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The Dissection Murders
THE DISSECTION MURDERS
Naked, paralysed and fully conscious.
The Dissection Begins.
Middle-aged women are being dissected whilst alive and conscious, their bodies subjected to humiliating abuse.
Detective Sergeant Grant Maddox sets out to find who and why anyone would commit so vicious a crime upon such seemingly harmless and inoffensive victims.
His investigation, helped by a young colleague, DC Amber Bennett, new to the CID, takes the officers to the dark recesses of the human mind and imagination.
The ghosts from Maddox’s past come back to haunt him as the full horror of a distant crime stretches across the years to burst violently into the present.
How can a plummeting jet crashing into a French field, an exclusive school for the sons of the rich and famous, and the hollowed-out cavities of dissected victims all be linked?
The journey to find the answers is fast-paced, littered with twists and turns, horror and humour, and a shocking, unpredictable climax.
The Dissection Murders…you thought you were beyond being shocked…you thought wrong.
Naked, paralysed and fully conscious.
The Dissection Begins.
Middle-aged women are being dissected whilst alive and conscious, their bodies subjected to humiliating abuse.
Detective Sergeant Grant Maddox sets out to find who and why anyone would commit so vicious a crime upon such seemingly harmless and inoffensive victims.
His investigation, helped by a young colleague, DC Amber Bennett, new to the CID, takes the officers to the dark recesses of the human mind and imagination.
The ghosts from Maddox’s past come back to haunt him as the full horror of a distant crime stretches across the years to burst violently into the present.
How can a plummeting jet crashing into a French field, an exclusive school for the sons of the rich and famous, and the hollowed-out cavities of dissected victims all be linked?
The journey to find the answers is fast-paced, littered with twists and turns, horror and humour, and a shocking, unpredictable climax.
The Dissection Murders…you thought you were beyond being shocked…you thought wrong.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2024
8 people are currently reading
2122 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 1, 2025
A brilliant book that kept me engaged
DS Maddox and Amber have a great working relationship, along with the rest of the team. The sense of humour and respect they have for one another shows throughout the story.
The premise of the story is very upsetting, but it is told with great empathy. The characters are so realistic that I could see them playing out their roles. A whodunnit narrative, but with amazing realism. Brilliant book Steve. Well done.
DS Maddox and Amber have a great working relationship, along with the rest of the team. The sense of humour and respect they have for one another shows throughout the story.
The premise of the story is very upsetting, but it is told with great empathy. The characters are so realistic that I could see them playing out their roles. A whodunnit narrative, but with amazing realism. Brilliant book Steve. Well done.
January 1, 2025
Buckle up!
What a wild ride! Dark, delicious and deliriously clever.
A writing style that flows beautifully and a gritty, haunting subject matter combined to create a masterpiece. Depth and detail, sprinkled with brilliant humor throughout!
I love watching British crime shows and this needs to be brought to the screen.
Bravo, Steve!
What a wild ride! Dark, delicious and deliriously clever.
A writing style that flows beautifully and a gritty, haunting subject matter combined to create a masterpiece. Depth and detail, sprinkled with brilliant humor throughout!
I love watching British crime shows and this needs to be brought to the screen.
Bravo, Steve!
May 28, 2025
I’m bumping up my rating to a well earned 4.5⭐️
I loved this book as it’s a real, honest-to-goodness police procedural. No wonder as the author is a retired detective who has seen more & done more than the average cop. Make sure to read the author’s biography at the end. What an amazing life!
What I liked:
- at the onset the author has kindly compiled a list of the British detective ranks in ascending order. Also he’s included a glossary of local expressions & oddball terms which really helps outsiders like me
- the story moves along at a fast pace which kept me engaged & wanting to know what happens next
- I enjoyed the charisma created between Grant & Amber, the rookie cop. I can see this developing in future novels
- good plot, well thought through, excellent writing skills
- I liked that the murders were grim & that it played out darker than most other novels. Yup, there’s gotta be lots of blood in a good serial killer drama
What I didn’t like:
- I felt some office scenes were coarse & off-color. The prank played on a colleague was hilarious to all those present but I found it indecent of such high caliber police
- there seemed liberal use of coarse swearing, cussing & men’s obsessions with their dicks. Is all this used for realism? Perhaps.
I highly recommend this book to all who love police procedurals. Very well done Mr. Packwood…give us more!
I loved this book as it’s a real, honest-to-goodness police procedural. No wonder as the author is a retired detective who has seen more & done more than the average cop. Make sure to read the author’s biography at the end. What an amazing life!
What I liked:
- at the onset the author has kindly compiled a list of the British detective ranks in ascending order. Also he’s included a glossary of local expressions & oddball terms which really helps outsiders like me
- the story moves along at a fast pace which kept me engaged & wanting to know what happens next
- I enjoyed the charisma created between Grant & Amber, the rookie cop. I can see this developing in future novels
- good plot, well thought through, excellent writing skills
- I liked that the murders were grim & that it played out darker than most other novels. Yup, there’s gotta be lots of blood in a good serial killer drama
What I didn’t like:
- I felt some office scenes were coarse & off-color. The prank played on a colleague was hilarious to all those present but I found it indecent of such high caliber police
- there seemed liberal use of coarse swearing, cussing & men’s obsessions with their dicks. Is all this used for realism? Perhaps.
I highly recommend this book to all who love police procedurals. Very well done Mr. Packwood…give us more!
July 10, 2024
What a twist! Women are being dissected while awake and conscience, gruesome murders!
The Dissection murders is such a great thriller that will keep you guessing till the very end!
The beginning was a little difficult to get into, however, it slowly picks up as women are going missing.
Thank you Netgallery and the author for letting me read this early release.
The Dissection murders is such a great thriller that will keep you guessing till the very end!
The beginning was a little difficult to get into, however, it slowly picks up as women are going missing.
Thank you Netgallery and the author for letting me read this early release.
July 17, 2024
First of all, thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for gifting me an ARC of this book and the opportunity of providing an independent review.
I'm sorry to say this was a DNF for me. Whilst the concept is original and I am always up for something macabre and gruesome, the writing just did not resonate with me. Each sentence was florid with unnecessary adjectives and adverbs, distracting from the content. I also found some of the dialogue to be clunky and that some of the conversations between police were unlikely.
Although the plot was promising, the quality of the writing is crucial for me and I unfortunately have put this one back on the shelf for now. I know the author is at the beginning of his career and don't want to be too critical, so have decided on two stars this time. There's always room in the market for another good psychological thriller so I would definitely have a look at the next book by SP.
I'm sorry to say this was a DNF for me. Whilst the concept is original and I am always up for something macabre and gruesome, the writing just did not resonate with me. Each sentence was florid with unnecessary adjectives and adverbs, distracting from the content. I also found some of the dialogue to be clunky and that some of the conversations between police were unlikely.
Although the plot was promising, the quality of the writing is crucial for me and I unfortunately have put this one back on the shelf for now. I know the author is at the beginning of his career and don't want to be too critical, so have decided on two stars this time. There's always room in the market for another good psychological thriller so I would definitely have a look at the next book by SP.
July 4, 2024
The Dissection Murders (A DS Maddox Novel) by Steve Packwood
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 13 August 2024
A series of gruesome murders shocks the community as middle-aged women are subjected to live dissection and humiliating abuse. Detective Sergeant Grant Maddox, haunted by ghosts from his past, teams up with rookie DC Amber Bennett to unravel this horrifying case.
Their investigation delves into the darkest corners of human depravity, uncovering unexpected connections between a plane crash in France, an elite school for the privileged, and the mutilated victims. As the case progresses, Maddox's own history threatens to collide violently with the present.
"The Dissection Murders" delivers a gripping, intense thriller that pushes the boundaries of the crime genre. The author crafts a complex narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end, with an unexpected twist that subverts initial assumptions.
The novel's strength lies in its unflinching approach to dark subject matter. The author doesn't shy away from graphic details, providing a visceral and sometimes uncomfortable reading experience that may not be for the faint of heart. This raw honesty, however, adds to the book's authenticity and impact.
Character development is another highlight. The evolving relationship between Maddox and Bennett adds depth to the story, while glimpses into their personal lives humanise these detectives facing unimaginable horrors. This balance between the professional and personal aspects of the investigators' lives enhances the overall narrative.
The pacing is well-managed, maintaining tension throughout while allowing for necessary exposition and character moments. The interweaving of seemingly disparate elements – the plane crash, the elite school, and the murders – creates an intriguing mystery that keeps readers engaged.
While the graphic nature of the crimes and their description may be too intense for some readers, those who appreciate darker, more challenging crime fiction will find much to admire here. The novel successfully blends procedural elements with psychological depth, creating a multi-layered reading experience.
In conclusion, "The Dissection Murders" is a well-crafted, dark thriller that delivers on its promise of shock and surprise. Its intricate plot, complex characters, and unflinching approach to its subject matter make it a standout in the genre. Recommended for readers who enjoy their mysteries with a hefty dose of psychological horror and aren't afraid to confront the darker aspects of human nature.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and the author, Steve Packwood, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 13 August 2024
A series of gruesome murders shocks the community as middle-aged women are subjected to live dissection and humiliating abuse. Detective Sergeant Grant Maddox, haunted by ghosts from his past, teams up with rookie DC Amber Bennett to unravel this horrifying case.
Their investigation delves into the darkest corners of human depravity, uncovering unexpected connections between a plane crash in France, an elite school for the privileged, and the mutilated victims. As the case progresses, Maddox's own history threatens to collide violently with the present.
"The Dissection Murders" delivers a gripping, intense thriller that pushes the boundaries of the crime genre. The author crafts a complex narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end, with an unexpected twist that subverts initial assumptions.
The novel's strength lies in its unflinching approach to dark subject matter. The author doesn't shy away from graphic details, providing a visceral and sometimes uncomfortable reading experience that may not be for the faint of heart. This raw honesty, however, adds to the book's authenticity and impact.
Character development is another highlight. The evolving relationship between Maddox and Bennett adds depth to the story, while glimpses into their personal lives humanise these detectives facing unimaginable horrors. This balance between the professional and personal aspects of the investigators' lives enhances the overall narrative.
The pacing is well-managed, maintaining tension throughout while allowing for necessary exposition and character moments. The interweaving of seemingly disparate elements – the plane crash, the elite school, and the murders – creates an intriguing mystery that keeps readers engaged.
While the graphic nature of the crimes and their description may be too intense for some readers, those who appreciate darker, more challenging crime fiction will find much to admire here. The novel successfully blends procedural elements with psychological depth, creating a multi-layered reading experience.
In conclusion, "The Dissection Murders" is a well-crafted, dark thriller that delivers on its promise of shock and surprise. Its intricate plot, complex characters, and unflinching approach to its subject matter make it a standout in the genre. Recommended for readers who enjoy their mysteries with a hefty dose of psychological horror and aren't afraid to confront the darker aspects of human nature.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and the author, Steve Packwood, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
August 10, 2024
4.5 Stars. Steve Packwood has written an intense, thrilling crime drama. It combines dark, horrifying crimes, in-depth character study, and a complex police procedural with stunning impact.
The plot was intense and multi-layered, with touches of humour amidst the investigations of the gruesome, perplexing crimes. The story was fast-paced and riveting. Middle-aged women have been found brutally murdered. They were dissected while still alive.
The police investigation is aimed at solving these unique and revolting crimes before another victim is killed. There will be plenty of shocks and twists along the way. DC Grant Maddox leads the police team with the positive support of young DC Amber Bennett. The personalities of the supporting team members are well-developed. They have various degrees of competence, self-assurance, and flaws but are anxious to solve these nauseating murders. They are not pleased to be forced to work alongside a famous TV personality noted for her popular crime documentaries and her cameraman.
The crimes seem to be connected with an elite school for young men, the sons of the super-rich and famous and also to a plane crash in France eighteen years earlier. How can the present grim murders be connected? This puzzle adds to the complexity of the story. A significant witness reveals only what is in his best interests and is out for revenge on the school. His story detracts from the police investigation.
Everything the reader thought they knew will be overturned. The motive behind these grisly killings is very hard to fathom. Once the reason is learned, it makes the crimes understandable but never acceptable. We learn of a cruel, savage incident years ago that ruined the future for two young women.
I have added the author to my 'must-read' list, and I hope he writes more thrillers in the future.
Recommended for readers who enjoy a dark, disturbing mystery. The Dissection Murders will be published on August 13th. I received an early copy of this exciting book from NetGalley and the publisher, and I greatly appreciated it.
The plot was intense and multi-layered, with touches of humour amidst the investigations of the gruesome, perplexing crimes. The story was fast-paced and riveting. Middle-aged women have been found brutally murdered. They were dissected while still alive.
The police investigation is aimed at solving these unique and revolting crimes before another victim is killed. There will be plenty of shocks and twists along the way. DC Grant Maddox leads the police team with the positive support of young DC Amber Bennett. The personalities of the supporting team members are well-developed. They have various degrees of competence, self-assurance, and flaws but are anxious to solve these nauseating murders. They are not pleased to be forced to work alongside a famous TV personality noted for her popular crime documentaries and her cameraman.
The crimes seem to be connected with an elite school for young men, the sons of the super-rich and famous and also to a plane crash in France eighteen years earlier. How can the present grim murders be connected? This puzzle adds to the complexity of the story. A significant witness reveals only what is in his best interests and is out for revenge on the school. His story detracts from the police investigation.
Everything the reader thought they knew will be overturned. The motive behind these grisly killings is very hard to fathom. Once the reason is learned, it makes the crimes understandable but never acceptable. We learn of a cruel, savage incident years ago that ruined the future for two young women.
I have added the author to my 'must-read' list, and I hope he writes more thrillers in the future.
Recommended for readers who enjoy a dark, disturbing mystery. The Dissection Murders will be published on August 13th. I received an early copy of this exciting book from NetGalley and the publisher, and I greatly appreciated it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐, rolled into 5.
I love me a good police procedural murder mystery! And this book did not disappoint. It's hard to believe this is Mr. Packwood's debut novel. He knocked it out of the park on the first go-round and hopefully produces an equally wonderful follow up in the series.
The murder and murder scenes might be a bit much for more sensitive readers, but I felt he handled the descriptions very well, with respect for victims but still believable. Although somewhat slow at the beginning, the pacing throughout is pretty good, with steady building up, with moments of soaring pace to then be brought back down. It worked!
I loved the setting. As an American, I love English TV shows and books, and it's a joy to read books by an English author that introduces all the particular cultural nuances to the reader.
I loved the characters. Grant is an awesome MC. He's the type of guy you'd just want to get to know and have much respect for him. The relationships were believable and fantastic. No unnecessary sexual tension, where there didn't need to be any. Just coworkers getting along, getting to know each other better, but not crossing that line. Grant, Amber, and Heidi's working relationship and interactions were fun to read. I'm looking forward to getting to know them better and seeing them progress to more fully fleshed out characters.
As for the mystery part, the author keeps you guessing throughout. A couple times I thought I knew, but was wrong. At one point I had the thought pop in that it could be who did turn out to be the killer, but the storyline had me boot that right back out of my head!
I definitely recommend reading this book. I'm looking forward to the continued series. My only problem is getting in on this series so soon and now I've got to wait for the next installment! 😂
I love me a good police procedural murder mystery! And this book did not disappoint. It's hard to believe this is Mr. Packwood's debut novel. He knocked it out of the park on the first go-round and hopefully produces an equally wonderful follow up in the series.
The murder and murder scenes might be a bit much for more sensitive readers, but I felt he handled the descriptions very well, with respect for victims but still believable. Although somewhat slow at the beginning, the pacing throughout is pretty good, with steady building up, with moments of soaring pace to then be brought back down. It worked!
I loved the setting. As an American, I love English TV shows and books, and it's a joy to read books by an English author that introduces all the particular cultural nuances to the reader.
I loved the characters. Grant is an awesome MC. He's the type of guy you'd just want to get to know and have much respect for him. The relationships were believable and fantastic. No unnecessary sexual tension, where there didn't need to be any. Just coworkers getting along, getting to know each other better, but not crossing that line. Grant, Amber, and Heidi's working relationship and interactions were fun to read. I'm looking forward to getting to know them better and seeing them progress to more fully fleshed out characters.
As for the mystery part, the author keeps you guessing throughout. A couple times I thought I knew, but was wrong. At one point I had the thought pop in that it could be who did turn out to be the killer, but the storyline had me boot that right back out of my head!
I definitely recommend reading this book. I'm looking forward to the continued series. My only problem is getting in on this series so soon and now I've got to wait for the next installment! 😂
December 21, 2024
I just finished The Dissection Murders by Steve Packwood. I believe this is his debut novel and it was a heck of a start. Immediately the book sucks you into a dark and chilling world that follows a detective as he investigates a series of gruesome crimes of middle-aged women being dissected alive. 🫣 The author uses his personal and professional experience with the police force and it shines through with authenticity.
The writing was superb. It is dark, vivid, and very descriptive. I did have to take some breaks reading it, but the author added moments of humor and police banter that I welcomed as it gave me some relief from the graphic descriptions. The author weaves seemingly unrelated elements and packages them nicely.
And while I enjoyed the book, I wasn’t too fond of the artwork on the cover. I felt that the story was so rich and interesting that the cover art did not do the story justice. 😬
This book is a solid four stars. As the first book in what I hope will become a series, this is a strong introduction to Detective Maddox. I’m eagerly anticipating more novels featuring him and his team. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and aren’t too squeamish, this is the book for you.
The writing was superb. It is dark, vivid, and very descriptive. I did have to take some breaks reading it, but the author added moments of humor and police banter that I welcomed as it gave me some relief from the graphic descriptions. The author weaves seemingly unrelated elements and packages them nicely.
And while I enjoyed the book, I wasn’t too fond of the artwork on the cover. I felt that the story was so rich and interesting that the cover art did not do the story justice. 😬
This book is a solid four stars. As the first book in what I hope will become a series, this is a strong introduction to Detective Maddox. I’m eagerly anticipating more novels featuring him and his team. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and aren’t too squeamish, this is the book for you.
September 1, 2024
Middle aged women are being murdered in a brutal fashion - they're paralyzed and started while under the effects of a drug which keeps them conscious but unable to move. Detective Grant Maddox and the team are on the car, determined to find answers to why subjective would commit such a terrible crime. To make matters worse, the powers that be have invited an investigative journalist and her cameraman in to follow the team as they investigate.
The investigative journey takes them to an exclusive boys' school where a number of their rich, successful pupils died in a place crash 18 years earlier. The police are in a race to find the connection before more victims turn up.
A good, solid well-written thriller that keeps you guessing. The murders are described in graphic detail which might be a bit of putting for some readers. I found it a little slow to begin with which is why I gave it 3 stars rather than 4 however I enjoyed it overall and would happily read another book by this author.
The investigative journey takes them to an exclusive boys' school where a number of their rich, successful pupils died in a place crash 18 years earlier. The police are in a race to find the connection before more victims turn up.
A good, solid well-written thriller that keeps you guessing. The murders are described in graphic detail which might be a bit of putting for some readers. I found it a little slow to begin with which is why I gave it 3 stars rather than 4 however I enjoyed it overall and would happily read another book by this author.
September 25, 2024
Read this book if you like: True Crime, Serial Killers, Police Procedurals, Criminal Minds, Psychological Thrills
Synopsis: Even veteran cop DS Maddox is thrown off by the crime scene of a woman gutted while conscious, her womb splayed across her face. This specific MO links this crime to two other murders of women, who seem to have no connection. But this crime is almost two decades in the making, and the killer will not stop until they've completed their revenge.
My Thoughts: I'm usually not a thriller reader but I seriously enjoyed this book. Packwood is a retired cop himself and adds such a level of realism to the police work in the book, something that is sorely lacking in things like Criminal Minds. Besides being thrilling it's also heartbreaking. I spent the last 30 pages with my jaw on the floor. Would highly recommend.
Spooky Rating: 3/5 (the kills are disturbing but not overly gory)
Synopsis: Even veteran cop DS Maddox is thrown off by the crime scene of a woman gutted while conscious, her womb splayed across her face. This specific MO links this crime to two other murders of women, who seem to have no connection. But this crime is almost two decades in the making, and the killer will not stop until they've completed their revenge.
My Thoughts: I'm usually not a thriller reader but I seriously enjoyed this book. Packwood is a retired cop himself and adds such a level of realism to the police work in the book, something that is sorely lacking in things like Criminal Minds. Besides being thrilling it's also heartbreaking. I spent the last 30 pages with my jaw on the floor. Would highly recommend.
Spooky Rating: 3/5 (the kills are disturbing but not overly gory)
August 14, 2024
I loved the premise of this book - a murderer is dissecting women alive. However, it didn't *quite* live up to the expectations I had.
The writing was very descriptive, almost too descriptive. There was an overuse of adjectives and adverbs. I love the details, but I don't think every moment needed that. Speaking of descriptive - the murders were told in graphic detail. I tend to have a pretty solid stomach, but some moments were a little much for me.
Packwood's knowledge of police procedure was evident and really helped bring the story to life. I enjoyed reading about both DS Maddox and DC Bennett.
The book was good. I just had a bit higher of expectations.
Thank you to Level Best Books and Steve Packwood for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The writing was very descriptive, almost too descriptive. There was an overuse of adjectives and adverbs. I love the details, but I don't think every moment needed that. Speaking of descriptive - the murders were told in graphic detail. I tend to have a pretty solid stomach, but some moments were a little much for me.
Packwood's knowledge of police procedure was evident and really helped bring the story to life. I enjoyed reading about both DS Maddox and DC Bennett.
The book was good. I just had a bit higher of expectations.
Thank you to Level Best Books and Steve Packwood for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2024
There have been a spate of horrific murders. Middle aged women are found having been mutilated with parts of their insides thrown across their faces. What is even more horrific is that the post-mortem shows that they were alive whilst being dissected. DS Grant Maddox & DC Amber Bennett find themself mired in a puzzling & grisly case.
This was a book that just didn't let up! I was totally drawn in by the story & the characters & with this I didn't stand a ghost of a chance at working out the mystery! I absolutely loved it & hope to meet Grant & Amber again soon. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book. It's one of the best police procedurals I've read this year
This was a book that just didn't let up! I was totally drawn in by the story & the characters & with this I didn't stand a ghost of a chance at working out the mystery! I absolutely loved it & hope to meet Grant & Amber again soon. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book. It's one of the best police procedurals I've read this year
February 25, 2025
Summary:
Middle-aged women are being dissected whilst alive and conscious, their bodies subjected to humiliating abuse.
DS Grant Maddox with help of DC Amber Bennett goes out to find who and why anyone would commit awful crimes.
First of all I want to say I was drawn to read this book bcs the author is ex-police officer and wanted to see what kind of book would a police officer write. And in short, I was blown away. I can't believe that this is authors first book. Pacing is awesome, story is brutal, atmosphere is dark, humor is suptile and in right places. I loved the characters, especially Grant and Amber (and their relationship) (justice for Dirty Don 😅).
Middle-aged women are being dissected whilst alive and conscious, their bodies subjected to humiliating abuse.
DS Grant Maddox with help of DC Amber Bennett goes out to find who and why anyone would commit awful crimes.
First of all I want to say I was drawn to read this book bcs the author is ex-police officer and wanted to see what kind of book would a police officer write. And in short, I was blown away. I can't believe that this is authors first book. Pacing is awesome, story is brutal, atmosphere is dark, humor is suptile and in right places. I loved the characters, especially Grant and Amber (and their relationship) (justice for Dirty Don 😅).
March 5, 2025
In the first few chapters, Packwood sets the stage for all kinds of twists and turns. I found myself thinking about the first scenes and wondering how they connect to the rest of the story…. But look out, it’s coming! I found the police characters to be realistic and I found myself rooting for them at every turn. The narrative was complicated with some frightening psychological themes. The more I read, the more I couldn’t put the book down. I don’t want to give anything away. If you like crime, if you like psychological themes and plot twists, you will probably enjoy this book. I finished it in only two days, and it would have been just one if I didn’t have to go to work in between.
June 15, 2024
thank you to netgalley and level best books for providing me with this arc of steve packwood's the dissection murders!
there wasn't really much i did like tbh, i just couldn't get into it. the only thing i did like was the fact there were regular breaks (i think that's what they're called? i call them breaks) in the chapters which helped me regulate where i was.
on the other hand, i didn't like packwood's writing style. not saying it's bad, it's just not for me. because of that i really struggled to get into the book and had to stop myself at chapter 2.
there wasn't really much i did like tbh, i just couldn't get into it. the only thing i did like was the fact there were regular breaks (i think that's what they're called? i call them breaks) in the chapters which helped me regulate where i was.
on the other hand, i didn't like packwood's writing style. not saying it's bad, it's just not for me. because of that i really struggled to get into the book and had to stop myself at chapter 2.
July 12, 2024
This is the first book I have read by this author; so, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I got was a host of dark and gruesome murders, which are described in an unflinchingly graphic manner, a combination of police procedures and psychological depth, which forms a multi-layered tale, with a strong and likeable lead character. I did, however, find the pace was slow and some of the chapters a little dull with too much detail given – this allowed my mind to wander, and therefore left me unable to fully engage with the book.
August 30, 2024
A well-written dark thriller, murder mystery, police procedural! Middle aged women are being killed in a particularly horrific manner. A well-oiled British police force team works well together in their hunt for the killer. The character development is excellent, and the ending is a surprise. Even though this is a gruesome tale, the author manages to insert touches of humor. I particularly liked the lead Detective Sergeant Grant Maddox and his cohorts and look forward to future adventures of this crew.
January 8, 2025
“The Dissection Murders” by Steve Packwood is a gripping blend of suspense, humor, gore, and thrills that hooked me right from the start. The story masterfully balances dark, twisted elements with sharp wit, making it as engaging as it is disturbing. Packwood's fast-paced writing and vivid descriptions kept me on the edge of your seat, while moments of unexpected humor provide brief but welcome relief from the tension. It's a wild ride from start to finish that never lets up. If you're looking for a unique and exhilarating read, The Dissection Murders is definitely worth picking up.
August 9, 2024
What a truly dark and twisted story we have here. This book is not for everyone and does talk about SA multiple times. Though I get why it was written when someone has been pushed to their limits they change and they become someone else completely. I think that Steve did a great job writing this so that you want to keep going and find out who could do these murders and why. I am interested to see where he goes from here.
February 16, 2025
Such a good book. Admittedly it took me way longer to read than I would have liked. Being a British written novel the style and words are different, but it was so well written and with such great humor. Grant is a fantastic character along with his colleagues. You can relate to each character even the suspect. There is great detail but perfectly done. There is great sadness when it comes down to motive and such a horrific topic that is also deep into reality.
June 22, 2024
1⭐️
It sounded so good.
But it was so boring. Who would have thought that a book about a serial killer who dissects his victims alive would be so dull? The writing style is just so meh. I wasn’t glued to the pages, and I got distracted easily. It just felt like such a chore to read.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It sounded so good.
But it was so boring. Who would have thought that a book about a serial killer who dissects his victims alive would be so dull? The writing style is just so meh. I wasn’t glued to the pages, and I got distracted easily. It just felt like such a chore to read.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2024
This is a gripping, thrilling ride of a book. Dark themes interspersed with brilliant light hearted moments of British police banter. I was hooked from the first page until the unexpected reveal at the end. Fast, bloody in places, funny in others. Highly recommend this great debut novel. I impatiently await book 2.
June 29, 2024
I received the ARC for this book and was very excited as I love British crime fiction. I was not disappointed and found myself really caring about DS Grant Maddox and his colleagues. The pacey story carried me along. Brutal at times it is blended with insights into the squads lives. A rollicking good read.
August 5, 2024
A fast paced, great read but not for squeamish. It kept me guessing right to the last page and then there was another twist. Great character descriptions and interspersed with black humour. I wish the author every success with this debut novel and look forward to book 2.
January 5, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! The characters are well developed and the plot keeps you guessing until the end. I’m shocked that this is his first novel. I’m looking forward to reading what he writes in the future!
March 7, 2025
Action From the Start
This was such a great story. It was a well paced crime thriller. It did have me turning page after page to see what was gonna happen next. Who was it? The way it brought it all together in the end. Just like a CSI episode and very well written.
This was such a great story. It was a well paced crime thriller. It did have me turning page after page to see what was gonna happen next. Who was it? The way it brought it all together in the end. Just like a CSI episode and very well written.
August 4, 2024
Thank you for the ARC. Gripping police drama. Full of twists and humour. Really invested in all the characters and look forward to much more Grant Maddox and Amber Bennet.
August 4, 2024
Tight and fast moving insight into detective work in London policing. This author must have been in the police to create the realism. It was a can't put down read.
September 29, 2024
Well constructed story with just enough twists to keep you engaged. Really good characters and a satisfying ending.
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