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It has been two years since psychotic undertaker Larry "Twister" Wadman disappeared after blasting two police detectives to death with an incendiary device and embarking on a murderous rampage across the Somerset Levels. For most, memories have dulled, but the sole survivor of the carnage, police sergeant Kate Hamblin, cannot forget. So when a prostitute’s body is found dumped in a coffin in Twister’s now derelict funeral parlor, dressed in a police uniform, she realizes that her old enemy is back, and out to get her. But even as a massive murder hunt is launched, it becomes evident that the deranged killer is in no hurry to make his move—he intends on having some fun first—and Twister’s idea of fun is the last thing Kate or any sane person would wish for.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2012
945 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
David Hodges
24 books56 followersA former superintendent with Thames Valley Police, with thirty years experience in the force, David Hodges is a prolific crime writer and author of twenty crime novels plus an autobiography on his life in the police service. His debut crime novel received critical media acclaim and a welcome accolade from Inspector Morse’s creator, the late great Colin Dexter, and since then he has become the author of several successful stand-alone thrillers, including BLAST, TARGET and BURNOUT, published by Lume Books (formerly Endeavour Media).
In particular, his Somerset murder series, published by Joffe Books, which is set on the mist-shrouded Somerset Levels in England and features the exploits of feisty detective, Kate, and her easy-going partner, Hayden, has gone from strength to strength. It has attracted keen interest in Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia as well as in Britain.
The first six previously published thrillers in the series are also available on Audible for sight challenged readers and those who prefer the spoken word. All David's novels are available on amazon in paperback and Kindle format.
David's latest novel in his Murder On The Levels series, SHADOWS ON THE LEVELS, was published by Joffe books on 1st January 2025, and he has now been invited to talk about his books and his 'life of crime' at the Words In Watchet Literary Festival in Somerset. This will take place at the Methodist Church, Harbour Road, Watchet, from 2.00 - 3.30 pm on Sunday 23rd February 2025 and readers and non-readers will all be very welcome. (https://www.wordsinwatchet.com)
David has two married daughters and four grandchildren and lives in the UK with his wife, Elizabeth, where he continues to indulge his passion for thriller writing and to pursue his keen interest in wild life and the countryside.
He is a member of the Society of Authors, The Crime Writers Association, The Crime Readers Association and International Thriller Writers Inc.
In particular, his Somerset murder series, published by Joffe Books, which is set on the mist-shrouded Somerset Levels in England and features the exploits of feisty detective, Kate, and her easy-going partner, Hayden, has gone from strength to strength. It has attracted keen interest in Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia as well as in Britain.
The first six previously published thrillers in the series are also available on Audible for sight challenged readers and those who prefer the spoken word. All David's novels are available on amazon in paperback and Kindle format.
David's latest novel in his Murder On The Levels series, SHADOWS ON THE LEVELS, was published by Joffe books on 1st January 2025, and he has now been invited to talk about his books and his 'life of crime' at the Words In Watchet Literary Festival in Somerset. This will take place at the Methodist Church, Harbour Road, Watchet, from 2.00 - 3.30 pm on Sunday 23rd February 2025 and readers and non-readers will all be very welcome. (https://www.wordsinwatchet.com)
David has two married daughters and four grandchildren and lives in the UK with his wife, Elizabeth, where he continues to indulge his passion for thriller writing and to pursue his keen interest in wild life and the countryside.
He is a member of the Society of Authors, The Crime Writers Association, The Crime Readers Association and International Thriller Writers Inc.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 21, 2022
Requiem
by David Hodges has since been retitled
Revenge on the Levels
. It is the second book in the Kate Hamblin Mystery Series. This police procedural is well-done and the author’s experience as a former superintendent with the Thames Valley Police gives it authenticity and results in a realistic read.
Police sergeant Kate Hamblin is the sole survivor of a serial killing spree two years ago that left several people dead including two police detectives killed with an incendiary device that also injured Kate. The killer, Larry “Twister” Wadman disappeared, but when a body is found in Twister’s old business, Kate soon realizes that he’s back and he’s after her. However, he likes to play twisted games that are sure to keep the police busy.
