fall even deeper in love with Jamie as she defends those who cannot defend themselves & the writing and setting are hauntingly beautiful and will pull you right in!!:-). ADORED IT!!:-)

[Ray Bray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, What a first book.

A superb first book in the Jamie Johansson Files.

Typically it takes me one or two books to get used to a new style of writing with a new author but not with Morgan Greene. I found myself instantly at home with his style and syntax, but still found myself speed reading when it got really tense as I couldn't wait to see how things unfolded, at times I was breathless.

It was really great to be based in Wales, areas I have been to, lived and worked.

I cannot wait for book two. Awesome.

Ray Bray

[Paul Ceaggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I start?
Firstly, Morgan Greene must definitely be up there as on of the UK’s greatest thriller writers.
Secondly, such a well written book with very good characters, a great storyline made me want to read the whole book in one sitting (unfortunately, the need to sleep did overcome me), but I would definitely recommend this book to anyone, especially those with a penchant for well-plotted thrillers set in Wales.
I will definitely be reading more books by Morgan.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by Morgan Green but it certainly won't be the last, from the 1st page to the last page it had me hooked.
This book had so many heart in the mouth moments I just couldn't put it down I had to find out what happened next.
Although there are many brutal moments they fit in with the story and are not overdone. Jaime is a character that will only get better and I cannot wait to read more of her story -I think I've discovered another favourite author.

[Alan · Rating 4 out of 5]

First ever MG read. Quickly gripped and 'drawn in'. I admit I was forced to read to the end! Raises many questions about criminal activities and policing responsiveness, relevant in todays climate!
I loved the descriptions of the different areas in S. Wales. This also made the book alive for me as I could picture some of the areas described. Sometimes a 'bit wordy' hence the 4* given. But gripping and worth reading.

[Linda Salter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

I absolutely loved reading about Jamie Jamie again, though a brilliant story, this one wasn't nearly as gripping and gritty as some of the scrapes she's got herself into, however there was plenty in here to keep the pages turning, I absolutely love reading these books, thank you!

[Carole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved the setting - being in Wales. Found the storyline a bit to shallow and 'Rambo like' for me. I then discovered this was the first of two or three so I will continue. I have enjoyed most of the other stories about Jamie. The one thing I am glad about is that I can pronounce the place names!!

[Robert Craven · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really well-paced page turner. Good characterisations & a very taut plot.

Green has created a truly memorable protagonist with Jamie Johansson. She's tough, uncompromising but also a complex character.

Wales and the Welsh countryside are captured well and lift this story out of the ordinary.

Excellent