Old scores need to be settled. A woman hurries her kids to a rendezvous with the child minder. She won’t see home again. For Detective Inspector Michael Chard, this is his first murder case as lead investigator, and it would come now, in the face of police cuts, with the old station itself under threat of closure, and with his career winding down. It’s hard enough to staff the ranks let alone keep up morale. Will he solve this brutal crime before he loses his job; before factions start looking for revenge? And what about the kids?
If you’re not interested in a book play-by-play skip to the last part of the review!
"Rache" by Robert Bayley took me on an unexpected and thrilling journey. When I started this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect. It was a chance discovery in a Goodreads group, and I decided to dive in without reading the blurb or checking the genre. I relied solely on the cover to set my expectations. So, imagine my surprise when, just three pages in, I encountered a gripping and horrifying scene that had me instantly hooked.
This novel introduces us to Detective Inspector Michael Chard, who finds himself facing a murder case as the lead investigator. It's a challenging situation, compounded by police cuts, an undermanned station, and the looming threat of the station closure. Chard is at a crossroads in his career, and the pressure is on to solve this brutal crime before he loses his job.
What I appreciate most about "Rache" is its ability to subvert expectations and deliver a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The story is a masterclass in suspense and tension, expertly crafted to keep readers guessing. Robert Bayley's writing style is both engaging and immersive, making it impossible to put the book down once you've started.
While this book dives into the complexities of a murder investigation, it also explores the personal lives of the characters, adding depth to the story. The emotional and psychological aspects of the characters make them relatable and human, further drawing you into the narrative.
“Rache" is a five-star read that defied my initial assumptions and left me thoroughly impressed. If you're a fan of crime thrillers that are as emotionally charged as they are suspenseful, this book is a must-read. Robert Bayley's storytelling prowess shines brightly, and I look forward to more from this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Rache (pronounced Rakke), set on the rugged coastline of Cornwall, is one of the most thrilling books I’ve read in a long time. The characters come to life with such detail that you feel compelled to read on as various factions collide over the gruesome crime. The first chapter sets the scene. Whilst graphically violent, it plays out through the detached lens of the perpetrator with his logical sense of revenge. The flow of the story line is exceptional, keeping you gripped as each character pursues their own objectives. It also highlights the detrimental effects of cut backs in vital services, as DI Michael Chard leads his depleted and demoralised team in the investigation. I particularly liked how the author tied together the multi-layered story line with intricate timing allowing the reader to visualise the unfolding events alongside the characters themselves. This story easily lends itself to being a TV mini-series adaptation. The attention to detail is brilliant. This is a solid read that had me hooked from start to finish and left me wanting more. I would definitely look forward to reading a sequel. Highly recommended.