Kate is feisty, intelligent, and determined to survive. Her partner in life, Hayden is also with the police. He is more easy-going and provides balance to Kate. Both of them are relatable and likeable, but I did not see a lot of character growth during the course of the novel. While we get glimpses of the events two years ago and how it has affected Kate, we don’t get the backstories of Hayden or most of the secondary characters.
On the other hand, the plot is dynamic, with lots of suspense incorporated into the police investigation. This suspense intensifies as the killer’s games escalate and he gets closer to his end-game revenge. Will you see the twist at the end coming, or will you be surprised?
Overall, this book was suspenseful and fast-paced. It certainly exceeded my expectations for a book that I purchased on clearance. I would like to read the other books in the series.
Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was January 1, 2012.
Police sergeant Kate Hamblin is the sole survivor of a serial killing spree two years ago that left several people dead including two police detectives killed with an incendiary device that also injured Kate. The killer, Larry “Twister” Wadman disappeared, but when a body is found in Twister’s old business, Kate soon realizes that he’s back and he’s after her. However, he likes to play twisted games that are sure to keep the police busy.
Kate is feisty, intelligent, and determined to survive. Her partner in life, Hayden is also with the police. He is more easy-going and provides balance to Kate. Both of them are relatable and likeable, but I did not see a lot of character growth during the course of the novel. While we get glimpses of the events two years ago and how it has affected Kate, we don’t get the backstories of Hayden or most of the secondary characters.
On the other hand, the plot is dynamic, with lots of suspense incorporated into the police investigation. This suspense intensifies as the killer’s games escalate and he gets closer to his end-game revenge. Will you see the twist at the end coming, or will you be surprised?
Overall, this book was suspenseful and fast-paced. It certainly exceeded my expectations for a book that I purchased on clearance. I would like to read the other books in the series.
Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was January 1, 2012.
May 21, 2019
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS BOOK WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED AS REQUIEM
It's been two years since the serial killer, known as Twister, disappeared after he attempted to kill DI Kate Hamblin. He hasn't been heard from since.
Until now ........
A prostitute's body is found in an otherwise empty coffin. She greatly resembles Kate, including the police uniform she's wearing.
Twister is back and he wants Kate to know he's coming after her to finish what he started. Now if she can only get her supervisors to see what's in front of their faces.
This is a well written crime fiction with action-packed suspense from start to finish. There are twists and turns along the way and then there's the huge twist which boggles the mind. The author, himself a former police superintendent, brings his 30 years of experience embedding this story and the finely drawn characters with credibility.
Kate is a terrific series character. She's feisty, she's strong, she's determined. I like how her professional and personal lives meld to showcase her as a fully defined woman. The ending is explosive ....
Tick, Tock ....
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books 'n All Book Promotions for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
June 20, 2019
Book 2
This is book 2 in the 'Levels' series it should work as stand-alone but I think you would be better reading book 1 first.
Kate Hamblin .is picking up the pieces of her life after Twister tried many times to kill her. A call comes in of a break in at the funeral directors which was Twisters home. What they found there shocks Kate to her very core. Twister is back to finish what he started Kate's life is in danger again.
The characters continue to develop and new ones are introduced following the retirement of Callow. Sharpe takes more of a main part in this book as we learn what a slimey trouble causer he is.
As the team try to track down Twister a psychologist is brought in to profile the killer and help the police.
Relationships under pressure, dead ends and twists and turns kept the pages turning.
I did work out who Twister was early on but I had to keep reading to see if I was right. There were several parts that didn't quite work for me but overall it was a very good read.
This is book 2 in the 'Levels' series it should work as stand-alone but I think you would be better reading book 1 first.
Kate Hamblin .is picking up the pieces of her life after Twister tried many times to kill her. A call comes in of a break in at the funeral directors which was Twisters home. What they found there shocks Kate to her very core. Twister is back to finish what he started Kate's life is in danger again.
