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Every Contact Leaves a Trace: My Life as a Crime Scene Investigator
Enter the fascinating world of crime scene investigation with this chilling memoir from Jo Ward of BBC’s Forensics – the Real CSI. For most people, dead bodies are horrifying. They are the physical representation of everything we’re afraid of – our own mortality, the unknown, the inevitability and lack of dignity of the end. But for Jo Ward, a dead body is absolutely fascinating… For Jo, a normal day’s work involves getting up-close and personal with the dead – generally the murdered dead – exploring every inch of their battered and bloody bodies and finding the clues that will lead the police to their killers. Every scene teaches her something new. Every murder is a chance to obtain justice for the dead. Because every contact leaves a trace… Jo Ward is part of a generation of pioneering women who lead forensic investigation in the UK. Her investigations into high-profile crimes – murder, domestic killings, infanticide, and rape – have been the subject of a BBC Two television documentary, Forensics – the Real CSI. If you’re a fan of Sue Black and Patricia Wiltshire, Every Contact Leaves a Trace is for you. It’s a rare glimpse into a formidable woman and the world of forensics, chronicling some of Jo’s toughest and most groundbreaking cases and offering insight into how she copes despite seeing the most shocking excesses of humanity.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 11, 2024
I received a free copy of, Every Contact Leaves a Trace, by Jo Ward, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Jo Ward has a fascinating job, she is a senior crime scene investigator. Being a women and a mom has not stopped Jo from doing what she always wanted to do. Crime scene investigation is not for the weak, blood, guts, body parts, any age. any sex. This was a very good read.
June 11, 2024
4 ⭐️
A deep memoir of a forensic scientist/investigator who shares her path as well as her struggles in this profession. I feel this book humanized these people to me, as they usually seem un impacted and detached from the very stressful and horrible reality they deal with. I appreciate the opportunity to dip my head into Jo Ward’s life, such a beautiful person who went through so much and shows her insane willpower.
Thank you to the author, publisher, editor and NetGalley for letting me enjoy this work and review it!
#EveryContactLeavesATrace #NetGalley
A deep memoir of a forensic scientist/investigator who shares her path as well as her struggles in this profession. I feel this book humanized these people to me, as they usually seem un impacted and detached from the very stressful and horrible reality they deal with. I appreciate the opportunity to dip my head into Jo Ward’s life, such a beautiful person who went through so much and shows her insane willpower.
Thank you to the author, publisher, editor and NetGalley for letting me enjoy this work and review it!
#EveryContactLeavesATrace #NetGalley
May 15, 2024
A gripping memoir from a senior crime scene investigator in the UK, including how she's dealt with PTSD as a result of her job. True crime fans won't be able to put this down!
June 28, 2024
A memoir from Jo Ward of BBC’s 'Forensics – the Real CSI' a programme I am yet to watch, therefore, I read this with no preconceived ideas about the author. I was intrigued to read about their experiences seeing as, if things had been different, I would have loved to work in an adjacent forensic field as a Forensic Archaeologist.
I thought it was a really interesting read offering insight into both how CSIs carry out their jobs in the real world as opposed to the very glamourised depiction on TV & film, & the aftermath of being exposed to the very worst of human nature day after day. Ward is unflinchingly honest about the difficulties in balancing work & family life, & in dealing with PTSD. It's a vital aspect of the job & yet as Ward writes, cutbacks mean that this side of things is often not given the attention it needs. I would recommend this to anyone interested in learning more about working in forensic science.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Quarto Publishing Group/White Lion/Aurum, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
I thought it was a really interesting read offering insight into both how CSIs carry out their jobs in the real world as opposed to the very glamourised depiction on TV & film, & the aftermath of being exposed to the very worst of human nature day after day. Ward is unflinchingly honest about the difficulties in balancing work & family life, & in dealing with PTSD. It's a vital aspect of the job & yet as Ward writes, cutbacks mean that this side of things is often not given the attention it needs. I would recommend this to anyone interested in learning more about working in forensic science.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Quarto Publishing Group/White Lion/Aurum, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
December 26, 2024
Great storytelling and this book gives you a real appreciation of the work of a CSI
May 18, 2024
Jo Ward paints a very interesting picture of how forensic investigation has changed over the years. In addition, I found that her struggles with mental health and physical health (with herself, her children, and her husband) were a very nice touch to really highlight the struggles that members of the police force, in any aspect, face. Unfortunately, forensic investigators are not immune to PTSD and physical health issues or family-related issues. Therefore, I found that Ward's tell-all was incredibly fascinating. I really liked the attention to detail when describing the cases or how she felt during certain times of her life. The story-telling abilities that Jo Ward has are incredible.
However, I will be awarding this book merely three stars due to a few reasons. The first of which is that I believe the book could be edited a little bit better. There were a few grammatical and spelling errors (outside of the British dialect; those did not raise concerns, of course). Something as small as this could turn away potential readers, and I would hate for that to happen because I feel that Jo Ward's story is an important one that needs to be told. Second, I definitely struggled with some of her mentality in the book. Although I understand that we are all human and we seem to make many things about ourselves despite trying not (and I understand that this book is telling her story), I found that there were many points in the book where it seemed that the author was telling her story as if no one had ever experienced something similar. For instance, when speaking about her step-son and son's ADHD, Ward often wrote the story as if it was an uncommon thing to have happened. However, as someone of neuro-atypicality with siblings and friends who experience the same setbacks, I know that it can be challenging not having help with an unruly teenage boy with ADHD; however, this situation was not the first and will not be the last. I also understand that when raising Nathan, Ward and her husband did not have many resources and I assume there were not as many when raising Leo as well. However, there are plenty of techniques that I think would have created a better life for the two boys, but that is a personal opinion of my own that I do not feel should determine the readability of Ward's book. My last issue with the book lies in the fact that there is not much mentioned about her daughter or step-son after a certain point in the book. I felt that Ward intended to make it clear that although she was writing about her career, she wanted to implement many parts of her personal life to highlight exactly what she has gone through over the years. However, I felt that towards the end of the book, we, as readers, lost the important parts of her daughter's impact on her life. In addition, I did not enjoy the fact that Nathan was essentially cut out of the picture after he moved out. Although I know that this is not entirely Ward's fault, I wish she could have given us some insight on whether or not they reached out to him or continued to be apart of his life in any way after he moved out.
All in all, I definitely enjoyed this book despite its flaws or the author's flaws. I can definitely say that it is a compelling read due to the fact that I finished it in roughly three days, and I am sure that I will be referencing it in future essays for school due to the fact that I am studying criminology in university.
However, I will be awarding this book merely three stars due to a few reasons. The first of which is that I believe the book could be edited a little bit better. There were a few grammatical and spelling errors (outside of the British dialect; those did not raise concerns, of course). Something as small as this could turn away potential readers, and I would hate for that to happen because I feel that Jo Ward's story is an important one that needs to be told. Second, I definitely struggled with some of her mentality in the book. Although I understand that we are all human and we seem to make many things about ourselves despite trying not (and I understand that this book is telling her story), I found that there were many points in the book where it seemed that the author was telling her story as if no one had ever experienced something similar. For instance, when speaking about her step-son and son's ADHD, Ward often wrote the story as if it was an uncommon thing to have happened. However, as someone of neuro-atypicality with siblings and friends who experience the same setbacks, I know that it can be challenging not having help with an unruly teenage boy with ADHD; however, this situation was not the first and will not be the last. I also understand that when raising Nathan, Ward and her husband did not have many resources and I assume there were not as many when raising Leo as well. However, there are plenty of techniques that I think would have created a better life for the two boys, but that is a personal opinion of my own that I do not feel should determine the readability of Ward's book. My last issue with the book lies in the fact that there is not much mentioned about her daughter or step-son after a certain point in the book. I felt that Ward intended to make it clear that although she was writing about her career, she wanted to implement many parts of her personal life to highlight exactly what she has gone through over the years. However, I felt that towards the end of the book, we, as readers, lost the important parts of her daughter's impact on her life. In addition, I did not enjoy the fact that Nathan was essentially cut out of the picture after he moved out. Although I know that this is not entirely Ward's fault, I wish she could have given us some insight on whether or not they reached out to him or continued to be apart of his life in any way after he moved out.
All in all, I definitely enjoyed this book despite its flaws or the author's flaws. I can definitely say that it is a compelling read due to the fact that I finished it in roughly three days, and I am sure that I will be referencing it in future essays for school due to the fact that I am studying criminology in university.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
Every Contact Leaves a Trace by Jo Ward offers true-crime enthusiasts the chance to see what a career in the field is like behind the glimpses we see in documentaries and podcasts.
Ward details her long career as a forensic investigator and doesn't hold back. The haunting experiences she shares will stay with you, and go beyond being just a mystery to solve.
Anyone who is interested in true crime, criminal investigating or forensics would enjoy this memoir and educational reading experience.
Ward details her long career as a forensic investigator and doesn't hold back. The haunting experiences she shares will stay with you, and go beyond being just a mystery to solve.
Anyone who is interested in true crime, criminal investigating or forensics would enjoy this memoir and educational reading experience.
April 22, 2025
5/5 stars! What a cool book. This is a non-fiction memoir of a former crime scene investigator. I've always been into the true crime shows, so it was awesome to be able to read about it from someone that has actually lived it, and compare what the shows get right/wrong. This book is very graphic and honest, so be aware of that. But I thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 15, 2024
jo ward is who i want to be when i graduate
June 12, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
In the realm of true crime literature, Jo Ward’s “Every Contact Leaves a Trace” emerges as a compelling memoir that delves deep into the psyche of a seasoned crime scene investigator. Ward, with her extensive experience of nearly twenty-six years, invites readers into the meticulous world of forensic science—a domain where the smallest detail can unravel the most complex of mysteries.
The book’s title is a nod to the principle that underpins all forensic science: Locard’s Exchange Principle, which asserts that every perpetrator of a crime will bring something into the crime scene and leave with something from it. Ward’s narrative is a testament to this theory, as she meticulously recounts the traces left behind that have led to groundbreaking revelations in high-profile cases.
Ward’s prose is unflinchingly honest and vivid, sparing no detail in her descriptions of crime scenes. Yet, it is her humanistic approach that truly sets this memoir apart. She does not shy away from the emotional toll her profession takes, offering a rare glimpse into how one copes with the aftermath of confronting humanity’s darkest facets.
The memoir is both a chronicle of cases and a journey through Ward’s personal battles, including her fight against breast cancer. Her resilience in the face of adversity—both professional and personal—adds a layer of depth to her story, making it not just a book about crime scene investigation, but also about the indomitable human spirit.
“Every Contact Leaves a Trace” is a must-read for aficionados of the genre. It stands out for its authenticity, its educational value, and its profound respect for the pursuit of justice. Ward’s narrative is a tribute to all forensic investigators who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often at great personal cost, to ensure that no contact, no trace, is ever overlooked.
In the realm of true crime literature, Jo Ward’s “Every Contact Leaves a Trace” emerges as a compelling memoir that delves deep into the psyche of a seasoned crime scene investigator. Ward, with her extensive experience of nearly twenty-six years, invites readers into the meticulous world of forensic science—a domain where the smallest detail can unravel the most complex of mysteries.
The book’s title is a nod to the principle that underpins all forensic science: Locard’s Exchange Principle, which asserts that every perpetrator of a crime will bring something into the crime scene and leave with something from it. Ward’s narrative is a testament to this theory, as she meticulously recounts the traces left behind that have led to groundbreaking revelations in high-profile cases.
Ward’s prose is unflinchingly honest and vivid, sparing no detail in her descriptions of crime scenes. Yet, it is her humanistic approach that truly sets this memoir apart. She does not shy away from the emotional toll her profession takes, offering a rare glimpse into how one copes with the aftermath of confronting humanity’s darkest facets.
The memoir is both a chronicle of cases and a journey through Ward’s personal battles, including her fight against breast cancer. Her resilience in the face of adversity—both professional and personal—adds a layer of depth to her story, making it not just a book about crime scene investigation, but also about the indomitable human spirit.
“Every Contact Leaves a Trace” is a must-read for aficionados of the genre. It stands out for its authenticity, its educational value, and its profound respect for the pursuit of justice. Ward’s narrative is a tribute to all forensic investigators who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often at great personal cost, to ensure that no contact, no trace, is ever overlooked.
May 7, 2024
Briefly - A fascinating if rather chilling insight into the real CSI.
In full
I became aware of the author of this book via a recent TV series covering some of their work. I found it a fascinating subject and so was eager to learn a little more. The book opens with the basic principles of the fact that "every contact leaves a trace" and then describes the arrival at a crime scene. In part this is an autobiographical book which means that some of the book is about Jo's personal life. After looking briefly at her childhood it moves on to the fact that she joined a local athletics club (& was a good runner) and discovered an interest in/understanding of basic anatomy.
Initially Jo worked for an insurance company but that did little for her. She then applied to the police and got a job there. However an advert for a forensics role intrigued here. She does say that this would not happen any longer however before her interview she attended a post mortem examination… (she enjoyed it) and got the job. The book looks at the training she did and then working on gradually more complex crime scenes. She progresses (!) from decomposed bodies via suicides to murders. It is worth noting that while this makes for very easy reading in terms of the writing the content is not for the faint hearted and may trouble some people.
She does broaden the writing out to look at pertinent local issues as well as the difficulty of dealing with the dead and particularly children. She trains for the role of crime scene manager and a little to her surprise gets a job as one at the age of 31. She also starts a family around this time. Maybe unsurprisingly she suffers from PTSD after a particularly nasty case. Her openness about this and other aspects of her work and personal life made for a very "human" story for me.
There are the cases that will never be forgotten as well as the cutbacks on staff by managers who quite obviously do not understand the issues involved. She also looks at managing a crime scene while it's being filmed by a BBC TV crew. During this series she was open about her PTSD and was surprised (and pleased) with the feedback she got. Overall I found this to be a common sense person writing accessibly about her life and the challenging role which she so obviously enjoys. A great read for those with a taste for such things.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
In full
I became aware of the author of this book via a recent TV series covering some of their work. I found it a fascinating subject and so was eager to learn a little more. The book opens with the basic principles of the fact that "every contact leaves a trace" and then describes the arrival at a crime scene. In part this is an autobiographical book which means that some of the book is about Jo's personal life. After looking briefly at her childhood it moves on to the fact that she joined a local athletics club (& was a good runner) and discovered an interest in/understanding of basic anatomy.
Initially Jo worked for an insurance company but that did little for her. She then applied to the police and got a job there. However an advert for a forensics role intrigued here. She does say that this would not happen any longer however before her interview she attended a post mortem examination… (she enjoyed it) and got the job. The book looks at the training she did and then working on gradually more complex crime scenes. She progresses (!) from decomposed bodies via suicides to murders. It is worth noting that while this makes for very easy reading in terms of the writing the content is not for the faint hearted and may trouble some people.
She does broaden the writing out to look at pertinent local issues as well as the difficulty of dealing with the dead and particularly children. She trains for the role of crime scene manager and a little to her surprise gets a job as one at the age of 31. She also starts a family around this time. Maybe unsurprisingly she suffers from PTSD after a particularly nasty case. Her openness about this and other aspects of her work and personal life made for a very "human" story for me.
There are the cases that will never be forgotten as well as the cutbacks on staff by managers who quite obviously do not understand the issues involved. She also looks at managing a crime scene while it's being filmed by a BBC TV crew. During this series she was open about her PTSD and was surprised (and pleased) with the feedback she got. Overall I found this to be a common sense person writing accessibly about her life and the challenging role which she so obviously enjoys. A great read for those with a taste for such things.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
May 9, 2024
I love reading books from people who have worked in forensics. It’s nice to know that my experiences weren’t so different. I also like to read their case studies and personal stories. Like Jo said, the trauma from the work you do hits when you least expect it. There are three cases I still think about almost twenty years after working in the field. One was a woman who, on video, abandoned her infant to die in a dumpster. Another was a pedophile who had 150+ victims’ photos on his computer hard drive. The last was a young man who brutally murdered his grandfather because he refused to give him money. I had to look at the faces of the victims for far too long. All three cases still stick with me. I’ve seen all types of crimes, but those were the ones that made me have to take breaks so the trauma didn’t overtake me especially since I had a small child at the time. The only thing that got me through some days on those cases was knowing that I would play some small part in putting the guilty parties in prison for the rest of their lives. And that’s why we do what we do (or did, in my case). It’s not glamorous and there’s no one out there patting you on the back. But the feeling you get from helping a family get closure in whatever capacity you did is unmatched. Jo’s story was enlightening and inspiring. Were I still in the field and around younger people new to it, I would insist they read her story. It was fascinating to read and I highly recommend it for anyone who is curious what it is like working on the other side of the crime scene tape.
Huge thanks to Quarto Publishing Group/White Lion and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
Huge thanks to Quarto Publishing Group/White Lion and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
May 21, 2024
This is an absolutely captivating read. Jo dives deep into her life as a crime scene investigator with such honesty and detail that you can't help but get hooked from the first page.
What really stands out is how she often makes you feel like you're right there with her at the crime scenes, experiencing the highs and lows of the job along side her and her collegues. She shares the painstaking details of collecting evidence and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking justice for the victims and their families. It's not just about the job; it's about the real human stories behind each case.
Jo's passion for her work and family are clear. Jo is a strong woman doing her best to balance providing for her young family and ensuring she can provide justice on every case she handles, and her dedication to both shines through in her writing. Her mix of professional insight, personal anecdotes, openness about mental health and honesty around her journey into motherhood makes this book a unique and relatable read.
If you're into true crime or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes of forensic investigations, this book is a must-read. Jo's storytelling is engaging, down-to-earth, and deeply inspiring. "Every Contact Leaves a Trace" will leave you with a newfound respect for the people who work tirelessly to uncover the truth.
What really stands out is how she often makes you feel like you're right there with her at the crime scenes, experiencing the highs and lows of the job along side her and her collegues. She shares the painstaking details of collecting evidence and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking justice for the victims and their families. It's not just about the job; it's about the real human stories behind each case.
Jo's passion for her work and family are clear. Jo is a strong woman doing her best to balance providing for her young family and ensuring she can provide justice on every case she handles, and her dedication to both shines through in her writing. Her mix of professional insight, personal anecdotes, openness about mental health and honesty around her journey into motherhood makes this book a unique and relatable read.
If you're into true crime or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes of forensic investigations, this book is a must-read. Jo's storytelling is engaging, down-to-earth, and deeply inspiring. "Every Contact Leaves a Trace" will leave you with a newfound respect for the people who work tirelessly to uncover the truth.
May 5, 2024
I am an educator in forensic science, so in some ways this book was perfect for me, and in others imperfect. I will start with the imperfect. I would have liked more on the actual forensic science. I felt that some of this was watered down. Now, maybe this is because of my expertise in this subject, but I feel like the author could have done a better job of going over some of the sciences and clarifying some of the misconceptions that most of the general public has due to the prevalence of TV shows such as CSI.
However, I thought that she did an excellent job on covering the emotional aspects of being a forensic investigator. People rarely think about the impact of investigating violent crime scenes will have on a person's mental health. Mental health in First Responders and especially police officers is rarely discussed despite the fact that they tend to have some of the worst mental health. So I greatly appreciated her candid discussion on having PTSD and experiencing depression and suicidal ideation.
Overall, 4 stars. I would have liked more science because I am a scientist, but if you are not a forensic scientist this is likely the perfect amount of science for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
However, I thought that she did an excellent job on covering the emotional aspects of being a forensic investigator. People rarely think about the impact of investigating violent crime scenes will have on a person's mental health. Mental health in First Responders and especially police officers is rarely discussed despite the fact that they tend to have some of the worst mental health. So I greatly appreciated her candid discussion on having PTSD and experiencing depression and suicidal ideation.
Overall, 4 stars. I would have liked more science because I am a scientist, but if you are not a forensic scientist this is likely the perfect amount of science for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2024
I saw this recommended by a friend and knew I had to read it. I have a huge fascination with forensics anyway.
This is a brutally raw and honest account of a 25+ year as a crime scene investigator. From a young woman fighting to succeed in a male dominated environment, to seeing the worst of society, pregnancy and illness, this is fascinating.
The crimes Jo investigates, that she details, are told for a reason and split roughly into categories, whilst being chronological.
If you are slightly squeamish they may not be for you. I feel like I am not particularly bothered but some of the descriptions made me wince.
What particularly stuck out for me was still how much danger women are in. How poverty and drugs are such a huge contributor of most crime. How horrific cuts to police and forensics investigations are cutting them off at the knees.
One of the biggest focuses that's so important is on mental health. Both the impact of viewing such horror so frequently, on the police and forensic investigators. How PTSD is not a possibility but inevitability.
It also details how mental health is also a huge factor in crime and again the funding cuts have contributed to the increase in its impact.
A proper fascinating read. Highly recommended.
This is a brutally raw and honest account of a 25+ year as a crime scene investigator. From a young woman fighting to succeed in a male dominated environment, to seeing the worst of society, pregnancy and illness, this is fascinating.
The crimes Jo investigates, that she details, are told for a reason and split roughly into categories, whilst being chronological.
If you are slightly squeamish they may not be for you. I feel like I am not particularly bothered but some of the descriptions made me wince.
What particularly stuck out for me was still how much danger women are in. How poverty and drugs are such a huge contributor of most crime. How horrific cuts to police and forensics investigations are cutting them off at the knees.
One of the biggest focuses that's so important is on mental health. Both the impact of viewing such horror so frequently, on the police and forensic investigators. How PTSD is not a possibility but inevitability.
It also details how mental health is also a huge factor in crime and again the funding cuts have contributed to the increase in its impact.
A proper fascinating read. Highly recommended.
May 28, 2024
I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley but unfortunately it was archived before I had a chance to read it therefore I downloaded a free sample instead consisting of the opening chapters.
The name of the book instantly drew me in. I have a degree in applied science with forensics and my husband is a detective so this is an area very much of interest to me and I am very familiar with the underpinning principle of forensics.
I instantly loved the authors easy to read style of narrative and her overarching honestly on all levels, both personal and professional. The subject was very familiar and I felt myself nodding along in recognition of her thoughts and fears when embarking on her journey but also I found her perspective interesting to compare with my own experiences.
The opening chapters already have me hooked and I can see by the chapter breakdowns that she will cover the wide range of forensic angles. I would definitely recommend this based on what I read as having appeal both to the initiated and uninitiated reader. I’m kicking myself that I missed out on the whole book so may well seek it out after publication date.
The name of the book instantly drew me in. I have a degree in applied science with forensics and my husband is a detective so this is an area very much of interest to me and I am very familiar with the underpinning principle of forensics.
I instantly loved the authors easy to read style of narrative and her overarching honestly on all levels, both personal and professional. The subject was very familiar and I felt myself nodding along in recognition of her thoughts and fears when embarking on her journey but also I found her perspective interesting to compare with my own experiences.
The opening chapters already have me hooked and I can see by the chapter breakdowns that she will cover the wide range of forensic angles. I would definitely recommend this based on what I read as having appeal both to the initiated and uninitiated reader. I’m kicking myself that I missed out on the whole book so may well seek it out after publication date.
June 19, 2024
3.5 stars
In Every Contact Leaves a Trace, Jo Ward shares her experience as a forensic investigator. She talks about tough cases he dealt with and how she balanced her home life with the job. She also talks about where she says the future of forensics and how it is vitally important in solving crimes.
I liked this book but I found that it got a little long in the end. I enjoyed hearing Ward talk about her home life and I think it brought a personal touch to the book. I felt that the home life aspect took a backseat about 60% of the way through and then the reader hears very little about her children. I also think the cases could have been woven in a little better because some of them seemed just randomly flung in and out of place. I ended up skimming the last chapter because it did nothing for the story. Overall, an interesting read but it could have used a bit more editing.
Thank you Net Galley for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
In Every Contact Leaves a Trace, Jo Ward shares her experience as a forensic investigator. She talks about tough cases he dealt with and how she balanced her home life with the job. She also talks about where she says the future of forensics and how it is vitally important in solving crimes.
I liked this book but I found that it got a little long in the end. I enjoyed hearing Ward talk about her home life and I think it brought a personal touch to the book. I felt that the home life aspect took a backseat about 60% of the way through and then the reader hears very little about her children. I also think the cases could have been woven in a little better because some of them seemed just randomly flung in and out of place. I ended up skimming the last chapter because it did nothing for the story. Overall, an interesting read but it could have used a bit more editing.
Thank you Net Galley for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
June 20, 2024
For all those people who watch CSI and want to be a Crime Scene Investigator this is the book you need to read. It's not all glamour and doing arrests. You actually do not participate in arrests. That always bugged me when watching those shows. But that makes good tv.
This book tells Jo Ward's history and experience in the career that she loves. It is sometimes not where you want to be but someone has to do it. I'd rather someone that really cares be that person.
Ms. Ward is involved in law enforcement back before many women were and she handles it well. She explains that sometimes we will laugh or joke at something that is definitely not funny but that we will go nuts quicker if we don't expel some of the trauma.
She also describes suffering from PTSD because of the job she loves. It used to be hush hush and I'm glad it is FINALLY getting talked about. Most of us are on antidepressants just to survive.
3.5 stars
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
This book tells Jo Ward's history and experience in the career that she loves. It is sometimes not where you want to be but someone has to do it. I'd rather someone that really cares be that person.
Ms. Ward is involved in law enforcement back before many women were and she handles it well. She explains that sometimes we will laugh or joke at something that is definitely not funny but that we will go nuts quicker if we don't expel some of the trauma.
She also describes suffering from PTSD because of the job she loves. It used to be hush hush and I'm glad it is FINALLY getting talked about. Most of us are on antidepressants just to survive.
3.5 stars
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
May 22, 2024
I got a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
An incredibly well written book, on a delicate subject. The author manages to write about really quite horrible things that have sadly happened to people with care and sensitivty. Whilst there are descriptions of things that have happened, it's not ghoulish, and the bigger focus is directed towards how crime scene investigators collect evidence to hopefully his the victims justice.
The book also goes into quite a lot of detail of the authors life, and provides an insight on how this affects people who see truly awful things as part of their job. It must be hard to do a job that seems to be equal parts fascinating and disturbing.
A must read for anyone who has ever watched police tv shows and wondered if it's like that in real life.
An incredibly well written book, on a delicate subject. The author manages to write about really quite horrible things that have sadly happened to people with care and sensitivty. Whilst there are descriptions of things that have happened, it's not ghoulish, and the bigger focus is directed towards how crime scene investigators collect evidence to hopefully his the victims justice.
The book also goes into quite a lot of detail of the authors life, and provides an insight on how this affects people who see truly awful things as part of their job. It must be hard to do a job that seems to be equal parts fascinating and disturbing.
A must read for anyone who has ever watched police tv shows and wondered if it's like that in real life.
August 20, 2024
I enjoy reading books about crime and this book by Crime Scene Investigator Jo Ward is interesting and readable. She featured on the BBC series Forensics: The Real CSI which I recommend you watch if you’re interested in forensics.
This isn’t a long book and Jo covers her time as a CSI as well as giving an insight into her personal life and the struggles she has faced. It never feels self indulgent and Jo has been very candid about her struggle with PTSD. She also gives an insight into the impact of funding cuts, not only in the police service but NHS too.
Some of the cases mentioned are harrowing, but they’re dealt with sensitively and not sensationalised at all.
Jo does a good job of explaining the forensic processes and it doesn’t feel patronising.
If you like true crime and procedural books, I recommend you read this.
This isn’t a long book and Jo covers her time as a CSI as well as giving an insight into her personal life and the struggles she has faced. It never feels self indulgent and Jo has been very candid about her struggle with PTSD. She also gives an insight into the impact of funding cuts, not only in the police service but NHS too.
Some of the cases mentioned are harrowing, but they’re dealt with sensitively and not sensationalised at all.
Jo does a good job of explaining the forensic processes and it doesn’t feel patronising.
If you like true crime and procedural books, I recommend you read this.
November 11, 2024
A deep dive into the world of forensics, including the processes involved to preserve and collect the most minute traces of evidence following a crime or unexpected death.
The author, a senior crime scene investigator, describes her journey working her way up through the ranks within the police service and the various processes and challenges she has faced. Furthermore, she also focuses on the impact of the job on her mental health which is an often overlooked factor.
There are plenty of cases discussed within the book, making it an ideal read for those intrigued by this area. It gives a new found appreciation of the work of forensic investigators and the crucial role they play in the preservation and collection of evidence. I got through this book quickly, and hope she writes a follow up with more stories from her fascinating career.
The author, a senior crime scene investigator, describes her journey working her way up through the ranks within the police service and the various processes and challenges she has faced. Furthermore, she also focuses on the impact of the job on her mental health which is an often overlooked factor.
There are plenty of cases discussed within the book, making it an ideal read for those intrigued by this area. It gives a new found appreciation of the work of forensic investigators and the crucial role they play in the preservation and collection of evidence. I got through this book quickly, and hope she writes a follow up with more stories from her fascinating career.
August 25, 2025
Firstly she has a difficult job. Other than that she is a terrible parent, blames everyone but herself and repeats herself. No-one reads this type of book to find out about your personal life - we want to read about your work life - and unless you have lived in a cave for the past couple of decades you will learn absolutely nothing about forensic investigations. All the cases are no more than a few lines with no detail. She has two kids with adhd (I wonder why?) yet does absolutely nothing to help them; talks about her own sport but doesn't try even once to direct child's energy into sport or a challenging mental hobby but expects the state to do everything for her while she tries and fails to be super cop. Claims she has an overactive 3 Yr old (aren't they all?) but gives no examples. Terrible person putting her own satisfaction above others she claims to love and a pointless read.
April 28, 2024
A fantastic book.
Jo Ward is from the West Midlands UK, and has spent 25 years working as a Crime Scene Investigator.
I found this gripping, enormously interesting, and totally fascinating. It was so easy to read; not over-technical, and with vivid descriptions.
What a brilliant first chapter. This is the kind of book that really interests me. It was late at night, and I was looking for something new to read. I had a quick dip in-a bit late to carry on reading..... but I just couldn't stop.
Cases from natural causes, to gory and gruesome. Some things are so shocking. Nothing is held back in this memoir.
I'd not heard of the TV series-it's exactly the kind of thing I love to watch, and I will do-but I'm so glad I read the book first.
What a great memoir.
Jo Ward is from the West Midlands UK, and has spent 25 years working as a Crime Scene Investigator.
I found this gripping, enormously interesting, and totally fascinating. It was so easy to read; not over-technical, and with vivid descriptions.
What a brilliant first chapter. This is the kind of book that really interests me. It was late at night, and I was looking for something new to read. I had a quick dip in-a bit late to carry on reading..... but I just couldn't stop.
Cases from natural causes, to gory and gruesome. Some things are so shocking. Nothing is held back in this memoir.
I'd not heard of the TV series-it's exactly the kind of thing I love to watch, and I will do-but I'm so glad I read the book first.
What a great memoir.
November 12, 2025
I grabbed this from the Kindle library because I was curious about what a forensic investigator actually does. And I was right, it was interesting!
I didn't love the book, though. I’m not entirely sure why. Maybe it felt a bit too detached (which the author explains is a necessary coping mechanism for the job). Or perhaps it just didn't flow as well as it could have.
I didn’t see the TV documentary the book is apparently tied to, so maybe coming at it without that background hindered my reading. Or maybe my expectations were just glamorised by CSI and Silent Witness!
I think I’d have liked fewer cases and more depth to the ones included. I wanted to know how the evidence stacked up, or what they learned as they investigated. That detail is there, but it felt a little glossed over.
I didn't love the book, though. I’m not entirely sure why. Maybe it felt a bit too detached (which the author explains is a necessary coping mechanism for the job). Or perhaps it just didn't flow as well as it could have.
I didn’t see the TV documentary the book is apparently tied to, so maybe coming at it without that background hindered my reading. Or maybe my expectations were just glamorised by CSI and Silent Witness!
I think I’d have liked fewer cases and more depth to the ones included. I wanted to know how the evidence stacked up, or what they learned as they investigated. That detail is there, but it felt a little glossed over.
August 5, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – White Lion | Aurum books for a free copy for review. This was a fascinating look a CSI's real job, as to what is portrayed on television. This book intersperses Jo Ward's career stories with her home and family life. Jo Ward explains in detail about putting on PPE (personal protective equipment) prior to entering homes to assess dead bodies and needing to shower (sometimes multiple times) so others and family members wouldn't know the stench you were surrounded with earlier that day. The author describes her first autopsy. It's not all fun and games and the CSI in not involved in the arrests like seen in the shows.
May 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this book 😊 the author found a great balance of giving us the gory details (which is what I want!!) and her home life as well. This things this author has gone through!! What a Queen!! 👸🏼 she really highlights the mental health issues faced in policing and that no one speaks up. It was interesting to read how the support for our policing staff in the UK have gone from barely any support to a lot more now. I also enjoyed learning more about what crime scene investigators do, it was very interesting. A solid 4 star read!
July 24, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and delving into the world of forensics and crime scene investigations. The descriptions of scenes attended are harrowing, and it goes into great depth on how this impacts on the author’s mental health. It is an eye-opener on how the role works within the police force, and also into how they too are seriously affected by budget cuts, reduction in staffing and yet having to deal with more and more violent crime. It certainly satiated my inquisitive nature.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Please note - I use the rating system purely for my personal memory - marking 5 to those which books I was absolutely unable to put down through to 1 being a book I didn’t enjoy.
Ratings should not be taken to heart and are no means intended to upset the author. I acknowledge all of your hard work each and every time!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Please note - I use the rating system purely for my personal memory - marking 5 to those which books I was absolutely unable to put down through to 1 being a book I didn’t enjoy.
Ratings should not be taken to heart and are no means intended to upset the author. I acknowledge all of your hard work each and every time!
December 30, 2024
A great insight into forensic policing and how it changed over the decades, not just the investigative processes but rise in drug and knife crime as an economic recession hit. Jo Ward not only talks about her drive, the crimes but also the impact her job had not only on her, with Jo being diagnosed with PTSD but the impact on her family.
She is open about behavioral issues with her Step-son then later her own son. The anguish as her daughter was sick and she had to respond to another scene. Jo talks about Lou, her husband who gave up hos business to be a stay at home Dad.
She is open about behavioral issues with her Step-son then later her own son. The anguish as her daughter was sick and she had to respond to another scene. Jo talks about Lou, her husband who gave up hos business to be a stay at home Dad.
April 2, 2025
I'm quite interested in forensics and how crimes are solved so this book was right up my street. I've also watched the 'Real CSI' programme that Jo is in and I've always been fascinated in what she has to say. It was an easy read and I also like the way she brought her personal life into the narrative. Her summing up of policing today was spot on too. Having thought I'd like to have had a career as a Crime scene officer (in another life) I hadn't anticipated just how hard the job could be, so maybe I'll stick to what I do currently and view from the outside looking in.
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