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Slater & Norman Mystery #13
Death by Jogging
Meet ex-detectives Slater and Norman, an unlikely crime-solving duo. They might seem like they have nothing in common, except a love of doughnuts and banter. But they never give up on a case, no matter how tough things get . . .
Please note, this book was previously published as Deceptive Appearances.
The race is on to bring Martha Dennis home alive.
Her neighbours all know her as a fitness fanatic. She’d head out jogging most mornings with a mystery man, a striking sight in her fiery red workout gear. But she hasn’t been seen in over a year.
Her brother, shifty Adrian Davies, turns up at Slater & Norman Investigations, clutching a faded old photo of Martha.
He offers them a generous fee to track her down, but can’t — or won’t — tell them a thing about Martha’s life. And there are more holes in his story than your average colander.
When a Jane Doe turns up dead in a lay-by, clad in a bright red tracksuit, Slater and Norm are ready to put two and two together . . . until shocking new evidence proves them wrong.
Can they catch up to the tricksy killer — before this case becomes a race for life itself?
Please note, this book was previously published as Deceptive Appearances.
The race is on to bring Martha Dennis home alive.
Her neighbours all know her as a fitness fanatic. She’d head out jogging most mornings with a mystery man, a striking sight in her fiery red workout gear. But she hasn’t been seen in over a year.
Her brother, shifty Adrian Davies, turns up at Slater & Norman Investigations, clutching a faded old photo of Martha.
He offers them a generous fee to track her down, but can’t — or won’t — tell them a thing about Martha’s life. And there are more holes in his story than your average colander.
When a Jane Doe turns up dead in a lay-by, clad in a bright red tracksuit, Slater and Norm are ready to put two and two together . . . until shocking new evidence proves them wrong.
Can they catch up to the tricksy killer — before this case becomes a race for life itself?
- GenresMystery
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2018
817 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
P.F. Ford
54 books236 followersHaving spent most of his life trying to be what everyone else wanted him to be, P.F. (Peter) Ford was a late starter when it came to writing. He had tried writing a novel many years ago (before the advent of self-publishing), only to be turned down by every publisher he approached. It was very much a case of being told by those around him, ‘now you know you can’t write, so get back to work!’
Even at an early age, Peter felt very much like the proverbial square peg being forced into a round hole. This resulted in the creation of a Grammar School drop-out who then drifted through a succession of unfulfilling jobs, finally ending up in a totally unsuitable role which eventually sapped his energy and self-confidence. There followed a brief foray into self-employment (not a good idea for someone lacking in self-confidence!) which ended in total financial melt-down, a mountain of debt, and a lapse into depression.
Faced with the fact that he’d never be happy as he was, Peter finally decided he had no intention of continuing that way, and things just had to change. This was achieved by closing the door on his old life and starting over. Fast forward a few years and you find a man transformed, his newly found positive attitude enabling him to find new partner (now wife), Mary, who shares his belief that dreamers should be encouraged and not denied.
He first wrote, (under the name Peter Ford), and self-published , several short books about the life changing benefits of positive thinking. Now, completely free of the hindrance of worrying about what other people think, he’s blissfully happy writing the D.S. Dave Slater mystery novels and what he calls the ‘digital fiction marmite’ (people tend to love it or hate it!) that is the Alfie Bowman Novella series.
Peter and Mary recently completed a shared dream when they married and moved to a beautiful region of Wales where they spend much of their spare time walking their three dogs, and relaxing and having fun with friends. They believe they are living proof that you should never give up on your dreams, because it’s never too late!
Even at an early age, Peter felt very much like the proverbial square peg being forced into a round hole. This resulted in the creation of a Grammar School drop-out who then drifted through a succession of unfulfilling jobs, finally ending up in a totally unsuitable role which eventually sapped his energy and self-confidence. There followed a brief foray into self-employment (not a good idea for someone lacking in self-confidence!) which ended in total financial melt-down, a mountain of debt, and a lapse into depression.
Faced with the fact that he’d never be happy as he was, Peter finally decided he had no intention of continuing that way, and things just had to change. This was achieved by closing the door on his old life and starting over. Fast forward a few years and you find a man transformed, his newly found positive attitude enabling him to find new partner (now wife), Mary, who shares his belief that dreamers should be encouraged and not denied.
He first wrote, (under the name Peter Ford), and self-published , several short books about the life changing benefits of positive thinking. Now, completely free of the hindrance of worrying about what other people think, he’s blissfully happy writing the D.S. Dave Slater mystery novels and what he calls the ‘digital fiction marmite’ (people tend to love it or hate it!) that is the Alfie Bowman Novella series.
Peter and Mary recently completed a shared dream when they married and moved to a beautiful region of Wales where they spend much of their spare time walking their three dogs, and relaxing and having fun with friends. They believe they are living proof that you should never give up on your dreams, because it’s never too late!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 17, 2018
Thoroughly engaging!
As usual, another great read. Love Slater and Norman characters. This one, with a topical subject, took a little while to get into but the writer likes to tease the reader a bit. Book was too short so I await the next one. Hope Slater gets his lady...
As usual, another great read. Love Slater and Norman characters. This one, with a topical subject, took a little while to get into but the writer likes to tease the reader a bit. Book was too short so I await the next one. Hope Slater gets his lady...
December 14, 2018
Things aren't always what they seem
When a new client comes to see Dave and Norman, they were very happy to have a paying customer, even if they felt he wasn't telling them everything, but if a young woman was still alive after disappearing several months ago, they wanted to find her.
Things go every way but right, but each dead end makes them more determined and mouse convinced that they were on to something. They were threatened by a lawyer and a big bodyguard type guy.
Lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing and not wanting to put the book down.
I love this series and, if you like a mystery,you will too
When a new client comes to see Dave and Norman, they were very happy to have a paying customer, even if they felt he wasn't telling them everything, but if a young woman was still alive after disappearing several months ago, they wanted to find her.
Things go every way but right, but each dead end makes them more determined and mouse convinced that they were on to something. They were threatened by a lawyer and a big bodyguard type guy.
Lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing and not wanting to put the book down.
I love this series and, if you like a mystery,you will too
August 28, 2024
Another goodie from PF Ford
This time now private detectives Slater and Norman have a new case, which, on the face of it, is to find a missing young woman. As usual, this rapidly evolving into a whole lot more. The case gets in teasingly complex, and they just don't know who is telling them the truth. The obstacles they have overcome include two restraining orders, and there's also a car chase.
Over the series, there have been lots of changes and developments in the two leading players, and more are evident this time, with each of them showing hidden sides to their characters and hidden skills..
This time now private detectives Slater and Norman have a new case, which, on the face of it, is to find a missing young woman. As usual, this rapidly evolving into a whole lot more. The case gets in teasingly complex, and they just don't know who is telling them the truth. The obstacles they have overcome include two restraining orders, and there's also a car chase.
Over the series, there have been lots of changes and developments in the two leading players, and more are evident this time, with each of them showing hidden sides to their characters and hidden skills..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2019
Oh joy, another enjoyable read
I am unashamedly a fan of PF Ford's books and this one was no exception. These are easy reading books with, in this version, a lot of humour. The scene when Slater and Norman were trying to escape from the airfield brought more than a smile. It was like the classic scene from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid deciding who was going to jump first. Besides that, the plot of the book was well constructed, as far as I am concerned, the characters were real. As said, a joy to read. Well done again Peter. I await in anticipation for the next one.
I am unashamedly a fan of PF Ford's books and this one was no exception. These are easy reading books with, in this version, a lot of humour. The scene when Slater and Norman were trying to escape from the airfield brought more than a smile. It was like the classic scene from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid deciding who was going to jump first. Besides that, the plot of the book was well constructed, as far as I am concerned, the characters were real. As said, a joy to read. Well done again Peter. I await in anticipation for the next one.
January 18, 2023
I like Stella so much!!! And I’m not sure what’s going on with Dave and Norm. They seem to have lost it. I got confused between Martha, Betty and Alex. I had to work my way through that. Sometimes the storyline is so twisted you lose focus of it. I’m still not sure I understand the way the basement worked. Who in their right mind would stay there? It’s wonderful to see the two of them moving forward with their detective agency, I love that! I also enjoy learning about the depths of Dave; who he is, and how he ticks. I love the interaction between Dave and Norm, their bickering is a hoot!!
June 13, 2025
Probably a 3.5*. I enjoy these but there are better murder mysteries out there. Slater and Norman are still trying to get their private investigation business slow going. So, when a dodgy character asks them to look for a missing woman and hands them lots of cash, they go with it. It is a real struggle as the man hasn’t given them much to go on and every small lead seems to end in nothing but confusion and questions. The two detectives take it in turns to follow the wrong leads and make assumptions - as usual! And is there a hint of romance for Slater? One more in the series to go.
December 12, 2018
Another Great Slater and Norman adventure
Mr. Ford does not disappoint in his newest book. A baffling case, interesting and puzzling lines of investigation, and elusive characters make for a good story. Also,has continue to get to know more about Norman and Slater as people. This is a good series.
Mr. Ford does not disappoint in his newest book. A baffling case, interesting and puzzling lines of investigation, and elusive characters make for a good story. Also,has continue to get to know more about Norman and Slater as people. This is a good series.
April 26, 2019
Review
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It is definitely worth spending serious time sitting in the garden with. This book, in fact the whole series is a mix of British Police procedure, cozy and crime mysterious. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a really good mystery.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It is definitely worth spending serious time sitting in the garden with. This book, in fact the whole series is a mix of British Police procedure, cozy and crime mysterious. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a really good mystery.
April 15, 2022
Not my favorite, bit still a decent read!
I think it was all the bickering, that's not how these two have ever worked. So it made it drawn out a little much for my taste. But, so many other people thought it was totally amazing, so it probably me. For the most part, it was fast paced, well written, and it won't stop me from continuing to read Mr Ford's books.
I think it was all the bickering, that's not how these two have ever worked. So it made it drawn out a little much for my taste. But, so many other people thought it was totally amazing, so it probably me. For the most part, it was fast paced, well written, and it won't stop me from continuing to read Mr Ford's books.
January 1, 2023
I really enjoy these mysteries and the 2 detectives. But the poor attitude and grumpiness of Slater is unnecessary and detracts from the story.
I don't expect anything to change as this is book #13 and #14 has already been written.
But a few questions - what is Jane doing now?
Overall a good story.
I don't expect anything to change as this is book #13 and #14 has already been written.
But a few questions - what is Jane doing now?
Overall a good story.
June 7, 2023
When a young woman's body is discovered in a layby with no means to identify her and a young man shows up looking for his sister at Slater & Norman's detective agency, they have no choice but to put two and two together and come up with five. The young man is not who he says he is and the dead young woman is a possible victim of mistaken identity. A great read.
November 4, 2024
Jogging
It was a incredible novel. I enjoy both Slater and Norm. They have a great relationship and work well together. I like the fact that Norm and Jane have a life together and hopefully Slater won't be alone any more. I love the changes they both take and crazy way they solve a case. It's good reading. Thanks
It was a incredible novel. I enjoy both Slater and Norm. They have a great relationship and work well together. I like the fact that Norm and Jane have a life together and hopefully Slater won't be alone any more. I love the changes they both take and crazy way they solve a case. It's good reading. Thanks
January 11, 2025
Enjoyable book. Slater and Norman are still making a go at their detective agency . They take on the job of looking for a missing woman. They rapidly find out nothing is what it seems in this adventure. Slater finds a new girl friend. Norman shows off his evasive driving skills and Jane Jolly makes it quite clear she needs her sleep.
December 10, 2018
Excitement from go to whoa.
A really clever storyline that grips from the get go. Cleverly constructed, great repartee between the two main characters and a genesis of love for the romantics.
A really clever storyline that grips from the get go. Cleverly constructed, great repartee between the two main characters and a genesis of love for the romantics.
December 18, 2018
I have eagerly awaited each book to enjoy the banter and interesting plots. Good job.
January 15, 2019
Fast paced and funny.
This pair of slightly inept detectives blunder their way into success. I thoroughly enjoyed their bickering, varying between arrogance and insecurities.
This pair of slightly inept detectives blunder their way into success. I thoroughly enjoyed their bickering, varying between arrogance and insecurities.
February 17, 2019
3.5 stars. Ok.
March 5, 2019
He's done it again!!
Another great read. I could not put this book down, read it in one sitting. Thank you P. F. Ford!!!!
Another great read. I could not put this book down, read it in one sitting. Thank you P. F. Ford!!!!
April 27, 2019
Love this series!!
Great series, full of humor and mystery, fun read. Norm and Dave have great chemistry, I actually laugh out loud at times. Definitely recommend.
Great series, full of humor and mystery, fun read. Norm and Dave have great chemistry, I actually laugh out loud at times. Definitely recommend.
May 6, 2022
Good story
Made me laugh and was very intriguing. Again, no one is ever what they seem in this series. I'm glad Slater found someone.
Made me laugh and was very intriguing. Again, no one is ever what they seem in this series. I'm glad Slater found someone.
July 8, 2022
one of the better ones
It started off cheesy but once it focused on the investigation and Slater seemed to have a relationship that hopefully will go beyond one book.
It started off cheesy but once it focused on the investigation and Slater seemed to have a relationship that hopefully will go beyond one book.
May 19, 2023
Reviewed as Box Set
March 18, 2024
Good Story
This was a good story, but at times a little bit difficult to follow. I still enjoyed it, but did find myself going back to previous pages to re-read some paragraphs.
This was a good story, but at times a little bit difficult to follow. I still enjoyed it, but did find myself going back to previous pages to re-read some paragraphs.
May 10, 2024
Good read
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The characters are great and the story ment i had to keep thinking, to follow the twists and turns of the plot.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The characters are great and the story ment i had to keep thinking, to follow the twists and turns of the plot.
May 11, 2024
Could not stop reading
I am getting every P.F.Ford book I can find. All his books keep me waiting to find out who done it, I enjoy Ford's style I writhing and never get bored.
I am getting every P.F.Ford book I can find. All his books keep me waiting to find out who done it, I enjoy Ford's style I writhing and never get bored.
September 16, 2024
Fabulous
I have loved the entire series. Norman and Slater are fabulous characters and I'm now grieving the end of the series. P F Ford has me gripped
I have loved the entire series. Norman and Slater are fabulous characters and I'm now grieving the end of the series. P F Ford has me gripped
August 26, 2024
Just finished death by jogging book 13 have really enjoyed reading all thirteen books and hoping book fourteen will be out soon
April 15, 2023
enjoyed book
Have read the previous 12 books and this one does not let you down.
Good read I recommend it just like the others.
Looking forward to reading book 14
Have read the previous 12 books and this one does not let you down.
Good read I recommend it just like the others.
Looking forward to reading book 14
August 26, 2024
Always enjoy the Norman Slater books and am looking forward to book 14. Maybe Dave Slater will have found his true love in D.I. Stella Robbins. I do hope so
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews