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Detective Rob Miller #7
The Marlow Murders
Debby Morris, mother of two, goes to a Christmas party at historic Hollyhock Manor in Marlow, and never comes home.
A MISSING MOTHER.
Her phone, handbag and Santa’s elf hat are found in a park near the River Thames. The police issue a nationwide search, but Debby is nowhere to be found.
Three weeks later, Debby’s body, still in her elf costume, is discovered five miles downstream from where she disappeared.
A DETECTIVE ON THE BRINK.
Detective Rob Miller is pulled from compassionate leave and put in charge. He’s still reeling from his last botched case, and he knows all eyes are on him — waiting to see if he’ll crack.
Meanwhile, another body is found with their throat slashed . . . and a link is discovered between the two cases that changes everything.
A RACE AGAINST TIME TO STOP A KILLER.
Rob and his team will need to pull out all the stops to catch a twisted killer before anyone else dies.
A MISSING MOTHER.
Her phone, handbag and Santa’s elf hat are found in a park near the River Thames. The police issue a nationwide search, but Debby is nowhere to be found.
Three weeks later, Debby’s body, still in her elf costume, is discovered five miles downstream from where she disappeared.
A DETECTIVE ON THE BRINK.
Detective Rob Miller is pulled from compassionate leave and put in charge. He’s still reeling from his last botched case, and he knows all eyes are on him — waiting to see if he’ll crack.
Meanwhile, another body is found with their throat slashed . . . and a link is discovered between the two cases that changes everything.
A RACE AGAINST TIME TO STOP A KILLER.
Rob and his team will need to pull out all the stops to catch a twisted killer before anyone else dies.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2023
532 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Biba Pearce
45 books248 followersBiba Pearce is a British crime writer and author of the DCI Rob Miller series.
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Visit her at bibapearce.com to sign up to her mailing list and receive a FREE ebook!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
October 10, 2023
DCI Rob Miller #7
Debby Morris, mother of two, gores to a Christmas party at the historic Hollyhock Manor in Marlow, and never comes home. Her phone, handbag and elf hat are found at a park near the River Thames. The police issue a nationwide search, but Debby is not found. Is this a planned disappearance, or something more sinister? Then Debby's body, still in her elf costume, is discovered five miles downstream from where she disappeared. But the circumstances around Debby's death are murkier than the Thames in which she was found.
DCI Rob Miller and his team are investigating a murder. We are introduced to a new character, PC Victor Trent, who I really liked. The plot is multilayered. The characters are well-developed. Journalist Claire Marlow is determined to find out the truth behind the murders. Although this is the seventh book in this series, it could be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #BibaPearce for my ARC of #TheMarlowMurders in exchange for an honest review.
Debby Morris, mother of two, gores to a Christmas party at the historic Hollyhock Manor in Marlow, and never comes home. Her phone, handbag and elf hat are found at a park near the River Thames. The police issue a nationwide search, but Debby is not found. Is this a planned disappearance, or something more sinister? Then Debby's body, still in her elf costume, is discovered five miles downstream from where she disappeared. But the circumstances around Debby's death are murkier than the Thames in which she was found.
DCI Rob Miller and his team are investigating a murder. We are introduced to a new character, PC Victor Trent, who I really liked. The plot is multilayered. The characters are well-developed. Journalist Claire Marlow is determined to find out the truth behind the murders. Although this is the seventh book in this series, it could be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #BibaPearce for my ARC of #TheMarlowMurders in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2023
Elf hats, Christmas parties, and murders!
Well this was intriguing! A missing woman with nothing to go on but a Christmas elf hat and a mobile phone discarded near a bench down by the river towpath at Marlow in the Thames Valley.
What looks like a missing person turns into a more complex murder, which is just the beginning. There’s a host of moving parts and people who just might have a reason for harming the missing woman. How to uncover the truth is the challenge.
DCI Rob Miller and his disbanded crew from the Major Investigation Team of the Met. Police Headquarters are called back together to solve the case—quickly! (That’s another story, that includes Rob’s partner Jo)
I found this tale intriguing, and full of deft twists. So much so that I feel the need to explore the rest of the series.
Well paced, tense and surprising!
A Joffe Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Well this was intriguing! A missing woman with nothing to go on but a Christmas elf hat and a mobile phone discarded near a bench down by the river towpath at Marlow in the Thames Valley.
What looks like a missing person turns into a more complex murder, which is just the beginning. There’s a host of moving parts and people who just might have a reason for harming the missing woman. How to uncover the truth is the challenge.
DCI Rob Miller and his disbanded crew from the Major Investigation Team of the Met. Police Headquarters are called back together to solve the case—quickly! (That’s another story, that includes Rob’s partner Jo)
I found this tale intriguing, and full of deft twists. So much so that I feel the need to explore the rest of the series.
Well paced, tense and surprising!
A Joffe Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
October 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. So twisty which I love. It grabbed me immediately and was so thrilling. Worth more than 5 stars. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
October 7, 2023
Marlow Buckinghamshire book seven, with DCI Rob Miller another brilliant mystery from this author.
Old Barry Wilson walking his greyhound Halley, sniffing around a bench, he saw a pixie elf hat someone must have dropped it after a Christmas party, also a phone with a woman and twin boys on it, he had best take them to the police station and hand them in. Arriving home with Halley watching TV there is the face of missing woman Debby Morris that was on the phone so he rang the station, Debby had been reported after she attended a charity party in Marlow and never made it home. It's another three weeks before a body in a elf costume is found floating in the Thames.
DCI Miller is called back to work three weeks before Christmas after been absent for six months meets up with PC Trent from the Thames valley team as this has now become a major investigation job, has she fallen, or gone in on purpose, or was someone lurking in the shadows waiting, Accident Suicide or Murder.
The busy time of the year and the forces are out to question how has this happened and why leading to a few guilty suspects keeping Rob busy.
I loved it.
Old Barry Wilson walking his greyhound Halley, sniffing around a bench, he saw a pixie elf hat someone must have dropped it after a Christmas party, also a phone with a woman and twin boys on it, he had best take them to the police station and hand them in. Arriving home with Halley watching TV there is the face of missing woman Debby Morris that was on the phone so he rang the station, Debby had been reported after she attended a charity party in Marlow and never made it home. It's another three weeks before a body in a elf costume is found floating in the Thames.
DCI Miller is called back to work three weeks before Christmas after been absent for six months meets up with PC Trent from the Thames valley team as this has now become a major investigation job, has she fallen, or gone in on purpose, or was someone lurking in the shadows waiting, Accident Suicide or Murder.
The busy time of the year and the forces are out to question how has this happened and why leading to a few guilty suspects keeping Rob busy.
I loved it.
October 24, 2023
The Marlow Town Murders by Biba Pearce .
I received this book as an ARC (advanced reader copy from the author.)
It is officially available today for purchase !! Highly suggest you grab a copy !
https://a.co/d/iualFtB
Mother of twin boys Debby Morris is last seen at a charity Christmas Party. She never came home.
The morning after the party a man walking his dog along the River Thames , finds an elf hat and a cell phone with a picture on the screen of a young woman with two twin babies.
Later that night while watching the news he sees a woman went missing from a charity Christmas do , the woman looks identical and to that of the phone he turned into the police.
Three weeks later a body of a woman in an elf costume is found in the river .
The scandals involved in her murder go deeper than the River Thames.
This is the 7th book in the DCI Miller series, but you can definitely read this without having read any of the others!
The only problem with this book is that now I am done it , I will have to wait for the next thriller that Biba Pearce writes. 🤞
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Biba Pearce
I received this book as an ARC (advanced reader copy from the author.)
It is officially available today for purchase !! Highly suggest you grab a copy !
https://a.co/d/iualFtB
Mother of twin boys Debby Morris is last seen at a charity Christmas Party. She never came home.
The morning after the party a man walking his dog along the River Thames , finds an elf hat and a cell phone with a picture on the screen of a young woman with two twin babies.
Later that night while watching the news he sees a woman went missing from a charity Christmas do , the woman looks identical and to that of the phone he turned into the police.
Three weeks later a body of a woman in an elf costume is found in the river .
The scandals involved in her murder go deeper than the River Thames.
This is the 7th book in the DCI Miller series, but you can definitely read this without having read any of the others!
The only problem with this book is that now I am done it , I will have to wait for the next thriller that Biba Pearce writes. 🤞
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Biba Pearce
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2023
So many bumps in the road that finally lead to the right murderers and the reasons why it all happened. But not before we are taken on one wild and dangerous ride. So many characters to point the finger at. In the end DCI Miller gets is right and sets the record straight.
Highly Recommended.
Highly Recommended.
March 1, 2024
Another great read in the Rob Miller series. Totally engaging, and I love that this is set around the area where I have always lived. The police procedural, as ever, was great to follow, and though I had a good idea who the killer was, I was never totally sure until the author finally revealed it.
November 6, 2023
A well plotted, gripping and entertaining mystery that kept hooked and guessing.
Loved it
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Loved it
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 23, 2024
Biba Pearce writes a great police procedural with her DCI Rob Miller who is instantly likeable. This seems like a simple murder, a young woman who left a party and never made it home. They are expecting this to be sexual crime but they couldn't be more wrong. This was one of those books where I was shouting at the cops to check out certain things. I love a book I can really get absorbed into and can try to work out the clues that will lead to the murderer. In this story I had worked out the why but not the who, their identity turned out to be a total shock. An enjoyable read, I look forward to the next one.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
November 20, 2023
In the run up to Christmas, young mother Debby Morris goes missing on her way home from a Festive get-together at Hollyhock Manor, Marlow. Her elf hat and mobile phone are found near the tow path the next morning, but she has vanished without a trace. Three weeks later, a woman's body is pulled from the freezing Thames: clad in an elf costume, there is no doubt that it belongs to the missing woman.
DCI Rob Miller is called upon to take responsibility for the investigation, even though he is still on extended leave following the repercussions of the Soho Killer case, and the crime is outside the usual jurisdiction of the Met's Major Incident Team. The word from above is not to ruffle the feathers of the affluent town's influential residents who attended the Hollyhock Manor event, but when one of the suspects turns up dead, it becomes inevitable that Miller will have to dig into the lives of Marlow's elite... even though it means putting the future of his team on the line.
The Marlow Murders picks up six months after the shocking events of The Soho Killer, which uncovered a monster - and almost lost Miller the woman he loves. This can be read as a standalone, but it is so much better if you have read the previous books, especially The Soho Killer, which plays a big part in how this investigation plays out - it is an absolute corker too!
Dragged back early from leave, Miller is forced to tread more carefully than his usual MO in this case, and politics complicates both the investigation and the relationship between Miller and his boss Felicity Mayhew. The legacy of the Soho Killer case overshadows the team, and Miller's personal feelings about being back at work, and they are under pressure to wrap up the investigation quickly. As multiple lines of enquiry throw up intriguing leads about the indiscretions of those who wish to keep their secrets, the story develops in classic Pearce style, holding you fast until damning truths about corruption and sins of the past hit you right between the eyes in a luscious twist and twist again ending.
One of my favourite things about Pearce's DCI Miller books is the way she draws her characters, especially the relationships within Miller's team and with his partner Jo. This story in particular carries a big emotional punch due to the events of the Soho Killer case, and although this means Jo is more in the background than normal, it does provide Pearce with an opportunity to allow Miller's boss Mayhew a bigger part in the story. I really enjoyed getting to know Mayhew better in this book, and loved the interplay with Miller and the new character PC Trent, who I hope we get to see more of in the future. There are fabulous Christmas thriller vibes too, which are perfect for this time of year.
Biba Pearce has been one of my favourite crime writer discoveries over the last couple of years. If you are a fan of a well constructed crime story which combines gripping police procedural plotlines with an engaging cast of characters, then you will find this series a treat - especially if you live along the course of the river Thames, which is always a character in its own right in these books. I am already looking forward to book eight!
DCI Rob Miller is called upon to take responsibility for the investigation, even though he is still on extended leave following the repercussions of the Soho Killer case, and the crime is outside the usual jurisdiction of the Met's Major Incident Team. The word from above is not to ruffle the feathers of the affluent town's influential residents who attended the Hollyhock Manor event, but when one of the suspects turns up dead, it becomes inevitable that Miller will have to dig into the lives of Marlow's elite... even though it means putting the future of his team on the line.
The Marlow Murders picks up six months after the shocking events of The Soho Killer, which uncovered a monster - and almost lost Miller the woman he loves. This can be read as a standalone, but it is so much better if you have read the previous books, especially The Soho Killer, which plays a big part in how this investigation plays out - it is an absolute corker too!
Dragged back early from leave, Miller is forced to tread more carefully than his usual MO in this case, and politics complicates both the investigation and the relationship between Miller and his boss Felicity Mayhew. The legacy of the Soho Killer case overshadows the team, and Miller's personal feelings about being back at work, and they are under pressure to wrap up the investigation quickly. As multiple lines of enquiry throw up intriguing leads about the indiscretions of those who wish to keep their secrets, the story develops in classic Pearce style, holding you fast until damning truths about corruption and sins of the past hit you right between the eyes in a luscious twist and twist again ending.
One of my favourite things about Pearce's DCI Miller books is the way she draws her characters, especially the relationships within Miller's team and with his partner Jo. This story in particular carries a big emotional punch due to the events of the Soho Killer case, and although this means Jo is more in the background than normal, it does provide Pearce with an opportunity to allow Miller's boss Mayhew a bigger part in the story. I really enjoyed getting to know Mayhew better in this book, and loved the interplay with Miller and the new character PC Trent, who I hope we get to see more of in the future. There are fabulous Christmas thriller vibes too, which are perfect for this time of year.
Biba Pearce has been one of my favourite crime writer discoveries over the last couple of years. If you are a fan of a well constructed crime story which combines gripping police procedural plotlines with an engaging cast of characters, then you will find this series a treat - especially if you live along the course of the river Thames, which is always a character in its own right in these books. I am already looking forward to book eight!
January 5, 2024
Missing person shows up dead with more people dying by knives in a London suburb - 4.5 stars
What makes this mystery special is the variety of deaths with police personnel nearby. The time between late November and Boxing Day is the background for Rob Miller and his Major Investigation Team (MIT) at Scotland Yard. The death of a relative of a high-ranking investigator shifts the responsibility from rural Marlow to London as the investigation begins.
The first body shows up floating in a marsh three weeks after she disappears. As the investigation continues, the husband, business associates, wealthy and well-connected people each get scrutiny as the press and social media post about the sensational crimes. Six months previously, the same MIT had employed an independent investigator who turned out to be a serial killer; internal corruption and police management review made rough going for the MIT. Rob Miller had used a blunt approach and needed to show more consideration, especially towards politically well-connected individuals.
As the investigators split out their inquiries, a holiday party, marital infidelity, business connections, a member of parliament, and even a high-ranking police commissioner get their stories checked and rechecked. What seemed to be an innocent party for top contributors to a small charity blossoms to include several related support personnel.
Secrets, small and large, become the breakouts of the investigation. One particularly exciting scene involved a knife attack in which the perpetrator ran out the back door and barely escaped capture by swimming across a fast-moving river.
Whoever you may have expected, including one locked-up suspect, gets turned around several times until the crime is understood and confessions are heard, even with a solicitor (lawyer) present in one case. The last surprise is in Rob's personal life.
This drama is truly a "who done it" as there were multiple suspects, various plausible perpetrators, and a case or two for courtrooms to consider extenuating circumstances. I enjoyed this fast-paced tale.
What makes this mystery special is the variety of deaths with police personnel nearby. The time between late November and Boxing Day is the background for Rob Miller and his Major Investigation Team (MIT) at Scotland Yard. The death of a relative of a high-ranking investigator shifts the responsibility from rural Marlow to London as the investigation begins.
The first body shows up floating in a marsh three weeks after she disappears. As the investigation continues, the husband, business associates, wealthy and well-connected people each get scrutiny as the press and social media post about the sensational crimes. Six months previously, the same MIT had employed an independent investigator who turned out to be a serial killer; internal corruption and police management review made rough going for the MIT. Rob Miller had used a blunt approach and needed to show more consideration, especially towards politically well-connected individuals.
As the investigators split out their inquiries, a holiday party, marital infidelity, business connections, a member of parliament, and even a high-ranking police commissioner get their stories checked and rechecked. What seemed to be an innocent party for top contributors to a small charity blossoms to include several related support personnel.
Secrets, small and large, become the breakouts of the investigation. One particularly exciting scene involved a knife attack in which the perpetrator ran out the back door and barely escaped capture by swimming across a fast-moving river.
Whoever you may have expected, including one locked-up suspect, gets turned around several times until the crime is understood and confessions are heard, even with a solicitor (lawyer) present in one case. The last surprise is in Rob's personal life.
This drama is truly a "who done it" as there were multiple suspects, various plausible perpetrators, and a case or two for courtrooms to consider extenuating circumstances. I enjoyed this fast-paced tale.
October 18, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of The Marlow Murders, the seventh novel to feature DCI Rob Miller of the Met’s Murder Investigation Team, based in Putney.
Debby Morris goes missing in Marlow after attending an early Christmas party, with the only trace of her, her elf hat and phone, found in a local park. Three weeks later her body is found in the Thames, miles from where she disappeared. Rob Miller is vaguely aware of the case, but as he is on leave after his last case he hasn’t paid much attention, especially as it is in another jurisdiction, so he is surprised to called back from leave to lead the investigation.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Marlow Murders, which is a straightforward police procedural, well, as straightforward as complicated investigations get, with an interesting plot and likeable characters. I wouldn’t say it was full of twists and turns, more surprises at the way the investigation goes, as the genre doesn’t really suit big twists being more of a relentless search for facts to build a case.
The novel follows the usual format with theories formed and discarded as more information comes to light, suspects ruled in or out, standard dodgy behaviour from many of the partygoers, more murders and determined detectives. The devil, as they say, is in the detail and the author has created a very readable novel which makes the reader puzzle over the whole who and why, while offering plenty of possibilities. I don’t think that I would have ever guessed the outcome in advance as it relies on late breaking and sensational information to make sense. Still, it’s a great finish that ties up the loose ends in a quite unusual fashion.
I wasn’t overly enthusiastic about Rob Miller when I started this series, but he’s grown on me and now I look forward to his next case. He’s matured, both as a detective and a family man and now it appears as a mentor with him taking newbie PC Victor Trent under his wing.
The Marlow Murders is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Debby Morris goes missing in Marlow after attending an early Christmas party, with the only trace of her, her elf hat and phone, found in a local park. Three weeks later her body is found in the Thames, miles from where she disappeared. Rob Miller is vaguely aware of the case, but as he is on leave after his last case he hasn’t paid much attention, especially as it is in another jurisdiction, so he is surprised to called back from leave to lead the investigation.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Marlow Murders, which is a straightforward police procedural, well, as straightforward as complicated investigations get, with an interesting plot and likeable characters. I wouldn’t say it was full of twists and turns, more surprises at the way the investigation goes, as the genre doesn’t really suit big twists being more of a relentless search for facts to build a case.
The novel follows the usual format with theories formed and discarded as more information comes to light, suspects ruled in or out, standard dodgy behaviour from many of the partygoers, more murders and determined detectives. The devil, as they say, is in the detail and the author has created a very readable novel which makes the reader puzzle over the whole who and why, while offering plenty of possibilities. I don’t think that I would have ever guessed the outcome in advance as it relies on late breaking and sensational information to make sense. Still, it’s a great finish that ties up the loose ends in a quite unusual fashion.
I wasn’t overly enthusiastic about Rob Miller when I started this series, but he’s grown on me and now I look forward to his next case. He’s matured, both as a detective and a family man and now it appears as a mentor with him taking newbie PC Victor Trent under his wing.
The Marlow Murders is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 21, 2023
The Marlow Murders is book seven in the Detective Rob Miller series. I haven't read any of the previous books and am usually loathe to begin a series part way through, but by the time I'd read the first couple of chapters, I was hooked and there was no turning back.
Biba Pearce expertly provides some of Rob Miller's back story, especially throughout the beginning of the story. It wasn't laboured and it didn't feel as though she was going over old ground, she merely let the reader know a little about his past, just as one would expect in a standalone story. The joy of a Detective series is that it is the current investigation that is central to the plot, and whilst Miller and his team are a leading part, it's the mysterious discovery of the body of young mother Debby Morris that really intrigues.
Miller arrives in Marlow, tasked with taking on the case of Debby Morris. A few noses are put out of joint as it's really not the Met's area, but people in high places are eager to get this solved quickly. For Rob it's a difficult task, he and his team have been suspended for months due to serious issues that arose with their last case. It has affected him deeply, especially as his family were involved. However, he's a good cop and is determined to see this case through to the end.
It's a fascinating plot line, with echoes of recent real-life events that were featured heavily in our media. As Rob and his team, accompanied by young PC Victor Trent from the Marlow station begin to dig deeply into Debby's movements on the night that she went to a Christmas party and didn't return home, they uncover many things. Debby's husband, Ian is central to the investigation, and they also discover that there are important people who may be hiding things.
Biba Pearce has produced an authentic and very atmospheric crime story. The cold, dark setting, along a river bank with the piercing cold and frozen ground are so well described and the characterisation is superb. I enjoyed this one very much and will certainly look out for more by this author
Biba Pearce expertly provides some of Rob Miller's back story, especially throughout the beginning of the story. It wasn't laboured and it didn't feel as though she was going over old ground, she merely let the reader know a little about his past, just as one would expect in a standalone story. The joy of a Detective series is that it is the current investigation that is central to the plot, and whilst Miller and his team are a leading part, it's the mysterious discovery of the body of young mother Debby Morris that really intrigues.
Miller arrives in Marlow, tasked with taking on the case of Debby Morris. A few noses are put out of joint as it's really not the Met's area, but people in high places are eager to get this solved quickly. For Rob it's a difficult task, he and his team have been suspended for months due to serious issues that arose with their last case. It has affected him deeply, especially as his family were involved. However, he's a good cop and is determined to see this case through to the end.
It's a fascinating plot line, with echoes of recent real-life events that were featured heavily in our media. As Rob and his team, accompanied by young PC Victor Trent from the Marlow station begin to dig deeply into Debby's movements on the night that she went to a Christmas party and didn't return home, they uncover many things. Debby's husband, Ian is central to the investigation, and they also discover that there are important people who may be hiding things.
Biba Pearce has produced an authentic and very atmospheric crime story. The cold, dark setting, along a river bank with the piercing cold and frozen ground are so well described and the characterisation is superb. I enjoyed this one very much and will certainly look out for more by this author
October 24, 2023
Great story with an interesting plot.
I really did enjoy this book – another one of Biba Pearce’s best. It was very well written, all the characters are so believable, and the plot was intense and intriguing. There were quite a few twists and there were several occasions when I thought I had worked out who the killer was only to become aware that this was incorrect. I love the way that DCI Miller and his team are determined to ensure that the correct person is locked up for the murder and when he feels that they have the wrong person he won’t be swayed into an easy conviction. He stands up for what he believes in and will go against his superiors to ensure that justice is correctly served. Fortunately, he has the support of his immediate boss, even after their previous case where Rob’s trust was misplaced in his former friend. This was a complicated case with three murders to solve – all of which appeared to be connected but the police had no way of proving it. The motives for all three seemed to be hard to find and, although having initially suspected that there was only one killer, it eventually became clear that this was probably not the case. It took all the DCI’s powers of observation to finally work out exactly what had happened, even after he thought he had solved two of the murders he realised that he was wrong, and he finally figured out exactly what had gone on and was able to get two convictions and tie up all the loose ends. I also enjoy the family side to Rob’s life – it’s great to see him settled with Jo and his son Jack, and obviously Trigger is a great member of the family. What makes it even better is that this story was set in a lovely part of the country and the addition of it being Christmas was just perfect, especially at the very end of the story. Thank you so much to the author herself for sending me a copy to read and review – I was very grateful for the opportunity.
I really did enjoy this book – another one of Biba Pearce’s best. It was very well written, all the characters are so believable, and the plot was intense and intriguing. There were quite a few twists and there were several occasions when I thought I had worked out who the killer was only to become aware that this was incorrect. I love the way that DCI Miller and his team are determined to ensure that the correct person is locked up for the murder and when he feels that they have the wrong person he won’t be swayed into an easy conviction. He stands up for what he believes in and will go against his superiors to ensure that justice is correctly served. Fortunately, he has the support of his immediate boss, even after their previous case where Rob’s trust was misplaced in his former friend. This was a complicated case with three murders to solve – all of which appeared to be connected but the police had no way of proving it. The motives for all three seemed to be hard to find and, although having initially suspected that there was only one killer, it eventually became clear that this was probably not the case. It took all the DCI’s powers of observation to finally work out exactly what had happened, even after he thought he had solved two of the murders he realised that he was wrong, and he finally figured out exactly what had gone on and was able to get two convictions and tie up all the loose ends. I also enjoy the family side to Rob’s life – it’s great to see him settled with Jo and his son Jack, and obviously Trigger is a great member of the family. What makes it even better is that this story was set in a lovely part of the country and the addition of it being Christmas was just perfect, especially at the very end of the story. Thank you so much to the author herself for sending me a copy to read and review – I was very grateful for the opportunity.
January 7, 2024
When the body of Debbie Morris is found floating in the river Thames, DCI Rob Miller currently on compassionate leave, is called in as SIO. It is six months since Rob was suspended over his last case in which he had placed misguided trust in the wrong person, and which had resulted in his partner Jo being stabbed.
Arriving at the scene he finds PC Victor Trent, who had left his police tape in his car a quarter of a mile back, doing his best to control the gathering crowds of onlookers and press.
Debby Morris, mother of twins had been reported missing more than a month earlier. Last seen at a charity Christmas party, run by Dame Constance Blanchard, at the historic Hollyhock Manor in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, owned by billionaire Roman Petrovic. A dog walker had found Debbe’s phone, handbag, and Santa's elf hat in a park near the river Thames a couple of days later, but despite a police nationwide search, she was not found. Now she is discovered still in her elf costume, five miles downstream from where she disappeared. Was it suicide? Was it an accident? Was she pushed?
The first port of call was to the husband, Ian Morris who says he was away in Oxford that day. Next the people at the party. And so, the investigation continued. The question Rob wants answered is who saw Debbie leave the party. It appears no one did!
This is the seventh book in the series but the first I have read. Something I must remedy. All the characters are well fleshed out. I particularly liked PC Victor Trent. He had a shaky start but came up trumps in the end.
In all good mysteries people have secrets. Some that go far back into the past. But truth has a way of surfacing. Cleverly and intricately plotted this is a page turner that kept me guessing to the end. Highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
Arriving at the scene he finds PC Victor Trent, who had left his police tape in his car a quarter of a mile back, doing his best to control the gathering crowds of onlookers and press.
Debby Morris, mother of twins had been reported missing more than a month earlier. Last seen at a charity Christmas party, run by Dame Constance Blanchard, at the historic Hollyhock Manor in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, owned by billionaire Roman Petrovic. A dog walker had found Debbe’s phone, handbag, and Santa's elf hat in a park near the river Thames a couple of days later, but despite a police nationwide search, she was not found. Now she is discovered still in her elf costume, five miles downstream from where she disappeared. Was it suicide? Was it an accident? Was she pushed?
The first port of call was to the husband, Ian Morris who says he was away in Oxford that day. Next the people at the party. And so, the investigation continued. The question Rob wants answered is who saw Debbie leave the party. It appears no one did!
This is the seventh book in the series but the first I have read. Something I must remedy. All the characters are well fleshed out. I particularly liked PC Victor Trent. He had a shaky start but came up trumps in the end.
In all good mysteries people have secrets. Some that go far back into the past. But truth has a way of surfacing. Cleverly and intricately plotted this is a page turner that kept me guessing to the end. Highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
December 25, 2025
This is book 7 of the DCI Rob Miller series and am liking it very much! A man out walking his dog found a phone, a bag and an elf hat by a bench so he reports this to the local police station. A man rings his local police station and reports that his wife didn't come home last night and he is very worried as he cannot get in touch with her. The officer said he would log it.
Then a body of a young woman has been found floating in the river, a young police officer who is in the area turns up and there are now a number of people at the site and taking pictures of the dead woman. He is alone and desperate for backup but it will be a while to reach him. He has to think on his feet and then the cavalry arrives in the form of DCI Miller, who is surprised at how good the young man is handling this. When the no named lady is in the hands of the pathologist Miller discovers that there was a phone call made the previous day about a missing woman who had gone to her work's do in an elf outfit including a hat. He was livid at the offhand way her disappearance was handled. However he and his team, now including the borrowed PC Trent, are hitting the ground running to find out who could have possibly murdered this likeable good at her job young woman.
The case moves on swiftly after this and I love how ingenious Miller is and how serious he is in hitting the ground running with this investigation, he has a lot of red herrings to contend with and a lot of bigwigs in the way but he does move fast. Well his whole team moves fast and even his grumpy boss Mayhew inwardly admits he is good. They do find the murderer whom I did wonder if he was in the running to be the lucky guy Miller's team caught!! Excellent storyline I loved it, which is rather a strange thing to say about a murdered young woman but at least there was a good ending with a satisfactory conclusion.
Then a body of a young woman has been found floating in the river, a young police officer who is in the area turns up and there are now a number of people at the site and taking pictures of the dead woman. He is alone and desperate for backup but it will be a while to reach him. He has to think on his feet and then the cavalry arrives in the form of DCI Miller, who is surprised at how good the young man is handling this. When the no named lady is in the hands of the pathologist Miller discovers that there was a phone call made the previous day about a missing woman who had gone to her work's do in an elf outfit including a hat. He was livid at the offhand way her disappearance was handled. However he and his team, now including the borrowed PC Trent, are hitting the ground running to find out who could have possibly murdered this likeable good at her job young woman.
The case moves on swiftly after this and I love how ingenious Miller is and how serious he is in hitting the ground running with this investigation, he has a lot of red herrings to contend with and a lot of bigwigs in the way but he does move fast. Well his whole team moves fast and even his grumpy boss Mayhew inwardly admits he is good. They do find the murderer whom I did wonder if he was in the running to be the lucky guy Miller's team caught!! Excellent storyline I loved it, which is rather a strange thing to say about a murdered young woman but at least there was a good ending with a satisfactory conclusion.
October 24, 2023
Heading: Downright Brilliant!
I really love this series, yet another fantastic story by Biba, in the DCI Rob Miller series this being book number 7 and again is so engrossing it keeps you turning pages without any thought on time and you go straight in no skipping of pages and it keeps you glued to every word and page.
DCI Rob and his team are reluctantly brought back from suspension by his boss Debbie Morris when a missing person and goddaughter of the police Chief superintendent is found dead in the river Thames. Reluctantly Rob takes over the investigation from Thames Valley police as the lead Investigator into Debby Morris mother of two boy’s death, who at the time was attending a “Life giving Foundation Party dressed as an pixie.
Things start off difficult with Debbie’s body found four miles downriver from the scene and with the local police being taken off what they consider their case but Rob brings PC Trent into the investigation to bridge the gap between the two departments.
So with his team they start processing and looking for suspects who are a plenty. But one in particular comes into the frame who is subsequently charged just to get the case all sewn up to make higher ups look good. However the deeper Rob and his team dig Rob has his doubts and does what he does best, go with his gut and dig deeper until the truth and culprit is found and charged.
So many false trials and twists and turns keep you guessing. A highly entertaining and enjoyable book as always and written with believable characters, storyline and a very addictive story. “I loved it and everything Biba writes!” a book not to be missed and although being book 7 in a series you can definitely enjoy and read as a one off!
I really love this series, yet another fantastic story by Biba, in the DCI Rob Miller series this being book number 7 and again is so engrossing it keeps you turning pages without any thought on time and you go straight in no skipping of pages and it keeps you glued to every word and page.
DCI Rob and his team are reluctantly brought back from suspension by his boss Debbie Morris when a missing person and goddaughter of the police Chief superintendent is found dead in the river Thames. Reluctantly Rob takes over the investigation from Thames Valley police as the lead Investigator into Debby Morris mother of two boy’s death, who at the time was attending a “Life giving Foundation Party dressed as an pixie.
Things start off difficult with Debbie’s body found four miles downriver from the scene and with the local police being taken off what they consider their case but Rob brings PC Trent into the investigation to bridge the gap between the two departments.
So with his team they start processing and looking for suspects who are a plenty. But one in particular comes into the frame who is subsequently charged just to get the case all sewn up to make higher ups look good. However the deeper Rob and his team dig Rob has his doubts and does what he does best, go with his gut and dig deeper until the truth and culprit is found and charged.
So many false trials and twists and turns keep you guessing. A highly entertaining and enjoyable book as always and written with believable characters, storyline and a very addictive story. “I loved it and everything Biba writes!” a book not to be missed and although being book 7 in a series you can definitely enjoy and read as a one off!
October 24, 2023
This is the seventh book in Biba Pearce's "Detective Rob Miller" series and they just keep getting better.
When the body of a young woman, dressed in an elf outfit, is pulled from the shallow waters of the Thames, DCI Rob Miller of the Mets Major Investigation Team isn't unduly concerned, it's Thames Valley Police's patch.........until it isn't.
Debby Morris just happens to be the Chief Superintendent's Goddaughter and he wanted the best team on it, Thames Valley wouldn't be amused.
Debby Morris worked for a charity and she had been attending a charity Christmas party at Hollyhock Manor, home of Serbian billionaire Roman Petrovic.
The first officer on the scene was rooky PC Victor Trent from the Thames Valley PD. PC Trent was completely out of his comfort zone but Rob saw something in him and offered him a job helping with the investigation, Victor Trent was eager, he could learn a lot from Rob.
Rob had returned to work after a long absence, a case that had nearly broken him and almost claimed the life of his partner, Jo, this put Rob's life into perspective, no one would hurt Jo or his son, Jack, again.
As with all Biba Pearce's stories, the suspects are many, the prime suspect was Debby's husband, he had a motive but Rob wasn't convinced, the suspects included billionaires and aristocrats amongst others, who wanted Debby Morris dead and why ?
Rob's boss, Felicity Mayhew, wanted a quick result, her career rested on this case not going belly up, would she take the easy route or would she listen to Rob whose last case had been a disaster.
This is a great story with twists and turns that I didn't see coming, Biba Pearce's characters are so likeable, I couldn't put this book down.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
When the body of a young woman, dressed in an elf outfit, is pulled from the shallow waters of the Thames, DCI Rob Miller of the Mets Major Investigation Team isn't unduly concerned, it's Thames Valley Police's patch.........until it isn't.
Debby Morris just happens to be the Chief Superintendent's Goddaughter and he wanted the best team on it, Thames Valley wouldn't be amused.
Debby Morris worked for a charity and she had been attending a charity Christmas party at Hollyhock Manor, home of Serbian billionaire Roman Petrovic.
The first officer on the scene was rooky PC Victor Trent from the Thames Valley PD. PC Trent was completely out of his comfort zone but Rob saw something in him and offered him a job helping with the investigation, Victor Trent was eager, he could learn a lot from Rob.
Rob had returned to work after a long absence, a case that had nearly broken him and almost claimed the life of his partner, Jo, this put Rob's life into perspective, no one would hurt Jo or his son, Jack, again.
As with all Biba Pearce's stories, the suspects are many, the prime suspect was Debby's husband, he had a motive but Rob wasn't convinced, the suspects included billionaires and aristocrats amongst others, who wanted Debby Morris dead and why ?
Rob's boss, Felicity Mayhew, wanted a quick result, her career rested on this case not going belly up, would she take the easy route or would she listen to Rob whose last case had been a disaster.
This is a great story with twists and turns that I didn't see coming, Biba Pearce's characters are so likeable, I couldn't put this book down.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
October 28, 2023
Since the devastating events at the end of their last case six months ago, DCI Rob Miller and his entire team at the Met’s MIT in Putney have been investigated and found to have done nothing wrong concerning the murderous profiler. Rob is part way through an extra two months’ leave to care for Jo who is now well on the mend. A woman has been reported missing after attending a charity Christmas party hosted by a local celebrity and held at the mansion of a shady foreign businessman. Only her phone and elf hat were found by a dogwalker in a park near the river in Marlow. Three weeks later her body is fished out of the Thames a few miles away. The case should belong to Thames Valley Police but the Chief Super is the victim’s godfather and wants his own people to investigate. Miller gets the call and soon is back at work with his team of DS Jenny Bird, DS Harry Malhotra, DS Will Freemont and DC Celeste Parker, assisted by the very intuitive young PC Victor Trent from Marlow. The post mortem soon proves Debby Morris was murdered and with a strong suspect in the cells, it looks like case closed. But what if they have the wrong man? With all eyes on the team and a host of influential people involved, all of whom are lying, Miller knows they cannot afford any more mistakes and vows to get it right, even if that means keeping Supt Mayhew in the dark.
This is an excellent police procedural and a great addition to a smashing series. The plot is clever and full of surprises, and features a very likeable team of detectives, especially Trent who I think we will be seeing more of. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can recommend it for anyone who wants a gripping read to keep them completely hooked!
This is an excellent police procedural and a great addition to a smashing series. The plot is clever and full of surprises, and features a very likeable team of detectives, especially Trent who I think we will be seeing more of. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can recommend it for anyone who wants a gripping read to keep them completely hooked!
October 6, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this eARC.
I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books so far in the authors Rob Miller series and this one is no different. It certainly hit the ground running with a start that immediately pulled me into the story. Miller and his team investigate a murder and follow all leads. I really liked the introduction of a new character, who in my opinion is a fab addition to the team and I look forward to seeing more from them in the future. The story is, as always, well written, engaging and flows easily. It had my interest and attention all the way through and I think the pacing is spot on. I really like the main character here and like how his character has developed over time. I love the snippets into his home and personal life that really round his character out nicely. I didn't have a clue who the murderer was and felt like I was unwrapping layer upon layer of secrets, lies and deceit at times and all became apparent and fell into place towards the end of the book with everything being tied up nicely. And what a great ending!! I would recommend this if you're a fan of police procedurals although if you've not read any of the previous books in this series you're best to start at the beginning and work your way through. Overall a great read and another excellent addition to a series that is fast becoming one of my favourites.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books so far in the authors Rob Miller series and this one is no different. It certainly hit the ground running with a start that immediately pulled me into the story. Miller and his team investigate a murder and follow all leads. I really liked the introduction of a new character, who in my opinion is a fab addition to the team and I look forward to seeing more from them in the future. The story is, as always, well written, engaging and flows easily. It had my interest and attention all the way through and I think the pacing is spot on. I really like the main character here and like how his character has developed over time. I love the snippets into his home and personal life that really round his character out nicely. I didn't have a clue who the murderer was and felt like I was unwrapping layer upon layer of secrets, lies and deceit at times and all became apparent and fell into place towards the end of the book with everything being tied up nicely. And what a great ending!! I would recommend this if you're a fan of police procedurals although if you've not read any of the previous books in this series you're best to start at the beginning and work your way through. Overall a great read and another excellent addition to a series that is fast becoming one of my favourites.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 24, 2023
Book 7 of this excellent DCI Rob Miller Series and another great read. It is approaching Christmas and whilst Miller is still on suspension following his recent trauma (see Book 6) he receives a call from his boss asking him and his team back to deal with a suspected murder. A body has been found in the river at Marlow and he and his team are needed. But they are dealing with influential figures in the community and are told not to upset the proverbial apple cart. Whilst this can be read as a stand-alone I definitely recommend reading at least book 6 as it provides a lot of background to this book.
Briefly, the dead woman had been missing for three weeks. She was the Treasurer for a Charity and was attending a charity event when she disappeared. Suspicion falls on her husband who won’t provide an alibi. After a second murder he is arrested and charged. Miller is not satisfied though and finds himself questioning the motives of the husband and others.
There are some interesting suspects in this case. A Baroness, an MP and a suspected Serbian gun runner are all on the radar and everyone seems to be hiding secrets. Miller is a great character and he isn’t dealing well with the political constraints being placed on his shoulders. I love the team dynamics here and PC Trent is a welcome addition. Full of excellent twists and turns, and misdirection, this is a great police procedural that I read in a day, so entertaining.
Briefly, the dead woman had been missing for three weeks. She was the Treasurer for a Charity and was attending a charity event when she disappeared. Suspicion falls on her husband who won’t provide an alibi. After a second murder he is arrested and charged. Miller is not satisfied though and finds himself questioning the motives of the husband and others.
There are some interesting suspects in this case. A Baroness, an MP and a suspected Serbian gun runner are all on the radar and everyone seems to be hiding secrets. Miller is a great character and he isn’t dealing well with the political constraints being placed on his shoulders. I love the team dynamics here and PC Trent is a welcome addition. Full of excellent twists and turns, and misdirection, this is a great police procedural that I read in a day, so entertaining.
July 26, 2024
The Marlow Murders is Biba Pearce’s latest book in the police procedural series, based around the Thames River, featuring the eminently likeable DCI Rob Miller.
In the pre-Christmas party season, Debby Morris, a young mother of twins goes missing from a festive fancy dress at Hollyhock Manor in Marlow. A dog walker finds her mobile and elf hat near the towpath, but there is no sign of Debby. Tragically, a woman’s body is discovered in the Thames almost three weeks later. The body is wearing an elf costume and is subsequently identified as Debby.
DCI Rob Miller’s MIT is instructed to take charge of the investigation. This is despite him still being on extended compassionate leave following the events in the series' previous book, The Soho Killer.
Unfortunately for Rob, he is hindered in his investigation as some of Marlow’s most influential characters were also at the Hollyhock Manor shindig. Being mindful of this, Rob sets out to tread a careful path, but then one of his prime suspects also ends up dead and Rob realises that Debby’s murder may just be the tip of the iceberg and there is something much more devious and corrupt at play.
This book features a twisty and complicated plot, which never gets too dry. All the characters are well drawn. We see a lot of Rob’s emotional side, but it never gets too mawkish. A satisfying quest for justice runs through the book, and I like that everything is tied up at the end, but not in a rushed way.
Four stars from me.
In the pre-Christmas party season, Debby Morris, a young mother of twins goes missing from a festive fancy dress at Hollyhock Manor in Marlow. A dog walker finds her mobile and elf hat near the towpath, but there is no sign of Debby. Tragically, a woman’s body is discovered in the Thames almost three weeks later. The body is wearing an elf costume and is subsequently identified as Debby.
DCI Rob Miller’s MIT is instructed to take charge of the investigation. This is despite him still being on extended compassionate leave following the events in the series' previous book, The Soho Killer.
Unfortunately for Rob, he is hindered in his investigation as some of Marlow’s most influential characters were also at the Hollyhock Manor shindig. Being mindful of this, Rob sets out to tread a careful path, but then one of his prime suspects also ends up dead and Rob realises that Debby’s murder may just be the tip of the iceberg and there is something much more devious and corrupt at play.
This book features a twisty and complicated plot, which never gets too dry. All the characters are well drawn. We see a lot of Rob’s emotional side, but it never gets too mawkish. A satisfying quest for justice runs through the book, and I like that everything is tied up at the end, but not in a rushed way.
Four stars from me.
October 8, 2023
A woman is found dead, as ever, by a dog walker. A week or so beforehand her hat from her fancy dress outfit and phone were found under a bench. It appeared she had been to a charity Christmas party and never made it home. Detective Rob Miller is called back to work after having time off, following his wife having a horrendous attack in their home. His whole team were suspended pending investigation, when a consultant they were using turned rogue so now they are still trying to pick up the pieces. When someone else is killed with a potential link to the first murder, it can’t be coincidence, Marlow surely can’t have two murderers at the same time?
This is a wonderful read and one I really enjoyed. There is great characterisation and a well thought out plot that keeps the pages turning easily. Although book seven in a series this does stand alone- I haven’t read all of the others. It’s very well written and very engaging, with the odd smile here and there. I liked the introduction of PC Trent who came across as a great character, a foil to Rob in many ways. A brilliant police procedural with a multi-dimensional plot that kept me guessing right the way through. Loved this.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter or Threads @nickisbookblog
This is a wonderful read and one I really enjoyed. There is great characterisation and a well thought out plot that keeps the pages turning easily. Although book seven in a series this does stand alone- I haven’t read all of the others. It’s very well written and very engaging, with the odd smile here and there. I liked the introduction of PC Trent who came across as a great character, a foil to Rob in many ways. A brilliant police procedural with a multi-dimensional plot that kept me guessing right the way through. Loved this.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter or Threads @nickisbookblog
November 18, 2023
I received this book for review purposes through Netgalley and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Joffe Books is one of the finest publishers of crime mysteries that I have come across in my many years of reading the genre. I'm glad to see their authors featured on Netgalley and intend to focus heavily on their works published over next year. That being said, this is my first Biba Pierce book. Yes, I know. It won't be my last, for sure!
The Marlow Murders is seventh in the DCI Rob Miller series. I would recommend going back to the series start but this book missed nothing and I was able to follow the thread of characters quite easily. It's time. After a hiatus from detective work, DCI Rob Miller is called back to the job when the body of a young woman is discovered, presumed drowned. Still troubled by the attack on his partner Jo, there's no room for second guessing or error. The case will take this detective all he has in the days up to Christmas as the suspects are to be handled very carefully and his career hangs in the balance.
Excellent storyline and thoroughly enjoyable mystery. It left me wanting more from the author. I'm looking forward to tackling her backlist and the next in this series will be much anticipated.
Joffe Books is one of the finest publishers of crime mysteries that I have come across in my many years of reading the genre. I'm glad to see their authors featured on Netgalley and intend to focus heavily on their works published over next year. That being said, this is my first Biba Pierce book. Yes, I know. It won't be my last, for sure!
The Marlow Murders is seventh in the DCI Rob Miller series. I would recommend going back to the series start but this book missed nothing and I was able to follow the thread of characters quite easily. It's time. After a hiatus from detective work, DCI Rob Miller is called back to the job when the body of a young woman is discovered, presumed drowned. Still troubled by the attack on his partner Jo, there's no room for second guessing or error. The case will take this detective all he has in the days up to Christmas as the suspects are to be handled very carefully and his career hangs in the balance.
Excellent storyline and thoroughly enjoyable mystery. It left me wanting more from the author. I'm looking forward to tackling her backlist and the next in this series will be much anticipated.
October 18, 2023
4.5⭐
DCI Rob Miller is back six months on from the horrific events in THE SOHO KILLER he's physically and mentally beaten and reluctantly back on the job.
Tasked with finding the killer of Debby Morris. Who was last seen at a Christmas Party and is later found floating in the Thames.
But Rob isn't sure he's ready and he knows he and the team are on thin ice, especially if they get this one wrong.
And as the investigation begins Rob soon learns just how many high-profile names were in attendance including his boss's boss, an MP and a Dame.
But none of them seem to have a motive to kill Debby.
Or do they?
And then the event planner is murdered and all eyes turn to Debby's husband.
Which pleases Rob's boss immensely. Only he isn't so sure and he's determined to keep investigating.
But can he find the real killer before they strike again?
And with big twists and a killer I did not expect. This was a cracking read. That I genuinely found hard to put down and this is a series I would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Marlow Murders. 😊
DCI Rob Miller is back six months on from the horrific events in THE SOHO KILLER he's physically and mentally beaten and reluctantly back on the job.
Tasked with finding the killer of Debby Morris. Who was last seen at a Christmas Party and is later found floating in the Thames.
But Rob isn't sure he's ready and he knows he and the team are on thin ice, especially if they get this one wrong.
And as the investigation begins Rob soon learns just how many high-profile names were in attendance including his boss's boss, an MP and a Dame.
But none of them seem to have a motive to kill Debby.
Or do they?
And then the event planner is murdered and all eyes turn to Debby's husband.
Which pleases Rob's boss immensely. Only he isn't so sure and he's determined to keep investigating.
But can he find the real killer before they strike again?
And with big twists and a killer I did not expect. This was a cracking read. That I genuinely found hard to put down and this is a series I would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Marlow Murders. 😊
October 8, 2023
Netgalley review - Thanks to Netgalley for giving me a copy to read and give an honest review. This is the first in this series that I have read. I enjoyed it. It reminded me of the many British mysteries I watch. This one involves a DCI Rob Miller who with his team gets involved in a murder that took place in Marlow. When a young woman leaves a charity Christmas party and is found dead, his team is pulled in to investigate because the young woman is a god daughter to one of his higher ups. He and his team had to prove themselves because of being reprimanded for something that happened in the previous book. He has been off work for several months, his partner had her throat cut but survived and the two of them now have a baby. All the while his supervisor, fears that there will be another fiasco that will make them all look bad. There were several suspects and I enjoyed how the author slowly put the pieces together. This was an enjoyable read and would recommend to anyone who loves a good British mystery.
October 24, 2023
The Marlow Murders by Biba Pearce is the seventh book in her DCI Rob Miller series. A young mother goes missing on her way home from a Christmas party, and when a dog walker (where would crime fiction be without dog walkers?) finds her hat and phone close to the river and a body is eventually found, a murder enquiry is launched.
Police resources and funding being what they are, there is pressure to make a quick arrest, and although there are several suspects, one seems to have plenty circumstantial evidence against them and is charged. However Miller is not convinced they have the right person, so continues investigating.
A well constructed police procedural with plenty subtle clues cleverly scattered through the book, none enough to make you realise who is guilty, yet together enough so that when the big reveal comes you think, "Oh, of COURSE!".
A very enjoyable read. My only slight criticism is the title, which sounds as if it is a "cosy murder" book, but luckily the cover counteracts this and reflects the true grittiness of the story.
Police resources and funding being what they are, there is pressure to make a quick arrest, and although there are several suspects, one seems to have plenty circumstantial evidence against them and is charged. However Miller is not convinced they have the right person, so continues investigating.
A well constructed police procedural with plenty subtle clues cleverly scattered through the book, none enough to make you realise who is guilty, yet together enough so that when the big reveal comes you think, "Oh, of COURSE!".
A very enjoyable read. My only slight criticism is the title, which sounds as if it is a "cosy murder" book, but luckily the cover counteracts this and reflects the true grittiness of the story.
October 6, 2023
Who killed Debby Morris? Dressed in a holiday elf costume, the young mother was found floating in the Thames. She had been attacked on her way home from a charity Christmas party. Young, ambitious constable Victor Trent is assigned to handle the onlookers until DCI Rob Miller can take over. There is no lack of suspects. Her husband. The mysterious Serbian arms dealer who hosted the party. A jealous party planner. A Member of Parliament. And more. But as Miller and Trent walk a fine line between interviewing suspects and interfering in police and government politics, there’s another murder. Now the pressure is on to solve this complicated case.
The Marlow Murders is simply excellent. It’s a superb, well written police procedural with a multilayered plot and dynamic characters. I can’t wait to read the next in this series. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books and Biba Pearce for this ARC.
The Marlow Murders is simply excellent. It’s a superb, well written police procedural with a multilayered plot and dynamic characters. I can’t wait to read the next in this series. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books and Biba Pearce for this ARC.
October 13, 2023
I absolutely loved this. I read it so quickly and if work didn't get in the way, it would have been read in a day. Rob is brought back early from his leave when the body of a woman who had been missing, turns up in the river. After it's determined it is a murder case, Rob and his team take the lead on the investigation.
Something obviously happened at a charity Christmas dinner to start off the events leading to the murder of Debby Morris. When a second woman is murdered who also was at the party, things ramp up. There's a lot of connected people involved to add to the intrigue. A new character is introduced here, PC Trent, and I immediately warmed to him. There's a few twists along the way to keep you guessing and I enjoyed how things wrapped up.
This is a terrific series that just gets better and better. My thanks to Joffe Books for a copy of this and this is my honest review.
Something obviously happened at a charity Christmas dinner to start off the events leading to the murder of Debby Morris. When a second woman is murdered who also was at the party, things ramp up. There's a lot of connected people involved to add to the intrigue. A new character is introduced here, PC Trent, and I immediately warmed to him. There's a few twists along the way to keep you guessing and I enjoyed how things wrapped up.
This is a terrific series that just gets better and better. My thanks to Joffe Books for a copy of this and this is my honest review.
September 16, 2025
This is the second book in this series that I have read, the seventh book and I enjoyed it immensely.
The story is immersive and tells of a young women who goes missing, it takes up Detective Rob Miller’s story, after being off duty since his last big case which didn’t go well when he unwittingly brought a deadly force to the investigation, on his return to work. Rob is a good detective and he soon gets back into his job and along with his team, who are delighted he’s back, do their utmost to find out what happened to Debbie. So when another body is found things take an unexpected turn!
Finding connections turns the investigation in an altogether new direction. Will Rob and the team find out what happened? Will they stop the murderer before another crime is committed?
I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment, book eight in the series, which is sitting quietly on my TBR shelf.
This is a book and series I would happily recommend.
Book: Purchased Rating 3.5-4*
The story is immersive and tells of a young women who goes missing, it takes up Detective Rob Miller’s story, after being off duty since his last big case which didn’t go well when he unwittingly brought a deadly force to the investigation, on his return to work. Rob is a good detective and he soon gets back into his job and along with his team, who are delighted he’s back, do their utmost to find out what happened to Debbie. So when another body is found things take an unexpected turn!
Finding connections turns the investigation in an altogether new direction. Will Rob and the team find out what happened? Will they stop the murderer before another crime is committed?
I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment, book eight in the series, which is sitting quietly on my TBR shelf.
This is a book and series I would happily recommend.
Book: Purchased Rating 3.5-4*
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