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Dr Vanessa Marwood #2
Death's Final Sting
The second instalment in the gripping Dr Vanessa Marwood series, for fans of Angela Marsons, Patricia Cornwell and Cara Hunter.
A dark case unfolds in New York City
Forensic entomologist Dr Vanessa Marwood is settling into her new role in Manhattan when she's faced with a chilling case: an Oscar-winning actress has been found dead, poisoned by a glittering hair clip adorned with a live beetle.
As a second high-profile death emerges - a fashion designer poisoned by an insect-encrusted watch - shockwaves run through New York's elite.
No stranger to the illegal trade of exotic insects and their use in status jewellery, Vanessa teams up with maverick NYPD detective Ru Hoshino to catch this cruel killer before they strike again. The case quickly unravels the city's dark underbelly - revealing a world of untouchable power and criminality.
When their investigation leads to the home of one of her estranged mother's old friends, things take an even darker turn for Vanessa, and she will have to face her past to make sense of the terrifying present.
Fans of Angela Marsons, Patricia Cornwell and Cara Hunter will be absolutely gripped until the final, breathtaking twist.
A dark case unfolds in New York City
Forensic entomologist Dr Vanessa Marwood is settling into her new role in Manhattan when she's faced with a chilling case: an Oscar-winning actress has been found dead, poisoned by a glittering hair clip adorned with a live beetle.
As a second high-profile death emerges - a fashion designer poisoned by an insect-encrusted watch - shockwaves run through New York's elite.
No stranger to the illegal trade of exotic insects and their use in status jewellery, Vanessa teams up with maverick NYPD detective Ru Hoshino to catch this cruel killer before they strike again. The case quickly unravels the city's dark underbelly - revealing a world of untouchable power and criminality.
When their investigation leads to the home of one of her estranged mother's old friends, things take an even darker turn for Vanessa, and she will have to face her past to make sense of the terrifying present.
Fans of Angela Marsons, Patricia Cornwell and Cara Hunter will be absolutely gripped until the final, breathtaking twist.
272 pages, Paperback
First published October 8, 2024
About the author
Tracy Buchanan
23 books602 followersHello! Fab to see you here. I live in Buckinghamshire, UK with my husband, my little girl and our (very naughty) puppy, Bronte.
I travelled extensively while working as a travel magazine editor, and have always been drawn to the sea after spending my childhood holidays on the south coast visiting family – a fascination that inspires my writing.
I now dedicate my time to writing and procrastinating on Facebook.
I'd love to hear from you so please come say hi on one of the following platforms... plus if you join The Reading Snug I've set up with fellow authors, Kelly Rimmer and Kerry Fisher, you might even bag yourself some freebies including an early copy of my latest novel, The Lost Sister!
https://www.facebook.com/TracyBuchana...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheRe...
https://www.instagram.com/TracyBuchan...
https://twitter.com/TracyBuchanan
https://www.tracy-buchanan.com
I travelled extensively while working as a travel magazine editor, and have always been drawn to the sea after spending my childhood holidays on the south coast visiting family – a fascination that inspires my writing.
I now dedicate my time to writing and procrastinating on Facebook.
I'd love to hear from you so please come say hi on one of the following platforms... plus if you join The Reading Snug I've set up with fellow authors, Kelly Rimmer and Kerry Fisher, you might even bag yourself some freebies including an early copy of my latest novel, The Lost Sister!
https://www.facebook.com/TracyBuchana...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheRe...
https://www.instagram.com/TracyBuchan...
https://twitter.com/TracyBuchanan
https://www.tracy-buchanan.com
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 4, 2025
Dr Vanessa Marwood is fast becoming one of my favourite female leads. There's great strength but also vulnerability to her. She's smart, she's funny, but also kind and very much real, she messes up, makes mistakes. Her complicated family history gives her that slight edge, I really like her.
Death's Final Sting is a second book in Marwood series and Tracy Buchanan delivers another great and original story.
Looking forward to reading book three.
Death's Final Sting is a second book in Marwood series and Tracy Buchanan delivers another great and original story.
Looking forward to reading book three.
March 10, 2025
2nd in the Dr Marwood series, Vanessa Marwood is an entomologist, who uses her skills to help solve crimes
Working for a private forensic company in America, Vanessa is part of the team involved in the investigation of the death of a young g American actress.
A fascinating story, introducing some new characters, now that Vanessa has moved abroad. She uses her skills to help solve the case alongside a team of detectives.
I enjoyed this story and the way the characters developed
Working for a private forensic company in America, Vanessa is part of the team involved in the investigation of the death of a young g American actress.
A fascinating story, introducing some new characters, now that Vanessa has moved abroad. She uses her skills to help solve the case alongside a team of detectives.
I enjoyed this story and the way the characters developed
February 8, 2025
Second book in a fantastic crime thriller series, which continues in a way I really didn’t expect. If you can, read book one before this one. Dr Vanessa Marwood has left Britain behind for the sites and sounds of New York. For sites read a state of the art forensic lab and murder scenes. For sounds read the sounds of creeping and hatching bugs for she is a renowned entomologist. The move brings unexpected family issues and a dive into the underworld of crime. She once again finds herself embroiled in the hunt for a killer. A case much more closely connected to Vanessa’s past than she could every expect. This brings questions she didn’t even know she should be asking. Thank you to Embla Books and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
August 23, 2024
What an awesome second book in this series! I couldn’t wait to read it and I wasn’t disappointed! Dr. Vanessa Marwood is now in Manhattan working at the new lab and soon has her first case – and it’s a doozy. Someone is eliminating the young elite of New York City by sending them gifts of live insect jewelry that are more dangerous than they appear. She works closely with Detective Ru Hosino (a great new character) who has a unique way of approaching investigations. They’re desperate to nail down the killer and find all potential victims who have already received their ‘gifts’ before it’s too late. But it won’t be easy – these are premeditated and highly intricate murders committed by someone determined not to be caught.
As with the previous book in this series, I had to keep stopping as I read to research the different insects referenced in the story. And since they feature in jewelry pieces, each one was beautiful and fascinating. The idea of live insects being used that way is heartbreaking but not surprising. People with too much money and a lack of ethics can do horrible things. Sure, it’s a historic practice, but that’s where it should be left – in the past.
I love Ru’s character and hope we see him again – I have a feeling he wouldn’t mind spending more time with Vanessa! They work well together, their quirks complement each other rather than causing conflict and I don’t think there’s any crime the two of them wouldn’t be able to solve.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment in this extraordinary series!
As with the previous book in this series, I had to keep stopping as I read to research the different insects referenced in the story. And since they feature in jewelry pieces, each one was beautiful and fascinating. The idea of live insects being used that way is heartbreaking but not surprising. People with too much money and a lack of ethics can do horrible things. Sure, it’s a historic practice, but that’s where it should be left – in the past.
I love Ru’s character and hope we see him again – I have a feeling he wouldn’t mind spending more time with Vanessa! They work well together, their quirks complement each other rather than causing conflict and I don’t think there’s any crime the two of them wouldn’t be able to solve.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment in this extraordinary series!
September 9, 2024
This is No 2 of the Dr Vanessa Marwood series and it's an excellent follow up to her first book. Thank you NetGalley, publishers Embla Books, and the author Tracy Buchanan for the eARC copy in return for my honest review.
Dr. Marwood is on a career trajectory to make her the world's foremost entomologist, a bug expert for you and I. Her first book was set in England, this second book finds her in New York working for a private forensics lab. She's soon called out to her first case - an award winning actress has been found dead with an adorned live beetle hair clip. Her death appears to be an overdose but something's not quite right. The police bring Detective Ru Hoshino back from leave to work the case. He's an expert at solving unusual cases. Together, they discover the victim was killed by a poision syringe attached to the hair clip. Soon other bright lights from New York's creative scene are found dead, each wearing a piece of insect jewellery. All the insects are rare, unusual and on the endangered list. The finally crafted pieces of jewellery all contain the poison used to murder the victim.
It's an excellent mystery delving into insects, the illegal trade of rare species, and the cult of celebrity, I look forward to reading further books. 4 out of 5 stars for me.
Dr. Marwood is on a career trajectory to make her the world's foremost entomologist, a bug expert for you and I. Her first book was set in England, this second book finds her in New York working for a private forensics lab. She's soon called out to her first case - an award winning actress has been found dead with an adorned live beetle hair clip. Her death appears to be an overdose but something's not quite right. The police bring Detective Ru Hoshino back from leave to work the case. He's an expert at solving unusual cases. Together, they discover the victim was killed by a poision syringe attached to the hair clip. Soon other bright lights from New York's creative scene are found dead, each wearing a piece of insect jewellery. All the insects are rare, unusual and on the endangered list. The finally crafted pieces of jewellery all contain the poison used to murder the victim.
It's an excellent mystery delving into insects, the illegal trade of rare species, and the cult of celebrity, I look forward to reading further books. 4 out of 5 stars for me.
October 15, 2024
Death's Final Sting is the second book in the Dr. Vanessa Marwood Series.