The characters continue to develop and new ones are introduced following the retirement of Callow. Sharpe takes more of a main part in this book as we learn what a slimey trouble causer he is.
As the team try to track down Twister a psychologist is brought in to profile the killer and help the police.
Relationships under pressure, dead ends and twists and turns kept the pages turning.
I did work out who Twister was early on but I had to keep reading to see if I was right. There were several parts that didn't quite work for me but overall it was a very good read.
August 27, 2019
Revenge on the Levels is book two in the Detective Kate Hamblin mystery series by David Hodges. Kate Hamblin caught a case of woman body found in a coffin. For Kate, this case brought back memories of an incident that happened two years before. At first, Kate's bosses did not believe that Twister has come back for revenge against Kate until an event occur that woke management up to the possibility. The readers will follow Detective Kate Hamblin investigation to find out what happens.
Revenge on the Levels is the first book I have read of David Hodges, and I enjoyed reading this book. The way David Hodges portrayed his characters excellently done and I like the interaction between the characters that ensure that I engage with them and the plot of this book. Revenge on the Levels was well written and researched by David Hodges. I enjoyed David Hodges descriptions of the setting of Revenge on the Levels.
The readers of Revenge on the Levels will learn about the consequences for everyone involved about, greed, jealousy and revenge. Also, the readers of Revenge on the Levels will learn about police investigations in the County of Somerset.
I recommend this book.
Revenge on the Levels is the first book I have read of David Hodges, and I enjoyed reading this book. The way David Hodges portrayed his characters excellently done and I like the interaction between the characters that ensure that I engage with them and the plot of this book. Revenge on the Levels was well written and researched by David Hodges. I enjoyed David Hodges descriptions of the setting of Revenge on the Levels.
The readers of Revenge on the Levels will learn about the consequences for everyone involved about, greed, jealousy and revenge. Also, the readers of Revenge on the Levels will learn about police investigations in the County of Somerset.
I recommend this book.
October 10, 2023
3.5 stars
Revenge on the Levels is the second instalment in the Kate Hamlin Mystery series and, in my opinion, it was much better than the first book. Kate annoyed me in Murder on the Levels but in this novel she behaved more believably and was feisty, intelligent and determined to catch the Twister.
Full of twists and turns, action, frustration and tension as the killer’s games escalate, I found myself totally involved in the police investigation although I did have a suspicion where the plot was going. I am now looking forward to reading Fear on the Levels.
Revenge on the Levels is the second instalment in the Kate Hamlin Mystery series and, in my opinion, it was much better than the first book. Kate annoyed me in Murder on the Levels but in this novel she behaved more believably and was feisty, intelligent and determined to catch the Twister.
Full of twists and turns, action, frustration and tension as the killer’s games escalate, I found myself totally involved in the police investigation although I did have a suspicion where the plot was going. I am now looking forward to reading Fear on the Levels.
July 18, 2019
Wow, wow, wow. Fantastic follow up the the first book, amazing jaw dropping twists.
December 23, 2024
This was the second story in the box set I have and it was another cat and mouse thriller where the past comes back for more.
Well written with suitable characters (not many likeable) and a twisty plot. Great tension and suspense.
Cleverly done.
Recommended.
Well written with suitable characters (not many likeable) and a twisty plot. Great tension and suspense.
Cleverly done.
Recommended.
August 24, 2019
I never really leave reviews but after giving this book a 1 star, I felt I had to explain why. Being from Somerset, I was intrigued by this book upon finding it on Kindle. After I read it though i was left disappointed. Not the best writing but I believe it was still a interesting story. I hoped the poor writing was down to being a first time author. Sadly after picking up this one it does seem to be a trend. Apart from the odd spelling it's the 'lingo' of the characters that put me off. I don't like saying negative things about peoples work but i just felt let down from what could of been a really good book.
