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DI James Walker #3
The Winter Killer
Christmas has arrived in Cumbria, and wedding bells are ringing.
But an ice-cold killer is waiting in the fells…
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished.
When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong…
Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body.
Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question who?
The most chilling crime thriller you’ll read this winter, perfect for fans of Catherine Cooper’s The Chalet and Simon McCleave’s The Snowdonia Killings – and anyone who prefers their mince pies with a side of murder.
But an ice-cold killer is waiting in the fells…
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished.
When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong…
Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body.
Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question who?
The most chilling crime thriller you’ll read this winter, perfect for fans of Catherine Cooper’s The Chalet and Simon McCleave’s The Snowdonia Killings – and anyone who prefers their mince pies with a side of murder.
Audible Audio
First published October 13, 2022
361 people are currently reading
2851 people want to read
About the author
Alex Pine
11 books255 followersAlex Pine was born and raised on a council estate in South London and left school at sixteen. Before long, he embarked on a career in journalism, which took him all over the world – many of the stories he covered were crime-related. Among his favourite hobbies are hiking and water-based activities, so he and his family have spent lots of holidays in the Lake District. He now lives with his wife on a marina close to the New Forest on the South Coast – providing him with the best of both worlds!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 475 reviews
October 13, 2022
DI James Walker is looking forward to seeing in the New year with his wife and baby daughter, when he gets a call from DC Jessica Abbott who is attending a wedding at ‘The Fells’ a prestigious Hotel in Cumbria with her fiancé. The owner of the chain of hotels is getting married to Libby Elliot. Her Maid of honour, her sister Rachel has gone missing, when the investigate they find evidence of foul play on the pier. They have a pretty good idea that they will find her body in the Lake. DI Walker heads the investigation to find Rachel’s killer. She was not liked much by others. So, who disliked her that much to killer her and what is the motive for her death?
The Winter Killer is the third in the DI James Walker series from Alex Pine and another excellent episode in the series. I have read the previous two books in the series and really enjoyed then, so I was excited to receive the next instalment and it didn’t disappoint. This is a well-paced whodunnit with full of suspense, that I couldn’t put down. As there was a lot of suspects in Rachel’s murder case, the author does well at keeping you entertained with a lot of red herrings and mis directions. This is another excellent read and looking forward to the next instalment in the series. 5 stars from me.
The Winter Killer is the third in the DI James Walker series from Alex Pine and another excellent episode in the series. I have read the previous two books in the series and really enjoyed then, so I was excited to receive the next instalment and it didn’t disappoint. This is a well-paced whodunnit with full of suspense, that I couldn’t put down. As there was a lot of suspects in Rachel’s murder case, the author does well at keeping you entertained with a lot of red herrings and mis directions. This is another excellent read and looking forward to the next instalment in the series. 5 stars from me.
July 31, 2025
This is a Police Mystery, and this is the third book in the DI James Walker series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book, but I do think this book could be read as a standalone without any problems. I really loved the beginning of this book because I loved the hotel setting. This book kept me guessing, and I did part of the reveal. I did enjoy the ending of this book. The characters take some time to really get to know. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Avon) or author (Alex Pine) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
September 26, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up
DI James Walker #3
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. during the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride's sister has vanished. When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honor, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong. Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body.
This is another great thriller by the author. What should have been the best day of her life, Libby's wedding turns into a murder investigation. All the potential suspects are her wedding guests. This is a fast paced, gripping read with plenty of twist and turns. DI James Walker and his team know they won't be spending the New Year holidays the way they had planned. I was pulled into this story at the beginning, and it held my attention throughout. This series gets better with each new book. This book could be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #AlexPine for my ARC of #TheWinterKiller in exchange for an honest review.
DI James Walker #3
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. during the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride's sister has vanished. When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honor, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong. Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body.
This is another great thriller by the author. What should have been the best day of her life, Libby's wedding turns into a murder investigation. All the potential suspects are her wedding guests. This is a fast paced, gripping read with plenty of twist and turns. DI James Walker and his team know they won't be spending the New Year holidays the way they had planned. I was pulled into this story at the beginning, and it held my attention throughout. This series gets better with each new book. This book could be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #AlexPine for my ARC of #TheWinterKiller in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Great cover!
This was a quick and entertaining read. Well written and paced. The mystery had plenty of twists and red herrings and kept me guessing until the very end. The characters (most of them) were all quite likable. The ending was wrapped up in a satisfying way. What more can you ask for? 😂
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This was a quick and entertaining read. Well written and paced. The mystery had plenty of twists and red herrings and kept me guessing until the very end. The characters (most of them) were all quite likable. The ending was wrapped up in a satisfying way. What more can you ask for? 😂
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 9, 2023
Alex Pine's winter themed suspense mysteries are starting to grow on me. Cold blooded killers were a recurring theme in book 1 & 2 but book 3 is slightly different. There was no hint of serial killing but a more domestic case than what the description had me believe. Nonetheless this was an enjoyable book almost like a cozy mystery but with much more malice! The plot was interesting right from the start to the end. The middle was only a slight bit dragging but DI Walker with his team sure did see the case to the end. I like how we get glimpses of Walker's personal life with every book & it would be interesting to see what the next installment has in store for the Cumbrian detective and his team!
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture & Alex Pine for an arc!
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture & Alex Pine for an arc!
December 6, 2022
This is the third book in the DI James Walker series and I loved the first two so I was super excited to read this one!
One of the Team is at a wedding on New Year’s Eve when the brides sister goes missing. DI Walker is called in to investigate a suspected murder and he begins to question the wedding guests to identify suspects.
This was fast paced and very gripping with short chapters which I always enjoy. There were lots of red herrings and I suspected almost every character at some point throughout the book and it kept me guessing all the way through! I did suspect the correct person, however didn’t work out the whole story so I was shocked at the end which I enjoyed!
4⭐️ from me and I would definitely recommend this series as a series or stand alones!!
One of the Team is at a wedding on New Year’s Eve when the brides sister goes missing. DI Walker is called in to investigate a suspected murder and he begins to question the wedding guests to identify suspects.
This was fast paced and very gripping with short chapters which I always enjoy. There were lots of red herrings and I suspected almost every character at some point throughout the book and it kept me guessing all the way through! I did suspect the correct person, however didn’t work out the whole story so I was shocked at the end which I enjoyed!
4⭐️ from me and I would definitely recommend this series as a series or stand alones!!
November 9, 2022
I found this quite slow and plodding i was quite disappointed in this one. I didn’t njoynthis as much as I hoped which is a shame. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
December 7, 2022
Overview: This was a great festive read with my reading buddy. I read the first two books in this series last December so was excited to see that this came out last month. As usual I didn't guess the killer. I never do with these books because the author is very clever at throwing numerous red herrings and constantly throwing new suspects into the mix.
Good points: I enjoyed the crime element of this book and the ever changing plot and new developments. It certainly keeps you guessing. The plot was really gripping and interesting and unusual. I haven't read a thriller based around a wedding before.
Not so good points: I did have a few minor issues which bugged me. The whole "guv" thing...if you have read this book then you'll know what I mean. I find Annie (James's wife) a redundant character. All she seems to do is be at home to feed him and bring him a whiskey whenever he walks through the door. Ick. The suspects and characters in this book seriously need to get a grip and tell the truth when asked by the police. Let them do their job properly! Yeesh!
All in all a great crime thriller series and finishes on a nice ending so I hope there is another book in the works!
Good points: I enjoyed the crime element of this book and the ever changing plot and new developments. It certainly keeps you guessing. The plot was really gripping and interesting and unusual. I haven't read a thriller based around a wedding before.
Not so good points: I did have a few minor issues which bugged me. The whole "guv" thing...if you have read this book then you'll know what I mean. I find Annie (James's wife) a redundant character. All she seems to do is be at home to feed him and bring him a whiskey whenever he walks through the door. Ick. The suspects and characters in this book seriously need to get a grip and tell the truth when asked by the police. Let them do their job properly! Yeesh!
All in all a great crime thriller series and finishes on a nice ending so I hope there is another book in the works!
January 6, 2023
Enjoyed this, the third in the series.
Nice short chapters, so easy to read and a good twist at the end.
Nice short chapters, so easy to read and a good twist at the end.
February 6, 2025
Easy and quick read following DI James Walker and his team as they investigate another gruesome crime comitted over festive period. There's enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing who the culprit is. Good and solid read.
October 9, 2022
4.25⭐
The Winter Killer is my first introduction to author Alex Pine. But it won't be my last. As this was such an enjoyable police procedural. That grabbed me from the start and never let go, and honestly, I felt like I was in the middle of a real-life investigation as the pace of it was so relentless.
As DC Abbott is spending a relaxing New Years Eve with her fiancée Sean; attending the wedding of a mutual friend at a posh hotel on the shore of the gorgeous Lake Windermere. When she finds herself at the centre of a murder investigation after the maid of honour disappears during the reception and is later found floating in the lake.
But how did she get there? And was it an accident or murder?
And as DI Walker arrives on the scene and the investigation begins startling revelations come to light. Not only about the victim, but the family too.
But surely one of them couldn't have wanted her dead or had the time to do it.
And with tremendous pacing, appealing characters and lots of detail. This was a really enjoyable read and introduction to the series. Which I'm definitely going to read more from including the two books I've missed out on.
I would also willingly recommend this book to crime fiction fans everywhere.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
The Winter Killer is my first introduction to author Alex Pine. But it won't be my last. As this was such an enjoyable police procedural. That grabbed me from the start and never let go, and honestly, I felt like I was in the middle of a real-life investigation as the pace of it was so relentless.
As DC Abbott is spending a relaxing New Years Eve with her fiancée Sean; attending the wedding of a mutual friend at a posh hotel on the shore of the gorgeous Lake Windermere. When she finds herself at the centre of a murder investigation after the maid of honour disappears during the reception and is later found floating in the lake.
But how did she get there? And was it an accident or murder?
And as DI Walker arrives on the scene and the investigation begins startling revelations come to light. Not only about the victim, but the family too.
But surely one of them couldn't have wanted her dead or had the time to do it.
And with tremendous pacing, appealing characters and lots of detail. This was a really enjoyable read and introduction to the series. Which I'm definitely going to read more from including the two books I've missed out on.
I would also willingly recommend this book to crime fiction fans everywhere.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
October 6, 2022
A strongly developed thriller with an interesting case, The Winter Killer is a hard-to-predict investigation with a wedding-clad party full of guests to suspect.
I always find Pine's writing so easy to follow, making his thrillers quick-paced and his characters easy to engage with. DI James Walker is very to-the-point, meaning that his investigations progress quickly, and there are plenty of lies to uncover to keep you guessing.
Although the third book in the series, the book can easily be read as a standalone and there's even a character list at the start of the book to introduce you to who's who which I always find very useful.
But while The Winter Killer is a highly enjoyable book, what's let me down is the title, as it always annoys me when a thriller is promoted as being more sinister than it actually is. Because for me, there definitely wasn't enough winter or killing.
When a killer is given a nickname by the media, you expect more of a high-profile case. While the detectives had no clue who committed this crime and this is what was most striking about the case, there is only one body and there are no shocking events surrounding the case to really make the killer deserving of such a name.
I certainly couldn't predict who the killer was and I enjoyed how the story concluded, but I was just expecting more blood and more snow, so it just wasn't as exciting as the previous two instalments in the series.
I would definitely still recommend this book, especially if you want an easy thriller to read over the colder months. But if Pine intends to write a fourth book, I just hope he gets a little more daring.
Let's also make Annie a more prominent character again, as I hated to see her portrayed as the new mum, waiting for her husband to come home. She had lots more depth in the first two books but her character had absolutely no dimension this time around which was really disappointing to see.
I always find Pine's writing so easy to follow, making his thrillers quick-paced and his characters easy to engage with. DI James Walker is very to-the-point, meaning that his investigations progress quickly, and there are plenty of lies to uncover to keep you guessing.
Although the third book in the series, the book can easily be read as a standalone and there's even a character list at the start of the book to introduce you to who's who which I always find very useful.
But while The Winter Killer is a highly enjoyable book, what's let me down is the title, as it always annoys me when a thriller is promoted as being more sinister than it actually is. Because for me, there definitely wasn't enough winter or killing.
When a killer is given a nickname by the media, you expect more of a high-profile case. While the detectives had no clue who committed this crime and this is what was most striking about the case, there is only one body and there are no shocking events surrounding the case to really make the killer deserving of such a name.
I certainly couldn't predict who the killer was and I enjoyed how the story concluded, but I was just expecting more blood and more snow, so it just wasn't as exciting as the previous two instalments in the series.
I would definitely still recommend this book, especially if you want an easy thriller to read over the colder months. But if Pine intends to write a fourth book, I just hope he gets a little more daring.
Let's also make Annie a more prominent character again, as I hated to see her portrayed as the new mum, waiting for her husband to come home. She had lots more depth in the first two books but her character had absolutely no dimension this time around which was really disappointing to see.
December 13, 2022
I feel like this took me about three years to read! The first half I read really quickly, but then I put it down and didn’t pick it up for another 2 weeks. I didn’t even care how the case panned out, and then ending was like oh that happened, great. Overall I was disappointed and so bored by this book.
December 7, 2022
A bit tedious, the plot felt thin with quite a bit of padding to stretch it out and some of the police chat in it was a little cringe.
September 15, 2022
The Winter Killer
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 10/13/22
Author: Alex Pine
Publisher: Avon
GR: 4.56
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Avon and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Christmas has arrived in Cumbria, and wedding bells are ringing. But an ice-cold killer is waiting in the fells. As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished. When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong. Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body. Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question is: who?
My Thoughts: This is the third book in the DI James Walker series. While, it is nice reading all 3 novels in order, as you become acquainted with the characters, it is possible to read this as a standalone as the author does a great job at recapping the characters so you can follow along with no issues. Christmas + a dead body + a detective who stops at nothing to solve a crime + twisty twists = a great Christmas thriller! The characters are developed well with depth, mystery, intriguing, evolved from prior books, and creatively written. The author’s writing style is complex, suspenseful, twisty, and just done very well. I really enjoyed this story, it was fast paced and hard to put down. The protagonist is very well liked, which is a little different for a mystery/thriller, I loved that aspect. My only con would be the ending, while it was a great ending, it just came out of nowhere, again not bad. If you love police procedurals/thrillers, you will love this!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 10/13/22
Author: Alex Pine
Publisher: Avon
GR: 4.56
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Avon and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Christmas has arrived in Cumbria, and wedding bells are ringing. But an ice-cold killer is waiting in the fells. As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished. When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong. Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body. Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question is: who?
My Thoughts: This is the third book in the DI James Walker series. While, it is nice reading all 3 novels in order, as you become acquainted with the characters, it is possible to read this as a standalone as the author does a great job at recapping the characters so you can follow along with no issues. Christmas + a dead body + a detective who stops at nothing to solve a crime + twisty twists = a great Christmas thriller! The characters are developed well with depth, mystery, intriguing, evolved from prior books, and creatively written. The author’s writing style is complex, suspenseful, twisty, and just done very well. I really enjoyed this story, it was fast paced and hard to put down. The protagonist is very well liked, which is a little different for a mystery/thriller, I loved that aspect. My only con would be the ending, while it was a great ending, it just came out of nowhere, again not bad. If you love police procedurals/thrillers, you will love this!
November 20, 2022
I considered a lot before picking up this book because I’m not a fan of winter time + detective stories, but after going through Alex Pine’s novel, I’ happy with my decision and hope you will do too!
When I selected this book, I wasn’t aware that this was the 3rd volume in a series, but thankfully there is an intro chapter which gives an overview on who the characters are, what their relationship is, some non-spoiler highlights from the previous books and it makes the listener / reader feel confident to continue without having all the details. I think the synopsis from the cover gives just the right amount of info, so I’ll include it below for reference:
“*Christmas has arrived in Cumbria, and wedding bells are ringing.*
*But an ice-cold killer is waiting in the fells…*
*As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished.*
*When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong…*
*Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body.*
*Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question is: who?*”
From the very first pages, author Alex Pine has his talent of getting the reader to view the world (and case) from detective James Walker’s eyes with all the fast pace, urgency, and attention to details that one usually gets to experience from watching a detective movie. You could almost feel the sense of urgency and literally get in James’ shoes as he races time in an effort to find the killer. Narrator Sid Sagar was definitely a great choice to go with this novel! The way in which he gives voice to the characters makes the listener want to binge listen to the book and start all over again once you get to the end.
Really looking forward to the next book in the series and catching-up on the previous two! Happy listening / reading!
Special thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK Audio, Avon, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads!
#TheWinterKiller #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning
When I selected this book, I wasn’t aware that this was the 3rd volume in a series, but thankfully there is an intro chapter which gives an overview on who the characters are, what their relationship is, some non-spoiler highlights from the previous books and it makes the listener / reader feel confident to continue without having all the details. I think the synopsis from the cover gives just the right amount of info, so I’ll include it below for reference:
“*Christmas has arrived in Cumbria, and wedding bells are ringing.*
*But an ice-cold killer is waiting in the fells…*
*As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished.*
*When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newly-wed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong…*
*Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body.*
*Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question is: who?*”
From the very first pages, author Alex Pine has his talent of getting the reader to view the world (and case) from detective James Walker’s eyes with all the fast pace, urgency, and attention to details that one usually gets to experience from watching a detective movie. You could almost feel the sense of urgency and literally get in James’ shoes as he races time in an effort to find the killer. Narrator Sid Sagar was definitely a great choice to go with this novel! The way in which he gives voice to the characters makes the listener want to binge listen to the book and start all over again once you get to the end.
Really looking forward to the next book in the series and catching-up on the previous two! Happy listening / reading!
Special thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK Audio, Avon, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads!
#TheWinterKiller #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning
November 26, 2023
This is the third installment of the James Walker series and after reading the first two, I couldn't wait to get to this one. I'd planned to read it last Christmas and didn't get round to it so I made it my first Christmas read for this year.
Like the other two, it was a great police procedural and while at times it was a little slow, I really enjoyed it.
There were so many suspects in this story, and unlike with the first two, I didn't work out who it was until we were a few chapters from the end.
I'm looking forward to starting the fourth book.
Like the other two, it was a great police procedural and while at times it was a little slow, I really enjoyed it.
There were so many suspects in this story, and unlike with the first two, I didn't work out who it was until we were a few chapters from the end.
I'm looking forward to starting the fourth book.
October 21, 2022
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for approving me for an ARC of this book. This is the third book in the DI James Walker series but haven’t not read the previous two books, I can confirm it works very well as a standalone.
When one of DI Walker’s team is attending a wedding and one of the guest goes missing he is called in to handle the case. What starts as a simply missing person soon turns into a murder enquiry with many suspects.
I really enjoyed how this case unravelled and the different suspects that popped up. This the first time I’ve come across this team and I really liked how well they worked together. We didn’t have the egos or the backstabbing that has cropped up in other books. It was also refreshing to see a positive stance taken on the relationship between the police and the media.
Like a lot of readers I enjoy playing detective, trying to decipher the red herrings from the real clues and seeing if I can work out who the murderer is. Usually I am way off with my predictions and completely blindsided by the final reveal. That wasn’t the case with this one though. When I reached the half way point I had my thoughts on who was the murderer and couldn’t believe I was right when I got to the end.
I guess that is the reason for my lower rating. For me I like to be led down the garden path and shown how wrong I am in my predictions as it shows me how cleverly the murderer was concealed. Don’t’ get me wrong this is still a fast paced, gripping read that I enjoyed but it needed a little more punch to that final reveal. Would I read more books by Alex Pine? Most definitely!
When one of DI Walker’s team is attending a wedding and one of the guest goes missing he is called in to handle the case. What starts as a simply missing person soon turns into a murder enquiry with many suspects.
I really enjoyed how this case unravelled and the different suspects that popped up. This the first time I’ve come across this team and I really liked how well they worked together. We didn’t have the egos or the backstabbing that has cropped up in other books. It was also refreshing to see a positive stance taken on the relationship between the police and the media.
Like a lot of readers I enjoy playing detective, trying to decipher the red herrings from the real clues and seeing if I can work out who the murderer is. Usually I am way off with my predictions and completely blindsided by the final reveal. That wasn’t the case with this one though. When I reached the half way point I had my thoughts on who was the murderer and couldn’t believe I was right when I got to the end.
I guess that is the reason for my lower rating. For me I like to be led down the garden path and shown how wrong I am in my predictions as it shows me how cleverly the murderer was concealed. Don’t’ get me wrong this is still a fast paced, gripping read that I enjoyed but it needed a little more punch to that final reveal. Would I read more books by Alex Pine? Most definitely!
October 19, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this book
a missing bridesmaid
an abusive best man
and a missing boyfriend
on new years eve before the bells toll the new year in... a lake near the wedding venue will be being searched for the missing bridesmaid
the start of a married life and a new year does not bode well for the family attending the wedding as tempers fray and tensions mounts
a slow build up after the initial excitement at the beginning and i felt a bit frustrated key elements i felt were given away to some of the key people being questioned....
but i did want to know who the perp was in the end which was a surprise
a missing bridesmaid
an abusive best man
and a missing boyfriend
on new years eve before the bells toll the new year in... a lake near the wedding venue will be being searched for the missing bridesmaid
the start of a married life and a new year does not bode well for the family attending the wedding as tempers fray and tensions mounts
a slow build up after the initial excitement at the beginning and i felt a bit frustrated key elements i felt were given away to some of the key people being questioned....
but i did want to know who the perp was in the end which was a surprise
December 28, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4-Star Review — The Winter Killer by Alex Pine
The Winter Killer is a chilly, character-driven crime thriller that delivers a solid mystery with enough twists and atmosphere to satisfy fans of winter noir and police procedurals. Set against a frosty New Year’s celebration in Cumbria, the story throws DI James Walker into a case that begins with festive joy and quickly turns deadly.
Plot & Setting:
The novel opens during a lavish wedding at a lakeside hotel where newly-weds are celebrating on New Year’s Eve. When the bride’s sister, Rachel, leaves the reception before giving her speech and doesn’t return, alarm bells ring. Before long, the wedding celebration turns into a crime scene, with Rachel’s body discovered in the lake under suspicious circumstances. DI James Walker and his team from Cumbria Constabulary must sift through a tangled web of guests, secrets, and motives to uncover who among them is a killer.
Strengths:
✔ Engaging Mystery: The “closed-circle” feel of a wedding full of potential suspects creates an engaging whodunit that keeps you guessing. Pine plants enough red herrings and character grudges to make the investigation feel alive and unpredictable.
✔ Atmosphere: The winter setting isn’t just backdrop — the crisp Cumbrian landscape and the contrast of holiday cheer with brutal crime heighten the mood.
✔ Character Work: DI Walker is a grounded, relatable detective whose quiet persistence anchors the narrative. His interactions with colleagues and the way the case interrupts his seasonal break add dimension to his role as both investigator and person.
Areas for Improvement:
🔍 Pacing: While the investigation is compelling, some parts of the story unfold in a methodical, procedural style that may feel slower to readers expecting non-stop thrills. The focus leans more on careful clue gathering than explosive action.
🔍 Character Depth Outside Walker: Some secondary characters (like certain family members or guests) could benefit from stronger emotional arcs. A few reader reactions on community review sites note that expectations for more vivid character development weren’t fully met, especially compared to earlier books in the series.
Overall Impressions:
The Winter Killer is a solid 4-star read — it combines a clever mystery with a moody setting and a dependable lead detective. While it doesn’t quite reach the heart-pounding intensity of the very best thrillers, it delivers thoughtful plotting and satisfying resolution that will appeal to fans of DI Walker and anyone who enjoys atmospheric crime fiction during the winter season.
The Winter Killer is a chilly, character-driven crime thriller that delivers a solid mystery with enough twists and atmosphere to satisfy fans of winter noir and police procedurals. Set against a frosty New Year’s celebration in Cumbria, the story throws DI James Walker into a case that begins with festive joy and quickly turns deadly.
Plot & Setting:
The novel opens during a lavish wedding at a lakeside hotel where newly-weds are celebrating on New Year’s Eve. When the bride’s sister, Rachel, leaves the reception before giving her speech and doesn’t return, alarm bells ring. Before long, the wedding celebration turns into a crime scene, with Rachel’s body discovered in the lake under suspicious circumstances. DI James Walker and his team from Cumbria Constabulary must sift through a tangled web of guests, secrets, and motives to uncover who among them is a killer.
Strengths:
✔ Engaging Mystery: The “closed-circle” feel of a wedding full of potential suspects creates an engaging whodunit that keeps you guessing. Pine plants enough red herrings and character grudges to make the investigation feel alive and unpredictable.
✔ Atmosphere: The winter setting isn’t just backdrop — the crisp Cumbrian landscape and the contrast of holiday cheer with brutal crime heighten the mood.
✔ Character Work: DI Walker is a grounded, relatable detective whose quiet persistence anchors the narrative. His interactions with colleagues and the way the case interrupts his seasonal break add dimension to his role as both investigator and person.
Areas for Improvement:
🔍 Pacing: While the investigation is compelling, some parts of the story unfold in a methodical, procedural style that may feel slower to readers expecting non-stop thrills. The focus leans more on careful clue gathering than explosive action.
🔍 Character Depth Outside Walker: Some secondary characters (like certain family members or guests) could benefit from stronger emotional arcs. A few reader reactions on community review sites note that expectations for more vivid character development weren’t fully met, especially compared to earlier books in the series.
Overall Impressions:
The Winter Killer is a solid 4-star read — it combines a clever mystery with a moody setting and a dependable lead detective. While it doesn’t quite reach the heart-pounding intensity of the very best thrillers, it delivers thoughtful plotting and satisfying resolution that will appeal to fans of DI Walker and anyone who enjoys atmospheric crime fiction during the winter season.
December 16, 2022
The Winter Killer is the third installment in the DI James Walker series by Alex Pine. I have read the previous two books in the series, all of which are centered around the northwest county of Cumbria, England. DI James Walker has relocated from the busy Metropolitan Police department in London to the remote village of Kirkby Abbey in Cumbria. Both previous books by the author under this series are pivoted around Christmas and New year's eve when gruesome killings take place in the normally quiet and crime-free county of Cumbria and DI James Walker steps in to solve them. This book is no exception to that back-drop where another ice-cold killer is lurking in the dark waiting to strike.
DI James Walker is hoping to spend his new year's weekend with his family, when he gets a call from DC Jessica Abbott, who is attending a wedding function with her fiancee, Sean at a famous hotel in Cumbria. The owner, Greg Murphy of this chain of hotels, known as “The Fells” is getting married to Libby Elliot. Her maid of honor and sister Rachel Elliot has been reported missing since the morning breakfast and when she did not turn up until late evening, Libby began to worry and soon realized that something was very wrong. DI James Walker is heading the investigation and soon they recover her body from lake Windermere adjoining the hotel.
As the investigation commences with the autopsy of Rachel’s body and questioning all the members present at the function, he begins to realize that she was not liked by many of her own near and dear ones. Their investigation brings to light, Rachel’s mysterious boyfriend, who was a guest at the function and soon disappears into nothingness. With a few photos of the boyfriend clicked by the official cameraman, his identity is shrouded in mystery. DI James sends out an instruction to his team to track his identity and whereabouts. Although he turns out to be a prime suspect now, they are yet to establish a motive, opportunity, and instrument of execution for the heinous crime.
What begins with a missing person soon ends in a murder inquiry with many suspects. But who is the killer? Certainly, it is one of the party guests. There are some twists and turns as the investigation progresses with one revelation leading to the other, and many more suspects emerging. DI James and the team will have to slice and dice their findings as a matter of urgency, to eliminate some of the suspects, thus narrowing their focus to the one who would immensely benefit from Rachel’s killing. The plot has been made gripping from the very onset by the author, who has also given a brief overview of the characters and their role in the machination. Therefore, although this is the 3rd book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. This is yet another exciting crime thriller from Alex Pine and I am looking forward to the next release.
DI James Walker is hoping to spend his new year's weekend with his family, when he gets a call from DC Jessica Abbott, who is attending a wedding function with her fiancee, Sean at a famous hotel in Cumbria. The owner, Greg Murphy of this chain of hotels, known as “The Fells” is getting married to Libby Elliot. Her maid of honor and sister Rachel Elliot has been reported missing since the morning breakfast and when she did not turn up until late evening, Libby began to worry and soon realized that something was very wrong. DI James Walker is heading the investigation and soon they recover her body from lake Windermere adjoining the hotel.
As the investigation commences with the autopsy of Rachel’s body and questioning all the members present at the function, he begins to realize that she was not liked by many of her own near and dear ones. Their investigation brings to light, Rachel’s mysterious boyfriend, who was a guest at the function and soon disappears into nothingness. With a few photos of the boyfriend clicked by the official cameraman, his identity is shrouded in mystery. DI James sends out an instruction to his team to track his identity and whereabouts. Although he turns out to be a prime suspect now, they are yet to establish a motive, opportunity, and instrument of execution for the heinous crime.
What begins with a missing person soon ends in a murder inquiry with many suspects. But who is the killer? Certainly, it is one of the party guests. There are some twists and turns as the investigation progresses with one revelation leading to the other, and many more suspects emerging. DI James and the team will have to slice and dice their findings as a matter of urgency, to eliminate some of the suspects, thus narrowing their focus to the one who would immensely benefit from Rachel’s killing. The plot has been made gripping from the very onset by the author, who has also given a brief overview of the characters and their role in the machination. Therefore, although this is the 3rd book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. This is yet another exciting crime thriller from Alex Pine and I am looking forward to the next release.
December 30, 2022
Was hoping for a good read finally on the Libby App as the last four had been DNFs for me, as they were just thrillers that were too slow and could not get into. Though book #3 in the series, The Winter Killer can be read as a standalone novel. The book starts with a hint that so far it looks like this small town has escaped the Christmas curse of the past couple of years of bad murders happening. However, we get to New Year's Eve and a murder strikes as the bride's sister turns up dead. The thing though is that this wedding party is quite tight-lipped and no one seems to be in the know about how the maid of honour ended up dead and everyone is a suspect. We learn that Libby's sister Rachael was a bit of a stirrer and has a love/hate relationship with Libby. Could this be what killed her or was someone else wanting her dead? From the Italian secret boyfriend to her ex a disgraced wannabe politician or the best man who is a known abuser towards women or is it the boy next door? This was in parts a bit of a slow burn but when the killer was revealed, it did make sense. In The Winter Killer too, it talks about tarot card readings, which I have to admit is something I have always been curious about having read as it sounds fascinating and who knows what truths could lie behind the cards. As we wind down the year, let's hope for James Walker who is in line to get a promotion that next Christmas/New Year is a safe and quiet one with no murders. Just as this book rang in the New Year and for us in New Zealand it is New Year's Eve tomorrow - I wish everyone a Happy New Year and here's to 2023.
October 11, 2022
If you're into mystery, crime and detailed police procedural story, then you can give this one a try.
You can read this one without reading the first two books!
This book is well crafted with clue after clue given like bread crumbs throughout the story which build the suspense until it reach the big climax at the end.
With lots of red herrings thrown in the story, I was surprised by the big reveal at the end.
While I like most of the parts in the story with short chapters, great setting and likeable characters, I found the story a bit dragging during the middle part.
The ending also feels a bit rushed, I wish it was a bit more fleshed out cause I would like to know more of what happen next.
Overall, The Winter Killer is a good addition to this series. I really enjoy getting back to solving crime with Detective James Walker.
I'm looking forward to read the next book!
Actual rating: 3.5⭐
I received an advanced review copy for free from Netgalley, Avon Books and Alex Pine. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
You can read this one without reading the first two books!
This book is well crafted with clue after clue given like bread crumbs throughout the story which build the suspense until it reach the big climax at the end.
With lots of red herrings thrown in the story, I was surprised by the big reveal at the end.
While I like most of the parts in the story with short chapters, great setting and likeable characters, I found the story a bit dragging during the middle part.
The ending also feels a bit rushed, I wish it was a bit more fleshed out cause I would like to know more of what happen next.
Overall, The Winter Killer is a good addition to this series. I really enjoy getting back to solving crime with Detective James Walker.
I'm looking forward to read the next book!
Actual rating: 3.5⭐
I received an advanced review copy for free from Netgalley, Avon Books and Alex Pine. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2022
You do not have to read the first books in the series as it can easily be read as a standalone.
The author provides a bit of background on the main characters and it helps to make a wide view of who they are and what’s their place is within the story.
A wedding couldn’t be more beautiful in an idyllic winter setting. But unfortunately, the ending is splashed by murder.
I enjoyed the previous stories and was looking forward to this new book.
Detective Walker is a character that grew out on me throughout the series and I wanted to see how quick he can resolve this new investigation.
The pace is much faster than the others and I liked that.
The side characters are a mix of good and bad and unreliable ones. They made the whole puzzle much more interesting and added character to the story.
I guessed pretty early on who the killer was, but that didn’t deter me from carrying on reading and exposing if my theory was right.
Captivating police procedural book. Looking forward to see what case DI Walker has to solve next.
NetGalley arc
The author provides a bit of background on the main characters and it helps to make a wide view of who they are and what’s their place is within the story.
A wedding couldn’t be more beautiful in an idyllic winter setting. But unfortunately, the ending is splashed by murder.
I enjoyed the previous stories and was looking forward to this new book.
Detective Walker is a character that grew out on me throughout the series and I wanted to see how quick he can resolve this new investigation.
The pace is much faster than the others and I liked that.
The side characters are a mix of good and bad and unreliable ones. They made the whole puzzle much more interesting and added character to the story.
I guessed pretty early on who the killer was, but that didn’t deter me from carrying on reading and exposing if my theory was right.
Captivating police procedural book. Looking forward to see what case DI Walker has to solve next.
NetGalley arc
December 3, 2022
The team are celebrating Christmas in Cumbria passing uneventfully and are making New Year’s Eve plans. Many are out celebrating. DI James Walker is at home enjoying life with a young baby and his partner is attending a luxury wedding at a local hotel. Unfortunately, it isn’t long before the peace is shattered with the disappearance of one of the wedding guests.
With the discovery of items belonging to the guest found on the lakeside jetty, the signs are not good. Who could have reason to want the bride’s sister dead? Once investigations start it transpires that more than one or two of the guests might…
As with the other two books, our focus is on the case and its intricacies. Walker is at the heart of it, capably leading his team.
I had my suspicions early on, and was pleased to have guessed correctly, but this was a well-paced read which makes a good continuation of the series.
With the discovery of items belonging to the guest found on the lakeside jetty, the signs are not good. Who could have reason to want the bride’s sister dead? Once investigations start it transpires that more than one or two of the guests might…
As with the other two books, our focus is on the case and its intricacies. Walker is at the heart of it, capably leading his team.
I had my suspicions early on, and was pleased to have guessed correctly, but this was a well-paced read which makes a good continuation of the series.
October 9, 2025
3.5 stars
The Winter Killer by Alex Pine is the third in the DI James Walker police procedural series.
Okay, each book gets better. The first two were good, but this picked up the pace.
I loved the plot, and I loved how many suspects there were. Again, I guessed the perpetrator early on, but that didn't matter. There were so many other interesting characters. Some you could easily hate, but some were just sad.
I am really starting to like the core team. They are working well together. As well, I am actually liking Annie (who was so annoying in the first book). Maybe now that she has a baby to look after, she'll have other priorities.
Again, the chapters are rather short, and although there were a lot of them, it made me feel like it was a fast read.
I am still struggling a little with the series. Yes, there is suspense, and yes, it is a good police procedural. But, it is still lacking that extra bit of excitement!
However, I am looking forward to Book 4!
Anyway, until next time....
For a more thorough review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, and its author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
December 31, 2022
My final book of 2022 has been a cracking read. In this third book in the series, Walker and his Cumbrian coppers have to find the killer of the bride's sister who was murdered at her New Year's Eve wedding. Perfect novel to curl up with on New Year's Eve. I've enjoyed all the novels in this series so far and I like the twists and array of characters.
January 6, 2023
I’m really enjoying this book series. This one, yet again, did not disappoint. It was a bit long winded at times but the short chapters and the easy likeable characters keep the pages turning. Looking forward to the next book!
January 4, 2023
I really enjoy this series. Because it comes out in the fall I save if for the last book of the year, reading them around Christmas. They are perfect for the season. Excellent characters and the mysteries have yet to disappoint. Can’t wait for the next one!
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