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DI Alex Finn #5
The Cold Case
Someone got away with murder... But time's up.
2009:
During a summer heatwave, teenagers are going missing. Junior officer Alex Finn takes the case and fears that the disappearances are linked.
In a race against the clock to find and rescue the children alive, Finn and his team are only partially successful. Two of the children are saved, but they were too late for Oliver.
And the killer got away.
2023: DI Alex Finn is still tormented by the cases of his youth - none more than so than the 2009 kidnappings.
And it seems someone else has not forgotten either. They want answers after all this time, and with a gun in their pocket and their sights set on Alex...
2009:
During a summer heatwave, teenagers are going missing. Junior officer Alex Finn takes the case and fears that the disappearances are linked.
In a race against the clock to find and rescue the children alive, Finn and his team are only partially successful. Two of the children are saved, but they were too late for Oliver.
And the killer got away.
2023: DI Alex Finn is still tormented by the cases of his youth - none more than so than the 2009 kidnappings.
And it seems someone else has not forgotten either. They want answers after all this time, and with a gun in their pocket and their sights set on Alex...
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2023
77 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Will Shindler
12 books129 followersWill Shindler has been a Broadcast Journalist for the BBC for over twenty-five years, spending a decade working in television drama as a scriptwriter on Born and Bred, The Bill and Doctors.
You can currently find him every weekday on the radio reading the news headlines, whilst writing crime novels in the afternoon. Will has previously worked as a television presenter for HTV, a sports reporter for BBC Radio Five Live, and one of the stadium presenters at the London Olympics.
His debut novel, The Burning Men, will be published by Hodder.
You can currently find him every weekday on the radio reading the news headlines, whilst writing crime novels in the afternoon. Will has previously worked as a television presenter for HTV, a sports reporter for BBC Radio Five Live, and one of the stadium presenters at the London Olympics.
His debut novel, The Burning Men, will be published by Hodder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 25, 2025
The brand new addition to Will Schindler’s DI Alex Finn series, is an example of how to write great police procedurals.
It’s the summer of 2009 and the UK is suffering a rare and excessive heatwave, when an eighteen year old boy and girl, friends from the same school, are kidnapped in broad daylight, this follows on from a similar recent case of an eighteen year old boy going missing in the same area - he appeared to vanish into thin air.
Present day and its winter time, and DI Alex Finn and his colleagues are trying to come to terms with the loss of a colleague on duty. It’s hit them all hard, but they need to get themselves together for what will be a truly difficult and distressing case with similarities to the 2009 cases - however, the man convicted of those cases, and who admitted his guilt is now dead!
The past and the present come together to produce a gripping addition to this terrific series. Alex makes for a wonderful protagonist, the storyline is sharp and gritty and I love the relationship between him and DS Mattie Paulsen, although Paulsen herself is having difficulty coming to terms with the new DC Vanessa Nash, and makes Nash’s first day on the team very uncomfortable, but she proves her worth. Another exceptionally good read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder and Stoughton for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
It’s the summer of 2009 and the UK is suffering a rare and excessive heatwave, when an eighteen year old boy and girl, friends from the same school, are kidnapped in broad daylight, this follows on from a similar recent case of an eighteen year old boy going missing in the same area - he appeared to vanish into thin air.
Present day and its winter time, and DI Alex Finn and his colleagues are trying to come to terms with the loss of a colleague on duty. It’s hit them all hard, but they need to get themselves together for what will be a truly difficult and distressing case with similarities to the 2009 cases - however, the man convicted of those cases, and who admitted his guilt is now dead!
The past and the present come together to produce a gripping addition to this terrific series. Alex makes for a wonderful protagonist, the storyline is sharp and gritty and I love the relationship between him and DS Mattie Paulsen, although Paulsen herself is having difficulty coming to terms with the new DC Vanessa Nash, and makes Nash’s first day on the team very uncomfortable, but she proves her worth. Another exceptionally good read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder and Stoughton for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
August 30, 2023
4.5 stars
In the high heat of the summer of 2009, there’s a terrifying kidnap of an 18-year-old girl and boy which follows closely on the heels of another 18-year-old having been taken a couple of weeks earlier.
It’s winter and the present day and DI Alex Finn and his team are still struggling with the loss of a colleague a few months earlier. When a call comes in concerning the body of a dead female, the past and the present collide for Alex. This develops into an incredibly difficult case in a multitude of ways and Alex is about to learn a hard life lesson.
The latest in this stellar series has a very thought-provoking premise of threads that connect lives, be they tenuous or otherwise, and of being anchored in the past. Alex certainly is, it’s not just recent events that haunt him, but so has the 2009 original case. The two timelines fuse well and I especially enjoy how you feel the heat in more ways than one of the 2009 inquiry which contrasts so well with the depths of winter chills of the present day.
Alex is an excellent central protagonist
but he is surrounded by equally good characters. He’s definitely not run-of-the-mill, he’s deep, he’s suffered, he’s carrying burdens but as a policeman he is thorough and intuitive, which is a fascinating combination. DS Mattie Paulsen, DCI John Skegman are also terrific characters and we are introduced to DC Vanessa Nash on whom the jury is initially out, but to whom I later warm. In the 2009 timeline DCI/AC Culley could have numerous words ascribed to him and none would be pleasant.
This is a dramatic storyline from the get go and it’s a hard novel to put down. It’s raw, gritty and emotional with the danger levels set high, and of course many plot twists to keep you glued. There is an excellent red herring towards the end, nicely played Will Shindler as I so happily bought into it! The ever changing plot is fast paced, it’s exciting and there are shocking revelations and some tragedy to get to grips with. It’s very good at looking at the impact of crime on a victim and on the victim’s family and this is woven well into the storytelling. I also enjoy Karin’s inclusion (Alex’s late wife) and it sheds some light on their relationship. The ending is good and it feels absolutely right.
Overall, another cracking read which I enjoy very much. I highly recommend this well written series.
With thanks to NetGalley, and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
In the high heat of the summer of 2009, there’s a terrifying kidnap of an 18-year-old girl and boy which follows closely on the heels of another 18-year-old having been taken a couple of weeks earlier.
It’s winter and the present day and DI Alex Finn and his team are still struggling with the loss of a colleague a few months earlier. When a call comes in concerning the body of a dead female, the past and the present collide for Alex. This develops into an incredibly difficult case in a multitude of ways and Alex is about to learn a hard life lesson.
The latest in this stellar series has a very thought-provoking premise of threads that connect lives, be they tenuous or otherwise, and of being anchored in the past. Alex certainly is, it’s not just recent events that haunt him, but so has the 2009 original case. The two timelines fuse well and I especially enjoy how you feel the heat in more ways than one of the 2009 inquiry which contrasts so well with the depths of winter chills of the present day.
Alex is an excellent central protagonist
but he is surrounded by equally good characters. He’s definitely not run-of-the-mill, he’s deep, he’s suffered, he’s carrying burdens but as a policeman he is thorough and intuitive, which is a fascinating combination. DS Mattie Paulsen, DCI John Skegman are also terrific characters and we are introduced to DC Vanessa Nash on whom the jury is initially out, but to whom I later warm. In the 2009 timeline DCI/AC Culley could have numerous words ascribed to him and none would be pleasant.
This is a dramatic storyline from the get go and it’s a hard novel to put down. It’s raw, gritty and emotional with the danger levels set high, and of course many plot twists to keep you glued. There is an excellent red herring towards the end, nicely played Will Shindler as I so happily bought into it! The ever changing plot is fast paced, it’s exciting and there are shocking revelations and some tragedy to get to grips with. It’s very good at looking at the impact of crime on a victim and on the victim’s family and this is woven well into the storytelling. I also enjoy Karin’s inclusion (Alex’s late wife) and it sheds some light on their relationship. The ending is good and it feels absolutely right.
Overall, another cracking read which I enjoy very much. I highly recommend this well written series.
With thanks to NetGalley, and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
April 11, 2025
Will Shindler remains determined to capture the attention of the reader with this gritty series. DI Alex Finn was haunted by a case that slipped through his fingers years ago. When a handful of missing teens are found, one is dead. Now, one of the rescued teens turns up dead and DI Finn is on the case, wondering if it might have been foul play. Could the killer have emerged again to tie up loose ends? Might this be a chance for DI Finn to bring some closure to a case that left him feeling ill? Shindler balances last and present in this gripping thriller!
A hot summer sees a number of teenagers go missing and DS Alex Finn works the case. It’s 2009 and Finn keeps trying to draw a connection between the teens, only to draw a blank. When two teens are recovered and one is found dead, Finn cannot help but think he should have worked harder, which might have helped save the life of one teen. This case slipped through his fingers and proves to Finn the importance of weighing every piece of evidence.
While he rose through the ranks, this case always ate away at Finn and while it went cold for many, he’s never forgotten it. All this comes crashing into the present when one of the teens from 2009 is found dead after a blow to the head. DI Finn and his team are called to the scene, bringing the cold case back from the periphery. DI Finn remembers everything he forgot to do and is determined to miss nothing this time around. His attempts to share the news with the other teenage victim from 2009 goes sour and DI Finn finds himself in a hostage situation with a man who is anything but calm.
With a killer on the loose and DI Finn locked up with a man who is emotionally at the end of his rope, the investigating turns to DS Mattie Paulsen and others. Sifting through clues and options, DS Paulsen begins to feel as though this is a game of cat and mouse fifteen years in the making, with her superior in the crosshairs. The abductions in the past offer new insights that are just as troubling, but which help explain the current revival with some certainty. Shindler delivers a great story that provides readers with another stellar thriller.
I enjoy all types of police procedurals, particularly those with approaches I might not have considered previously. Will Shindler presents a solid narrative that proves intense from the outset. The story leaves the reader flipping pages and timelines for answers well into the night, as questions become plentiful. Shindler concocts characters who fit perfectly into the story and its nuances. DI Finn has a past that comes to light with flashback chapters filled with insights, while DS Mattie Paulsen provides some independence that could prove useful as the series progresses. Plot points keep the story unpredictable at times, yet on a straight pathway for success. Shindler did well creating this piece and has me eager to see when the next publication will occur.
Kudos, Mr. Shindler, for a great addition to the series.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A hot summer sees a number of teenagers go missing and DS Alex Finn works the case. It’s 2009 and Finn keeps trying to draw a connection between the teens, only to draw a blank. When two teens are recovered and one is found dead, Finn cannot help but think he should have worked harder, which might have helped save the life of one teen. This case slipped through his fingers and proves to Finn the importance of weighing every piece of evidence.
While he rose through the ranks, this case always ate away at Finn and while it went cold for many, he’s never forgotten it. All this comes crashing into the present when one of the teens from 2009 is found dead after a blow to the head. DI Finn and his team are called to the scene, bringing the cold case back from the periphery. DI Finn remembers everything he forgot to do and is determined to miss nothing this time around. His attempts to share the news with the other teenage victim from 2009 goes sour and DI Finn finds himself in a hostage situation with a man who is anything but calm.
With a killer on the loose and DI Finn locked up with a man who is emotionally at the end of his rope, the investigating turns to DS Mattie Paulsen and others. Sifting through clues and options, DS Paulsen begins to feel as though this is a game of cat and mouse fifteen years in the making, with her superior in the crosshairs. The abductions in the past offer new insights that are just as troubling, but which help explain the current revival with some certainty. Shindler delivers a great story that provides readers with another stellar thriller.
I enjoy all types of police procedurals, particularly those with approaches I might not have considered previously. Will Shindler presents a solid narrative that proves intense from the outset. The story leaves the reader flipping pages and timelines for answers well into the night, as questions become plentiful. Shindler concocts characters who fit perfectly into the story and its nuances. DI Finn has a past that comes to light with flashback chapters filled with insights, while DS Mattie Paulsen provides some independence that could prove useful as the series progresses. Plot points keep the story unpredictable at times, yet on a straight pathway for success. Shindler did well creating this piece and has me eager to see when the next publication will occur.
Kudos, Mr. Shindler, for a great addition to the series.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 29, 2023
#TheColdCase #NetGalley
Awesome
During a summer heatwave, teenagers are going missing. Junior officer Alex Finn takes the case and fears that the disappearances are linked. In a race against the clock to find and rescue the children alive, Finn and his team are only partially successful. Two of the children are saved, but they were too late for Oliver.
And the killer got away.
DI Alex Finn is still tormented by the cases of his youth - none more than so than the 2009 kidnappings. And it seems someone else has not forgotten either. They want answers after all this time, and with a gun in their pocket and their sights set on Alex, they'll do anything to get what they're after...
Loved it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder Stoughton for giving me an advance copy.
Awesome
During a summer heatwave, teenagers are going missing. Junior officer Alex Finn takes the case and fears that the disappearances are linked. In a race against the clock to find and rescue the children alive, Finn and his team are only partially successful. Two of the children are saved, but they were too late for Oliver.
And the killer got away.
DI Alex Finn is still tormented by the cases of his youth - none more than so than the 2009 kidnappings. And it seems someone else has not forgotten either. They want answers after all this time, and with a gun in their pocket and their sights set on Alex, they'll do anything to get what they're after...
Loved it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder Stoughton for giving me an advance copy.
November 13, 2023
2009: During a summer heatwave, teenagers are going missing. Junior Officer Alex Finn takes on the case and fears that the disappearances are linked. In a race against the clock to find and rescue the children alive, Finn and his team are only partially successful. Two of the children are saved, but they were too late for Oliver, And the killer got away.
2023: DI Alex Finn is still tormented by the cases of his youth - none more than the 2009 kidnappings. And it seems someone else has not forgotten either. They want answers after all this time, and with a gun in their pocket, and their sights set on Alex, they'll do anything to get what they're after.
Finn is revisiting his past and a cold case he investigated in 2009 that still torments him today. The story has a dual timeline that flips back and forth from the past to the present day. It's filled with secrets, lies, and deceit. The characters are well-portrayed, and the storyline is gripping. I liked learning about Alex Finn when he was a Junior Officer. This is a cleverly crafted story. There are some great twists. I found this gritty read hard to put down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Hodder&Stoughton and the author #WillShindler for my ARC of #TheColdCase in exchange for an honest review.
2023: DI Alex Finn is still tormented by the cases of his youth - none more than the 2009 kidnappings. And it seems someone else has not forgotten either. They want answers after all this time, and with a gun in their pocket, and their sights set on Alex, they'll do anything to get what they're after.
Finn is revisiting his past and a cold case he investigated in 2009 that still torments him today. The story has a dual timeline that flips back and forth from the past to the present day. It's filled with secrets, lies, and deceit. The characters are well-portrayed, and the storyline is gripping. I liked learning about Alex Finn when he was a Junior Officer. This is a cleverly crafted story. There are some great twists. I found this gritty read hard to put down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Hodder&Stoughton and the author #WillShindler for my ARC of #TheColdCase in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2024
I read all the novels in this series and loved them. This one confirm my opinion about the author, excellent storyteller, and the stories, well done and gripping.
Twisty, fast paced and solid plot, well rounded characters
An excellent read
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Twisty, fast paced and solid plot, well rounded characters
An excellent read
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
February 18, 2024
Since it's already in the title that it had twists I knew I should look for the unexpected. I got close, but still didn't manage to figure out who it was exactly.
It was a good story with well written characters.
It was a good story with well written characters.
June 2, 2024
I'm disappointed to finish the last available book in this series. It's a bit different to the others but equally dark and nasty!
June 7, 2024
Nothing revealed until the end!
Fast paced, plausible, well written and leaves the reader wanting to see how the whole series develops. Well I hope!
Fast paced, plausible, well written and leaves the reader wanting to see how the whole series develops. Well I hope!
November 4, 2023
This is the latest book in the brilliant DI Alex Finn series and I have loved all the previous books but this was by far the best so far it really is a series not to be missed if you love a police procedural with a great cast of characters. I really liked the idea of Finn reopening a cold case and particularly enjoyed the different timelines I thought it worked really well. The twists were surprising and as always the writing was superb but what makes these books so special is how real both Finn and the other members of the are. The pace of the read was perfect and the gripping storyline kept me hooked throughout and although I flew through the book I was sad when it ended and look forward to the next in the series.
So a 5 star read for me and one I would highly recommend and many thanks to Will Shindler please and please can we have more!
My thanks also to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
So a 5 star read for me and one I would highly recommend and many thanks to Will Shindler please and please can we have more!
My thanks also to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Read
April 1, 2024Breves considerações sobre a série "DI Alex Finn" (#1, #2, #3, #4 e #5)
Fui agradavelmente surpreendida com o primeiro livro da série. Empatizei logo com o protagonista, com a sua história de vida, com a sua mente e dedicação ao trabalho. Gostei bastante do enredo, das descrições macabras de algumas cenas, das motivações dos personagens. Por momentos, pelas descrições e por toda a construção deste mundo, recordei-me dos livros do Chris Carter (que é, simplesmente, um dos meus autores favoritos de todos os tempos).
Obviamente, não resisti e li a série toda de seguida.
Foi muito interessante assistir à evolução dos personagens, conhecer melhor as suas histórias de vida, os seus pontos fortes e limitações e acompanhá-los ao longo de todas as investigações.
Foram cinco enredos que me encheram as medidas. Gostei bastante. Fico a torcer para que o autor publique mais livros.
Março 2024
Fui agradavelmente surpreendida com o primeiro livro da série. Empatizei logo com o protagonista, com a sua história de vida, com a sua mente e dedicação ao trabalho. Gostei bastante do enredo, das descrições macabras de algumas cenas, das motivações dos personagens. Por momentos, pelas descrições e por toda a construção deste mundo, recordei-me dos livros do Chris Carter (que é, simplesmente, um dos meus autores favoritos de todos os tempos).
Obviamente, não resisti e li a série toda de seguida.
Foi muito interessante assistir à evolução dos personagens, conhecer melhor as suas histórias de vida, os seus pontos fortes e limitações e acompanhá-los ao longo de todas as investigações.
Foram cinco enredos que me encheram as medidas. Gostei bastante. Fico a torcer para que o autor publique mais livros.
Março 2024
November 19, 2023
I do love this series, have really enjoyed getting to know Will Shindler's very troubled protagonist, DI Alex Finn, and his spiky yet efficient partner in crime-fighting, DS Matti Paulsen. It's fair to say though, that The Cold Case feels like somewhat of a milestone in the series. We learn more about Alex's past, both his police career and the start of his relationship with his wife, Karin, but also see far more of Mattie as she is forced to take on a new, more serious role within the team. It is both sort of a beginning and an end, a very intriguing premise for a reader and one which had me hooked from the very start.
The story opens with Alex being called to the scene of a suspicious death. It is not necessarily determined that it was murder but Alex had a history with the victim, one that actually forms a large part of the story in its own right. Many years earlier, Alex led the investigation into the abduction of three teenagers, an investigation that ended in tragedy for one of the three, and that left a mark on the two survivors, their family, friends and the police alike. This new case links back to Alex's past and in breaking news of the latest tragedy, Alex soon finds himself caught in a life threatening situation, whilst his colleagues are left trying to piece together what really happened on that fateful summer in 2009.
What follows is a dual timeline story, with readers following not only the current day investigation, but being plunged back into the summer of 2009, and the hellish situation that the three teenagers had been placed in. We gain multiple points of view, following Alex Finn in both past and present day, as well as the teenagers who were abducted, Alex's present team as they investigate the current case and one of the friends of the teenagers who only narrowly avoided being abducted due to the bravery of a passing stranger. It is a dark and twisted case and whilst we are spared any of the most gruesome details of what comes to pass, there is no denying the depravity of those involved.
There is a real feeling of tension through the narrative, not just because of the situation Alex is placed in in the present day, but also because I found it all too easy to guess what the real purpose of the teenager's abduction was. It takes a time for this to be revealed, but when certain clues are dropped into the investigation, it is almost impossible to miss, although I did twig far quicker than the Detectives it seems. I like how the author has framed the story though, the back and forth between past and present easy to follow, and with some quieter moments that make the darker scenes easier to bear. Moments such as the scenes between a young Alex and his introduction to Karin - not as romantic an introduction as you might think given how much of an impact she has had on his life in the present day - and between Paulsen and new DC Vanessa Nash, made for a nice interlude. Paulsen hasn't really mellowed all that much over the years, as Nash finds out to her cost, but despite early appearances, this does seem to be the start of a good partnership .
Now readers of the previous book will understand the sense of melancholy that is hanging over Alex's team, and with the danger that one of them is placed in again, you have to wonder if Will Shindler ever intends to give his characters a break. Then again, would we love the series as much if everything was plain sailing and the killer was in cuffs within a couple of pages with no casualties along the way? Probably not, and just as well as there is plenty of misdirection and intrigue in this book that amplifies the every present tension. There are plenty of unsavoury characters for us to despise, moments of genuine emotion that seep from the page, and several surprising confessions which really turn what we think we know on its head. And if you think you know whodunnit, you're probably wrong. It's not entirely out of left field, but it's not far off and it will be a long time before that all elusive penny finally drops.
This is a story that really digs into the impact that crime has not only on the victims, but those who love them. It also shows how deeply and keenly Alex Finn feels his responsibility as a police officer and explains more the weight of emotion that he has carried with him for so long. Perfectly paced, this is an often emotional, dark, tension filled read that had me rapidly turning the pages until it's truly satisfying conclusion. This feels like the end of a chapter for Alex Finn in a way, but I'm hoping not the last we'll see of the team as they're a great bunch I've really come to like over the past five books. Definitely recommended.
The story opens with Alex being called to the scene of a suspicious death. It is not necessarily determined that it was murder but Alex had a history with the victim, one that actually forms a large part of the story in its own right. Many years earlier, Alex led the investigation into the abduction of three teenagers, an investigation that ended in tragedy for one of the three, and that left a mark on the two survivors, their family, friends and the police alike. This new case links back to Alex's past and in breaking news of the latest tragedy, Alex soon finds himself caught in a life threatening situation, whilst his colleagues are left trying to piece together what really happened on that fateful summer in 2009.
What follows is a dual timeline story, with readers following not only the current day investigation, but being plunged back into the summer of 2009, and the hellish situation that the three teenagers had been placed in. We gain multiple points of view, following Alex Finn in both past and present day, as well as the teenagers who were abducted, Alex's present team as they investigate the current case and one of the friends of the teenagers who only narrowly avoided being abducted due to the bravery of a passing stranger. It is a dark and twisted case and whilst we are spared any of the most gruesome details of what comes to pass, there is no denying the depravity of those involved.
There is a real feeling of tension through the narrative, not just because of the situation Alex is placed in in the present day, but also because I found it all too easy to guess what the real purpose of the teenager's abduction was. It takes a time for this to be revealed, but when certain clues are dropped into the investigation, it is almost impossible to miss, although I did twig far quicker than the Detectives it seems. I like how the author has framed the story though, the back and forth between past and present easy to follow, and with some quieter moments that make the darker scenes easier to bear. Moments such as the scenes between a young Alex and his introduction to Karin - not as romantic an introduction as you might think given how much of an impact she has had on his life in the present day - and between Paulsen and new DC Vanessa Nash, made for a nice interlude. Paulsen hasn't really mellowed all that much over the years, as Nash finds out to her cost, but despite early appearances, this does seem to be the start of a good partnership .
Now readers of the previous book will understand the sense of melancholy that is hanging over Alex's team, and with the danger that one of them is placed in again, you have to wonder if Will Shindler ever intends to give his characters a break. Then again, would we love the series as much if everything was plain sailing and the killer was in cuffs within a couple of pages with no casualties along the way? Probably not, and just as well as there is plenty of misdirection and intrigue in this book that amplifies the every present tension. There are plenty of unsavoury characters for us to despise, moments of genuine emotion that seep from the page, and several surprising confessions which really turn what we think we know on its head. And if you think you know whodunnit, you're probably wrong. It's not entirely out of left field, but it's not far off and it will be a long time before that all elusive penny finally drops.
This is a story that really digs into the impact that crime has not only on the victims, but those who love them. It also shows how deeply and keenly Alex Finn feels his responsibility as a police officer and explains more the weight of emotion that he has carried with him for so long. Perfectly paced, this is an often emotional, dark, tension filled read that had me rapidly turning the pages until it's truly satisfying conclusion. This feels like the end of a chapter for Alex Finn in a way, but I'm hoping not the last we'll see of the team as they're a great bunch I've really come to like over the past five books. Definitely recommended.
November 23, 2023
This is the latest dark offering from Will Shindler's marvellous DI Alex Finn series, and what an addition, with his team and DCI John Skegman still reeling from the trauma and loss of Jackie Ojo as they are plunged into another set of challenging circumstances in the wintry chill and snow. This takes Alex back to his haunted past and the sweltering heat of 2009 and the tense hunt to find 3 abducted teenagers, first Oliver Littlewood, and then Lee Ellis and Jemma Vickers. It documents his first initial and unpromising meeting with his dead wife, Karin, then a duty solicitor, and the development of their relationship. Two are eventually rescued, one is found brutally murdered in a cellar, whilst the kidnapper escapes. A few years later, a dying man confesses to the killing, providing details that were never made public, ostensibly bring the matter to a close.
An emotionally deeply affected Alex kept in touch with key players in the case through the years right up until Karin's death left him wrapped up in an unbearable grief. However, he is taken straight back to the past when he recognises a dead body, only for the situation to explosively spiral out of control when he goes to break the news of the death. The spiky DS Mattie Paulsen finds herself in the unwanted position of leading the police team with the new DC Vanessa Nash, taking a second look at the 2009 cold case, and the repercussions which have spilled into the present and which include murder. They find themselves chasing down a lead from the dark web, the sinister and menacing Red Tide, making money from a macabre niche market. In a bleak and twisted narrative that shifts from the past to the present, we are given insightful glimpses into a key set of characters, their future shaped by what happened in 2009, connected, fragile, with some broken and damaged beyond repair.
Shindler does a remarkable job in forensically examining the impact of grief, guilt, secrets, a daisy chain of shared pain and anger passed between the group through the years, with the truth being buried, guaranteeing the trauma and wounds would fester tragically out of control. Finn is determined and tenacious in chasing justice in the present as he becomes aware they had got it so wrong in 2009. This is a thought provoking and smart crime read, a stellar addition to a brilliant series with characters I have become completely invested in. I look forward with great anticipation to the next in the series! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
An emotionally deeply affected Alex kept in touch with key players in the case through the years right up until Karin's death left him wrapped up in an unbearable grief. However, he is taken straight back to the past when he recognises a dead body, only for the situation to explosively spiral out of control when he goes to break the news of the death. The spiky DS Mattie Paulsen finds herself in the unwanted position of leading the police team with the new DC Vanessa Nash, taking a second look at the 2009 cold case, and the repercussions which have spilled into the present and which include murder. They find themselves chasing down a lead from the dark web, the sinister and menacing Red Tide, making money from a macabre niche market. In a bleak and twisted narrative that shifts from the past to the present, we are given insightful glimpses into a key set of characters, their future shaped by what happened in 2009, connected, fragile, with some broken and damaged beyond repair.
Shindler does a remarkable job in forensically examining the impact of grief, guilt, secrets, a daisy chain of shared pain and anger passed between the group through the years, with the truth being buried, guaranteeing the trauma and wounds would fester tragically out of control. Finn is determined and tenacious in chasing justice in the present as he becomes aware they had got it so wrong in 2009. This is a thought provoking and smart crime read, a stellar addition to a brilliant series with characters I have become completely invested in. I look forward with great anticipation to the next in the series! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
November 29, 2023
4.5⭐
The Cold Case is my first introduction to author Will Shindler and protagonist DI Alex Finn and what a cracking introduction it is!
As DI Alex Finn back in 2009 was working as a DS and was involved in a strange and haunting case. That saw on two separate occasions, three teenagers Oliver, Jemma and Lee abducted.
And after a frantic search found by Alex in the basement of a house in London. But only two of the three teenagers survived and the perpetrator was never found.
Until 2015 when a sex offender admitted to being responsible. Yet, Alex has never quite believed he was telling the truth but accepted the case was closed and made a point of keeping in touch with the victims' families and Jemma and Lee who survived their ordeal.
But thanks to Alex's bereavement and the shocking loss of his colleague Alex has let things slide and he's not quite up to date with the families as he'd like to be.
Which is why when he's called to a crime scene in Tooting he's shocked to see the victim is Jemma and instead of heading straight to her family home he goes to talk to Lee at the cafe where he works.
And finds himself facing down the barrel of a gun.
Now the team headed by DS Paulson and including newbie DC Vanessa Nash have to frantically search for Jemma's killer without him. Whilst also trying to figure out why Lee adamantly believes his abductor killed Jemma and is still actively abducting teenagers just like in 09.
And it's a race against time.
As the story seamlessly slips between the current investigation, the 09 investigation and the hostage situation Alex finds himself in.
And you are taken on a rollercoaster ride! As you are drip-fed details of what really happened when Jemma and Lee were abducted and what lies those closest to them and Olivers family have been keeping.
And with so many twists and turns. A perpetrator I did not see coming and characters I want to read more about. This was a fantastic read. That kept me up until the early hours as I just had to know how it was going to end!
I'm now off to read all the books I've missed out on.
My thanks to Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Cold Case. 😊
The Cold Case is my first introduction to author Will Shindler and protagonist DI Alex Finn and what a cracking introduction it is!
As DI Alex Finn back in 2009 was working as a DS and was involved in a strange and haunting case. That saw on two separate occasions, three teenagers Oliver, Jemma and Lee abducted.
And after a frantic search found by Alex in the basement of a house in London. But only two of the three teenagers survived and the perpetrator was never found.
Until 2015 when a sex offender admitted to being responsible. Yet, Alex has never quite believed he was telling the truth but accepted the case was closed and made a point of keeping in touch with the victims' families and Jemma and Lee who survived their ordeal.
But thanks to Alex's bereavement and the shocking loss of his colleague Alex has let things slide and he's not quite up to date with the families as he'd like to be.
Which is why when he's called to a crime scene in Tooting he's shocked to see the victim is Jemma and instead of heading straight to her family home he goes to talk to Lee at the cafe where he works.
And finds himself facing down the barrel of a gun.
Now the team headed by DS Paulson and including newbie DC Vanessa Nash have to frantically search for Jemma's killer without him. Whilst also trying to figure out why Lee adamantly believes his abductor killed Jemma and is still actively abducting teenagers just like in 09.
And it's a race against time.
As the story seamlessly slips between the current investigation, the 09 investigation and the hostage situation Alex finds himself in.
And you are taken on a rollercoaster ride! As you are drip-fed details of what really happened when Jemma and Lee were abducted and what lies those closest to them and Olivers family have been keeping.
And with so many twists and turns. A perpetrator I did not see coming and characters I want to read more about. This was a fantastic read. That kept me up until the early hours as I just had to know how it was going to end!
I'm now off to read all the books I've missed out on.
My thanks to Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Cold Case. 😊
December 10, 2023
‘Years ago someone got away with murder... But time's up.’ - teaser
My thanks to Hodder & Stoughton for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Cold Case’ by Will Shindler.
This is Book 5 in a series of police procedurals set in South London featuring DI Alex Finn and DS Mattie Paulsen.
The cold case of the title took place during the summer of 2009 when teenagers Lee and Jenna were kidnapped. Their friend Billy witnessed this though was not taken. Another boy, Oliver, had been abducted a few days previously and the cases are considered linked. At this point in his career Alex is a junior officer. He had managed to rescue Lee and Jenna yet it was too late for Oliver. While the killer got away, in 2016 a dying convict confessed to the crime. Case closed?
In 2023 DI Alex Finn remains tormented by this case. Then Jenna is found dead, murdered. When Alex breaks the news to Lee, he becomes agitated claiming that he had never believed in the confession and that the real abductor has now killed Jenna.
Lee takes Alex and others hostage in order to force the police to reopen the case. He says he won’t release them until the police find the real perpetrator. Quite a tall order though Lee is clearly highly stressed and Alex hopes to calm him down before the situation escalates further.
The narrative moves between 2009 and 2023, with a brief stop in 2016, as well as various perspectives, including the ordeal experienced by the kidnapped teenagers.
The hostage situation was very tense. I find hostage scenarios discomfiting whether in books or other media and this was no different. I felt that the author’s depiction ratcheted up the tension as he moved between the cafe, the police handling the negotiations, and those police frantically seeking answers. More bodies drop along the way and the case takes some shocking turns.
In the first book, ‘The Burning Men’, Karin, Finn’s wife, had recently died and here their first meeting and early relationship is shown, which was quite moving.
Overall, I found ‘The Cold Case’ an intelligent, well plotted police procedural that kept me glued to my e-reader for the duration. In the near future I hope to fill in my gaps in this excellent series as well as keep a lookout for future books.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
My thanks to Hodder & Stoughton for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Cold Case’ by Will Shindler.
This is Book 5 in a series of police procedurals set in South London featuring DI Alex Finn and DS Mattie Paulsen.
The cold case of the title took place during the summer of 2009 when teenagers Lee and Jenna were kidnapped. Their friend Billy witnessed this though was not taken. Another boy, Oliver, had been abducted a few days previously and the cases are considered linked. At this point in his career Alex is a junior officer. He had managed to rescue Lee and Jenna yet it was too late for Oliver. While the killer got away, in 2016 a dying convict confessed to the crime. Case closed?
In 2023 DI Alex Finn remains tormented by this case. Then Jenna is found dead, murdered. When Alex breaks the news to Lee, he becomes agitated claiming that he had never believed in the confession and that the real abductor has now killed Jenna.
Lee takes Alex and others hostage in order to force the police to reopen the case. He says he won’t release them until the police find the real perpetrator. Quite a tall order though Lee is clearly highly stressed and Alex hopes to calm him down before the situation escalates further.
The narrative moves between 2009 and 2023, with a brief stop in 2016, as well as various perspectives, including the ordeal experienced by the kidnapped teenagers.
The hostage situation was very tense. I find hostage scenarios discomfiting whether in books or other media and this was no different. I felt that the author’s depiction ratcheted up the tension as he moved between the cafe, the police handling the negotiations, and those police frantically seeking answers. More bodies drop along the way and the case takes some shocking turns.
In the first book, ‘The Burning Men’, Karin, Finn’s wife, had recently died and here their first meeting and early relationship is shown, which was quite moving.
Overall, I found ‘The Cold Case’ an intelligent, well plotted police procedural that kept me glued to my e-reader for the duration. In the near future I hope to fill in my gaps in this excellent series as well as keep a lookout for future books.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
December 6, 2023
This is book five in this most excellent series and, you know what's coming - series book, to get the best from it, start from book one and read in order. You know it makes sense...
So... In this book we get to go back to 2009, to meet a young Alex Finn. When he was a junior officer working on the case of some missing teenagers during a long hot summer. Two were saved, one sadly not, the perp going free. Back in the present day and that case, the one they failed to solve, has come back to bite him in his nether regions. I say never solved, someone did confess, eventually. Anyway, there's a body, a dead female, with links back to the 2009 case. Making past and present collide... Which, to be honest, isn't a bad thing as the team needs to have something to focus on after the death of one of their own not so long since. Obviously they'd all prefer it didn't concern the death of others but still...
I blooming loved this book, as I have all the previous too. But there was something extra special about this one that gave it just that edge. Maybe it was the foray into the past to see a glimpse of the young Alex. Maybe it was how we got to witness Alex meeting his now late wife Karin. That was a nice extra touch that I really did love. If you have read the previous books, you'll know how much the death of Karin has affected Alex.
And then there's the crimes being investigated. The current one and they also go back and re-investigate the kidnapping and death. Both threads progressing at exactly the right rates to bring it all together seamlessly. Both delivering shock after surprise and revealing secret after lie as the truth is finally all laid bare. An ending that left me wholly satisfied.
And as well as all of that, we have a new team member to welcome. DC Vanessa Nash who is partnered with Mattie, it's also a nice side story seeing her introduction.
I really can't wait to see what happens next for Alex and his team. All in all, this is a series that I can't recommend enough to fans of the genre. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... In this book we get to go back to 2009, to meet a young Alex Finn. When he was a junior officer working on the case of some missing teenagers during a long hot summer. Two were saved, one sadly not, the perp going free. Back in the present day and that case, the one they failed to solve, has come back to bite him in his nether regions. I say never solved, someone did confess, eventually. Anyway, there's a body, a dead female, with links back to the 2009 case. Making past and present collide... Which, to be honest, isn't a bad thing as the team needs to have something to focus on after the death of one of their own not so long since. Obviously they'd all prefer it didn't concern the death of others but still...
I blooming loved this book, as I have all the previous too. But there was something extra special about this one that gave it just that edge. Maybe it was the foray into the past to see a glimpse of the young Alex. Maybe it was how we got to witness Alex meeting his now late wife Karin. That was a nice extra touch that I really did love. If you have read the previous books, you'll know how much the death of Karin has affected Alex.
And then there's the crimes being investigated. The current one and they also go back and re-investigate the kidnapping and death. Both threads progressing at exactly the right rates to bring it all together seamlessly. Both delivering shock after surprise and revealing secret after lie as the truth is finally all laid bare. An ending that left me wholly satisfied.
And as well as all of that, we have a new team member to welcome. DC Vanessa Nash who is partnered with Mattie, it's also a nice side story seeing her introduction.
I really can't wait to see what happens next for Alex and his team. All in all, this is a series that I can't recommend enough to fans of the genre. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
December 7, 2023
Another incredible thriller by Will Schindler in the DI Alex Finn series. You can always rely on Wills books to be action pact, fast paced and he just keeps the reader wanting more.
In 2009 two teenagers were abducted and thrown into the back of a white van. Whilst they were kept in a cellar another missing boy (who had been taken prior to this and was being looked for by the police) was also put in the cellar. As a DC Alex Finn worked on this case. The kidnapper also murderer confesses and the case was closed.
Fast forward to today and crimes being committed and remarkably similar and link back to the case Alex dealt with back in 2009, however the person who was charged and admitted to these crimes is now dead.
With one of the surviving teenage victims now being murdered and the second working in a cafe Alex starts to doubt whether or not they caught the right person. As well as that the mother of the murdered teenager Oliver is convinced they have the wrong guy and so is the last of the surviving trio. In order to get Alex’s attention and get the police to listen to him he holds Alex and another person hostage saying he will only let them go if the case is reopened.
I’ve got to say Will Schindler has out done himself with this one. Until about 3 quarters of the way through this book I didn’t have a clue who was behind these crimes. In the end I did guess who but it was way more luck than judgement.
Once I picked up this book I didn’t want to put it down. I now remember why I want to go back and read some of the other books in this series that I haven’t already read. On that note this book can be read as a stand alone however I’d say it would be a good idea to read the previous book in this series as there is some reference to what happened in the past but I won’t say to much as no spoilers.
Thank you to NetGalley the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review. It was fast paced, action packed, exciting and had more twists and turns than a rollercoaster.
In 2009 two teenagers were abducted and thrown into the back of a white van. Whilst they were kept in a cellar another missing boy (who had been taken prior to this and was being looked for by the police) was also put in the cellar. As a DC Alex Finn worked on this case. The kidnapper also murderer confesses and the case was closed.
Fast forward to today and crimes being committed and remarkably similar and link back to the case Alex dealt with back in 2009, however the person who was charged and admitted to these crimes is now dead.
With one of the surviving teenage victims now being murdered and the second working in a cafe Alex starts to doubt whether or not they caught the right person. As well as that the mother of the murdered teenager Oliver is convinced they have the wrong guy and so is the last of the surviving trio. In order to get Alex’s attention and get the police to listen to him he holds Alex and another person hostage saying he will only let them go if the case is reopened.
I’ve got to say Will Schindler has out done himself with this one. Until about 3 quarters of the way through this book I didn’t have a clue who was behind these crimes. In the end I did guess who but it was way more luck than judgement.
Once I picked up this book I didn’t want to put it down. I now remember why I want to go back and read some of the other books in this series that I haven’t already read. On that note this book can be read as a stand alone however I’d say it would be a good idea to read the previous book in this series as there is some reference to what happened in the past but I won’t say to much as no spoilers.
Thank you to NetGalley the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review. It was fast paced, action packed, exciting and had more twists and turns than a rollercoaster.
September 29, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this eARC.
This is one very thrilling read that I thoroughly enjoyed. The team are still reeling after the events in the previous book and a new DC joins the team. Finn has to revisit a cold case from his past and has doubts put in his mind whether they got the right man at that time, and Paulsen investigates a murder with links to the cold case.
I was pulled into the story straightaway. I love this authors writing style and the portrayal of his characters, they are very likeable, believable and realistic and I always root for them. The story flows well here and moves from past to present times very easily. The plot line is very intricate with lots of threads, and went off in an unexpected direction several times that just added to my enjoyment of this read. I felt like I was unwrapping layer upon layer of lies, secrets, deceit and subterfuge following both the old investigation alongside the current one. What I liked here was getting to know Finn as a young DS, knowing a bit more of his history and how he met Karin - this, for me, rounds him out more as a character and gives more depth into what makes him tick. The characters here are mostly likeable with some having secrets that I couldn't wait to find out. I had so much empathy for one of them and how previous events had shaped them. I loved the support Skegman gave Paulsen when she was running the investigation, and will admit to being on the fence initially about the new DC although as time went on I did like them more. Overall I found this to be a very absorbing and thrilling read that grabbed and held my attention and interest from start to finish. Dare I say I think it's the best book by Will Shindler so far ? If you're a fan of police procedurals I'd recommend this although would say if you're new to this author read the books in order to know the characters from the beginning.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is one very thrilling read that I thoroughly enjoyed. The team are still reeling after the events in the previous book and a new DC joins the team. Finn has to revisit a cold case from his past and has doubts put in his mind whether they got the right man at that time, and Paulsen investigates a murder with links to the cold case.
I was pulled into the story straightaway. I love this authors writing style and the portrayal of his characters, they are very likeable, believable and realistic and I always root for them. The story flows well here and moves from past to present times very easily. The plot line is very intricate with lots of threads, and went off in an unexpected direction several times that just added to my enjoyment of this read. I felt like I was unwrapping layer upon layer of lies, secrets, deceit and subterfuge following both the old investigation alongside the current one. What I liked here was getting to know Finn as a young DS, knowing a bit more of his history and how he met Karin - this, for me, rounds him out more as a character and gives more depth into what makes him tick. The characters here are mostly likeable with some having secrets that I couldn't wait to find out. I had so much empathy for one of them and how previous events had shaped them. I loved the support Skegman gave Paulsen when she was running the investigation, and will admit to being on the fence initially about the new DC although as time went on I did like them more. Overall I found this to be a very absorbing and thrilling read that grabbed and held my attention and interest from start to finish. Dare I say I think it's the best book by Will Shindler so far ? If you're a fan of police procedurals I'd recommend this although would say if you're new to this author read the books in order to know the characters from the beginning.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 15, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for an advance copy of The Cold Case, the fifth novel to feature DI Alex Finn of the Met.
In 2009 three teenagers were kidnapped DS Finn was charged with finding them and only partially succeeded, Jemma and Lee were found alive, but Oliver was dead and the kidnapper escaped. Now in 2023 someone wants answers from Alex and is prepared to use violence to get them.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Cold Case, which is a multilayered police procedural with some great twists and turns. I think that this is the author’s most ambitious novel to date and it pays off in spades as it is an absorbing, immersive read with some heart stopping and heartbreaking moments.
It all goes back to 2009 and the kidnap. Alex got a credible confession in 2016, but not everyone believes it. Due to the events in 2023 the team gives the kidnap another look, so there is a dual timeline as it flips between 2009 and 2023, both told from various points of view. I found it fascinating as most of the characters involved are keeping secrets and it is difficult to tell where those secrets lie. The author does a sterling job of not over sharing early on in the novel, thus building the suspense and tension so that when they are revealed it’s like one shock after another. It’s gobsmacking to be honest. I don’t want to discuss the events of the novel as that would spoil things, but it’s safe to say that there is never a dull moment.
There is a lot of emotion in this novel and I think, again, that the author does a great job of portraying it and making it understandable for the reader. Trauma always ends up showing itself. I was pleased to see Alex Finn taking some emotional steps himself, trying to lose his guilt and grief, so, despite the strong feelings in the novel it ends on an optimistic note.
The Cold Case is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
In 2009 three teenagers were kidnapped DS Finn was charged with finding them and only partially succeeded, Jemma and Lee were found alive, but Oliver was dead and the kidnapper escaped. Now in 2023 someone wants answers from Alex and is prepared to use violence to get them.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Cold Case, which is a multilayered police procedural with some great twists and turns. I think that this is the author’s most ambitious novel to date and it pays off in spades as it is an absorbing, immersive read with some heart stopping and heartbreaking moments.
It all goes back to 2009 and the kidnap. Alex got a credible confession in 2016, but not everyone believes it. Due to the events in 2023 the team gives the kidnap another look, so there is a dual timeline as it flips between 2009 and 2023, both told from various points of view. I found it fascinating as most of the characters involved are keeping secrets and it is difficult to tell where those secrets lie. The author does a sterling job of not over sharing early on in the novel, thus building the suspense and tension so that when they are revealed it’s like one shock after another. It’s gobsmacking to be honest. I don’t want to discuss the events of the novel as that would spoil things, but it’s safe to say that there is never a dull moment.
There is a lot of emotion in this novel and I think, again, that the author does a great job of portraying it and making it understandable for the reader. Trauma always ends up showing itself. I was pleased to see Alex Finn taking some emotional steps himself, trying to lose his guilt and grief, so, despite the strong feelings in the novel it ends on an optimistic note.
The Cold Case is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
December 13, 2023
I’ve read and enjoyed the earlier books in the Detective Alex Finn series and was excited to receive a review copy of “The Cold Case”, his latest outing.
It’s the story of a kidnapping from 2009, one of Alex’s earlier cases which is linked to a present day murder.
In 2009 Alex was investigating the kidnap of 3 teenagers, managing to rescue 2 of them. With a full confession 7 years later from a dying prisoner it looked like the culprit had already been convicted.
However, not everyone believes this, including 2 of the victims. Lee and Jemma.
When there is a siege in which Alex is held captive, perpetrated by one of those involved in the 2009 events, Mattie and the team take another look at the cold case in connection to the present day murder and realise that maybe things have been missed.
This was a well written thriller which moved effortlessly between the two time periods. The reader is able to meet a younger Alex at a time when he first encounters his wife, Karin who has unfortunately passed away by the present day series of events. It is interesting to see their back story and it makes the character of Alex more rounded.
I liked the constant connections between the kidnap victims and their families- none of them had been able to move on from the traumatic events of the past despite outward appearances. Even Jemma who has a young family, is still not satisfied with the confession.
This was a gritty novel with some upsetting scenes but it was a compelling read which held my attention until the very last page.
I would recommend this as a standalone or if you’ve read the previous books in the series The Cold Case is a great continuation.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
It’s the story of a kidnapping from 2009, one of Alex’s earlier cases which is linked to a present day murder.
In 2009 Alex was investigating the kidnap of 3 teenagers, managing to rescue 2 of them. With a full confession 7 years later from a dying prisoner it looked like the culprit had already been convicted.
However, not everyone believes this, including 2 of the victims. Lee and Jemma.
When there is a siege in which Alex is held captive, perpetrated by one of those involved in the 2009 events, Mattie and the team take another look at the cold case in connection to the present day murder and realise that maybe things have been missed.
This was a well written thriller which moved effortlessly between the two time periods. The reader is able to meet a younger Alex at a time when he first encounters his wife, Karin who has unfortunately passed away by the present day series of events. It is interesting to see their back story and it makes the character of Alex more rounded.
I liked the constant connections between the kidnap victims and their families- none of them had been able to move on from the traumatic events of the past despite outward appearances. Even Jemma who has a young family, is still not satisfied with the confession.
This was a gritty novel with some upsetting scenes but it was a compelling read which held my attention until the very last page.
I would recommend this as a standalone or if you’ve read the previous books in the series The Cold Case is a great continuation.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
December 9, 2023
The latest in the DI Alex Finn series, The Cold Case is another gripping, and at times emotional, read from Will Shindler.
With four previous books in the series, I am a bit of a newbie having only read one other, but I am well and truly hooked - if you are a fan of police procedurals with a really engaging set of characters then I suggest you get on board!
Set across two timelines, the book moves from summer 2009 when Finn worked on a case involving the abduction of three teenagers and the murder of one of them, to the present day when another of those involved is found dead. Seemingly solved, the case is one that has stayed wirh Finn and now it seems there might be more to the original case than anyone suspected at the time.
What Shindler does well is create a cast of believable and likeable characters who you cannot help but root for. The dual timeline enables the reader to get to know Finn better as we learn more about his career and the beginning of his relationship with his late wife as we see him determined to get to the truth this time. We see the impact of the traumatic events on all those involved and the tangled web of secrets and lies that results in tragic consequences.
It is a book that is certainly gritty at times but that is what adds a level of emotion to a shocking story full of twists snd tension that builds that kept me turning the pages late into the night as it headed to its dramatic conclusion!
With four previous books in the series, I am a bit of a newbie having only read one other, but I am well and truly hooked - if you are a fan of police procedurals with a really engaging set of characters then I suggest you get on board!
Set across two timelines, the book moves from summer 2009 when Finn worked on a case involving the abduction of three teenagers and the murder of one of them, to the present day when another of those involved is found dead. Seemingly solved, the case is one that has stayed wirh Finn and now it seems there might be more to the original case than anyone suspected at the time.
What Shindler does well is create a cast of believable and likeable characters who you cannot help but root for. The dual timeline enables the reader to get to know Finn better as we learn more about his career and the beginning of his relationship with his late wife as we see him determined to get to the truth this time. We see the impact of the traumatic events on all those involved and the tangled web of secrets and lies that results in tragic consequences.
It is a book that is certainly gritty at times but that is what adds a level of emotion to a shocking story full of twists snd tension that builds that kept me turning the pages late into the night as it headed to its dramatic conclusion!
December 10, 2023
Another great installment in the DI Alex Finn series!
The case that Alex gets involved in this time dates back to a case he worked on in 2009 when 3 teenagers were kidnapped and only two were found alive.
It is a case that stayed with him throughout the years. a Case that still haunts him because he could not save one of the boys.
He tried to keep in touch with the two surviving teenagers as well as their friend who got away from the abductor but in recent years, especially with the death of his wife he kind of lost touch with them. Then he gets a phone call telling him that Jemma was found dead. Was this murder or just an unfortunate accident? From here things start spiraling downwards. When he tries to break the news to Lee, her then-boyfriend, things do not turn out how he expected and Alex ends up being taken hostage. Lee is convinced that the guy who confessed to their kidnapping years after it happened, was not the perpetrator and he demands that they look into the case again because he's convinced that Jemma was killed by the same person.
With Alex being held hostage his team must pull together and try and find out what really happened. Did the guy who confessed to the abductions before his death lie or was he telling the truth? Or an even bigger question; are there more sinister things at play?
A highly entertaining and fast-paced read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
The case that Alex gets involved in this time dates back to a case he worked on in 2009 when 3 teenagers were kidnapped and only two were found alive.
It is a case that stayed with him throughout the years. a Case that still haunts him because he could not save one of the boys.
He tried to keep in touch with the two surviving teenagers as well as their friend who got away from the abductor but in recent years, especially with the death of his wife he kind of lost touch with them. Then he gets a phone call telling him that Jemma was found dead. Was this murder or just an unfortunate accident? From here things start spiraling downwards. When he tries to break the news to Lee, her then-boyfriend, things do not turn out how he expected and Alex ends up being taken hostage. Lee is convinced that the guy who confessed to their kidnapping years after it happened, was not the perpetrator and he demands that they look into the case again because he's convinced that Jemma was killed by the same person.
With Alex being held hostage his team must pull together and try and find out what really happened. Did the guy who confessed to the abductions before his death lie or was he telling the truth? Or an even bigger question; are there more sinister things at play?
A highly entertaining and fast-paced read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
November 14, 2023
This was the first time I had read a Will Shindler book so my first time meeting DI Alex Finn. However, I enjoyed this story so much that I will go back and read others in the series. There were many references to past episodes, but this did not detract from my enjoyment. In this story, Alex finds himself in a tricky situation whilst his colleagues re-examine the abduction of three teenagers, one of whom was murdered, back in 2009. A more recent death triggers one of the victims to take Alex hostage in order to force the police to reinvestigate his own kidnap. Along the way, they find that many assumptions that were made at the time, including the acceptance that a man who confessed to the crimes was guilty, were not as they seemed. When Alex is freed, he and his team must delve into the world of the dark web to help them find the culprits. The ending came as a surprise, although the author played fair by laying out the clues in plain sight. This story also contains details of how Alex met his wife Karin and fills in previously unrecorded background which will be of interest to readers who have followed the series from the start and intrigue those who haven't enough to motivate them to go back and read from the beginning.
November 25, 2023
I've read others in the DI Alex Finn series and enjoyed them. This one takes us back to earlier in his career, when three young people are abducted and one is murdered. Alex holds himself responsible for allowing the culprit to escape, in his bid to save the lives of the other youngsters. Fast forward to present day and one of the girls kidnapped is found dead. Alex goes to tell her friend, the other survivor, only to find a damaged man who is determined they had the wrong person (despite a confession) and insisting that Alex reopen the case. All the families involved in the abductions are throwing around blame and recriminations as they come to terms with the fact that the confessor may not have been the only perpetrator.
The result is an interesting tale, showing the psychological scars of abduction can last long after the events. However, I found the ricocheting between 2009 and the present a little confusing - it seemed every other paragraph was in a different time line. The story would perhaps have had more cohesion with less jumping around.
Overall I enjoyed it, but I didn't find it as gripping as the others in the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The result is an interesting tale, showing the psychological scars of abduction can last long after the events. However, I found the ricocheting between 2009 and the present a little confusing - it seemed every other paragraph was in a different time line. The story would perhaps have had more cohesion with less jumping around.
Overall I enjoyed it, but I didn't find it as gripping as the others in the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2023
The DI Alex Finn series is one of my favourites and Will Shindler is an amazing author. His novels are brilliantly-written, intense, and full of twists and, as expected, his latest one, The Cold Case, is a thrilling read that I couldn’t put down.
Told in two timelines, in 2009 and in the present day, the story sees DI Alex Finn facing one of his old cases, involving the kidnapping of three teenagers, that affected him so personally that he is still in touch with the victims and his families. And, when one of the victims is found dead, he starts to wonder if mistakes were made and the real culprit may still be out there. Did they arrest the right person? And what really happened to these three teenagers on that hot summer of 2009?
DI Alex Finn and his team at Cedar House race against time to find out the truth before it’s too late, but they are still recovering from the murder of one of their own and the betrayal of another, while welcoming a very enthusiastic new member. And while the old case brings back to Alex memories of his past and of meeting his wife, the capable and unflappable newly promoted DS Mattie Paulsen finds herself plunged into her new role while facing her own family problems.
I really enjoyed The Cold Case. It’s dark and gripping, some of the scenes are not easy to read and others are quite emotional. It kept me on edge from the first to the last page and it left me already looking forward to the next book.
Told in two timelines, in 2009 and in the present day, the story sees DI Alex Finn facing one of his old cases, involving the kidnapping of three teenagers, that affected him so personally that he is still in touch with the victims and his families. And, when one of the victims is found dead, he starts to wonder if mistakes were made and the real culprit may still be out there. Did they arrest the right person? And what really happened to these three teenagers on that hot summer of 2009?
DI Alex Finn and his team at Cedar House race against time to find out the truth before it’s too late, but they are still recovering from the murder of one of their own and the betrayal of another, while welcoming a very enthusiastic new member. And while the old case brings back to Alex memories of his past and of meeting his wife, the capable and unflappable newly promoted DS Mattie Paulsen finds herself plunged into her new role while facing her own family problems.
I really enjoyed The Cold Case. It’s dark and gripping, some of the scenes are not easy to read and others are quite emotional. It kept me on edge from the first to the last page and it left me already looking forward to the next book.
September 17, 2023
DI Alex Finn and his team are already having a tough time grieving the recent loss of one of their colleagues. It's the dead of winter and things are about to get very heated indeed as an old case from 2009 suddenly surges to life once again.
Finn was involved in the case many years ago and retains a personal relationship with the victims. At that time, the murder of an 18 year old boy and girl was swiftly followed by the murder of another 18 year old. Now it seems that things were a lot more complicated than initially thought.
In a story involving old cases from Finn's past, links to the dark web, dead teenagers and grieving families, the character of Alex Finn is skilfully brought to life by the author, along with a vibrant cast of supporting characters. Small personal touches and insights are provided and make the characters more memorable.
This was a very effective thriller, with some satisfying twists and a few red herrings thrown in for good measure. An enjoyable read for anyone who likes a good police procedural. It gets 3.5 stars from me.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Finn was involved in the case many years ago and retains a personal relationship with the victims. At that time, the murder of an 18 year old boy and girl was swiftly followed by the murder of another 18 year old. Now it seems that things were a lot more complicated than initially thought.
In a story involving old cases from Finn's past, links to the dark web, dead teenagers and grieving families, the character of Alex Finn is skilfully brought to life by the author, along with a vibrant cast of supporting characters. Small personal touches and insights are provided and make the characters more memorable.
This was a very effective thriller, with some satisfying twists and a few red herrings thrown in for good measure. An enjoyable read for anyone who likes a good police procedural. It gets 3.5 stars from me.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
December 2, 2023
This was a five star read for me!
The story starts with the murder of Jemima whose body was found. DI Alex Finn recognizes Jemima as one of the kids who got kidnapped along with two other teenagers nearly fifteen years ago. When Finn tells Leo, Jemima's boyfriend at that time about Jemima's murder, Leo keep Finn hostage along with others as he tells Finn that the person, who is currently locked up in prison for their kidnapping and the murder of one teenager is not responsible for what happened fifteen years ago and that Finn must find the real killer before it is too late.
This was a fast paced thriller to me. The page divides back and forth between the present day and the past set in 2009 when Finn was investigating the teenager's kidnappings. This is also a page turner as well. I was hooked into the story from the first chapter till the end and there are twists and unexpected turns along the way. The ending was brilliant and was quiet unexpected.
I hope this will become a series as I cannot wait to read more books from this author--worth 5 stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Hodder for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
The story starts with the murder of Jemima whose body was found. DI Alex Finn recognizes Jemima as one of the kids who got kidnapped along with two other teenagers nearly fifteen years ago. When Finn tells Leo, Jemima's boyfriend at that time about Jemima's murder, Leo keep Finn hostage along with others as he tells Finn that the person, who is currently locked up in prison for their kidnapping and the murder of one teenager is not responsible for what happened fifteen years ago and that Finn must find the real killer before it is too late.
This was a fast paced thriller to me. The page divides back and forth between the present day and the past set in 2009 when Finn was investigating the teenager's kidnappings. This is also a page turner as well. I was hooked into the story from the first chapter till the end and there are twists and unexpected turns along the way. The ending was brilliant and was quiet unexpected.
I hope this will become a series as I cannot wait to read more books from this author--worth 5 stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Hodder for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
October 23, 2023
I’ve been a big fan of this series and set of characters since book 1. And I look forward to the new books with eagerness.
After the shocking events of the previous book, this was a book that was always going to have a hard act to follow, and first the first time I think it falls just a little short of the heights of the others in the series,
In saying that though, if you want a supremely researched and crafted police procedural with characters who feel real then this is for you.
I didn’t dislike the book, I enjoyed the book, I just found a little slower than usual in the build up and I wasn’t enamoured with the storyline. Though as the book moved on and the pace accelerates, there are some huge shocks and the bad guy reveal is really very good.
I also felt or wandered if the series has reached an end or something of a crossroads as the finale in someways suggested that to be the case to me.
A series, I love and will continue with, should it carry on, characters I cheer for and feel at home with. It’s a great series and it’s a good book.
After the shocking events of the previous book, this was a book that was always going to have a hard act to follow, and first the first time I think it falls just a little short of the heights of the others in the series,
In saying that though, if you want a supremely researched and crafted police procedural with characters who feel real then this is for you.
I didn’t dislike the book, I enjoyed the book, I just found a little slower than usual in the build up and I wasn’t enamoured with the storyline. Though as the book moved on and the pace accelerates, there are some huge shocks and the bad guy reveal is really very good.
I also felt or wandered if the series has reached an end or something of a crossroads as the finale in someways suggested that to be the case to me.
A series, I love and will continue with, should it carry on, characters I cheer for and feel at home with. It’s a great series and it’s a good book.
December 18, 2023
So good to be meeting up with DI Alex Finn and DS Mattie Paulsen again. They and the rest of the team are still reeling from the death of their friend and colleague Jackie Ojo and Finn is still grieving from the loss of his wife Karin.
A murder takes place that has links to one of Finn’s first jobs that still torments him and the victims 14 years later.
The story flicks cleverly between the 2009 and 2023 investigations with both a race against time to save precious lives.
As you’d expect with a Will Shindler novel it’s edge of your seat exciting, with BIG twists and turns. That in itself keeps the pages turning, but what makes this and previous books in the series even more compelling is the way the author writes about emotion and relationships. I loved that we learned more about Finn’s wife Karin and how their relationship developed and enjoyed meeting DC Vanessa Nash as she takes on the tough job of replacing the irreplaceable Ojo.
Highly recommended!
Thanks to Will Shindler Alainna Georgiou and Hodderbooks for my copy in return for an honest review.
A murder takes place that has links to one of Finn’s first jobs that still torments him and the victims 14 years later.
The story flicks cleverly between the 2009 and 2023 investigations with both a race against time to save precious lives.
As you’d expect with a Will Shindler novel it’s edge of your seat exciting, with BIG twists and turns. That in itself keeps the pages turning, but what makes this and previous books in the series even more compelling is the way the author writes about emotion and relationships. I loved that we learned more about Finn’s wife Karin and how their relationship developed and enjoyed meeting DC Vanessa Nash as she takes on the tough job of replacing the irreplaceable Ojo.
Highly recommended!
Thanks to Will Shindler Alainna Georgiou and Hodderbooks for my copy in return for an honest review.
January 7, 2024
3.5 Stars from me
I have done this series the disservice of not starting at book one... So I realise there is a back story that I could have benefitted from in advance of diving in, but, nonetheless, taking the story in this book on its own merits it was good but a little confusing in places.
This cold case follows two timelines, the present day and also a journey back to 2009 when there was a case of 3 abducted teenagers, Oliver Littlewood, Lee Ellis, and Jemma Vickers. Even though two of the three are eventually rescued, one is found brutally murdered and the kidnapper manages to escape - until years later when he confesses to the murder.
There is a huge amount going on in this book, including navigating the two timelines, notions of the dark web, and the multilayered seedy underbelly of society, but also there is a sea of characters to keep track of and I have to admit that I struggled to do that at times.
Towards the end of the book, most things dropped into place for me and I found the winding up of the case to be exhilarating and cleverly orchestrated.
I have done this series the disservice of not starting at book one... So I realise there is a back story that I could have benefitted from in advance of diving in, but, nonetheless, taking the story in this book on its own merits it was good but a little confusing in places.
This cold case follows two timelines, the present day and also a journey back to 2009 when there was a case of 3 abducted teenagers, Oliver Littlewood, Lee Ellis, and Jemma Vickers. Even though two of the three are eventually rescued, one is found brutally murdered and the kidnapper manages to escape - until years later when he confesses to the murder.
There is a huge amount going on in this book, including navigating the two timelines, notions of the dark web, and the multilayered seedy underbelly of society, but also there is a sea of characters to keep track of and I have to admit that I struggled to do that at times.
Towards the end of the book, most things dropped into place for me and I found the winding up of the case to be exhilarating and cleverly orchestrated.
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