January 9, 2024
The Raven's Mark by Christie J. Newport is a definite surprise that exceeded my expectations. At first, I found the lead character to be a little annoying. As a team leader in a police procedural, I expected her to be focused on solving the crime. However, she came across as inexperienced, constantly breaking the rules, making incorrect assumptions, and working alone. Her biggest flaw was withholding crucial information and taking actions that should have led to her demise. I still can't comprehend how she managed to survive without sufficient explanation.
Moreover, I found it hard to believe that she hadn't delved into her mother's death and family background during her early days on the force. The sudden revelation of this aspect felt forced and made her appear out of control in her personal and professional life. In reality, she wouldn't have been able to maintain her rank and level of responsibility due to her immaturity. I also felt that the character lacked any self-awareness regarding the repercussions of her actions and instead blamed her boss for being controlling.
Despite these criticisms of the lead character, the story itself was gripping and filled with thrilling twists and turns. The pacing was slow initially, resembling a typical police procedural, but it picks up significantly after the first 25% of the book, transforming into a thrilling and intense mystery. The author does an excellent job of keeping the reader on the edge of their seat, unable to put the book down.
I must warn potential readers that this book is not for the faint of heart. It contains graphic descriptions of violence, including rape, abuse, and gruesome murders. The cover, while aesthetically pleasing, does not accurately represent the dark and intense nature of the story. It might attract female mystery lovers, but I believe many male readers would overlook it, despite the mayhem and mystery found within.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by The Raven's Mark. It managed to capture my attention despite my initial doubts, and I'm intrigued to see where the series goes from here. I hope that the author continues to incorporate the CSI aspect while toning down the level of gruesomeness. I would like to thank NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book, allowing me to discover this thrilling read.
Moreover, I found it hard to believe that she hadn't delved into her mother's death and family background during her early days on the force. The sudden revelation of this aspect felt forced and made her appear out of control in her personal and professional life. In reality, she wouldn't have been able to maintain her rank and level of responsibility due to her immaturity. I also felt that the character lacked any self-awareness regarding the repercussions of her actions and instead blamed her boss for being controlling.
Despite these criticisms of the lead character, the story itself was gripping and filled with thrilling twists and turns. The pacing was slow initially, resembling a typical police procedural, but it picks up significantly after the first 25% of the book, transforming into a thrilling and intense mystery. The author does an excellent job of keeping the reader on the edge of their seat, unable to put the book down.
I must warn potential readers that this book is not for the faint of heart. It contains graphic descriptions of violence, including rape, abuse, and gruesome murders. The cover, while aesthetically pleasing, does not accurately represent the dark and intense nature of the story. It might attract female mystery lovers, but I believe many male readers would overlook it, despite the mayhem and mystery found within.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by The Raven's Mark. It managed to capture my attention despite my initial doubts, and I'm intrigued to see where the series goes from here. I hope that the author continues to incorporate the CSI aspect while toning down the level of gruesomeness. I would like to thank NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book, allowing me to discover this thrilling read.
June 15, 2020
I enjoyed the plot, and the characters (on the whole) behaved in a more believable way this time around. I didn’t see twist coming, so I loved the shock-factor! Unfortunately, there are just a few small issues within the book that means I can’t give it a higher rating. First of all, I can’t understand why so many people hate Kate- Callow in the first book and Sharp in this one. I find the ‘Oh, I’m so pretty and clever and people hate me for it!’ shtick so boring. A second jarring theme for me was the (in my opinion) totally unneeded comments about Callow being a lesbian. ‘...as she faced the twisted lesbian’, ‘...had she shacked up with another lesbian lover.’ I said in my review for the first book that I didn’t like the way that Callow’s being a lesbian seemed intertwined with the reason she was an antagonist, but at least in the first book there was kind of a reason for making it obvious she was a lesbian (I don’t want to include spoilers for that one here just in case, but if you’ve read the book then you’ll know), but in this one there was no need for it to be explicitly stated, and not with the negative connotations.
Aside from that, the narrative at the beginning didn’t pull me in immediately; in fact I actually stopped reading and read two other books in the meantime! But once the ante was upped, I was hooked and read the remaining 75% in two sittings.
