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DI Ruth Hunter #18
The Chester Killings
When a body is found on the Wales / England border, DI Ruth Hunter goes to investigate.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2024
910 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 30, 2024
screwdrivers and hammers
I tend to read mysteries written by women about female detectives but Simon McCleave has written a series that is addictive. This one is more violent than I prefer. The scenes are graphic and the descriptions become more so as the incidents increase. McCleve does not use violence gratuitously. He is respectful towards women and has numerous strong , kind , brilliant sometimes flawed female characters as well as kind , brilliant, and flawed male characters. I love the description the communities and environment of Wales. This series is imperfect and recommend.
I tend to read mysteries written by women about female detectives but Simon McCleave has written a series that is addictive. This one is more violent than I prefer. The scenes are graphic and the descriptions become more so as the incidents increase. McCleve does not use violence gratuitously. He is respectful towards women and has numerous strong , kind , brilliant sometimes flawed female characters as well as kind , brilliant, and flawed male characters. I love the description the communities and environment of Wales. This series is imperfect and recommend.
March 31, 2024
Yet another brilliant read
I am always (pleasantly?) surprised at Simon' McCleave's inventive reasons for murder and the mechanics of discovering who actually committed them. Each book is a compelling read and this one is no exception. With a common thread of misogyny running through it, and the detectives of North Wales and Cheshire joining forces, this is probably my favourite so far. My only complaint is that I finished it far too quickly and now have a short wait for the next one.
I am always (pleasantly?) surprised at Simon' McCleave's inventive reasons for murder and the mechanics of discovering who actually committed them. Each book is a compelling read and this one is no exception. With a common thread of misogyny running through it, and the detectives of North Wales and Cheshire joining forces, this is probably my favourite so far. My only complaint is that I finished it far too quickly and now have a short wait for the next one.
March 30, 2024
I would thoroughly recommend this series by Simon McCleave, I've read them all and knowing there's another on the way is exciting. The relationship between the detectives is strong and sincere, they have a good understanding of how the police work to solve serious crime. The plot in this book was well thought out and holds the readers interest from start to the finish. I did guess who the perpetrator was but that made the story all the more interesting trying to work out the next move. A 5* rating for this psychological thriller is well deserved.
April 13, 2024
A fresh Ruth Hunter tale.
Despite the longevity of this series Simon McCleave continues to come up with interesting cases for DI Ruth Hunter and her team. This time she has to deal with a jurisdictional issue with another Police Force while dealing with serial killings.
As with the other books there is more revealed of the back stories of Ruth and some of the team.
It's well worth a read.
Despite the longevity of this series Simon McCleave continues to come up with interesting cases for DI Ruth Hunter and her team. This time she has to deal with a jurisdictional issue with another Police Force while dealing with serial killings.
As with the other books there is more revealed of the back stories of Ruth and some of the team.
It's well worth a read.
June 18, 2024
Book 18 in the DI Hunter series follows the same formula as the previous books.
This time we see Ruth and the team investigate a series of what appear to be vigilante style murders across north wales and Chester, meaning they have to join forces with the Chester police for a joint investigation so we are introduced to a number of new characters. As always with these type of police procedure series, you have to suspend belief a little bit as they can be rather far fetched, and the main characters are always portrayed as the heroes and better than anyone else at the job even though evidence may prove otherwise! This series is a pretty easy read, they’re never going to be the best books out there but certainly not the worst either. A quick easy read with familiar characters and narratives.
This time we see Ruth and the team investigate a series of what appear to be vigilante style murders across north wales and Chester, meaning they have to join forces with the Chester police for a joint investigation so we are introduced to a number of new characters. As always with these type of police procedure series, you have to suspend belief a little bit as they can be rather far fetched, and the main characters are always portrayed as the heroes and better than anyone else at the job even though evidence may prove otherwise! This series is a pretty easy read, they’re never going to be the best books out there but certainly not the worst either. A quick easy read with familiar characters and narratives.
July 11, 2025
Another quick read from this author and another disappointment. I don't think I'll be reading any more of this series. 18 has been more than enough. The story started in a far more promising way than the last book at least, mainly because the secondary plotline was more interesting than the filler chapters of the last book, up until the disappointing, utterly banal ending. The escape of the suspect was absurd and embarrassing and the book really lost my interest at that point. The 'cliffhanger' at the end definitely isn't one that will encourage me to read the next in the series. I really loved the first few books of this series, but Simon appears to just be churning out stories just for the sake of it (or the money) now. The end of this series is very overdue. I will try his other series and stand alones though
May 21, 2024
I have read all of the DI Hunter books and, initially, found them exciting. However, after 18 novels, I think Simon McLeave has run out of ideas. There's always a suspect who escapes from the back door and is chased, someone breaks free from custody and a member of Ruth's' family or colleague is taken hostage. It's all getting very samey and I'm surprised that she's not been fired and everyone is suffering from severe PTSD.
The narrative lacks depth - it's as if the author is trying to get to the end of the novel as quickly as possible and most of the characters lack depth and description. Shame.
The narrative lacks depth - it's as if the author is trying to get to the end of the novel as quickly as possible and most of the characters lack depth and description. Shame.
June 16, 2024
Like all Simon McCleave's, I thoroughly enjoy this book. It shows are police officers from two different districts as well as from two different countries can work together to solve of crimes and bring criminals to justice.
Also, like stories about police officers, there are jealous characters who let their personal feelings get in the way than work together to solve the crime.
This story continues to prove how D.I. Ruth Hunter proves that she is a strong woman in men dominant area. She is able to control her professional attitude. She can separate her professional life from her personal life.
I always look forward to reading other stories about D.I. Ruth Hunter and her team.
Also, like stories about police officers, there are jealous characters who let their personal feelings get in the way than work together to solve the crime.
This story continues to prove how D.I. Ruth Hunter proves that she is a strong woman in men dominant area. She is able to control her professional attitude. She can separate her professional life from her personal life.
I always look forward to reading other stories about D.I. Ruth Hunter and her team.
June 15, 2024
Fantastic Plot
Another fascinating murder mystery in this series. Ruth is back in full form with additional responsibilities and challenges. Patronizing patriarchy is on the rack. Great banter amongst the team. Some sloppy editing again: sewing wild oats and steam scolding her arm. ??? A bit of confusion of identities with one of the canal killings...I went back and forth rereading the passages, trying to work out if it was an editing mistake. It eventually was explained but I sure wasted some time with that.
Another fascinating murder mystery in this series. Ruth is back in full form with additional responsibilities and challenges. Patronizing patriarchy is on the rack. Great banter amongst the team. Some sloppy editing again: sewing wild oats and steam scolding her arm. ??? A bit of confusion of identities with one of the canal killings...I went back and forth rereading the passages, trying to work out if it was an editing mistake. It eventually was explained but I sure wasted some time with that.
July 6, 2025
In a unique case, Ruth’s CID team are called into investigate a murder, in which the body of a man is found laid across the border, half in Wales and half in England. A joint investigation is launched with the Chester police force.
When more man is attacked, it seems the team have a serial killer on their hands and as attacks become more frequent, they need to act fast.
There’s a couple of sub-plots involving Georgie and also around the adoption of Daniel, adding to the book.
A good read. 4 stars.
When more man is attacked, it seems the team have a serial killer on their hands and as attacks become more frequent, they need to act fast.
There’s a couple of sub-plots involving Georgie and also around the adoption of Daniel, adding to the book.
A good read. 4 stars.
April 13, 2024
Another outing, another murder.
Somewhat unbelievable, but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
On the hunt for a killer which has somehow ended up committing a crime, half in England and half in Wales, we see a dramatic character change which is basically something straight out of TV.
Ruth is still a strong character, with good history that clearly demonstrates the depth of her series.
Four out of five.
Somewhat unbelievable, but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
On the hunt for a killer which has somehow ended up committing a crime, half in England and half in Wales, we see a dramatic character change which is basically something straight out of TV.
Ruth is still a strong character, with good history that clearly demonstrates the depth of her series.
Four out of five.
March 29, 2024
Wonderful
The whole series of books right from the start have kept me enthralled and on edge until.the next book. The last book Hansen a real wonder if imagination and very careful planning by Simon McCleveh please keep on writing because you are a wonderful.author LIu am 97 and still read SouThbank You once again. Tony Miles
The whole series of books right from the start have kept me enthralled and on edge until.the next book. The last book Hansen a real wonder if imagination and very careful planning by Simon McCleveh please keep on writing because you are a wonderful.author LIu am 97 and still read SouThbank You once again. Tony Miles
April 4, 2024
Excellent Read
Being very familiar with Chester and North Wales, this brought back many memories. The canal and towpath, decent beer and excellent fish and chips in The Old Harkers Arms, lovely Chester itself. Thank you for reviving such fondness for the city. As for the story, very well constructed leaving the reader anxious to reach the next chapter.
Being very familiar with Chester and North Wales, this brought back many memories. The canal and towpath, decent beer and excellent fish and chips in The Old Harkers Arms, lovely Chester itself. Thank you for reviving such fondness for the city. As for the story, very well constructed leaving the reader anxious to reach the next chapter.
April 6, 2024
The Chester Killings: A Snowdonia Murder Mystery ( A DI Ruth Hunter Crime Thriller Book 18)
Simon Mcleave you have written another outstanding book again. I very nearly read it all on the first day!! Just couldn’t put it down. I can thoroughly recommend any of the 18 books in the series. Hope it’s not long until the next book x
Simon Mcleave you have written another outstanding book again. I very nearly read it all on the first day!! Just couldn’t put it down. I can thoroughly recommend any of the 18 books in the series. Hope it’s not long until the next book x
April 10, 2024
McCleave does it again!
Suspense, terror running across North Wales. Inspector Ruth Hunter must use assets from across the border, as well as her own team, tension is high.
You’re going to learn about so much about humane nature and the Welch people’s way, it’s like learning about those in your own neighborhoods.
You will want this story to never end, even when you’re finished.
Suspense, terror running across North Wales. Inspector Ruth Hunter must use assets from across the border, as well as her own team, tension is high.
You’re going to learn about so much about humane nature and the Welch people’s way, it’s like learning about those in your own neighborhoods.
You will want this story to never end, even when you’re finished.
April 12, 2024
Another brilliant read
Loving this series so much so that I have read them all one after the other! Now I’ve got to wait for the next one. The characters are great & the storylines compelling making you want to keep reading. One thing though they always finish on a bit of a cliffhanger!! Would highly recommend.
Loving this series so much so that I have read them all one after the other! Now I’ve got to wait for the next one. The characters are great & the storylines compelling making you want to keep reading. One thing though they always finish on a bit of a cliffhanger!! Would highly recommend.
April 24, 2024
Another Excellent Story
Another excellent story by Simon featuring Ruth Hunter and get team. Having to work with another team in Chester led to problems but her skill and ability prevailed. Great storyline with numerous twists and turns that kept me gripped from start to finish.Looking forward to reading more in the series.
Another excellent story by Simon featuring Ruth Hunter and get team. Having to work with another team in Chester led to problems but her skill and ability prevailed. Great storyline with numerous twists and turns that kept me gripped from start to finish.Looking forward to reading more in the series.
April 29, 2024
Look
Who is Luke? Did I miss something or has he just appeared. Do I have to go back over the whole thing again? I love the drama and the police procedures but feel the berating of men a bit over the top. As far as my first question goes I'm sorry if it was out with website rules.
Who is Luke? Did I miss something or has he just appeared. Do I have to go back over the whole thing again? I love the drama and the police procedures but feel the berating of men a bit over the top. As far as my first question goes I'm sorry if it was out with website rules.
January 18, 2025
This was better than the last few I've read in this series. Previously, I thought they were getting quite formulaic (but still good books) but this had a complete twist in the tail. And, of course, the usual home life dilemmas that follow DI Ruth 🙄. I'm completely addicted to this series, and will probably buy any in the series that the author chooses to put out 🙌.
May 26, 2025
Absolutely fantastic read gripping and with great character depth.
Some seem to find the artistic licence of the books to be a problem, but for me they make the books fun, not always waiting three weeks for DNA etc.
these are brilliant short reads and I would thoroughly recommend them to any crime and thriller novel enthusiast
Some seem to find the artistic licence of the books to be a problem, but for me they make the books fun, not always waiting three weeks for DNA etc.
these are brilliant short reads and I would thoroughly recommend them to any crime and thriller novel enthusiast
March 29, 2024
A great read as always,suspense right up to the day. Left with another cliff hanger.
Great descriptions of characters, and places. Lots of them reminding me off the happy years I spent in North Wales. I thought I’d guessed the murderer but I was wrong.
Great descriptions of characters, and places. Lots of them reminding me off the happy years I spent in North Wales. I thought I’d guessed the murderer but I was wrong.
March 30, 2024
Fast moving!
This has to be one of the best Ruth Hunter stories. The only trouble is that it moves so fast that you will read it,as I did, in double quick time. The storyline was excellent and the characters believable. I can't wait for the next installment!!
This has to be one of the best Ruth Hunter stories. The only trouble is that it moves so fast that you will read it,as I did, in double quick time. The storyline was excellent and the characters believable. I can't wait for the next installment!!
March 30, 2024
Good story
Lots of action and plenty of twists make this a fast paced read. Ruth and the team are back in action but an unusual case takes them over the border into England. Meanwhile, Ruth and Sarah proceed with their attempt to adopt Daniel.
Lots of action and plenty of twists make this a fast paced read. Ruth and the team are back in action but an unusual case takes them over the border into England. Meanwhile, Ruth and Sarah proceed with their attempt to adopt Daniel.
April 2, 2024
Reliably engaging.
The Ruth Hunter series can be counted on for a mix of interesting police work, Welsh information, and personal exploration. The stories are always page turners and leave readers ready for more action.
The Ruth Hunter series can be counted on for a mix of interesting police work, Welsh information, and personal exploration. The stories are always page turners and leave readers ready for more action.
April 2, 2024
Breath taking
Another investigation for Ruth ,Nick and the team. Totally gripping, fast paced and eventful. I could not put it down and am already looking forward to the next book in this brilliant series.
Another investigation for Ruth ,Nick and the team. Totally gripping, fast paced and eventful. I could not put it down and am already looking forward to the next book in this brilliant series.
April 2, 2024
Once again a great book in this series. Intriguing story that had twists that I at least didn't see coming until well into the book. Realistic ways that some people handle trauma, but not always in a good way.
April 3, 2024
Fantastic read
Another good book from Simon. The only critisism is that once you start you cannot put it down. Originally coming from the area he writes about is a bonus. Keep them coming.
Another good book from Simon. The only critisism is that once you start you cannot put it down. Originally coming from the area he writes about is a bonus. Keep them coming.
April 4, 2024
I enjoy McCleave’s books but it’s getting a bit formulaic. It was clear early on who the murderer was and the twist at the end was a bit obvious. The subplot with Georgie seemed unnecessary.
The characterisations, however, are very good.
The characterisations, however, are very good.
April 4, 2024
Gripping
Ruth joins forces with another team and ends up taking over. A deranged serial killer is identified and eventually tracked to the Welsh coast only for the perpetrator to commit suicide.
Ruth joins forces with another team and ends up taking over. A deranged serial killer is identified and eventually tracked to the Welsh coast only for the perpetrator to commit suicide.
April 6, 2024
Simon at his best
What a story, full of twists to keep the reader guessing. An unputdownable book which unfortunately I had to put down and so it has taken me three days to read. Next book in the series on order.
What a story, full of twists to keep the reader guessing. An unputdownable book which unfortunately I had to put down and so it has taken me three days to read. Next book in the series on order.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews