Fatal Endings

Forrester Detective Agency Mystery #3

by Anita Waller

Nobody is safe…

When the murdered body of a woman is found in a Sheffield carpark, former cop turned private investigator Matt Forrester finds himself embroiled in the case, because the last call the victim made was to him…

But the case isn’t as simple as the drug theft it looks like, and – when a young boy becomes the next victim – Matt and his life partner, DI Karen Nelson, realise they’re investigating a terrifying series of revenge killings.

Arrests start to be made, but enemies are being made. And, as the killings continue, nobody is safe…

A totally unputdownable crime novel, from bestselling author Anita Waller, guaranteed to keep readers up all night.

Genres: Mystery

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2024

About the author

I live in Sheffield, UK. I am retired and have recently fulfilled my lifelong ambition of becoming a published author with Bloodhound Books.
I am married (almost 50 years to Dave) with three children and seven grandchildren.
I am a patchwork and quilting tutor as well as a writer.
My first book was Beautiful and my second, a sequel to Beautiful, is called Angel.

Reviews

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in this series,another brilliant read.Matt Forrester works in a Detective agency,a body of a woman found he knew the victim. Followed by another murder of a young boy he was a great lad who's brother wasnt so innocent...Karen Matt's partner is the Detective Inspector on the case is there a connection between the two cases? Another brilliant read enjoy reading her books and looking forward to reading the next instalment and her other books recommend this series.

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

I missed out on Anita Waller's earlier series - although I still hope to catch up - but this one is unmissable!

Matt Forrester is settled in behind the desk at The Forrester Detective Agency; when the last call made by a murdered woman turns out to be to him, he finds himself involved in the investigtion. The next body to turn up is that of a young boy and DI Karen Nelson - Matt's life partner - realises that they are both investigating a series of revenge killings. As the arrests begin, enemies are being made and no-one is safe ...

Much as I love this series, I'm not sure I was prepared for the shocks and surprises it contains. I found myself lying in bed in the early hours, unable to set it aside to get some sleep - just as well I'm retired! Once began, it's compulsive reading, with highs and lows and my emotions really got put through the wringer. A gripping read and a real credit to the author. Easily earning five glowing stars and my very highest recommendation.

[Julie Lacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great read.
You’re best to read the previous two books before this one as it’s a trilogy.
Matt is enjoying his work in the investigation agency but isn’t prepared to come across the dead body of a teenage boy when visiting a client.
Karen is involved in another murder case when Matt calls her about the dead body, and she soon realises that both are linked.
I can’t say too much more as it will spoil it for you, but there’s definitely a few shocks in store in this book.
I really enjoyed this trilogy and look forward to Anita’s next book.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this book.

[Susan Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've lost count of the books I've read by this author but one thing is constant, I've enjoyed every one of them. Fatal Endings is the final book in the Forrester Detective Agency. Things are running smoothly in the personal and professional lives of Matt and Steve. There's murder mystery, humour, sadness, delight and tears all incorporated into this truly tough emotional and gripping read. Once I'd started this book it was extremely difficult to tear myself away from it as I was desperate to know the outcome.

[Karen Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book from Anita and I am completely broken. This book was both brilliant and heartbreaking and there were lots of moments where my breath was held.

I never expected these things in thos book to happen. I do hope that there will be more of the Forrester series, I've just loved them but this one will stick with me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Fatal Endings by Anita Waller is a gripping conclusion to the Forrester Detective Agency Mysteries series, delivering a potent mix of suspense, intrigue, and emotional depth. Waller, known for her ability to craft compelling narratives, brings her A-game in this final installment, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last.

The novel begins with the body of a murdered woman found in a Sheffield carpark. Former cop turned private investigator Matt Forrester is drawn into the case when it’s revealed that the victim’s last call was to him. This personal connection adds a layer of urgency and complexity to the investigation, as Matt must navigate a web of secrets and lies to uncover the truth.

Waller excels in character development, and Fatal Endings is no exception. Matt Forrester is a deeply relatable protagonist, grappling with his own demons while trying to solve the case. His interactions with Sgt. Dee Jackson, his steadfast partner, are particularly well-drawn, showcasing a partnership built on mutual respect and shared history. The supporting characters are equally compelling, each adding depth and nuance to the story.

The plot is meticulously crafted, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Waller’s pacing is impeccable, balancing moments of high tension with quieter, introspective scenes that explore the characters’ motivations and backstories. The narrative is tightly woven, with each clue and revelation building towards a nail-biting climax.

Waller brings Sheffield to life with vivid descriptions that capture the city’s gritty charm and atmospheric tension. The cold, wintry backdrop adds to the sense of foreboding, making the reader feel as though they are right there alongside Matt and Dee as they unravel the mystery.

Waller delves into themes of justice, redemption, and the impact of past traumas. These themes are explored with sensitivity and insight, adding emotional weight to the story. The novel is not just a thrilling mystery but also a poignant exploration of the human condition.

Fatal Endings is a fitting finale to the Forrester Detective Agency Mysteries series. Anita Waller has crafted a compelling, emotionally resonant story that will satisfy longtime fans and newcomers alike. With its well-drawn characters, intricate plot, and atmospheric setting, this novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.

Whether you’re a fan of the series or discovering it for the first time, Fatal Endings is sure to leave a lasting impression.

[Alyson Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything’s looking up for the Forrester Detective Agency who have also diversified into providing security systems for clients. Ex-DI Matt Forrester is blissfully happy with partner DI Karen Nelson and his son Harry has finally recovered from the pneumonia contracted during his adventures in the previous story, returning to school to a hero’s welcome. Matt’s best friend landscape gardener Steve Rowlands and now partner in the Agency is eagerly expecting a baby very soon with Matt’s sister Hermia and Carol the Scone Lady is doing a sterling job of organising their work for them. Nothing can go wrong – or can it? The body of Susan Hunter, the woman who caused them so much grief in book 2 is discovered at the steps joining the Crystal Peaks retail park and shopping mall, having bled out from a stab wound. Strangely, her last unanswered call was to Matt. Was she trying to tell him something as she lay dying? Karen and her team are on the murder case but have very little to go on except for the fact the strong drugs she had just collected from the night pharmacy are missing. Meanwhile Matt and Steve are quoting for new security at Birley Spa Bath House, a beautiful old building which has long been a target for vandals and drug dealers but on their return visit, sadly discover the bruised and battered dead body of a schoolboy. There’s a link to Susan Hunter and now Karen has two major crimes to investigate but at least has a viable suspect for one of them. This is just the start and nothing is as simple as it seems. One action sets off a devastating chain of events and danger lurks for everyone as some old faces return to wreak more trouble.
I would definitely suggest reading the books in order in this series to get to know the main characters and the various events mentioned will make more sense. The places featured are real and I always seem to learn about somewhere new and fascinating in Sheffield. This story was another pure joy to read, with the humour and witty caring dialogue balancing out the often grim and sad nature of the detectives’ work. The camaraderie in particular at the Agency and their family is lovely, and be warned, tissues will be required before this story is over! This is a beautifully written book, full of unforgettable characters who you can immediately love and care about, and brings to a close a wonderful trio of stories from one of my all-time favourite authors.

[Lori L (She Treads Softly) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fatal Endings by Anita Waller is a highly recommended investigative mystery and the third book in the Forrester Detective Agency series.

Matt Forrester is a former police detective who is now working as a private investigator. His life partner is Detective Inspector Karen Nelson. When Karen is called out to investigate a body found, the last call the woman made was to Matt, tying him into the case. It appears it was a drug related robbery. This is followed by another murder. This time Matt is on a job and finds a young teen dead. When Karen and the team arrive they discover evidence that ties his murder to the first one.

There are several different plot threads in the well-written novel, with the main one obviously involving the murder investigations. The investigations and the details involved are all interesting, logical, and easy to follow. The pacing is fast with developments quickly following one after another with some twists along the way. There is a jaw-dropping, shocking twist that is a game changer.

Even though Fatal Endings is the third book in the series starting with Fatal Secrets, followed by Fatal Lies, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. There is enough background information within the novel to easily follow the connections between people. Harry, Steve, and Hermia are back with new developments and Carol, the astute office manager, is also present. I hope the series will continue. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2024/1...

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A woman's body is found near a shopping precinct, one who tried to call Ex DI Matt Forrester the evening before. The victim was someone he had encountered in a case a while beforehand and would rather not encounter her again. Matt’s life partner Karen is a DI in major crimes and is soon called out to the case. Meanwhile Matt is dealing with the more mundane- a survey of an old building for a security system and a woman who suspects her husband of scamming her. Karen's case escalates when Matt finds a body during his survey and pharmacy boxes belonging to the shopping precinct murder are found nearby.

I love this series, it's a wonderful easy read and despite the subject matter, it's light-hearted and the characters bring a warm smile. Matt and Carol, his receptionist, have a great working relationship and Karen brings the police side of things to the table, where they invariably involve Matt either from an old case, his past experience or even a current situation. All are caring and compassionate and Anita’s skill of writing makes this bound from the pages, someone who loves and cares for her characters really shows through, the reader soon feeling that they are in the company of friends. I gasped out loud at one point- I won’t spoil anything by saying at what. A brilliant ending to a much adored series. Loved it really doesn’t do this justice. A huge 5*

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't aware that this was the final book in the series; I thought we would get many more adventures with the Forrester Detective Agency! Alas, all good things have to come to an end, and following the events of the book, I think it's right (but disheartening) for the series to end.

First we have the death of an old acquaintance of the Forrester family, then the tragic death of a young child, and it all comes together with an even more tragic and senseless murder that will leave you reeling! I will refrain from spoilers, but you really feel the emotions of the characters when this happens!

The author does a great job of capturing the darkness in the crime aspect and contrasts this nicely with the hearty warmness of the antics of the Forrester family. She keeps you captivated with each turn of the page, and even when you tell yourself, just one more chapter, you'll find yourself checking the time and it's 2am in the morning!

I will definitely miss returning to these characters, but I found the book to be a fitting end to the series, if not incredibly sad. It's a shame we won't find out what happens next, but I don't think I want to see Matt and Co move on from the tragedy that occurs.

With thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Tina J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Anita, what have you done to me, I am a blubbering mess after reading “Fatal Endings”.

This author puts so much love, thought and detail into her stories. She takes my breath away at how easily she can switch from a touching scene of family to one of a gruesome murder, but always keeping me, the reader enthralled and wanting more.

I knew when I picked this book up that it was going to be an emotional read. Saying goodbye to Matt, his sister Hermia and their friend Steve who run the Forrester Detective Agency, helped by Carol, their wonderful and unforgettable PA. Matt’s life partner, Karen, a detective in the police force, is a font of knowledge on the criminal underworld. My favourite person though is little Harry (Matt’s son) who through the author’s heartfelt words became a real living person to me and will be sorely missed.

Mrs Waller left no stone unturned in piecing everything together and bringing the culprits to justice. She does this quite craftily in some instances, which made me smile.

On the other hand, the shocking ending to this series left me reeling. It came out of nowhere, yet it was so in keeping with all that had gone before!

An outstanding read and worth far more than 5 stars!

[Esther Peacock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fatal Endings by

Anita Waller

Nobody is safe…

When the murdered body of a woman is found in a Sheffield carpark, former cop turned private investigator Matt Forrester finds himself embroiled in the case because the last call the victim made was to him…

But the case isn't as simple as the drug theft it looks like, and – when a young boy becomes the next victim – Matt and his life partner, DI Karen Nelson, realise they're investigating a terrifying series of revenge killings.

Arrests start to be made, but enemies are being made. And, as the killings continue, nobody is safe…

Anita Waller is a pretty new author to me. I am not usually a fan of crime and police procedure, but the first book I read was The Family at No12, and I enjoyed the plot and Anita's writing and storytelling style. I am so glad I got a place on this tour to read and review my second book by this talented author.

Fatal Endings is a compelling, gripping crime story packed with twists and turns that keep you guessing. The characters are well-drawn and believable.

It was a very addictive read, and the ending was brilliant.

I am happy to recommend it.

I am happy to recommend it.
I want to thank publishers Boldwood Books, author Anita Waller and Rachel's Random Resources for a copy to read and review.

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fatal Endings is the final book in The Forrester Detective Agency Mysteries series. I was looking forward to reading this one as I have read the previous books and was keen to find out what was next for Private Investigator Matt Forrester and his partner DI Karen Nelson.

Anita Waller is an author who can keep a reader on the edge of their seat so easily. She has the skill of creating characters that I get invested in. I felt like I was back with friends returning to Matt and Karen. It was a roller coaster ride of a story that had me turning the pages so fast.

Matt and Karen get involved in a murder investigation for a woman and boy. What they don't realise is that this isn't as straightforward as it could be. They aren't prepared for the turn this case is going to take.

I still don't know how Anita Waller manages to write such a shocking, dark story and also makes it have such heartwarming elements too. She never lets me down with the quality of her writing . Fatal Endings ticks every box for me to say this is a superb story. Highly recommended read. In fact, the full series is unmissable!
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook to write my honest review.

[Debbie Lacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Why? In the first 2 books of this trilogy, the author created a great world with wonderful characters and complex storylines, and that continued until perhaps 60% or 70% through this book. Then the author did something that I don't ever want to see, and because she did it brutally well, I cried through most of the remainder of the book. However, I don't read to have my heart broken, and I fail to understand why an author would choose to implode the world she created. As if that wasn't enough to disappoint fans of this series, the final plot line can best be described as a dark Lucy and Ethel scheme that is a particularly sloppy way to end a book, much less a series. I truly wish I had not read this final book in the trilogy.

Why then did I rate it with 3 stars? I did so because the majority of the book was well written, deserving of a 5 star rating, and I must give credit where it is due. Readers who develop no attachment to series characters, and can overlook an almost comedic murder plot, may enjoy it.

The narrator is deserving of a 5 star rating and did a wonderful job of bringing these characters to life.

#BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley

[Challis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

This book was such a surprise for me. I went in expecting your average whodunnit revolving around the murdered woman we find out about from the synopsis - but this was so much more. Like, I did not expect to get my heart broken, but here we are!

The writing really reminded me of the type of mystery story I loved growing up, like Nancy Drew and Agatha Christie, but in a bit of a more grown-up style without being overly gruesome.
You get the thrills and chills from a seemingly never-ending amount of twists and shocking moments, but you also get the heartfelt camaraderie from the cast of characters. There are quite a few different groups of characters in here, but the author gives us quite a bit of context to get to know each of them and how they fit into the story as it progresses.

I read this without having read the first two of the series, but there was no complications with understanding it. Like most mystery series, you get a full fledged story in these pages. I will be adding the other to my TBR however, because I enjoyed reading this a lot.

Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is a Forrester Detective Agency mystery set in South Yorkshire. It's apparently the third in the series, and I haven't read either of the previous two books, but after reading this, I think I would like to.

From the beginning, I found the characters very relatable and genuine, and there was something about their behaviour and conversations that really resonated with me. I think it was the characters and their relatability, coupled with the murder investigation, that I found both intriguing and unsettling. I felt as though the characters could easily have been friends or acquaintances of mine.

Once I became invested, it was hard to stop turning the pages, and I found I was turning them very quickly. As I began to feel more deeply connected to Matt, and some of the other characters, I found that the storyline played with my emotions a little bit. I think I would be interested in reading more by this author.

Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.

[Alyce Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Boldwood Books, the author, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. It's number 3 in the Matt Forrester series. Matt is a former police detective who took over running his father's detective agency and is in a relationship with DI Karen Nelson.

The book starts with Karen being called to the sudden death of a woman. Her body was found behind a shopping arcade. It appears she was the victim of a drug robbery as all that is missing is her purchases from the nearby pharmacy. Matt becomes involved because he was the last person who spoke to the victim. She was a previous client and he was not keen to help her again. Matt and his work partner then stumble across the body of a young boy. Beneath the boy are pharmacy papers that can be traced back to the woman victim. Matt is drawn in further into Karen's investigation.

An excellent book, very well written. I enjoy the characters and their relationship with each other. I highly recommend all the books in the series. 5 out of 5 stars.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in The Forrester Detective Agency Mysteries and following his father’s death former Sheffield Major Crimes Unit officer Matt Forrester is running the agency. Matt’s partner DI Karen Nelson is called to the scene of a murder and it soon materialised that the dead woman had called Matt shortly before her murder. Well written and well plotted this is a compelling read and whilst it could easily be read as a stand-alone I would definitely recommend reading the previous books in the series.

Briefly, it appeared that the murder was prescription drug related but before the murderer is located another body is found with links to the first body. Can Karen and her team find the murderer before they strike again?

It’s good to read a detective book full of nice people, people who care about each other and look out for each other - not the criminals obviously! There are some good twists and turns and a really shocking event that I would never have expected! Life is not always kind. A very enjoyable and entertaining read.

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Fatal Endings
Series: The Forrester Detective Agency Mysteries Book 3
Author: Anita Waller
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: November 13, 2024
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pages: 295

Matt Forrester is a former police officer and now runs a private detective agency; his partner is DI Karen Nelson.
When a woman is found dead in Sheffield carpark Matt finds he is in the middle of the case as the last call she made was to him! She is someone Matt knew from an earlier case and he really had no desire to talk to her again.
It appears to be drug related case but when a young boy is also a victim - it just might be a revenge killing.

I wasn’t too excited about this when I started and then ended up with
Yikes! I didn’t expect THAT!!!

Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this this great early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for November 13, 2024.

[Emma Minazza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a brilliantly written book, it's full of suspense and a linked crime or two. I loved Matt and Karen's characters, I like how they are with each other, you can tell they are in a loving relationship and care for each other.

The team Matt has is also a strong one and they can solve the crime with the clues they find. I like Jamie and Rachael also, think they will make a good friendship over time. Rachael joins the team and she's thrown in the deep end but just gets on with it.

The crimes are emotional at times, the stories of Josh, Diana and Susan are sad ones, innocent people, caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Freddie and Liam think they can get away with murder, literally but time will tell if they truly can or not.

Hope there is more in the series as I have really enjoyed reading this book! I've read this out of order but didn't feel like I was confused as the writing explains who each person is. I will go back and read the others though at some point.

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forrester Detective Agency #3

When the body of a murdered woman is discovered in a Sheffield car park, former police officer, Matt Forrester, was the last person the woman had called. Now, he is fully invested in helping to solve the case. Matt's life partner is DI Karen Nelson, and she's investigating the case. But then Matt discovers the body of a teenager. Are the two murders connected?

With several plot threads running throughout this well-written and twisted novel, I was hooked. The characters are well-developed. The last 30% of this book is heartbreaking, but there are some funny moments too. I love the author's writing style. All the loose ends were tied up in this action-packed murder mystery. I like how the story ended.

Published 13th November 2024

I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #AnitaWaller for my ARC of #FatalEndings in exchange for an honest review.

[Pauline Render · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third instalment in the Forrester Detective Agency Mystery series by Anita Waller and oh boy, what a book it is!
This book felt like I was back with the most wonderful family as I rekindled my love of former cop and now Private Investigator Matt Forrester, his son Harry and his partner DI Karen Nelson. But when Karen is called to a murder scene, it’s soon clear that Matt is in a way involved in the case. There are plenty of twists and turns, along with plenty of suspects, all of which kept me guessing throughout. There’s also the fabulous interaction between the characters I’ve come to love with this author’s writing, which makes them very real. Of course there are moments when I smiled a lot, but also a couple of times when I could definitely feel a lump in my throat.
As ever, Anita Waller has created a fantastic story which I could not put down until I’d finished the last page.

[Mark Van · Rating 1 out of 5]

Heart less death

Spoiler Alert. I thought this would be an interesting approach, a detective who was not a recovering alcoholic, divorced and miserable or at odds with his boss. Instead he was living with a bright, attractive woman he was about to marry and had a fine boy. Then, after building up this profile of an exceptional woman, the author, with no preparation or build up, kills her off 3/4 of the way through the story. And a woman who had suspected her husband of scamming her, finds out, and drops him with less emotion than she would have had swatting a fly. I quit reading at that point, why go on when a main, interesting and valuable character is gone, leaving behind a bereft husband and child ? It turned an interesting mystery into a sad something else. This leads me to believe the author has a big blind spot regarding emotions and the impact a story can have on its readers.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember reading the first book in this series and finding it a bit too cosy and soft centred. That’s certainly not the case here as there are five fatalities and a palpable sense of threat. It certainly lives up to its title! The central character Matt runs a private detective agency. He is ex police and his wife Karen is a senior detective. Anita Waller does a good job on characterisation and even relatively minor characters are brought to life and given a distinctive identity. There isn’t a lot of mystery associated with the murder investigation, but the procedural elements have a ring of authenticity about them and focus on the teamwork required to secure a successful outcome. I always find it a bit hard to swallow when ordinary citizens and private detectives solve crimes so I was pleased that the focus was very much on the police at the novel’s resolution.

[Danny Matheson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book and enjoyed it before realising that it was the third in a series. It did not detract from my enjoyment of the book so it does read well as a stand alone. It is a well written book with believable characters. Whilst the perpetrators of the murders is known quite early into the storyline you still want to read the rest of the book to see how things work out. Needless to say there are twists and some surprising outcomes!
Matt Forrester, a former high ranking cop, runs a private investigation firm with his friend Steve and his life partner Karen is the Detective Inspector in charge of the police investigations. Business and personal lives cross when Forrester comes across one body and is the last person another victim called before her demise. There are thrills and emotions aplenty in this thriller.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matt Forrester missed a call from an unknown number. The person is later found murdered, and his life partner, DI Karen Nelson is the lead in the case.
A young teen is killed next, and it seems that the cases are linked.

I am crying. This is such a sad book. I can't say much, I don't want to give the whole plot away.
I read the first in this series, and enjoyed it thoroughly, but haven't read the second book, unfortunately.
I love the way Karen's team are so close knit, and she is the 'mother' of the team so to speak.
I couldn't put this book down, it was gripping and kept me awake long after I finished it.

Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for the opportunity to read this book.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fatal Endings by Anita Waller kept a fast pace and had good police procedural elements that held my interest.

When the murdered body of a woman is found in a Sheffield parking lot, former cop turned private investigator Matt Forrester finds himself embroiled in the case because the last call the victim made was to him.

But the case isn’t as simple as the drug theft it looks like, and when a young boy becomes the next victim, Matt and his life partner, DI Karen Nelson, realize they’re investigating a terrifying series of revenge killings.

I liked this book and liked the characters and how the author unraveled the mystery.

#FatalEndings #NetGalley @BoldwoodBooks

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Forrester Detective Agency series but can be read on its own. It was my first introduction to Matt, a former detective inspector who now runs an agency, and his partner Karen, a detective inspector.

Waller creates a very compelling narrative. The body of a woman is found near a shopping precinct and it's assumed to be linked to drugs. The woman was known to Matt's agency. Another killing makes it clear police are searching for a revenge killer.

The compassion and emotional intelligence of the police, and the team at Matt's agency, makes it a joy to read.

There's a shock as police hunt down the killer, with a gripping finale.

[Patricia Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anita Waller is one of my all time favourite authors. She rarely disappoints whoever she is writing about, and she's excelled herself with Fatal Endings the third book in the Forrester Agency trilogy. The main storyline is exciting on its own but wow! does it have some unexpected surprises! The usual characters are all there and to the regular reader it is like meeting up with family they are so well written. I hope Anita continues to write for many years to come as I'll be here ready to read them all.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is another enjoyable read in the authors Forrester Detective Agency Mysteries series. For me though, it lacked the edginess, thrills and suspense that the previous books had. The story has very likeable characters, and I really enjoyed following the private investigation and police investigations which cross over easily here. The plot is good, believeable and all to realistic and the author portrays her characters thoughts, emotions and feelings very eloquently. I had empathy for some of them. I did think the ending felt rushed which left me disappointed. On the whole though, this is a good series to read even though this isn't my favourite book in it.

3 stars