Aside from that, the narrative at the beginning didn’t pull me in immediately; in fact I actually stopped reading and read two other books in the meantime! But once the ante was upped, I was hooked and read the remaining 75% in two sittings.
June 24, 2019
This is the follow-on from Murder on the Levels. Two years have passed and Detective Kate Hamblin hopes that 'Twister', the man who murdered her two companions when they were on surveillance, has died from the wounds inflicted on him at the end of the first novel. But, there is a break-in at the now-derelict funeral parlour owned by Twister where the body of a prostitute -dressed in a police uniform- is found in a coffin. Kate knows that Twister is back and after her but she has great difficulties trying to persuade senior officers that this is the case.
Once again, Kate breaks every rule in the book to try and prove that Twister is killing again and that she is in grave danger, ably helped by her partner Haydn. I found him slightly irritating in the first book but he is growing on me and I can now ignore his 'old girl' comments. He is obviously in love with Kate but she is too busy to notice.
There are more murders and many twists before we get to the end of this story but I have to say that I enjoyed every word and had to satisfy my hunger for more by reading the next two novels in the series. An author to look out for!
Once again, Kate breaks every rule in the book to try and prove that Twister is killing again and that she is in grave danger, ably helped by her partner Haydn. I found him slightly irritating in the first book but he is growing on me and I can now ignore his 'old girl' comments. He is obviously in love with Kate but she is too busy to notice.
There are more murders and many twists before we get to the end of this story but I have to say that I enjoyed every word and had to satisfy my hunger for more by reading the next two novels in the series. An author to look out for!
February 6, 2021
Although I had read the first in the series it was sometime ago, so I found I needed to go back and skim through as a reminder. This book is a stand alone but makes much more sense if you have read the first book. Mr. Hodge is an excellent writer and this book holds you from the start. The relationships between the characters seems very real and i felt as if I was in the room with them. I was also sure I had guessed who the bad guy was about half way through but decided it couldn't be him for various reasons. So I was delighted to find I had been right, which is very unusual for me, I rarely see the bad guy coming. Happily there are 5 more in the series (I think) so I have my next few reads ready for me.
October 10, 2020
This book starts off at exactly the same relentlessly tense level as it’s predecessor. It never lets up. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that holds the tension like this. I found myself worrying for every other character in the book that encounters Twister the evil villain of the piece. I love the locations as I happen to live nearby, both my husband and I are former police officers and it’s easy to tell that the author is too. I won’t say anything about the plot it would spoil it, just get yourself a copy of Murder on the Levels book 1 in the series, if you like a murder mystery you will love this.
June 1, 2019
Mystery
This second in a series of 4 novels was much better than the first. A killer from previous crime comes back to kill Kate. This novel was truly a fascinating story with lots of twists and turns. I did not figure out the ending which I usually do. I will definitely continue to read the series.
This second in a series of 4 novels was much better than the first. A killer from previous crime comes back to kill Kate. This novel was truly a fascinating story with lots of twists and turns. I did not figure out the ending which I usually do. I will definitely continue to read the series.
June 30, 2019
Highbridge police station has many issues, incompetency , sexism, the old guard versus the new and that's not mentioning the serial killer on the loose. They know who he is, just not where. At one point I thought I'd hear beeps like an episode of 24. I shall be duly reading the next instalment soon.
September 18, 2019
I'll give it five!!!😁
Great read this book,a fast flowing read,plenty of action and characters and quite gruesome in parts.It is book two of the series which I will go back to at sometime,although it goes back the storyline, so it keep you in the know of what went on before.I have read a few of the authors books just lately all being excellent , decriptive and easy to read.☺☺
Great read this book,a fast flowing read,plenty of action and characters and quite gruesome in parts.It is book two of the series which I will go back to at sometime,although it goes back the storyline, so it keep you in the know of what went on before.I have read a few of the authors books just lately all being excellent , decriptive and easy to read.☺☺
September 26, 2019
Excellent books by D. Hodges. I am now moving on to book 3 and loving every story line so far. Well written and they certainly make it very hard for you to stop reading. A lot of twists and turns and great page turner situations but most of all surprising endings especially in book 1.
WOW.
Michele Zito
WOW.
Michele Zito
January 19, 2023
This is the second story in this series and follows on some two years after book one ended, and the 'Twister' is back, planning revenge and tying up loose ends, and our brave clever heroine is one of them. Well written Police procedural with superb characters throughout. Plenty of surprises and twists along the way.
Completely recommended.
Completely recommended.
July 2, 2019
Gripping for sure
Twister is back two years after the fateful explosion that killed two police officers and missed Kate . This book shows the truly twisted mind of twister . Oh, Roz Callen makes an appearance . Kate and Hayden are finally together . What will happen ?
Twister is back two years after the fateful explosion that killed two police officers and missed Kate . This book shows the truly twisted mind of twister . Oh, Roz Callen makes an appearance . Kate and Hayden are finally together . What will happen ?
July 2, 2019
Gripping
I didn't rate the first Levels book as I wasn't sure but knew I'd read the next. I'm glad I did. I couldn't put it down! Great characters. Really good story line. Unfortunately I sussed the plot. Unusual for me. Definitely going to read more.
I didn't rate the first Levels book as I wasn't sure but knew I'd read the next. I'm glad I did. I couldn't put it down! Great characters. Really good story line. Unfortunately I sussed the plot. Unusual for me. Definitely going to read more.
July 27, 2019
Another great story
Another great story and a good follow up to the first story in the Levels series. Good strong characters and plenty of action with lots of twists and turns. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
Another great story and a good follow up to the first story in the Levels series. Good strong characters and plenty of action with lots of twists and turns. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
November 7, 2019
Wow!
This was an engrossing thriller of a book! I had an inkling of an idea about the killer but I could never have imagined the ending! I highly recommend this book. Be prepared to read through the night!
This was an engrossing thriller of a book! I had an inkling of an idea about the killer but I could never have imagined the ending! I highly recommend this book. Be prepared to read through the night!
October 17, 2020
Part IN of the twisted gambling saga
After a couple of years twisted is back. A gripping story with many twists. The reader is kept enthralled an eager resulting in the pages being continually turned.
After a couple of years twisted is back. A gripping story with many twists. The reader is kept enthralled an eager resulting in the pages being continually turned.
December 10, 2023
OK, so I read the first one and thought it wasn't too bad at all, but this one was just awful .. improbable scenarios and clichés galore. If there really are police somewhere that are as incompetent, slapdash and ineffective as this lot, then I pity the people they're meant to be protecting.
May 27, 2019
Brilliant just brilliant, again I didn’t see that coming !
July 3, 2019
Kate Hamblin
July 11, 2019
Gripping Story
Loved it! Can't wait to read Book 3. Thank you David Hodges for another gripping story that I couldn't put down until I'd finished reading it.
Loved it! Can't wait to read Book 3. Thank you David Hodges for another gripping story that I couldn't put down until I'd finished reading it.
July 14, 2019
Whew!!
Wow what a heart pounder! Of course going in it’s obvious Twister is not yet done but the twists and turns are heart stopping to the end. Excitement to the end!
Wow what a heart pounder! Of course going in it’s obvious Twister is not yet done but the twists and turns are heart stopping to the end. Excitement to the end!
July 16, 2019
Excellent!!!
A fast-paced story, read in one sitting. Love the different characters, but really enjoyed the storytelling and commonalities between some of the team. A great read🚁🚁
A fast-paced story, read in one sitting. Love the different characters, but really enjoyed the storytelling and commonalities between some of the team. A great read🚁🚁
July 19, 2019
Good mystery
Enjoyed the story very much.. Action packed, it held my attention. Recommend to mystery lovers. A good read for all.
Enjoyed the story very much.. Action packed, it held my attention. Recommend to mystery lovers. A good read for all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews