What do you think?
Solanki & McQueen #2
The Revenge Pact
Don't miss the next instalment in the Solanki and McQueen Crime Series, perfect for fans of Stuart MacBride, Val McDermid and Marion Todd.
TWO DEATHS
Tommy and Markie Jones are discovered dead at the side of a road in Scotland.
TWO RIVAL GANGS
Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen are on the scene where the bodies are identified as the nephews of Loanie Gibbs, head of a notable Edinburgh gang.
The turf war between the gangs of Glasgow and Edinburgh has existed for years, but these murders signal an escalation in violence.
ONE UNFORGIVABLE BETRAYAL
As the investigation unfolds, there’s suspicion about a leak within the police force, and to her dismay Jazzy is asked to keep a watchful eye on someone close to her. With distrust on all sides, can the pair uncover the truth before the body count mounts even more?
TWO DEATHS
Tommy and Markie Jones are discovered dead at the side of a road in Scotland.
TWO RIVAL GANGS
Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen are on the scene where the bodies are identified as the nephews of Loanie Gibbs, head of a notable Edinburgh gang.
The turf war between the gangs of Glasgow and Edinburgh has existed for years, but these murders signal an escalation in violence.
ONE UNFORGIVABLE BETRAYAL
As the investigation unfolds, there’s suspicion about a leak within the police force, and to her dismay Jazzy is asked to keep a watchful eye on someone close to her. With distrust on all sides, can the pair uncover the truth before the body count mounts even more?
- GenresCrime
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2024
About the author
Liz Mistry
25 books196 followersLiz Mistry moved to West Yorkshire in the late 1980s. Her gritty crime fiction police procedural novels set in Bradford embrace the city she describes as ‘Warm, Rich and Fearless’ whilst exploring the darkness that lurks beneath. Yet, her heart remains in Scotland, where childhood tales of bogey men, Bible John and grey lady ghosts fed her imagination.
Her latest work, The Solanki and McQueen crime series is set around West Lothian, where she uses the distinctive landscape, historic heritage and Scottish culture as a backdrop to her gritty yet often humorous stories.
Struggling with clinical depression and anxiety for many years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. She credits her MA in Creative Writing from Leeds Trinity University with helping her find a way of using her writing to navigate her ongoing mental health struggles. The synergy been creative and academic writing led Liz to complete a doctorate in creative writing researching the importance of representation of marginalised groups within the genre she loves.
Her latest work, The Solanki and McQueen crime series is set around West Lothian, where she uses the distinctive landscape, historic heritage and Scottish culture as a backdrop to her gritty yet often humorous stories.
Struggling with clinical depression and anxiety for many years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. She credits her MA in Creative Writing from Leeds Trinity University with helping her find a way of using her writing to navigate her ongoing mental health struggles. The synergy been creative and academic writing led Liz to complete a doctorate in creative writing researching the importance of representation of marginalised groups within the genre she loves.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 19, 2024
The book opens with the discovery of Tommy and Markie Jones’s bodies, which were found by the side of a road in Scotland. But far from this being an accident, the deaths were deliberate, and could lead to all out warfare in the criminal world, because the deceased happen to be members of Edinburgh’s most notorious gang.
There had been a turf war between the Edinburgh and Glasgow gangs for years, but these two deaths signal an escalation in violence and it will be up to Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen to discover who’s responsible, and attempt to bring them under some sort of control. No easy task. As the investigation gathers pace, it becomes clear that there is a leak within the police - but who to trust and who not?
No question that book # 2 in the Solanki and McQueen series is a raw and gritty storyline, delving deep into the criminal underworld, however, because it’s peppered with some great banter between Jazzy and Queenie, it does help lighten the mood. The characters come fully fleshed, but they’re not ones you’d necessarily like, indeed they’re everything you hope you aren’t, but it’s a gripping police procedural, and a great follow up to ‘The Blood Promise’.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ digital for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
There had been a turf war between the Edinburgh and Glasgow gangs for years, but these two deaths signal an escalation in violence and it will be up to Detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen to discover who’s responsible, and attempt to bring them under some sort of control. No easy task. As the investigation gathers pace, it becomes clear that there is a leak within the police - but who to trust and who not?
No question that book # 2 in the Solanki and McQueen series is a raw and gritty storyline, delving deep into the criminal underworld, however, because it’s peppered with some great banter between Jazzy and Queenie, it does help lighten the mood. The characters come fully fleshed, but they’re not ones you’d necessarily like, indeed they’re everything you hope you aren’t, but it’s a gripping police procedural, and a great follow up to ‘The Blood Promise’.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ digital for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
July 13, 2025
This is typical of a lot of British and in this case Scottish detective books where you learn who done it rather than by reading about the police investigation you learn about everything from the criminal’s perspective which I don’t mind as long as its written well and it is in this case it’s definitely worth reading
October 3, 2024
The Revenge Pact by Liz Mistry is book 2 in the Solanki and McQueen police series, and again it is an extremely interesting and fascinating read.
I enjoyed meeting up with the Jazz Queens again and the storyline was a fascinating insight into the criminal fraternity In Edinburgh and Glasgow.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Highly recommended
I enjoyed meeting up with the Jazz Queens again and the storyline was a fascinating insight into the criminal fraternity In Edinburgh and Glasgow.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Highly recommended
November 18, 2024
The latest episode with Jazz and Queenie. Explores the relationship between inter-city gangs, family, personal relationships and mental health. We see Jazz and Queenie grow into their characters. This nuanced book is much more than a crime novel. It is a novel of secrets and lies and their consequences.
November 18, 2024
I have read previous books by Liz Mistry, both Gus McGuire and Nikki Mistry series and have enjoyed them all. I received an advanced reader copy of this second in this latest series with Detective Jas Solanki and her crew the Queenies. Like all her books and the element I most enjoy is the relationship of the team and how their friendship and support develops. The story is as always first class and Liz is never afraid to show the underbelly of some nasty criminals and their activities. More please Liz, already looking forward to the next in series
February 21, 2025
This book seemed to take forever before it finally started to make sense. I did feel I’d missed out in a lot of contexts through not reading the previous book which probably didn’t help storyline wise. Not a book I’d recommend unless you’ve read the previous one.
November 24, 2024
In 1971 the pact between Ricky’s Glasgow gang and Wee Frankie’s Edinburgh mob run by The Gaffer, a corrupt police officer, was shattered and they went their separate ways. Now it seems as if someone is trying to make the gangs turn on each other as their turf war apparently escalates and the younger generation of bosses Jimmy Nails and Loanie Gibbs are worried at the mistrust and rumours. Frankie’s two sons, Markie and Tommy Jones, have been murdered, thrown out of a moving vehicle on the road between Edinburgh and Ayr. In West Lothian and working from the Livingstone station, the D team of DS Jasmine Solanki (Jazzy) and DCs Annie McQueen (Queenie), Fenton Heggie and Geordie McBurnie (aka drag queen Misty Thistle) have been relegated to office duties by their odious DCI since the case in the first story and gradually Jazzy’s injuries are healing. Now Jazzy and Queenie have been let out by Jazzy’s biological father Chief Supt Afzal (still a secret to most people and no love lost there by Jazzy) to attend the crime scene. However, it’s not long before the Jazz Queens are split up, Geordie temporarily moved to A team and Fenton to B team with Jazzy and Queenie stuck on paperwork. An ideal chance for the young constables to report back and for the ladies to conduct a covert operation! Meanwhile as part of Operation Birchtree, Jazzy and DI Elliot Balloch are having to visit her half-brother Simon in his psychiatric hospital whilst his serial killer twin Mhairi is still at large, in contact with Simon and regularly taunting Jazzy by email. Until she is captured, everyone Jazzy cares about is at risk and soon those wonderful people in Stùrrach make another appearance. Also, an interesting cold case pops up for Jazzy and Queenie. The reader also hears from “The Vengeance”, a character returned from the other side of the world to their country of birth who has four tasks to perform before they die. What form will this revenge take, who will be on the receiving end and why?
I loved this second book just as much as the first one which I would suggest reading beforehand to get to know the history and all the main characters. The lovely caring humour and dynamic between the D team is fantastic and a real pleasure to read about. The story is inclusive in a completely natural way and uses very authentic words and phrases which I don’t think anyone reading would have any trouble in understanding. Overall, it’s a tense, dark, gritty and fast-moving story, full of twists and shocks which will keep the reader hooked and guessing right the way through. Thoroughly recommended and with a little teaser or two at the end, I can’t wait for book three!
I loved this second book just as much as the first one which I would suggest reading beforehand to get to know the history and all the main characters. The lovely caring humour and dynamic between the D team is fantastic and a real pleasure to read about. The story is inclusive in a completely natural way and uses very authentic words and phrases which I don’t think anyone reading would have any trouble in understanding. Overall, it’s a tense, dark, gritty and fast-moving story, full of twists and shocks which will keep the reader hooked and guessing right the way through. Thoroughly recommended and with a little teaser or two at the end, I can’t wait for book three!
October 14, 2024
Jazzy and Queenie are back with a bang.
Following the events of "The Blood Promise", the Jazz Queens, still recovering from their injuries, are promptly dropped into another nasty murder case, despite officially being on office duty. When two bodies are discovered at the side of a road, and are quickly identified as notorious gang members, with a recent upsurge in gang related violence, they begin to wish they'd stayed in the office.
Quickly the pair are neck-deep in an increasingly dark and disturbing case of east versus west, as rival gangs prepare for war. Long-time feuds resurface, and it soon becomes clear that the past is catching up to the present. The story moves forward at a breakneck pace, as the detectives uncover more bodies, secrets and lies. But there's plenty of time to discuss Scottish roads, Scottish music and Scottish cuisine. Throw in some suspected Police corruption and life for the pair gets really interesting.
As the title suggests, this book, the second in the Jazzy and Queenie series, is about revenge. But it's also about family, friendship and having the courage to keep going. Fans of the previous book will be glad to know that several threads from there are taken forward in "The Revenge Pact". We learn a little bit more about how Jazzy and Queenie came to be the people they are today and what makes them such a unique team. The author makes clear that aspects of her own life make their way into her books, which only goes to make them more heart-wrenching, and thought=provoking than ever. The scenes between Jazzy and Queenie are funny, sad, poignant and revealing and a joy to behold.
Readers like myself, from Scotland, and West Lothian in particular, will be pleased to know that local roads, towns and places of interest all feature heavily throughout the book, and one location in particular will hopefully encourage fans to Cairnpapple Hill.
Fan of Liz Mistry and of murder thrillers are going to love this. Heartily recommended.
Following the events of "The Blood Promise", the Jazz Queens, still recovering from their injuries, are promptly dropped into another nasty murder case, despite officially being on office duty. When two bodies are discovered at the side of a road, and are quickly identified as notorious gang members, with a recent upsurge in gang related violence, they begin to wish they'd stayed in the office.
Quickly the pair are neck-deep in an increasingly dark and disturbing case of east versus west, as rival gangs prepare for war. Long-time feuds resurface, and it soon becomes clear that the past is catching up to the present. The story moves forward at a breakneck pace, as the detectives uncover more bodies, secrets and lies. But there's plenty of time to discuss Scottish roads, Scottish music and Scottish cuisine. Throw in some suspected Police corruption and life for the pair gets really interesting.
As the title suggests, this book, the second in the Jazzy and Queenie series, is about revenge. But it's also about family, friendship and having the courage to keep going. Fans of the previous book will be glad to know that several threads from there are taken forward in "The Revenge Pact". We learn a little bit more about how Jazzy and Queenie came to be the people they are today and what makes them such a unique team. The author makes clear that aspects of her own life make their way into her books, which only goes to make them more heart-wrenching, and thought=provoking than ever. The scenes between Jazzy and Queenie are funny, sad, poignant and revealing and a joy to behold.
Readers like myself, from Scotland, and West Lothian in particular, will be pleased to know that local roads, towns and places of interest all feature heavily throughout the book, and one location in particular will hopefully encourage fans to Cairnpapple Hill.
Fan of Liz Mistry and of murder thrillers are going to love this. Heartily recommended.
November 12, 2024
The Revenge Pact by Liz Mistry is a gripping contemporary crime thriller that totally consumed me. It is the second book in the Solanki & McQueen series but can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading book one first as there is a background story, begun in the first book, which runs underneath the main story. The ending reminds us that there is unfinished business which will be carried over to the next book.
I have to say the writing is superb. I loved the juxtaposing of opposites within a single sentence. “I’m clinging to life so that I can cause death.”
We follow gang-related crimes in Edinburgh and Glasgow, as decades old feuds continue. Turf wars between rival gangs mean trust is in short supply and memories are long.
A cold case is resurrected and reignites a desire to bring the guilty to justice.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. They are rough, tough and ready – the criminals and police. There is no honor among thieves. In contrast the Jazz Queens in the force have each other’s backs.
There is a camaraderie between Solanki and McQueen. On the outside they present a tough shell which is needed to police the streets, but their inner shells show both of their vulnerability as they fight inner demons.
Much of the novel is in the third person but some is in the first person as we ‘hear’ from the person who wants vengeance. I tried to guess who it was – and failed, again! My jaw dropped at the big reveal.
Liz Mistry has written a very authentic novel. It is easy to picture the crime-ridden streets with the turf wars and the fruity language of both the heroes and villains.
The Revenge Pact was a suspenseful read and would make a marvellous television series for after the 9pm watershed.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A word of caution: There are some scenes and language that some readers may not like.
I have to say the writing is superb. I loved the juxtaposing of opposites within a single sentence. “I’m clinging to life so that I can cause death.”
We follow gang-related crimes in Edinburgh and Glasgow, as decades old feuds continue. Turf wars between rival gangs mean trust is in short supply and memories are long.
A cold case is resurrected and reignites a desire to bring the guilty to justice.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. They are rough, tough and ready – the criminals and police. There is no honor among thieves. In contrast the Jazz Queens in the force have each other’s backs.
There is a camaraderie between Solanki and McQueen. On the outside they present a tough shell which is needed to police the streets, but their inner shells show both of their vulnerability as they fight inner demons.
Much of the novel is in the third person but some is in the first person as we ‘hear’ from the person who wants vengeance. I tried to guess who it was – and failed, again! My jaw dropped at the big reveal.
Liz Mistry has written a very authentic novel. It is easy to picture the crime-ridden streets with the turf wars and the fruity language of both the heroes and villains.
The Revenge Pact was a suspenseful read and would make a marvellous television series for after the 9pm watershed.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A word of caution: There are some scenes and language that some readers may not like.
January 15, 2025
The Revenge Pact Liz Mistry
5 stars
The 2nd in the Series, better than the first!
I loved the first book in this series and this one was even better.
DS 'Jazzy'Solanki is still recovering from her last case involving her twin Simon and her half-sister Mhairi. Who committed various murders. Simon is in custody but Mhairi is still free and threatening Jazzy with emails telling her she will come for her.
Jazzy's boss, DCI Dick has an intense dislike of Jazzy and her team and confines her to desk duties. She is also struggling with her relationship with her father , DCS Afzal, who is the main boss but also deserted her and her siblings many years before,
When two brothers are found murdered it is thought that this is the result of a gang warfare between rivals from Edinburgh and Glasgow however the two heads of the gangs, Jimmy Nails and Loaine Gibbs are both being threatened by another person who calls themselves Vengeance.
When another body is found Jazzy gets an opportunity to get involved and away from her desk job and cannot wait to get her team together. Familiar characters from the last book are introduced again, the indomitable ,Queenie McQueen and Jazzy's friend and supporter DI Elliot Balloch. We learn more about the character's backgrounds and their struggles to do an extremely pressurised job under terrible circumstances.
The plot is complicated and is told from different viewpoints and jumps back to events that happened many years before.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am eagerly anticipating the next in the series. The author is on my list to request any further books but also to try and catch up on her previous novels.
Karen Deborah
Reviewer for Net galley
November 15, 2024
The turf war between gangs in Glasgow and Edinburgh appears to be escalating after Tommy and Markie Jones are found dead on the side of the road. When DS Jazzy Solanki and DC Queenie McQueen arrive at the scene they discover they are the nephews of Loanie Gibbs who runs a dangerous gang in Edinburgh but, as the investigation continues, Jazzy and Queenie begin to discover that not everything is as it seems and someone calling themselves Vengeance is determined to get justice for something but who are they and can the Jazz Queens figure it out before more deaths occur?
The Revenge Pact is the second book in the Solanki and McQueen series and, whilst still recovering from the horrors that happened to her in the previous book and trying to avoid running into her sister, who is out to finish her off, Jazzy is ready, with her team, The Jazz Queens, to solve the murders that have just occurred, but her boss DCI Dick has other ideas and wants to split the whole team up. Told from various perspectives this is a dark and intense read which delves into the subject of gangs and turf wars in the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, whilst also covering the delicate subjects of mental health and abuse, and even gives us a hint of Queenie's life growing up which was interesting, yet painful, to read about. It was great to see these two back again trying to clean up the streets of Scotland and make it a safer place to live. Looking forward to book three now.
I'd like to thank HQ and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
The Revenge Pact is the second book in the Solanki and McQueen series and, whilst still recovering from the horrors that happened to her in the previous book and trying to avoid running into her sister, who is out to finish her off, Jazzy is ready, with her team, The Jazz Queens, to solve the murders that have just occurred, but her boss DCI Dick has other ideas and wants to split the whole team up. Told from various perspectives this is a dark and intense read which delves into the subject of gangs and turf wars in the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, whilst also covering the delicate subjects of mental health and abuse, and even gives us a hint of Queenie's life growing up which was interesting, yet painful, to read about. It was great to see these two back again trying to clean up the streets of Scotland and make it a safer place to live. Looking forward to book three now.
I'd like to thank HQ and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
November 9, 2024
The second book in the Solanski and McQueen series set in Scotland and featuring DS Jasmine ‘Jazzy’ Solanski and her team including her friend DC Annie McQueen; the team call themselves the Jazz Queens. Jaz’s boss and her nemesis, DCI Dick, has her and her team on desk duty or helping other teams in minor roles. Told in multiple POV’s and timelines this is quite a complex case and Jaz is still under threat from her half sister following the events in the previous book.
Briefly, following a spate of murders, presumed as the ongoing turf war between Edinburgh gangster Loanie Gibbs and Glasgows Jimmy Nails, Jazzy and Annie have been sent to check out two bodies found near the ancient burial site called Cairnpapple Hill. The same place where, some 30 years earlier, an unidentified man was found. As the Jazz Queens delve deeper and deeper, despite the efforts of their vindictive DCI Dick, the case gets darker and darker.
This is a dark and disturbing read as third party intervention causes violent gang warfare to rip loose. Could be read as a stand-alone but I strongly recommend reading the first book for background. I didn’t find the dialect so confusing as in the previous book, in fact it adds to the authenticity. Love the relationship between Jazzy and Queenie and how they balance the sad events with humour. An excellent police procedural crime thriller.
Briefly, following a spate of murders, presumed as the ongoing turf war between Edinburgh gangster Loanie Gibbs and Glasgows Jimmy Nails, Jazzy and Annie have been sent to check out two bodies found near the ancient burial site called Cairnpapple Hill. The same place where, some 30 years earlier, an unidentified man was found. As the Jazz Queens delve deeper and deeper, despite the efforts of their vindictive DCI Dick, the case gets darker and darker.
This is a dark and disturbing read as third party intervention causes violent gang warfare to rip loose. Could be read as a stand-alone but I strongly recommend reading the first book for background. I didn’t find the dialect so confusing as in the previous book, in fact it adds to the authenticity. Love the relationship between Jazzy and Queenie and how they balance the sad events with humour. An excellent police procedural crime thriller.
November 23, 2024
I received an E-ARC with a request for my honest review.
This gritty, riveting crime thriller follows detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen in Scotland.
Two men are discovered dead by the side of the road and are soon to be identified to be part of a well know gang from Edinburgh. With the threat of an increase in gang violence, the police force must find out who can be behind the killings.
Jazzy soon finds herself on another mission to uncover if there is a leak in the police force, which also brings her closer to the gang rival case.
Will Jazzy find the leak? Will they discover who was behind the gang killings?
This crime thriller is gritty as it delves into the gang world in Edinburgh, and with the two rival gangs trying to work out who could be behind the killings along with the police, it is also a riveting read.
I admire how Jazzy is with her team, as they seem to be sidelined for most of the bigger cases, but instead of letting it get to her finds a way to bring her team together to solve the crimes.
I have read a few of this authors books, and although also police procedural, the author always delves deeper into the gang life and shows a grittier side. I can’t wait to read more from this series and others.
Overall, a gritty, riveting crime thriller where the police force must unravel the mystery behind local gang killings.
This gritty, riveting crime thriller follows detectives Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen in Scotland.
Two men are discovered dead by the side of the road and are soon to be identified to be part of a well know gang from Edinburgh. With the threat of an increase in gang violence, the police force must find out who can be behind the killings.
Jazzy soon finds herself on another mission to uncover if there is a leak in the police force, which also brings her closer to the gang rival case.
Will Jazzy find the leak? Will they discover who was behind the gang killings?
This crime thriller is gritty as it delves into the gang world in Edinburgh, and with the two rival gangs trying to work out who could be behind the killings along with the police, it is also a riveting read.
I admire how Jazzy is with her team, as they seem to be sidelined for most of the bigger cases, but instead of letting it get to her finds a way to bring her team together to solve the crimes.
I have read a few of this authors books, and although also police procedural, the author always delves deeper into the gang life and shows a grittier side. I can’t wait to read more from this series and others.
Overall, a gritty, riveting crime thriller where the police force must unravel the mystery behind local gang killings.
November 10, 2024
I hadn't realised when I got this book it was the second in a series - knowing this might have helped at the beginning with sorting out the cast of characters both villains and good guys. Many of the characters have nick names and working out the relationships to each other was somewhat confusing in the beginning.
Once the story had got going it was a gripping plot and fast moving. However not all the loose ends are tied up and it is set up for at least one more in the series - something that always leaves me feeling cheated.
I liked the idea of the tight group of detectives working together but wonder at their relationship with their boss who is rude and unprofessional and yet is not hauled up over this despite the main character of Jazzy and Queenie being righteous and hard nosed. The tech aspects and the use of drones make this a very up-to-date read but this was somewhat spoiled by some of the rather 'twee' Scottishness in things like pub names and references.
Overall I was a bit conflicted - I did enjoy the plot but didn't find the book a great read. I've certainly preferred other books by this author.
With thanks to Netgalley and HQ stories for an arc copy in return for an honest review.
Once the story had got going it was a gripping plot and fast moving. However not all the loose ends are tied up and it is set up for at least one more in the series - something that always leaves me feeling cheated.
I liked the idea of the tight group of detectives working together but wonder at their relationship with their boss who is rude and unprofessional and yet is not hauled up over this despite the main character of Jazzy and Queenie being righteous and hard nosed. The tech aspects and the use of drones make this a very up-to-date read but this was somewhat spoiled by some of the rather 'twee' Scottishness in things like pub names and references.
Overall I was a bit conflicted - I did enjoy the plot but didn't find the book a great read. I've certainly preferred other books by this author.
With thanks to Netgalley and HQ stories for an arc copy in return for an honest review.
October 30, 2024
Solanki and McQueen are back! This is the second book in the series of the Jazz queens. When the head of a notable gang is killed and there is already a known turf war ,the Jazz Queens find it hard to be directed to desk jobs by the boss they really don’t like. Jaz is still nursing an injured arm from their last escapade but the boss is keen to split up the team. Being behind a desk however could be a good place to find out if there really is a mole in the building. Meanwhile there are communications of not a nice sort- some to Jaz from her sister- who is a serial killer who has evaded justice, and some to gang members from Vengeance. What is going on and why?
This is a great series which takes the reader right into the heart of the action. Liz has a skill of characterisation and more, I can't help but like the Jazz queens. This is set in Scotland and has some colloquialisms in (which are explained) which gives the grit and edge of the characters. A clever, calculated twisty plot with wonderful characters to make a highly enjoyable read.
For more reviews please follow me on X (formerly Twitter) @nickisbookblog
------------------------------------------------
November 29, 2024
This is the second in the Solanki and McQueen series and already its proving to be an absolute winner. If you are looking for a series that is fast paced, gritty and action packed then don't let this one pass you by.
Based in West Lothian where the author grew up it is perfectly placed for this story, slap bang in between Scotland's two biggest cities Glasgow and Edinburgh where gang warfare between the two is escalating out of control. The crime lords in each city is blaming the other for the escalation in violence and killings although there is a third party creating havoc . Known only as Vengeance this person is playing people against each other in order to gain revenge for previous misdemeanours. With bodies being dumped in West Lothian it is left with the out of favour Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen to solve the crimes and stop the violence. As the story progresses it becomes clear that "Queenie" has history with the crime lord from Glasgow which is just one of the many twists in this tale.
This book is really well written and links in well with the first book in the series, "Blood Promise" which I would highly recommend reading before reading this one although it is not essential as you will still love this book in its own right.
Based in West Lothian where the author grew up it is perfectly placed for this story, slap bang in between Scotland's two biggest cities Glasgow and Edinburgh where gang warfare between the two is escalating out of control. The crime lords in each city is blaming the other for the escalation in violence and killings although there is a third party creating havoc . Known only as Vengeance this person is playing people against each other in order to gain revenge for previous misdemeanours. With bodies being dumped in West Lothian it is left with the out of favour Jazzy Solanki and Annie McQueen to solve the crimes and stop the violence. As the story progresses it becomes clear that "Queenie" has history with the crime lord from Glasgow which is just one of the many twists in this tale.
This book is really well written and links in well with the first book in the series, "Blood Promise" which I would highly recommend reading before reading this one although it is not essential as you will still love this book in its own right.
December 30, 2024
The second in the fabulous 'Jazz Queens' series featuring Solanki and McQueen (and I would definitely start with the first book The Blood Promise so that you get the back story behind this motley crew).
Stoically ignoring the orders from above that see them benched, Jazzy and Annie pay no heed to threats and warnings from inside and outside of the force and begin their own investigations into the gang feuds on the streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The banter is still there but there are also some touching moments between the lead characters as once again trust is on the line and some big leaps of faith are required.
The murder of the nephews of Edinburgh gangster Loanie Gibbs sparks gang crimes across Edinburgh and Glasgow, as new life is breathed into historic feuds and the mean streets get meaner and huge risks need to be taken get to the bottom of the murders.
Did I have a hunch who Vengeance was, maybe, but these two and their crew are really beginning to grow on me and I enjoy the authentic feel of the world that Liz Mistry has created - looking forward to book 3!
My thanks to the author, Netgalley and HQ Digital for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Stoically ignoring the orders from above that see them benched, Jazzy and Annie pay no heed to threats and warnings from inside and outside of the force and begin their own investigations into the gang feuds on the streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The banter is still there but there are also some touching moments between the lead characters as once again trust is on the line and some big leaps of faith are required.
The murder of the nephews of Edinburgh gangster Loanie Gibbs sparks gang crimes across Edinburgh and Glasgow, as new life is breathed into historic feuds and the mean streets get meaner and huge risks need to be taken get to the bottom of the murders.
Did I have a hunch who Vengeance was, maybe, but these two and their crew are really beginning to grow on me and I enjoy the authentic feel of the world that Liz Mistry has created - looking forward to book 3!
My thanks to the author, Netgalley and HQ Digital for an ARC in return for an honest review.
November 8, 2024
A killer of a read!
A gritty and fast paced crime thriller. Cleverly plotted and well executed. Turf wars between two of Scotland's finest and notorious gangs reach boiling point with unexplained deaths leading to consequential ramifications.
Detectives Jazzy and Queenie have more questions than answers, people are keeping quiet, things just don't add up. Too many spanners are being thrown in to the works...but by who? Someone is out to mislead and confuse and doing an excellent job! But why? The 'families' past comes back to haunt by whatever means...revenge is sweet.
There are many intricate threads woven into this complex and jaw dropping story, each one relevant and fascinating. It delves a little deeper into the lives of Jazzy and Queenie and what makes them tick or unfold...as the case maybe! A little drop of humour and a big dollop of sarcasm lighten the mood in this very dark and nail biting read. Another great series in the making by Liz Mistry and I can't wait to catch up with 'The Jazz Queens' in the next book.
A gritty and fast paced crime thriller. Cleverly plotted and well executed. Turf wars between two of Scotland's finest and notorious gangs reach boiling point with unexplained deaths leading to consequential ramifications.
Detectives Jazzy and Queenie have more questions than answers, people are keeping quiet, things just don't add up. Too many spanners are being thrown in to the works...but by who? Someone is out to mislead and confuse and doing an excellent job! But why? The 'families' past comes back to haunt by whatever means...revenge is sweet.
There are many intricate threads woven into this complex and jaw dropping story, each one relevant and fascinating. It delves a little deeper into the lives of Jazzy and Queenie and what makes them tick or unfold...as the case maybe! A little drop of humour and a big dollop of sarcasm lighten the mood in this very dark and nail biting read. Another great series in the making by Liz Mistry and I can't wait to catch up with 'The Jazz Queens' in the next book.
October 13, 2024
The Revenge Pact is the second in the series led by (newly reinstated) DS Jasmine Solanki and DC Annie McQueen, AKA Jazzy and Queenie. The pair of West Lothian detectives are sidelined following their last case (detailed in book 1) while a war between criminal gangs in Glasgow and Edinburgh rages.
Eventually sheer lack of resources brings Jazzy and Queenie to the fray, and they discover that a mysterious individual is stirring up trouble between the two gangs. But who and why? The pair, ably assisted by the rest of their team, delve into the past to find answers. It's an uncomfortable journey. And, don't forget, Jazzy's serial killer sister is still on the loose.
The Revenge Pact is a complex and expertly crafted thriller. There are many plot lines, past and present, and a large cast of characters. The pace is fast, the plot engaging and we find out a lot about the lead characters too. An excellent read.
Eventually sheer lack of resources brings Jazzy and Queenie to the fray, and they discover that a mysterious individual is stirring up trouble between the two gangs. But who and why? The pair, ably assisted by the rest of their team, delve into the past to find answers. It's an uncomfortable journey. And, don't forget, Jazzy's serial killer sister is still on the loose.
The Revenge Pact is a complex and expertly crafted thriller. There are many plot lines, past and present, and a large cast of characters. The pace is fast, the plot engaging and we find out a lot about the lead characters too. An excellent read.
October 30, 2024
McQueen and Solanki are in trouble with their boss, Dick … again! They go off piste, and the Jazz Queens work the case on the side.
With gangsters being murdered, and someone out for vengeance, they have a lot to try and deal with on the side.
With Solanki’s sister, Bitch, still on the loose, the team are also having to watch their backs.
The Jazz Queens are back! I am loving this series, it is action-packed from start to finish.
The author works her magic and also includes important things like the mental health of the police officers. Seeing the horrendous sights they see, their mental health must be looked after.
With both Solanki and McQueen having issues, they need to trust and rely on each other. The friendship they have shines through.
This is the second book in the series, and I hope that there will be many more to come.
My thanks to HQ Digital for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
With gangsters being murdered, and someone out for vengeance, they have a lot to try and deal with on the side.
With Solanki’s sister, Bitch, still on the loose, the team are also having to watch their backs.
The Jazz Queens are back! I am loving this series, it is action-packed from start to finish.
The author works her magic and also includes important things like the mental health of the police officers. Seeing the horrendous sights they see, their mental health must be looked after.
With both Solanki and McQueen having issues, they need to trust and rely on each other. The friendship they have shines through.
This is the second book in the series, and I hope that there will be many more to come.
My thanks to HQ Digital for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 10, 2024
Book 2 of Solanki and McQueen Crime Series
Jazzy and Queenie are on desk duty. When two bodies are found at the side of the road, they are quickly identified as notorious gang members. Who was responsible for these murders - the Edinburgh or Glasgow crime gangs? Solanki's sister, who is a serial killer, is still on the run.
This is a cleverly crafted and complex story. We learn more of Jazzy and Queenie's background stories. It's all going on in this book. With the action starting straight away, there's more than enough going on to keep you turning the pages. But there are a lot of characters to try and keep track of. The pace is fast in this twisted read with lots of threads running throughout. There was a little humour thrown into the mix. I'm looking forward to reading what the "Jazz Queens" get up to next.
Published 21st November 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQDigital and the author #LizMistry for my ARC of #TheRevengePact in exchange for an honest review.
Jazzy and Queenie are on desk duty. When two bodies are found at the side of the road, they are quickly identified as notorious gang members. Who was responsible for these murders - the Edinburgh or Glasgow crime gangs? Solanki's sister, who is a serial killer, is still on the run.
This is a cleverly crafted and complex story. We learn more of Jazzy and Queenie's background stories. It's all going on in this book. With the action starting straight away, there's more than enough going on to keep you turning the pages. But there are a lot of characters to try and keep track of. The pace is fast in this twisted read with lots of threads running throughout. There was a little humour thrown into the mix. I'm looking forward to reading what the "Jazz Queens" get up to next.
Published 21st November 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQDigital and the author #LizMistry for my ARC of #TheRevengePact in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2024
Much as I liked book 1 in this series, I really loved this one. Set in the central belt of Scotland, we are drawn into the ganglands of both Glasgow and Edinburgh, but then a third party is involved and nobody can figure out who or why - neither the police nor the gangs bosses. Enter the Jazz Queens and although Jazzy has been given her previous role back, their boss decides to split the team - not that that stops them !! Throw in cold case of a body found on Cairnpapple Hill and sit back and enjoy a roller coaster of a ride. Cannot wait now for book 3.
Btw - loved the mention of Lipton's orphans - took me back to my childhood and my granny saying it !!
Point 1 : there is a lot of local dialect used but this just adds to the story.
Point 2 : there are some scenes which may not suit everyone's taste.
Point 3 : It really is best to read the first one to give you a better overview of the team and their backgrounds.
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ for the ARC to review
Btw - loved the mention of Lipton's orphans - took me back to my childhood and my granny saying it !!
Point 1 : there is a lot of local dialect used but this just adds to the story.
Point 2 : there are some scenes which may not suit everyone's taste.
Point 3 : It really is best to read the first one to give you a better overview of the team and their backgrounds.
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ for the ARC to review
November 26, 2024
The Jazz Queens are back and this time it’s all about revenge! Not them exacting revenge mind, they’re faced with someone hellbent on revenge and they have to find out who and why!! But it’s not going to be easy when there are gangs involved!
The chapters entitled Vengeance gave me the creeps. This individual’s desire for revenge is deep rooted and unnerving. Their identity intrigued me. I needed to know who they were!!
Oh my the climax was something. I was living it as if I was watching the body cams of police officers, listening to their whispered messages. I held my breath hoping no one was spotted or heard as this tense showdown played out on my kindle.
Once again Mistry has got the perfect balance between the dark nature of brutal murder and the entertaining banter between the team. The splashes of lightheartedness gives off sets from the grittiness of warring gangs and shock of the dropping bodies. Just brilliant!!
The chapters entitled Vengeance gave me the creeps. This individual’s desire for revenge is deep rooted and unnerving. Their identity intrigued me. I needed to know who they were!!
Oh my the climax was something. I was living it as if I was watching the body cams of police officers, listening to their whispered messages. I held my breath hoping no one was spotted or heard as this tense showdown played out on my kindle.
Once again Mistry has got the perfect balance between the dark nature of brutal murder and the entertaining banter between the team. The splashes of lightheartedness gives off sets from the grittiness of warring gangs and shock of the dropping bodies. Just brilliant!!
November 11, 2024
I am a fan of this authors writing and The Revenge Pact is a fast paced read full of tension and suspense that grabbed my attention and interest right from the start and held it all the way through to the last page. When two men are found murdered Jazzy and Queenie investigate. I like the intricately woven story threads that kept me guessing who the murderer was. I enjoyed finding out more about Queenie's past and that whilst she comes across as brash, doesn't care what others think, she has a vulnerable, soft side. The story is well written and has a good, well thought out plot line that is all to believeable in todays world with themes of organised crime and police corruption. If you like crime, or police procedurals I'd recommend this but would say read the series in order to get to know the characters and backgrounds from the beginning.
4 stars
4 stars
November 12, 2024
Back with the Jazz Queens!
Jazzy, Queenie and their team are on desk duty, after their unlikeable boss wasn’t happy with their conduct on their last case.
The story is based around gang wars in Edinburgh and Glasgow, with a mysterious “vindicator” who has returned from abroad to enact what they deem to be justice, before they die.
There were a lot of characters to get acquainted with and I was confused for a while, which made it harder for me to fully engage with the people and the plot, as I was able to do instantly with the first book in the series.
It all came together brilliantly at the end and the banter continued between the Jazz Queens and their growing bond, while Jazzy continues to struggle with her family circumstances.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Liz Mistry and HQ for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Jazzy, Queenie and their team are on desk duty, after their unlikeable boss wasn’t happy with their conduct on their last case.
The story is based around gang wars in Edinburgh and Glasgow, with a mysterious “vindicator” who has returned from abroad to enact what they deem to be justice, before they die.
There were a lot of characters to get acquainted with and I was confused for a while, which made it harder for me to fully engage with the people and the plot, as I was able to do instantly with the first book in the series.
It all came together brilliantly at the end and the banter continued between the Jazz Queens and their growing bond, while Jazzy continues to struggle with her family circumstances.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Liz Mistry and HQ for an ARC in return for an honest review.
November 23, 2024
This is the second in the Solanki & McQueen series & I would suggest that you read book 1 first; then it would make much more sense . I love Scottish crime books & this has Scottishness in bucketloads, from the settings, the vernacular, the menu choices & the author herself.
The Jazz Queens, Jazzy & Queenie, are recovering from the aftermath of book 1. They have been sidelined, but when they are first on scene for a brutal double murder, they decide to investigate under the radar. Focussing on long time gang feuds between Glasgow & Edinburgh, it appears cut & dried as to who is responsible for the escalating violence. But it isn’t. Vengeance is being meted out by an unknown source.
Yes, there is torture & gore. Yes, there are some heart-wrenching moments. Yes, it is a brilliant plot & yes, I recommend you read it.
The Jazz Queens, Jazzy & Queenie, are recovering from the aftermath of book 1. They have been sidelined, but when they are first on scene for a brutal double murder, they decide to investigate under the radar. Focussing on long time gang feuds between Glasgow & Edinburgh, it appears cut & dried as to who is responsible for the escalating violence. But it isn’t. Vengeance is being meted out by an unknown source.
Yes, there is torture & gore. Yes, there are some heart-wrenching moments. Yes, it is a brilliant plot & yes, I recommend you read it.
December 8, 2024
The Jazz Queens have been side-lined as their boss suitably named Dick didn't like their actions in their last case! However they soon find themselves in the thick of a gang warfare. The gangs of Edinburgh & Glasgow have always been at each others from who knows when. When people are killed from both sides of the divide Jazzie & Queenie find themselves involved- but off the record as they are not supposed to be doing anything that may draw attention to how good they actually are! The setting of the story is rich in the atmosphere, language & ethos of Scotland. At times it is very funny, at others brutal & often sad. The characters are brilliant!
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review of this book. This was a worthy continuation of a a series & I can't wait for the next
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review of this book. This was a worthy continuation of a a series & I can't wait for the next
December 13, 2024
The second in the series with two feisty female Scottish detectives. There is a lot going on in the plot which is told from different viewpoints. Some one is out for revenge for the killing of a man a long time ago, there is friction in the gangs of Glasgow and Edinburgh, within the groups and between the groups. There are also problems within the investigating team . Both Jasmine and Annie have had a problem youth and have suffered personal losses. All this made for a fragmented plot, certainly in the first chapters which took me a while to get sorted out in my mind, meanwhile people were being abused and turning up dead. The concluding chapters see some conclusions, but also seemed a little rushed when compared to the pace earler on. A good read though and I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for the team .
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
January 1, 2025
The turf war between the Glasgow and Edinburgh gangs is long-standing but a series of murders mean that it is now ramped up. For Jazzy and Queenie, the chance to get involved in a serious case is great but for both they are torn. Jazzy is still being taunted by her half-sister and Queenie was brought up in the area run by one gang. Add into that the fact that both sides are being targeted by an enemy calling themselves 'Vengeance' and that actually the 'Gaffer' running the gangs is ex-police.
This is a great read! Jazzy and Queenie are developing as characters and, despite their complex back-stories, make a great detective team. The plot is complex and rather sad. What is also excellent is the twist around mental health with both main protagonists working through their issues. I look forward to the next episode.
This is a great read! Jazzy and Queenie are developing as characters and, despite their complex back-stories, make a great detective team. The plot is complex and rather sad. What is also excellent is the twist around mental health with both main protagonists working through their issues. I look forward to the next episode.
October 28, 2024
The Revenge Pact reunites us with the Jazz Queens, now sidelined and given office jobs until they are needed to help when rival gang wars erupt and members are being found tortured and murdered, added to this an unknown person is out for revenge and is causing chaos between these gang leaders.
Although a good well constructed storyline with scenes that are described chillingly well I did find the first half of the book confusing with all the various character, plus the written Scottish accent made it difficult for me impeded and the flow of the book. That said it was well plotted with some pretty big reveals and a finale that tied everything together nicely.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
Although a good well constructed storyline with scenes that are described chillingly well I did find the first half of the book confusing with all the various character, plus the written Scottish accent made it difficult for me impeded and the flow of the book. That said it was well plotted with some pretty big reveals and a finale that tied everything together nicely.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews