So wie sie gemeinsam am Küchentisch sitzen, könnte die junge Familie glatt aus einem Bilderbuch stammen. Aber niemand bewegt sich, als Rauch ins Zimmer drängt und das Haus um sie herum sich in ein brennendes Grab verwandelt …
Als Detective Morgan Brookes die verbrannten Überreste des Hauses betritt, bietet sich ihr ein makabres Die Leichen von Sally und David Lawson sowie die ihres kleinen Sohnes sitzen noch immer gefesselt an ihrem Küchentisch. Sie hatten keine Chance, den Flammen zu entkommen.
Um Sallys Hals liegt eine silberne Kruzifix-Kette, doch laut ihren Freunden war sie nicht religiös. Sieht der Täter sich als Vollstrecker des göttlichen Gerichts?
Morgan findet heraus, dass Sally in ihren letzten Tagen vermutete, einen Stalker zu haben. Als auf dem Handy ihres Nachbars Luke heimlich geschossene Fotos von ihr gefunden werden, scheint Morgan auf der richtigen Spur zu sein.
Doch dann berichtet eine weitere Frau, sich beobachtet zu fühlen, und diesmal besteht augenscheinlich keine Verbindung zu Luke. Ist der wahre Mörder womöglich noch immer auf freiem Fuß? Und kann Morgan ihn rechtzeitig finden, bevor noch jemand weiteres sterben muss?
Der nächste süchtig machende Band in der hochspannenden Serie um Detective Morgan Brookes. Perfekt für Fans von Robert Dugoni, Lisa Regan und T.M. Payne.
Was über Ihre brennenden Gräber
»Unmöglich wegzulegen. Ich konnte nicht aufhören, dieses Buch zu lesen! Es hat mich sofort gepackt.« Tove Reads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
»Einfach genial … Eine meiner Lieblingsserien. Sobald ich angefangen hatte zu lesen, war mir klar, dass ich bis zum letzten Kapitel alles andere um mich herum vergessen würde.« @Leona.oMahony, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
»Was für ein nervenaufreibendes Buch von Anfang bis zum Schluss!! … Ich hatte Gänsehaut … Ich war gefesselt und bin durch die Seiten gerast, um die Auflösung herauszufinden … Nervenkitzel pur!« Goodreads-Rezension, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
»Ein packender, spannender Anfang … eine nervenzerreißende Achterbahnfahrt, die dich die Seiten rasant umblättern lässt, um zu sehen, was als Nächstes passiert.« @rubie_reads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
»Wird dich bis zum Ende miträtseln lassen! … Ich kann den nächsten Band kaum erwarten! Hab es in einem Wahnsinnstempo verschlungen.« Goodreads-Rezension, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
»Hat mir Schauer über den Rücken gejagt … Wow! … Hat mich völlig umgehauen! Dieses Buch ist großartig! … Fantastisch!« @jonannlovesbooktalk, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
»Von der ersten Seite an gefesselt und in einem Rutsch verschlungen. Ein weiterer nervenzerreißender Thriller … Fünf Sterne, nein, eigentlich klare zehn Sterne.
Firstly I would like to thank netgalley, and Bookoutune, and the fantastic author Helen phifer for an early copy of her book.
Another brilliant read from this author, still to read a few books in this series, could read as standalone books..A burning house,Detective Morgan Brooks on the scene discovered three family members tied to a table with a missing limb. Who is behind this murder?a fantastic read one of my favourites In this series and a great ending. Looking forward to reading more of her books. Highly recommend...
I adore Helen Phifer's books. I have no idea how she manages to write so quickly, without it sacrificing at all on the plot or characters. This latest installment in the Morgan Brookes is a belter. The opening scenes are shocking and wince-inducing to read, and full of suspense. The title is so memorable, I instantly will remember what the story was about for months to come. I raced through this book in just a few days. Helen writes stories with so much drama and intrigue that the whodunit radar in you just keeps going until the end. Just brilliant.
I just adore Helen Phifer's books and this series is one of my favourites, despite Morgan's ability to get into sticky situations all on her own with no back-up and I have to wonder...does she never learn? LOL Nevertheless, I am always eager to dive into whatever latest installment that awaits whilst piecing together all the clues Phifer drip-feeds her readers throughout. And of course I was not disappointed.
THEIR BURNING GRAVES is the eighth book in this exciting series and as with each other the characters simply grow beneath the tip of Phifer's pen. I love their camaraderie and banter and seeing how far loner Morgan has come since the first book that I read, which was in fact the second book in the series "The Killer's Girl". I still have the very first one sitting on my shelf to get to one of these days so that I can go back and see how and where it all began.
THEIR BURNING GRAVES opens with a shocking prologue and scenes of carnage that the reader just knows will come back to bite someone in the butt when they least expect it. I mean, that's how crime thrillers like this go, right? But in the final paragraphs of this opening, there is enough there to send chills down your spine as you can picture the scene as if you had witnessed it in reality.
Morgan Brookes is recovering from a sprained ankle she gained at the close of their last case in which they lost a fellow colleague and friend, Des Black. The team are still reeling from his loss, even blaming themselves, leaving them a team member down with just the three of them.
And then are called to a scene in which three family members are found dead around the kitchen table. Their neighbour called in to report their house on fire but that isn't what killed them. And that isn't the worst of it by any means. But who wanted Sally and David Lawson, and their their 14 year old son Tim, dead?
The Lawsons appear, on the surface, to the perfect family. They lived in a beautiful house in an affluent part of Rydal Falls so why were they targeted? No matter how deep they dig or what they uncover, Morgan feels sure that this crime was personal. But why? And who was the real target of these murders? Was it David, the English lecturer? Or Sally, the beauty salon owner? Or maybe it was Tim, the student who had suddenly fallen behind in his grades and had been lured to the dark web? But then what of the scene? Why was Sally wearing a crucifix if she wasn't religious? Why was the entire family murdered if only one of them was the target?
A chance encounter leads Morgan to a cafe-come-store called Practical Magic, after one of Morgan's favourite movies, where she meets the owner Annie. When Annie alerts her to concerns for one of her regular customers, Morgan is quick to lend a hand but is soon left thinking - what does it all mean? And how is it linked to the Lawson murder?
Can Morgan piece it all together and save another woman and her family from an obsessed and vengeful killer before it's too late?
Helen Phifer truly does it again with this heart-pounding addition to an already exciting series that was a quick read I read in a day. But I do find myself shaking my head at Morgan and wondering when will she ever learn? Time and time again, she puts herself in harm's way without back-up as if she is a a one woman crusader of the bionic kind that no killer can touch. Yes, it is exciting and makes for thrilling reading, but seriously, after eight books Morgan, you should know better by now. As much as I love this series and it does get better and better, I do tire sometimes of Morgan's relentless going in single-handedly to save the day. Can she not at least have a partner on hand to aid her should it all go pear-shaped? Does she always have to go it alone? I'm sorry, but for me common sense prevails. And in reality, Morgan would have been hauled over the coals for continually putting herself in danger. But I know I know...it's just a book. And of course, it makes for exciting reading. Her behaviour just frustrates me sometimes when she really should know better.
That aside, THEIR BURNING GRAVES is a brilliant read I devoured in a day. Although I found the mystery an easier puzzle this time round and easily pieced most of it together before the final showdown, it didn't ruin my enjoyment of it by any means. What I did find a little puzzling was a possible red herring that kind of backfired when Morgan was questioning a person of interest and was left feeling spooked by their summation of events and thinking to herself that she hadn't disclosed that information to them. But if you go back a few pages in that conversation, she did indeed reveal the very information she said she hadn't. So I feel that this was meant to be a red herring to put readers off the track but in the end it was kind of redundant.
Another point was the non-existent mobile phone signal at one of the scenes where Morgan couldn't call in to the station until she had left and signal had returned, but at the end she was at that very same place when she received a call on her phone...and yet throughout the entire book there had been no signal??
I did feel some of the stories of those involved weren't wrapped up as neatly this time round and I would have liked to see Maggie one last time as she was such an endearing character. I wouldn't mind sitting at her table and sampling her goodies.
Nevertheless, THEIR BURNING GRAVES is a fantastic addition to the series and an exciting story that unfolded superbly. I still enjoy the team's camaraderie and even miss Des, as irritating as he could be at times, but I welcome to addition of their newest member to the team as I feel he will be an incredible asset to them, as he was already an endearing character.
I did miss one character, though she did get a mention. Ettie. She is delightful and I would love to see more of her. I hope we do.
The ending was a little unexpected, as it usually ended with Morgan and Ben debriefing in some way. It wasn't as if it had left the space open to continue onto the next book as it was only relevant to this story. I didn't not like it, it was just different to what I had expected. However, I did thoroughly enjoy this thrill-ride and look forward to the next installment for which I hope we don't have too long to wait...
I thoroughly recommend the entire Morgan Brookes series.
I would like to thank #HelenPhifer, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheirBurningGraves in exchange for an honest review.
When reports come in of a family trapped in a burning house, Detective Morgan Brookes rushes to the scene. But as soon as she enters the ruined home, she is devastated by what she finds. Tied to the kitchen table, Sally and David Lawson, and their young son, had no chance the flames and smoke. Neighbours agree the Lawsons were the perfect family, and CCTV shows nothing suspicious. Morgan's only clue is the silver crucifix necklace around Sally's neck. Because according to friends, she wasn't religious. Was someone passing devine judgement on the mother and her family? focusing on Sally's last steps, Morgan gets the breakthrough she needs - just fays ago Sally had confined in a friend that someone was watching her.
This is another great addition to the Morgan Brookes series. The team are still devastated after the tragic event that took place in their last case. Ben, Morgan and the rest of their team want to get the Lawson case solved asap. This is quite a dark read. The pace is fast from the beginning. There's plenty of twist and turns in this well written and gripping read. I love the authors writing style. She knows how to pull you in and keep your attention throughout. We have a few suspects to choose from. I like that we get some continuity from the previous book. There were a few loose ends left hanging to be tied up in the next book. I hope we don't have to wait too long.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #HelenPhifer for my ARC of #TheirBurningGraves in exchange for an honest review.
Their Burning Graves (Detective Morgan Brookes Book 8) - by Helen Phifer. Book Review - 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Helen Phifer has once again outdone herself. Their Burning Graves is a magnificent book. I rarely find an author who can scare me enough to send shivers down my spine, but Phifer is a master of searing atmospheric plots. This is one of the reasons why I read everything she writes. Although this is book 8 in the Detective Morgan Brookes series, the stories can be read individually.
Synopsis: Around the dining room table sits a young, loving family. Smoke fills the room as the large home takes on the atmosphere of a burning grave. Tied to the table, Sally and David Lawson and their young son Tim have no chance of escaping the devastation.
Detective Morgan Brookes is called to the scene of a burning house with the family still inside. As she enters the burned house and witnesses the situation, she is distraught.
The Lawson family was reported to be a model family, and nearby security cameras showed nothing unusual. Sally's silver crucifix necklace is the only clue Morgan has. According to Sally's friends, she wasn't religious. Was Sally's family judged by a psychopath?
Their Burning Graves is available on December 19th, just in time for Christmas. The book would make a great stocking stuffer for some lucky readers.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing this book with me. Helen Phifer's talent is boundless! I love the Morgan Brookes series and am looking forward to book 9!
A house is on fire in an upscale neighborhood; inside it is the scene of the gruesome murder of three members of a family. Detective Constable Morgan Brooks and her team are on the case. While they investigate, the perpetrator has already picked out their next target.
The Morgan Brooks series was recommended to me by a fellow bookstagrammer; it is the first of the eight that I have read. It was a fast, engrossing read; the kind of mystery I typically like. While I enjoyed it, I don’t think it completely worked as a standalone. Regarding the members of the team and their past history, I felt as though I was coming in in the middle of a story and would have liked a brief summary to catch up. Some series authors are very careful to help new readers catch up; that did not occur in this book. I also felt that there were some questions left unanswered about the case. Despite these concerns, it was a decent read and I will certainly seek out number nine when it is available
THEIR BURNING GRAVES is the Eighth book in a police procedural series featuring Detective Morgan Brookes by Helen Phifer. I have read all of the books in this series and this book is a definite winner! Although this book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the books in order to get a full history.
The books in the Detective Morgan Brookes Series: BOOK 1-ONE LEFT ALIVE BOOK 2-THE KILLER’S GIRL BOOK 3-THE HIDING PLACE BOOK 4-FIRST GIRL TO DIE BOOK 5-FIND THE GIRL BOOK 6-SLEEPING DOLLS BOOK 7-SILENT ANGEL Book 8-THEIR BURNING GRAVES
This is my review of Their Burning Graves.
This is DC Morgan Brookes first day back at work in the CID office, in Rydal Falls, known as CAST, Crime and Safeguarding Team, after suffering from an injured ankle from her last case.
The cast of the small control team includes:
Sergeant Ben Matthews Detective Morgan Brookes DC Amy Smith DC Des Black (deceased-murdered on the job) Cain Robson-new to the unit
Detective Morgan Brookes and her boss, Sergeant Ben Matthews are a couple, and are living together at Ben’s house.
Detective Morgan receives a call re. house fire and fatalities, after a neighbor called in the fire. Detective Morgan Brookes rushes to the scene. But as soon as she enters the ruined home, she is devastated by what she finds.
Sally Lawson, her husband, David and fourteen-year-old son, Tim, were brutally murdered and their house set on fire. When the fire crew showed up, they discovered the bodies of Sally, David and Tim at the kitchen table, all slumped forward with plastic bags over their heads…all missing their right hands.
The Neighbors all agree the Lawsons were the perfect family. Morgan’s only clue is the silver crucifix necklace around Sally’s neck. Because according to friends, she wasn’t religious. Was someone passing judgement on this mother and her family?
Morgan learns that just days before the killing, Sally had confided in a friend that she felt someone was watching her. And then Morgan finds photos of Sally on her neighbor’s phone.
Then another local woman reports feeling watched.
It is now a race against time, for Morgan to solve this twisted mystery and expose the killer.
This is a fast-paced crime thriller with intriguing characters with a plot filled with twists and turns.
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Net Galley for my digital copy.
Another fantastic five star read from one of my favourite authors. Hooked from the last page. Literally devoured in one sitting. Another nail biting crime thriller. A house fire, a family killed at their kitchen table in a most abhorrent way. Who is the killer and more importantly why???. For me this book was the best in the Morgan Brookes series so far. Five stars, hell no ten stars and I can't wait to read more in this gripping and very addictive and one of my favourite series. Loved, loved it!!!!! Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Their Burning Graves by Helen Phifer is the 8th in the Detective Morgan Brookes series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – Contains spoilers from previous books) Morgan Brookes is living her dream. She is a Detective Constable for Rydal Falls. She works with her boyfriend, DS Ben Matthews, whom she recently moved in with. They've discovered he has some heart issues, but things are good. Other cast members include Amy, Wendy, Cain, Will, Cathy and Mads. They recently lost DC Des Black. Their new boss is DI Mark Howard, and the jury is still out. Their go-to Forensic Pathologist (and friend) is Declan Donnelly. After losing her mother, Morgan finally got to know her alcoholic step-dad, who turned out to be a good guy, but Stan is now dead. Her biological father, Gary Marks, was a rapist and a killer. Morgan's aunt Ettie is considered a "witch".
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Morgan is still nursing a sprained ankle from her last case, the one where they lost Des. The team are all dealing with his loss, and even though he may have not been a favorite around the station he is missed, and some feel guilty for his death. But right now it is just Ben, Morgan and Amy on the main team.
They get a case with three dead family members, found sitting at their kitchen table. The neighbour called in the fire, but that isn't what killed them. Sally and David Lawson, as well as their son Timmy, were already dead.
Everyone seems to agree that the Lawsons were the perfect family, but Morgan thinks this was personal. Why did Sally have a crucifix around her neck, when she wasn't religious? Why did the killer murder her family, and wait for Sally to return home so that she could see what had been done, before having the same done to her? Is someone playing God? This sounds like revenge, and when Morgan retraces the last few days of her life, she finds that Sally may have been stalked. Mind you, her son was into something strange as well.
Meanwhile there is another woman who is also feeling watched.
My Opinions: I continue to like the series. The plots are always good, with a fairly fast pace.
Morgan is a really good protagonist, if somewhat reckless. Although the age difference between her and Ben is a bit much, neither of them is bothered by it, and their relationship is solid. I actually like all the characters.
The story was told from Morgan's perspective, with an occasional chapter from the point of view of the unknown killer.
Everything worked really well.
I will continue to recommend this series. These books move quickly, and are always good.
For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
Big thanks to both Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review a copy of Their Burning Graves!
When reports come in of a family in a burning house, Detective Morgan Brookes rushes to the scene. But as soon as she enters the ruined home, she is devastated by what she finds. Tied to the kitchen table, this family had no chance of surviving.
I wasn't sure how it would be, jumping in at book #8. I don't really feel Their Burning Graves does well as a standalone. I wish I had read the previous books first, as there were things I was confused about. Does that mean I regret reading it? Not at all!!!
The book had a rather gruesome beginning, but the pace was fast, and I didn't have a clue as to whodunit! I very much liked Detective Morgan Brookes, and her boss/love interest, DS Ben Matthews. I really liked Cain, as well.
I hope in future books, Morgan won't go anywhere without backup, or without at least telling someone where she's going! I'm always annoyed when that happens in a book. Nonetheless, I enjoyed Their Burning Graves very much, and I will certainly read #9 when it is released!
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to join Detective Morgan's team and investigate a brutal murder. Tracks are almost gone, and time is running out....
But full of fantastic moments that are simply shocking, and intertwine through the dark threads of the story. The first part starts a little slow, but the second part, with its fast and disturbing pace, contributes to this book getting under the reader's skin and keeps them on the edge of the seat till the very end.
Review for 'Their Burning Graves' by Helen Phifer.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Helen Phifer, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 19th December 2022.
This is the tenth book I have read by this author. It is also the eighth book in the 'Detective Morgan Brookes' series but can be read as a standalone. I have also read 'Silent Angel' (book 7 in this series), 'Sleeping Dolls' (book 6 in this series) 'Find The Girl' (book 5 in series), 'First Girl To Die' (book 4 in this series), 'The Hiding Place' (book 3 in this series) , 'The Girls In The Lake' (book 2 in the 'Beth Adams series),' The Killer's Girl' (book 2 in this series) and 'One Left Alive' (the first book in this series) and 'LakeView House' (standalone) and would recommend them all.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A completely addictive and gripping crime thriller! Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni and Rachel Caine.' I am a huge fan of all three of this authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Helen and if this is half as good as 'Silent Angel' (book 7 in this series), 'Sleeping Dolls' (book 6 in this series) 'Find The Girl' (book 5 in series), 'First Girl To Die' (book 4 in this series), 'The Hiding Place' (book 3 in this series) , 'The Girls In The Lake' (book 2 in the 'Beth Adams series),' The Killer's Girl' (book 2 in this series) and 'One Left Alive' (the first book in this series) and 'LakeView House' (standalone) it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 51 chapters. The chapters medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Cumbria, UK 🇬🇧 The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually been on holidays to Cumbria so it will help me picture everything.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Detective Constable Morgan Brookes and Detective Sergeant Ben Matthews The benefits of third person perspective with multiple perspectives are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
Wow!!! Just Wow!!! I did not see that one coming!!! Yet another absolutely unputdownable page turning book from the extremely talented Helen Phifer!!!
This book is fantastically written and such an addictive and compelling read. Excellent descriptions making it so easy to imagine what's going on. The book cover and synopsis suit the storyline perfectly.
The storyline is an absolute roller-coaster ride filled with suspense, crime, drama, red herrings and is an absolutely explosive psychological thriller that kept me up until late at night. I just could not put it down!!! I completely blame Helen for the bags under my eyes!! This is just one of those series that I have no idea how as each of them have been explosively addictive but Helen manages to make each one better and better!!! This is such a high accomplishment and it is exactly why I cannot wait for each of these fantastic books to be released. Whether part of this fantastic series or standalone Helen completely sucks her readers in to the depths of each storyline and manages to completely captivate them until the very last page!! . Helen completely emerges the reader into the storyline and there is just no escaping so be warned!! Do not start this if you have plans for the day 😂 It gets harder and harder to surprise me when it comes to crime books after reading so many yet Helen manages to do it absolutely every single time!!! Helen please let me into your secret as I have no idea how you do it but each book gets better and better!! The storyline itself was very realistic and Helen's police experience shines through when your reading. I loved the Lisa Rigan and Josie Quinn reference especially as I've not long finished 'The Innocent Wife', book 16 in the series, myself. To see my review of that page turner check out my blog. I couldn't wait to get stuck in to this book after the absolute bombshells Helen left at the end of 'Silent Angels'. On one hand I couldn't wait and yet on the other I was practically peeping through my fingers after Marc split the team up after they had already suffered the huge blow with losing Detective Des. Thankfully, the team manages to get back together after Morgan is in the right (or wrong?) place at the right (Or wrong?) time. This is another storyline that tugs on the heartstrings as we say farewell to Des at his funeral and see how the team coped with saying goodbye to Des while also investigating a murder of a family many of the team knew the mum of. This book really does go to show how one small mistake can have such a huge ripple effect and can ruin so many lives and affect others. It is always a strange experience reading one of Helen's books as her storyline and writing skills make you want to keep flipping the pages until the end but then when you get there your absolutely gutted as you have to wait for the next book in this absolutely fantastic series that ticks each and every box!!
Congratulations Helen on yet another absolutely addictive, unputdownable explosive success!! Your books keep getting better and better which is incredible as I have loved each and every one of them. As always, looking forward to the next installment in this epic series!!
Although this is the eighth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Clear your schedules as you won't be able to do anything else the second you turn the pages on this explosive action packed psychological thriller that will tick absolutely every box!!
I loved meeting all the characters again. They have definitely become like friends to me over these books and it's always sad to say goodbye to them. The characters are all very strong and the fact that Morgan and Amy are such strong females was definitely a bonus with me being female myself. I love Amy and Morgan and her relationship with Ben and would love to read more about her as always. I'd love to read more about Ben, Morgan and a few others actually. I am looking forward to seeing the relationship between Ben and Morgan progress and I liked the way they had quite similar histories. I also enjoyed the progression of friendship between Morgan and Cain who I really liked and enjoyed getting to know more in this book. I absolutely adore Cain who is such a sweet and kind hearted, not to mention sexy part of the team!! He has the perfect qualities of a police officer. I have always had fun watching the sarcasm and snipes between Amy, Morgan and previously with the late Detective Des. Although Cain will not replace him It I loved that Cain will be taking his place in the team. I've always liked Cain and am landed that we will get to see more of him. However, with Morgan's reputation is he going to be safe? Let's hope so!! After Marc made a stupid mistake in the previous book it was intriguing to see how he dealt with Morgan and the team in this one and I'm pleased that he admitted to messing up but he has a long way to go before he will gain my trust again. I absolutely LOVE Amy with her sarcastic say it as it is, larger than life personality and I loved meeting her again. I am looking forward to seeing her work along with Cain more. Declan the pathologist is another big character for me and I really love his funny yet caring and compassionate personality and always look forward to seeing him. I love him more and more with each epic, suspense filled addictive page turning novel in this series!! As always, I hate saying Goodbye to this amazing team whenever I come to the end of any of Helen's fantastic books and here's to hoping the next one will be out very soon!! Hint hint Helen 😉!!
Well done on yet another massive success Helen and here is to the next success in an amazing series 🥂 🎈 💐. This is EXACTLY why your one of my favourite authors and this is one of my top 3 series'!!! 😍
Overall another action packed, page turning, gripping, suspense filled edge of your seat must read by the legend that is Helen Phifer!!
Genres covered in this novel include Romance Novel, Thriller, Mystery, British Detective Stories, Suspense, Serial Killer's, Women's Detective Fiction, English Crime, Psychological Thriller, Hardboiled, Noir Fiction, Women Sleuths, Psychological Fiction, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni, Rachel Caine, Carol Wyer, CL Taylor, Tess Gerritson, Lisa Regan, Rachel Abbot and anyone looking for an epic read.
284 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) and £7.99 in paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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This is such an outstanding series. The characters are so well written and the mysteries always stump me. I am so glad I found this author. She is so talented.
With their last traumatic case still fresh in their minds, Detective Morgan Brookes and her small team could do with some down time, unfortunately that's not what they get. Called to a house fire they find a family of three dead in such a way it could only be murder. The neighbours are all shocked by what's happened, but with secrets emerging could the killer be closer to home than the team had first thought?
Once again this brilliant series continues to tick all the boxes. Morgan Brookes is a great central protagonist along with boss Ben Matthews, and the continuity between current and previous storylines as always is excellently dealt with. After the traumas in book seven the follow-ups for the main and secondary protagonists was very well done and added to the realism. There were a couple of loose ends not tied neatly but I wouldn't be at all surprised if they weren't mentioned next time.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is one of my favourite series and this installment doesn't disappoint. Highly recommended.
Their Burning Graves is book 8 in the DC Morgan Brookes series by Helen Phifer. This series just gets even better if that's possible! Morgan who is meant to be on the Barrow team, has just arrived at Detective Sergeant Ben Matthews home when a call comes in for Ben; there's a fire at Hest Bank Road and a family is dead, still at their dining table.
I was wrongfooted again in this one, blindsided by the clever twists. Helen Phifer's superb and explosive writing continues to wow me and it will be interesting to see what's in store for DC Brookes in the next instalment.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Detective Morgan Brookes is back, transferred out of Rydel Falls and with the team still reeling from the shocking events in Silent Angel. It's fair to say she and everyone around her is struggling.
But when a call comes in to inform Morgans old boss and boyfriend Detective Sergeant Ben Matthews of a house fire. Morgan jumps at the chance to help out.
Only it turns out there is more to the case than a simple house fire. As three bodies have been found inside, each with a missing limb. One of them a friend of Bens. And the case is made all the more shocking when the limbs are finally discovered.
But who would want to kill this picture perfect family?
That is what Morgan, Ben and the team need to find out and quick. But with little evidence to go on how are they going to find a killer who seems hell bent on vengeance.
And with plenty of twists and a killer I didn't expect. This was a very enjoyable read. That was only really spoilt by the ending. Which semed a little abrupt. But I do love Morgan and can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
I would happily recommend Their Burning Graves to crime fiction fans everywhere.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Though this makes more sense as part of the series, it works perfectly well as a stand-alone read. A family are found in a house fire. They couldn’t escape as they were already dead. Each of them had their right hand removed. This is the bizarre scene that meets the police when they’re called to the scene. Clearly someone is doling out their own version of justice, but can they work out who? The book follows Morgan and the team as they investigate. We gain insight into each of their lives, and slowly come to realise the links between the victims and those around them. While I could see certain links, the whole picture didn’t slot into place until later. Timing was everything here! Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this before publication.
I've enjoyed the series so far I just found this one a bit lacking with the co conclusion. It sort of felt rushed and obvious towards the end and it always amazes me how when it's going down Morgan can never get hold of anyone but yet they always magically appear at the right moment. Otherwise a nice gruesome murder mystery.
When Morgan accompanies Matthews to a house fire and finds herself on the case and back working with her team. However this could be one of the worse cases she's worked in a while. Sally and her family are at their dining room table bags over their heads and missing their hands. Convinced there's more than meets the eye and even more weary that there's biblical references to the crime set up, Morgan finds herself face to face with local creepy vicar Theo again . She can't decide if he is guilty if these murders or if he's just really unsettling. With a hook that will have you up all night wanting to find out euo the killer is and what their motive was!!
Review for 'Their Burning Graves' by Helen Phifer.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Helen Phifer, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 19th December 2022.
This is the tenth book I have read by this author. It is also the eighth book in the 'Detective Morgan Brookes' series but can be read as a standalone. I have also read 'Silent Angel' (book 7 in this series), 'Sleeping Dolls' (book 6 in this series) 'Find The Girl' (book 5 in series), 'First Girl To Die' (book 4 in this series), 'The Hiding Place' (book 3 in this series) , 'The Girls In The Lake' (book 2 in the 'Beth Adams series),' The Killer's Girl' (book 2 in this series) and 'One Left Alive' (the first book in this series) and 'LakeView House' (standalone) and would recommend them all.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A completely addictive and gripping crime thriller! Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni and Rachel Caine.' I am a huge fan of all three of this authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Helen and if this is half as good as 'Silent Angel' (book 7 in this series), 'Sleeping Dolls' (book 6 in this series) 'Find The Girl' (book 5 in series), 'First Girl To Die' (book 4 in this series), 'The Hiding Place' (book 3 in this series) , 'The Girls In The Lake' (book 2 in the 'Beth Adams series),' The Killer's Girl' (book 2 in this series) and 'One Left Alive' (the first book in this series) and 'LakeView House' (standalone) it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 51 chapters. The chapters medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Cumbria, UK 🇬🇧 The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually been on holidays to Cumbria so it will help me picture everything.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Detective Constable Morgan Brookes and Detective Sergeant Ben Matthews The benefits of third person perspective with multiple perspectives are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
Wow!!! Just Wow!!! I did not see that one coming!!! Yet another absolutely unputdownable page turning book from the extremely talented Helen Phifer!!!
This book is fantastically written and such an addictive and compelling read. Excellent descriptions making it so easy to imagine what's going on. The book cover and synopsis suit the storyline perfectly.
The storyline is an absolute roller-coaster ride filled with suspense, crime, drama, red herrings and is an absolutely explosive psychological thriller that kept me up until late at night. I just could not put it down!!! I completely blame Helen for the bags under my eyes!! This is just one of those series that I have no idea how as each of them have been explosively addictive but Helen manages to make each one better and better!!! This is such a high accomplishment and it is exactly why I cannot wait for each of these fantastic books to be released. Whether part of this fantastic series or standalone Helen completely sucks her readers in to the depths of each storyline and manages to completely captivate them until the very last page!! . Helen completely emerges the reader into the storyline and there is just no escaping so be warned!! Do not start this if you have plans for the day 😂 It gets harder and harder to surprise me when it comes to crime books after reading so many yet Helen manages to do it absolutely every single time!!! Helen please let me into your secret as I have no idea how you do it but each book gets better and better!! The storyline itself was very realistic and Helen's police experience shines through when your reading. I loved the Lisa Rigan and Josie Quinn reference especially as I've not long finished 'The Innocent Wife', book 16 in the series, myself. To see my review of that page turner check out my blog. I couldn't wait to get stuck in to this book after the absolute bombshells Helen left at the end of 'Silent Angels'. On one hand I couldn't wait and yet on the other I was practically peeping through my fingers after Marc split the team up after they had already suffered the huge blow with losing Detective Des. Thankfully, the team manages to get back together after Morgan is in the right (or wrong?) place at the right (Or wrong?) time. This is another storyline that tugs on the heartstrings as we say farewell to Des at his funeral and see how the team coped with saying goodbye to Des while also investigating a murder of a family many of the team knew the mum of. This book really does go to show how one small mistake can have such a huge ripple effect and can ruin so many lives and affect others. It is always a strange experience reading one of Helen's books as her storyline and writing skills make you want to keep flipping the pages until the end but then when you get there your absolutely gutted as you have to wait for the next book in this absolutely fantastic series that ticks each and every box!!
Congratulations Helen on yet another absolutely addictive, unputdownable explosive success!! Your books keep getting better and better which is incredible as I have loved each and every one of them. As always, looking forward to the next installment in this epic series!!
Although this is the eighth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Clear your schedules as you won't be able to do anything else the second you turn the pages on this explosive action packed psychological thriller that will tick absolutely every box!!
I loved meeting all the characters again. They have definitely become like friends to me over these books and it's always sad to say goodbye to them. The characters are all very strong and the fact that Morgan and Amy are such strong females was definitely a bonus with me being female myself. I love Amy and Morgan and her relationship with Ben and would love to read more about her as always. I'd love to read more about Ben, Morgan and a few others actually. I am looking forward to seeing the relationship between Ben and Morgan progress and I liked the way they had quite similar histories. I also enjoyed the progression of friendship between Morgan and Cain who I really liked and enjoyed getting to know more in this book. I absolutely adore Cain who is such a sweet and kind hearted, not to mention sexy part of the team!! He has the perfect qualities of a police officer. I have always had fun watching the sarcasm and snipes between Amy, Morgan and previously with the late Detective Des. Although Cain will not replace him It I loved that Cain will be taking his place in the team. I've always liked Cain and am landed that we will get to see more of him. However, with Morgan's reputation is he going to be safe? Let's hope so!! After Marc made a stupid mistake in the previous book it was intriguing to see how he dealt with Morgan and the team in this one and I'm pleased that he admitted to messing up but he has a long way to go before he will gain my trust again. I absolutely LOVE Amy with her sarcastic say it as it is, larger than life personality and I loved meeting her again. I am looking forward to seeing her work along with Cain more. Declan the pathologist is another big character for me and I really love his funny yet caring and compassionate personality and always look forward to seeing him. I love him more and more with each epic, suspense filled addictive page turning novel in this series!! As always, I hate saying Goodbye to this amazing team whenever I come to the end of any of Helen's fantastic books and here's to hoping the next one will be out very soon!! Hint hint Helen 😉!!
Well done on yet another massive success Helen and here is to the next success in an amazing series 🥂 🎈 💐. This is EXACTLY why your one of my favourite authors and this is one of my top 3 series'!!! 😍
Overall another action packed, page turning, gripping, suspense filled edge of your seat must read by the legend that is Helen Phifer!!
Genres covered in this novel include Romance Novel, Thriller, Mystery, British Detective Stories, Suspense, Serial Killer's, Women's Detective Fiction, English Crime, Psychological Thriller, Hardboiled, Noir Fiction, Women Sleuths, Psychological Fiction, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni, Rachel Caine, Carol Wyer, CL Taylor, Tess Gerritson, Lisa Regan, Rachel Abbot and anyone looking for an epic read.
284 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) and £7.99 in paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.As a big fan of murder mysteries, I was stoked to receive a copy of Their Burning Graves. Murder and nail biting suspense awaits you in this installment of the Detective Morgan Brookes series. Read on and learn the reason this book will appeal to fans of murder mysteries.
Their Burning Graves by Helen Phifer is the 8th book in the Detective Morgan Brookes series and my first time reading the author's work. Now while the case within this installment is independent, the information contained within points to events from the previous books. Based on this it would one can surmise that reading the series in order will provide a better understanding of these events.
The prologue sets the tone for the remainder of the story. As one progresses through the story the connection between the events of the prologue and the current murder mystery became clear. However, figuring out the identity of the person behind the murders was not an easy task. The situation grew tense when another woman landed on the killer's radar. Revenge drove the killer. Why is this woman being targeted and what's her connection to the previous victims? These were the questions on my mind as I progressed through the story.
Morgan impressed me with her investigating skills and her willingness to work with her team. She possesses an uncanny ability for solving crimes. Her tenacity, sense of right and wrong and the need to find justice for the victim drove her. So even without the physical evidence she relied heavily on her instincts along with the variety of clues which may pop up at any given time. Despite this being my first time interacting with Morgan, she struck me as a capable, strong and intelligent person.
In Their Burning Graves Helen Phifer delivered a well-written story which proved difficult to put down. The number of likely suspects kept me guessing. The reveals and twists surprised me, all signs of a well written mystery. My need to know who as I already knew the why kept me thoroughly invested in the story. Although the case wrapped up, some new information came to light, but no further exploration occurred. This leaves the reader in a speculative mode. However, this did not take away from the story's enjoyment.
This case is intense and so sad. We really get thrown into the deep end and the team is dealing with grief and trying to solve a case. I love that we get a new member of the team. But I am still scratching my head with Mark the new boss. Last book he was a big ass this book is like a full turnaround. I just do not get it.
it’s that book in every series where it starts to get a lot better. i have so much hope for the next book because not even i could’ve guessed the ending and i had some good ideas too. loved this book!!
The first few pages that I read I literally sucked in my breath. It’s a very graphic horrific scene. I plowed ahead, knowing this new case would be a doozy for Morgan and the gang. Vengeance, sick in the head and unhappiness are major themes. The gang is also mourning the loss of Des, but Phifer insides some light hearted moments. The author is also giving some of the other characters more attention like Caine. Father Theo still gives me the creeps and I’m uncertain why Amy is so prickly. It’s another busy case for these crime busters! Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
Another thrilling book in the Morgan Brookes series (I do love these).The death of a family comes to the team while they are still reeling from Des's death but the team know they have a job to do. Morgan is shocked when she and Ben arrive at the crime scene.I have to say Helen Phifer writes a brilliant book that has you gripped from start to finish.Excellent 5*
Another great crime thriller in this brilliant series. Morgan is staying at Bens when a call comes in about a house fire. When they get there they find three people who have been murdered in another room from the fire. Morgan and Ben are shocked at the scene before them and are determined to find the killer. As Morgan gets deeper into the investigation it’s clear one if the victims, Sally, was feeling scared before her death and soon there’s another woman that feels like she is being watched. Morgan needs to find the connection between the two women and when she does it’s a race against time to stop the killer from striking again. Her colleagues joke that Morgan seems to attract danger, and that certainly seems to be true. This is a gripping crime thriller with some nail biting final chapters. A great book in a brilliant crime series. Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this awesome book
morgan is back and on the case.....
at the scene she is called to where a fire is raging the family are found sitting around the kitchen table but unable to move...they have been murdered in the most gruesome way
its such a close family road where normally no trouble is found but it suddenly becomes a powder keg of emotions and with more kicking off morgan is afraid that someone else is going to be targeted by a killer out for revenge...