Picking up six months after her brother is arrested for his serial murders in the UK, Vanessa has finally moved to New York to work as a forensic entomologist. Her life is finally getting back to normal when an Oscar winning actress is found dead wearing a hair clip containing a live beetle. When more people in the actresses social circle start dying, Vanessa fears another serial killer is on the loose. To make matters worse, she uncovers something that implicates her estranged mother may be involved.
As a second installment in the series, this story kept up the momentum of the first book. The plot was engaging from the start and kept me wanting to read on. I liked that we got more backstory on her mother and why she left her family. It was a perfect set up for a third installment, which Tracy Buchanan has confirmed is in the works. If you enjoyed the first book, I think you will enjoy the sequel just as much.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Picking up six months after her brother is arrested for his serial murders in the UK, Vanessa has finally moved to New York to work as a forensic entomologist. Her life is finally getting back to normal when an Oscar winning actress is found dead wearing a hair clip containing a live beetle. When more people in the actresses social circle start dying, Vanessa fears another serial killer is on the loose. To make matters worse, she uncovers something that implicates her estranged mother may be involved.
As a second installment in the series, this story kept up the momentum of the first book. The plot was engaging from the start and kept me wanting to read on. I liked that we got more backstory on her mother and why she left her family. It was a perfect set up for a third installment, which Tracy Buchanan has confirmed is in the works. If you enjoyed the first book, I think you will enjoy the sequel just as much.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
October 2, 2024
After loving the first book, I was excited to get straight into this second book, and I loved it just as much!
With another gripping case centred around even more mysterious murders, it's a fascinating story. And this time, we have some new interesting characters to get to know, which made this second book even more exciting!
The inclusion of bugs/insects in the murders is such an interesting concept. It's not too scary for those who don't like creepy crawlies, but also teaches you a lot about their lifespans and mating habits, which are incorporated in a really original way.
With more links to Vanessa's past, as well, her character is developed brilliantly, as we really get to know her and, therefore, care.
This series is definitely worth reading if you like interesting crime thrillers with a twist and an engaging female lead.
With another gripping case centred around even more mysterious murders, it's a fascinating story. And this time, we have some new interesting characters to get to know, which made this second book even more exciting!
The inclusion of bugs/insects in the murders is such an interesting concept. It's not too scary for those who don't like creepy crawlies, but also teaches you a lot about their lifespans and mating habits, which are incorporated in a really original way.
With more links to Vanessa's past, as well, her character is developed brilliantly, as we really get to know her and, therefore, care.
This series is definitely worth reading if you like interesting crime thrillers with a twist and an engaging female lead.
February 26, 2025
Having read book 1 in this series, I was very keen to start this, book 2. Dr Vanessa Marwood is an interesting, independent and strong character. Her appearance is clearly defined, matching itself to her individuality.
This case sees Vanessa finally settled in her job in NYC, proving her worth to the police investigation team again and again, as ‘the bug lady’ or renowned forensic entomologist. The reader finds more about how Ness ends up at this place in her life, with the dots beginning to join together.
The pace is fast, the characterisation skilful, well portrayed and the settings easy to visualise from the descriptions.
I find the cases in this series extraordinarily interesting, having never followed investigations from this angle previously. I was engrossed in the reading, trying to fathom the perpetrators along with the detectives, looking to unravel and the twists and turns. Now looking forward to Book 3, out on 18th March.
This case sees Vanessa finally settled in her job in NYC, proving her worth to the police investigation team again and again, as ‘the bug lady’ or renowned forensic entomologist. The reader finds more about how Ness ends up at this place in her life, with the dots beginning to join together.
The pace is fast, the characterisation skilful, well portrayed and the settings easy to visualise from the descriptions.
I find the cases in this series extraordinarily interesting, having never followed investigations from this angle previously. I was engrossed in the reading, trying to fathom the perpetrators along with the detectives, looking to unravel and the twists and turns. Now looking forward to Book 3, out on 18th March.
September 16, 2024
Forensic entomologist Dr Vanessa Marwood has moved from the UK to New York City to work for NovaScope Forensics. Her new boss is Dr Bronagh Thompson and Vanessa has become friends with her and her family. Vanessa in her role as an entomologist, is brought to a crime scene of an actress called Cordelia Montgomery to help the NYPD to identify a rare insect. Shortly afterwards, a second high profile victim is discovered. Detective Ru Hoshino asks Vanessa for help with the investigations. How are the victims connected? Why is it happening? Eventually, Vanessa will have to deal with things from her past! All of this and more in a page turning, terrifying, suspenseful book, which will take you on a dramatic ride to the devilishly surprising conclusion.
March 31, 2025
As fascinating as the first book in the series.
This is amazing...I loved the details about the insects and how they were used in jewellery, it wasn't something I'd thought of before nor knew about so this was compelling to read about. I wasn't surprised that vanessas mother of all people were involved nor that this wouldn't be the end of it but felicity and the actresses mother being the one who killed her daughter and everyone else because she thought history would repeat itself was a unique take on what could have been a predictable story.
This is amazing...I loved the details about the insects and how they were used in jewellery, it wasn't something I'd thought of before nor knew about so this was compelling to read about. I wasn't surprised that vanessas mother of all people were involved nor that this wouldn't be the end of it but felicity and the actresses mother being the one who killed her daughter and everyone else because she thought history would repeat itself was a unique take on what could have been a predictable story.
August 25, 2024
As with Dr Vanessa Marwood book 1, this is a fantastic murder mystery. I love how Buchanan is writing quite traditional-esque mysteries, featuring multiple murders and a countdown to stop the killer, but with the entirely unique element of entomology running throughout. Marwood is also unique, a one of a kind sleuth who is both vulnerably endearing and incredibly tough. I cannot wait for book 3!
PS - Someone needs to make a Netflix mini-series out of these books!!!
PS - Someone needs to make a Netflix mini-series out of these books!!!
October 24, 2024
Loved it. The second Dr Marwood thriller as she moves to America and straight down to business as a famous actress is murdered and beatles clipped to her hair, soon more murders are committed. A fast paced thriller with well thought out characters, can't wait for book Three. Tracy Buchanan is becoming a must read author. Thanks to Embla books and Netgalley for this review ARC
December 13, 2024
Another great story in this series. There's lots of new characters now. Dr. Marwood is in New York, and they were interesting and on the whole likeable. Still enjoying the insect aspect, although I do wonder how many murders you can come up with that involve insects, but I'll be reading to find out
January 2, 2025
Another good read in this series which I am reading out of order[I do not think it makes much difference]
Another kobo read.
In passing...opening of chapter 17 the Americans DO NOT use the word solicitor ...it is used in the UK and the commonwealth.
Another kobo read.
In passing...opening of chapter 17 the Americans DO NOT use the word solicitor ...it is used in the UK and the commonwealth.
November 12, 2024
Fantastic sequel
Brilliant sequel to the first book in the series. Love Dr Marwoods character and can't wait to find out the next twist in the tale....
Brilliant sequel to the first book in the series. Love Dr Marwoods character and can't wait to find out the next twist in the tale....
November 13, 2024
It looks like I am in the minority, but this is definitely a huge mess. Nothing addictive, plot was unrealistic, writing pretty simple, characters were not likeable. Not my type of book.
January 21, 2025
The author obviously has a vast knowledge of insects that they feel needs to be incorporated into these books. They are a bit far fetched for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
I don’t know what it is about this series I really enjoy it. Vanessa and the team. No one is stupid not even the “bad guys” really well written. So impressed with this author :)
October 9, 2024
264 pages
5 stars
What a great book! The reader gets to meet Dr. Vanessa Marwood. She is a forensic entomologist who investigates crimes where insects play a role.
When a famous and popular actress dies a mysterious death, a hair clasp with a live endangered beetle is found on the body. It is not long before another famous person is killed by the same method.
Detective Ru Hoshino joins the detective team that is investigating the now two deaths. Ru is a unique person. Very observant, very bright, he works in his own way. Most of the other detectives like him and are used to his “quirks.”
Another person dies. The tension in the story increases and the detectives are feeling the pressure from their commander.
This is a very good book. It has an original premise and original characters who are very likable and competent. Having an entomologist as a protagonist is a very original idea and I love it! The writing is top notch and the plotting is both fast paced and excellently crafted. Ms.Tracy Buchanan is an author whom I will watch.
I want to thank NetGalley and Embla Books for forwarding to me a copy of this wonderful book for me to read, review and enjoy. The opinions cited in this review are solely my own.
5 stars
What a great book! The reader gets to meet Dr. Vanessa Marwood. She is a forensic entomologist who investigates crimes where insects play a role.
When a famous and popular actress dies a mysterious death, a hair clasp with a live endangered beetle is found on the body. It is not long before another famous person is killed by the same method.
Detective Ru Hoshino joins the detective team that is investigating the now two deaths. Ru is a unique person. Very observant, very bright, he works in his own way. Most of the other detectives like him and are used to his “quirks.”
Another person dies. The tension in the story increases and the detectives are feeling the pressure from their commander.
This is a very good book. It has an original premise and original characters who are very likable and competent. Having an entomologist as a protagonist is a very original idea and I love it! The writing is top notch and the plotting is both fast paced and excellently crafted. Ms.Tracy Buchanan is an author whom I will watch.
I want to thank NetGalley and Embla Books for forwarding to me a copy of this wonderful book for me to read, review and enjoy. The opinions cited in this review are solely my own.
September 12, 2024
I love this series. Book 2 is even better than the first which I didn't think possible. The entomology side is such an interesting addition to the investigation process. I loved learning little bits about all the various bugs involved. Who knew there was such a big market for illegal insects. The investigation had me hooked and kept me guessing all the way to the end. The secondary investigation into the illegal insect smuggling drew me in and I can't wait to see where that goes.
There are so many great characters in this series and I'm pleased Vanessa's move to New York added some more people to fall in love with. Vanessa is so cool and so lovable and I really like the fact that she's open and honest with her team. Nothing annoys me more than people trying to cover things up. I'm also a big fan of Ru and I look forward to seeing more of him.
ARC via NetGalley
There are so many great characters in this series and I'm pleased Vanessa's move to New York added some more people to fall in love with. Vanessa is so cool and so lovable and I really like the fact that she's open and honest with her team. Nothing annoys me more than people trying to cover things up. I'm also a big fan of Ru and I look forward to seeing more of him.
ARC via NetGalley
September 29, 2024
Tracy Buchanan has done it again. Another brilliant book filled with so much knowledge and twists.
Death’s Final Sting is the 2nd instalment of the Dr Vanessa Marwood thriller series. Similar to its predecessor, Venom In The Blood, this book goes into great detail regarding insects and their beautiful attributes. Mix this with a serial killer and you’ve got an outstanding novel.
BUGS IN JEWELLERY? LIVE ONES AT THAT!! My mind was truly blown. To use and abuse them as a weapon? Horrifyingly brilliant. 8 deaths and an estranged Mother on the scene; Death’s Final Sting is a thriller not to be missed.
Vanessa is such a likeable female protagonist. She is edgy, unique and unbelievably talented. Her work is her life and although we see her dip her toe into the dating pool, we aren’t bombarded with a constant need to meet the male gaze. It’s refreshing and ensures your full attention is on the case and killer.
I actually guessed wrong in regard to the killer…I was close, but just missed it! I really did enjoy trying to figure out who it could possibly be. Tracy has a great ability to keep you guessing throughout.
We are introduced to Detective Ru Hoshino in this second instalment and I felt he was a brilliant attribute to the series. With an air of mystery surrounding his past, you couldn’t help but want to delve deeper into his character. I found him to be enticing and I enjoyed his defiance and resilience.
I’m beyond excited to read the third and final instalment to this creepy crawly infested series.
As always, a HUGE thank you to Embla Books for sending me a pre-release copy of this book in return for my honest opinion and review. Thank you to Tracy Buchanan for trusting me with another book of yours to read !
Death’s Final Sting is the 2nd instalment of the Dr Vanessa Marwood thriller series. Similar to its predecessor, Venom In The Blood, this book goes into great detail regarding insects and their beautiful attributes. Mix this with a serial killer and you’ve got an outstanding novel.
BUGS IN JEWELLERY? LIVE ONES AT THAT!! My mind was truly blown. To use and abuse them as a weapon? Horrifyingly brilliant. 8 deaths and an estranged Mother on the scene; Death’s Final Sting is a thriller not to be missed.
Vanessa is such a likeable female protagonist. She is edgy, unique and unbelievably talented. Her work is her life and although we see her dip her toe into the dating pool, we aren’t bombarded with a constant need to meet the male gaze. It’s refreshing and ensures your full attention is on the case and killer.
I actually guessed wrong in regard to the killer…I was close, but just missed it! I really did enjoy trying to figure out who it could possibly be. Tracy has a great ability to keep you guessing throughout.
We are introduced to Detective Ru Hoshino in this second instalment and I felt he was a brilliant attribute to the series. With an air of mystery surrounding his past, you couldn’t help but want to delve deeper into his character. I found him to be enticing and I enjoyed his defiance and resilience.
I’m beyond excited to read the third and final instalment to this creepy crawly infested series.
As always, a HUGE thank you to Embla Books for sending me a pre-release copy of this book in return for my honest opinion and review. Thank you to Tracy Buchanan for trusting me with another book of yours to read !
December 18, 2024
Vanessa takes NY!
My search history is really weird after reading this book.
I love Vanessa’s character and I am sad I have to wait for the next book to come out!
My search history is really weird after reading this book.
I love Vanessa’s character and I am sad I have to wait for the next book to come out!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews